Thursday, June 30, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: The Well is Drying Up!!!
Mr. Armchair Speaks: The Well is Drying Up!!!: "It just hit me this morning as I was getting ready for work. My normal routine is to wake up, hop in the shower, towel off, hop back into..."
The Well is Drying Up!!!
It just hit me this morning as I was getting ready for work. My normal routine is to wake up, hop in the shower, towel off, hop back into bed, flip on Sportscenter, and lay in bed watching highlights of the previous day's sports action until I have about 10 minutes left before I have to leave for work to get dress, do my hair, eat breakfast, brush my teeth, water the back lawn, and take care of any other chores around the house I’ve been instructed to take care of by Mrs. Loveseat. I love me some Sportscenter. It's a stance that I've always maintains and fought for since I was a little kid. ESPN even had an ad campaign where they featured famous athletes and sports figures performing a daily routine while having Sportscenter on the tv in the background and a headline that reads, "Which Sportscenter do you watch?" Me, it's 11:00pm the night before and 7:00am the next morning. Nothing gets in the way of my morning Sportscenter!!
So as I went to turn on ESPN and watch my 7:00am Sportscenter, I suddenly became in a state of panic, as my morning Sportscenter was being pre-empted by live coverage of a Women’s World Cup Soccer match. No offense to women soccer players, but not my cup of coffee (No pun intended). I’m trying to remain calm, as I remember that this was the precise reason why they invented ESPN2; to show programming that can't be seen on ESPN because of a prior commitment to live coverage of an event (and to show all of ESPN's secondary programming). However, as I grabbed the remote and changed the channel, I had to violently cough to prevent the heart attack that I was about to have because when the channel came up, Women’s Tennis live from Wimbledon. Again, no offense. (**EDITOR'S NOTE - I had a really great, inappropriate sentence that I wanted to add here; but was advised against my better judgment not to use it. Ask me in private later and I will gladly tell you.**) In my stunned state of mind, it finally hit me; we are now entering the dead period of sports.
So as I went to turn on ESPN and watch my 7:00am Sportscenter, I suddenly became in a state of panic, as my morning Sportscenter was being pre-empted by live coverage of a Women’s World Cup Soccer match. No offense to women soccer players, but not my cup of coffee (No pun intended). I’m trying to remain calm, as I remember that this was the precise reason why they invented ESPN2; to show programming that can't be seen on ESPN because of a prior commitment to live coverage of an event (and to show all of ESPN's secondary programming). However, as I grabbed the remote and changed the channel, I had to violently cough to prevent the heart attack that I was about to have because when the channel came up, Women’s Tennis live from Wimbledon. Again, no offense. (**EDITOR'S NOTE - I had a really great, inappropriate sentence that I wanted to add here; but was advised against my better judgment not to use it. Ask me in private later and I will gladly tell you.**) In my stunned state of mind, it finally hit me; we are now entering the dead period of sports.
The dog days of summer are rapidly approaching, and for those of us who spent the better part of their lives consumed by sports, it means that we may actually have to get up out of our armchairs and get something accomplished or spent actually quality time with our significant others. For me, this is the time of year where I reluctantly give my seat cushion a break and let it take back its shape and form, all while it de-fumigates from the repeated tornado like winds of guac and cheddar cheese it’s been taking for the last 10 months. What makes this sports “offseason” even more particularly boring and uneventful is that the NFL and the NBA are both going to be in lockouts as of tomorrow (NBA’s CBA expires midnight tomorrow and the owners and league will most certainly lock out the players), so we aren’t even going to be privy to any trade or free agency rumormill excitement provided to us by the NBA, or any training camp position battles and mid-week preseason football from the NFL. Baseball will pick up the slack a little bit once the All-Star game passes and the trade winds start to pick wind, but unless the NFL ends its lockout (supposedly any day now!!) and starts training camps and preseason, we may not see any meaningful sports actions until early September, when college football starts up again and the baseball pennant and wildcard races pick up. Which leaves me asking one question: WHAT THE HELL I’M I SUPPOSE TO DO?
This is the time of year where us men will actually have to step away from the TV and spent a little time with our significant other and take care of any incomplete projects around the house. We may actually go outside and spend some time underneath this blinding ray of light in the sky called, The Sun. We also try to be on our best behavior as well, for we want to build up as much good will as we can, so that when the sports' world does decide to pick back up again and we revert back to spending time in our beloved armchair, we do so with as little of a guilty heart as possible. During our hiatus, we still may check into the sports' world every now and then for updates, for baseball is still being played and golf does have two majors left to be played. But as of right now, as evidence by me having to suffer through watching Women's World Cup Soccer or Women's Tennis in the morning, the well is drying up.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: NBA Draft Grades - WE COULD HAVE HAD IT AAALLLLLLL...
Mr. Armchair Speaks: NBA Draft Grades - WE COULD HAVE HAD IT AAALLLLLLL...: "The NBA Draft has come and gone and now it's time to dish out my grades. I thought there would be a lot more veteran player movement during..."
Monday, June 27, 2011
NBA Draft Grades - WE COULD HAVE HAD IT AAALLLLLLL!!!!!!!
The NBA Draft has come and gone and now it's time to dish out my grades. I thought there would be a lot more veteran player movement during the draft, but we saw the usual draft pick for draft pick trades, and the oh so famous draft pick for cash consideration trades. I'm sure some team will look forward to cashing in on that protected second round pick in the 2015 draft. Also, for the record, I went 9 out of 30 on the mocketity mock. Not bad for the craziness the NBA Draft always presents to us.
First grade I would to hand out is an A for ESPN, who actually picked a decent song this year (Adele, Rolling in the Deep) to come in and out of commercials from and to be the theme of the draft. Last year, it was some god awful Michael Buble song and about after the 6th pick, I was about ready to throw the remote through the TV and hit Stu Scott in his lazy eye. And I know Adele, Rolling in the Deep, is getting old and played out, but I really like that song and didn't get tired of it one bite. WE COULD HAVE HAD IT AAAAALLLLLLL!!!!!!!!! Now the grades.
Atlanta Hawks - C+
Round 1: None
Round 2: Keith Benson, C Oakland (48th pick)
Analysis: The Hawks didn't have a first round pick and in a draft this weak, there is very little you can do. The Hawks did what they could and drafted for need. They need a center in the worst way so that they can move Al Horford to his natural position of PF and move Josh Smith to SF. Keith Benson was the talk of the NCAA Tournament as a player to watch from a small school and could develop into a decent C if he can bulk up and learn to play inside the paint.
Boston Celtics - B+
Round 1: JaJuan Johnson, PF Purdue (27th pick via trade)
Round 2: E'Twaun Moore, SG Purdue (55th pick)
Analysis: Well, KG and Ray Allen aren't getting any younger, so why not start groom their replacements. And why not grab a couple of guys off of a team that was ranked #1 in the country in college basketball at one point during this last season and was also thought to be a National Championship caliber team. JaJuan Johnson is a good, long athletic PF like KG and E'Twaun Moore is a gritty SG like Ray Allen. This is a good start to the soon to be rebuilding process for the Boston Celtics.
Charlotte Bobcats - B-
Round 1: Bismack Biyombo, PF Congo (7th pick via trade)
Kemba Walker, PG UCONN (9th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: I'm not in love with this draft as everyone else is only because of the Michael Jordan factor. MJ, while being the greatest basketball player to ever live, is maybe the worst General Manager is all time (Kwane Brown, Adam Morrison; enough said). The Bobcats were participants in a three-team trade that netted them Corey Maggette from the Milwaukee Bucks and the 7th pick in the draft. Corey Maggette is unimpressive as a player now and days who also comes with a high salary. Bismack Biyombo, who they got with the 7th pick, apparently has a high motor which makes him effective on the glass and defense, but can he score? I do like the Kemba pick, as you can't teach being a winner.
Chicago Bulls - B-
Round 1: Nikola Mirotic, SF Serbia (23rd pick via trade)
Jimmy Butler, SF Marquette (30th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: I felt the Bulls really could have improved their team through this draft. Even though they finished first in the east, I still feel that they need more depth to become a better basketball team. A backup PG and SG should have been at the top of their wish list, but they opted for two SFs who are 6'10" and 6'8". Hopefully Butler develops into a big SG. Butler's personal story is an amazing one as he was referred to as the Michael Oher of the draft, so I wouldn't bet against his determination. Mirotic is a Euro who we probably won't see for a while.
Cleveland Cavaliers - A
Round 1: Kyrie Irving, PG Duke (1st pick)
Tristan Thompson, PF Texas (4th pick)
Round 2: Milan Macvan, PF Serbia (54th pick)
Analysis: I really like this draft. The Cavs got two players who can come in and have an immediate impact. Maybe I'm overrating this and I'm just glad that the Cavs didn't pick Jonas Valanciunas, who can't come over until at least a year or two, and do themselves and the Cavs fans a major disservice. While Derrick Williams may be more pro ready than Kyrie Irving, a PG of Irving's caliber are hard to find. Irving is the most talented and has the most potential of any player in this draft. I also feel that Tristan Thompson will be an underrated player and once he learns to score, he will be an effective PF.
Dallas Mavericks - B+
Round 1: None (via trade)
Round 2: None
Analysis: The Mavs didn't need much improving and are actually pretty well equip with young talent. The Mavs traded their first round pick to Portland as part of a three-team trade for shooting guard Rudy Fernandez; and the rich get richer. Fernandez is better than any player the Mavs would have drafted with the 26th and will have an immediate impact as a bench role player.
Denver Nuggets - B-
Round 1: Kenneth Faried, PF Morehead State (22nd pick)
Jordan Hamilton, SF Texas (26th pick via trade)
Round 2: Chukwudiebere Maduabum, PF Nigeria (56th pick via trade)
Analysis: They almost received an A grade from me just for trading for a guy named Chukwudiebere Maduadum. What a name!! I really hope this guy develops into a contributing player and the announcers actually have to say his name multiple times with such excitement. In all serious now, I love the Kenneth Faried pick. High motor, high energy, no nonsense, just wants to play. Every player needs to have this guys mentality. Getting Jordan Hamilton from the Mavs as part of a three-team trade was curious, as he will be stuck behind Danilo Galliari and Wilson Chandler at the SF position.
Detroit Pistons - A
Round 1: Brandon Knight, PG Kentucky (8th pick)
Round 2: Kyle Singler, SF Duke (33rd pick)
Vernon Macklin, PF Florida (52th pick)
Analysis: I actually really like this pick. I'm not sure about Brandon Knight as a player, but I love the philosophy behind the pick. It's a NFL Draft philosophy; draft the best player available and figure out the rest later. While the experts thought they needed a big man, in my opinion, Detroit needed a PG in the worst way. It so happened that they got one who could develop into a better PG than Kyrie Irving, who was taken at #1. Drafting Brando Knight allows the Pistons to move Rodney Stuckey to SG, his natural position. I also like the Singler pick in the second round. He's a gritty SF who can shoot the ball and stretch the floor coming off the bench.
