Last season the Cleveland Cavaliers went 66-16, thinking this is the year we will win it. Nothing can get in our way. They went into the Playoffs, swept their first two series. Then came the Eastern Conference Finals, they were going to take on the Orlando Magic, A team they were not ready for. All season they had prepared for the Boston Celtics, thinking this is the team we will be playing in the Eastern Conference Finals. Little did the Cavaliers know, the Magic defeated the Celtics in 7 Games to Advance to the ECF. The Cavs started on a hot streak Vs. The Magic, winning by over 20 points after the first half in game 1. Then came the second half when they blew the lead and lost game 1. Then going to Game 2, taking a 23 point lead into halftime, but luckily winning Game 2 with a 3 at the Buzzer by LeBron James. Then the rest of the series they got dominated, they weren't able to defend the 3-Point Line, nor could they defend Dwight Howard in the Paint. The Cavaliers lost the series 4-2.
OFFSEASON:
This offseason the Cavs had 3 Main Weaknesses, 2 of which they have completed, the 3rd one is still in Process.
1) A Defensive Big Man who Can Clog up the Paint. CHECK
2) A Defensive Swingman. CHECK
3) Back-Up Point Guard. STILL IN PROCESS
The Cavaliers started their great offseason by Trading F Ben Wallace, G Sasha Pavlovic, 2010 Second Round Pick, and $500,000 for C Shaquille O'Neal of the Phoenix Suns. This trade doesn't just help the Cavs Skill wise, but Shaq has an expiring contract of $21,000,000, which helps the Cavs Financially.
The Cavaliers Then signed Two Swingmen. The first one being G Anthony Parker from the Toronto Raptors, then G-F Jamario Moon from the Miami Heat.
The Cavs Still Weren't Finished. They then signed injured F Leon Powe. He tore his ACL last season, but he is expected back after the All-Star Break, and he will make an immediate impact when coming back.
The Last thing the Cavs want to do is get a Veteran Back-Up Point Guard, which still hasn't happened, but there is a list of Veterans who could sign with the Cavs soon.
-Earl Boykins
-Tyrone Lue
-Carlos Aroyo
-Jamaal Tinsley
PREVIEW:
Predictions
Record: 62-20
Seed: 1st In the East
This season the Cavaliers are thinking Championship or Bust. Mainly because it is the last year on LeBron's contract. If they don't win then LeBron will leave is what people think. In My opinion the Cavaliers will win it all this year. Their Starting Line-Up is too strong, and their bench is a second team.
Cavaliers Projected Depth Chart:
PG: Mo Williams/Daniel Gibson
SG: Delonte West/Anthony Parker
SF: LeBron James/Jamario Moon
PF: Anderson Varejao/Leon Powe (When he Comes back From Injury)/JJ Hickson
C: Shaquille O'Neal/Zydrunas Ilgauskas
This is a team with very little Flaws, and this will be the team to look out for all season.
Final Prediction: 2009-'10 NBA Champions.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Updated Mock Draft Lottery
Austin Collins' 2009 NBA Mock Draft Lottery
In my mock draft I will give my selection for each team along with why they selected that player, and I will also give an opinion on if that team will make any moves on draft night or in the rest of the offseason.
1. LA Clippers – Blake Griffin - the Player of the Year, he is 6-10, athletic, and is just skilled. He is going to be a star; the Clippers will not pass him up. With the Clippers loaded with big men do to the selection of Griffin, I expect a trade of Kaman, Randolph, or Camby.
2. Memphis Grizzlies – Jordan Hill – with his great athletic ability, his great ability to score, and his post defense, he fits in great with all the young guys in Memphis. Not too sure if the Grizzlies will make any moves other than picks in the draft, but I feel Jordan Hill wou ld be perfect for the Grizzlies.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder – Hasheem Thabeet – he has the size and the defense to be a dominant force on defense. He has long arms, great jumping ability, and can block many shots inside. And to go a young Thunder team in need of a center, he will fit in well. And for the Thunder making any moves, I would also expect them to look for another big man in a trade.
4. Sacramento Kings – Ricky Rubio – the best point guard in the draft, and he goes where he is needed. He has a great feel for the game, great passing skills, and the ability to know where his teammates are going. He needs some improvement on his jump shot, but otherwise this pick fits for the Kings. I don't expect the Kings to make a lot of moves, but Andres Nocioni has a chance of being traded.
5. Washington Wizards – James Harden – has the ability to shoot the ball very well, and can score inside. With his ability to shoot the ball, he should fit in with the Wizards. This pick for the Wizards does have a chance of being traded.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves – Brandon Jennings – spending time in the Euro League should have improved Jennings game. The Timberwolves may look to trade Mike Miller, or Brian Cardinal.
