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Dirk and the Mavs are In Trouble

Ever since the Dallas Mavericks rose to contention, nine years ago, they have been considered the little brother to the title-winning San Antonio Spurs. Because both teams play in Texas and one has a history of winning and the other has been "rising" for some time, a rivalry has been created. They have met in the playoffs in 2003, 2006, and 2009.

Usually, when the two teams play during the regular season, the games are close and competitive. In the past, those games would be important because both teams were competing for the first seed in the West. In 2006, when Dallas eliminated the Spurs in the second round, it appeared that they had finally assumed their position over their rivals.

However, it proved to be a fluke, but last season, when they met, Dirk Nowitzki led his Mavericks to a tremendous 4-1 series victory over San Antonio in the first round. This season, the Mavericks have been trying to regain the respect that they lost in the 2007 NBA Playoffs. With the second seed in the Western Conference and the Spurs in the first round, it appeared as if the Mavs may finally show up. Dirk dominated game one and proclaimed that his team would win the series.

Three games later, that is not the case and the Dallas Mavericks have no answers on what to do next.

Ever since the Dallas Mavericks rose to contention, nine years ago, they have been considered the little brother to the title-winning San Antonio Spurs. Because both teams play in Texas and one has a history of winning and the other has been "rising" for some time, a rivalry has been created. They have met in the playoffs in 2003, 2006, and 2009.

Usually, when the two teams play during the regular season, the games are close and competitive. In the past, those games would be important because both teams were competing for the first seed in the West. In 2006, when Dallas eliminated the Spurs in the second round, it appeared that they had finally assumed their position over their rivals.

However, it proved to be a fluke, but last season, when they met, Dirk Nowitzki led his Mavericks to a tremendous 4-1 series victory over San Antonio in the first round. This season, the Mavericks have been trying to regain the respect that they lost in the 2007 NBA Playoffs. With the second seed in the Western Conference and the Spurs in the first round, it appeared as if the Mavs may finally show up. Dirk dominated game one and proclaimed that his team would win the series.

Three games later, that is not the case and the Dallas Mavericks have no answers on what to do next.

Dirk and the Mavs are In Trouble

Kevin Durant hopes to Bring Thunder down on Lakers

It is no secret that the Western Conference is stacked and it takes a lot more than 50 wins to get a comfortable seed. The Oklahoma City Thunder are sitting right at 49-32 as the season is coming to a close. Usually, a record like this is worthy of the third seed, but the West is living up to the name of wild wild. Because of the stiff competition, the highest that the Thunder can finish is with the seventh seed.

However, it is more likely that they will end up with the eighth seed in the playoffs. The eighth seed will draw them the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round. The Lakers have been a tough team for years and they won the championship last season. Despite their strong play, they have taken some games off this season. For the past three years, they have earned the first seed in the West, but this year they were lazy.

Most sports analysts give the Lakers a pass for being lazy because of their roster. They feel that any team that has Kobe Bryant on it should be able to turn things on in time for the playoffs. With age slowly creeping up on Bryant, it is possible that it may be a little harder for the Lakers to turn it on. For years, and still now, Kobe is considered one of the top scorers in the game. However, competition has come in the form of Kevin Durant. He has been in the league for three years, but this year, everything has come together for the Thunder and they are on their way to the playoffs. As previously stated, they will likely face the Lakers in the first round.

Because the Lakers are who they are, many people are expecting them to make quick work of the Thunder in the first round. It is funny how quickly people forget that the Thunder went on an impressive tear, earlier this season, while the Lakers were slumping. While Kevin Durant is no Kobe Bryant, he is going to cause fits for Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, and Lamar Odom. With this being his first-ever playoff appearance, Durant is ready to turn some heads. If he is able to lead his team, which has never been to the playoffs before, to a first round series victory, as an eight seed, over the first seed and defending champion Lakers, he will be forever embedded in basketball history.

Right now, not too many people feel that anything like this will happen. However, most people are not Kevin Durant and he is positive that he will bring an incredible dynamic to the series that may shift things in favor of his team, as opposed to the Lakers.

It is no secret that the Western Conference is stacked and it takes a lot more than 50 wins to get a comfortable seed. The Oklahoma City Thunder are sitting right at 49-32 as the season is coming to a close. Usually, a record like this is worthy of the third seed, but the West is living up to the name of wild wild. Because of the stiff competition, the highest that the Thunder can finish is with the seventh seed.

However, it is more likely that they will end up with the eighth seed in the playoffs. The eighth seed will draw them the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round. The Lakers have been a tough team for years and they won the championship last season. Despite their strong play, they have taken some games off this season. For the past three years, they have earned the first seed in the West, but this year they were lazy.

Most sports analysts give the Lakers a pass for being lazy because of their roster. They feel that any team that has Kobe Bryant on it should be able to turn things on in time for the playoffs. With age slowly creeping up on Bryant, it is possible that it may be a little harder for the Lakers to turn it on. For years, and still now, Kobe is considered one of the top scorers in the game. However, competition has come in the form of Kevin Durant. He has been in the league for three years, but this year, everything has come together for the Thunder and they are on their way to the playoffs. As previously stated, they will likely face the Lakers in the first round.

Because the Lakers are who they are, many people are expecting them to make quick work of the Thunder in the first round. It is funny how quickly people forget that the Thunder went on an impressive tear, earlier this season, while the Lakers were slumping. While Kevin Durant is no Kobe Bryant, he is going to cause fits for Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, and Lamar Odom. With this being his first-ever playoff appearance, Durant is ready to turn some heads. If he is able to lead his team, which has never been to the playoffs before, to a first round series victory, as an eight seed, over the first seed and defending champion Lakers, he will be forever embedded in basketball history.

Right now, not too many people feel that anything like this will happen. However, most people are not Kevin Durant and he is positive that he will bring an incredible dynamic to the series that may shift things in favor of his team, as opposed to the Lakers.

Kevin Durant hopes to Bring Thunder down on Lakers

Dwight Howard deserves MVP talk, too

Back in the 2005-2006 season, there were many NBA insiders who predicted that the league would shift from a focus on centers to a focus on wingmen. At the time, they said that the last dominant center in the league would be Shaquille O'Neal. Fast forward five seasons later and the talk of the NBA is Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James, but Dwight Howard is in the mix, too.

