CalviNation Presents: The Rappaport Report

WIZARDS: Wizards Unveil New Logos and Uniforms

2011-05-17T20:03:00.000-07:00

WIZARDS: Wizards Unveil New Logos and Uniforms

Bill Simmons: Presenting a gift to the 2011 NBA playoffs, courtesy of "The Wire" - ESPN

2011-05-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

Bill Simmons: Presenting a gift to the 2011 NBA playoffs, courtesy of "The Wire" - ESPN

Orlando Magic won't shave for rest of the season - Game On!: Covering the Latest Sports News

2011-04-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

Orlando Magic won't shave for rest of the season - Game On!: Covering the Latest Sports News

RIP Tyler Hansbrough

2011-04-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

Long Live Kurt Thomas

Bulls unveil bronze bust of Hall of Famer Pippen | NBA.com

2011-04-08T06:15:00.000-07:00

Bulls unveil bronze bust of Hall of Famer Pippen | NBA.com

Blake Griffin offensive foul/dunk on Marcin Gortat 3-20-11

2011-03-20T17:44:00.000-07:00

This season has been the most ridiculous in terms of what constitutes every level of fouls called. Because of David Stern's enforcement for "Respect of the Game" players are practically unable to react naturally after plays of high emotion.

What's most outrageous in this clip is the fact that Griffin receives a technical for not keeping his composure after a very questionable call. To add to this matter is the already high emotions of a winding down fourth quarter, which begs the question as to how are players expected to play with heart when they are penalized so often for it? There is a big difference in a technical deserved (confrontational gestures) and being horrified by a unbelievable call. Yet the severity is the same. This is no longer a matter of respecting the game but over-regulation. Along with soccer, basketball is a sport that heavily relies on referees meant to monitor the game, not teach behavior. This strictness should have been authorized 20 years ago, when the league was at its peak of an image crisis. Times have certainly changed, and once again the NBA has clearly fallen behind.

Lakers fans rated among worst sports fans - Ball Don't Lie - NBA Blog - Yahoo! Sports

2011-03-17T12:54:00.000-07:00

Lakers fans rated among worst sports fans - Ball Don't Lie - NBA Blog - Yahoo! Sports

Sacramento Kings = Anaheim Royals? « NBA.com | Hang Time Blog

2011-03-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

"We're moving? Are we still monarchal-themed?"

The name of this article is pretty self-explanatory, the Kings are most likely on the move.

an attorney for the Maloof family, which owns the Kings, has filed for the trademark papers for the Royals name in federal court, it’s a very real possibility. The Kings have until April 18 to formally request the league allow it to move to a new city for the next season.

I'm actually writing this article to express my displeasure of play by Tyreke Evans this year, who along with Brandon Jennings received my full endorsement as "players on the rise" and this year have brought a whole new meaning to the term Sophomore Slump. I have a reputation to maintain, stop ruining it ya jerks!

Also, Omri Casspi is awesome, only bright spot on the Kings these days. Go Israel!

SOURCE:

Sacramento Kings = Anaheim Royals? « NBA.com | Hang Time Blog

Stars align in NBA's new galaxy - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

2011-02-28T13:09:00.000-08:00

"Team me up, Scotty!"

Marc J. Spears I applaud your article, for saying exactly what I stated the moment LeBron James infamously took his "talents to Long Beach." I supported LeBron's decision because it was the second biggest step in reversing an inflated star system, rooting back to when the Minnesota Timberwolves shelled out unprecedented money to Kevin Garnett back in 1997.

Of course, Kevin Garnett has proven over his 16 year career that he fulfilled the franchise player potential the Timberwolves bestowed upon him once upon a time. However the unprecedented spike in money-to-player value has since opened the floodgates to growing franchises, giving big paydays for players that take advantage of the immeasurable potential gap. Notable players that have been overpaid due to this gap include:

Allan Houston: six years, $100 million (New York Knicks, 2001)

Stephon Marbury: four years, $76 million extension (Phoenix Suns, 2003)

Larry Hughes: five years, $70 million (Cleveland Cavaliers, 2005)

Michael Redd: six years, $91 million (Milwaukee Bucks, 2005)

Ben Wallace: four years, $60 million (Chicago Bulls, 2006)

Rashard Lewis: six years, $118 million (Orlando Magic, 2007)

I personally think the ridiculous Rashard Lewis contract was the breaking point. After years of opportune moments to shine on the Sonics, Lewis grew to be at best a self-defined sharp shooter and able scorer but still managed to be perceived as a ample sidekick to the quick emerging Dwight Howard. NBA teams faced two sad truths:

Proven NBA talent tended to stay in place.
If you were a team lucky to have a true franchise potential, overpaying for sub-par assistance was common practice.

However what seemingly began with Kevin Garnett would also end with him nearly a decade later.

This is today’s NBA: The stars not only understand the appeal of playing on a larger stage – a lure that has existed for years – they also now see a benefit in teaming together with players who had been their personal rivals. From the creation of the Big Three in Boston to Pau Gasol’s (notes) trade to the Los Angeles Lakers to LeBron James (notes)and Chris Bosh (notes) joiningDwyane Wade (notes) in Miami to a trade deadline that sent Anthony to New York and Deron Williams (notes) to the New Jersey Nets, the NBA’s superstars are forming their own super teams – a transition that has many questioning whether the league’s small- and mid-market franchises can continue to compete.

The mid-market franchises are already struggling, with the Sacramento Kings apparently now looking to move to Anaheim and the Bobcats giving their debts to Michael Jordan to pay off. Neither team has found a reliable franchise face since 2004, the Bobcats initial season and Chris Webber's last year with the Kings. Raptors fans still loudly boo Vince Carter for his uninspired play at the finale of his Toronto career. Like Denver in the Carmelo Anthony situation, the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1999 were forced to trade newly drafted Steve Francis for a collection of role players. Mid-markets teams will struggle, but with the approaching lockout and the reshaping of future contracts it is unclear where the stars of the future will land.

However because of the formation of super teams and the empowerment of big markets, things in the NBA will change for the better. The prospect of money will no longer overshadow the prospect of winning. Dead weight contracts will decrease because the money-to-player value will no longer be so disproportionate. I'm not predicting a golden era of fair salaries and teamwork, but I do believe super teams are a cultivation of matured egos and a collective strive to re-create the unfathomable success of the Bill Russell Celtics.

SOURCE:

Stars align in NBA's new galaxy - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

REFERENCE:

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=contracts/090212&sportCat=nba

This will be a good reference point to look back on one day....

2011-02-27T16:44:00.000-08:00

I agree and support Shaun Powell because of this article. With about 20 games left in the season and a lockout looking pretty imminent, let's see how much crazier this season can get.

With Love, R.C.

http://www.nba.com/2011/news/features/shaun_powell/02/25/trade-winners-losers/index.html

Resrve your Andray Baltch jersey today, along with your vintage Troy Murphy NETS jersey

2011-02-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

http://sports.yahoo.com/sportsminute

Just For Fun

2011-01-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

For all my fans that have no idea this blog even exist, you can tell that my efforts in this blog are beyond minimal. Having said this, this blog was mainly intended to have fun reporting the NBA and make opinions known.

So one day in the future when my predictions are proven right I can say "HA! I called it right when it happened!"

Here are some things I'm gonna briefly riff about in order to quote myself in the future:

1) I have high hopes for Orlando, but either the Celtics or the Heat are going to be Eastern Conference champs this year. The Celtics are phenomenal, but expect some superhuman performances by Miami's Big 3 this year in the playoffs.

2) I love the Lakers. I became a Lakers fan because of Kobe, but as of recent I've realized my love goes beyond the player and into the franchise that will continue to have several great teams in the future. Just like last year, the Lakers don't show the fire or consistent game play that a defending Championship team should. Every other game I find myself questioning if they have enough.

HOWEVER

I believe in a story telling aspect of basketball that makes the sport to me...well more than just a game. Stats can only go as far to predict how teams shape up when it comes down to it. As seen in the playoff series last year against the Thunder and the Suns, the Lakers pose little intimidation to underdog teams. Yet they win because they make the right plays down the line.

(On a side note, I think either Derek Fisher or Ron Artest should have won the finals MVP last year for their performances in Game's 3 and 7 respectively. they shifted the momentum of the series, not Kobe. If the Celtics won, Big Baby Davis deserved it!)

The Lakers have a shot in the brutal Western Conference this year because some championship caliber teams will find themselves knocked out before they expect it. Dallas and San Antonio have been crossing paths in the playoffs for a decade now, with the Mavs upsetting the Spurs in 2009 and the Spurs returning the favor this past April. With Dallas suffering a losing streak due to the absence of Dirk and Caron Butler recently, they are struggling to return to elite form and I believe are bound to continue struggling.

Eventually, I predict that the Spurs and the Mavs will meet in the playoffs before the conference finals and once again eliminate each other. In my opinion both teams can win it all, but sadly both teams have an entwined Highlander fate: There can be only one. And that one must take out the other.

The rest of the West at this point is pretty questionable in opposition

THUNDER- Still a young team. Incredible potential. But are they a smart enough team this year to beat the Lakers? I don't think so.

The HORNETS- Anything is possible with Chris Paul, but they're defense remains questionable. Which is sad because the Hornets have all the pieces for a solid defensive team. In the end, the Lakers can still beat them.

NUGGETS- Whether or not Carmelo Anthony stays, the Nuggets no longer have that collective hunger they had last year before George Karl took his medical leave of absence. They are OUT.

TRAIL BLAZERS- They are unhealthy, they're potential from 2 years is quickly diminishing on top of that. I see no upsets from this team.

PHOENIX- Nope

So there you have it. The Lakers will have to play either the Mavericks or the Spurs. Even though the Mavs embarrassed the Lakers this past week, the Lakers overall have better size that will make the difference. Against the Spurs, the Lakers will have to play flawless defense every game. The lane must be completely shut down to stop Ginobili and Parker from driving and drawing fouls. Bynum will have to move quickly against George Hill, and Odom will have to create defensive mismatches against Jefferson and whoever else appointed to guard him.

In the end, I think the Lakers can beat every elite team this year, and the biggest threat comes from the Heat. The Heat are just too versatile at times, unless Bynum finally has the explosive season we've all been waiting for since 2007.

Special Cavs jerseys debuted last night (Jan 21st, 2011)

2011-01-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

Just felt like this deserved attention, last year's Cavs jersey mixed with the Cavs' 90s colorway. I think they should keep it, nothing else is raising interest in Cleveland these days anyway.

Steve Francis checks into Chinese game with iced ankles - Ball Don't Lie - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

2010-12-20T23:58:00.000-08:00

Steve Francis checks into Chinese game with iced ankles - Ball Don't Lie - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

TIMBERWOLVES VIDEO: The B-Easy Show: Alternate Uniforms

2010-12-09T19:36:00.000-08:00

The best part is when coach Kurt Rambis blows up Beasley's spot and mocks his defense. Very excited about the black jersey. This season might have the best jerseys overall of the entire decade.