7. Golden State Warriors – Jonny Flynn – The Warriors need a true point guard in their fast pace style of play so I think Flynn with his scorin g ability and quickness will help them. The Warriors are going to look to trade one of their many slashers.
8. New York Knicks – Stephen Curry – can shoot the ball from anywhere, amazing from behind the arc and can drive in the paint and score. His height may be a problem playing in the NBA, but in a Mike D'Antoni style of play he can get shots off like Nate Robinson. The Knicks will likely be looking to gain more cap space for the big summer of 2010, so expect trades from the Knicks.
9. Toronto Raptors – DeMar DeRozan – the Raptors will probably look at a slasher and shooter after the trade of Jamrio Moon who was an explosive player. DeRozan has the potential to turn into a Richard Jefferson, Vince Carter type player. As for other moves for the Raptors, from reports they are shopping Chris Bosh and could be traded on draft day or some other time in the offseason.
10. Milwaukee Bucks – Jeff Teague – a player who has definitely moved up in this draft and will be a lottery pick. In my last Mock Draft I did not have him in it, but after more scouting on him, he20looks like he can help a team out at the point guard. As for the moves for the Bucks, I think they will look for a big man to replace Charlie Villanueva.
11. New Jersey Nets – DeJuan Blair – one of the best rebounders I have seen in college, he has a great game on the block down low, and can get a mountain of rebounds. He is very similar to Charles Barkley; Blair should be able to play well with Brook Lopez. With the Nets likely looking for ways to clear cap space for 2010, they are going to shed some salary like a Bobby Simmons or Eduardo Najera.
12. Charlotte Bobcats – Tyreke Evans – after trading Jason Richardson and the possibility of Raymond Felton going elsewhere in free agency, they will likely look for a guard in the draft. Evans can be an explosive scorer and can play well with DJ Augustin. If the Bobcats decide they do not want to keep Felton, they may work out a sign and trade.
13. Indiana Pacers – Gerald Henderson – Henderson can do a little bit of everything, he can score and defend. And he has good leadership skills. The Pacers will likely look for backcourt help. And in other movers for the Pacers, they will likely look for a big man if they decide not to keep Rasho Nesterovic.
14. Phoenix Suns – Jrue Holiday – great athletic combo guard, will be able to be a good backup to Steve Nash and Holiday can be that defensive guard that Raja Bell used to be in Phoenix. He does need to improve his outside shooting in order to play with a team like the Suns. The Suns are likely going to be shopping Amare Stoudemire to see what they can get for the All-Star.
-Austin Collins
In my mock draft I will give my selection for each team along with why they selected that player, and I will also give an opinion on if that team will make any moves on draft night or in the rest of the offseason.
1. LA Clippers – Blake Griffin - the Player of the Year, he is 6-10, athletic, and is just skilled. He is going to be a star; the Clippers will not pass him up. With the Clippers loaded with big men do to the selection of Griffin, I expect a trade of Kaman, Randolph, or Camby.
2. Memphis Grizzlies – Jordan Hill – with his great athletic ability, his great ability to score, and his post defense, he fits in great with all the young guys in Memphis. Not too sure if the Grizzlies will make any moves other than picks in the draft, but I feel Jordan Hill wou ld be perfect for the Grizzlies.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder – Hasheem Thabeet – he has the size and the defense to be a dominant force on defense. He has long arms, great jumping ability, and can block many shots inside. And to go a young Thunder team in need of a center, he will fit in well. And for the Thunder making any moves, I would also expect them to look for another big man in a trade.
4. Sacramento Kings – Ricky Rubio – the best point guard in the draft, and he goes where he is needed. He has a great feel for the game, great passing skills, and the ability to know where his teammates are going. He needs some improvement on his jump shot, but otherwise this pick fits for the Kings. I don't expect the Kings to make a lot of moves, but Andres Nocioni has a chance of being traded.
5. Washington Wizards – James Harden – has the ability to shoot the ball very well, and can score inside. With his ability to shoot the ball, he should fit in with the Wizards. This pick for the Wizards does have a chance of being traded.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves – Brandon Jennings – spending time in the Euro League should have improved Jennings game. The Timberwolves may look to trade Mike Miller, or Brian Cardinal.
7. Golden State Warriors – Jonny Flynn – The Warriors need a true point guard in their fast pace style of play so I think Flynn with his scorin g ability and quickness will help them. The Warriors are going to look to trade one of their many slashers.
8. New York Knicks – Stephen Curry – can shoot the ball from anywhere, amazing from behind the arc and can drive in the paint and score. His height may be a problem playing in the NBA, but in a Mike D'Antoni style of play he can get shots off like Nate Robinson. The Knicks will likely be looking to gain more cap space for the big summer of 2010, so expect trades from the Knicks.