Ever since 2006-2007, Dwight Howard has been the most dominant big man in the NBA. But, this season, he has been on a tear. Not unlike last season, but this year, Dwight Howard has come into his own. For the past few seasons, Howard has played as if he has something to prove. Due to his need to prove himself, his play has been very strong during these seasons.

However, last season, Dwight Howard led the Magic to the NBA Finals for only the second time in their history. Everything that he had to prove was proven and his team is a serious contender. No longer does the play of Dwight Howard seem like a man trying to prove himself. Instead, he is the top center in the NBA and he plays like the seasoned veteran that he has become. But, when the MVP discussion comes up, people are saying that LeBron James has already won the award.

As great as Dwight Howard has played this year, no one brings up a legitimate argument for him. Instead, though, when LeBron James is brought up, there are some people who argue for Kobe. Then, there are others who argue for Dwyane Wade. But, people hardly ever bring up Dwight Howard. Everyone has acknowledged the fact that LeBron James has led his team to the NBA's best record. But, if leadership is what the MVP is based upon, Dwight Howard's team has a better record than both Kobe's Lakers and Wade's Heat.

Maybe Dwight Howard may lead another upset over LeBron James and take the MVP award.

Back in the 2005-2006 season, there were many NBA insiders who predicted that the league would shift from a focus on centers to a focus on wingmen. At the time, they said that the last dominant center in the league would be Shaquille O'Neal. Fast forward five seasons later and the talk of the NBA is Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James, but Dwight Howard is in the mix, too.

Ever since 2006-2007, Dwight Howard has been the most dominant big man in the NBA. But, this season, he has been on a tear. Not unlike last season, but this year, Dwight Howard has come into his own. For the past few seasons, Howard has played as if he has something to prove. Due to his need to prove himself, his play has been very strong during these seasons.

However, last season, Dwight Howard led the Magic to the NBA Finals for only the second time in their history. Everything that he had to prove was proven and his team is a serious contender. No longer does the play of Dwight Howard seem like a man trying to prove himself. Instead, he is the top center in the NBA and he plays like the seasoned veteran that he has become. But, when the MVP discussion comes up, people are saying that LeBron James has already won the award.

As great as Dwight Howard has played this year, no one brings up a legitimate argument for him. Instead, though, when LeBron James is brought up, there are some people who argue for Kobe. Then, there are others who argue for Dwyane Wade. But, people hardly ever bring up Dwight Howard. Everyone has acknowledged the fact that LeBron James has led his team to the NBA's best record. But, if leadership is what the MVP is based upon, Dwight Howard's team has a better record than both Kobe's Lakers and Wade's Heat.

Maybe Dwight Howard may lead another upset over LeBron James and take the MVP award.

Dwight Howard deserves MVP talk, too

Ray Allen is Almost Done in Boston

Three years ago, strategic manuevers from Danny Ainge put a halt to the so-called Celtic curse. After years of being an average team, the Boston Celtics hit rock bottom in the 2006-2007 season. Paul Pierce had come to accept the fact that he could not carry that team on his own. Despite posting the worst record in the East, the Celtics had a bright future with many young players. While the future was bring, Paul Pierce was living in the present.

The same issues that plagued Paul Pierce were also bothering Kevin Garnett. He had the luck of coming to a fairly new franchise and turning them into perennial playoff contenders. From 1997 until 2004, the Timberwolves were a force to be reckoned with. However, just as soon as they turned the corner, they fell apart. Garnett had convinced himself that each season would be the one where they got back on track. That would not be the case, as each year, Minnesota only became worse.

Following the 2006-2007 season, Kevin Garnett broke the hearts of all fans of the Minnesota Timberwolves when he demanded to be traded. Teams around the league lined up to recruit him. While Kevin Garnett was leaving his team, the Seattle SuperSonics were looking to unload their stars. Having landed Kevin Durant with the second overall pick of the 2007 NBA Draft, the Sonics looked to build around him. They quickly landed a deal to send Ray Allen over to the struggling Boston Celtics. Previously, the Celtics made an offer for Garnett, but he turned them down out of fear that he would be leaving Minnesota for Minnesota. But, after Allen was traded, Kevin Garnett went running over to Boston.

Three of the most lovable losers in the NBA teamed up and became contenders. In some games, they made it look so easy and they cruised to the league-best record of 66-16. By playoff time, the Celtics were expected to easily win the championship. However, a scrappy Atlanta Hawks team pushed them to seven games. In the seventh game, Boston broke through and won. Key shots by Ray Allen saved a lot of games for Boston, especially in their seven-game series against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Celtics would dominate their way to the NBA Finals, where Ray Allen's underrated defense slowed Kobe Bryant for six games.

Coming into the next season, Boston dominated just as strong as they did during their championship season, but injuries led to the Celtics slipping to the second seed in the East. In the first round of the playoffs, Ray Allen received the challenge of his career in trying to defend Derrick Rose and hit big shots. He barely pulled that off as the Boston Celtics escaped in their series against the Chicago Bulls. Having been drained by the scrappy Bulls, the Celtics fell in seven games to the Orlando Magic. Over the summer, the Celtics were given a chance to heal, but then age set in. Most previews of the NBA season had Boston returning to form and winning the 2010 NBA championship. But, age has caught up with the Celtics and they are worse than they were last season.

At the trade deadline, the Celtics admitted that they were looking to add youth to their roster. While they were unwilling to part with Paul Pierce or Kevin Garnett, they were said to be more than willing to part with Ray Allen. Of the big three, he has always been considered the weakest link. Unlike the other two stars, Allen will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season. He said that he would love to remain in Boston, but he will be exploring his options. More than likely, the love affair between Ray Allen and the Boston Celtics is over.

Three years ago, strategic manuevers from Danny Ainge put a halt to the so-called Celtic curse. After years of being an average team, the Boston Celtics hit rock bottom in the 2006-2007 season. Paul Pierce had come to accept the fact that he could not carry that team on his own. Despite posting the worst record in the East, the Celtics had a bright future with many young players. While the future was bring, Paul Pierce was living in the present.

The same issues that plagued Paul Pierce were also bothering Kevin Garnett. He had the luck of coming to a fairly new franchise and turning them into perennial playoff contenders. From 1997 until 2004, the Timberwolves were a force to be reckoned with. However, just as soon as they turned the corner, they fell apart. Garnett had convinced himself that each season would be the one where they got back on track. That would not be the case, as each year, Minnesota only became worse.