TIMBERWOLVES VIDEO: The B-Easy Show: Alternate Uniforms

Miami!!!!!!

2010-12-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

LeBronnnnnn

2010-12-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

540c182847bdad42a1856d08875f1298-getty-103882847jd002_miami_heat_v.jpg (660×510)

AP source: NBA has a deal to buy Hornets | NBA.com

2010-12-05T16:59:00.000-08:00

AP source: NBA has a deal to buy Hornets | NBA.com

Blazers' Oden to have second microfracture surgery | NBA.com

2010-11-17T22:14:00.000-08:00

This is just getting sad...

Blazers' Oden to have second microfracture surgery | NBA.com

Pistons' Hamilton ejected less than 5 minutes into game | NBA.com

2010-11-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

The referee situation is getting ridiculous...

Pistons' Hamilton ejected less than 5 minutes into game | NBA.com

New York NBA store to close in February | NBA.com

2010-11-09T13:55:00.000-08:00

New York NBA store to close in February | NBA.com

Stephen Jackson is fined after being spied upon - Ball Don't Lie - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

2010-11-09T10:42:00.000-08:00

Stephen Jackson is fined after being spied upon - Ball Don't Lie - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

League closing doors on Thomas’ iffy return - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

2010-11-09T10:39:00.000-08:00

League closing doors on Thomas’ iffy return - NBA - Yahoo! Sports

Iverson's arrival creates a stir in Turkey

2010-11-08T22:13:00.000-08:00

Iverson's arrival creates a stir in Turkey

HoopsHype - NBA Sneakers

2010-11-08T11:58:00.000-08:00

HoopsHype - NBA Sneakers

Rookie John Wall Dougies, then destroys the 76ers - Ball Don't Lie - NBA� - Yahoo! Sports

2010-11-03T22:50:00.000-07:00

Rookie John Wall Dougies, then destroys the 76ers - Ball Don't Lie - NBA� - Yahoo! Sports

Adidas unveils new NBA Revolutionary 30 Jersey

2010-09-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

The Ego

2010-09-07T06:25:00.000-07:00

Woke up and read this article about Shaq's current reflections on his season in Cleveland. Yet another reason why as much I can love Shaq, I hope the Celtics do miserable this year just to point the finger at him...

http://www.nba.com/2010/news/features/steve_aschburner/09/06/shaq.williams/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt1

None of them are from New York City

2010-08-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

Just thought this was a cool picture, no actual reporting here....

Loyalty vs Free Agency

2010-08-23T18:21:00.000-07:00

Just felt this interview was important because it shows how a previous decade of franchise failures has sparked a new train of thought.

Allen Iverson
Currently not in the league after being the face of the 76ers (1996-2006)
1 Finals Appearance

Kevin Garnett
Face of T'Wolves (1995-2007)
1 Conference Finals appearance
Won Championship in first year with Celtics

Gilbert Arenas
Face of the Wizards (2003-2009)
1 Semi Conference Finals appearance
Constant distraction to team by off-court antics.
Gun charge. Injuries.

With the exception of Tim Duncan, Shaq, and recently Kobe Bryant, no other 'franchise' players have delivered championships since the retirement of Michael Jordan. The concept of a franchise player is very much up for debate, but when push comes to shove only these 3 names have proven themselves

click on the link below to read the article:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/paul_forrester/08/18/bosh.qa/index.html

A NEW AGE OF BASKETBALL HAS BEGUN

2010-07-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

Summer 2007- Through well placed trades and controlled egos, Celtics GM unites Paul Pierce with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Celtics turn from cellar dwelling neighbors of the Knicks to Championship ready. The 'Big Three' collect 66 wins on the season and each win their first championship

2008- The Olympic Dream Team is re-imagined for a new generation. The league's top players unite to recapture US glory, the first glimpse of an all-star team meeting past February is seen

2008-9 - Marvel Studios announce Avengers movie to be released in 2012, launching promising franchises for Iron Man, Thor, and the Hulk. With one superhero having the power to carry and summer blockbuster, people wonder how great the power of 3 can be....

summer 2009- LeBron James shakes the NBA cradle by not seeking an extension from the Cavs. 'The King', the 'Chosen One', 'Akron's Finest'....no more?

now...

Chris Bosh could have sought a max contract and become the biggest face in Raptors history, leaving Vince Carter's memory in the dust. But even with years of competitive teams, Toronto's history of attracting big names is slim to none.

Dwyane Wade, following the footsteps of Kobe Bryant from 2005-7, takes the Heat franchise on his shoulders and leads them to nearly 50 wins for the season...but an early first round elimination. With Michael Beasely failing to show expected improvement, Pat Riley wonders what moves must be done to keep his franchise player happy...

LeBron James wonders exactly what I wonder; "What is my team doing wrong? Are we back stepping?" Several teams throughout the league promise bright futures and the money to back it up.
New Jersey? Too much work.
New York? Very questionable defense.
Clippers? HAHA!
Chicago? Very promising! I'll talk about that another day tho

Miami?

........

These three players gave up the illusion of franchise player glory for the factor that inevitably separates the greats from the legends. LeBron James, arguably the best and most popular player in the NBA, is willingly stepping down from his Nike nicknames to be called a champion, and with the great possibility of collecting a decade's worth of rings.

WE ARE ALL WITNESSES

This Nike slogan has an entirely new meaning for James, who after a summit with Wade and Bosh have agreed to put the biggest targets on their back in perhaps the history of the league. Nike is happy, the power trio is excited, and a handful of scorned free agent-hunting teams are ready for revenge. Dan Gilbert has surely put a bounty on James....

And in the wake of one of the most memorable finals match-ups between the NBA's most foremost franchises (Lakers vs Celtics), a new team may take the league into uncharted territory.

Good luck Miami, as much as I love the Lakers I cannot wait to see what you can do. Let's see what's possible.

Long Overdue. Thoughts on months of glorious lost basketball

2010-07-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

Please keep in mind that this post is going to be huge, attempting to note several momentous events of this past season and the off season so far. It will be all over the place and scattered, with editing bound to be a very lengthy process. Having said that, let's see what I can get off my chest.

1. CAVALIERS LOSE YET AGAIN!!!!

LeBron James and company surfed through the first round against the Bulls, only to be dismantled in a stunning fashion by the Celtics. Stan Van Gundy (insert quote here) had mentioned early in the playoffs that nobody should sleep on the Celtics, a warning that everybody neglected including himself in the conference finals...but another case that includes Rashard "secret stomach flu'' Lewis. Still, NBA fans must look back to 2008 and realize how much of a back step this loss is for the entire Cavs franchise. The Cavs have become incredibly deeper since 2008, earning the best regular season finishes two years running and showing little weakness. Yet with much less and only 45 wins two years ago, the Celtics were on the brink of a game 7 elimination in the semi-conference finals.

FAST FORWARD TO NOW.....the Cavs get wiped out by the Magic in 2009 and now by Boston. Of course, contributing factors in these series include coaching...with everybody seemingly forgetting how quickly Stan Van Gundy has turned around the Magic...or how Mike Brown may have badly judged the benching of Shaq (who was signed specifically to carry the load in the playoffs). Funny how I mention this critical comment of Brown when I consider him a great coach...and really can't stand Shaq's ego. Yet, one must wonder why Shaq wasn't given the chance to fully prove himself....

A Future Glimpse: Young Players bring back hope to forgotten franchises

2010-04-30T01:04:00.001-07:00

No, this blog has been pretty pretty ghost for this entire season. Reggol B. and I apologize, but none of you sons of bitches read this anyway so we don't care!

Anyways, I'm writing this because yesterday Tyreke Evan rightfully won the 2010 Rookie of the Year award, defeating Stephen Curry and Brandon Jennings and reviving hope for Sacramento Kings fans for the first time since...2004?

While only Evans won the award, I am excited for these three players and what they will do for their respective franchises. The Kings, Warriors, and Bucks have made the playoffs sparingly this decade, and have dipped into the lottery hoping for a turnaround and have become way too friendly with regular cellar-dwellers the Clippers and Timberwolves. But as we enter a new decade of the NBA I'd like to bid farewell to some players out of the spotlight and welcome a new class of potentially franchise faces.

FAREWELL

Allen Iverson- You were incredible in your day and a proven winner with miles of heart. While you weren't necessarily selfish, you never proved to make your teams better, and like Stephon Marbury you had too much pride to truly change your game. Thank you for your memorable role playing stint back in Philly this year, I wish you nothing but the best in the future just as long as you stay away from playing.

Tracy McGrady- After one game and a glimpse of his old self, T-Mac finally proved that his days carrying a team are officially behind him healthy or not. Never advancing past the first round with Orlando and Houston's only 2nd round advance was without him, McGrady will not get his chance to be the face of the Knicks. He still has the skill to be a valuable asset, just as long as ego doesn't get the best of him

Gilbert Arenas- I would say that this guy just can't catch a break, but karma has a way of turning nasty to shoot-happy big mouths who never lived up to his promise. The Wizards hopefully will rebuild without Agent 6, and I couldn't be happier

Kobe and KG- Okay, this farewell is very premature but necessary to realize. The Lakers and Celtics are getting older in a league of young deep teams such as the Cavs and Magic. Like the Lakers, Pistons, and Celtics of the 80's, their time is nearing its end, which is a shame because these two players and their squads truly have been incredible to watch. Dynamic, intense, so much legacy on the line! And then Kobe and KG suddenly are hobbled with injuries. They are finally mortal, and the young players smell blood in the water.

WELCOME!!!

Derrick Rose- The Bulls have tons to work on, but with Rose at the point they have a major building block. And the way the Bulls light up in the playoffs show they have crucial sparks to set a real fire in this league...

Stephen Curry-
I have a feeling the Warriors will go through several overhauls before getting the chemistry right, but keeping Curry should ensure a chance of playoffs sooner than the Clippers

Tyreke Evans-
You have proven your ability to lift a city's spirits and play fearlessly against the best(Kobe!). Granted it may take a while, the task at hand now is to make your team better. Good luck, the Kings aren't hopeless but another good draft must happen

Brandon Jennings-
Michael Redd is virtually gone. Bogut silently dominated, but Jennings has become the face of the Bucks and has made the franchise popular for the first time since their conference finals appearance in 2001. His talent may be very raw still, but Jennings will be important somehow in the re-emergence of Milwaukee

Danilo Gallinari-
It's almost a guarantee that Gallinari will not be a franchise player for the Knicks or any other team, yet his shooting and knack to switch styles on offense has and will continue to flourish under D'Antoni. Expect Gallinari to become a reliable compliment to the future face of the New York Knicks

Durant & Westbrook-
Both able to spot up and make plays against the best of em'. Opposing teams truly need two defensive stoppers to prevent this tandem from getting OKC moving, because once they do it becomes difficult to stop. Just ask the Lakers

2009-10-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

R.O.Y.