Golden State Warriors - B
Round 1: Klay Thompson, SG Washington State (11th pick)
Round 2: Jeremy Tyler, PF Japan (39th pick via trade)
Charles Jenkins, PG Hofstra (44th pick)
Analysis: Warriors fans can start saying goodbye to Monta Ellis (although is they really want to get value, Steph Curry). Klay Thompson was the player they had targeted all along. He is a big SG who can shoot the lights out, which fits right into the style of offense that the Warriors run (or at least we think they will run under new coach Hand Down, Man Down). However, with Kawhi Leonard still available, I'm not sure if the Warriors will end up regretting not picking him. They could really use what he brings on the boards and on defense. The Warriors also got good value in the 2nd round with trading for Jeremy Tyler and drafting Charles Jenkins.
Houston Rockets - B-
Round 1: Marcus Morris, PF Kansas (14th pick)
Donatas Motiejunas, PF Lithuania (20th pick via trade)
Round 2: Chandler Parsons, SF Florida (38th pick)
Analysis: Sooner or later, the Rockets will need to stop running out onto the court undersized PF and C's. Marcus Morris is a talented player who can step out and shoot the ball from the outside, but he is hellbent on playing SF, and that may be a problem for both parties. The Rockets drafted him for hi size and rebounding, and all he may want to do is take outside elbow jumpers. Motiejunas is a 7'0" PF who will probably not come over right away, but I'm sure they are hoping that he can develop into a 7 foot PF, much like another one who happens to play for a team located in the same state.
Indiana Pacers - C+
Round 1: None (via trade)
Round 2: None (via trade)
Analysis: The Pacers decided to trade out of the draft, which wasn't the worst idea; but they traded a very good player they originally drafted in Kawhi Leonard, for a player in George Hill from the Spurs, who I'm not sure fills a need for them. The Pacers already have Darren Collinson running the point and I haven't seen enough of Hill to know whether or not he can play SG in the NBA. Another thing, the San Antonio Spurs are the New England Patriots of the NBA. If they want a player and are willing to give up a player of the caliber of George Hill to get him, it makes you wonder how good of a player Kawhi Leonard may end up becoming, and how good of a trade this really is for the Pacers.
Los Angeles Clippers - D
Round 1: None
Round 2: Trey Thompkins, PF Georgia (37th pick)
Travis Leslie, SG Georgia (47th pick)
Analysis: Just because you take the same draft strategy as the Boston Celtics (drafting two teammates) doesn't mean you will have the same success as the Boston Celtics. Thompkins and Leslie aren't as good as the duo of JaJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore, and also didn't play on a good of a team as them as well. Plus, the Clippers also get a low grade from me because they gave up what would become the 1st overall pick in a trade for Mo Williams. MO WILLIAMS!!! I'll go ahead and put good money on the potential that Kyrie Irving becomes a better overall NBA player than Mo Williams. Have fun living with this trade, Clipper fans.
Los Angeles Lakers - C
Round 1: None
Round 2: Darius Morris, PG Michigan (41st pick)
Andrew Goudelock, SG College of Charleston (46th pick)
Ater Majok, PF The Unknown (58th pick)
Analysis: Well, at least we can say the Lakers drafted three players who play position of need for them. Whether they were the best available players remains to be seen. Morris is a player who thinks he is better than he really is and probably should have stayed in school another year. He is a good passer, but can't shoot the ball worth a lick. Goudelock is a player who can supposely shoot the ball with deep range. If he proves he can, that may actually be a good pickup for the Lake Show. And really, Ater Majok?? Where do teams find players like him??
Memphis Grizzlies - B
Round 1: None
Round 2: Josh Selby, PG Kansas (49th pick)
Analysis: This is another case of an agent getting into the ear of a young, naive college basketball player and telling him that he will get drafted higher than he really will, provided him with false hopes, and then when draft night comes, harsh reality sets in. Now I've seen Selby play live, in person, and while he is talented, he should have stayed in school. He would have been a late lottery pick in next year's draft if he would have stayed in school. But if he develops into that player the agent keeps telling him he is, then this is steal of a pick.
Miami Heat - B+
Round 1: Norris Cole, PG Cleveland State (28th pick via trade)
Round 2: None
Analysis: This is a really nice pick for the Heatles. Norris Cole is very talented and if he would have went to a major college basketball program, he probably would have been drafted a lot higher. Cole will come in and start at PG for the Heat on day one, and that isn't a bad gig to have coming right out of college. I was an intern working at the State Capitol for a stippin. He gets to play along side LBJ and D-Wade. He should thrive playing along side LBJ, D-Wade, and the Ostrich. The rich get richer here.
Milwaukee Bucks - B-
Round 1: Tobias Harris, PF Tennessee (19th pick via trade)
Round 2: Jon Leuer, PF Wisconsin (40th pick)
Analysis: Milwaukee was part of the big three-team trade that netted them Stephen Jackson, Shaun Livingston, Beno Udrih, and swapping their 10th pick for the 19th pick. I'm not totally seeing how this trade improves the Bucks all that much. First, do you really think Stephen Jackson is going to play basketball in Milwaukee? He'll have to asset the quality of the gentlemen's clubs in the area first before he decided whether or not to show his face in Milwaukee. He's a head case that will cause turmoil in the locker room. However, they did draft for need by getting two solid PF's in Harris and Leuer. Harris is a polished PF and is a much better player than advertised.
Minnesota Timberwolves - A-
Round 1: Derrick Williams, PF Arizona (2nd pick)
Round 2: Malcolm Lee, PG UCLA (43rd pick via trade)
Targuy Ngomba, SF The Unknown (57th pick via trade)
Analysis: As much as I was anticipated the Timberwolves screwing up their draft and as much as I was ready to rip their GM David Kahn, I have to say that their draft was actually really good. Derrick Williams may end up being a better pro player than Kyrie Irving, and he will definitely have more of an immediate impact. But how fun would it have been if the Cavs took Derrick Williams with the 1st pick and forces the Timberwolves to have to decided between drafting Kyrie Irving or Enes Kanter? That seen in the war room would have been classic. I also really like their 2nd round pick of Malcolm Lee. Yes he is another PG, but he is one that can actually play. UCLA players are always better in the pros than in college.
New Jersey Nets - B
Round 1: MarShon Brooks, SG Providence (25th pick via trade)
Round 2: Bojan Bogdanovic, SF Bosnia (31st pick via trade)
Jordan Williams, C Maryland (36th pick)
Analysis: The Nets had a solid draft. Nothing special, just solid. Brooks is a combo guard who is a slasher but needs to improve his jump shot. There is definitely a place for him in the rotation, with Anthony Morrow as the starting SG and no real capable backup playing behind him. The Nets also needed to beef up their front line and Jordan Williams will definitely do that. The bigger issue for them is will their billionaire Russian owner be able to spend his money on free agents.
New Orleans Hornets - D
Round 1: None
Round 2: None
Analysis: The Hornets traded their 1st round pick in the draft during the season to Portland for Jerryd Bayless. They then spun Jerryd Bayless to the Toronto Raptors for Jarrett Jack. So in essence, they traded the 19th pick in this draft for Jarrett Jack. WOW!!! As much as the Hornets may want to think that Jarrett Jack (who is close friends with Chris Paul) will become the voice of reasoning and talk Chris Paul into staying in New Orleans, it's not going to happen. Their were much better players available at the 19th pick than what Jarrett Jack will ever be in the NBA.
New York Knicks - C
Round 1: Iman Shumpert, PG Georgia Tech (17th pick)
Round 2: Josh Harrellson, C Kentucky (45th pick via pick)
Analysis: There are two things that are guaranteed to happen during the NBA Draft every year. David Stern will butcher the foreign names, and the NY Knicks' fans will boo the hell out of their draft pick because its never the guy they want. This year was no different. Iman Shumpert is a big PG, but were is he going to play. He is already behind Chauncey Billups and Toney Douglas on the depth chart; and come two years for now, Chris Paul. They needed a big man in the worst way and Tobias Harris or Kenneth Faried would have been better picks.
Oklahoma City Thunder - B-
Round 1: Reggie Jackson, PG Boston College (24th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: This was a promise pick by the Thunder. Jackson didn't work out for any other team and refused to release any medical information to them. Apparently, the Thunder and the Heat both made promises to him, and that was good enough for him. He is a talented PG who can shoot the ball and is athletic. He will be a backup PG to Russell Westbrook, another long and athletic PG. But really, how can you grade a promise pick for a playoff team? It's like taking a multiple choice test when you know who are already going to receive a B grade no matter how good or bad you do on the test, so you just show up and fill in all the C bubbles.
Orlando Magic - B
Round 1: None
Round 2: Justin Harper, PF Richmond (32nd pick via trade)
DeAndre Liggins, SG Kentucky (53rd pick)
Analysis: The Magic have much, much, MUCH bigger things to worry about (the upcoming free agency of Dwight Howard) than the NBA Draft. But whenever you can get first round talent in the second round, it always bumps up your grade in my book. Harper is a solid shooting big man who is in the same mold as another PF on the Magic's roster, Ryan Anderson. DeAndre Liggins is a long SG who should also stick with the team, as Jason Richardson is likely going to be released.
Philadelphia 76ers - C-
Round 1: Nikola Vucevic, C USC (16th pick)
Round 2: LaVoy Allen, PF Temple (50th pick)
Analysis: I'm not sure what the 76ers were doing here. They just traded for Spencer Hawes last season and still have Marreese Speights, who is young and still developing. If they are truly trying to trade Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand, than drafting either Chris Singleton or Tobias Harris makes much more sense here, especially Singleton. Singleton fall right into their laps from the late lottery and they passed on him, which is the main reason for their low graded.
Phoenix Suns - B
Round 1: Markieff Morris, PF Kansas (13th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: Good pick here for the Suns after missing out of the PGs, namely Jimmermania. While Channing Frye may be their starting PF, Morris brings a different element to the position that Frye doesn't, being a banger. Frye is much more comfortable taking jump shots from the outside, while Morris lives in the paint. Morris is a solid rebounder who can on occasion step out and hit a jump shot. You may see a lot of lineups featuring both Frye and Morris.
Portland Trail Blazers - B-
Round 1: Nolan Smith, SG Duke (21st pick)
Round 2: Jon Diebler, SG Ohio State (51st pick)
Analysis: Like Golden State, does the drafting of two SG's spell the end for Brandon Roy in Portland? The pick of Nolan Smith was curious, as I thought for sure they would draft Kenneth Faried (drafted one pick later) to help sure up their frontline and rebounding. I know they traded Rudy Fernandez to the Mavs and Andre Miller to the Nuggets in that three-team trade that netted them back Raymond Felton, but they still have Wesley Matthews at shooting guard, who is still a quality player, and Elloit Williams who they spend another first round pick on. Nolan is pure scorer as a combo guard and Diebler has a near .50 percent shooting percentage from 3 point range.