9. Toronto Raptors – DeMar DeRozan – the Raptors will probably look at a slasher and shooter after the trade of Jamrio Moon who was an explosive player. DeRozan has the potential to turn into a Richard Jefferson, Vince Carter type player. As for other moves for the Raptors, from reports they are shopping Chris Bosh and could be traded on draft day or some other time in the offseason.
10. Milwaukee Bucks – Jeff Teague – a player who has definitely moved up in this draft and will be a lottery pick. In my last Mock Draft I did not have him in it, but after more scouting on him, he20looks like he can help a team out at the point guard. As for the moves for the Bucks, I think they will look for a big man to replace Charlie Villanueva.
11. New Jersey Nets – DeJuan Blair – one of the best rebounders I have seen in college, he has a great game on the block down low, and can get a mountain of rebounds. He is very similar to Charles Barkley; Blair should be able to play well with Brook Lopez. With the Nets likely looking for ways to clear cap space for 2010, they are going to shed some salary like a Bobby Simmons or Eduardo Najera.
12. Charlotte Bobcats – Tyreke Evans – after trading Jason Richardson and the possibility of Raymond Felton going elsewhere in free agency, they will likely look for a guard in the draft. Evans can be an explosive scorer and can play well with DJ Augustin. If the Bobcats decide they do not want to keep Felton, they may work out a sign and trade.
13. Indiana Pacers – Gerald Henderson – Henderson can do a little bit of everything, he can score and defend. And he has good leadership skills. The Pacers will likely look for backcourt help. And in other movers for the Pacers, they will likely look for a big man if they decide not to keep Rasho Nesterovic.
14. Phoenix Suns – Jrue Holiday – great athletic combo guard, will be able to be a good backup to Steve Nash and Holiday can be that defensive guard that Raja Bell used to be in Phoenix. He does need to improve his outside shooting in order to play with a team like the Suns. The Suns are likely going to be shopping Amare Stoudemire to see what they can get for the All-Star.
-Austin Collins
Friday, June 19, 2009
5 Most Underrated NBA Players
5. Andris Biedrins, C, Golden State Warriors
Biedrins has never really been a big name player. He use to have so much trouble when it came to staying out of foul trouble. But this season he really stepped it up as a starter, and yet no one recognized him. He was still just, that guy on Golden State. This season he averaged a double-double every game. He averaged a Career high in PPG with 11.9, a Career high in RPG with 11.2, and a Career high in MPG with 30. Still why isn't this guy seen as a big name player, it's because he is on a lousy team, but he deserves credit for what he does on this team.
4. Thaddeus Young, SF, Philadelphia 76ers
Young was drafted 12th overall in the 2007 draft with high hopes. Yet he was never played. His Rookie Season he averaged around 21 MPG. He wasn't considered a stud from his rookie class that year. Then came the 2008-'09 Season. He started 71 of the 75 games he played in and he averaged 15.8 PPG while playing 38.2 MPG. He turned into the 2nd option on the team. He was able to hit shots when they needed him to and yet he still isn't recognized for what he does for his team.
3. Aaron Brooks, PG, Houston Rockets
Before Rafar Alston was Traded, Minutes were hard to find for Aaron Brooks, but on February 19th the Rockets Traded Alston to the Magic. This Gave Brooks the starting Job at Point Guard. As a starter he averaged 14 PPG and 4.5 APG. During the Playoffs Brooks was phenomenal. He averaged 16.8 PPG and shot 42% from the 3-Point Line. In Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals, Brooks scored a career high 34 points and led the Rockets to victory to even up their series with the Lakers 2-2. Brooks is not viewed as a great point guard by some, but in my books he is a young man who is going to continue to get better and he should be recognized for what he does on the court.
2. Hilario Nene, C, Denver Nuggets
Nene Was drafted 7th Overall in 2002 by the New York Knicks with high hopes. He was then immediately traded to the Denver Nuggets. He began the season on the bench, battling for minutes. Soon he proved himself and was an everyday starter averaging 10.5 PPG, and 6.1 RPG. He has always been a consistent Center, that I am sure any team would want. He plays his hardest day in an day out. He is a double-double Center, and he is never recognized by the league. The only time he was really heard of was during his Cancer Scare.
1. Kevin Martin, SG, Sacramento Kings
This man gets no credit for what he does only because he plays for such a bad team. He is an MVP Caliber player and yet he still gets no credit. He is coming off easily is best season in the NBA, averaging 24.6 PPG. He has no weapons on his team, he has no help, but I am sure any team would kill to have him on his team. If you bring him to any other team they would automatically become an NBA Finals Contender. He began his rookie season has what would say, a bust. Then he has turned into a superstud. At the age of 26, you can expect this guy to tear up the NBA for the next couple of years.