Honestly, to me at least, the only award prediction worth predicting. I say this for two reasons. The first being time constraints (about 30 mins 'til tip-off). Secondly, these guys are basically all on the same playing field; not in terms of skill set, but it's all their first years. Thirdly, yes thirdly, there is no clear cut front-runner momentarily. Most people believe either Blake Griffin or Tyreke Evans will take home the hardware. Clearly, that's not including Golden State's rook, Stephen Curry, who think, and has said, otherwise. I, on the other hand, believe the 2010 Rookie of the Year will be...His game is old school. His game is all around. His game is just silky smooth. He's Brandon Roy 2.0, on a better team than B.Roy had in '06. Harden's an underrated play maker and passer. By mid-season, you can guarantee he'll be the guy bringing the ball up the court for the Thunder. OKC's young and talented triumvirate of Durant, Westbrook, & Green will be the beneficiaries of Harden's excellent court vision, leading the way for quite a potent offense. Not only that, the kid can play some D!

Most Exciting Team on Court

LA Lakers (82-0, anyone?)

Most Exciting Team off Court

LA Lakers

Most Underrated Acquisitions

Rasheed Wallace and Ron Artest
(Look at that dome piece, talk about a team player!)

The duo are essentially perfect fits for their respective teams. Ron Ron gives the Lakers toughness, defense, and another scoring option. Sheed gives Boston another big body, who ,unlike their other big bodies, can stretch the floor with his range. I don't expect team chemistry to be an issue. These teams already have established stars who won't hesitate to put these guys in their place, if necessary.

Most Overrated Acquisitions

Shaquille O’ Neal

Who helps their stock for summer of 2010?

Everyone who opted out in 2009

Who hurts their stock for summer of 2010?

Everyone who didn’t

Eastern Conference Sleeper

Washington Wizards

They've added all around depth, size, and bench scoring. Anticipate a different Agent Zero this season. I think he'll take a more conservative approach to the game, and try to be more of a facilitator. Just remember, he can turn it on in hurry!

Western Conference Sleeper

Phoenix Suns

Expect a big year from free agent acquisition Channing Frye, who should flourish in Phoenix's uptempo offense. Also, expect major contributions from the rejuvenated Grant "Benjamin Button" Hill. Look for rookie Earl Clark to be Mr. Intangibles for the Suns, filling the void left since the departure of Shawn Marion.

The “I told you so” Player of the Year
(Runner-ups: Marco Belinelli & Spencer Hawes)

The Dwyane Wade/Ray Allen hybrid in a Baron Davis' body. Move over Rose, Mayo, and Beasley! World, make way for Eric Gordon! In 2008, Gordon was the L's most physically gifted rookie. This year, the soph is the most mentally gifted player in all the land! He may be the best shooter drafted since Ray Allen. He wreaks havoc on smaller guards with his B. Diddy-like frame. This in part, allows him to get to the line as much as Dwyane Wade (where he really makes you pay). Mark my words! Gordon will be a 50/40/90 shooter (if not better). He'll also be LA's first all-star since Elton Brand (yes, before Davis or Griffin).

Who Wins it All?
Orlando Magic

This is the deepest and most versatile team in the league! They could very well challenge the Lakers for the title of "Most Exciting Team on Court". Dwight Howard is the most dominant low-post defensive force. (Sorry, but Al Jefferson takes the cake offensively) Despite what Shaq may say, Stan Van For the Magic's sake, we can only hope their is a rebirth in store for Vinsanity.

"Stay Classy."
- Reggol B.

NBA Preview Part 1

2009-10-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

NBA SEASON PREVIEW CHAPTER 1: THE CONTENDERS
These predictions are immensely condensed, but the essence of this review will have its typical common sense choices and some surprises. As we prepare for a new season and we set our fantasy squads, let the Rappaport Report finally deliver its 2009-10 season preview. First off, the Contenders.

BEST OF THE EAST

Orlando Magic

The Magic WILL NOT RETURN TO THE FINALS. Don't get me wrong, the Magic are still a deep team, especially with the additions of Vince Carter, Brandon Bass, and Matt Barnes. J-Will? Ehhh nobody cares. But what will stop them returning to the big show is the losses of Turkoglu and Courtney Lee, who were both very good at changing and adapting to the pace of the game. Will Carter defend the way Turkoglu did? Can Shaq shut down the NEW Superman?

EXPECT: EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
HOPE FOR: NBA FINALS

Boston Celtics
The Celtics WILL BE THE TOP CONTENDER IN THE EAST. The only, and I mean ONLY threat is the King himself. Last year, the Celtics were in top form but they had lost their mask of invincibility. This year won't be about invincibility but about revenge. The Eastern conference crown is very much up for grabs and the Celtic Big Three know that with a new talent infusion they have every right to win it all.

EXPECT: EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
HOPE FOR: 2010 NBA CHAMPIONS

Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers WILL BE THE TOP CONTENDER IN THE EAST. Hah! Sounds repetitive, but seriously it's either the Celtics or Cavs this year in the East. Shaq will be helpful, but as much as he wants to win for the king, is he finally ready to take a step back? Will he ever? LeBron keeps getting better and the Cavs are close as they ever will be. Now is the time to strike, with or without Delonte West.

EXPECT: EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
HOPE FOR: 2010 NBA CHAMPIONS

BEST OF THE WEST

Los Angeles Lakers
The comparisons between Ron Artest and Dennis Rodman during his run in Chicago made me see the Lakers in a way I did not anticipate. The trio of Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman formed one of the deadliest threats to grace the court, while Jordan and Pippen formed one of the most dangerous offensive weapons for over a decade. This year the trio of Kobe, Pau, and Artest can create a potent offensive and defensive threat, create mismatches for most teams in the league. Plus, remember Artest with a championship caliber Pacer team? A hungry Artest is ready to play.

EXPECT: NBA FINALS
HOPE FOR: 2010 NBA CHAMPIONS

San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs WILL HAVE A LAST HURRAH. I have been a longtime supporter of Richard Jefferson and Antonio McDyess, two players who conveniently have finals experience to go along with Duncan, Parker, and Ginobli. The Spurs are as versatile as ever, and behind Duncan, the Spurs should have no problem finding their way to the top of the West. But only time will tell.

EXPECT: PLAYOFFS PAST FIRST ROUND
HOPE FOR: NBA FINALS

Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks are WAY TOO GOOD ON PAPER. But will it translate to on-court success? Shawn Marion, Tim Thomas, and whoever else joined the Mavericks this year sounds too good to be true. But as Reggol B. reminded me, the Mavs are reminiscent of earlier Dallas teams of this decade that included Nick Van Excel, Raef LaFrentz, Antawn Jamison, and Antoine Walker all in their career primes. For all that talent, the Mavs managed to fall in the playoffs. Still, if the ,Mavs find the Spurs in the playoffs, expect an amazing series.

EXPECT: PLAYOFFS PAST FIRST ROUND
HOPE FOR: NBA FINALS

COMING VERY SOON! 2009-2010 NBA SEASON PREVIEW

2009-10-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

"Get your hand off me and cut your hair, Booker T. We got business to handle!"- Hedo

COMING SOON! 2009-2010 NBA SEASON PREVIEW

2009-09-27T22:36:00.000-07:00

This flop of a trio was only a year ago. Who's gonna get fired, traded, and over-tweet this season?

The Return of Yellow

2009-09-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

PART 1 OF 2 PART SERIES

Coming Soon... Part 2 written by Reggol B. !!!

As the new season begins, new jerseys have also arrived and will surely lower the team popularity of the Sixers and the Bobcats, while nobody will really notice the Mavs adoption of their alternate as their primary.

Sometimes new jerseys signify new eras of potential success, while others may absorb a generation of failure(Denver!)

There was once a day when the Seattle Supersonics(RIP), The New Orleans Hornets, and the Atlanta Hawks all had yellow alternate jerseys. In all honesty, they weren't particularly nice nor that creative, but the yellow was a refreshing change from the overbearing shades of red and blue present throughout the league.

Those three jerseys have since been discontinued, but not forgotten! Recalling the days of the yellow alternate and their own championship winning heritage of the '90s, the Houston Rockets unveiled their first alternate jersey in team history by re-introducing yellow into their team colorway. No, it is not overly yellow like its predecessors, but its a piece of legacy and sophistication most teams have forgotten.

full video here:

Calvin Rappaport's List of Least Favorite Jerseys

Charlotte- Reggol B. disagrees on this one, but stealing Orlando's Lines and dropping their Orange away jersey just proves they are a team lacking an identity.

Los Angeles Clippers- Love their alternate, I wish they did what the Mavs did.

Milwaukee- Green/Red VS. Green/Purple. Both not great. But in the end....I'd choose purple.

New Jersey- Hard to change after the franchise had its best years in those jerseys, but I really hope RocaWear designs something new for the Brooklyn Nets

Philadelphia- No explanation necessary. They are terrible.

Sacramento- They should have never changed it in 2002. Period.

Toronto- Bring back Purple. Bring back lines. Anything but ripoff red.

Least Favorite Alternates

Detroit/New Jersey- The lack of effort in making these is unbelievable. Red jerseys to complement the 7 other teams that have Red jerseys. "OH, WEDDING IN HAWAII, REAL ORIGINAL!"- Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Sacramento/Washington- Overly shiny jerseys never work. Remember the silver Dallas alternate?

Toronto- See above.

They Tried to Make Me Go to Rehab...

2009-08-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

"Stay Classy...and out of rehab!"
- Reggol B.

I Had Nothing to Write About

2009-08-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Frankly I haven't seen anybody wear Iverson's sneakers in four years. So why does he have a new pair of signature sneakers for a season he may not even play? The answer? Sonia Sotomayor!

Close to a Deal!

2009-08-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

Somebody wants The Answer!

"Showing skin is for pussies! Tights 4 Life!"

As little faith as I have left in Allen Iverson, I'd really like for him to take this opportunity, wherever that may be, and repair his career. I have a great respect for Allen Iverson and early in my basketball fan life I staunchly cheered him on as he took the Sixers all the way to the finals in 2001. He makes brave drives at 34, his body refuses fatigue, and he has a swagger that remains unbruised despite a career of little team success. He sweats tough.

As little faith as I have left in Allen Iverson, I am sure that which ever team does sign him will be dissappointed. Iverson has lost my respect in so many ways and I have wondered privately whether he would even be considered a Hall of Famer without his 2000-2001 season. Great individual stats with no team success to show. The Sixers didn't falter too bad when he left, and the Niggets thrived without him. The Pistons were a disaster, however A.I. sticks to his guns and demands the right to play his game by demanding many minutes and many shots. Will this contract allow Iverson to transition into a supporting veteran player? Or will we be treated to an encore of solitary play accompanied by a suffering team?

On The Verge of Reconstruction

2009-08-17T17:59:00.000-07:00

"I totally forgot it was this weekend. I was just in Nawlins hanging out"

As we reach the part of the NBA calender where franchise moves are slow (Sonny Weems got traded...) and newly acquired rookies are slower (Hasheem Thabeet!), there remains major issues yet to be discussed. And the major issue I shall cover today is... The Power of the Franchise Player.