Sacramento Kings - A
Round 1: Jimmer Fredette, PG BYU (10th pick via trade)
Round 2: Tyler Honeycutt, SF UCLA (35th pick)
Isiah Thomas, PG Washington (60th pick)
Analysis: JIMMERMANIA BABY!!!!!! Ok, three-team trade aside that brought back John Salmons from the Bucks and the swapping of picks from the Bobcats, the Kings had a great draft. Call me a homer, but I believe in Jimmer Fredette and believe he will be a quality NBA player. I have a fever, and the only prescription, is more Jimmer!!! I also really like the addition of Tyler Honeycutt. He is an extremely talented player with a high basketball IQ and has the UCLA factor working for him. I also like the Isiah Thomas pick. After watching him live every year kill the Cal Bears, the guy is nothing but clutch and heart.
San Antonio Spurs - B+
Round 1: Kawhi Leonard, SF San Diego State (15th pick via trade)
Cory Joseph, PG Texas (29th pick)
Round 2: Davis Bertans, SF Latvia (42nd pick via trade)
Adam Hanga, SG Hungary (59th pick)
Analysis: As I referred to them early, the San Antonio Spurs are the New England Patriots of the NBA Draft. They always fine good players when you less expect it, and they also aren't afraid to get a player they covet. The Spurs had a gaping hole at SF, targeted a player who fits their mold, and weren't afraid to trade a player they were high on to get him. Kawhi Leonard is a high motor, high energy player who plays with all heart. He will come right in and bang the glass along with Tim Duncan. Not sure about Cory Josephs, but like the Patriots, the Spurs aren't afraid of taking players out of slot. Bertans is a Euro who can really shoot the ball as well.
Toronto Raptors - D+
Round 1: Jonas Valanciunas, C Lithuania (5th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: Any surprise here that the Raptors drafted a Euro? The Raptors also committed my biggest pet peeve for the NBA Draft: drafting a Euro you isn't going to come play for your team immediately and has to stay in Europe because of buy-out issues. WHY, WHY, WHY!!! Valanciunas may be young (19 years old) and may end up being the best player of this draft, but the Raptors need someone who can help them immediately. With Jan Vesely and Brandon Knight still on the board and players who I think fill much bigger needs for them (Vesely plays SF and Knight PG), passing on them for Valanciunas is doing a major disservice to their fans.
Utah Jazz - A-
Round 1: Enes Kanter, C Turkey (3rd pick)
Alec Burks, SG Colorado (12th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: Hearts are broken, as the Jazz failed to get Jimmermania. OH WELL!!! They did have a nice however. I would have given the Jazz a solid A grade if they would have drafted Chris Singleton instead of Alec Burks with the 12th pick, as Singleton is a player who I feel fills a much bigger need for them at SF and was the best defender in the draft, but Burks is a good pick for them as Raja Bell is their starting SG and Burks should see minutes early. I also like them drafting Kanter over Brandon Knight, as it allows them to move Al Jefferson to the PF position, his natural position. The question is, with Kanter, Okur, Jefferson, Millsap, and Favors all on the team, is their a move in their near future?
Washington Wizards - A
Round 1: Jan Vesely, SF Czech Republic (6th pick)
Chris Singleton, SF Florida State (18th pick)
Round 2: Shelvin Mack, SG Butler (34th pick)
Analysis: The Wizards probably had the best draft of the night. Vesely is a high flying Euro who fills a much needed position for the Wizards at SF. And who doesn't like a player who calls out Blake Griffin, challenges him to next year's Slam Dunk Contest, and then refers to him and the American Jan Vesely. Plus, did anyone else see his girlfriend? Winner in my book. And as you can tell throughout this post, I'm very high on Singleton as a player and feel he should have went higher than the 18th pick, so I think the Wizards got a steal here. Shelvin Mack proved in this years NCAA Tournament that he is, in my best Gus Johnson voice, "COLD BLOODED!!!!!"
Mr. Armchair Speaking.
First grade I would to hand out is an A for ESPN, who actually picked a decent song this year (Adele, Rolling in the Deep) to come in and out of commercials from and to be the theme of the draft. Last year, it was some god awful Michael Buble song and about after the 6th pick, I was about ready to throw the remote through the TV and hit Stu Scott in his lazy eye. And I know Adele, Rolling in the Deep, is getting old and played out, but I really like that song and didn't get tired of it one bite. WE COULD HAVE HAD IT AAAAALLLLLLL!!!!!!!!! Now the grades.
Atlanta Hawks - C+
Round 1: None
Round 2: Keith Benson, C Oakland (48th pick)
Analysis: The Hawks didn't have a first round pick and in a draft this weak, there is very little you can do. The Hawks did what they could and drafted for need. They need a center in the worst way so that they can move Al Horford to his natural position of PF and move Josh Smith to SF. Keith Benson was the talk of the NCAA Tournament as a player to watch from a small school and could develop into a decent C if he can bulk up and learn to play inside the paint.
Boston Celtics - B+
Round 1: JaJuan Johnson, PF Purdue (27th pick via trade)
Round 2: E'Twaun Moore, SG Purdue (55th pick)
Analysis: Well, KG and Ray Allen aren't getting any younger, so why not start groom their replacements. And why not grab a couple of guys off of a team that was ranked #1 in the country in college basketball at one point during this last season and was also thought to be a National Championship caliber team. JaJuan Johnson is a good, long athletic PF like KG and E'Twaun Moore is a gritty SG like Ray Allen. This is a good start to the soon to be rebuilding process for the Boston Celtics.
Charlotte Bobcats - B-
Round 1: Bismack Biyombo, PF Congo (7th pick via trade)
Kemba Walker, PG UCONN (9th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: I'm not in love with this draft as everyone else is only because of the Michael Jordan factor. MJ, while being the greatest basketball player to ever live, is maybe the worst General Manager is all time (Kwane Brown, Adam Morrison; enough said). The Bobcats were participants in a three-team trade that netted them Corey Maggette from the Milwaukee Bucks and the 7th pick in the draft. Corey Maggette is unimpressive as a player now and days who also comes with a high salary. Bismack Biyombo, who they got with the 7th pick, apparently has a high motor which makes him effective on the glass and defense, but can he score? I do like the Kemba pick, as you can't teach being a winner.
Chicago Bulls - B-
Round 1: Nikola Mirotic, SF Serbia (23rd pick via trade)
Jimmy Butler, SF Marquette (30th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: I felt the Bulls really could have improved their team through this draft. Even though they finished first in the east, I still feel that they need more depth to become a better basketball team. A backup PG and SG should have been at the top of their wish list, but they opted for two SFs who are 6'10" and 6'8". Hopefully Butler develops into a big SG. Butler's personal story is an amazing one as he was referred to as the Michael Oher of the draft, so I wouldn't bet against his determination. Mirotic is a Euro who we probably won't see for a while.
Cleveland Cavaliers - A
Round 1: Kyrie Irving, PG Duke (1st pick)
Tristan Thompson, PF Texas (4th pick)
Round 2: Milan Macvan, PF Serbia (54th pick)
Analysis: I really like this draft. The Cavs got two players who can come in and have an immediate impact. Maybe I'm overrating this and I'm just glad that the Cavs didn't pick Jonas Valanciunas, who can't come over until at least a year or two, and do themselves and the Cavs fans a major disservice. While Derrick Williams may be more pro ready than Kyrie Irving, a PG of Irving's caliber are hard to find. Irving is the most talented and has the most potential of any player in this draft. I also feel that Tristan Thompson will be an underrated player and once he learns to score, he will be an effective PF.
Dallas Mavericks - B+
Round 1: None (via trade)
Round 2: None
Analysis: The Mavs didn't need much improving and are actually pretty well equip with young talent. The Mavs traded their first round pick to Portland as part of a three-team trade for shooting guard Rudy Fernandez; and the rich get richer. Fernandez is better than any player the Mavs would have drafted with the 26th and will have an immediate impact as a bench role player.
Denver Nuggets - B-
Round 1: Kenneth Faried, PF Morehead State (22nd pick)
Jordan Hamilton, SF Texas (26th pick via trade)
Round 2: Chukwudiebere Maduabum, PF Nigeria (56th pick via trade)
Analysis: They almost received an A grade from me just for trading for a guy named Chukwudiebere Maduadum. What a name!! I really hope this guy develops into a contributing player and the announcers actually have to say his name multiple times with such excitement. In all serious now, I love the Kenneth Faried pick. High motor, high energy, no nonsense, just wants to play. Every player needs to have this guys mentality. Getting Jordan Hamilton from the Mavs as part of a three-team trade was curious, as he will be stuck behind Danilo Galliari and Wilson Chandler at the SF position.
Detroit Pistons - A
Round 1: Brandon Knight, PG Kentucky (8th pick)
Round 2: Kyle Singler, SF Duke (33rd pick)
Vernon Macklin, PF Florida (52th pick)
Analysis: I actually really like this pick. I'm not sure about Brandon Knight as a player, but I love the philosophy behind the pick. It's a NFL Draft philosophy; draft the best player available and figure out the rest later. While the experts thought they needed a big man, in my opinion, Detroit needed a PG in the worst way. It so happened that they got one who could develop into a better PG than Kyrie Irving, who was taken at #1. Drafting Brando Knight allows the Pistons to move Rodney Stuckey to SG, his natural position. I also like the Singler pick in the second round. He's a gritty SF who can shoot the ball and stretch the floor coming off the bench.
Golden State Warriors - B
Round 1: Klay Thompson, SG Washington State (11th pick)
Round 2: Jeremy Tyler, PF Japan (39th pick via trade)
Charles Jenkins, PG Hofstra (44th pick)
Analysis: Warriors fans can start saying goodbye to Monta Ellis (although is they really want to get value, Steph Curry). Klay Thompson was the player they had targeted all along. He is a big SG who can shoot the lights out, which fits right into the style of offense that the Warriors run (or at least we think they will run under new coach Hand Down, Man Down). However, with Kawhi Leonard still available, I'm not sure if the Warriors will end up regretting not picking him. They could really use what he brings on the boards and on defense. The Warriors also got good value in the 2nd round with trading for Jeremy Tyler and drafting Charles Jenkins.
Houston Rockets - B-
Round 1: Marcus Morris, PF Kansas (14th pick)
Donatas Motiejunas, PF Lithuania (20th pick via trade)
Round 2: Chandler Parsons, SF Florida (38th pick)
Analysis: Sooner or later, the Rockets will need to stop running out onto the court undersized PF and C's. Marcus Morris is a talented player who can step out and shoot the ball from the outside, but he is hellbent on playing SF, and that may be a problem for both parties. The Rockets drafted him for hi size and rebounding, and all he may want to do is take outside elbow jumpers. Motiejunas is a 7'0" PF who will probably not come over right away, but I'm sure they are hoping that he can develop into a 7 foot PF, much like another one who happens to play for a team located in the same state.
Indiana Pacers - C+
Round 1: None (via trade)
Round 2: None (via trade)
Analysis: The Pacers decided to trade out of the draft, which wasn't the worst idea; but they traded a very good player they originally drafted in Kawhi Leonard, for a player in George Hill from the Spurs, who I'm not sure fills a need for them. The Pacers already have Darren Collinson running the point and I haven't seen enough of Hill to know whether or not he can play SG in the NBA. Another thing, the San Antonio Spurs are the New England Patriots of the NBA. If they want a player and are willing to give up a player of the caliber of George Hill to get him, it makes you wonder how good of a player Kawhi Leonard may end up becoming, and how good of a trade this really is for the Pacers.