Following the 2006-2007 season, Kevin Garnett broke the hearts of all fans of the Minnesota Timberwolves when he demanded to be traded. Teams around the league lined up to recruit him. While Kevin Garnett was leaving his team, the Seattle SuperSonics were looking to unload their stars. Having landed Kevin Durant with the second overall pick of the 2007 NBA Draft, the Sonics looked to build around him. They quickly landed a deal to send Ray Allen over to the struggling Boston Celtics. Previously, the Celtics made an offer for Garnett, but he turned them down out of fear that he would be leaving Minnesota for Minnesota. But, after Allen was traded, Kevin Garnett went running over to Boston.

Three of the most lovable losers in the NBA teamed up and became contenders. In some games, they made it look so easy and they cruised to the league-best record of 66-16. By playoff time, the Celtics were expected to easily win the championship. However, a scrappy Atlanta Hawks team pushed them to seven games. In the seventh game, Boston broke through and won. Key shots by Ray Allen saved a lot of games for Boston, especially in their seven-game series against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Celtics would dominate their way to the NBA Finals, where Ray Allen's underrated defense slowed Kobe Bryant for six games.

Coming into the next season, Boston dominated just as strong as they did during their championship season, but injuries led to the Celtics slipping to the second seed in the East. In the first round of the playoffs, Ray Allen received the challenge of his career in trying to defend Derrick Rose and hit big shots. He barely pulled that off as the Boston Celtics escaped in their series against the Chicago Bulls. Having been drained by the scrappy Bulls, the Celtics fell in seven games to the Orlando Magic. Over the summer, the Celtics were given a chance to heal, but then age set in. Most previews of the NBA season had Boston returning to form and winning the 2010 NBA championship. But, age has caught up with the Celtics and they are worse than they were last season.

At the trade deadline, the Celtics admitted that they were looking to add youth to their roster. While they were unwilling to part with Paul Pierce or Kevin Garnett, they were said to be more than willing to part with Ray Allen. Of the big three, he has always been considered the weakest link. Unlike the other two stars, Allen will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season. He said that he would love to remain in Boston, but he will be exploring his options. More than likely, the love affair between Ray Allen and the Boston Celtics is over.

Ray Allen is Almost Done in Boston

Kobe vs. LeBron: 2k10... Don't Bet on It

Last year, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James appeared to have created a rivalry in the NBA. The Lakers posted the top record in the West, while the Cavaliers posted the top record in the East. Because both teams featured a megastar, the media wanted to create a rivalry between the two players. Most fans of NBA basketball are either fans of Kobe or LeBron. Last year, many people expected these teams to meet in the NBA Finals, but the Orlando Magic ruined that for the media.

Because it did not happen last year, the media has jumped behind the Lakers and the Cavaliers. They badly want to have these two go head-to-head for the NBA championship. By simply looking at the stats and the record of the two teams, it looks as if it may happen. But, looking at the recent streaks, these teams could be in trouble. No, there is not a doubt that the Lakers or the Cavaliers will not finish top in their conference, but they will face trouble in the playoffs.

It is likely that the Lakers will have to play the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs. Everything that the Lakers have, the Blazers have, too. That includes an energetic two guard in Brandon Roy. With Roy playing at his best, he can pose quite a challenge to Bryant. Plus, the Lakers have struggled to win a game in Portland for some time. The last time Kobe Bryant won a game in the Rose Garden, he was still wearing jersey number 8 and there was the question of if he could win a championship without Shaq. Yes, it has been that long. While the Lakers will probably finish off the Blazers, it will not be a cut-and-dry series, it could possibly go the full seven games.

Meanwhile, in the East, Cleveland will not have it as easy as it looks, either. The Tornoto Raptors are a dangerous team and they have some matchup advantages. Of course, the Cavs have LeBron James, but he is not able to do everything. Much like with the Lakers and the Blazers, LeBron could be in the first round of the playoffs a lot longer than he expected to be. Chris Bosh is a very agile big man and he is going to make the front line defense of the Cleveland Cavaliers work. While the Raptors have struggled for quite a while, the current struggles of the Chicago Bulls will put them in the playoffs. They could push the Cavaliers to seven games, too.

The passion that runs deep inside the veins of Kobe Bryant will not allow his team to fall in the first round of the playoffs. This comes especially after posting the top record in the West. But, if his team does not take Portland seriously, they could find themselves in game seven and down by 25. Knowing Kobe, if the series does go to a game seven, he will make sure that Portland does not show up. Just because they are able to survive that test, the Lakers would still have either the Phoenix Suns or the Utah Jazz in the second round. A few years ago, the Lakers and the Suns had a fierce rivalry. This current Suns team has a lot more to prove than the ones that bounced Los Angeles in the first round, twice. But, the Utah Jazz have lost to the Lakers two years in a row. Now that Carlos Boozer has accepted the fact that this is his team, he is ready for them to make a statement. A great statement would be beating the Lakers.

As good as the Los Angeles Lakers are, they can be defeated by either the Utah Jazz or the Phoenix Suns. But, if they do not lose focus, they could survive these teams in six games. There is not much question of them making it past those teams. They will make it, but it will not be an easy task and by the time they receive Denver or Dallas in the Conference Finals, they may be out of gas. Defeating the Blazers and Suns or Jazz will not be an easy task. If they come in ready to fight, they will still go six games. But, if they come in not ready to play, they could find themselves going home early. No matter how they come against the Nuggets or Mavs, it is going to be a dogfight. Playing at the top of their game could easily result in the Lakers going a full seven with both of these teams. Denver has lost to the Lakers for the past two years and Dallas has a major chip on its shoulder.

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers are proned to be upset. In the second round, they will face either the inspired Atlanta Hawks, or the streaking Milwaukee Bucks. Both teams are energetic and ready to upset the top team in the NBA. After the upset that came at the hands of the Magic, LeBron James will be determined to make sure his Cavaliers play better in the big games. But, unlike last season, the chances of the Cavs sweeping a team are slim-to-none. The Raptors will probably take them six or seven games and the Hawks will definitely force a seventh game. The Bucks could take them to six, but it would probably be them advancing, as opposed to the Cavs going to the Conference Finals. Most-likely, the Cavaliers will play against the Orlando Magic. Despite all of their "improvements," the Magic could still overtake the Cavs and ruin their season again.