This season takes me back to the 97-98 season, in which the Chicago Bulls brought Michael Jordan back for one last run at the ring. With Jordan in the NBA equation for another year, every team no matter how youthful, talented, or both knew that there would be no upsets in the playoffs and no mistakes allowed. Only the fittest would survive the Bulls' dynastic venture.

That season, the Lakers and the Pacers were young and brilliantly diverse talented teams on the fast track to success, but in the post season the much more experienced Jazz and Bulls leveled the youthful playing field by encompassing a degree of willpower that only a certain team chemistry can achieve. Led by true franchise players such as Michael Jordan, Karl Malone, and John Stockton, Chicago and Utah had court commanders that demanded team excellence beyond all other statistical or financial means. They were ceiling-free stocks, empowered to rise and climb, reaching the peak of it all. And in the end, it is the willpower that determines the true value of the stock, for the best franchise players can end a season on their terms.

And then it was over. Jordan was gone, and the prize became that much closer to reach. The stakes were inevitably lowered.

Fast forward to 2009. The Lakers, despite their lack of 90's Bull character and mysticism, are repetitively compared to each other as the NBA searches for a new poster team. As of right now, the Lakers are that team and Bryant, once the scapegoat for professional sports, has dethroned King James by ending the season on his terms. The Lakers are the team to beat, Kobe is the player to defeat, and yet most other teams in the league don't sense the urgency of the moment. When it comes down to it, many must await the fate of two franchise players in 2010.

LeBron James and Dwyane Wade are the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Miami Heat respectively, empowering their franchises to the most success both have ever experienced. The Cavs and the Heat have tremendous upside, making both players easily comfortable right where they are. And yet, the flaws of both teams make the idea of Shaq'ing outta town sound tempting. How tempting? Nobody really knows, but with the exception of the Spurs and the Mavericks no other contender made a real move for this year. Celtics got Rasheed. Is that supposed to mean something? Clippers drafted Blake Griffin. Does he look like a franchise player to you? Please prove me wrong, Blake. Raptors need wayyyy more than Hedo, Magic need wayyyy more than Vince and Bass. Oh and the Cavs got Shaq, thanks for filling Big Ben's shoes, Big Cactus.

"With Arms Wide Open"- Creed

The reason why these moves sound insignificant is because they really are. Hype to fill the void of real noise makers, real game changers. These moves are like Gerald "Jordan Stopper" Wilkens and Ruben "Kobe Stopper" Patterson. HOT AIR. As mentioned before, with the exception of San Antonio and Dallas who truly beefed up their teams to face the Lakers, the rest of the league are determining either their chances to actually acquire James or Wade or find a way to benefit from the aftermath of one/both of their departures. Cavs team yard sale! Championship caliber pieces! Heat puppy sale! Get the cute one half price if you take his older slower cousin!
Or if they stay...which I think they will.
We have money! We have D'Antoni! Please play for the Knicks!
We have money! We have youth and Brooklyn is looking nice! Please play for the Nets.

If the media actually is right and players really are magnetized to NY for its commercial icon enhancement, then the future of the Knicks and Nets should get interesting one way or another. But inevitably they've placed their future pending on the glimpse of hope that LeBron James will Shaq outta Cleveland or Dwyane Wade will Shaq outta Miami. That's the power of true franchise players. While only one championship has been won between them, most of the league awaits their move in order to make theirs. So while the reloaded west duel it out with the Lakers, everything and anything goes after this season, the last season before the entire league reshuffles like in 98'.

Final Word- My original article was going to include Tim Duncan, Steve Nash, Dirk Nowitzki, and Chauncey Billups, all players who have certified themselves as franchise players that have made their teams extensively better with their presence. But as this season will only shine a dim light on Duncan and Nowitzki, Nash and Billups will have to fight...for their right...to paaaarty with the playoffs. And after the reshuffle of 2010 who knows who'll still be standing...

Final final word- The reason I question Billups this season is due to my lack of faith in legitimacy in the Denver Nuggets. They surprised the entire West last year mostly due to Billups, but the word is out and the best in the west did indeed get better.

Comedy's Gaaaaaaaandhi

2009-08-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

This post is long overdue, but better late than never! I'm here to show some heterosexual love to Aziz Ansari! Folks, it’s time to become acquainted with the funniest Hindu since Apu Nahasapeemapetilon! As of right now you can check out Aziz in Judd Apatow's "Funny People" as Raaaaaaaandy (That's Randy with 8 A's), NBC's "Parks & Recreation" (Thur. 8:30PM) as Tom Haverford, or on his very own "tumblr", azizisbored.com. Below is a clip from his work on “Human Giant”. Aziz actually helped write and produce the show which originally aired on MTV back in 2007. You’re guaranteed to love Nate Robinson’s performance as Shutterbug’s head honcho, Bobbe J. Thompson.
"Stay Classy."
- Reggol B.

BREAKING NEWS: Indy Star Turned Indie Star?

2009-08-13T22:29:00.000-07:00

You heard it here first, folks! Reggie Miller, the all-time Knicks Killer, will be trying his hand in film! "It's an independent piece", said Miller. The film will be titled The Homewreckers. Miller will be co-starring alongside his sister, Sienna. When asked what it is like working for Director Billy Walsh, Miller quipped, "Well, I've worked with a Walsh before and that went pretty well" (referring to ex-Pacers' GM ,Donnie). Once completed, Walsh confirmed he will enter the film into the Sundance Film Festival. "Hopefully, I can help him finally win a [explicit] trophy...if not, it's [explicit] Utah...there are [explicit] tons of [explicit] wives out there!"

"Stay Classy."
- Reggol B.

Road Trip Qu.S.A!

2009-08-13T20:54:00.001-07:00

Next stop...South Beach!"Stay Classy."
- Reggol B.

Cats' New Threads?

2009-08-13T15:16:00.000-07:00

http://www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2009/08/13/nba_20090813_henderson_card.nba/

"Stay Classy."
- Reggol B.

Deyell the Tool

2009-08-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

This marks my first "respectable celebrities doing stupid things" post. The respectable celebrity would be Peter Deyell (Above), and the stupid thing would be a certain phone call to AT&T's International World Care branch. It seems as if Mr. Deyell may just take himself a little too seriously. You're Robin, not Batman!

This morning, Peter Deyell was interested in adding a few international features to his account. Don't get me wrong, there's absolutely nothing wrong with that! However, after coming to find out the information he provided was unacceptable, he immediately reached for his "I'm a celebrity utility belt". The Boy Wonder went on to say the following: "Do you know who I am?...Fax?!...I can't fax!...I'm shooting a movie in Europe, that you're probably going to go see in a few months!...I can never fax, I'm always traveling the world!...The only reason I have AT&T is because they're sponsoring the film, if not I wouldn't have this service!...I wish I could take all these phones and throw them into a vat of chemical waste!...Do you know who I am?!...I'm booked on the Jay Leno show!...What's your name?...So I can say it when I'm on the show, and say how you didn't help me!"

Good thing Leno's new gig is earlier now. You won't pass your bed time, baby!

"Stay Classy ('cause we all know Peter Deyell doesn't)."
- Reggol B.

GREECE

2009-08-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

...it's still the word!

"Stay Classy."
-Reggol B.

Changing the New York State of Mind

2009-08-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

I’m from the New York area, and I remember those two 90’s teams which made it to the Finals. Names like Ewing, Houston, Starks, Sprewell, LJ, Marc Jax, Herb, Mason, Oakley, Smith, Camby, Ward, Thomas, Childs, and Dudley. Okay, maybe the last name isn’t anything to write home about. Nevertheless, just like the names before his, Dudley will undoubtedly forever be etched into the annals of New Yorkers’ memory banks. I truly hope there is a DVD collection out there, somewhere, of all the New York/Miami games during the ‘90s. Now, if there is this burning sensation on the left side of your chest I give you full permission to continue reading this post. If not, “X” out this link immediately. If the burning sensation is on the right side, then call 911. No, seriously…CALL!

For those of you who stayed, here’s a video to further pump you up.

I’d like to take this space to apologize. Apologize for not including Jeff Van Gundy’s name up there! The man was hanging on Zo’s leg, like a child! When was the last time you saw a coach do that?! Not even in 05’s infamous “Palace Melee” did either coach do anything remotely close to what Van Gundy did! I understand Larry Brown is old, but I’m pretty sure all Rick Carlisle did was stand there looking like his usual self…a stale version of Jim Carey. Forget Riles, Van Gundy was the best coach to ever grace the Knicks sidelines!

Yet, after searching frantically for Carlisle’s most hum drum photo opt, I stand corrected. He did, indeed, step in between the players that night. Still, I couldn’t quite possibly let Slick Rick off the hook that easy...

Now, to my point! The following are probably the most recognizable free agents of 2010. I’ll just about name everyone and anyone, because those are the players the Knicks are primarily known to target…EVERYONE AND ANYONE! It must stop, and I hope my insight will somehow, miraculously, plant a seed of some sort. The players will be divided into 3 groups: Honest-to-Gooders, Early Termination Options, and Player Options. No need to dabble in Team Options, because the biggest name with one is Josh Howard. Also, Kobe (P), Nowitzki (ETO), and The Truth (ETO) are never leaving their teams. Talk about killing three birds with one stone! Okay, here we go!

Honest-to-Gooders:
Jermiane O’Neal:
Kids, and Knicks, just say “NO” to J.O.!

Carlos Boozer
And the saga continues…

Ray Allen
Finally, there’s something to actually write about! Ray Allen is Shawn Marion 2.0, except he was actually on a good team. Wait, let me quickly correct myself. I acknowledge the pair has completely different games. With that said, he’s not so much Marion 2.0 as he is “The Shawn Marion Experiment 2.0”. Some team will pull a sign and trade with Boston to acquire him, because they just won’t let him walk, and he’ll get far less than he used to. How good he’ll be after his stint in Boston? We shall find out through Marion this season. Ah yes, one former all-star’s future salary living vicariously through another’s play. This is truly where amazing happens!

Joe Johnson
I like J ², but even with some solid parts around him your team is still the 4th seed. You’re not making it out of the East unless you’re one of the top three seeds. The 4th seed is clearly better than the lottery, but this is New York…we want rings and banners!

Tracy McGrady
Penny Hardaway 2.0! No, that’s insulting to Penny. T-Mac is Lil Penny. No, that too. T-Mac, you’re one of a kind…and not in a good way!
Shaquille O’Neal
Even at 38, landing Shaq would give the Knicks its first formidable true center since Ewing. The New York media and Shaq are a perfect matrimony. The Cleveland trade proves weather is no longer a factor, in terms of possible destinations, for O’Neal. He’ll get all four seasons and the Big Apple will get its Big Apple! So, why not you ask? Two words, four syllables, and an apostrophe…Mike D’Antoni!