Los Angeles Clippers - D
Round 1: None
Round 2: Trey Thompkins, PF Georgia (37th pick)
Travis Leslie, SG Georgia (47th pick)
Analysis: Just because you take the same draft strategy as the Boston Celtics (drafting two teammates) doesn't mean you will have the same success as the Boston Celtics. Thompkins and Leslie aren't as good as the duo of JaJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore, and also didn't play on a good of a team as them as well. Plus, the Clippers also get a low grade from me because they gave up what would become the 1st overall pick in a trade for Mo Williams. MO WILLIAMS!!! I'll go ahead and put good money on the potential that Kyrie Irving becomes a better overall NBA player than Mo Williams. Have fun living with this trade, Clipper fans.
Los Angeles Lakers - C
Round 1: None
Round 2: Darius Morris, PG Michigan (41st pick)
Andrew Goudelock, SG College of Charleston (46th pick)
Ater Majok, PF The Unknown (58th pick)
Analysis: Well, at least we can say the Lakers drafted three players who play position of need for them. Whether they were the best available players remains to be seen. Morris is a player who thinks he is better than he really is and probably should have stayed in school another year. He is a good passer, but can't shoot the ball worth a lick. Goudelock is a player who can supposely shoot the ball with deep range. If he proves he can, that may actually be a good pickup for the Lake Show. And really, Ater Majok?? Where do teams find players like him??
Memphis Grizzlies - B
Round 1: None
Round 2: Josh Selby, PG Kansas (49th pick)
Analysis: This is another case of an agent getting into the ear of a young, naive college basketball player and telling him that he will get drafted higher than he really will, provided him with false hopes, and then when draft night comes, harsh reality sets in. Now I've seen Selby play live, in person, and while he is talented, he should have stayed in school. He would have been a late lottery pick in next year's draft if he would have stayed in school. But if he develops into that player the agent keeps telling him he is, then this is steal of a pick.
Miami Heat - B+
Round 1: Norris Cole, PG Cleveland State (28th pick via trade)
Round 2: None
Analysis: This is a really nice pick for the Heatles. Norris Cole is very talented and if he would have went to a major college basketball program, he probably would have been drafted a lot higher. Cole will come in and start at PG for the Heat on day one, and that isn't a bad gig to have coming right out of college. I was an intern working at the State Capitol for a stippin. He gets to play along side LBJ and D-Wade. He should thrive playing along side LBJ, D-Wade, and the Ostrich. The rich get richer here.
Milwaukee Bucks - B-
Round 1: Tobias Harris, PF Tennessee (19th pick via trade)
Round 2: Jon Leuer, PF Wisconsin (40th pick)
Analysis: Milwaukee was part of the big three-team trade that netted them Stephen Jackson, Shaun Livingston, Beno Udrih, and swapping their 10th pick for the 19th pick. I'm not totally seeing how this trade improves the Bucks all that much. First, do you really think Stephen Jackson is going to play basketball in Milwaukee? He'll have to asset the quality of the gentlemen's clubs in the area first before he decided whether or not to show his face in Milwaukee. He's a head case that will cause turmoil in the locker room. However, they did draft for need by getting two solid PF's in Harris and Leuer. Harris is a polished PF and is a much better player than advertised.
Minnesota Timberwolves - A-
Round 1: Derrick Williams, PF Arizona (2nd pick)
Round 2: Malcolm Lee, PG UCLA (43rd pick via trade)
Targuy Ngomba, SF The Unknown (57th pick via trade)
Analysis: As much as I was anticipated the Timberwolves screwing up their draft and as much as I was ready to rip their GM David Kahn, I have to say that their draft was actually really good. Derrick Williams may end up being a better pro player than Kyrie Irving, and he will definitely have more of an immediate impact. But how fun would it have been if the Cavs took Derrick Williams with the 1st pick and forces the Timberwolves to have to decided between drafting Kyrie Irving or Enes Kanter? That seen in the war room would have been classic. I also really like their 2nd round pick of Malcolm Lee. Yes he is another PG, but he is one that can actually play. UCLA players are always better in the pros than in college.
New Jersey Nets - B
Round 1: MarShon Brooks, SG Providence (25th pick via trade)
Round 2: Bojan Bogdanovic, SF Bosnia (31st pick via trade)
Jordan Williams, C Maryland (36th pick)
Analysis: The Nets had a solid draft. Nothing special, just solid. Brooks is a combo guard who is a slasher but needs to improve his jump shot. There is definitely a place for him in the rotation, with Anthony Morrow as the starting SG and no real capable backup playing behind him. The Nets also needed to beef up their front line and Jordan Williams will definitely do that. The bigger issue for them is will their billionaire Russian owner be able to spend his money on free agents.
New Orleans Hornets - D
Round 1: None
Round 2: None
Analysis: The Hornets traded their 1st round pick in the draft during the season to Portland for Jerryd Bayless. They then spun Jerryd Bayless to the Toronto Raptors for Jarrett Jack. So in essence, they traded the 19th pick in this draft for Jarrett Jack. WOW!!! As much as the Hornets may want to think that Jarrett Jack (who is close friends with Chris Paul) will become the voice of reasoning and talk Chris Paul into staying in New Orleans, it's not going to happen. Their were much better players available at the 19th pick than what Jarrett Jack will ever be in the NBA.
New York Knicks - C
Round 1: Iman Shumpert, PG Georgia Tech (17th pick)
Round 2: Josh Harrellson, C Kentucky (45th pick via pick)
Analysis: There are two things that are guaranteed to happen during the NBA Draft every year. David Stern will butcher the foreign names, and the NY Knicks' fans will boo the hell out of their draft pick because its never the guy they want. This year was no different. Iman Shumpert is a big PG, but were is he going to play. He is already behind Chauncey Billups and Toney Douglas on the depth chart; and come two years for now, Chris Paul. They needed a big man in the worst way and Tobias Harris or Kenneth Faried would have been better picks.
Oklahoma City Thunder - B-
Round 1: Reggie Jackson, PG Boston College (24th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: This was a promise pick by the Thunder. Jackson didn't work out for any other team and refused to release any medical information to them. Apparently, the Thunder and the Heat both made promises to him, and that was good enough for him. He is a talented PG who can shoot the ball and is athletic. He will be a backup PG to Russell Westbrook, another long and athletic PG. But really, how can you grade a promise pick for a playoff team? It's like taking a multiple choice test when you know who are already going to receive a B grade no matter how good or bad you do on the test, so you just show up and fill in all the C bubbles.
Orlando Magic - B
Round 1: None
Round 2: Justin Harper, PF Richmond (32nd pick via trade)
DeAndre Liggins, SG Kentucky (53rd pick)
Analysis: The Magic have much, much, MUCH bigger things to worry about (the upcoming free agency of Dwight Howard) than the NBA Draft. But whenever you can get first round talent in the second round, it always bumps up your grade in my book. Harper is a solid shooting big man who is in the same mold as another PF on the Magic's roster, Ryan Anderson. DeAndre Liggins is a long SG who should also stick with the team, as Jason Richardson is likely going to be released.
Philadelphia 76ers - C-
Round 1: Nikola Vucevic, C USC (16th pick)
Round 2: LaVoy Allen, PF Temple (50th pick)
Analysis: I'm not sure what the 76ers were doing here. They just traded for Spencer Hawes last season and still have Marreese Speights, who is young and still developing. If they are truly trying to trade Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand, than drafting either Chris Singleton or Tobias Harris makes much more sense here, especially Singleton. Singleton fall right into their laps from the late lottery and they passed on him, which is the main reason for their low graded.
Phoenix Suns - B
Round 1: Markieff Morris, PF Kansas (13th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: Good pick here for the Suns after missing out of the PGs, namely Jimmermania. While Channing Frye may be their starting PF, Morris brings a different element to the position that Frye doesn't, being a banger. Frye is much more comfortable taking jump shots from the outside, while Morris lives in the paint. Morris is a solid rebounder who can on occasion step out and hit a jump shot. You may see a lot of lineups featuring both Frye and Morris.
Portland Trail Blazers - B-
Round 1: Nolan Smith, SG Duke (21st pick)
Round 2: Jon Diebler, SG Ohio State (51st pick)
Analysis: Like Golden State, does the drafting of two SG's spell the end for Brandon Roy in Portland? The pick of Nolan Smith was curious, as I thought for sure they would draft Kenneth Faried (drafted one pick later) to help sure up their frontline and rebounding. I know they traded Rudy Fernandez to the Mavs and Andre Miller to the Nuggets in that three-team trade that netted them back Raymond Felton, but they still have Wesley Matthews at shooting guard, who is still a quality player, and Elloit Williams who they spend another first round pick on. Nolan is pure scorer as a combo guard and Diebler has a near .50 percent shooting percentage from 3 point range.
Sacramento Kings - A
Round 1: Jimmer Fredette, PG BYU (10th pick via trade)
Round 2: Tyler Honeycutt, SF UCLA (35th pick)
Isiah Thomas, PG Washington (60th pick)
Analysis: JIMMERMANIA BABY!!!!!! Ok, three-team trade aside that brought back John Salmons from the Bucks and the swapping of picks from the Bobcats, the Kings had a great draft. Call me a homer, but I believe in Jimmer Fredette and believe he will be a quality NBA player. I have a fever, and the only prescription, is more Jimmer!!! I also really like the addition of Tyler Honeycutt. He is an extremely talented player with a high basketball IQ and has the UCLA factor working for him. I also like the Isiah Thomas pick. After watching him live every year kill the Cal Bears, the guy is nothing but clutch and heart.
San Antonio Spurs - B+
Round 1: Kawhi Leonard, SF San Diego State (15th pick via trade)
Cory Joseph, PG Texas (29th pick)
Round 2: Davis Bertans, SF Latvia (42nd pick via trade)
Adam Hanga, SG Hungary (59th pick)
Analysis: As I referred to them early, the San Antonio Spurs are the New England Patriots of the NBA Draft. They always fine good players when you less expect it, and they also aren't afraid to get a player they covet. The Spurs had a gaping hole at SF, targeted a player who fits their mold, and weren't afraid to trade a player they were high on to get him. Kawhi Leonard is a high motor, high energy player who plays with all heart. He will come right in and bang the glass along with Tim Duncan. Not sure about Cory Josephs, but like the Patriots, the Spurs aren't afraid of taking players out of slot. Bertans is a Euro who can really shoot the ball as well.
Toronto Raptors - D+
Round 1: Jonas Valanciunas, C Lithuania (5th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: Any surprise here that the Raptors drafted a Euro? The Raptors also committed my biggest pet peeve for the NBA Draft: drafting a Euro you isn't going to come play for your team immediately and has to stay in Europe because of buy-out issues. WHY, WHY, WHY!!! Valanciunas may be young (19 years old) and may end up being the best player of this draft, but the Raptors need someone who can help them immediately. With Jan Vesely and Brandon Knight still on the board and players who I think fill much bigger needs for them (Vesely plays SF and Knight PG), passing on them for Valanciunas is doing a major disservice to their fans.