There are too many teams that no one is focusing on. The sports analysts that sit back and write off every team not named the Lakers and the Cavaliers are in for a rude awakening. Yes, this is Kobe in the playoffs, but there are other names, such as Roy, Stoudemire, Williams, and Boozer that want to prove something. Also, Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups are looking to go to the NBA Finals and they are not intimidated by the Lakers. For years, the Dallas Mavericks wanted to be looked at as contenders. As soon as they reach contender status, they are upset by the Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors. Now, they are looked at as just another team. They have the ability to beat Oklahoma City, Denver, and the Lakers. In the finals, they would probably defeat any team in the Eastern Conference.

Last year, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James appeared to have created a rivalry in the NBA. The Lakers posted the top record in the West, while the Cavaliers posted the top record in the East. Because both teams featured a megastar, the media wanted to create a rivalry between the two players. Most fans of NBA basketball are either fans of Kobe or LeBron. Last year, many people expected these teams to meet in the NBA Finals, but the Orlando Magic ruined that for the media.

Because it did not happen last year, the media has jumped behind the Lakers and the Cavaliers. They badly want to have these two go head-to-head for the NBA championship. By simply looking at the stats and the record of the two teams, it looks as if it may happen. But, looking at the recent streaks, these teams could be in trouble. No, there is not a doubt that the Lakers or the Cavaliers will not finish top in their conference, but they will face trouble in the playoffs.

It is likely that the Lakers will have to play the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs. Everything that the Lakers have, the Blazers have, too. That includes an energetic two guard in Brandon Roy. With Roy playing at his best, he can pose quite a challenge to Bryant. Plus, the Lakers have struggled to win a game in Portland for some time. The last time Kobe Bryant won a game in the Rose Garden, he was still wearing jersey number 8 and there was the question of if he could win a championship without Shaq. Yes, it has been that long. While the Lakers will probably finish off the Blazers, it will not be a cut-and-dry series, it could possibly go the full seven games.

Meanwhile, in the East, Cleveland will not have it as easy as it looks, either. The Tornoto Raptors are a dangerous team and they have some matchup advantages. Of course, the Cavs have LeBron James, but he is not able to do everything. Much like with the Lakers and the Blazers, LeBron could be in the first round of the playoffs a lot longer than he expected to be. Chris Bosh is a very agile big man and he is going to make the front line defense of the Cleveland Cavaliers work. While the Raptors have struggled for quite a while, the current struggles of the Chicago Bulls will put them in the playoffs. They could push the Cavaliers to seven games, too.

The passion that runs deep inside the veins of Kobe Bryant will not allow his team to fall in the first round of the playoffs. This comes especially after posting the top record in the West. But, if his team does not take Portland seriously, they could find themselves in game seven and down by 25. Knowing Kobe, if the series does go to a game seven, he will make sure that Portland does not show up. Just because they are able to survive that test, the Lakers would still have either the Phoenix Suns or the Utah Jazz in the second round. A few years ago, the Lakers and the Suns had a fierce rivalry. This current Suns team has a lot more to prove than the ones that bounced Los Angeles in the first round, twice. But, the Utah Jazz have lost to the Lakers two years in a row. Now that Carlos Boozer has accepted the fact that this is his team, he is ready for them to make a statement. A great statement would be beating the Lakers.

As good as the Los Angeles Lakers are, they can be defeated by either the Utah Jazz or the Phoenix Suns. But, if they do not lose focus, they could survive these teams in six games. There is not much question of them making it past those teams. They will make it, but it will not be an easy task and by the time they receive Denver or Dallas in the Conference Finals, they may be out of gas. Defeating the Blazers and Suns or Jazz will not be an easy task. If they come in ready to fight, they will still go six games. But, if they come in not ready to play, they could find themselves going home early. No matter how they come against the Nuggets or Mavs, it is going to be a dogfight. Playing at the top of their game could easily result in the Lakers going a full seven with both of these teams. Denver has lost to the Lakers for the past two years and Dallas has a major chip on its shoulder.

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers are proned to be upset. In the second round, they will face either the inspired Atlanta Hawks, or the streaking Milwaukee Bucks. Both teams are energetic and ready to upset the top team in the NBA. After the upset that came at the hands of the Magic, LeBron James will be determined to make sure his Cavaliers play better in the big games. But, unlike last season, the chances of the Cavs sweeping a team are slim-to-none. The Raptors will probably take them six or seven games and the Hawks will definitely force a seventh game. The Bucks could take them to six, but it would probably be them advancing, as opposed to the Cavs going to the Conference Finals. Most-likely, the Cavaliers will play against the Orlando Magic. Despite all of their "improvements," the Magic could still overtake the Cavs and ruin their season again.

There are too many teams that no one is focusing on. The sports analysts that sit back and write off every team not named the Lakers and the Cavaliers are in for a rude awakening. Yes, this is Kobe in the playoffs, but there are other names, such as Roy, Stoudemire, Williams, and Boozer that want to prove something. Also, Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups are looking to go to the NBA Finals and they are not intimidated by the Lakers. For years, the Dallas Mavericks wanted to be looked at as contenders. As soon as they reach contender status, they are upset by the Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors. Now, they are looked at as just another team. They have the ability to beat Oklahoma City, Denver, and the Lakers. In the finals, they would probably defeat any team in the Eastern Conference.

Kobe vs. LeBron: 2k10... Don't Bet on It

Can Brandon Roy lead the Blazers to a Laker upset?

The NBA Playoffs are right around the corner and it is looking more and more likely that the Portland Trail Blazers are locked into a first round contest with the Los Angeles Lakers. This is the same Laker team that features Kobe Bryant and that won the NBA title last season. Many consider Bryant to be the best player in the league and the Blazers' star, Brandon Roy, has received some comparisons to Bryant.

Many sports fans who believe in history repeating itself will keep a close eye on this series. Because the Lakers are the Lakers, everyone has them defeating Portland, but them using this as a learning experience. Some think that this will result in Kobe Bryant passing down the torch to Brandon Roy. What people fail to realize is that the Blazers are a dangerous team. They are written off because they are young, but on one has told Brandon Roy that his team has to lose to Los Angeles.