-Maxwell Peltz
Biedrins has never really been a big name player. He use to have so much trouble when it came to staying out of foul trouble. But this season he really stepped it up as a starter, and yet no one recognized him. He was still just, that guy on Golden State. This season he averaged a double-double every game. He averaged a Career high in PPG with 11.9, a Career high in RPG with 11.2, and a Career high in MPG with 30. Still why isn't this guy seen as a big name player, it's because he is on a lousy team, but he deserves credit for what he does on this team.
4. Thaddeus Young, SF, Philadelphia 76ers
Young was drafted 12th overall in the 2007 draft with high hopes. Yet he was never played. His Rookie Season he averaged around 21 MPG. He wasn't considered a stud from his rookie class that year. Then came the 2008-'09 Season. He started 71 of the 75 games he played in and he averaged 15.8 PPG while playing 38.2 MPG. He turned into the 2nd option on the team. He was able to hit shots when they needed him to and yet he still isn't recognized for what he does for his team.
3. Aaron Brooks, PG, Houston Rockets
Before Rafar Alston was Traded, Minutes were hard to find for Aaron Brooks, but on February 19th the Rockets Traded Alston to the Magic. This Gave Brooks the starting Job at Point Guard. As a starter he averaged 14 PPG and 4.5 APG. During the Playoffs Brooks was phenomenal. He averaged 16.8 PPG and shot 42% from the 3-Point Line. In Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals, Brooks scored a career high 34 points and led the Rockets to victory to even up their series with the Lakers 2-2. Brooks is not viewed as a great point guard by some, but in my books he is a young man who is going to continue to get better and he should be recognized for what he does on the court.
2. Hilario Nene, C, Denver Nuggets
Nene Was drafted 7th Overall in 2002 by the New York Knicks with high hopes. He was then immediately traded to the Denver Nuggets. He began the season on the bench, battling for minutes. Soon he proved himself and was an everyday starter averaging 10.5 PPG, and 6.1 RPG. He has always been a consistent Center, that I am sure any team would want. He plays his hardest day in an day out. He is a double-double Center, and he is never recognized by the league. The only time he was really heard of was during his Cancer Scare.
1. Kevin Martin, SG, Sacramento Kings
This man gets no credit for what he does only because he plays for such a bad team. He is an MVP Caliber player and yet he still gets no credit. He is coming off easily is best season in the NBA, averaging 24.6 PPG. He has no weapons on his team, he has no help, but I am sure any team would kill to have him on his team. If you bring him to any other team they would automatically become an NBA Finals Contender. He began his rookie season has what would say, a bust. Then he has turned into a superstud. At the age of 26, you can expect this guy to tear up the NBA for the next couple of years.
-Maxwell Peltz
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
5 Most Underrated Players in the NFL
5. Tony Gonzalez, TE, Atlanta Falcons
Yes he is a big name star, but he is never really recognized for what he does on the field. Everyone always says the Top Tight Ends are guys like Antonio Gates, Kellen Winslow Jr., Etc. But everyone forgets about Tony Gonzalez. Gonzalez is one of those guys that you know will try his hardest game in and game out. Even at the age of 33 he still produces like a Pro Bowl Tight End. Last season he has a great season averaging 11 Yards per Catch while gaining 1,058 Yards and scoring 10 Touchdowns. The Media just continues to ignore this superstar, and I think it is his time to shine.
4. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints
Everyone talks about, whose Better Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. But Nobody says Who is better Drew Brees or Tom Brady, or Drew Brees or Peyton Manning. Every since Joining the New Orleans Saints he has been phenominal. The three seasons he has been there his yardage has looked like this 4,418, 4,423, And Then an Amazing 5,069. Even after winning NFL Offenseive Player of the year, he still isn't said in the same sentence as Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, but after this next Season, I think he can be mentioned in the same sentence.
3. Joe Thomas, LT, Cleveland Browns
Joe Thomas was Drafted by the Cleveland Browns #3 overall expected to do great things for this team. He has been nothing, but Extraordinary. He has been a Pro Bowler the last two seasons. And yet he gets no Recognition. He has been the anchor of the Cleveland Browns Offensive Line, and he has been blocking against some great Defensive Linemen. This man is a stud, and young. You can expect another Pro Bowl season out of this star.