ETOers:
Michael Redd
I honestly foresee Jodie_Meeks developing into Michael Redd 2.0. He’s a little smaller than Redd, but he’s from the same breed; a dead-eye shooter and 2nd round steal. In which case, the real Redd will get traded this season. Look, we’ve all come to the realization that Redd’s barely even All-Star. The only business he has being at All-Star Weekend is maybe participating in the 3-Point Shootout. Which he still couldn’t possibly win with Jason Kapono alive! Redd will face the music and opt-in. He’ll be 31 going on 32 by the summer of 2011. If it comes down to money, he’ll re-up with team “X”. Since they’ll be able to offer him the most after he fades into oblivion. Redd should hope the Bucks do him the favor of sending him to a perennial contender, as they did with RJ.

Richard Jefferson
Speak of the devil (that’s what his ex-fiancé’ calls him)! Before you can make an argument for Richard Jefferson, you must bear in mind the following: The Spurs have been/are/will be the best team he played/plays/will play for, and are far too smart an organization to let him go for nothing (even though that’s what they got him for). Considering that (along with the fact he’ll leave you at the altar), he doesn’t quite seem worth the hassle of even targeting.

Kenyon Martin
See Amar’e Stoudemire.

Amar’e Stoudemire
He’s Kenyon Martin 2.0 with a Helen Keller twist. Sadly, I have just come to that realization. Take into account the micro-fracture surgery, and the fact he plays with one of the top point guards in the league. If Nash leaves, or Stoudemire goes elsewhere, he essentially goes from being Nets’ K-Mart to Nuggets’ K-Mart. Need I say more?

Amar’e - Nash + 5 Years + Seeing Eye Dog = K-Mart...and a dog.

Yao Ming
Zydrunas Ilgauskas 2.0 (?). That’s if he even comes back! The 2002 Draft was not kind to its top two picks, or its lottery…or the League!

Power to the Players:
Chris Bosh
I love him, but it pains me to say this…Chris Bosh is Shareef Abdur Rahim 2.0. BTW, I love Reef NOT Bosh! Correction, I love the Grizzlies’ and Hawks’ Reef not the Kings’, Blazers’ and Nets’ one. First, let’s take a look at the similarities. Both started their careers north of the border, and had solid rookie seasons. Both are/were well capable 20/10 guys. Both have been All-Stars. Okay, so maybe those weren’t the most convincing of facts. I just think Bosh is too highly touted. I don’t think he’s perched atop the League’s upper echelon of Power Forwards. He’s more of a 2nd tier guy. This isn’t bad! Being a Pau isn’t bad at all! He has a ring! It’s clearly better than being a Zach Randolph! It’s just not a Duncan or Garnett.

Duncan > Garnett > Gasol > Bosh > Randolph > Medvedenko

Shareef Abdur Rahim - Knee Injury + Playoff Appearance = Chris Bosh

Huh? Hey! At least I didn’t call him J.O. 2.0!

Dwyane Wade
With Brad Miller’s contract expiring and Jerome James all out of player options, the Bulls have some significant cap space to make a run at the hometown kid. However, so does Miami. JO, Haslem, and Mark Blount all come off the books that summer. Even if the Knicks are a consideration, that’s all they’ll be. It’ll eventually come down to South Beach vs. The Windy City. Expect Obama to somehow be involved in Chicago’s recruiting process.

LeBron James
Last, but certainly not least, is LeBron James. As great a talent as LeBron is, simply put, he’s a self-glorifying prima donna. That’s the simplest way to put it. He’s great from a marketing standpoint, no doubt, but the dude is from Akron. That’s far from being considered a city boy. I don’t think he can handle the bright lights of Time Square, the constant pressure from New Yorkers to deliver, plus Mike Lupica AND Spike Lee. If you get dunked on at The Garden there is no confiscating those tapes. His recent string of immature acts has really turned me off to him. Plus, he’s either opting in or going to New Jersey/Brooklyn. As a result of the Vince Carter trade, the Nets have bought themselves some cap flexibility for 2010 and beyond. They can choose to decline the team options of such duds as Yi Jianlian, Sean Williams, and Chris Douglas-Roberts. As well as refuse to extend a qualifying offer to Josh Boone. In doing so, they gain more cap and roster space. Signing in 2010 will obviously put team chemistry on the fast track, but the Nets’ new Brooklyn arena doesn’t open until 2011. Knowing how LeBaby loves to make headlines, he most likely would rather be Brooklyn’s first big acquisition than New Jersey’s last.

In spite of all this, there is one big name which did happen to escape my wrath…Manu Ginobili. Here are the pros: Ginobili’s a winner (3x NBA Champ & Olympic Gold Medalist), he’d be even “funner” to watch in D’Antoni’s “system”, and he’s an Honest-to-Gooder. Now, here is the one blaring con: Ginobili is coming off an injury, which sidelined him for the playoffs, at the age of 32. It's clear age isn't a concern of the Knicks. We witnessed that first hand this summer, when they made offers to Jason Kidd and Grant Hill (each 36). Ginobili is still fairly young compared to the duo. It's more a matter of his mileage. Ginobili is a fierce competitor, and a noble conutryman. He originally sustained his injury while playing for Argentina's national team. This is what ultimately should concern the Knicks. My advice is to just say, "Show me the Carfax".

If it’s fresh legs you want. Rudy Gay could be your guy, NY. He’ll only be available if unable to reach a contract agreement with Memphis. Pending no agreement, Gay will still only be a restricted free agent. Signing him to an offer sheet may work in the Knicks’ favor though. Memphis is a struggling franchise, to say the least. I’m sure they’ll still be looking to cut costs. Not only that, I firmly believe the Grizz value O.J. Mayo more (which is ludicrous). Coming into the league, Gay had constantly been compared to Grant Hill. He could still end up challenging Brandon Roy for the title of best ’06 draftee. Remember, Gay garnered lots of attention and praise with his play during this summer’s Team USA Mini-Camp. Considering the organization’s growing financial woes, Gay’s asking price just may be too rich for the Grizzlies’ blood. Take into account not having to share the ball with Mayo anymore; leaving Memphis would seem like a no-brainer for Rudy.

If all else fails, I strongly advocate waiting until 2011. By then, Carmelo Anthony’s player option will have kicked in. Furthermore, Jared Jeffries and Eddy Curry will finally be off your payroll! Sign Anthony’s old college buddies, Hakim Warrick and Gerry McNamara, to sweeten the pot! And, Bing Bong Bong! ‘Melo becomes your marquee player, the face of the franchise! While just south of the borough, Queen James and the gang are setting up shop! Would you look at that! A rivalry renewed!

(Here are some more exclamation points just for the heck of it!!!)

Realistically, however, no one’s going to come to a team who lacks any reputable players. So first and foremost, re-establish whatever relationship is left between the organization and its current restricted free agents (David Lee and Nate Robinson). It is all but necessary to re-up those guys! Let’s bring some credibility back to New York basketball. C’mon Walsh, “DO THE RIGHT THING”.

"Stay Classy."
-Reggol B.

Too Little, Too Late

2009-07-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

For some time now, I have been meaning to write a post about Marco Belinelli. However, not so much entirely about him; but one coach Don Nelson. Cutting to the chase now, you shouldn’t have let Nelli go Nelly. Had I written this a few weeks back, as I had originally intended, maybe I could’ve somehow drastically changed the course of NBA history; but, as my post’s title says “too little, too late”. According to Yahoo! Sports, Golden State has just shipped off the Italian export to Toronto for Devean George. I officially “don” this week “Dumbest Trade Week”. Larry Harris played a hand in this for sure. I mean who are we kidding?! The guy drafted Andrew Bogut over everyone else in that draft! Today’s a sad day for me. Nelly, my love for you is headed exactly where Devean George is…waivers! Ladies and Gents, the Warriors are a little less potent offensively and the Raptors are a little more European (to the liking of one Mrs. Turkoglu). That’s all I have for tonight fellow Bloggers, and maybe for a while… Nonetheless, I leave you with this. Please, watch the whole thing through. I guarantee Belinelli won’t disappoint…and neither will the announcer.

P.S. DeMar DeRozan you’re free to be a bust now.

"Stay Classy."
-Reggol B.

The Fall of the Great Young Western Conference Point Guard

2009-07-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

The 2005 season was a turning point out West for the little guys. The year’s Draft brought us future Olympians Chris Paul & Deron Williams. The following year Portland traded for the rights to an electrifying, throwback, combo guard who quickly became the talk of town. In ’07, Williams took the Jazz to the WCF in a showdown against the eventual champs and Final’s MVP, Tony Parker. Chris Paul and Brandon Roy were named ROY of their rookie classes. Paul, Roy, and Parker have all enjoyed All-Stars success. Paul also finished 2nd in MVP voting to Kobe Bryant in 2008. It seemed these young, brash point "gods" were on top of the world, or at least the Western Conference. Who knew their fortune would run out so quickly?

Three business days into the ’08-’09 season Denver pulls off a trade to bring home Chauncey Billups for Allen Iverson. The trade paid huge dividends for Denver, propelling them from the bottom of the Western Conference playoff picture to being 2nd fiddle to only the Lakers. That means the previous year’s 2nd seed, Nawlins, had nowhere to go but down the standings. After an injury plagued season and a rescinded trade for Chris Wilcox, the Hornets finished with the 7th best record out West. Then again, every season is an injury plagued season when your starting small forward is Peja Stojakovic!
Fast forward to the first round of the playoffs…wait, is this really necessary?
2010 is looking good for: Chauncey McClutch and the number 58

Speaking of the ’09 playoffs, wasn’t it the Jason Kidd led Mavs who beat the Parker-Longoria led Housewives of San Antonio in the preliminary round? It was San An’s worse playoff showing in nearly a decade! Sure, we could blame their dismal performance on Manu Ginobili’s absence. We could also blame it on the goose! Point is, J.Kidd’s team won.
2010 is looking good for: J.Kidd, vodka, and voice changers…and Devin Harris

Speaking AGAIN of the ’09 playoffs, a new team crashed the postseason party this year (Portland Trailblazers). Which means a team from postseasons’ past was lottery bound (Phoenix Suns). Coincidentally enough, both teams’ star guards were due up for extensions this summer. Steve Nash has just recently accepted the Sun’s 2yr/$2mill offer, while Portland and Brandon Roy have yet to reach and agreement. If you ask me, I think the Suns need to give Nash the boot. Everybody wants to point fingers at former Big Cactus and the current Big Semi-blind Micro-fracture Surgery, but what about the little guy?! And as far as B.Roy’s well deserved pay raise, just remember folks, IN KEVIN PRITCHARD WE TRUST.
2010 is looking good for: Steve Nash, Robin FROpez, and Kevin Pritchard

Lastly, can D.Will get some sort of sense of teammate stability?! Seriously!
2010 is looking good for: Paul Millsap, Kevin Pritchard, and John Stockton…and James Caviezel for looking like him

"Stay Classy."
-Reggol B.

