Lebron James to Europe? NBA Labor Negotiators' Worst Nightmare

At 9 P.M. tonight, Lebron James is making his big announcement about where he will play next season.

Cleveland? Chicago? Miami? New York? New Jersey?

What about Europe?

Lebron once told ESPN he might play overseas for $50 Million per year. And NBA players should hope that Lebron chooses Europe for reasons far more important than just their chances of winning an MVP Award.

As most basketball fans know, the NBA collective bargaining agreement (pdf) is set to expire on July 1, 2011. Thus far, the NBA club-owners have taken a hard line stance, demanding that players accept a reduction in the current salary cap. According to NBA club-owners, they are losing money due to the down economy.

Irrespective of whether NBA owners are actually losing money, their demands right now are credible. If there is no other practicable place for top NBA players to work, the NBA players union will have no choice but to either accept the NBA’s proposed terms, strike, or seek to decertify the union and file an antitrust suit against the league (all undesirable options — each for different reasons).

If Lebron James makes the bold decision to sign in Europe, however, everything could change. The NBA club-owners would likely abandon their proposal for a lower salary cap because capped NBA clubs would struggle to compete for top players against uncapped EuroLeague clubs. Indeed, the very moment Lebron James puts on a EuroLeague basketball uniform, the threat of other players following him overseas becomes more credible.

While the thought of a star player leaving the NBA to help fight against the salary cap is unusual, it is not unprecedented. Back in August 1989, player discontent with the NBA’s salary cap (one that disparately impacted new players) led two young NBA players, Brian Shaw and Danny Ferry, to sign contracts with the EuroLeague club Il Messaggero (now known as Virtus Roma). Shortly thereafter, Il Messaggero began to court other top NBA players including Rick Mahorn (successfully) and Patrick Ewing (unsuccessfully). As a result, the NBA clubs simply agreed to increase their salary cap.

Despite the current down economy, there are probably a few EuroLeague clubs that could attempt to get into the action for one of the world’s best basketball players. For example, the Greek team Olympiacos Piraeus—winners of the 2006-07 EuroLeague championship—are owned by billionaire Greek brothers Panagiotis Angelopoulos and Giorgos Angelopoulos. The team plays in an approximately 15,000-seat arena, has already signed former Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Childress to a three-year, $20 million contract, and is seemingly not affected by the Greek debt crisis.

The Angelopoulos brothers probably could afford to sign Lebron James to a 1-year, $50 million deal—especially if they then streamed their games on the Internet to a worldwide audience (something NBA clubs likely cannot do due to the league’s New Media and territorial broadcast policies).

Likewise, Greece might make an interesting one-year “home” for Lebron. Unlike NBA players, EuroLeague players only compete in one or two games per week. This would leave King James a lot of time for personal travel.

Of course, this all presumes that Lebron is really willing to leave his friends and family to go overseas–a move that is rare among American-born NBA players. Indeed, just 9-15% of current NBA players have competed professionally overseas, and many of these players only did so when faced with no NBA alternative.

However, on balance, maybe the thought of Lebron going to Europe is really not so farfetched. We’ll see tonight.
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Marc Edelman, Above the Law’s sports columnist, is an Assistant Professor at Barry University’s Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law. He is teaching this summer at Fordham Law School, Seton Hall Law School, and Rutgers School of Law-Camden. His full collection of law review articles is available here.

This article appeared first on Above the Law.

Fantasy Basketball Dispute No. 5551-T: SportsJudge.com Court Rejects Trade of C. Billups for M. Ginobili & B. Haywood

SPORTSJUDGE.COM COURT OF FANTASY BASKETBALL

Index No. 5551 - T
Date Rendered: Feb. 2010
Date Issued: Feb. 2010
Dispute: TRADE REVIEW
Authoring Judge: MARC EDELMAN

TRADE IS REJECTED

The SportsJudge.com Court of Fantasy Basketball has rejected the trade of Brendan Haywood (C, Dallas Mavericks) and Manu Ginobili (SG, San Antonio Spurts) from Walking Wounded to Overhand Express for Chauncey Billups (PG, Denver Nuggets).

The trade has been rejected because it raised the following red flags for collusion: (1) uneven number of players traded per team; (2) highest ranking player moving from a team relatively out of prize contention to a team in prize contention; and (3) team trading the higher-ranking player is not returning to the league next year. Stated otherwise, this trade does not have a reasonable likelihood of benefiting Walking Wounded.

_____________________________________

Opinion No. 5551-T (Basketball), by Hon. Marc Edelman, Founder & CEO: SportsJudge.com

The general rule of the SportsJudge.com Court of Fantasy Football is to uphold any trade that could reasonably benefit both teams. See Big Red Rockers v. Big City Bombers, Index No. 101 (August 14, 2004).

In examining whether a team derives some benefit from a trade, the standard requires the Court to consider not only the quality of the players involved, but also the context of the trade. See generally Team Anadrol v. Vegas Baby & Flathead Yankees, Index No. 955-C (Nov. 4, 2007).

The reason for this standard is not to take away team’s rights to make independent decisions, but rather to ensure the sanctity of the game itself. See Commissioner v. Parkstarz & Fuall, Index No. 5287-T (Nov, 13, 2009).

Here, the league’s second place team, Walking Wounded (77 points, 2 points out of 1^st) has proposed trading Brendan Haywood (Yahoo! Rank 78, 9.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.1 blocks) and Manu Ginobili (Yahoo! Rank 44, 13.8 points, 4.6 assists, 1.5 steals) to the league’s seventh place team Overhand Express (51.5 points, 27.5 points out of first, 11.5 points out of prize money) for Chauncey Billups (Yahoo! Rank 8, 19.8 points, 2.3 3’s/game, 6.1 assists) ).

For Walking Wounded, this trade makes perfect sense both for this season and beyond:

• For this season, Walking Wounded gets a gigantic upgrade at the guard position by swapping Ginobili for Billups. Meanwhile, the loss of Haywood is largely irrelevant given Walking Wounded has several reserve centers of nearly equal ability to Haywood, including Elton Brand and Channing Frye.

• For the future, Walking Wounded gets a much needed second keeper to go along with Dwayne Wade. Without this trade, Walking Wounded would not have any other bona-fide Top 24 player to maintain for next year.

For Overhand Express, the trade makes very little sense:

• For this season, Overhand Express is unlikely to gain any points from this trade. While Haywood is a known asset in both the rebounds and blocks category, his addition to Overhand Express’s roster will mean a nearly equal caliber player will need to be moved to the bench, thus minimizing any gain. In addition, Overhand Express is so far behind most of the league’s other teams in blocks that even adding Haywood is unlikely to make a dent into that category.

• For the future, Overhand Express has traded away the team’s clearly best keeper, without receiving a keeper in return.

While this court attempts to afford teams broad latitude to make their own decisions, this trade seems highly questionable because the same team (Overhand Express) seems to obtain the overwhelming benefit of this deal both for 2010 and future seasons. Further, this trade presents three red flags that collusion here was likely:

• There was an uneven number of players traded per team (which is often used as a way to move a top player to a different team in disguise);

• The highest ranking player in this trade is moving from a team relatively out of prize contention to a team in prize contention (something one would not expect to find in a keeper league where each team can keep any two players without salary values being considered); and

• The team trading the higher-ranking player is not returning to the league next year (making it almost certain that owner is unconcerned with the long-term prospects of this trade.

For each of the foregoing reasons, this proposed trade is REJECTED.

Above the Rim: 0-17 and Counting

Will the Nets pass the Clippers and go to 0-18? The Clippers are always just assumed to be the worst no matter what record for futility you talk about, but the Nets are on the verge of taking one off of their hands. After getting crushed by the Lakers last night, 106-87, the Nets have tied the Clippers and will see if they can break the record for worst losing streak to start a season on Wednesday at home against a good Dallas Mavericks team.

Are the Nets this bad or have they just caught some bad luck? Looking at their roster, they do have some pieces in the place for the future. Point guard Devin Harris was an all-star last season when he averaged 21.3 points and 6.9 assists per game. This year, he has 15.3 points and 5.7 assists per game, but he has only played 6 games due to injuries early. Second year center Brook Lopez looks like he may join Harris as an all-star in the near future. The big man from Stanford is following up a solid rookie season by averaging 17.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, all leading the team. Chris Douglas-Roberts, another second year player, should be a solid starter for the Nets. This season, the wing has averaged 17.2 points, second on the team, and has added 5.3 rebounds and 1.15 steals. That gives the Nets three young, solid starters to build around. Rookie Terrence Williams has also shown that he is capable of playing in the NBA. Williams is averaging 10.4 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, mostly off the bench. Other Nets that should be contributors in the future are guard Courtney Lee and power forward Josh Boone. Lee was a rookie for the Magic last year and came to the Nets in the Vince Carter trade. Last season with Orlando, he showed that he can be a capable starter or a solid bench player for a good team in the NBA, and he is averaging 8.7 points this season for the Nets. Boone provides rebounding and physical defense in the paint, but he is probably better suited to coming off the bench. Offense is usually a bonus with Boone, but he is averaging 5.8 rebounds and .56 blocks to go with 4.6 points as both a starter and a reserve this season.

The problem with the Nets is the inexperience and inconsistency of these young players and a lack of veterans to steady the team until the young guys develop. Rafer Alston is a solid player, but he played above his head last year for Orlando. Ideally, he would be a back-up point guard and a sharp-shooter off the bench, but he has started 13 games this season. The same goes for Trenton Hassell. Hassell has been a solid bench player in this league for years, but he has started 11 of 12 games this season. While averaging 9.9 and 8.8 points per game, respectively, these two would be better utilized if they had smaller roles and could focus on that job. Another veteran, Bobby Simmons, is a decent bench player, but he has been declining for the last five seasons since winning the Most Improved Player award for the Clippers. Yi Jianlian has been a bust since day 1 in the NBA and is dead weight on the roster at this point.

The Nets could develop as the year goes on and be respectable by the end of the season, but they are probably at least a year or two away from pushing for a .500 record. In the meantime, they need to snap this losing streak and get a win under their belt. With the young team they have, that may take a lot of pressure of them and they could quickly improve. While the Nets are 0-17, they are not as bad as the record indicates. Look for them to approve throughout the season as the gain experience. With a few off-season acquisitions, this team could be a dangerous 7 or 8 seed next season.