Utah Jazz - A-
Round 1: Enes Kanter, C Turkey (3rd pick)
Alec Burks, SG Colorado (12th pick)
Round 2: None
Analysis: Hearts are broken, as the Jazz failed to get Jimmermania. OH WELL!!! They did have a nice however. I would have given the Jazz a solid A grade if they would have drafted Chris Singleton instead of Alec Burks with the 12th pick, as Singleton is a player who I feel fills a much bigger need for them at SF and was the best defender in the draft, but Burks is a good pick for them as Raja Bell is their starting SG and Burks should see minutes early. I also like them drafting Kanter over Brandon Knight, as it allows them to move Al Jefferson to the PF position, his natural position. The question is, with Kanter, Okur, Jefferson, Millsap, and Favors all on the team, is their a move in their near future?
Washington Wizards - A
Round 1: Jan Vesely, SF Czech Republic (6th pick)
Chris Singleton, SF Florida State (18th pick)
Round 2: Shelvin Mack, SG Butler (34th pick)
Analysis: The Wizards probably had the best draft of the night. Vesely is a high flying Euro who fills a much needed position for the Wizards at SF. And who doesn't like a player who calls out Blake Griffin, challenges him to next year's Slam Dunk Contest, and then refers to him and the American Jan Vesely. Plus, did anyone else see his girlfriend? Winner in my book. And as you can tell throughout this post, I'm very high on Singleton as a player and feel he should have went higher than the 18th pick, so I think the Wizards got a steal here. Shelvin Mack proved in this years NCAA Tournament that he is, in my best Gus Johnson voice, "COLD BLOODED!!!!!"
Mr. Armchair Speaking.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: The Mocketity Mock of All Mock Drafts
Mr. Armchair Speaks: The Mocketity Mock of All Mock Drafts: "It’s well documented that this year’s NBA Draft Class is among the worst in NBA History. The draft classes of Brad Daugherty (1986), Derri..."
The Mocketity Mock of All Mock Drafts
It’s well documented that this year’s NBA Draft Class is among the worst in NBA History. The draft classes of Brad Daugherty (1986), Derrick Coleman (1990), and Kenyon Martin (2000) all think this draft class sucks. But while there may only be about 2-3 all-star caliber players in this draft class, there are some players that should develop into solid contributing NBA players. But even if guys like Perry Jones from Baylor, Harrison Barnes from UNC, and Jared Sullinger from Ohio State hadn’t returned to school and decided to enter the draft, this class would still be considered one of the worst classes in the modern era. We all have our theories as to why this is so (can anyone say one-and-done rule!!); the draft is still the most cost efficient and logical way for teams to improve.
With a class this bad and teams having to offer guaranteed contracts to first round picks, I would anticipate a lot of movement and trades to happen during this draft. Teams are desperately trying to spin their first round pick into a contributing, veteran player; but teams are finding it difficult because no one wants any of these college kids on their team. Another aspect to consider is the expiring CBA (set to expire June 30th) and the pending lockout of the players by the owners, which is all but inevitable. If the lockout is anything like it was in 1998, and we have a shorten NBA season, front offices will be asked to put together their team in a hurry, with limited training camp and preseason. If we are going to see the same fate this upcoming season as in 1998, then I think front offices will do as much preparation as possible before the CBA expires to get their team ready and set, so that when basketball does resume, they are not scrambling to fill roster spots with D-leaguers, or overpay for washed up veterans. So in hindsight, this draft, while littered with mediocre talent, could become one of the more important drafts in recent history.
So without further ado, presented by yours truly, the mocketity mock of all mock drafts.
1. Cleveland Cavilers – Kyrie Irving, PG Duke
Analysis: All but confirmed that this pick will happen, Irving is the best and most talented player in the draft. The Cavs get a solid point guard that they can build around and help lead this team back to prosperity. But wouldn't it be something if they took Derrick Wiliams??
2. Minnesota Timberwolves – Derrick Williams, SF-PF Arizona
Analysis: Not as talented as Irving, but may have a more immediate impact in the league. He can play both the small and the power forward positions. This pick is supposedly up for trade and could provide major fireworks. They can also draft Enes Kanter here and shock the world.
3. Utah Jazz – Brandon Knight, PG Kentucky
Analysis: It’s either Brandon Knight or Enes Kanter. The Jazz don’t love any prospects really, but after trading Deron Williams mid-season, I see Knight getting drafted here. Knight is a big PG and can play behind Devin Harris until he is ready to assume the duties.
*UPDATE* Enes Kanter, C Turkey
Analysis: They must feel that they can get a quality PG with their #12 pick.
4. Cleveland Cavilers – Enes Kanter, C Turkey
Analysis: Cleveland may be looking to move this pick, but if they stay here, they take Kanter to go along with Irving. Kanter is the best center in the draft and will compliment Irving nicely. Valanciunas is also high on their board, but not coming over next year won’t fly with Cavs’ fans.
*UPDATE* Jonas Valanciunas, C Lithuania
Analysis: WHY, WHY, WHY??? I don’t know. A team so bad wants to wait a year or longer.
5. Toronto Raptors – Jan Vesely, SF Czech Republic
Analysis: They want Brandon Knight bad. If Knight is gone, they take Vesely here. Toronto’s GM likes drafting tissue soft Euro players. Toronto fans will either erupt with anger of this pick, or shrug their shoulders as its business as usual. Kemba Walker could land here as well.
*UPDATE* Brandon Knight, PG Kentucky
Analysis: The player they wanted all along falls to them.
6. Washington Wizards – Kawhi Leonard, SF San Diego State
Analysis: Kawhi may be a hidden jewel in this draft. He has a huge wing span and plays with a lot of heart and toughness, two attributes that you can’t coach and love having on your team. Also watch for Klay Thompson to go here, as shooting guard Nick Young is a free agent.
*UPDATE* Jan Vesely, SF Czech Republic
Analyst: He is a better athlete than Kawhi Leonard and can run the floor better with John Wall.
7. Sacramento Kings – Kemba Walker, PG UCONN
Analysis: Many, many options with this pick. If they stay here, Sacramento is in desperate need of leadership and Kemba is a natural born leader. He can get to the rack with ease and hit a jumper on command. Kawhi Leonard could also land here if he falls. Sleeper pick: Jimmer!!!
*UPDATE* Kawhi Leonard, SF San Diego State
Analysis: As much as I want to leave Kemba here, the Kings can’t pass on Kawhi’s potential.
*UPDATE* Charlotte Bobcats - Bismack Biyombo, PF Spain
Analysis: MJ likes to draft risk/reward players i.e. Adam Morrison and Kwane Brown.
8. Detroit Pistons – Bismack Biyombo, PF Spain
Analysis: Detroit supposedly wants Kemba in the worst way so that they can move Rodney Stuckey to the 2-guard. If Kemba is gone, Biyombo is their guy. A Ben Wallace comparison, he would add additional size to the front line and can play next to last year’s rookie Greg Monroe.
*UPDATE* Kemba Walker, PG UCONN
Analysis: The Pistons get there point guard and can now move Rodney Stuckey to the 2-guard.
*UPDATE* Tristan Thompson, PF Texas
Analysis: Size rules and questions about Kemba's health starts to scare off teams.
9. Charlotte Bobcats – Tristan Thompson, PF Texas
Analysis: Whoever they pick, it will be MJ making the call. Charlotte is also on the Kemba bandwagon, but Kemba won’t get pass Detroit. Thompson is a solid big man who they can play at the 4 and allow them to move Boris Diaw to the 3. Biyombo can also go here too.
*UPDATE* Kawhi Leonard, SF San Diego State
Analysis: Adding Biyombo and Leonard will bloster their weak front line.
10. Milwaukee Bucks – Klay Thompson, SG Washington State
Analysis: Thompson is the best shooting guard in the draft and would complement Brandon Jennings nicely. He also could be the best shooter in the draft and would help stretch the floor for the Bucks, who haven’t had a good shooter on their team since Michael Redd was healthy.
*UPDATE* Sacramento Kings - Jimmer Fredette, PG BYU
Analysis: The owners get there guy and the front office saves face by drafting Jimmer, but not too high.
11. Golden State Warriors – Alec Burks, SG Colorado
Analysis: The Warriors can go in several directions. They really want Klay Thompson, but if gone, can add to the front line with players like Jonas Valanciunas, Marcus Morris, or Biyombo. They add Burks, who is a slashing 2 guard and allows them to explore trades for Monta Ellis.
*UPDATE* Bismack Biyombo, PF Spain
Analysis: Warrior draft yet another PF who can hopefully develop and provide some interior D.
*UPDATE* Klay Thompson, SG Washington State
Analysis: The 2-guard with great size and shooting ability they coveted from the beginning.
12. Utah Jazz – Chris Singleton, SF Florida State
Analysis: Andrei Kirilenko is a free agent (but still has the greatest contract with his wife!!) and while everyone in Utah may want Jimmer Jammer, Singleton is the best pick here. He is a solid defense and could take over the role left behind by Kirilenko as that lock-down defender.
*UPDATE* Jimmer Fredette, PG BYU
Analysis: Provo goes bananas!!!!
*UPDATE* Kemba Walker, PG UCONN
Analysis: Heart are broken across Utah as Jimmer is gone, but the front office gets their guy.
13. Phoenix Suns – Jimmer Fredette, PG BYU
Analysis: This is the perfect landing spot for Jimmer. He is the exact same type of player that Steve Nash was coming out of Santa Clara. Jimmer could be tutored by Nash on how to be an effective PG in the NBA while still being an efficient scorer. Plus, have you been to Scottsdale?
*UPDATE* Chris Singleton, SF Florida State
Analysis: The Suns plan on waiving Vince Carter, leaving only Jared Dudley as their only SF.
14. Houston Rockets – Jonas Valanciunas, C Lithuania
Analysis: This is the basement for Valanciunas. While he probably won’t come over to the States this upcoming season, causing him to fall this far, Houston is for whatever reason committed to giving Yao one last chance, so they can sit and wait for Valanciunas.
*UPDATE* Nikola Vucevic, C USC
Analysis: The Rockets can’t keep running out Chuck Hayes and a broken foot to play Center.
15. Indiana Pacers – Tobias Harris, PF Tennessee
Analysis: Indiana is praying that Jimmer falls to them. I don’t see that happening as there are enough teams that want him ahead of Indiana. So when in doubt, draft a big man. Harris is a polished big man who could complement to rough style of Tyler Hansbourgh.
*UPDATE* Markieff Morris, PF Kansas
Analysis: They apparently like him better than his brother.
16. Philadelphia 76ers – Marcus Morris, PF Kansas
Analysis: The Sixers are trying desperately to get out of the horrible contract that is Elton Brand. Morris would be a good fit, as he has a nice outside jumper to go along with his rebounding skills. Jordan Hamilton could also go here, as they also try to trade Andre Iguodala.