Brandon Roy is a lot like Kobe Bryant in the aspect of coming up big when his team needs it the most. Plus, the Blazers have a great home record against the Lakers. If the Lakers play the way they have recently against underrated teams, they could find themselves in a tough series against the Lakers. Many are expecting an early series lead from the Lakers. No matter how complacent they come out, it is doubtful that they will lose their opening home games in the postseason. But, as the series shifts to Portland, the Blazers could pick up steam. This will be decided by the play of Brandon Roy, on and off of the ball.

If the Lakers are not careful, they could find themselves losing two games in Portland and forced to close out the series in the Rose Garden. There is a chance that Brandon Roy could provide some theatrics, similar to those of Kobe Bryant from the previous decade, to send the Lakers home much earlier than expected.

The NBA Playoffs are right around the corner and it is looking more and more likely that the Portland Trail Blazers are locked into a first round contest with the Los Angeles Lakers. This is the same Laker team that features Kobe Bryant and that won the NBA title last season. Many consider Bryant to be the best player in the league and the Blazers' star, Brandon Roy, has received some comparisons to Bryant.

Many sports fans who believe in history repeating itself will keep a close eye on this series. Because the Lakers are the Lakers, everyone has them defeating Portland, but them using this as a learning experience. Some think that this will result in Kobe Bryant passing down the torch to Brandon Roy. What people fail to realize is that the Blazers are a dangerous team. They are written off because they are young, but on one has told Brandon Roy that his team has to lose to Los Angeles.

Brandon Roy is a lot like Kobe Bryant in the aspect of coming up big when his team needs it the most. Plus, the Blazers have a great home record against the Lakers. If the Lakers play the way they have recently against underrated teams, they could find themselves in a tough series against the Lakers. Many are expecting an early series lead from the Lakers. No matter how complacent they come out, it is doubtful that they will lose their opening home games in the postseason. But, as the series shifts to Portland, the Blazers could pick up steam. This will be decided by the play of Brandon Roy, on and off of the ball.

If the Lakers are not careful, they could find themselves losing two games in Portland and forced to close out the series in the Rose Garden. There is a chance that Brandon Roy could provide some theatrics, similar to those of Kobe Bryant from the previous decade, to send the Lakers home much earlier than expected.

Can Brandon Roy lead the Blazers to a Laker upset?

Time to Rebuild the San Antonio Spurs

Aside from the Los Angeles Lakers' run from 2000 until 2004 upon the top of the NBA, the San Antonio Spurs have dominated the NBA. In 1999, they took advantage of the short schedule and made it all of the way to their first-ever NBA Finals. Against the underdog New York Knicks, they easily defeated them in five games.

The next season was a full season and the Spurs could not keep pace. Struggles in the regular season kept them from landing one of the top three spots. Because of this, the Spurs ended up drawing the fourth playoff spot. In the playoffs, they faced the Phoenix Suns led by Penny Hardaway and Jason Kidd. They easily dethroned the Spurs.

As the Lakers would dominated and win NBA titles, the Spurs sat back and formulated a plot. Already featuring the big-man, Tim Duncan, they needed to provide him some help. Originally, the Spurs were led by David Robinson, but he was on the decline. Following the selection of Duncan with their first pick in the 1997 Draft, the team had shifted. Now, with Robinson making retirement plans, the Spurs needed to surround Duncan with talent. They would team him up with French basketball player, Tony Parker, and Argentinian Manu Ginobili.

In 2001, the new trio was formed, but Parker and Ginobili played off of the bench, as the Spurs began to gain ground on the Lakers. By the following season, a rivalry had been formed between the Spurs and the Lakers with the Lakers having an advantage. Following their run of three consecutive NBA titles, the Lakers had a season of injury. With Shaquille O'Neal out for most of the season, the Lakers could not compete with the Spurs. In the playoffs, the Lakers had the fourth seed, with the Spurs holding the top spot. For the first time in franchise history, the Spurs defeated the Lakers and they won their second championship. The 2002-2003 season was the emergence of the "Big Three" in San Antonio.

For the next five seasons, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker would dominate the Western Conference. They would go on to win the 2005 and 2007 NBA championships, but the next season, they would fall to the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. Following their playoff defeat, many expected the Spurs to return to form the following season. Like most seasons, San Antonio got off to a slow start and turned things around mid-season. However, they were too far behind to catch up. They would post the second-best record in the West, though. But, they were in a tie with the Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Houston Rockets for the second-best record in the West.

In the end, Denver won the second seed and San Antonio was given third. Despite the weak regular season play, many expected the Spurs to easily defeat the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets to set up a rematch with the Lakers in the Conference Finals. Instead, Dallas got them from the jump and the Spurs fell in five games to the Mavs in the first round. In the offseason, San Antonio landed Richard Jefferson, a known scorer in the league and Antonio McDyess, a former star for the Nuggets. Many people expected these moves to make the Spurs into the class of the West. However, these moves have made the Spurs only a bit better. In a conference as stacked as the West, it does not matter for much because the Spurs are only going to finish with the sixth spot, at best.

Obviously, Tim Duncan is not the player that he was in 2005. Duncan has lost quite a few steps and the fact that he is still anchoring the Spurs has slowed them down. If the Spurs want to contend again, they need to be grooming DeJuan Blair to take over. If Blair is not what they are setting their sights on, then they need to look into trading Duncan this offseason. Out of the "Big Three," Duncan is the weakest link. After everything that he is done, it is sad to say, but it is true. Now that Ginobili and Parker are finally healthy, they need a big man that can run with them. Duncan is better in the half-court, but he is not as good as he was in the half court. Because of this, he may need to move on.

If the San Antonio Spurs ever want to contend the way that they used to, they are going to have to look past their longtime big man in Tim Duncan.

Aside from the Los Angeles Lakers' run from 2000 until 2004 upon the top of the NBA, the San Antonio Spurs have dominated the NBA. In 1999, they took advantage of the short schedule and made it all of the way to their first-ever NBA Finals. Against the underdog New York Knicks, they easily defeated them in five games.

The next season was a full season and the Spurs could not keep pace. Struggles in the regular season kept them from landing one of the top three spots. Because of this, the Spurs ended up drawing the fourth playoff spot. In the playoffs, they faced the Phoenix Suns led by Penny Hardaway and Jason Kidd. They easily dethroned the Spurs.