2. Mario Williams, DE, Houston Texans
After the Houston Texans Passed up on College Stud RB Reggie Bush, and Selected DE Mario Williams, everyone thought this was a waste of a pick. Experts thought this man was going to be a bust. Well his first season he was considered a bust. But he came back in his second season and increased his sack total from 4.5 to 14. He turned into a Tackling machine. The Debate, who is better Reggie Bush or Mario Williams, has an obvious answer now, and the answer is Mario. Who over the last two seasons has been a beast, having a total of 26 Sacks. He isn't really recognized as one of the top Defensive Ends in the NFL, but he did make the All NFL First Team, so I think he should be considered one now, as he is the Leader of a weak Houston Texan Defense.
1. Donald Driver, WR, Green Bay Packers
This man has never been considered a big time receiver. He has never been compared to guys like Terrell Owens, Randy Moss, Braylon Edwards, Etc. But The honest truth, he is better then half those receivers. For example, Braylon Edwards leads the league in Drops, while Driver goes out and catches the ball consistently, and has 1,000 yard seasons over and over again. Terrell Owens has an attitude, and steals all the attention, while Driver goes out on the field gives it his best, and doesn't complain about anything. He should is a Pro-Bowl Receiver in my mind, but yet he is never mention in the same sentence with all these other receivers. He might not be mentioned with these guys, but at least he knows he is better than half those players, and I know he is beter than half those Wide Receivers.
-Maxwell Peltz
Yes he is a big name star, but he is never really recognized for what he does on the field. Everyone always says the Top Tight Ends are guys like Antonio Gates, Kellen Winslow Jr., Etc. But everyone forgets about Tony Gonzalez. Gonzalez is one of those guys that you know will try his hardest game in and game out. Even at the age of 33 he still produces like a Pro Bowl Tight End. Last season he has a great season averaging 11 Yards per Catch while gaining 1,058 Yards and scoring 10 Touchdowns. The Media just continues to ignore this superstar, and I think it is his time to shine.
4. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints
Everyone talks about, whose Better Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. But Nobody says Who is better Drew Brees or Tom Brady, or Drew Brees or Peyton Manning. Every since Joining the New Orleans Saints he has been phenominal. The three seasons he has been there his yardage has looked like this 4,418, 4,423, And Then an Amazing 5,069. Even after winning NFL Offenseive Player of the year, he still isn't said in the same sentence as Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, but after this next Season, I think he can be mentioned in the same sentence.
3. Joe Thomas, LT, Cleveland Browns
Joe Thomas was Drafted by the Cleveland Browns #3 overall expected to do great things for this team. He has been nothing, but Extraordinary. He has been a Pro Bowler the last two seasons. And yet he gets no Recognition. He has been the anchor of the Cleveland Browns Offensive Line, and he has been blocking against some great Defensive Linemen. This man is a stud, and young. You can expect another Pro Bowl season out of this star.
2. Mario Williams, DE, Houston Texans
After the Houston Texans Passed up on College Stud RB Reggie Bush, and Selected DE Mario Williams, everyone thought this was a waste of a pick. Experts thought this man was going to be a bust. Well his first season he was considered a bust. But he came back in his second season and increased his sack total from 4.5 to 14. He turned into a Tackling machine. The Debate, who is better Reggie Bush or Mario Williams, has an obvious answer now, and the answer is Mario. Who over the last two seasons has been a beast, having a total of 26 Sacks. He isn't really recognized as one of the top Defensive Ends in the NFL, but he did make the All NFL First Team, so I think he should be considered one now, as he is the Leader of a weak Houston Texan Defense.
1. Donald Driver, WR, Green Bay Packers
This man has never been considered a big time receiver. He has never been compared to guys like Terrell Owens, Randy Moss, Braylon Edwards, Etc. But The honest truth, he is better then half those receivers. For example, Braylon Edwards leads the league in Drops, while Driver goes out and catches the ball consistently, and has 1,000 yard seasons over and over again. Terrell Owens has an attitude, and steals all the attention, while Driver goes out on the field gives it his best, and doesn't complain about anything. He should is a Pro-Bowl Receiver in my mind, but yet he is never mention in the same sentence with all these other receivers. He might not be mentioned with these guys, but at least he knows he is better than half those players, and I know he is beter than half those Wide Receivers.
-Maxwell Peltz
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Trades that I think will happen on draft day.
In my article I will give my trade scenarios that I believe will happen on draft day, this is pure speculation. I also I am not saying all of these will happen, only some.