Above the Rim: Summer League Roundup

The NBA Summer League finished its schedule on July 19th and some players caught the attention of analysts and executives around the league. Following is a list of players that made a good impression in the Summer League.

Anthony Randolph, Warriors- The 20 year old second year player had GMs gushing about this future superstar after he followed up three straight double-doubles with a 42 point performance. Randolph led the league in scoring at 26.8 points per game and added 8.5 rebounds. Randolph also averaged 3 blocks and 2.2 steals per game.

Adam Morrison, Lakers- The former Gonzaga star may have found the confidence that will help him live up to the potential he showed in college. Morrison averaged 20.8 points per game and added 42$ shooting from 3-point range and 89.5% from the free throw line.

Blake Griffin, Clippers- Griffin lived up to expectations as he averaged 19.2 points and 10.8 rebounds in five games. Griffin shot 50% from the floor, but did struggle at the free throw line shooting only 45.9%.

Stephen Curry, Warriors- Curry showed why the Warriors took him seventh in the draft as he filled up the stat sheet with 17.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 2.4 steals per game. Curry’s shooting percentages were disappointing though as he only shot 32.5% from the floor and 34.5% from 3-point range. Curry and Randolph’s performances added to the continued emergence of Anthony Morrow (24.7 points per game in the Summer League) bodes well for the Warriors’ future.

JaVale McGee, Wizards- Last year’s first round pick showed his ability to score and play defense as he averaged 17.3 points per game and 4 blocks per game. McGee also added 6.3 rebounds and shot 54.2% from the floor.

Jonny Flynn, Timberwolves- After a stellar season capped by his memorable performance in the 6 overtime game against UConn, Flynn entered the Summer League and averaged 15 points and 7.4 assists per game. Flynn was also one of the most efficient players in the league shooting 48% from the floor, 58.3% from 3-point range, and 90.9% from the free throw line.

Brandon Jennings, Bucks- Jennings was closely watched in the Summer League after spending last season playing professionally in Europe instead of attending Arizona for one season. Such a bold move was going to be scrutinized going forward as more high school seniors explore their options. Jennings responded by leading the rookie league in assists at 8.2 per game (tied with Marcus Williams) and added 14.6 points and 3.6 steals. While getting rave reviews for his passing ability, Jennings did struggle shooting only 37.9% from the floor.

Joey Dorsey, Rockets- Dorsey dominated the paint in five games averaging 14.8 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game while shooting 62.1%. Dorsey also averaged 9.8 points per game. Dorsey will have to stay out of foul trouble when the season starts as he picked up 6 personal fouls in three games and 7 in one other (players do not foul out in the Summer League).

Marcus Williams, Grizzlies- The Grizzlies are trying to resurrect the career of this promising young point guard. In the Summer League, it looked as though the project was ahead of schedule. Williams tied for the league lead with 8.2 assists per game, including 17 in one game. Williams also added 13.4 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

Above the Rim: NBA Off-season Moves

The NBA off-season started with a bang as the Cleveland Cavaliers acquired center Shaquille O’Neal from the Phoenix Suns, but there still might be one or two bullets (Carlos Boozer?) left in the chamber before the off-season is over. Here is a summary of the big moves so far.

Richard Jefferson, San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs traded for the talented wing after Jefferson spent last season in Milwaukee. Jefferson has shown that he can be very effective when playing with an all-star point guard (Jason Kidd in New Jersey) and that will continue in San Antonio where he will play with Tony Parker. The Spurs still have the pieces to win a championship with Parker and Tim Duncan both returning and healthy. Sixth man Manu Ginobli may be wearing down as it is taking him more and more time to come back from nagging injuries. With Ginobli deteriorating, Jefferson will step in and be the third option for the Spurs as they challenge the Lakers in the West. The Spurs gave up aging role players Kurt Thomas, Bruce Bowen, and Fabricio Oberto to get Jefferson, but RJ should be able to make up the difference as he helps spread the floor for Duncan and Parker and scores around 17 points per game this season.
Verdict- major upgrade; the Spurs gain a high scoring wing while giving up three veterans who are in decline

Vince Carter, Orlando Magic
The Magic traded Courtney Lee, Rafer Alston, and Tony Battie for Carter (and Ryan Anderson). After watching the Magic dismantle the Cavaliers in the playoffs last season, I think this trade will actually hurt Orlando, along with the loss of Hedo Turkoglu. The Magic were built on perimeter shooting, ball movement, and Dwight Howard. Lee and Alston both fit that system well and Battie was a solid back-up in the post. Carter will not fit that system as well because he likes to dribble and drive. That could make the Magic stagnant as it will slow down the offense and result in lots of players becoming stationary. Alston was expendable with Jameer Nelson returning from last season’s injury, but the Magic have now lost Lee, who was a promising young guard, and Turkoglu. Carter can score, but he needs the ball and that could take away from the rest of the team’s effectiveness.
Verdict- one step backwards; the Magic lose a young core player in Lee and Carter may not mesh with Howard and Rashard Lewis

Shaquille O’Neal, Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs finally pulled the trigger on the Shaq to Cleveland trade that was rumored at the February all-star break. Shaq played 75 games last season, his most since playing 73 in 2004-2005 with Miami when they won the championship and he should be motivated next season by the chance to win a ring with LeBron. However, the Cavs should not expect, nor do they need Shaq to match last season’s 17.8 points and 8.4 rebounds. If Shaq can perform at that level, the Cavs would be thrilled, but with LeBron and Mo Williams already in the offense, the Cavs should be satisfied with 15 points and 7 or 8 rebounds a night. With shooters like Delonte West, Williams, and Daniel Gibson, the Cavs should also benefit from Shaq’s ability to pass out of the post. The Cavs still have Zydrunas Ilgauskas to back Shaq up and split minutes, so Shaq may not see 30 minutes a game like he did last season. However, this will keep both Shaq and Z fresher and healthier for the playoffs where Shaq should give the Cavs a better match-up with Dwight Howard than Anderson Varejao and Z did last season. With this acquisition, the Cavs greatly strengthened their front court and added size that should help against Orlando, Boston, and the Lakers.
Despite all of these positives that Shaq brings, the real plus for the Cavs is what they gave up to get him. Subtracting Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic without gaining anyone might be seen as improving the team and at least could be seen as not getting worse. So to add a talent like O’Neal while giving up two players who would not have played significant roles next season is a major coup for GM Danny Ferry. It is reminiscent of Ferry’s trade last off-season in which he gave up Joe Smith and Damon Jones and received future all-star Mo Williams in return.
Verdict- big upgrade in the post while not giving up any value

Ron Artest, Los Angeles Lakers and Trevor Ariza, Houston Rockets
While both of these players were free agents, their signings virtually created a trade. The results should be interesting as well. The Lakers definitely improve in the short term with Artest joining Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol to make the Lakers the early favorites to repeat. Artest is more polished than Ariza, although a very similar player, and is an upgrade to the Lakers for the next three years.
However, Ariza is only 24 and could become much better than Artest by the end of the contract. A good perimeter defender with the ability to score, Ariza will be in his prime near the end of this contract and could become a star. Artest has probably peaked, and while he is a good player, there won’t be any more improvement.
Verdict- this deal makes the Lakers better in the short-term, but the Rockets better in the long-term. If Artest can keep his emotions in check and avoid the suspensions that have hurt him in the past, the Lakers should win at least one title in the three years of this contract. Artest represents a mild upgrade over Ariza due to his more polished game, especially offensively. However, the Lakers may have hurt themselves in the long run because Ariza may develop into an all-star. The Rockets, on the other hand, may not make the playoffs next year with injuries to Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady, but Ariza will be able to mature with Aaron Brooks, Von Wafer, and the Rockets other young players. When Yao returns and the Rockets use McGrady’s salary to sign other pieces when he comes off the books, the Rockets may be in a strong position to make a run at the Finals in the last few seasons of Ariza’s 5-year deal.

Charlie Villanueva and Ben Gordon, Detroit Pistons
The Pistons made a splash on the first day of free agency by spending $90 million on these two young players. Coming off a disappointing season in which the Pistons made the playoffs, but finished under .500 and were swept by the Cavs in the first round, the Pistons used their cap space to add two of the better young players in free agency. Initially targeting Carlos Boozer, the Pistons turned to Villanueva after Boozer exercised his player option with the Jazz. Villanueva will provide the Pistons with scoring and rebounding at the 4, but he will not be the banger Rasheed Wallace was. Villanueva is more of a finesse forward and is not as good defensively as Wallace. However, because he is only 24, Villanueva could grow into a more complete power forward and show he is worth $40 million over 5 years.
Gordon has already proven that he can score with anyone in the league, including Ray Allen in the playoffs, but the Bulls were unable to persuade him to stay in Chicago. The Pistons gain a shooting guard with unlimited range to plug next to promising young combo guard Rodney Stuckey. While Gordon can shoot the lights out, he is only 6’3” which can present match-up problems with some of the NBA’s bigger backcourts and Gordon is not very strong defensively to begin with. The signing also gives the Pistons three shooting guards (with Stuckey and Rip Hamilton) and no real point guard.
In these two deals, the Pistons sacrifice defense for offense and get younger in the process. Neither Villanueva nor Gordon will carry this team defensively like a Tayshaun Prince or Ben or Rasheed Wallace would. Also, neither player is the go-to-guy that can absolutely carry a team to victory. Both are good players, but they are not at the level where they will put a team over the top. The Pistons should see improvement, but they will not be able to catch Orlando, Cleveland, or Boston.
Verdict- moderate upgrade with defensive questions

Rasheed Wallace, Boston Celtics
This deal should help the Celtics depth, but should not be a very big upgrade. Wallace joins a crowded front court where Kevin Garnett, Kendrick Perkins, Glen Davis, and Leon Powe are already fighting for minutes. Wallace could provide intensity and perimeter shooting at the 4, but his potential contribution is being greatly exaggerated. Garnett will still be the starter, and Davis and Powe are productive back-ups who will also get playing time. While the Celtics did not spend much to obtain Wallace (just the mid-level exception), the signing will not put them over the top. If Wallace plays, it will take minutes from Powe, Davis, and maybe Garnett. If he doesn’t play as much, then his contribution is even more limited. Wallace does not present a major upgrade over what Boston already had, so it does not improve them that much to play him instead of their other post players.
Verdict- staying in place

Potential deals that could make waves are the rumored three team trade that would send Carlos Boozer to the Bulls and Kirk Hinrich to the Blazers, Boozer to the Pistons for Hamilton, and Boozer to Miami. I don’t think Boozer will be traded, but he could be the final piece of a championship for some teams in the league, especially the Bulls.