17. New York Knicks – Nikola Vucevic, C USC
Analysis: Supposedly they are trying to move up for Jimmer, as it is what the owner wants to do. If their basketball people have any say, they would draft Vucevic. He’s the last 5 on the board. The Knicks have no true 5 as Ronny Turiaf or Amare share the position currently.
*UPDATE* Alec Burks, SG Colorado
Analysis: The Knicks need players who can shoot and stretch the floor.
18. Washington Wizards – Markieff Morris, PF Kansas
Analysis: Unlike his twin brother, Markieff is more of a banger in the paint. He would be a nice fit with JaVale McGee and if they do indeed draft Kawhi Leonard at #6, Washington would be a force on the boards from all front line positions. Marshon Brooks is also a possibility here.
*UPDATE* Tobias Harris, PF Tennessee
Analysis: The Wizards continue to add to their front line.
19. Charlotte Bobcats – Jordan Hamilton, SF Texas
Analysis: They traded Gerald Wallace mid-season and we all know what you are going to get from Stephen Jackson, so SF is a need position. Texas Forever lives in Charlotte if they do follow up their Tristan Thompson selection with Hamilton. They can grab a PG here as well.
20. Minnesota Timberwolves – Donatas Montiejunas, PF Lithuania
Analysis: The Timberwolves are always good for drafting a Euro in a draft. Montiejunas offers great size and if he can’t come over this year, it wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world. Markieff Morris could also go here as well if he falls.
21. Portland Trail blazers – Kenneth Faried, PF Morehead State
Analysis: Other than Irving and Williams go 1-2, this has been the most consistent pick in all my rough mock drafts. While Portland already has LaMarcus Aldridge, they have no solid backup for him. Faried is a monster rebounder, something the Trail Blazers need on their front line.
22. Denver Nuggets – Iman Shumpert, PG Georgia Tech
Analysis – Raymond Felton is not happy being a backup to Ty Lawson and Lawson is clearly going to be the starter next season. If, or when, the Nuggets trade Felton, they will need a backup PG and Shumpert is climbing up draft boards. Shumpert could go as high as the Knicks.
23. Houston Rockets – Tyler Honeycutt, SF UCLA
Analysis – The Rockets traded Shane Battier mid-season and need to fill the void at SF. Honeycutt is an athlete small forward who is a better player than he has shown while at UCLA. Shumpert or Reggie Jackson could also go here to provide the backup PG they need as well.
24. Oklahoma City Thunder – Kyle Singler, SF Duke
Analysis – All signs point to this being a promise pick, assuming they don’t “sell” this pick or trade for a veteran. The Thunder are in need of a quality backup for Durant. Singler can be a contributor off the bench and provide some outside shooting. They can also pick up a big man.
25. Boston Celtics – Jon Leuer, PF Wisconsin
Analysis – It was pretty obvious that Boston missed the presence of Kendrick Perkins in the middle. Leuer is a beast in the middle who could maybe convert to the Center position and fill the void left by the Perkins trade and Krstic signing overseas. A combo guard is also a need.
*UPDATE* Marshon Brooks, SG Providence
Analysis: Ray Allen can’t play forever. Stay local with a combo guard.
26. Dallas Mavericks – Nikola Mirotic, SF Serbia
Analysis – The Mavericks are in no immediate need for help from a first round draft pick. They are a prime candidate to “sell” eerrrr “trade” this pick. If they do keep it, I see them taking a Euro that they can keep overseas for a while and let him develop.
27. New Jersey Nets – Jeremy Tyler, PF Japan
Analysis – The Nets are going to need a PF now that Kris Humphries will soon fall victim to the curse that is becoming a Kardashian. As evidence, see Mr. Lamar Kardashian. Brook Lopez is going to need help in the paint and Tyler is a ready player having played in Japan professionally.
28. Chicago Bulls – Marshon Brooks, SG Providence
Analysis – Chicago needs a shooting guard in the worst way and while Marshon is more of a combo guard, he can definitely score the ball. Marshon could also serve as a backup for Derrick Rose. They could sell this pick, but Chicago could actually use a talent influx.
*UPDATE* Nolan Smith, PG-SG Duke
Analysis: Can backup both guard positions and adds depth.
29. San Antonio Spurs – Justin Harper, PF Richmond
Analysis – Time has run out on the Spurs. They need to seriously consider blowing things up and start over. They are trying move up in the draft to get better talent, but as of now, we’ll have them here taking Harper. This makes sense as Duncan isn’t the same contributor anymore.
30. Chicago Bulls – Davis Bertans, SF Latvia
Analysis – The second of two first round picks, Chicago can afford to use this pick on a Euro and maybe have him stay overseas until he is ready to come over. Remember, they did finish first in the East, so while they could use the talent provided with this pick, it’s not a necessity.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: Why Jimmer Mania Could Be Coming to Sacramento
Mr. Armchair Speaks: Why Jimmer Mania Could Be Coming to Sacramento: "A question was pose to me by my great friend, and the consummate ladies man I might add, Adam Slavin, about Jimmer Fredette and him possibly..."
Why Jimmer Mania Could Be Coming to Sacramento
A question was pose to me by my great friend, and the consummate ladies man I might add, Adam Slavin, about Jimmer Fredette and him possibly being drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the upcoming NBA Draft. The Kings had Jimmer in two weeks ago for a workout and sources say they came away more impressed with him as a player than they originally had. He apparently showed that he is a much better athlete than scouts had thought and showed that he can indeed play the point in the NBA. The big nack on Jimmer was that the style of basketball he played in college would not translate to how the point guard position is played in the NBA; the position he will most likely be playing. While in college, Jimmer was a scoring guard who could shoot the lights out when open and set up for jump shots. But in his workout with the Kings, and apparently other teams are starting too notice as well, Jimmer can indeed play the point in the NBA. He is showing in workouts that he is a better ball handler and passer than he displayed in college. He is moving up draft boards quickly and is becoming the big question mark of the draft. Where will Jimmer land?
For the most part, his ceiling is as high as the Kings at #7. And while drafting Jimmer may not be the best basketball decision the Kings could make, it’s definitely one that the Kings’ brass is going to have to consider. On ESPN.com, Chad Ford wrote a little piece on the Kings possibly drafting Jimmer. To paraphrase:
"So would the Kings take a player at No. 7 whom most have as a late lottery pick? Yes and no. It's complicated.
Fredette isn't the top-rated guard on their board -- Brandon Knight is. Kemba Walker also has fans in the organization, but it's much closer between the two players. The Kings may feel that a bigger need is at the 3, and either Kawhi Leonard or Jan Vesely should be on the board there.
But that's half the story. The other half is the Maloofs, who are getting more involved in the Kings' front office. I'm told the owners are the ones who are pushing hard for Jimmer, and they may get their way.
I'm not sure they're wrong in pushing for him. Although it might be "high" for Fredette, he would be a good fit in Sacramento with Tyreke Evans. If you believe he can play the point, the Kings could have one of the most lethal scoring backcourts in the NBA down the road."
For the most part, his ceiling is as high as the Kings at #7. And while drafting Jimmer may not be the best basketball decision the Kings could make, it’s definitely one that the Kings’ brass is going to have to consider. On ESPN.com, Chad Ford wrote a little piece on the Kings possibly drafting Jimmer. To paraphrase:
"So would the Kings take a player at No. 7 whom most have as a late lottery pick? Yes and no. It's complicated.
Fredette isn't the top-rated guard on their board -- Brandon Knight is. Kemba Walker also has fans in the organization, but it's much closer between the two players. The Kings may feel that a bigger need is at the 3, and either Kawhi Leonard or Jan Vesely should be on the board there.
But that's half the story. The other half is the Maloofs, who are getting more involved in the Kings' front office. I'm told the owners are the ones who are pushing hard for Jimmer, and they may get their way.
I'm not sure they're wrong in pushing for him. Although it might be "high" for Fredette, he would be a good fit in Sacramento with Tyreke Evans. If you believe he can play the point, the Kings could have one of the most lethal scoring backcourts in the NBA down the road."
This is what I take away from that. The Maloofs want Jimmer because they know he will put the casual fans in the seats, thereby making them lots and lots of money. And in a time when the Kings need to make a splash and create noise, it’s not out of the realm for the Kings to consider this course of action. To translate, it’s a real possibility that the Kings draft Jimmer Fredette. The Kings would draft Jimmer because in a time when the Kings finances aren’t the best and they are trying to generate revenue to built a new sports and entertainment complex, they could market the hell out of Jimmer and make some good money.
Darren Rovell with CNBC’s sports business was interviewed on The Rise Guys radio show a few days ago about this very topic. He said that the Kings would definitely see a spike in revenue from the “Jimmer” factor if they did indeed draft him; and if the Kings are indeed wanting to make a move that would be in the best business interest of the team, drafting Jimmer may be that move. Now it's not my contension that Jimmer is going to come in and completely sell out games all by himself, but I do think more people would come to Kings home games just to see him. Also, people would buy all sorts of merchandise that had him on it, like t-shits and jerseys. That’s all revenue errand for the Maloofs and Kings. It’s a circumstance that the Kings have to look into, considering the hype he received in college and how much of a polarizing figure he was for college basketball.
It’s like when the Kings drafted Bobby Hurley out of Duke. He was a highly touted point guard and a very recognizable figure. People loved him and went to games just to see him. This is a similar situation. This is the most important season and time in Kings’ basketball history; which is why the need to draft someone who has a high name ID, high character, and is someone who could create a buzz, is all that much more important. If the Kings were to draft some tissue soft player from Europe or a no-name small college player, then start the season 2-15, all the good will and momentum that was built up this offseason to keep the Kings and for the new sports and entertainment complex push will all be for not. The Kings this offseason had a huge spike in season tickets and game packages sells. They have to consider bringing in someone who the people want to see. People in Sacramento want to see Jimmer!! It may not be the best basketball move the Kings could make, but often times we hear of sports talked about as a business; and it may be in the best interest of the Kings as a business.
I’ve said all along that I would like the Kings to draft UCONN point guard Kemba Walker. He is a natural leader who led his UCONN Huskies to the NCAA Tournament Championship, and the Kings are desperate for leadership from anyone. But for other reason that are non-basketball related is why Jimmer Mania could be coming to Sacramento.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
Friday, June 17, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: I Guess I Just Like Seeing I'm Not Alone
Mr. Armchair Speaks: I Guess I Just Like Seeing I'm Not Alone: "I’m not the biggest proponent of our local newspaper (The Sacramento Bee), but since it’s the only paper we have, I pick it up or go online ..."
I Guess I Just Like Seeing I'm Not Alone
I’m not the biggest proponent of our local newspaper (The Sacramento Bee), but since it’s the only paper we have, I pick it up or go online and read it every now and then. I’m also not the biggest fan of their sports page either. For us long-time Sacramentians, when you think about all of the now famous sports writers who started their careers at the Sacramento Bee that have since moved on to bigger and better gigs, it makes you wonder how good this paper and sports section really used to be. Reporters like Damon Hack and Sam Amik now write for Sports Illustrated, Scott Howard-Cooper writes for NBA.com, Mark Kriedler has a morning sports radio show and guest writes for ESPN.com, and who can forget Marty Mac, all once wrote columns and articles for the Sac Bee.