As the Lakers would dominated and win NBA titles, the Spurs sat back and formulated a plot. Already featuring the big-man, Tim Duncan, they needed to provide him some help. Originally, the Spurs were led by David Robinson, but he was on the decline. Following the selection of Duncan with their first pick in the 1997 Draft, the team had shifted. Now, with Robinson making retirement plans, the Spurs needed to surround Duncan with talent. They would team him up with French basketball player, Tony Parker, and Argentinian Manu Ginobili.

In 2001, the new trio was formed, but Parker and Ginobili played off of the bench, as the Spurs began to gain ground on the Lakers. By the following season, a rivalry had been formed between the Spurs and the Lakers with the Lakers having an advantage. Following their run of three consecutive NBA titles, the Lakers had a season of injury. With Shaquille O'Neal out for most of the season, the Lakers could not compete with the Spurs. In the playoffs, the Lakers had the fourth seed, with the Spurs holding the top spot. For the first time in franchise history, the Spurs defeated the Lakers and they won their second championship. The 2002-2003 season was the emergence of the "Big Three" in San Antonio.

For the next five seasons, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker would dominate the Western Conference. They would go on to win the 2005 and 2007 NBA championships, but the next season, they would fall to the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. Following their playoff defeat, many expected the Spurs to return to form the following season. Like most seasons, San Antonio got off to a slow start and turned things around mid-season. However, they were too far behind to catch up. They would post the second-best record in the West, though. But, they were in a tie with the Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Houston Rockets for the second-best record in the West.

In the end, Denver won the second seed and San Antonio was given third. Despite the weak regular season play, many expected the Spurs to easily defeat the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets to set up a rematch with the Lakers in the Conference Finals. Instead, Dallas got them from the jump and the Spurs fell in five games to the Mavs in the first round. In the offseason, San Antonio landed Richard Jefferson, a known scorer in the league and Antonio McDyess, a former star for the Nuggets. Many people expected these moves to make the Spurs into the class of the West. However, these moves have made the Spurs only a bit better. In a conference as stacked as the West, it does not matter for much because the Spurs are only going to finish with the sixth spot, at best.

Obviously, Tim Duncan is not the player that he was in 2005. Duncan has lost quite a few steps and the fact that he is still anchoring the Spurs has slowed them down. If the Spurs want to contend again, they need to be grooming DeJuan Blair to take over. If Blair is not what they are setting their sights on, then they need to look into trading Duncan this offseason. Out of the "Big Three," Duncan is the weakest link. After everything that he is done, it is sad to say, but it is true. Now that Ginobili and Parker are finally healthy, they need a big man that can run with them. Duncan is better in the half-court, but he is not as good as he was in the half court. Because of this, he may need to move on.

If the San Antonio Spurs ever want to contend the way that they used to, they are going to have to look past their longtime big man in Tim Duncan.

Time to Rebuild the San Antonio Spurs

The Return of the Charlotte Hornets

Michael Jordan became the official new owner of the Charlotte Bobcats a few days ago. Now that he has officially taken the team over, there are some people that want him to rename the team. Being a native of the state of North Carolina, Jordan wants to be with the Charlotte Bobcats for a long time.

For those who recall, this is not the first time that Michael Jordan attempted to purchase an NBA franchise. He was a part of the Washington Wizards' organization for years. Jordan had hoped to become the primary owner of the team before long. After he left that organization, he tried to purchase the Charlotte Hornets.

Long before the Bobcats were ever the NBA team for Charlotte, NC, the Hornets were. From 1988 until 2002, the state of North Carolina was in love with the Charlotte Hornets. In their early years, the team was a constant loser. But, over time, they became a fairly good team. Even when the team did struggle, the fans stuck behind them. The owner of the team, George Shinn, was also a native of North Carolina. At the height of his popularity, there were some people who wanted Shinn to run for governor, He would decline this offer.

Lucky for George Shinn that he did, because before long, the people of Charlotte had enough of Shinn. He was caught up in a sexual harassment scandal and the people stopped supporting the Hornets. Despite the dwindling fan base, the Hornets were one of the best teams in the NBA. In the 2002 NBA Playoffs, the team nearly defeated the New Jersey Nets to make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. Because of the success of the Hornets, Shinn demanded that a new arena be constructed in downtown Charlotte with money from the taxpayers. The proposal was voted on by the people and they turned it down, because of that, Shinn relocated the team to New Orleans.

Because of the success of the Hornets, David Stern promised the city of Charlotte that a new team would replace the Hornets in Charlotte. Before the Hornets left, BET founder, Bob Johnson had made an offer to purchase the team. Eventually, he would be turned down by Shinn and he was granted the ownership of the new Charlotte franchise in return. Michael Jordan had also made a bid for the Hornets and Johnson would invite Jordan to become a part-owner and the President of Basketball Operations for the Bobcats. Last summer, Johnson revealed his plans to sell the team and Michael Jordan purchased the Bobcats a few weeks ago.

While George Shinn said a lot of bad things about the city of Charlotte, in 2008, he admitted that he made a mistake by relocating the Hornets to New Orleans. He said that if he had been given another chance that he would have kept the team in Charlotte. Shinn would also offer some advice to Bob Johnson while running the Bobcats, he told him to not turn on the fans. Despite the warning from Shinn, Johnson disgraced himself and the team suffered because of it. Often, George Shinn has wished luck to the Charlotte Bobcats. He has also said that he is looking to change the identity of the New Orleans Hornets. It is possible that he may be looking to change the name of the Hornets.

More than anything, the NBA fans in Charlotte want the Hornets back. Michael Jordan did not bring the old franchise back, but he did design the new jerseys for the Bobcats. Those new jerseys look a lot like the ones that the Hornets used to wear during their early days in Charlotte. Recently, Michael Jordan spoke of changing the name of the Bobcats. He said that he has made a committment to the city and to the franchise. Because of that, he is willing to change the name if the people want him to so badly. But, Jordan said that it was a financial committment to change the name and the logo of the team. However, he is willing to make any changes that the people want. It appears that the people still want the Hornets back, so if he has to, Jordan may work some magic tricks and replace the Charlotte Bobcats with the Charlotte Hornets, minus Chris Paul.