And Now You Know!: NASCAR HOF

Finally, the nominations are in for the inaugural NASCAR Hall of Fame class. How many people can you put in an inaugural hall of fame class? That is the debate brewing in NASCAR these days. The first class won't be until 2010 but with so many historic drivers in the last 50+ years, can they all go in first-class?

MLB had five in their first class. There was Cobb, Ruth, Wagner, Mathewson, and Walter Johnson. These five players received the required 75% of the vote to get into the hall. Lately, it seems as if only a few players each year are elected into the Hall as voters are very cautious who they let into the fraternity of brothers.

In the NBA in 1959 there was an inaugural induction class consisting of 15 players, coaches, referees, and contributors along with the First Team and the Original Celtics. Not exactly a list of the big names going in on the first ballot for the NBA, in fact the only name you might recognize is Dr. James Naismith. Every year the NBA lets in a half-dozen or so members as their Hall expands exponentially.

The NHL opened their doors in 1945 allowing 12 players to enter on first ballot along with two builders of the game. Of those 14members, it'd be hard to find one name that stood out amongst all others but at the time the NHL felt all men were worthy of the Hall.

In the Pro Football Hall of Fame it consists of more than just the NFL's short existence. The Hall of fame opened it's doors in 1963 shortly around the time of the merger. The inaugural class had 17 members some more prolific than others including Jim Thorpe, George Halas, and Red Grange, to name a few.

So that brings us back to the NASCAR inaugural class. Is there something to be said about being the first drivers in? Well looking back across the other four major sports in the United States, one would see that MLB appears to be the most strict when allowing members in and maybe NASCAR will follow suit. The nominees though are essentially the top 25 drivers of all time with the exception of possibly Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Tony Stewart?

From Dale Earnhart to Bobby Allison and Cale Yarborough or Richard Petty, the list of these top 25 drivers will all eventually get into the Hall of Fame so would it be wrong to put them all in right away?

And Now You Know! (And Knowing is Half the Battle)

And Now You Know!: Second Pick

I found an interesting stat online recently that depicted the drop off between the Number 1 overall pick and Number 2 pick over the past 20 years in the draft.

No. 1: 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists
No. 2: 13.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists

That really shouldn't surprise you when you have first picks such as Shaq, Iverson, Duncan, Brand, James, Howard, and most recently Rose. Your second pick usually consists of names such as Van Horn, Bibby, Milicic, Swift, and Aldridge.

Why is it that the 2nd pick is so hard to find good talent? The best 2nd pick in the draft could be Gary Payton? Kevin Durrant? Marcus Camby? Jason Kidd? Certainly names that we remember but not names that we would rely on to win big games.

Everyone knows about the No. 2 pick in 1984 with Sam Bowie and his career averages of 10.9 ppg, 7.5 rpg, and 2.1 apg. but why do the scouts struggle so bad in picking a top player 2nd? Everyone knows that Blake Griffin will be drafted first this year so the Grizzles should then act as if they have the first pick. Seems simple enough.

Hasheem Thabeet, you are the first pick... err second pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, let's see how you live up to the hype.

And Now You Know! (And Knowing is Half the Battle)

Kobe vs. Lebron: The Black Mamba vs. The Chosen One

[Editor's Note: As we put the finishing touches on another exciting NBA season (and another Lakers title), SportsJudge intern Bradley Parker wrote today's Sunday Feature debating whether Kobe Bryant or Lebron James is the best player in the NBA.]

To politicians, the term “Great Debate” often refers to a close presidential election in which both candidates possess great leadership, responsibility and a knack for demonstrating their personal strengths. This year, for NBA aficionados, the basketball terminology for “The Great Debate” can be translated into two names: Kobe Bryant and Lebron James. Both of these supernatural athletes share many similarities as well as their own individual style of play. They both share an insatiable will not only to be the best, but to win. Over the past few months, the NBA received a record number of viewers tuning in from all over the globe to watch these two basketball phenoms entertain to the fullest and dazzle us with their uncanny brand of basketball. Much like presidents, Kobe and Lebron are both positive leaders who will do all in their power to make their teammates (republican/democratic parties) better and win an NBA championship (election). But individually, who takes the crown? Who is most dominant ? Which one is the cream of the crop? Who is the overall better player? Kobe Bryant or Lebron James?

Kobe ~ The Facts: Back in 1996, with the 13th pick in the NBA draft, the Charlotte Hornets drafted a young Kobe Bryant straight out of high school. This draft included other big names such as Allen Iverson, Steve Nash, Ray Allen and Stephon Marbury, all of whom played college ball for top schools. Kobe was traded on draft night to the L.A. Lakers, a team with a history known all too well as being very successful over the years. There was not much hype about this 18 year-old skinny kid from Italy, but the name Bryant was a familiar one in the NBA because Kobe’s father Joe had played for the Philadelphia 76ers back in the 70’s. Kobe started off slow in the pros, only averaging 7.6 ppg and starting only 6 games. He had earned himself a reputation as a high-flyer by winning the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest in dramatic style. During the 2000-01 season, Kobe not only averaged a miraculous 28.5 points per game, but also led the Los Angeles Lakers to a Championship alongside star center Shaquille O’Neal. Kobe and Shaq would go on to win two more championships in consecutive years. The 2005-06 season came around and in a regular season game in January, Kobe left his audience in awe as he lit up the Toronto Raptors for 81 points, the second highest single-game total ever. He went on to average a personal best 35.4 ppg for that entire season.

Kobe ~ More Facts: Flash forward to present-day 2009. At the age of 30, many would agree that Kobe Bryant has hit his peak years or prime if you will. He has evolved from a pompous, self-minded offensive-oriented player into a multi-dimensional charismatic floor general whose unselfishness has distinguished him as the ultimate team player. He can shoot long and short, pass, drive and rebound and at the same time he utilizes the triangle offense and gets his teammates involved more than ever. But everyone knows who will have the ball in their hands when the clock starts to wind down, and the funny thing is, there is nothing anyone in the arena can do about it. As his career has shown, clutch jumpers are his specialty. And you can always count on Kobe at the charity stripe to knock down that game-winning free-throw. The best way to stop him is to find out what car he is driving to the game and fill the engine with sugar. Unless that is done, once he enters the building and the game commences, the opposition is at his mercy. Lakers Assistant Coach and one time teammate of Kobe, Brian Shaw said, “I have to say Kobe is the best. He’s been there before and no one can stop him. He’s the greatest one-on-one player I have ever seen.” In this year's Western Conference Finals, Kobe steamrolled his team past the heavily favored Denver Nuggets and into the NBA Finals for the second year in a row. There, they faced the Orlando Magic, a team who had the ability to knock down the three-ball at will and also go inside to their own bright star, Dwight Howard. After squeaking out a Game 2 win, The Lakers went on to steamroll the Magic in 5 gams and Kobe showed the basketball world that he can actually win a title without Shaquille O’Neal and reign victorious over the rest of the league.

Lebron ~ The Facts: The 2002-03 Cleveland Cavaliers finished with the third-worst record in franchise history amassing 17 wins and an embarrassing 65 losses. At the same time just a few miles from the Cavs’ Gund Arena, a young talent named Lebron James was creating quite a stir. As a 4-time varsity starter at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, James’ senior year saw his team playing a national schedule in cities such as Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Trenton and Greensboro N.C. Lebron even got a chance to play on national television as his Fighting Irish took an Oak Hill Academy team featuring its own bright star and future NBA prospect, Carmelo Anthony. James finished his senior year averaging 31.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 3.4 steals on the season earning him a spot on the All-USA First Team for the third time, and was selected as Mr. Basketball of Ohio for the third year in a row. He was quickly becoming regarded as a future NBA superstar and when the Cavs landed the #1 spot in the draft, there was no hesitation on who they would chose. The hype was tremendous, but the 18-year-old Rookie of the Year stayed humble as he took the court day in and day out and the Cavs finished the 2003-04 season with a 35-47 record just missing the playoffs. They improved by 18 wins from last season’s bitter play and it was clear that the Cavs would soon become a threat in the East.

Lebron ~ More Facts: Five years and many triple-doubles later, Lebron James is looked at by many as the best player in the world. A never-before-seen combination of power and speed, Lebron has the skill of a Kobe Bryant, size of a Karl Malone, and the basketball IQ of a Magic Johnson all rolled up into one...The “Chosen One.” Now take all of that ability and speed it up a little. Add some finesse to that Malone fade-away jumper, a little gusto to that Kobe drive, and an extra no-look pass for Magic’s sake and you are left with...The Future. As an opposing player, you know when you see number 23 walk over to the scorers table before a game and throw that powder in the air, things are about to get dangerous. And at 24 years of age, Lebron’s will to make his teammates better displays his maturity and unselfishness, qualities that only the great ones possess. “Lebron is the best offensive package I have ever seen,” stated former Washington Wizards Head Coach Eddie Jordan. “How can you be one of the fastest and strongest players in the league and then handle the ball like a point guard?” Lebron is also known for his tendency to create “and-ones” on a regular-game basis. He has the gifted ability to control his 6-foot 8-inch, 265-pound frame especially when confronted by a defender on a fast-break. Rarely will he commit an offensive foul because of his knack for contorting his body to avoid the defender and staying in the air long enough to get a shot off, plus the harm. That’s what makes him special. He has an arsenal of weapons and at times seems indestructible.