New York Knicks trade:
Larry Hughes, Eddy Curry, cash
Houston Rockets trade:
Tracy McGrady, 2010 2nd round pick
Phoenix Suns trade:
Amare Stoudemire, Alando Tucker
Chicago Bulls trade:
Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas, Aaron Gray, 16th pick in 2009 NBA Draft, cash
Portland Trailblazers trade:
Sergio Rodriguez
New York Knicks trade:
2010 1st round pick, cash
New Jersey Nets trade:
Bobby Simmons, Keyon Dooling
Minnesota Timberwolves trade:
Mike Miller, Sheldon Williams, Bobby Brown
Cleveland Cavaliers trade:
Ben Wallace, Sasha Pavlovic, 2010 2nd round pick
Phoenix Suns trade:
Shaquille O'Neal
Oklahoma City Thunder trade:
Earl Watson, Nick Collison
Memphis Grizzlies trade:
Darko Millicic, Marko Jaric
Those are the trades from my speculation that may happen, they fill each teams needs, I did take some trade rumors into my predictions, and I will likely make post my opinion after the draft on what I think of the trades that happened.
-Austin Collins
New York Knicks trade:
Larry Hughes, Eddy Curry, cash
Houston Rockets trade:
Tracy McGrady, 2010 2nd round pick
Phoenix Suns trade:
Amare Stoudemire, Alando Tucker
Chicago Bulls trade:
Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas, Aaron Gray, 16th pick in 2009 NBA Draft, cash
Portland Trailblazers trade:
Sergio Rodriguez
New York Knicks trade:
2010 1st round pick, cash
New Jersey Nets trade:
Bobby Simmons, Keyon Dooling
Minnesota Timberwolves trade:
Mike Miller, Sheldon Williams, Bobby Brown
Cleveland Cavaliers trade:
Ben Wallace, Sasha Pavlovic, 2010 2nd round pick
Phoenix Suns trade:
Shaquille O'Neal
Oklahoma City Thunder trade:
Earl Watson, Nick Collison
Memphis Grizzlies trade:
Darko Millicic, Marko Jaric
Those are the trades from my speculation that may happen, they fill each teams needs, I did take some trade rumors into my predictions, and I will likely make post my opinion after the draft on what I think of the trades that happened.
-Austin Collins
Monday, June 15, 2009
Shaq to the Cavs?
Rumors have surfaced that the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Phoenix Suns are discussing a trade that would send Shaquille O'Neal to Cleveland to play with LeBron James. What Cleveland would give up would be F Ben Wallace and G Sasha Pavlovic, but sources from the Suns have said that G Delonte West would be the deal breaker. If Cleveland is to give that up for Shaq they would have a large hole at the 2 guard. From a Cavs fan point of view, I would not give up Delonte or a draft pick in this deal, I would give up Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic if I was Danny Ferry, but as other rumors say, the Suns do not just to want to give Shaq away for cap relief. If this deal goes through, I do believe it will help Cleveland if they keep Delonte West. It will help Cleveland in the low post and in guarding centers in the East and West (Dwight Howard, Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol). I will likely post again if this deal goes down.
-Austin Collins
-Austin Collins
Saturday, June 13, 2009
The City Of champions
HO-LEE SHIT
Let me repeat myself
HO-LEE SHIT
That is the first thought that went through my head as my friends and I counted down the final seconds of the Penguins victory. I was at a party meant to celebrate the end of the school year which easily turned into a Penguins party. As we all erupted in celebration, I couldn't help but think, yet again, "HOLY SHIT! WE JUST WON THE STANLEY CUP!!!" In my head, it didn't quite register. All the experts were betting against us. I didn't read one article on any website earlier that favored the Pens tonight. They all basically said "The Pens played well, but they really don't really have a chance." And you know, they did have a few reasons for that. They had out played us in all 3 games in Detroit. They had one of the best records in the National Hockey League. They had killed us in faceoffs. They beat us 5-0 in Detroit. How could they possibly lose, right?
As my mom picked me up from the party, we drove through Bloomfield, a part of the city of Pittsburgh. It was literally nuts. Police lined the streets, making sure that the people didn't flood the streets and do something stupid. The people were obviously drunk, but were ridiculously happy. It was so much fun. Driving down those roads with the windows down yelling right back at the crazily drunk fans was great. I mean, no other city in the United States can call themselves the city of champions. As of right now, the city of Pittsburgh owns the only 2 sports championships of 2009. We haven't won titles in 2 sports since 1979, which was 30 years ago (in case you weren't counting.) I just have to say, it feels good to be back on top. Sure the super bowl felt awesome, considering the comeback drive and the first team to win 6 super bowls, but we had just felt that same rush 3 years before. With Hockey, we hadn't won since 1992-93 season, and had come so close last year. And this year, to beat the very same team that beat us the year before, with the hated Marian Hossa (a word about him in a bit), was just the sweetest thing. And also, we are the first city to win a Super Bowl and Stanley Cup in the same year. It was icing on the cake that was a remarkable season.