Michael Jordan became the official new owner of the Charlotte Bobcats a few days ago. Now that he has officially taken the team over, there are some people that want him to rename the team. Being a native of the state of North Carolina, Jordan wants to be with the Charlotte Bobcats for a long time.

For those who recall, this is not the first time that Michael Jordan attempted to purchase an NBA franchise. He was a part of the Washington Wizards' organization for years. Jordan had hoped to become the primary owner of the team before long. After he left that organization, he tried to purchase the Charlotte Hornets.

Long before the Bobcats were ever the NBA team for Charlotte, NC, the Hornets were. From 1988 until 2002, the state of North Carolina was in love with the Charlotte Hornets. In their early years, the team was a constant loser. But, over time, they became a fairly good team. Even when the team did struggle, the fans stuck behind them. The owner of the team, George Shinn, was also a native of North Carolina. At the height of his popularity, there were some people who wanted Shinn to run for governor, He would decline this offer.

Lucky for George Shinn that he did, because before long, the people of Charlotte had enough of Shinn. He was caught up in a sexual harassment scandal and the people stopped supporting the Hornets. Despite the dwindling fan base, the Hornets were one of the best teams in the NBA. In the 2002 NBA Playoffs, the team nearly defeated the New Jersey Nets to make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. Because of the success of the Hornets, Shinn demanded that a new arena be constructed in downtown Charlotte with money from the taxpayers. The proposal was voted on by the people and they turned it down, because of that, Shinn relocated the team to New Orleans.

Because of the success of the Hornets, David Stern promised the city of Charlotte that a new team would replace the Hornets in Charlotte. Before the Hornets left, BET founder, Bob Johnson had made an offer to purchase the team. Eventually, he would be turned down by Shinn and he was granted the ownership of the new Charlotte franchise in return. Michael Jordan had also made a bid for the Hornets and Johnson would invite Jordan to become a part-owner and the President of Basketball Operations for the Bobcats. Last summer, Johnson revealed his plans to sell the team and Michael Jordan purchased the Bobcats a few weeks ago.

While George Shinn said a lot of bad things about the city of Charlotte, in 2008, he admitted that he made a mistake by relocating the Hornets to New Orleans. He said that if he had been given another chance that he would have kept the team in Charlotte. Shinn would also offer some advice to Bob Johnson while running the Bobcats, he told him to not turn on the fans. Despite the warning from Shinn, Johnson disgraced himself and the team suffered because of it. Often, George Shinn has wished luck to the Charlotte Bobcats. He has also said that he is looking to change the identity of the New Orleans Hornets. It is possible that he may be looking to change the name of the Hornets.

More than anything, the NBA fans in Charlotte want the Hornets back. Michael Jordan did not bring the old franchise back, but he did design the new jerseys for the Bobcats. Those new jerseys look a lot like the ones that the Hornets used to wear during their early days in Charlotte. Recently, Michael Jordan spoke of changing the name of the Bobcats. He said that he has made a committment to the city and to the franchise. Because of that, he is willing to change the name if the people want him to so badly. But, Jordan said that it was a financial committment to change the name and the logo of the team. However, he is willing to make any changes that the people want. It appears that the people still want the Hornets back, so if he has to, Jordan may work some magic tricks and replace the Charlotte Bobcats with the Charlotte Hornets, minus Chris Paul.

The Return of the Charlotte Hornets

Shaquille O'Neal could return to Miami?

Before his ugly departure from Miami to Phoenix, the Miami Heat and Shaquille O'Neal were a match made in heaven. He proved that he could get along with a young star. Most importantly, that young star was able to give him his first NBA title without Kobe Bryant. Going into the 2006-2007 season, everything was looking good for the post-Lakers Shaq.

However, the good times came to an end, when Dwyane Wade was injured. He was unable to return to fighting shape and that would cost the Heat in the long-run. It is often said that Shaq does not play unless his team can win without him. In Miami, he never had a problem with his strong play. The play of Wade carried the team, but when he went down, Shaq could not carry the team.

The injury to Dwyane Wade ended up proving to be worse than expected and Shaq was forced to become the focal point of the team, early in the next season. It was then that he proved that age had caught up with him. Under the leadership of Shaq and Shaq alone, the Miami Heat went down. Halfway through the season, the Heat were the worst team in the NBA and O'Neal was being shipped out to Phoenix. The next season, a healthy Wade, but no one outside of Haslem, from the championship squad remained. They made the playoffs, but Shaq did not. It was the first time since 1993 that the NBA Playoffs did not feature O'Neal. Having traded for Shaq to win an NBA title, the Phoenix Suns unloaded him during the offseason.

Currently, Shaquille O'Neal plays with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He is in the final year of his contract that he had signed with Miami in 2005. While he has enjoyed playing with the Cavs, they are going to be looking for youth this offseason. The Miami Heat have lacked a strong big man since the departure of Shaq and they have placed their bets on landing Amare Stoudemire and/or Chris Bosh. No other team in the league has as much salary cap space as Miami when the season ends. Even with all of the perks of coming to Miami, those players may choose to sign with a team already contending, or they may choose to stay put. But, for Shaq, his options are limited and he could work with the Heat, again. They traded him out of desperation, but with Wade playing the best basketball of his career and with Michael Beasley in the mix, Miami could contend with Shaq.

Back in 2008, Shaquille O'Neal stated that he would either return to the Los Angeles Lakers, or retire. But, his stint in Cleveland has made it clear that he has a lot left in the tank and that he could never return to play with Kobe Bryant. After all, since he left, he has played with all of his rivals. But, he and Dwyane Wade never had a rivalry and Shaq has proven that he is willing to take a pay cut if it means that he will win. Since he left, the Heat organization has hired better trainers, so if he comes down with an injury, it will not be as serious and he will not miss as many games that he used to.

Before his ugly departure from Miami to Phoenix, the Miami Heat and Shaquille O'Neal were a match made in heaven. He proved that he could get along with a young star. Most importantly, that young star was able to give him his first NBA title without Kobe Bryant. Going into the 2006-2007 season, everything was looking good for the post-Lakers Shaq.

However, the good times came to an end, when Dwyane Wade was injured. He was unable to return to fighting shape and that would cost the Heat in the long-run. It is often said that Shaq does not play unless his team can win without him. In Miami, he never had a problem with his strong play. The play of Wade carried the team, but when he went down, Shaq could not carry the team.