I’m not here to slam every sports reporter currently at the Sac Bee. I like Jason Jones a lot and his coverage of the Kings. I enjoy Matt Barrows and his coverage of the 49ers. And for the most part, I read columns by Marcos Breton. He has kind of branched off from just covering sports and now writes on all aspects of Sacramento news, but once in a while, he’ll pop off about something sports related, and half the time, I’ll agree with him. However, the piece below that he wrote is phenomenal in my opinion. Not that I want to use my blog to re-post other people’s work, but this I felt I had to share, not only because I agree with him and feel it’s a good read, but it’s also validation for a piece that I wrote a while back. My man, The Professor, and I engaged in a good debate about this very topic.
I wrote a piece called “I Might Be In The Minority, But I See Where Brian Sabean Was Coming From” and it focused on the Posey/Cousins collision at home plate and Giants General Manager, Brian Sabean’s comments that followed. At the time, I was excused of being a “Homer” for calling out Cousin’s for his actions, calling for a rule change, and defending Sabean’s point of view for his comments. The column below I think furthers my points. Or maybe I guess I just like seeing I’m not alone.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
Marcos Breton: Marlins' fortunes turned after Posey collision
Published Friday, Jun. 17, 2011
Call it the curse of baseball ignorance.
Ever since Scott Cousins slammed into Giants catcher Buster Posey, breaking Posey's leg and ending his season, Cousins' Florida Marlins have plunged into the toilet. On Thursday, they lost their seventh straight after starting June with an eight-game skid.
The Marlins' sudden demise has the feel of deserved karma. For many reasons, it seems right that it is the Marlins and not the Giants who are suffering in the standings in the wake of Cousins-Posey.
It feels good, too, for those of us who think baseball should protect catchers from needless collisions.
The Giants remain in first place despite losing one of the brightest stars in baseball in Posey, and second baseman Freddy Sanchez as well.
But the Marlins? They would be 0-16 in June but for a 6-4 win over Arizona June 10. When they left San Francisco on May 26, Florida was 29-19 and only a game behind the Philadelphia Phillies for tops in the National League East.
They've gone 3-19 since and have lost six consecutive series since sweeping the Giants in three games. The Marlins have plunged to 11 1/2 games behind a Phillies team that completed a four-game sweep of Florida on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Cousins is on the disabled list.
Some would dismiss this reversal of fortune as coincidence. The Marlins are young. They have a rookie manager and have been without ace Josh Johnson and star Hanley RamÃrez for long spells. They've gotten terrible pitching.
Whatever.
The Marlins' meltdown is satisfying because it makes you stop and think – and stopping and thinking have been in short supply in baseball since the Cousins-Posey collision.
The national discussion was so disappointing in the wake of that fateful play May 25. Anyone who questioned whether baseball should consider rules to protect catchers was labeled a wimp. The Giants were cast as emotional whiners for expressing frustration at losing a 24-year-old star with the tools to be a once-in-a-generation talent.
In the national media, Cousins was portrayed as a victim who was only "playing the game the right way" when he lowered his shoulder into Posey and shattered his left leg and ankle ligaments.
I read tweets and comments from writers who referred to Posey as a villain for declining to speak with Cousins when the 26-year-old Marlins bench player called Posey to apologize.
And when Giants general manager Brian Sabean made coarse comments about Cousins on live radio, Sabean was destroyed in the national press.
We in the media say we want baseball people to tell the truth. But when they do, we crush them.
Baseball is a thinking person's game, but the culture of the game sometimes discourages thought – as in the classic line in "Bull Durham" when Kevin Costner says, "Don't think, just throw."
In this case, it was, "Don't stop to consider a better way of protecting players. Cling instead to century-old ideas of machismo."
Cousins had room to slide and score but chose to go through Posey to win a game. Many – myself included – initially played it off as: "Just baseball."
But why?
Why do those of us who love baseball cling to old attitudes as Catholic bishops cling to canon law?
All changes in baseball – integration, free agency, interleague play, the wild card and steroid testing – were initially viewed with disdain by many in the baseball press and public.
When Steve Wilstein of the Associated Press found now-banned performance-enhancing substances in Mark McGwire's locker at the height of McGwire's fame and wrote about it, Wilstein was slammed by the public and even some colleagues in the press.
How do we feel about McGwire and performance-enhancing substances now?
Many of us rushed to the conclusion that Cousins meant no harm when that wasn't the salient point.
What matters is that his collision with Posey was unnecessary. Yet in current baseball rules, players such as Cousins can be reckless, thoughtless and legal.
That's dumb.
What would be lost if, like in college baseball, catchers weren't allowed to block the plate and runners weren't allowed to destroy catchers?
Not much.
Maybe now that the emotion of Cousins-Posey has subsided we can think about the issue rationally.
In late May, the thinking was that the Giants were in trouble while the Marlins were rising.
According to published accounts, the young Marlins celebrated sweeping the Giants by feasting on In-N-Out burgers as they left San Francisco with heavy recriminations in their wake.
They've fallen apart since then, while the Giants have persevered.
It makes you think.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: Completing Baseball's Trifecta
Mr. Armchair Speaks: Completing Baseball's Trifecta: "Two of baseball’s most historic and hallowed franchises will be squaring off in a weekend series that I’m sure will draw some attention, not..."
Completing Baseball's Trifecta
Two of baseball’s most historic and hallowed franchises will be squaring off in a weekend series that I’m sure will draw some attention, not because of the play on the field, but because of who they are. This weekend, the New York Yankees will be traveling to Chicago to take on the Cubs in an Interleague series. While the Yankees are playing solid baseball and contending for the American League East Division title, the Chicago Cubs are once again dying a slow death at the bottom of the Nation League Central Division. However, because the New York Yankees are in fact, the New York Yankees, and the Chicago Cubs fans resent any team that has a championship, this series should bring out the best that baseball enthusiast have to offer. But what caused me to write this pierce was not that the teams are playing each other or how well or bad they are playing, but this weekends' series brings about fond memories of a life-long goal of mine that is still in the process of becoming complete.
As a baseball enthusiast, I made a personal promise to myself that before I die, I would attend one game at each of baseball’s sacred grounds: Wrigley Field, Fenway Park, and Old Yankee Stadium. When thinking about the history and tradition that has occurred within those outfield walls leaves me mouth agape. The events and moments that have occurred their makes’ me wonder what it would have been like to live in the olden times. Lou Gehrig’s speech, Babe Ruth calling his shot, Roger Maris hitting 61*, and Yastrzemzski pushing his ball fair are all lasting moments in baseball history. Walking around these stadiums is like a historian going to Gettysburg and walking the battle field (which I haven't done but think is pretty awesome in its own right). For me however, I’m 2/3 of the way there.
My personal promise to myself first started with Old Yankee Stadium. While Wrigley and Fenway are very cool in their own right, for me, Old Yankee Stadium is the Mecca. We all know the history and tradition that comes with the pin stripes so I won’t dwell on it. Not only was I in Old Yankee Stadium and that they are a team I am a fan of, but I was in Old Yankee Stadium for what was going to be the last game ever played there. Now half way converted into a parking lot, walking through the doors of the Old Yankee Stadium brought about a sense of total nostalgia that I will never fully be able to explain. Knowing that it was going to be the last home game ever played there was equally eerie. Babe Ruth pounded homers from the batter’s box, Lou Gehrig stood on the field and proclaimed “I am the luckiest man on Earth,” Mantle and DiMaggio roamed the outfield, Rivera running out from center field to “Enter Sandman,” and Der-ek Je-ter rang through the stadium. We had perfect seats out in the center field bleachers right above Momument Park and the bullpens. Mrs. Loveseat took many of photos of me with a dumbfound look on my face. The whole experience of taking the subway to the game, walking around the stadium, the pre and post game celebrations made this a truly epic event in my sporting life.
Last year, Labor Day weekend, I had to pleasure of attending a game at Wrigley Field. Mrs. Loveseat and I planned a little mini vacation to Chi-town and in our quest to find some decent Cubs tickets, it turned out that her Uncle had a friend with season tickets that he could float us for a game. Wrigley Field is simply awesome. What makes Wrigley Field, Wrigley Field, is the atmosphere surrounding the field. Along with taking the “L” to the game, many people told us that we had to get in the vicinity of the ballpark a few hours early to get the full experience of Wrigley Field and the area known as “Wrigleyville.” There are many bars and restaurants that align the streets of Wrigleyville and street officials even close down streets so that people can “walk freely” to and from bars to ballpark. This is the same field were Ruth called his shot and Bartman caught the most important foul ball in history. Seeing the ivy along the outfield walls and the seats atop the apartment complexes that tower over the field is a sight onto itself.
Remember I said that I was only 2/3's of the way there. The one place I have yet to make my way too, but I’m planning on it in the very near future, is Fenway. I want to see the monster with my own eyes and walk down and touch Pesky’s Pole. I want to see the batter’s box that Williams’ hit .400 in and where Yastrmezsky fans his ball fair. And lastly, I want to sing “Sweet Caroline” at the bottom of the 7th inning during the stretch. I hear tickets are hard to come by, as Red Sox fans are among the most deadhard of them all, and almost ever give up tickets. But I vow to find a way to get into the ballpark and watch a Red Sox game. And of course, I will do whatever I can to make it a Yankees v. Red Sox game, because if you are going to watch one game at Fenway, why not make it a game featuring baseball's greatest rivalry. I'll be sporting my Jeter #2 t-shirt of course. How much beer do you think will get thrown on me?
One of the reasons why we love baseball is because of its long history and tradition that lives on. And with baseball slowing coming to grips with the modern era and the need to build bigger and shinier stadiums, it's pretty cool that some things remain as they were when this beautiful game first in its glory years. When we have an opportunity to live through the past and be a part of history, it’s something that we all should take advantage of. That is the driving force for me in completing baseball's trifecta.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
Monday, June 13, 2011
Mr. Armchair Speaks: The Mavs Brought Their Talents to South Beach, And...
Mr. Armchair Speaks: The Mavs Brought Their Talents to South Beach, And...: "I'm not going to talk too much about the Dallas Mavericks winning the NBA Championships and try to depict how their fans must be feeling. I..."
The Mavs Brought Their Talents to South Beach, And Won an NBA Championship!!
I'm not going to talk too much about the Dallas Mavericks winning the NBA Championships and try to depict how their fans must be feeling. I'm going to leave that up to my #1 Dallas Mavericks' Fan, The Professor, as his words will paint a much better picture of the raw emotion he and the rest of the Dallas Mavericks' fans are probably feeling right now. I'm anticipating a very eloquent and poetic blog from him. I'll wait with anticipation to read it and should you guys. Check it out along with his other fantastic post Here.
Just some quick highlights about what we learned from this NBA Finals.