Now, just a small word to Hossa: IN YOUR FACE BITCH!!! hahahaha!!! Revenge is so sweet. See, in case you don't know, Hossa was on our team last year, aquired via the trade deadline. He had a fantastic postseason, and almost tied the last game of last year's finals with just a few seconds left. In the offseason, we offered him a huge contract, something like 5 years, 30-something million dollars. Guess What? He turned it down to go where? That's right. De-fricking-troit. He signed a one year, 7.25 million dollar contract because a) he wanted more money quickly and b) he thought he had a better chance to win a Stanley Cup there. Bad idea Marion. You just lost the cup! HA! (and here's something else funny. look at his name backwards. its A-S-S-O-H. if you were to say that quickly, it sounds like "asshole." perfect description.)
And now as I stare into my computer screen in disbelief, listening to the countless amounts of coverage of this final, its beginning to kick in. We won the Stanley Cup- in Detroit - and without our phenom captain Sid the Kid Crosby who played for about 3minutes in the game, and beat the so-called best team in the NHL on their own home ice. With a goalie who had been embarrassed and taken out just 2 games earlier for letting up 5 straight goals. Beating a team of seasoned veterans. Once again, one phrase dominates my mind.
HO-LEE SHIT.
And now another. I kinda like this one better:
CITY OF CHAMPIONS
Boy, I could really get used to that.
- Zach Marlin
Let me repeat myself
HO-LEE SHIT
That is the first thought that went through my head as my friends and I counted down the final seconds of the Penguins victory. I was at a party meant to celebrate the end of the school year which easily turned into a Penguins party. As we all erupted in celebration, I couldn't help but think, yet again, "HOLY SHIT! WE JUST WON THE STANLEY CUP!!!" In my head, it didn't quite register. All the experts were betting against us. I didn't read one article on any website earlier that favored the Pens tonight. They all basically said "The Pens played well, but they really don't really have a chance." And you know, they did have a few reasons for that. They had out played us in all 3 games in Detroit. They had one of the best records in the National Hockey League. They had killed us in faceoffs. They beat us 5-0 in Detroit. How could they possibly lose, right?
As my mom picked me up from the party, we drove through Bloomfield, a part of the city of Pittsburgh. It was literally nuts. Police lined the streets, making sure that the people didn't flood the streets and do something stupid. The people were obviously drunk, but were ridiculously happy. It was so much fun. Driving down those roads with the windows down yelling right back at the crazily drunk fans was great. I mean, no other city in the United States can call themselves the city of champions. As of right now, the city of Pittsburgh owns the only 2 sports championships of 2009. We haven't won titles in 2 sports since 1979, which was 30 years ago (in case you weren't counting.) I just have to say, it feels good to be back on top. Sure the super bowl felt awesome, considering the comeback drive and the first team to win 6 super bowls, but we had just felt that same rush 3 years before. With Hockey, we hadn't won since 1992-93 season, and had come so close last year. And this year, to beat the very same team that beat us the year before, with the hated Marian Hossa (a word about him in a bit), was just the sweetest thing. And also, we are the first city to win a Super Bowl and Stanley Cup in the same year. It was icing on the cake that was a remarkable season.
Now, just a small word to Hossa: IN YOUR FACE BITCH!!! hahahaha!!! Revenge is so sweet. See, in case you don't know, Hossa was on our team last year, aquired via the trade deadline. He had a fantastic postseason, and almost tied the last game of last year's finals with just a few seconds left. In the offseason, we offered him a huge contract, something like 5 years, 30-something million dollars. Guess What? He turned it down to go where? That's right. De-fricking-troit. He signed a one year, 7.25 million dollar contract because a) he wanted more money quickly and b) he thought he had a better chance to win a Stanley Cup there. Bad idea Marion. You just lost the cup! HA! (and here's something else funny. look at his name backwards. its A-S-S-O-H. if you were to say that quickly, it sounds like "asshole." perfect description.)
And now as I stare into my computer screen in disbelief, listening to the countless amounts of coverage of this final, its beginning to kick in. We won the Stanley Cup- in Detroit - and without our phenom captain Sid the Kid Crosby who played for about 3minutes in the game, and beat the so-called best team in the NHL on their own home ice. With a goalie who had been embarrassed and taken out just 2 games earlier for letting up 5 straight goals. Beating a team of seasoned veterans. Once again, one phrase dominates my mind.
HO-LEE SHIT.
And now another. I kinda like this one better:
CITY OF CHAMPIONS
Boy, I could really get used to that.
- Zach Marlin
Should the NBA allow High School players?
The rule is that a player must play a year of basketball in college before playing in the NBA. And many people have said that this rule should stay or even extended to two or even 3 years. But lately many people believe that the NBA should eliminate that rule.
There are many reasons that the number of years in college the player must play should be extended. The High School game and the College game are very different, in High School there is less pressure than in College where you are in a packed gym full of college students cheering for you or against you. In that way the college game can prepare you for the NBA which has all the pressure in all of basketball. There are many players that never lived up to expectations: Kwame Brown, Darius Miles, Sagana Diop, and many others.