He Gets Around...In A Bad Way

2009-07-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

While I have berated the Knicks for years for acquiring Quentin Richardson in 2005, I have slowly wished for the day he either became the great player the Clippers drafted for (that was a long shot) or he would be traded and sent to plague another team with his bad shooting and even worse everything else. Today I was blessed for the third time this summer upon hearing the news that he was dealt to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Sebastian Telfair and forwards Mark Madsen and Craig Smith. This isn't even worth reporting to be honest, but this trade has solidified Q-Rich as the the newest trade chip for struggling teams. Whenever three losing teams trade you in one summer for noneother than other players of failed potential( that means you too Zach Randolph!) it means you should contact Antoine "Fatts" Walker for the number of the best retirement home.

Coincidentally, Walker passed through Minnesota and Memphis before falling into oblivion. However Walker left the league as a memorable Celtic, a championship with the Miami Heat 2006, and the "shimmy." Richardson is currently being sent from Los Angeles, where Don Sterling just finished betting on Richardson's old Clippers jersey on eBay.

But what does this once popular player bring to Minnesota besides a bloated contract? Career FG% 39.8! The T'Wolves are in need of shooting power since they dealt Mike Miller earlier this summer, and lucky for them Richardson will not help them in that department. I would put more time into this report, but the fact that I'm dedicating any of my blog to Richardson is contributing to his existence. One can only hope he gets traded to the Kings before the summer ends.

The Search for Stability: Knicks Still Clueless

2009-07-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

This article was started nearly three weeks ago, but inspired by Reggol B's last article I feel this should finally be posted.

Donnie Walsh and Mike D'Antoni used last year to fix a franchise that has been on a downward spiral since...well it's safe to say since Jeff Van Gundy resigned as head coach in December 2001. But even before that, the Knicks have struggled for nearly two decades to make good investments on players while remaining unwilling to properly rebuild. Now with a tropical blend of expiring contracts, uproven European players, and a select few bright spots of Isiah Thomas' GM tenure, the Knicks look for a strong season to determine their future.

While I'm proud that the Knicks are not making any big trades this summer as they prepare for the free market bonanza of 2010, I believe this upcoming season will trulybe a big disaster unless certain roles are filled....

TEAM LEADER: I was elated when Stephon Marbury finally took his Iverson'esque "look out for Number 1" personality and shipped off to Boston with the Dropkick Murphys. One big reason for the importance of his departure was the allowance of the franchise to find a new a face, despite it's lack of franchise players. Sadly, nobody stepped up to the challenge except Al Harrington, who showed M. Night Shamyalan Signs of brilliance only to be countered by months of Lady in the Water rippling inconsistency. The Knicks desperately need a role model, somebody who puts in the work in practice and makes David Lee look like he doesn't hustle enough. Nate Robinson of all people should know the importance of a role model, since he starred in Role Models and under the mentoring of Sean William Scott grew up and matured significantly.

DEFENSE COACH: Like this wasn't obvious enough. Every offense in the NBA has taken advantage of the Knicks' poorly crafted defense as much times as David Spade has made a bad movie. Too much to count! D'Antoni may be an Ace in the book of Offense, but he's an Ace-HOLE when it comes to teaching his team how to prevent a run by the opposition. Yes, that Ace-HOLE insertion was terrible, but not nearly as bad as NY defense. Case Closed.

6th MAN: Nate Robinson attempted to fill this void with little luck, as the Knicks must still search for their Shamyalan-ish Sixth Sense. I know talking to dead people/being dead and not knowing so would not specifically repair the Knicks' bench chemistry, but just maybe the ghost of a young Marcus Camby can teach Jared Jeffries how to self motivate. Wait, Camby isn't dead? Ohhh he's still a Clipper...well same thing...

STEVE NASH AS PG: Something tells me the run n' gun offense that made D'Antoni so successful had a large part to do with Steve Nash. If he wants to repeat the greatness of the Suns, the Knicks better throw BIG money to somebody other than Ramon Session. Don't get down that Jason "I Think I Love My Wife" Kidd stayed in Dallas, get your scouts around the world to find the next best thing. And no, the next best thing is not Ricky Rubio.

In closing, I'd like to take a second to explain the pure beauty of the picture depicted above. I'm pretty sure the Knicks won that game, but the confusion and mixed reactions are so varied that they just might as well have lost. Or maybe they're so stunned they won at all they only think they won and the game is still going on. Overall its just a perfect example of how far the Knicks are from the playoffs with Walsh and D'Antoni in control. Still.

Kevin Pritchard…the NBA’s Ari Gold!

2009-07-17T00:31:00.000-07:00

Ladies, Gentlemen, & Gaysians it’s the middle of summer. Jeremy Piven is back playing Ari Gold, and the “super agent’s” NBA counterpart is back playing chess with the rest of the league. Now look, I simply won’t sugar coat the fact that K.Pritch got absolutely spurned by Mrs. and Mr. Turkoglu. I’m more than sure Pritchard uttered these very same sentiments upon entering his office that day, “No e-mails, no faxes, no phone calls, no nothing. Simply silence, Lloyd.” Point blank, K.Pritch didn’t see this coming. No one foresaw Turkoglu pulling an ’04 Boozer. Heck, I don’t think I’ve seen an NBA wife flex so much muscle since Jackie Christie was all but suiting up for the Kings!

Here’s the message, League…Consider yourself warned! To the other 29 teams out there, you can thank Toronto’s “European feel” and proximity to Turkey for the domino effect which has, and will, ensue in oncoming weeks. Along with the Trail Blazers, there are essentially 2 other Western Conference teams who can beat the Lakers in a playoff series; the Jazz and Spurs. The latter of the teams have had a next to picture perfect off-season considering the league’s economic woes. Here’s my argument for the Jazz:

’06-’07 Season:
Utah makes it all the way to the Western Conference Finals, only to face a mirror image of themselves with minimum 3 more year’s playoff experience. Allah, San Antonio Spurs! Now, allow me to elaborate. Utah, up until this summer, looked poised to take the Western Conference’s “Blue Collar Team” Crown from San Antonio. The teams had a very similar make-up and Hall of Fame coaches. If Utah, not Portland, swings a Draft day deal with Phoenix they get their Ginobili in Rudy Fernandez. Such a move essentially makes the Utah Jazz…THE UTAH SPURS!

’07-’08 Season:
Despite passing on a potent bench scorer, the Jazzspurs make it to the Western Conference Semis only to lose to eventual Conference Champion’s Lakers 2 games to 4 (even though their wins weren’t impressive, neither were the Lakers’ 4). Those whom possess vivid basketball memory can also recall this Utah team being flawless at home. However…Kobe came to town and squeaked out a 3 point win in the closing game. Yes, it was a squeak. Utah was a tough team to come visit. I watched that whole series, mind you, pulling for L.A. It was sometimes too hard to watch. Enough said.

’08-’09 Season:
Due to early season injuries, this season can (and will be) classified as a disappointment. I mean these guys went from being the Jazzspurs to a team of Salt Lake’s local Elders. D.Will, Boozer, and Okur hadn’t all been on the court together until maybe a little after mid-season. All season long there were talks about Boozer, Okur, and Korver opting out. In spite of the injuries and looming off-season “departures”, they managed to make the playoffs.

The Jazz are a tough team, with good depth, great coaching, and star power. The Jazz WERE a tough team, with good depth, great coaching, and star power. This is where K.PritchGold comes back into play. The man, along with the help of the ALWAYS indecisive Carlos Boozer, has disassembled a franchise which was on its way to being a perennial contender for the next decade. Do you honestly for one minute…not even, for one second think Kevin Pritchard has any interest in Paul Millsap?! This move was solely to get a leg up on the competition. Pritchard has now pushed Utah to do something they didn’t want to. As a result, they must get Carlos Boozer out of town immediately. If for any which reason you or the Utah Jazz think otherwise. Kevin Pritchard simply says, “Think a’mothafuckin’gain!” Poor Jerry Sloan, Pritchard’s going to make him the next Bob Ryan for crying out loud!

With Utah left in the dust, Houston hurting BIGtime, Dallas adding another 13 going on 30 player, and Nawlins strapped for cash that leaves 3 teams in the upper echelon of the Western Conference to leapfrog: the previously mentioned Spurs, the Nuggets, and the World Champion Lakers. The Spurs have been, well, the Spurs this off-season (with the exception of the Haislip signing, I don’t know what happened there) and probably aren’t looking to make any more moves, especially with a Western Conference foe. As far as the Nuggets, I’m just not sold on this past season. They could be the Clippers from a few years ago. They had a nice playoff run, then finish right outside the top 8, and finally back to lottery obscurity. Okay, now that’s just flat out insulting. Even I, for one, can admit it. They’ll still be in the playoff picture. They’ve been the 8th seed year in and year out since ‘Melo came in to the League. I just think the Blazers can have their number. C’mon, I mean the teams did finish with identical records. Then there was 1…

There’s 2 ways to immediately and effectively hurt the Lakers this off-season. One option is a complete overhaul of Charlotte Bobcats. They seem to be the only team, besides the healthy Green Musketeers, who can beat L.A. consistently. Or…SIGN LAMAR ODOM! Every columnist and analyst talks about how they are just completely befuddled that K.Pritch has yet to extend an offer to Odom. Hello! The Blazers still have money folks and Kevin Pritchard is still their GM. All I’m saying is expect an offer. Heck, I don’t even need to say that. Expect the next big free agency move. And here’s K.Pritch’s message to Kobe, “Do you even know how fucked you are? I mean you are so fucking fucked. I mean I think you are the most fucked person I know.”

"Stay Classy."
- Reggol B.

It's been a while

2009-07-16T23:27:00.000-07:00

What can I say? I've missed out on writing about the two best seasons I have seen so far in my NBA basketball loving life. It's a shame, really, that I did not chronicle the triumphs of my Los Angeles Lakers, as well as the significant events that have made this lost time so pivotal. Referees' being called into question(and for good reason!), players seeking to prove their worth in Euros, and of course the ever-shifting dynamic of what it really takes to put a ring on a your finger and smoke a Red Auerbach cigar at the close of the season.

No doubt I will write the cliff notes of the last two seasons as we look to the future. I have a summer to catch up on everything basketball, and I will undoubtedly need help. As of this hour I have recruited senior basketball analyst Reggol B. to bring this blog into an age of sophisticated yet feverishly stylistic writing that is necessary in reporting. Welcome Reggol B. to the Rappaport Report!!!

And on that note I present to you the first official posting by the report's new senior writer. Take it away, Reggol B.

Good Night, and Good Luck

Calvin Rappaport
Rappaport Report Creator/Chief of Staff

Last Post of 2007: Part II

2007-12-23T23:58:00.000-08:00

Part II has arrived. You may be upset, you may be puzzled, but frankly I don't give a damn.