Lebron ~ Even More Facts: Lebron has also turned the Cavs into a major threat in the Eastern Conference leading his team to the 2006-07 Finals only to be swept in 4 games by the San Antonio Spurs. “Coming into that year, it was all about making the playoffs,” James says. “That was the main goal and to make it to the Finals was a bonus. This year, our team’s main goal is to win the championship.” Unfortunately, James will have to wait another year as a result of being knocked out of the playoffs by a surprising Orlando Magic team. But don’t feel too bad for him. This year was anything but disappointing. Lebron’s 2008-2009 campaign included winning the prestigious MVP award to go along with his first career game-winning buzzer beater vs. the Warriors, a 55-point outburst against the Bucks, a 52 point, 11 assist, and 9 rebound outing vs. the Knicks and a 27-foot 3-point buzzer-beater to beat the Magic in game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The shot is already drawing comparisons to the “Jordan over Ehlo foul-line shot.” “That shot was the biggest in my career as well as the biggest in Cavaliers history,” James said after the game.


Author’s Opinion: LEBRON JAMES! It’s a tough question to answer because Kobe is past his prime and Lebron hasn’t reached his pinnacle yet. But I believe that Lebron James is the better player of the two and my reasons are as follows: As history has shown, every NBA championship-winning team has had more than one superstar on their team. For example, dating back to the 60’s, the Boston Celtics had guys like Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, and John “Hondo” Havlicek. In the 70’s the Knicks had an assortment of stars such as Earl Monroe, Walt Frazier, Willis Reed and Bill Bradley. And in the 80’s and 90’s, the Lakers and Bulls had Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy and Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. Even more current teams such as the Detroit Pistons had leaders like Chauncey Billiups, Richard Hamilton, and Ben Wallace all helping to contribute to a ring.

It is of no coincidence that when Kobe won those 3 straight titles from 2000-02, he received lots of help from the “Big Aristotle” himself, Shaquille O’Neal. Since Shaq has departed from L.A. in 2004, the Lakers have made it to the NBA Finals twice, losing twice to Detroit in ‘04 and Boston in ’08. Many would debate that Kobe has 3 rings and if Lebron James is better, then where are Lebron’s rings? My answer to that insensitive individual would be, “give the guy a chance.” “He’s 24 years old for crying out loud.” “Provide LBJ with a Shaq-like presence on his team and then we’ll see who has more rings at the end of their respected careers.”

It seems as though every lone superstar (Kobe) needs a “sidekick” or “partner in crime” if you will to get over the hump and reign victorious. Now look at the Cavs. The team is made up of mostly young, inexperienced guys surrounding Lebron James. When the savior himself came to Cleveland in 2003, it’s almost like all the pressure was on his shoulders. He would have to take his team to the Promised Land. Well Lebron ignored the media and doubters and for an 18-year-old straight out of high school, that’s a huge responsibility and shows great confidence and maturity. As a result, he led his team to a major turnaround, making the playoffs five out of the last six years since he’s been in Cleveland. He even led the Cavs to the Finals in 2006.

Now flashback to Kobe’s first few years in the league. From 1996-1999, Kobe didn’t even start. His numbers were much lower than Lebron’s were his first four years. Lebron led his team further in his first few years than Kobe did even without a superstar at his side like a Shaq. If James keeps on excelling at this rate, I think he will be the best to ever live. When asked who is better right now, Kenny Smith of NBA on TNT summed it up by saying, “Lebron is definitely better. He has squeezed every ounce out of Cleveland.”

Also, Lebron’s overall game is much more diverse than Kobe’s. Kobe is a great player, don’t get me wrong, and I do believe that he's a better perimeter shooter than James. But Lebron can do a lot of everything. He has a plethora of tricks up his sleeve that he can go to when the time calls. Even his defense has taken major leaps and bounds over his short career. Lebron still has many things to work on though, to take his game up a notch like his inconsistent jump shot which would improve if he stops fading away as often as he does. Another challenge, according to HOOP magazine, is to become a more consistent defender and eliminate the tendency to revert to one-on-one basketball when patterns break down momentarily. If Lebron just works on some minor tune-ups over the next couple of years and comes back mentally and physically better, he will be virtually unstoppable.

So who is truly the better all-around basketball player? Valid arguments for both Lebron James and Kobe Bryant can prove that either one is the best. Whether it’s Kobe’s leadership and experience winning 3 titles back-back-back years or Lebron’s never-before-seen talent combined with his strength, smarts and quickness, one thing is certain. The future of the NBA is in great hands and at only 30 and 24 years of age, it is scary to imagine that both of these supernatural athletes can only get better. Like the Nike T-shirts read, “We are all Witnesses.” We are witnessing the dawn of a new era. One in which a revolutionary young basketball phenom is just showing signs of what the future holds in store for basketball fans. I personally can’t wait until next year when Lebron gets another shot at the title. Until then, as with any SportsJudge article, I encourage you to weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section. What do you think, who really is better?

SportsJudge.com PTI: Best Basketball Player Commercials

With Nike pushing shoes this playoff season with muppet versions of LeBron and Kobe, we were wondering where those commercials rank with some of the other commercials featuring basketball players in the past 20 years.

Adam

1) Michael Jordan and Larry Bird, McDonalds

This commercial was the standard for all commercials for a while, not just commercials featuring athletes. With two world class basketball players in a funny contest to decide who gets the Big Mac, it is still memorable. “Off the scoreboard, through the rafters, nothing but net.” Everyone was reciting those lines back in 1993. I remember playing basketball with my friends for a few years after that and we would always say nothing but net before shooting the ball. Jordan had many memorable (and a few forgettable commercials; like the Ballpark hotdog commercials), but his compilation with Larry Bird was his best, narrowly beating out his Nike commercial with Spike Lee (“It’s gotta be the shoes.”)

2) Gheorghe Muresan, Snickers

Muresan was one of the most entertaining pitchmen during the mid to late 90s while he was with the Washington Bullets. In addition to two hilarious Snickers commercials, he also had a classic SportsCenter commercial that featured him dancing in the office. The Snickers commercial that I think was his best was a “promotion” for a youth basketball camp that focused on Muresan trying to make a half-court shot with one hand and his back to the basket while saying “Score one for the kids” while a bunch of campers sat around watching him. As Muresan misses more and more attempts, the kids start laughing, prompting the gentle giant to yell at them. Of course, the commercial ended with Snickers tag, “Hungry, why wait?” as a cameraman began chewing on a Snickers. This commercial was much better than Snickers’ current ad featuring an overweight Patrick “Chewing” dunking on an eight foot rim, complete with boring dialogue. Twelve years ago with this Muresan commercial and another one where the 7’7” Romanian is pitching his own brand of cologne, Snickers had the marketing people to leave an impression.

3) Grant Hill, Sprite

Back when Grant Hill was a future Hall-of Famer and not an injury-prone role player, Sprite tabbed him to be their main pitchman. This commercial, featuring Hill dunking on a playground court combined humor with the perceived athletic boost that Sprite gave Grant Hill. The anti-“Be Like Mike” commercial, this Sprite ad was more about how the product would not make you better, but just tasted good. After watching Hill drink a Sprite and do a 360 dunk, the youth drains his Sprite can with a long-range jumper but front-rims the dunk and falls on his back. The look on his face was priceless, and the line “Grant Hill drinks Sprite” was another quote heard up and down the elementary school halls. Sprite ended the commercial with “Image is Nothing, Thirst is Everything” and their standard “Obey Your Thirst.” The ad was clever because it poked fun at the other ads of the day trying to get people to buy the product because of how cool the people pitching them were (like Jordan and Bird for McDonald’s or Jordan for Nike). Ironically, in their effort to show consumers that their product was good because it was good and not because some celebrity was using it, they still featured one of the best basketball players at the time in the commercials.

4) Anfernee Hardaway and Lil' Penny (Chris Rock), Nike

Another commercial featuring a superstar whose career was derailed by injuries, the Anfernee Hardaway-Lil' Penny commercials replaced a dunking youth with a miniature marionette of the Magic point guard. This commercial was at the height of Hardaway’s career with the Magic in the NBA Finals and Blue Chips, Nike thrust Hardaway and his precursor to Austin Powers’s Mini-me into the spotlight even more by constantly airing these commercials. Not only was this another oft-quoted advertising campaign, but Lil' Penny became a celebrity of his own, like the Kool-Aid man. Lil' Penny posters and even an action figure (available on eBay for $15 if you buy it now) were available to help Nike sell more shoes. Sadly, Lil' Penny faded with Big Penny’s career, but we still have memories of the trash-talking marionette. Chris Rock was the voice of Lil' Penny, only making the commercial better.

5) Charles Barkley, Old Spice

Before Old Spice began using LL Cool J and Brian Urlacher to show how Old Spice helped them overcome their pained pasts, their main pitchman was Charles Barkley. Casting the boorish power forward as a civilized archaeologist, among other different roles, Sir Charles showed how the deodorant could bring class to anyone, something that Old Spice is still attempting to do (“Behold, the Sword of Urlacher”). The ads not only were memorable and funny, they were enough of a pop-culture reference to be pitched in Major League 2 by Charlie Sheen’s Ricky Vaughn. Just remember, “Old Spice. Anything else would be uncivilized.”

Chris

For the most part, I agree with Adam's list. The Nothin' But Net Commercials were the best by far. I wish they would bring those back and have some more crazy shots with MJ and Bird competing for a BigMac. However, I think the Lil' Penny commercials were hilarious and deserve a higher rank. I would put Lil' Penny 2nd and the Muresan Snickers commercial third. Chris Rock is funny no matter what he is doing, but especially when he is the voice of a miniature puppet who awkwardly walks around. I rank the Grant Hill Sprite commercials are 4th and I agree that Barkley pitching Old Spice should round out the list.

Adam

The Worst of the Worst: Charles Barkley and Dwayne Wade, T-Mobile

T-Mobile probably figured that combining a legend with a big mouth and a current superstar would be advertising gold, and it was for a little while. But these commercials were never that great to begin with, certainly not enough to warrant the two to three year run they are experiencing. While one or two of the early ones were funny before Chuck let Dwayne into his “5,” they are now tired and monotonous. And doesn’t anyone wonder how the roles switched 180 degrees? Initially, Wade was trying desperately to get into Charles’s “5,” but now Charles has become obsessed with Wade. Initially this was a clever and funny ad (think Barkley calling Wade’s phone as Wade putts) but the campaign has peaked and should be discontinued.