On the other hand there are many reasons and examples that High School students can go straight into the NBA. When high school players go straight to the NBA it can give them a lot of confidence. And many great players in the NBA came straight out of high school: LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Kevin Garnett, Jermaine O'Neal, Tyson Chandler, Tracy McGrady, Josh Smith, Amare Stoudemire, and I could go on. So I believe that the best thing the NBA can do is allow High School players, it creates deeper drafts, and when a player goes into the NBA young they have much more room to develop and adjust.
There are many reasons that the number of years in college the player must play should be extended. The High School game and the College game are very different, in High School there is less pressure than in College where you are in a packed gym full of college students cheering for you or against you. In that way the college game can prepare you for the NBA which has all the pressure in all of basketball. There are many players that never lived up to expectations: Kwame Brown, Darius Miles, Sagana Diop, and many others.
On the other hand there are many reasons and examples that High School students can go straight into the NBA. When high school players go straight to the NBA it can give them a lot of confidence. And many great players in the NBA came straight out of high school: LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Kevin Garnett, Jermaine O'Neal, Tyson Chandler, Tracy McGrady, Josh Smith, Amare Stoudemire, and I could go on. So I believe that the best thing the NBA can do is allow High School players, it creates deeper drafts, and when a player goes into the NBA young they have much more room to develop and adjust.
-Austin Collins
Friday, June 12, 2009
Who will win the Stanley Cup?
Game 7, Friday, June 12th, 8 PM Eastern.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Pittsburgh Penguins
At
Detroit Red Wings
After Losing the Stanley Cup Finals last year to the Detroit Red Wings in 5 Games, the Penguins look to Rebound and take this series in 7. But this will be tough to do for a young penguins team playing against a very physical and talented team and playing on the road. They are 0-3 in Detroit so far this series. Let's look at some statistics so far in this series.
Shots: Detroit 179, Pittsburgh 169.
Power Plays: Detroit 4/21, Pittsburgh 4/13.
Face-offs: Detroit 166, Pittsburgh 140.
Hits: Pittsburgh 210, Detroit 195.
So Far Detroit has just beat them at everything, but I think the statistics in the first 6 games mean nothing. This is the game to win it all, you have to forget every game that has happened in the past. None of those 6 games matter, you got to go out there and give more than 110%, because this is one of the MOST important games of your career.
What does Sydney Crosby have to do to win this game?
Sydney Crosby has to be the Best player on the floor, not just for himself, but he needs to make the players around him better. He needs to put whatever he has into this game.
Why will Detroit Win Game 7?
They are the Better overall Team and they are almost impossible to beat in the playoffs at home.
Why will Pittsburgh Win Game 7?
They have a top 5 player in the league in Sydney Crosby and if he steps it up, they can win this game.
My Prediction:
Pittsburgh Wins 3-2.
-Maxwell Peltz
Saved by the Birds
With Zack Greinke on the mound in Cleveland against the Tribe it seemed like he would get a good outing like he usually does. But this game ended with one of the strangest endings to a game I have ever seen.
Grienke pitched 7 and a 1/3 innings before handing it over to Joakim Soria. Soria gave up a double to Jhonny Peralta in the Bottom of the 8th that tied the game at 3 runs a piece. Then in the top of the 10th inning, Kerry Wood struck out two batters and gets out of the inning smoothly. Next, with no outs in the bottom of the 10th, Mark Derosa was at 2nd base, Kyle Farnsworth on the mound, and Shin-Soo Choo up to bat. Choo hits the ball up the middle and out to center where it hits a seagull. This causes the ball to get past Cocoa Crisp easily in center field which allows DeRosa to come around 3rd and score the game winning run to give the Tribe a 4-3 victory, and gets them out of Last place in the AL Central. Now that’s what I call saved by the Birds.
-Austin Collins
Grienke pitched 7 and a 1/3 innings before handing it over to Joakim Soria. Soria gave up a double to Jhonny Peralta in the Bottom of the 8th that tied the game at 3 runs a piece. Then in the top of the 10th inning, Kerry Wood struck out two batters and gets out of the inning smoothly. Next, with no outs in the bottom of the 10th, Mark Derosa was at 2nd base, Kyle Farnsworth on the mound, and Shin-Soo Choo up to bat. Choo hits the ball up the middle and out to center where it hits a seagull. This causes the ball to get past Cocoa Crisp easily in center field which allows DeRosa to come around 3rd and score the game winning run to give the Tribe a 4-3 victory, and gets them out of Last place in the AL Central. Now that’s what I call saved by the Birds.
-Austin Collins
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