PLAYERS WHO ARE CHANGING THE GAME

1. KOBE "I AM LEGEND" BRYANT

Forget the milestone he happened to reach today, just recognize what he has done for the Lakers. Yeah, I know everybody thinks he is a selfish problematic player that has un-rightfully been proclaimed a franchise player, BUT YOU ARE WRONG. YES,YOU ARE WRONG AND NOT ENTITLED TO YOUR OWN OPINION. Kobe truly is the core of the Lakers' success this season. He put the pressure on Lakers front office and his fellow teammates to shape up, even at the risk of his own image in the league. Kobe does not care about his image, he only wants to win and will do whatever he can do so. This season, Kobe's points have gone down, but you don't hear him complaining or fighting with Jerry Bus do you? Nope, he has praised his teammates and has focused on his defense and play making abilities, which has ultimately made the Lakers a deeper team. This Lakers team has tasted the playoffs in the past, and their development this season will surely make them a threat come April.

2. Dwight "I AM GODZIRRA" Howard

Dwight Howard is an athletic freak. Extremely agile for a center, the new Beast of the East is abusing all the teams that have yet to improve their inside game. While the Celtics have become the team to beat in the east, and the Pistons have become the overshadowed but deadly threat, the Magic are a trial team that are will have to prove themselves through the playoffs. Dwight will fo sho embarrass other centers for years to come, and in the process expand on Shaq's Magic legacy.

3. Andrew "I AM 20" Bynum

His stats aren't magnificent, and his game is still far from complete, but I think it is safe to say that Kobe definitely has a complementary player in the making. Sorry Lamar, you're still important in the Lakers future, but you're about to be 3rd fiddled.

4. LeBron "I AM MVP" James

This season has exposed the weaknesses of the Cavs and the Heat, and its pretty evident that LeBron has playing every position for the Cavs and needs desperate help. Larry Hughes has been a flop, and Sideshow Bob and Pavlovic weren't ever really substantial relief. LeBron's attempt to carry the entire team has already got him injured and worn out, and if they make the playoffs it is unlikely that he can pull an Iverson 2001 playoff run and get back to the finals. But with James, you can never tell. Did you see him against the Pistons last year?

5. Chauncey "I AM CLUTCH" Billups

Billups' final play against the Celtics this week reminded me of Jordan's last shot against the Jazz. Billups was calm and collected, and in the moment of action he bamboozled his defender and seized victory. Thank god Tony Allen didn't hurt himself again, he tends to get injured when he does stupid things. Billups is leading the once all-mighty Detroit Pistons back into serious competition. They still hold their own against the League's best, and the consistent play of Billups has made him a threat to any team with a weak point guard. Seriously if Chauncey falls, he else in Detroit will pick up the slack?

6. jOSH "I AM GONNA MAKE THE WARRIORS PAY" HOward

Howard will be the deciding factor for Mavs come playoffs. Dirk's failure last year has silenced his performance this season, and it has yet to be determined when the 2007 MVP shall come back to glory. Until then, Howard has and will provide a shooting touch and play making skills for a team that will stop at nothing to redeem themselves.

7. Kevin "I AM OLD BUT YOUNG AT HEART" Garnett

KG is giving the Celtics everything they traded for and more. Telfair, Gomes, Green, Jefferson? None of them could have ever done what KG has done already for the once legendary franchise.

Last Post of 2007: Part I

2007-12-22T21:00:00.000-08:00

Every year around this time I find it hard to sum up everything I have discussed throughout the year. While I enjoy looking back at the past, I feel it would take far too long to gather all the news delivered in this blog. This 3 Part edition of the Rappaport Report will celebrate 3 lists of 2007. First off, 4 movies I think made 2007 great, and if you disagree, then you will wake up in a bathtub filled with ice and an organ missing. Then, 7 players who are changing the NBA as we speak, and if you disagree then you will be forced to watch the Knicks. The 3rd list will be shocking moments that headlined the NBA in 2007. Here's the news, here's Rappaport.

7 MOVIES OF 2007
*note- all movies are ranked with the 1-10 star ranking system. 10 is legendary, 1 is Gigli

KNOCKED UP- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 20/10

One of my favorite movies of all time, Knocked Up is a masterpiece that should be enjoyed by everybody. Using a difficult real life situation as the premise, Judd Apatow leads his cast of hilarious characters and creates an atmosphere of struggle and maturity that could be appreciated by all. But I don't want to break down why the movie was so good, you'll just have to see it yourself. My ranking system is flawless muthafucka!

JUNO- * * * * * * * * * * 10/10

A touching yet hilarious story that should reward Ellen Page with an oscar. While the situation faced by Juno is hardly an easy thing to face, Page's Juno bravely moves forward with life and handles her troubles the best and funniest ways she can. I know the awards are very flawed and have screwed over others in the past, but Juno's character was done with perfection and I hope she is rightfully rewarded.

I Am Legend- * * * * * * * * * * 10/10

Look to this movie to provide a scary look at the dangers of science and human engineering. Will Smith pulls a Cast Away Tom Hanks performance and vividly illustrates the strengths and limits of humans, while at the same time the viewers get a new sense of the value of companionship and contact. Long live Robert Neville.

The Bourne Ultimatum * * * * * * * * * 9/10

Although the plot didn't actually go anywhere conclusive for the final film of the franchise, the physical combat of the film shows that CGI is not necessary in order to deliver high quality action. This movie is force to reckoned with, and I can only hope Indiana Jones 4 can follow in Bourne's footsteps and not rely on CGI. Take a note, Rush Hour 3.

In The Know Zone: Thanks to Fan Support I am back

2007-12-12T19:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, America's favorite NBA blogger has returned after an unexplained absence. I will not go into details about my disappearance, but I will say that the support of my huge fan base brought me back. Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeere's RAPPAPORT!

First off, I would like to wish a classy happy birthday to Frank Sinatra, who will live forever in our hearts. Fly me to the moon.

Secondly, I would like to express my growing excitement for The Dark Knight, Christopher Nolan's sequel to Batman Begins that will come out probably this summer. THIS MOVIE WILL DESTROY MARVEL MOVIES AND PEOPLE WILL SEE WHAT THEY EXPECTED SPIDER-MAN 3 AND EVERY OTHER POORLY MADE SUPERHERO MOVIE. THE BATMAN STORY IS MULTI-DIMENSIONAL, AND I AM PROUD OF THE GRITTY AND DARK NATURE OF THE FIRST FILM. IF ANYBODY IS DISAPPOINTED AT THE JOKER'S APPEARANCE IN THE DARK KNIGHT, THEN YOU ARE A TOTAL DOUCHBAG THAT DOESN'T KNOW SHIT ABOUT BATMAN.

And thirdly, I learned today that Jessica Alba is pregnant. I am genuinely happy for her, not that I personally know her or anything, but I know she will not get fat and go crazy like a certain someone who I used like...

And now its time for NBA news-

Before I go into my analysis, may I say that my new dream is to go drinking with Kiefer Sutherland and Russell Crowe. I'm in need of a good Christmas tree jumping phone fighting extravaganza.

here's the link to Kiefer's greatest moment
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhB_3Jz0x_s

And now its time for some NBA news

THE CALVIN RAPPAPORT LEADERSHIP AWARDS- Given to early on team leaders of any shape or form

AWARD#1: The Green Musketeers(Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce)

Congrats to a team that has demonstrated that teamwork among superstars is very possible and fun. Have you seen these guys play? No complaints, no frustrations, these three have just lead this team back to the glory land with on-court hustle and smooth play. And on a day where the big three are struggling, the Celtic bench is so energized that they pick up the slack. Keep it up Celtics, you are the jewel of the East.

AWARD#2: Stan Van Gundy and the Southeast Pride

Ohh yeah, I'm talking about the muthafuckin' Magic. With the exception of Rashard Lewis and a less experienced Dwight Howard, Van Gundy has managed to turn an inconsistent team into a credible contender. Everybody plays their part, and I predict the Magic will not cool off like last year. Expect Magic from the Magic this year thanks to Stan, who's making Pat Riley look even worse than he already is. Gary Payton is jus lounging and enjoying a stress free season away from the Heat.

AWARD#3: The Lakers without Kobe

This season has been remarkable. When Kobe is down, the Lakers pick him right up. Derek Fisher and Jordan Farmar are playing their best, Vlad "I hurt myself doing stupid things" Radmanovic is making treys. Bynum is becoming a threat inside, and everybody is scoring so much easier allowing Kobe to help on defense and play making. Help Kobe, and Kobe helps you, and thats why the Lakers are winning!

AWARD#4: Fred Jones

Simply put, you are the only consistent player on the Knicks to play with energy. Jamal Crawford is energetic but wayyy too inconsistent. I'm a huge Fred Jones fan, and I hope after Isiah Thomas and Marbury eventually depart from the Knicks that you will still be there LEADING BY EXAMPLE. Sadly, the knicks have checked out early.

GET THAT STUPID GRIN OFF YOUR FACE ISIAH THOMAS

AWARD#5: Of Course, King LeBron

When he was injured, the Cavs completely fell apart. It was so obvious how many inconsistencies he filled for his team, and how without him the team would be battling at the bottom with Minnesota. LeBron is back, and so are the reloaded Cavs ready to kick the shit outta the weak Eastern conference.

AWARD#6: Manu Ginobli

I am not a Ginobli fan. Times I've seen him play have been filled with bad shooting, unhelpful defense, and bad shot selection that leads to bad shooting. Watching him against Dallas and Utah the other week opened my eyes to one of the most aggressive and motivated players in the league. Ginobli led the Spurs without Duncan, and it is safe to say that the Spurs are in good hands when Big Fundamental is down.

OTHER NEWS...

Jason Kidd trade rumors: Yes, out of respect to Kidd's years of unselfish play the Nets should trade Kidd along with their unmotivated fans and dull team colors. Kidd should ask to get traded after he reaches 100 career triple doubles, because it will definitely be harder to accomplish when he's on a team that actually rebounds. You did great things for NJ Kidd, but its not you its the team.

Fire Isiah chants: Yes, he deserves every single boo from the crowd at Madison Square Garden. Not that his termination will revive the Knicks, but hopefully the next general manager and coach will shed all the dead weight contracts that plague this team for years to come. Face it, the knicks are slowly going to have to waste out these contracts and start fresh, in the year 2019.

Penny Hardaway waived to make space for Luke Jackson: Yes, Riley finally came to his senses and disposed of the Allan Houston-esque Penny Hardaway, who glorified his already established failure of a career. Am I being too mean? Well fuck you and your sympathy for a guy named Anfernee. $LUKE JACKSON FOR LIFE$

And the rest is silence

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T23:45:00.000-08:00

I hope everybody had a feast fit for a King this Thanksgiving, what that means I don't really know, but I bet it has something to do with the way LeBron James is just embarrassing whole teams this season. Also, congrats to Nike for NOT having the 4 LeBrons in his shoe commercials anymore. Speaking of shoes, what the hell ever happened to And 1? Besides their summer tours filled will bamboozlement and trickery, they are not bamboozling or tricking anybody to where their smack talking shirts these days. Anyways, here goes my very popular Thanksgiving Day edition blog, returning due to high demand....
I'd like to dedicate this blog to the teams of obscurity, which include 10 year reigning champs the Atlanta Hawks, the Philadelphia 76ers, the Charlotte Bobcats, the Memphis Grizzlies, the Minnesota T' Wolves, and the Seattle Durants. Congrats to the Blazers for leaving this year after 5 years, we hope Oden will ensure you never come back to this list. Heres the breakdown, which I am forced to do in order to satisfy all my fan requests......