Chris

Commercial I want to See: Bob Knight in a Chair Throwing Competition

The marketing potential of Bobby Knight is through the roof. If I were making a commercial, I would use the legend's temper tantrums. The commercial would feature Knight throwing a chair at the beginning of the commercial on the basketball court like he famously did when he coached for the Hoosiers. Then, Knight would be in a bunch of different scenes throwing chairs. For instance, he would be on a boat looking out to sea where his buddy is drowning after falling overboard. Knight could throw a chair out to his pal to save his life. I think a commercial that uses Knight's famous blow-ups would be hilarious.

Above the Rim: NBA Finals Preview

Kobe Bryant will lead the Lakers against Superman Dwight Howard and the Magic in the NBA Finals. While the Magic won both regular season matchups, the Lakers will win this matchup for the championship, cementing Kobe’s legacy with his fourth championship and first without Shaquille O’Neal. Kobe’s detractors will finally have to give him his due and Phil Jackson will finally have his tenth title.

Conference Finals
Eastern- Magic in 6 (my pick- Cavaliers in 5)
Western- Lakers in 6 (my pick- Nuggets in 7)

If the Lakers play smart defensively by not double-teaming Dwight Howard down low, they should win this series easily. However, if they insist on double-teaming Howard, the Magic will make them pay by converting wide-open three-pointers, much like they did in defeating Cleveland. The Magic shot over 40% in three of their four wins in the series. The only time they didn’t shot 40%, they hit 39 of 51 free throws to make up for the lack of three pointers. The Lakers should focus on shutting down Rashard Lewis, Hedo Turkoglu, Rafer Alson, and Mickael Pietrus instead of Dwight Howard. If Howard scores 40 points, but the Magic only hit 5 or 6 three pointers, the Lakers will win the game. However, if the Magic can combine a 25-30 point game from Howard with 10 three pointers, the Lakers may lose this series.

Point Guard- Derek Fisher vs. Rafer Alston
Fisher hasn’t had the best playoffs offensively, but he is a veteran with finals experience which will help the Lakers in this series. Alston is a offensive, shooting point guard who had 18 point and 26 point games against the Cavs in games 3 and 4 of the conference finals. Fisher has scored in the double figures in only 3 of his last 13 games, but he is a savvy veteran and will make Alston work.
Advantage- Lakers

Shooting Guard- Kobe Bryant vs. Courtney Lee
Courtney Lee has hit some big shots for the Magic and has played well, but he is out of his league both offensively and defensively against Kobe. Lee has hit double figures just twice since his sinus injury while Kobe has scored under 20 just three times this postseason (and has scored 40+ three times). Kobe can take over a game, and Lee does not have the defensive skills to cover Kobe. Defensively Kobe will shut Lee down and shouldn’t have to exert himself too much to do so. This will allow Kobe to stay fresher during games and be more of a force offensively. At times against the Nuggets, Kobe looked tired and the Lakers needed Pau Gasol to carry the offensive load. This round, Kobe should be able to stay refreshed and take over when he has to.
Advantage- Lakers

Small Forward- Trevor Ariza vs. Hedo Turkoglu
Ariza is a shut down defender that has come on in the playoffs. He has sealed numerous games with his defense so far and provides enough offense to punish teams for not paying attention to him defensively. Turkoglu is a good player, but highly inconsistent. He can both score and pass, but has limited agility and could struggle with someone like Ariza guarding him. In the conference finals, Turkoglu struggled when LeBron, another lengthy, agile defender, was guarding him, so expect more of the same with Ariza matched up on Hedo.
Advantage- Lakers

Power Forward- Lamar Odom vs. Rashard Lewis
While Odom may not start for the Lakers, he is going to see the majority of minutes at the 4 because he presents the best matchup defensively on Lewis, a quick, athletic power forward with 3-point shooting range. Odom has the quickness and size to matchup on Lewis, something the Cavs lacked when LeBron was on Turkoglu. The Lakers have a better mix of athletic big men than the Cavs and should be able to matchup better defensively. Odom may also be able to score fairly routinely against Lewis as neither player is known for their defensive prowess. If Odom can score 2 points for every 3 points Lewis scores, the Lakers have to feel like that is a win because Kobe will make that up against Lee.
Advantage- Magic

Center- Pau Gasol vs. Dwight Howard
While the Lakers will play Andrew Bynum here at times, Gasol will get most of the minutes. Howard is going to play like a monster in the post, grabbing rebounds, blocking shots, and dunking. To neutralize his effect on the game, the Lakers should concentrate on keeping him off the offensive glass where a lot of his points come from put backs and to drive at him to get him in foul trouble. When the Cavs were effective against Orlando, it was when they were able to minimize Howard’s minutes and aggressiveness by getting him into foul trouble. Howard is going to score 20+ points and grab 12-15 rebounds and that should be ok with the Lakers. Howard scoring 30+ per game shouldn’t be a big deal unless the Magic shooters are hitting a lot of three-pointers. Gasol should also have a good series as his range will force Howard to step out of the paint defensively. Gasol is one of the most skilled big men in the league, and while he can’t match Howard’s strength or athleticism, his passing and shooting ability will be able to counter Howard’s effect.
Advantage- Magic

Bench- Lakers vs. Mickael Pietrus
The only bench player that really matters for Orlando is sniper Pietrus. He outscored Cleveland’s bench by himself in the conference finals, but the Lakers bench is deeper and more effective than the Cavs. Andrew Bynum, Shannon Brown, Jordan Farmar, Luke Walton, and Sasha Vujacic all give the Lakers quality minutes and offense off the bench. Not only should they be able to match Pietrus’s scoring off the bench, but they will be able to keep the Lakers’ starters fresh while Pietrus will only be able to give Turkoglu, Alston, and Lee breathers. The Lakers have Walton and Bynum down low to spell Gasol and Odom, while the Magic only have Marcin Gortat and Tony Battie to play in the post. Walton and Bynum both have a wide advantage offensively over Gortat and Battie, and Walton has the agility to defend either Lewis or Turkoglu on the perimeter. Vujacic and Brown are both offensive powder kegs that can score in bunched if they get hit, much like Pietrus. Overall, the Lakers have more impact players off the bench and should win this battle.
Advantage- Lakers

The Lakers have the advantage at both guard positions and off the bench, while the Magic own an advantage on the frontline. However, the Lakers advantage at both guard positions is fairly wide, while the margin at small forward and power forward is almost a push because the Lakers matchup well with the Magic at those positions. While the Magic have more skill, the Lakers may be able to neutralize it. While the Magic have Superman in the middle, Gasol is an all-star as well and should be able to counter most of Howard’s offense. Off the bench, if Pietrus has an off game, the Lakers will have a wide advantage in bench scoring and will win that matchup.

Prediction- Lakers in 6, MVP Kobe Bryant

Can the NBA and NFL Place Teams in Europe? Exploring the EC Antitrust and 'Free Movement' Risk

With talk of the NFL hosting a Super Bowl in London, some sports fans are beginning to wonder if we will soon see U.S. sports leagues place teams in Europe.

In a recent law review article, Brian Doyle and I argue that before either the NBA or NFL could expand into Europe, these leagues would need to first abandon their age/education requirements and alter their reserve rules.

While the NBA and NFL age/education requirements might be legal in the United States, these requirements are much more likely illegal under Article 81 of the Treaty Establishing the European Community (the EC's counterpart to Section 1 of the Sherman Act).

The NBA and NFL age/education requirements likely violate Article 81 of the EC Treaty, even though the EC recognizes a non-statutory labor exemption to antitrust law, because the European Court of Justice defines its non-statutory labor exemption more narrowly than the Second Circuit did in Clarett v. National Football League, 369 F.3d 124 (2004).

In addition, the NBA and NFL reserve rules may violate Article 39 of the EC Treaty by preventing "free movement" of European nationals between teams located in EC member states.

To learn more about the antitrust risks of U.S. sports leagues expanding into Europe, please visit Marc Edelman & Brian Doyle, Antitrust and 'Free Movement' Risks of Expanding U.S. Professional Sports Leagues into Europe, 29 N.W. J. of In'tl L. & Bus. 403 (2009).


(Cross-Posted on Sports Law Blog)

And Now You Know!: It's Pronounced "Lee-ver"

I am simply amazed at this first round series between the Bulls and the Celtics. ESPN and all other sports outlets have made a huge hyperbole out of the first six games that game 7 will most likely be a 15-point blowout. And now that there are talks of Kevin Garnett pulling a Willis Reed things can only get more interesting.

The key to this series has been the point guard battle between Rajon Rondo and rookie Derrick Rose. Let's look at a few of their numbers:

This year Rose, as a rookie, did what very few point guards can do in a season. Rose had 16.8 ppg, 6.3 apg, and just 2.5 turnovers a game. Only 20 other players in NBA history have accomplished that feat. And how about what Rose is doing in the playoffs right now? Rose is averaging 20 ppg, 7 apg, and 6.7 rpg, something that only two other players have maintained over their playoff career.

And let's not forget about Rajon Rondo who is averaging a triple-double in this year's playoffs. Only one other player has ever maintained a triple-double in the playoffs with fewer than 3 turnovers a game while playing six or more games, that man was Magic Johnson.

But with all that said about Rondo and Rose, there is one man who paces these two men when it comes to all around point guards, assists, and lack of turnovers. His name is Fat Lever.

Lever was drafted by the Portalnd Trail Blazers in 1982 and played for three teams over an 11-year career. Lever's stats might not jump out at you as he never lead the league in scoring or assists, thanks in large part to Magic Johnson, John Stockton, Mark Jackson, and Michael Jordan. The two-time all-star did have three separate seasons though in which he had 18+ ppg, 7+ apg, 6+ rpg, and -3 tpg. Only two other players in NBA history can claim they have had those numbers (Gary Payton, LeBron James). Lever did it during three consecutive seasons while the other two players only did it once.