1. This was an awesome NBA Finals!!! This is what the NBA exactly needed. I think the NBA was getting a little complaisant and it needed something to energize its fan base. Yeah last summer's free agency got a lot a hype and pub, but this NBA Finals really re-energized the NBA juices for a lot of people, including this blogger. It reminded us that NBA basketball really is a great game and great sport to watch. Every game of this NBA Finals was so captivating and exciting that I really think the NBA added to their fan base, converting a lot of casual NBA fans too real followers now. Now if they can only settle the upcoming labor issues with the expiring CBA, they can really grow as a sport.
2. Dirk is a baller!!! Dirk Nowitzki really established himself amongst the NBA's elite with his performance in this NBA Finals. Before this series, Dirk was always thought of as a very good player, but no one was ever ga-ga over him. Everyone knew his game and knew what he was capable of, but that didn't include leading his team to the NBA Finals, much less actually winning it. He was always thought of as a "1A" type player, meaning that for Dallas to go any further than they already have, they would need a superstar to be their #1 player, with Dirk as a "1A" type player. Dirk silenced those critics and has started a new debate; where do we put him among the NBA's greatest. Mark Jackson at the end of the game said that Dirk now belongs among the top 20 greatest players of all-time. Can we argue with him after this NBA Finals???
3. Chris Bosh must be the greatest BFF in the world!!! Everyone knew that LeBron and D-Wade were close friends and during last summer's free agency period, it would be that friendship that would ultimately bring LeBron to Miami. But Chris Bosh?? Really?? Bosh was a nice player in Toronto and would demand a high paying contract due to the market value. No one really knew where Bosh would land, but when talks started to surface that he would go wherever LeBron and D-Wade landed and join them as a package deal, that made heads scratch. That came out of deep left field. We all knew that they were drafted in the same draft class and knew each other, but for him to be lumped in with LeBron and D-Wade to form the new Ross, Chandler, and Joey was beyond me. There is a saying that if you are not the smartest guy in the room, surround yourself with the smartest people in the room so that they make you look like you are the smartest. Somehow, Bosh was able to do this with LeBron and D-Wade. Maybe a better example is the last line of the movie "The Usual Suspects" when Verbal Kent says, "The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist." Well, not to say that Chris Bosh is the devil, but that may now be the second greatest trick ever pulled, after what Bosh was able to pull on LeBron, D-Wade, and the rest of the Miami Heat; convincing them that he was needed to win an NBA Championship.
4. Who is LeBron??? LeBron is not who we thought he was. I did my previous blog post on this topic so I'm not going to continue to pile on the man, but he really changed a lot of peoples perception of him as a player with his performance in these Finals, especially with his play in the 4th quarter and crunch time. If LeBron had any semblance of a 4th quarter in Games 2,4, and 5, then Miami would already be crowned the champions. But he didn't, and now the Heat are the first losers of the NBA. Listen, LeBron is a freakish athlete. He is the most gifted athlete in the game right now. But when you bring upon yourself the attention that LeBron has, you are expected to produce like a superstar and the best player in the game in crunch time. If it's personal or mental with him and something was getting to him to cause these lapses in the 4th quarter and crunch time, you need to bring me something more than that. The best player in the game can't use that as an excuse. Mental shutdowns can't occur. What do you do during winning time?? That's what differentiate a good player from a superstar. A superstar wants to be on the foul line for the game winning free throws. A superstar wants the ball in his hands for that last shot. A good player, defers to the superstar.
5. The littlest guys on the court always have the biggest hearts!!! I'm going to let the play of Jason Terry and JJ Barea speak for themselves. I'll only say that I have a new found respect for Jason "JET" Terry. Who gets a tattoo of the Larry O'Brien trophy on their right bicep before the season started and then goes on to actually win it? Heart!!! JJ Barea, all 6'0" of him (measured probably while wearing stilettos) was always near the ball and or on the ground fighting for it. Heart baby!!!
6. GO BEARS!!! J.Kidd finally got his ring!!! Cal Bears unite!!! Top 3 greatest PG of all-time. Second all-time in assist, third all-time in steals, and the most impressive stats, third all-time in three-pointers made. THIRD ALL-TIME IN THREE POINTERS MADE!!! This coming from a guy who used to be called "ason Kidd" because he had no "J". A triple-double threat on any given night. Great player to watch.
7. Mavs in 6, what a call!!! Proof, Memorial Day (May 31st), Rick Mizuno present. Dialog:
Rick: What's your prediction for the NBA Finals??
Mr. Armchair: Mavs in 6.
Rick: Really, how so??
Mr. Armchair: Well, the Mavs will win one in Miami, most likely Game 2 (bing), then they will go home to Dallas to win 2 of 3 there (bing), and then judging by how well they play on the road, and knowing that they can't let the series go to a Game 7, the Mavs will win Game 6 (BING!!!!) to win the championship.
To be fair, I wasn't too confident in that prediction and told him that I wouldn't put too much money on that. But hey, why make predictions if you are not going to gloat about it when you get it right.
8. Validation prevails!!! Before these NBA Finals started I wrote a piece about how I would be rooting for the Dallas Mavericks because I believe that when you have no rooting interest in any of the teams involved, then you should root for the validation of the careers of veterans. Now, Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Shawn Marion, and Jason Terry's careers are now validated by them winning an NBA Championship.
That is all I have for you. Congratulations again to the Dallas Mavericks players and organization, my friend and fellow blogger The Professor (again check out his blog Here), and the rest of the Dallas Mavericks' fans out there who are celebrating their NBA Championship. The Mavs brought their talents to South Beach, and won an NBA Championship.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
Just some quick highlights about what we learned from this NBA Finals.
1. This was an awesome NBA Finals!!! This is what the NBA exactly needed. I think the NBA was getting a little complaisant and it needed something to energize its fan base. Yeah last summer's free agency got a lot a hype and pub, but this NBA Finals really re-energized the NBA juices for a lot of people, including this blogger. It reminded us that NBA basketball really is a great game and great sport to watch. Every game of this NBA Finals was so captivating and exciting that I really think the NBA added to their fan base, converting a lot of casual NBA fans too real followers now. Now if they can only settle the upcoming labor issues with the expiring CBA, they can really grow as a sport.
2. Dirk is a baller!!! Dirk Nowitzki really established himself amongst the NBA's elite with his performance in this NBA Finals. Before this series, Dirk was always thought of as a very good player, but no one was ever ga-ga over him. Everyone knew his game and knew what he was capable of, but that didn't include leading his team to the NBA Finals, much less actually winning it. He was always thought of as a "1A" type player, meaning that for Dallas to go any further than they already have, they would need a superstar to be their #1 player, with Dirk as a "1A" type player. Dirk silenced those critics and has started a new debate; where do we put him among the NBA's greatest. Mark Jackson at the end of the game said that Dirk now belongs among the top 20 greatest players of all-time. Can we argue with him after this NBA Finals???
3. Chris Bosh must be the greatest BFF in the world!!! Everyone knew that LeBron and D-Wade were close friends and during last summer's free agency period, it would be that friendship that would ultimately bring LeBron to Miami. But Chris Bosh?? Really?? Bosh was a nice player in Toronto and would demand a high paying contract due to the market value. No one really knew where Bosh would land, but when talks started to surface that he would go wherever LeBron and D-Wade landed and join them as a package deal, that made heads scratch. That came out of deep left field. We all knew that they were drafted in the same draft class and knew each other, but for him to be lumped in with LeBron and D-Wade to form the new Ross, Chandler, and Joey was beyond me. There is a saying that if you are not the smartest guy in the room, surround yourself with the smartest people in the room so that they make you look like you are the smartest. Somehow, Bosh was able to do this with LeBron and D-Wade. Maybe a better example is the last line of the movie "The Usual Suspects" when Verbal Kent says, "The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist." Well, not to say that Chris Bosh is the devil, but that may now be the second greatest trick ever pulled, after what Bosh was able to pull on LeBron, D-Wade, and the rest of the Miami Heat; convincing them that he was needed to win an NBA Championship.
4. Who is LeBron??? LeBron is not who we thought he was. I did my previous blog post on this topic so I'm not going to continue to pile on the man, but he really changed a lot of peoples perception of him as a player with his performance in these Finals, especially with his play in the 4th quarter and crunch time. If LeBron had any semblance of a 4th quarter in Games 2,4, and 5, then Miami would already be crowned the champions. But he didn't, and now the Heat are the first losers of the NBA. Listen, LeBron is a freakish athlete. He is the most gifted athlete in the game right now. But when you bring upon yourself the attention that LeBron has, you are expected to produce like a superstar and the best player in the game in crunch time. If it's personal or mental with him and something was getting to him to cause these lapses in the 4th quarter and crunch time, you need to bring me something more than that. The best player in the game can't use that as an excuse. Mental shutdowns can't occur. What do you do during winning time?? That's what differentiate a good player from a superstar. A superstar wants to be on the foul line for the game winning free throws. A superstar wants the ball in his hands for that last shot. A good player, defers to the superstar.
5. The littlest guys on the court always have the biggest hearts!!! I'm going to let the play of Jason Terry and JJ Barea speak for themselves. I'll only say that I have a new found respect for Jason "JET" Terry. Who gets a tattoo of the Larry O'Brien trophy on their right bicep before the season started and then goes on to actually win it? Heart!!! JJ Barea, all 6'0" of him (measured probably while wearing stilettos) was always near the ball and or on the ground fighting for it. Heart baby!!!
6. GO BEARS!!! J.Kidd finally got his ring!!! Cal Bears unite!!! Top 3 greatest PG of all-time. Second all-time in assist, third all-time in steals, and the most impressive stats, third all-time in three-pointers made. THIRD ALL-TIME IN THREE POINTERS MADE!!! This coming from a guy who used to be called "ason Kidd" because he had no "J". A triple-double threat on any given night. Great player to watch.
7. Mavs in 6, what a call!!! Proof, Memorial Day (May 31st), Rick Mizuno present. Dialog:
Rick: What's your prediction for the NBA Finals??
Mr. Armchair: Mavs in 6.
Rick: Really, how so??
Mr. Armchair: Well, the Mavs will win one in Miami, most likely Game 2 (bing), then they will go home to Dallas to win 2 of 3 there (bing), and then judging by how well they play on the road, and knowing that they can't let the series go to a Game 7, the Mavs will win Game 6 (BING!!!!) to win the championship.
To be fair, I wasn't too confident in that prediction and told him that I wouldn't put too much money on that. But hey, why make predictions if you are not going to gloat about it when you get it right.
8. Validation prevails!!! Before these NBA Finals started I wrote a piece about how I would be rooting for the Dallas Mavericks because I believe that when you have no rooting interest in any of the teams involved, then you should root for the validation of the careers of veterans. Now, Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Shawn Marion, and Jason Terry's careers are now validated by them winning an NBA Championship.
That is all I have for you. Congratulations again to the Dallas Mavericks players and organization, my friend and fellow blogger The Professor (again check out his blog Here), and the rest of the Dallas Mavericks' fans out there who are celebrating their NBA Championship. The Mavs brought their talents to South Beach, and won an NBA Championship.
Mr. Armchair Speaking
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