Atlanta Hawks-
Good play from everybody, if you continue to play this good you may become invisible. But I don't mean like invisible NBA threat good, I mean like a Kevin Bacon in Hollow Man(2000)bad! The Hawks have little fan support, and good players have come and gone for years because this team is unable to generate any reason for fans to care about the Hawks. The Hawks are kinda like SNL, they have moments of greatness, but in reality they don't allow some of their players to reach their full potential. Will Ferrel was great on SNL, but I am forever grateful that he left the show, and so will most of the Hawks young core be grateful when they leave this team. Don't sacrifice victory for flashiness, but please don't pull a Kevin Bacon. That goes for anyone, don't ever pull a Kevin Bacon from any movie. Footloose!

Philadelphia 76ers-
The Sixers are in a very delicate situation, in which they have to jump on Andre Iguodala's back and see where he takes them(Imagine Yoda on Luke's back). Of course, there are so few players that truly can have a team built around them, in which case Iguodala may or may not be a franchise player, but he still may play a pivotal role in 76ers future pending on his growth as a player. The Sixers right now are in that 2D square that held captive Superman's villains in Superman II, and lets hope the sixers future is not as horrendous as Superman II.

KNEEL BEFORE CHEEKS.

Charlotte Bobcats-
For a few years now, the Bobcat seeds have been planted, given proper care, and SMOKED. Teams have enjoyed Blazing the Bobcats, but this year the seeds have not become weeds. Puns, Puns, Big Pun, the Bobcats are no longer making Blunt decisions, and I expect this season to show vast improvement from the other seasons.

Memphis Grizzlies-
I will now compare the Grizzlies to the New York Yankees, two franchises with tremendous talent, and yet recently have underachieved to the point of no return. Memphis is so harmless, I wanna pet them and call them the Memphis Pandas. Hopefully Rudy Gay will be the answer to this sad sad team, and until he shines we can all laugh at Damon Stoudemire's weed at an airport story.

NBA: Where Jail Blazers happen.

Minnesota T'Wolves-
I will be rooting for the future trio of Randy Foye, Al Jefferson, and Corey Brewer. But until then, keep your head up Timberwolves franchise and take liberty in knowing that Juwan Howard is not on your team this season. Or ever.

Seattle Durants-
The Sonics unfairly put the entire future of their franchise in Durant's hands. Not only is he forced to grow up fast and battle the elite teams of the West, the Sonics may leave Seattle pending on profit gain or loss this season and perhaps next. Durant may not be the rookie Michael Jordan was at this point, but he's hanging in there.

Ouch: Teams that are as bad as Poseidon(2006)

2007-11-19T15:40:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated to the teams that made big moves, moves, or no moves, and still ended up sucking this year. If these teams were movies, they would be as disappointing as Spider-Man 3. Get it? Now watch this (snap, snap)...

New York Pieces of Shitterbockers- A warm welcome back for the Knicks, who made a big deal over the summer and appeared to have the most talent in a long time coming into the season. But right now they are 2-7, and while I put a major portion of my blame on Thomas and Marbury, they are not fully responsible for the lackluster play of the Knicks. In fact, many of the team are playing fairly well. Crawford is shooting, Curry and Randolph and dominating down low, Nano Nate and Renaldo are pumping life into the bench, and Fred Jones(long time fan) has been consistent throughout. These players are doing well, so whom makes up the anchor that pulls down this mighty ship?
David Lee this year is still contributing greatly for the team, but he is suffering from the limited time as he is playing a much larger role than last year. Yarr. Jared Jeffries, Quentin Richardson, and Jerome James are the dead weight. Their bloated contracts will hurt the Knicks long after their gone, and none of them have value worth anything close to what we're paying them. What's a cannon without gunpowder? Double Yarrr. Richardson was brought in for offense support and defense, and after 3 years I have seen little to none of both. Jeffries was brought in to be a workhorse, a player who can pick up the slack of any player and provide instant assistance. If Jeffries was a horse, he would have been the glue being used to repair the table my uncle fell through, as he has provided only a filled seat on the injured list. As for Jerome James, by this point he should just be made as a team bodyguard because he is so fat Eddy Curry is even laughing at him. Tharr he blows.

New Jersey Nets- I'm not sure what to say about this team, only that Nenad Kristic has to step up and VC has to return pronto. Excelsior!

Chicago Bulls- I know I beat up on them already on my other post, but I am genuinely concerned for this team. The Bulls are flat out playing out of sync, and while other teams are taking advantage of this Grizzly-like team, the play of certain individuals may change the face of the Bulls of the future. Ben Gordon and Luol Deng better prove that they can step up, or they may be facing contracts far lower than the ones they refused over the summer from Chicago. Kudos to Joe Smith, who plays well regardless of team trouble. P.J. Brown, smart move to sit out this season.

Miami Heat- Ohhhhhh Come On! The Heat signed Smush Parker, an early on sign that Pat Riley's coaching brilliance is not there anymore. The Heat didn't get Maurice Williams or Mickael Pietrus, but instead acquired quiet scorer Ricky Davis, who has not made an actual impact on a team his entire career. Oh, and how I could forget that Shaq is in more foul trouble than his entire career as a Laker? Riley, you just got served.

Minnesota Timberwolves- Yeah, we all expected this. But by the end of season, we will know who are the weakest links. Goodbye(Sebastian Telfair).

Golden State Warriors- Waarrrrrrrrrrrrrriors, come out and playyyyyyyyyyy. Seriously, Golden State will break out of this slump. How soon? Ask Luther.

Memphis Grizzlies- Give Rudy Gay the ball and let him take over as leader. Pau isn't a threat anymore, and its time Rudy has a Rudy moment. Hows Darko these days? Yeah, I didn't care either.

Niiice: Teams that seem to be on the right track

2007-11-19T13:14:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles Lakers - Kobe's supporting cast gets it this year. We've already seen Kobe have bad shooting games, and instead of surrendering to defeat, the Lakers have stepped up and won games. And just like that, Kobe is all of a sudden happy. While Chicago Bulls' Ben Gordon and Loul Deng have been distracted by Kobe's trade hype, the Lakers have united together like the Spartans of 300 and have become a force nobody anticipated. As long as the Lakers remain healthy, I believe the Lakers are back. THIS IS LAKERS

Orlando Magic - The sudden improvement of the Magic has left the entire Eastern Conference dazed and confused(The Nets dazed & Knicks confused more specifically). Stan Van Gundy took his dynamic duo notes from his days in Miami and found Howard and Lewis, which at the present are looking like magic while the fire of Shaq and Wade has burnt out. haha...

The Magic are playing so well the rest of the Southeast Division should just look to another division to beat up on. I personally recommend the Knicks and the Bulls, they're like the kids who are cocky because they work at the school library.

Seattle Supersonics - Ok, not really. Durant is impressive though.

New Orleans Hornets - Chris Paul has court vision, so much vision in fact that he should lend some to Stephon Marbury and Kirk Hinrich(Marbury is a lost cause, but wtf Hinrich? Your not worth the number I picked you in my fantasy draft).
The Hornets are like the The Magnificent Seven(1960), an assemble of guys from all over with different skills and issues. Chris Paul is Steve McQueen, Tyson Chandler, Peja Stojakovic, Morris Peterson, David West, Melvin Ely, and Bobby Jackson are the other guys. I wish I could remember that movie better...

Stephon Marbury: Failures Finally Recognized

2007-11-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

This is my first official post, and I have decided not to make an introductory letter or introduce myself because there has been too much news to report on my favorite victim team. The New York Knicks have once again fallen into a slump, and even after a promising start and solid hustle from maturing players, the Knicks are struggling every game and still cannot seem to find consistent team chemistry. Team chemistry is of course vital, and for years I have spoken against a specific player who has never lead a team, and more importantly has demonstrated that he does not deserve the lucrative contract his team is paying him. Who is this player? Stephon Marbury.

Stephon Marbury was the center piece of Isiah Thomas' dream of rebuilding the Knicks during the 2003-2004 NBA season. Before coming to New York, Marbury had already failed to improve three NBA teams, including having led the Phoenix Suns and the New Jersey Nets to two of the most dismal seasons in the history of both franchises. Yet Thomas felt Marbury would shine as a Knick, and that he would lead the team and orchestrate the offense and defense for the Knicks for years to come. Isiah Thomas would be gravely mistaken, and I believe he was probably dreaming of Steve Nash, who has developed into one of the greatest point guards in NBA history over the past four years.

Marbury would lead several different Knicks' teams over the next 4 years, and as history would have it he would have no success. At the start of the 2005-2006 season, the Knicks looked for leadership in new coach Larry Brown and prayed that Brown could work with Marbury to help him become a floor leader. As history shows, the relationship was a disaster and the Knicks were the worst team in the entire league. I don't remember exactly if they had the worst record, but if you watched them that year you would be astonished that a team can be so dysfunctional. Marbury's quarrel with Brown was one of the stupidest fights in history, as the struggling Marbury resisted Brown's game plan and refused help to become a traditional point guard. Marbury insisted on playing as "Starbury", his alter ego that shoots a low percentage and has low basketball IQ. But by the end of the season of misery, Thomas still supported his point guard and kicked the championship winning coach to the curb.

This season, the Knicks continue to produce a few promising plays of brilliance, which are quckly overshadowed by their inability to play consistent defense and coordinate offensive plays. Plays that should allow better shots to be taken by their shooters(Jamal Crawford, Quentin Richardson, Nate Robinson), and free up their big men for shots(Eddy Curry, David Lee, Zach Randolph). And where has "Starbury" been in all of this? "Starbury" has been whining about losing his spot as starting point guard(IT FINALLY HAPPENED) and has turned against Isiah Thomas, the man who has given him so much opportunity to succeed. Marbury has even threatened to "bury" Thomas with inside information that may be very harmful, as Thomas was involved in a major sexual harassment scandal over the summer.

Since this is my first post, I must admit that my writing is not well organized, but I hope to have clearly shown that Stephon Marbury's greatest achievement has been wasting the money of the Knicks franchise. His current value does not reflect that of his current contract, and because of his diminished value no team wants him. Until Marbury's contract ends(2 more years..), the Knicks can only continue to pull a 'Steve Francis to Houston 2007' play, in which a team brings back a hometown favorite(Marbury is a Brooklyn legend), pays the player more than he's worth(CHECK), and proceed to give him less playing time than the players with 10-day contracts. There is no other way...