More impressive is that Fat is just one of three players to ever have 15+ points/rebounds/assists in a single playoff game, mind you he was just 6-foot-3. Unfortunately his career though was cut short because of a knee injury but many guards today still look to Fat as an example as an all-around complete player. Many players can put up the numbers on offense but are sloppy with the ball and accept turning it over 7+ times a game. Lever valued every possession and was one of the best at his position. His career in the 80s will always be overshadowed by the likes of other Hall of Fame guards.



And Now You Know! (And Knowing is Half the Battle)

SportsJudge.com PTI: Can Kobe Match Wilt?

[Editors Note: Welcome back to SportsJudge.com's take on Pardon The Interruption. On a bi-weekly basis, SportsJudge.com authors, Chris Stanley and Adam Primm, will take on a PTI-style debate about a topic of their choosing. Chris and Adam are friends, roommates, and Ohio State law students. This week, the 100-point game.]

Chris Stanley:
Adam and I have been discussing whether Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 point performance in an NBA game is within reach. Adam thinks the record is absolutely, 100% untouchable. After Kobe Bryant’s 81 point game last season, I think it just might be breakable.

100 points is a ridiculous number, but don’t let it blind you. Lets look at a possible scenario that just might result in a new NBA single game scoring record. Kobe’s 81 point performance was not perfect. In fact, he shot 28-46 from the field, and 18-20 from the free throw line. Kobe made 7 out of 13 three’s and took just over half of his team’s shots during the game (46-88).

There are several things that could have gone differently during this game that would have resulted in a 100 point performance. First, if Kobe had made every shot he took, he would have scored 125 points (18 additional points from three’s, 24 additional points from two-point field goals and 2 additional points from free throws). Obviously, Kobe will never put on a performance this perfect in his career. But just look at the numbers for a second. Based on the shots Kobe took during his 81 point game, he could have scored a possible 125 points. He would need to get 80% of those points in order to score 100. That would be quite a feat, but is it impossible? Maybe. Maybe not.

Also consider the fact that Kobe only took 52% of the Lakers' shots. What if the Lakers' game plan involved Kobe putting the ball up 75% of the time? That would mean 20 more shots, which results in 66 total shots for Kobe. Even if all of those extra shots were two point field goals, Kobe would have a total of 165 possible points. If he were to score just 60% of those points, he would have a 100 point game.

Kobe’s 81 point performance was nowhere near perfect. Also, the Lakers’ game plan likely did not involve Kobe shooting the ball any more than it usually does. I think Kobe could find a way to score 20 more points than he did during his 81 point game at some point in his career, allowing him to break Wilt’s 100 point record.

Adam Primm:
There is no way Wilt Chamberlain’s record of 100 points in a game will ever be broken. This is one of those records that will never be broken, like Joe Dimaggio's 56 game hitting streak. I feel this way for a variety of reasons. First of all, Wilt was absolutely dominant; no one could stop him. As awesome as the 100 point game was, let’s not forget that Chamberlain averaged 50.4 points per game in the 1961-1962 season (he scored 100 on March2, 1962). Wilt scoring 100 in a game that season is like Kobe scoring 60 in a game this season; both players would be doubling their averages. Also consider that Wilt set records for field goals made (36), attempted (63), free throws made (28), most points in a quarter (31), and most points in a half (59). This was easily the most dominant offensive performance ever in the history of the NBA and the circumstances had to fall just right for this type of game to happen.

One of those circumstances was the more up-tempo style of game in the early 1960s. The 1961-1962 season which saw Wilt average 50.4 points and 26 rebounds per game and Oscar Robertson average 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game was much different from the game today. In 1961-1962, teams averaged 125.5 possessions per game and 108 shots per game. In contrast, the 2008-2009 season has teams averaging 91.2 possessions per game and 80.2 shots per game. The significantly slower pace greatly hinders anyone from making a run at Wilt’s record of 100 points in a game. When Kobe scored 81 against the Raptors in January of 2006, the Lakers took 88 shots and the Raptors took only 76. Compare that to the Warriors and Knicks in Wilt’s 100 point game when the Warriors took 115 and the Knicks took 118. The Warriors also attempted 52 free throws and the Knicks took 41. By comparison, the Lakers attempted 33 and the Raptors 27. Wilt took 32 by himself in 1962.

Part of the reason for the high number of free throws was the mess that the Warriors and Knicks made of the fourth quarter. Wilt had 69 points at the start of the quarter and the Warriors approach was to feed Wilt every time down court. As Wilt was approaching 100 points, the Knicks began fouling the other 4 Warriors simply to prevent Wilt from scoring more. The Warriors responded by fouling the Knicks right away so they could get the ball back sooner. The final score of the game was 169-147, partially due to the quick pace of the game back then, but also due to the abnormal fourth quarter in which the score was 44-41, Warriors (the score in the second half was 90-79 Warriors). In today’s defensive game, final scores don’t total 169 points let alone the second half.

While I agree with Chris that Kobe has the best chance of coming close to scoring 100 points, there are many differences between his game and Wilt’s. Wilt played in the post and Kobe is a wing. That alone is a strike against Kobe. While Kobe can hit a three, Wilt’s shots were all within 10 feet of the hoop. Also, at 7’1” and 275-300 pounds, Wilt was the most physically imposing player in the NBA. To make matter worse for the Knicks, their starting center, Phil Jordan, was hurt and didn’t play. Second-year man Darrall Imhoff had the task of guarding Wilt who had 3 inches and 55-80 pounds on him. The Knicks' next biggest player was Cleveland Buckner at 6’9” and 210 pounds. The other two players who spent a good portion of the night trying to stop Chamberlain were both 6’6” and weighed 205 and 225 pounds, respectively. They had no chance at stopping Wilt as they were totally overmatched physically. Imhoff later stated that Wilt “stuffed us through the hoop with the ball. It didn’t even help we quintuple-teamed him.” The Knicks tried everything short of putting a 6th man on the court or unleashing Jeff Van Gundy to wrap himself around Wilt’s ankle while he posted up. Kobe is good, but he isn’t that good. If Kobe is triple-teamed, let alone quintuple-teamed, he isn’t shooting over 57% from the field like Wilt did. This is true for a few reasons.

First, the NBA today is so much more flexible in terms of defense. If Kobe starts making a serious run at 100 points, the opposition will shift to a zone defense that neutralizes the amount and kinds of touches Kobe is going to get. Second, since no team wants to give up 100 points, the opposition will do exactly what the Knicks did and start fouling other players simply so Kobe can’t score more points. While I think this is a bush league move, it will probably happen, and I don’t see Phil Jackson telling his team to foul back so Kobe can get more shots. That type of back and forth hack-fest could lead to a fight in today’s game and I think the coaches would rather avoid that. Third, Kobe’s quickness and talent simply can’t equal Wilt’s imposing physical stature. A bad night for Wilt that year would have been 30 points and 15 boards. That is absurd. It was arguably the most dominant game of the most dominant season ever. To say that Kobe could feasibly match or beat that record greatly underestimates what Wilt did that night. Teams are more suited to adjust their defenses to stop a wing player that gets hot than they are to stop a dominant big man. If a wing gets hot, you can play him physical, double-team him, switch to zone, or foul the other players like the Knicks tried in 1962. When Wilt got hot, the Knicks were quintuple-teaming him, fouling him (he had the best free throw shooting day of his career), and fouling his teammates. None of the tactics worked, Wilt was too big and strong around the hoop for the Knicks to be able to stop him. At his size, he was able to fight through these tactics. If Kobe gets quadruple or quintuple-teamed, he is not big enough to fight through and is more likely to pass out of it anyway.

Finally, the numbers don’t support the argument that Kobe can score 100 points. With teams averaging 35 fewer possessions in today’s game, there aren’t nearly as many offensive opportunities for Kobe as there was for Wilt. And even with the Warriors feeding Wilt so he could score 100 points, he still only took 54.8% (63-115) of the Warriors shots that night. By comparison, Kobe took 52.3% of the Lakers' shots when he scored 81. It isn’t an issue of getting Kobe more shots, it is an issue of speeding up the pace of the game so there are more shots in general. Finally, Kobe’s 81 point performance is the closest anyone has come to Wilt’s 100. If you look at this closer, you will see that the closest is still only 81% of the total. Despite scoring over 80, Kobe still needed another full quarter at his current pace to match Wilt.

The last reason that Wilt’s record will not be broken is because the Knicks didn’t see anything out of the ordinary with Wilt having 41 points at halftime. Wilt stated that he routinely had halves of 30 or 35 points and had scored over 60 points in a game on 32 previous occasions, so the Knicks did not see a need to adjust to him at halftime. However, if anyone scored 41 points in a half in today’s game, you can guarantee the entire conversation at halftime is how to stop that one player. When Wilt scored 100, it was the perfect storm of a physically dominant player against a team shorthanded by injury. Aiding the abnormalities was the up tempo pace of the game, the ridiculousness of the 4th quarter, and the “sneaky” aspect of Chamberlain “quietly” scoring 41 points in the first half. This presents too many factors that would have to fall perfectly for Kobe or anyone else to make a run at the record. Even if all of these things happened, Kobe would still have to shoot close to 60% and fight through the different defenses that the opposition would throw at him to make a run at the record. It is too much to overcome.

Above the Rim: Playoff Preview

With three 62 win teams this season in the NBA, the Finals appear to be shaping up for an epic battle. We are either looking at a rematch of the 62 win Celtics and the 65 win Lakers or a showdown of LeBron and the 66 win Cavaliers and Kobe and the Lakers. The road to get to this showdown should be entertaining as well. In the West, all 8 seeds have won at least 48 games with six teams winning 50. While the East is not as deep and balanced, the field is stronger than past years with 7 (which is actually an improvement over past years) teams finishing .500 and two 60 win teams. The top three seeds, Cleveland, Boston, and Orlando, should give us round after round of titanic clashes to keep our interest high for the NBA’s grueling 40 games in 40 nights marathon.

Eastern Conference
Cavaliers (1) v. Pistons (8)- Cavs win season series 3-1; series 1-0 Cavaliers
The Cavaliers are the front-runner coming out of the Eastern Conference. After enduring injuries to 3 starters this season, the team is finally 100% heading into the playoffs as Ben Wallace returned for Game 1 against the Pistons. The Cavs may be the deepest team in the East with starters LeBron James (28.4 points per game), Mo Williams (17.8 ppg), Zydrunas Ilgauskas (12.9 ppg), Delonte West (11.7 ppg), and Anderson Varejao (8.6 ppg) all contributing at both ends of the court. Off the bench, the Cavs add Daniel Gibson (7.8 ppg), Wally Szczerbiak (7 ppg), Joe Smith (6.5 ppg), and Sasha Pavlovic (4.6 ppg) to provide scoring and perimeter shooting as well as Ben Wallace and Darnell Jackson for rebounding and toughness. Put it all together and you get the best record in the NBA as well as the league’s best defense, finishing first in opponent’s points per game, first in opponent’s FG% and first in opponent’s 3-point %. By scoring 100.3 points per game on offense, the Cavs also have the league’s widest margin of victory. Finally, with a 39-2 record at home and home-court advantage throughout the playoffs, it will be difficult to knock the Cavs off.
Detroit is definitely not the team that can beat the Cavs. The Cavs have won the last 3 games between the two teams leading into the playoffs and held the Pistons to 80 points or less in all three games, which they managed to top with 84 in game 1. Although the Pistons have made the last 5 Conference Championship series, that streak will end this season. Richard Hamilton (18.3 ppg), Tayshaun Prince (14.2 ppg), and Rodney Stuckey (13.4 ppg) could score enough to steal a game in Detroit, but the aging Antonio McDyess and the volatile Rasheed Wallace will be ineffective in this series against the Cavs depth and versatility in the post. For Detroit, this series will give Stuckey and Bynum some experience that might help the Pistons rebound back to contention next season.
Prediction- Cavs in 5; the Pistons will win one game in Detroit, but this series will not be close. The most entertaining things to watch for in this series will be LeBron’s highlight reel and the countdown for a Rasheed Wallace technical (I’m predicting at least 2).

Celtics (2) v. Bulls (7)- Boston wins season 2-1; series 1-0 Bulls
The Bulls are a very dangerous team heading into the playoffs. They remade their entire team with some trades in February and the team has been pretty hot since then. The Bulls went 5-1 in April and then knocked off the Celtics in overtime to open their playoff series. Since the trade, the Bulls have become much deeper and are one of the better offensive teams in the Eastern Conference by averaging over 102 points per game. Shooting Guard Ben Gordon leads the way with 20.7 points per game. Acquisitions John Salmons (18.3 ppg) and Brad Miller (11.8 ppg) have blended well with holdovers like Gordon, Rookie of the Year candidate Derrick Rose (16.8 ppg), the much improved Tyrus Thomas (10.9) and back-up guard Kirk Hinrich (10.4 ppg). Big man Joakim Noah contributes 9.9 ppg and energetic play on defense and on the offensive boards.
The Bulls new found depth counters the Celtics shrinking roster. Kevin Garnett missing this series is going to hurt the Celtics a lot more than most people think. They needed his toughness, both physically and mentally, to compete with Miller, Thomas, and Noah down low. While Glen Davis is skilled, when things don’t go right, he can get frustrated very easily and get taken out of his game. The Celtics are going to need huge series from stars Paul Pierce (20.5 ppg) and Ray Allen (15.8 ppg) to hang with the Bulls. Other starters Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins will need to step up their games to counter offensive output of the Bulls. Bench players Eddie House and Leon Powe will also be big in this series. House is the third guard in the Celtics rotation. If he plays well, the Celtics should be able to play with the Bulls dynamic backcourt. If House has a poor series, then Gordon, Rose, and Hinrich could really hurt the Celtics by outscoring Allen and Rondo. Powe will need to be big to make up for the loss of Garnett in the post. Despite the Celtics winning 62 games this season, this series is very dangerous for Boston. The Bulls beat Boston 127-121 the only time they played since the trade. Garnett also missed that game. This series looks exactly the same with the Bulls playing well with their new rotation and the Celtics thin with Garnett hurt.
Prediction- Bulls in 6; this will be the upset of the playoffs. The Bulls will take advantage of the absence of Garnett. In the second round, the Bulls will push the Cavs more than any team in the East before losing.

Magic (3) v. 76ers (6)- Orlando wins season 3-0; series 1-0 Sixers
This is one of the more lopsided matchups in the playoffs. The Magic, with Dwight Howard and awesome 3-point shooting, against the Sixers, whose best post player is Samuel Dalembert and one of the worst 3-point shooting teams in the league.
Even with PG Jameer Nelson out, the Magic still have Howard (20.6 points per game), Rashard Lewis (17.7 ppg and 39.7% from 3-point range), Hedo Turkoglu (16.8 ppg and 35.6% from three), and Rafer Alston (12 ppg and 31.7% from 3). After those four, role players Mickael Pietrus, Courtney Lee, JJ Redick, Keith Bogans, and Anthony Johnson all average between 4.8 and 9.4 ppg and shoot between 33.3% and 40.4% from three point range. That depth will give the 76ers fits in this series. With Howard’s rebounding and shot-blocking and the Magic averaging 101.1 points per game, the Magic are one of the more complete and dangerous teams in the playoffs.
On the other side, The Sixers shoot only 31.8% from three-point range as a team with veteran backup Donyell Marshall (45.5%) the only player shooting over 35%. Also, while Dalembert blocks 1.8 shots per game, his 6.4 points per game is not going to come close to matching Howard’s production and he will not be able to contain Howard defensively. The Sixers will rely on the shooting and penetration of Andre Iguodala (18.8 points per game), Andre Miller (16.3 ppg), Thaddeus Young (15.3 ppg) and Louis Williams (12.8 ppg). The good news for the Sixers is that all four of these players are capable of scoring consistently and that their versatility on the perimeter may contain the Magic’s abundance of shooters. Also, although the Magic won all three matchups this season, 2 in Philadelphia, the margins were 10, 6, and 2, so the Sixers were able to keep the games close. However, the Sixers lost 6 in a row in April before beating the Cavs’ 2nd and 3rd string in the season finale to back into the playoffs.
In this series, the Sixers need to contain the outside shooting of the Magic and get a lot of scoring from Miller, Iguodala, Young, and Williams to win. Howard is going to average at least 22 points, 14 rebounds, and a few blocks no matter how well Dalembert can guard him. The key will be to keep Howard from going for 35-15 on a consistent basis.
Prediction- Magic in 6; if the Sixers can keep games close and not rely on three pointers to get back in the game, they should be able to extend the series. (after writing this article, I saw that the Sixers took game 1, 100-98. The Sixers shot 58.3% from three-point range and overcame Howard scoring 31 points and getting 16 rebounds. Miller, Iguodala, Young, and Williams combined for 57 points.)

Hawks (4) v. Heat (5)- Atlanta wins season 3-1; series 1-0 Hawks
The Hawks gained invaluable experience in their 7 game series with the Celtics last year. This season, it showed as they improved to 47 wins and the #4 seed in the East. Home court advantage will be big in this series as the Hawks won both games in Atlanta between these teams this season and split two games in Miami. Guards Joe Johnson (21.4 points per game), Mike Bibby (14.9 ppg), and Flip Murray (12.2 ppg) can all create their own shot on offense and post players Josh Smith (14.9 ppg), Marvin Williams (13.9 ppg), and Al Horford (11.5 ppg) can all score around the basket. The Hawks biggest weakness is the drop off in production after those six players. Maurice Evans (7.2 ppg) and Zaza Pachulia (6.3 ppg) are the only other players that average more than 3 points per game. Defensively, Horford and Smith combine for 3 blocks per game and can affect numerous shots with their athleticism.
The Heat, as Charles Barkley claims, are Michael Jackson and a bunch of Titos. They need Dwayne Wade to absolutely dominate this series to have any chance to win. The Heat do have some adequate scoring behind Wade, but their team goes as he goes. Michael Beasley (13.9 ppg), Jermaine O’Neal (13 ppg), Udonis Haslem (10.6 ppg), Mario Chalmers (10 ppg), and 6th Man Daequan Cook (9.2 ppg) will need to play well for the Heat to hang with the Hawks. Even if Wade scores 30 points per game, the Heat will need a big series from at least one or two of these other players to win the series. Defensively, Wade and O’Neal should be able to match the Hawks athletic front court with about 3 blocks per game.
During the regular season, Atlanta won 3 of 4 against Miami, including one in Miami (the home team won the other three. The margin was within 8 points in all 4 games. However, the Heat did not make the playoffs last season and their young roster does not have the postseason experience that the Hawks boast after last season’s playoffs.
Prediction- Hawks in 5; Wade gets the Heat one victory, but he can’t carry the Heat to an upset in the series.

Eastern Conference Finals
Cavaliers v. Magic- Cavs in 6
The Magic and the Cavs have played each other well this season, but the Magic were not able to defeat the Cavs in Cleveland. LeBron takes his game to the next level in the playoffs and the Cavs are finally healthy for the first time since the first few months of the season. Orlando won the season series 2-1 with the home team winning all three games. However, the Cavs were banged up in both losses. With a healthy team smelling the postseason, the Cavs will take their game to the next level and knock off the Magic.

Western Conference
Lakers (1) v. Jazz (8)- LA wins season 2-1; series 1-0 Lakers
The Jazz have only won 2 road games against teams that finished the regular season with a .500 record (at Philadelphia in November and at New Orleans in April). Overall Utah is just 15-26 on the road. That isn’t a good sign for a team that will need to win at least one game in Los Angeles where the Lakers were 36-5 this season. The matchup isn’t good for the Jazz either. While Deron Williams will be able to play his game and control Derek Fisher, Utah has no answer for Kobe. Ronnie Brewer will have to play the series of his life to contain Bryant and hold him under 25 points per game and even if he does, Utah will still need its quintet of post players to prevent Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, and Lamar Odom from scoring easy buckets around the hoop. While Mehmet Okur (17 points per game), Carlos Boozer (16.2 ppg in 37 games), Paul Millsap (13.5 ppg), and Andrei Kirilenko (11.6 ppg) all scored in double figures this year and Matt Harpring (4.4 ppg) provided energy and toughness down low as well, these players don’t have the size to stop the Lakers down low and Kirilenko may be the only one agile enough to stay with Trevor Ariza.
On the other hand, the Lakers have been playing extremely well in the second half of the season and are welcoming Andrew Bynum back into the lineup after he missed a sizeable part of the season with a knee injury. After rehabbing with some Playboy bunnies, Bynum looks to be ready to contribute in the playoffs and return to his 14.3 point, 8 rebound, and 1.8 block performances. Add that level of contribution to Kobe (26.8 ppg), Gasol (18.9 ppg), Odom (11.4 ppg), Fisher (9.9 ppg), and Ariza (8.9 ppg), and the Lakers look to be one of the more dynamic offenses in the West, averaging 106.9 points per game this season, good for third in the NBA and first among playoff teams. Couple that with the Jazz surrendering 100.9 points per game, one of only 3 playoff teams to give up over 100 (Chicago and Denver), and this could be a quick, ugly series.
For the Jazz to win this series, they need Boozer to quickly return to all-star form, which has not happened yet this season. Maybe the motivation of free agency will entice Boozer again, as it has in the past. Additionally, the Jazz need big series on offense from Williams and defense from Brewer. If Brewer can contain Kobe and cause him to force bad shots (which Kobe does fall into from time to time) the Jazz might be able to stay close in this series. Finally, if Andrew Bynum is not effective coming back from his injury, that could also close the gap. Even if all of these “ifs” happen, it will still be an uphill battle for the Jazz to win this series. The Lakers have home court and an unbelievable amount of depth.
Prediction- Lakers in 5, the Jazz will win one in Salt Lake City, but most of the losses will be by double-digits.

Nuggets (2) v. Hornets (7)- season tied 2-2; series 1-0 Nuggets
Homecourt advantage will not have as big an effect on this series as both teams were 21-20 on the road and were difficult to beat at home. The Nuggets only finished 5 games ahead of the Hornets in the regular season, so it is not a typical 2-7 matchup.
The Hornets are led by their pair of all-stars, Chris Paul and David West. Both players averaged over 20 points per game this season, but the matchups in this series may slow them down. Paul will be matched up against Mr. Big Shot Chauncey Billups who still has a few years left on his tires and brings a wealth of playoff experience. Billups is also a bigger guard which could be an effective defense to Paul’s speed. In the post, Chauncey will have a distinct advantage and should be able to play Paul fairly physical and bump him off his game a little bit. For West, he will run into a trio of defensive stalwarts in the post. Kenyon Martin will start out on West, but Chris Anderson and Renaldo Balkman off the bench are both outstanding defenders. Anderson is agile and has the length to block shots while Balkman has relentless energy and should harass and frustrate West throughout the series. The rest of the Hornets need to find their stride soon or this could be a quick series. Peja Stojakovic has not shot the ball well this season and finished with a shooting percentage under 40% for the year and Tyson Chandler has been banged up all season. Last year, the Hornets had four potential all-stars; this year just two. The addition of James Posey should help as he may guard 6th Man candidate and offensive powder keg J.R. Smith and Rasual Butler will hit some shots, but the Nuggets will have too much firepower in this series.
In addition to Billups and the post defense mentioned above, the Nuggets have another weapon known simply as ‘Melo. Carmelo Anthony averaged 22.8 points per game this season and will be matched up with either Butler or Stojakovic, neither of whom can guard Anthony. If Anthony and Billups need help on offense, Coach George Karl can bring Smith and his 15.2 ppg average off the bench. Smith has two 40 point games and two 30 point games this season, so he can light it up if either of those two players has an off game. Finally, at center the Nuggets have the efficient Nene Hilario. Nene shot over 60% from the field this year and averaged 14.6 ppg to go with over 7 rebounds. If Chandler is not 100%, Nene could be the X-factor in the post for the Nuggets, converting easy baskets to supplement the abundance of scoring talent on the wings.
Prediction- Nuggets in 5. The Hornets will win at least one game at home and could stretch this series to 6 games by stealing a second. To win the series, Chris Paul will have to be unstoppable, which he can be, but I don’t feel an upset is likely here.

Spurs (3) v. Mavericks (6)- season tied 2-2; series 1-0 Mavericks
The Mavericks have found their stride lately and could present a difficult matchup for the Spurs, especially with Ginobli out. The Spurs still have Tony Parker and Tim Duncan to carry the load, but the key to their past title runs was having all three of their stars healthy for a playoff run. Without Ginobli, the Spurs have to rely on role players Roger Mason (solid contributor but not Ginobli) and Michael Finley (about 4 seasons to late in his career to adequately replace Manu). Drew Gooden was a good pickup that can score and rebound in the post, but the Spurs look uncharacteristicly thin this playoff.
On the other hand, the Mavericks are hitting on all cylinders now, going 6-2 in April including a 140-116 win over Phoenix and a 130-101 win over Utah. Offensively, the Mavericks have Dirk Nowitzki scoring over 25 points per game, but the return of Josh Howard may be key. Howard returned to play 6 games in April, averaging over 18 points per game in 30 minutes after missing 30 games throughout the season due to injuries. After those two, the Mavericks then bring Jason Terry off the bench to average 19.6 ppg. While the Mavericks may not have a point guard to contain Parker’s quickness, Jason Kidd and Jose Juan Barea should be able to match his offensive production and possibly tire him out as the game progresses, making Parker less effective in crunch time. Role players Brandon Bass (8.5 ppg) and the much improved Gerald Green (5.2 ppg, but he could be developing into the Mavericks’ version of J.R. Smith) provide depth and offense off the bench.
For the Spurs to win this, their 2nd ranked scoring defense will have to contain the Mavericks 9th ranked scoring offense. It should be an interesting matchup, but I have to go against my instincts and go with the offense here. Like the Hornets-Nuggets series, home court will not be a huge factor in this series as each team won a game on the other teams’ home court and the series split 2-2. With the Spurs banged up, I like the Mavericks depth to overcome the Spurs defensive system in a long series.
Prediction- Mavericks in 7. This series will come down to the role players and I like Terry, Barea, Bass, and Green over Mason, Matt Bonner, Finley, and Gooden.

Blazers (4) v. Rockets (5)- Houston wins season 2-1; series 1-0 Rockets
This will be a low scoring series between the 4th ranked defense of the Blazers and the 6th ranked defense of the Rockets. Houston has won 5 of 6 to lead into the playoffs and the team has played better together as the season progressed. Heading into the playoffs, Ron Artest is fully acclimated to playing with the Rockets and the team has adjusted to replacing Rafer Alston with Aaron Brooks in the starting lineup after Alston was traded to the Magic.
This is the best first round matchup in the Western Conference with the young Blazers matching up with the physical and playoff tested (and disappointed) Rockets. The home team won all three regular season matchups, but two of those games were close with Portland winning by 2 at the Rose Garden and Houston winning by 4 in Houston. The most recent matchup was a 14 point Rockets victory. The individual matchups in this series should be interesting as well.
Artest should be matched up with Blazers star Brandon Roy, which could really hurt the Blazers. Artest is one of, if not the best perimeter defenders in the NBA and should be able to contain Roy and hold him below 20 points per game. On the year, Roy averaged 21 points against Houston, but shot below 40% against them, well below the 48% he shot on the year. That could be magnified as Roy plays under the bright lights of the playoffs for the first time in his career. If Artest needs a break or is ineffective, Shane Battier will be able to step in and guard Roy as well. Roy will have a good defender in his face at all times in this series which could severely affect his output. LaMarcus Aldridge played well against Houston, averaging 23.3 points per game, but I expect the defense of Battier, Artest, and Luis Scola to take him off of his game. The playoffs are usually more physical than the regular season, and the Rockets have multiple bodies to throw at Aldridge down low including Carl Landry and Chuck Hayes off the bench. The Blazers are young and inexperienced in the playoffs which will hurt them against a veteran team.
For the Rockets, Yao Ming should have a great series as no one on Portland can match up with him. If they double team, it will result in open looks for PF Scola, who shots over 53% from the floor. Brooks and Artest provide scoring from the wings and backups Kyle Lowry and Von Wafer can both shoot coming off the bench. The Blazers can counter with Travis Outlaw and Sergio Rodriguez off the bench which could lead to an interesting comparison of whose bench plays better. One of the big questions of this series is whether the Rockets can finally make it out of the first round.
In this series, defense will reign. The Rockets veteran savvy and improved play over the course of the season will push them over the hump in a competitive series. The Blazers may be one year away from making a run at the finals.
Prediction- Rockets in 6. This will be a close series and should be fun to watch, but the Rockets physical defense and experience will be the difference in this series.

Western Conference Finals
Lakers v. Rockets- Lakers in 6
The Rockets’ defense will carry them to this series where they will be the only team to challenge the Lakers until the Finals. With Artest guarding Kobe and Yao, Scola, and Battier containing the Lakers bigs in the post, this series could get interesting, but in the long run, the Lakers have too much firepower for the Rockets. Fisher should be able to outplay Brooks at the point in what will prove to be the key matchup as the Rockets will surprisingly play even with the Lakers at the other positions. Rockets Coach Rick Adelman will show why he deserves Coach of the Year with this run, but Houston will come up short as the Lakers march on to the Finals.

NBA Championship
Lakers v. Cavaliers- Cavs in 7
While the Lakers won both regular season games against the Cavs, Ilgauskas only played in one game, Delonte West missed both, and Joe Smith was not on the team yet. With these three players healthy, the Cavs become the better team. However, the Lakers are improved from the team that almost beat the Celtics in the championship last year, and they are the only team to win a game in Cleveland this season when the starters played. This should be an epic showdown that will return the NBA finals to the glory days of the 1980s with Larry Bird against Magic Johnson. As these teams move toward this showdown, don’t be surprised if whispers of the playoffs being fixed for a Cavs-Lakers showdown start swirling. While I usually go for these conspiracy theories, no teams in the NBA match up with either of these powers. This matchup will happen as long as these two teams can stay healthy. When they meet, LeBron and Kobe will put on a show. The Cavs will pull out a tough series with Ilgauskas neutralizing Gasol. The Cavs backcourt of West and Williams will outplay Fisher and Luke Walton giving them the edge. Kobe and LeBron should end up canceling each other out as they both live up their reputations.