The injury to Dwyane Wade ended up proving to be worse than expected and Shaq was forced to become the focal point of the team, early in the next season. It was then that he proved that age had caught up with him. Under the leadership of Shaq and Shaq alone, the Miami Heat went down. Halfway through the season, the Heat were the worst team in the NBA and O'Neal was being shipped out to Phoenix. The next season, a healthy Wade, but no one outside of Haslem, from the championship squad remained. They made the playoffs, but Shaq did not. It was the first time since 1993 that the NBA Playoffs did not feature O'Neal. Having traded for Shaq to win an NBA title, the Phoenix Suns unloaded him during the offseason.

Currently, Shaquille O'Neal plays with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He is in the final year of his contract that he had signed with Miami in 2005. While he has enjoyed playing with the Cavs, they are going to be looking for youth this offseason. The Miami Heat have lacked a strong big man since the departure of Shaq and they have placed their bets on landing Amare Stoudemire and/or Chris Bosh. No other team in the league has as much salary cap space as Miami when the season ends. Even with all of the perks of coming to Miami, those players may choose to sign with a team already contending, or they may choose to stay put. But, for Shaq, his options are limited and he could work with the Heat, again. They traded him out of desperation, but with Wade playing the best basketball of his career and with Michael Beasley in the mix, Miami could contend with Shaq.

Back in 2008, Shaquille O'Neal stated that he would either return to the Los Angeles Lakers, or retire. But, his stint in Cleveland has made it clear that he has a lot left in the tank and that he could never return to play with Kobe Bryant. After all, since he left, he has played with all of his rivals. But, he and Dwyane Wade never had a rivalry and Shaq has proven that he is willing to take a pay cut if it means that he will win. Since he left, the Heat organization has hired better trainers, so if he comes down with an injury, it will not be as serious and he will not miss as many games that he used to.

Shaquille O'Neal could return to Miami?

Had Tracy McGrady stayed in Toronto...

Now with his fourth NBA team, not too many people remember where Tracy McGrady actually began his career. For those who do not know, McGrady was drafted straight from high school by the Toronto Raptors. At the time, the Raptors were looking for a big-name star, having just entered the league two years prior. The addition of T-Mac did not bolster them, but he was a building block.

The following season, Tracy McGrady's older cousin, Vince Carter entered the NBA. While the Raptors did not draft him, they corrected their mistake by trading for him. At the start of the season, it was decided that Carter should be the focal point of the team. After all, he was older and he benefited from having played four years of college basketball. Having the cousins feeding off of each other helped the Raptors to their best record in franchise history, at the time.

With Vince Carter receiving many comparisons to Michael Jordan, Tracy McGrady could have easily received comparisons to Scottie Pippen. Had Tracy McGrady stayed in Toronto, he could have still been a star, but just under the light of Vince Carter. There is a chance that he would not have received as many injuries and he could have gotten past the first round a lot sooner. But, as great as Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady were, individually, they could have been a lot better with help. When speaking of those players, most critics and fans agree that with a proper supporting cast, they could have been just as renowned as the likes of Kobe Bryant.

More than likely, having the duo of Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, from the gate, would have resulted in more wins for the Raptors and more wins than what they have, now. Michael Jordan struggled early on to lead the Bulls to win until he found his sidekick in Pippen. But, had he had him from the beginning, it probably would not have taken him seven years to win a championship. Had Tracy McGrady been willing to play the role of Robin to the Batman of Vince Carter, he probably would have been a bigger star. The talk of the league, right now, would not be Raptors' star, Chris Bosh, possibly leaving for another team. Instead, the talks would have been more like the Toronto Raptors clinch the first playoff berth of the season.

Tracy McGrady could have become one of the top players in the NBA in Toronto. Vince Carter was already doing so. Had he had a proper teammate, his skills could have developed, but in a better way. Plus, he would have learned how to tone his game to compliment that of Carter. Paitence and a bit of maturity could have given Tracy McGrady everything that he wanted and still does not have.

Now with his fourth NBA team, not too many people remember where Tracy McGrady actually began his career. For those who do not know, McGrady was drafted straight from high school by the Toronto Raptors. At the time, the Raptors were looking for a big-name star, having just entered the league two years prior. The addition of T-Mac did not bolster them, but he was a building block.

The following season, Tracy McGrady's older cousin, Vince Carter entered the NBA. While the Raptors did not draft him, they corrected their mistake by trading for him. At the start of the season, it was decided that Carter should be the focal point of the team. After all, he was older and he benefited from having played four years of college basketball. Having the cousins feeding off of each other helped the Raptors to their best record in franchise history, at the time.

With Vince Carter receiving many comparisons to Michael Jordan, Tracy McGrady could have easily received comparisons to Scottie Pippen. Had Tracy McGrady stayed in Toronto, he could have still been a star, but just under the light of Vince Carter. There is a chance that he would not have received as many injuries and he could have gotten past the first round a lot sooner. But, as great as Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady were, individually, they could have been a lot better with help. When speaking of those players, most critics and fans agree that with a proper supporting cast, they could have been just as renowned as the likes of Kobe Bryant.

More than likely, having the duo of Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, from the gate, would have resulted in more wins for the Raptors and more wins than what they have, now. Michael Jordan struggled early on to lead the Bulls to win until he found his sidekick in Pippen. But, had he had him from the beginning, it probably would not have taken him seven years to win a championship. Had Tracy McGrady been willing to play the role of Robin to the Batman of Vince Carter, he probably would have been a bigger star. The talk of the league, right now, would not be Raptors' star, Chris Bosh, possibly leaving for another team. Instead, the talks would have been more like the Toronto Raptors clinch the first playoff berth of the season.

Tracy McGrady could have become one of the top players in the NBA in Toronto. Vince Carter was already doing so. Had he had a proper teammate, his skills could have developed, but in a better way. Plus, he would have learned how to tone his game to compliment that of Carter. Paitence and a bit of maturity could have given Tracy McGrady everything that he wanted and still does not have.

Had Tracy McGrady stayed in Toronto...

The NBA without Allen Iverson

Love him, hate him, have no opinion, no one can doubt that Allen Iverson has had an incredible impact on the NBA over the past fourteen years. With everything going on in his personal life, it would not be out of the question to assume that he has played his final NBA game. A few years ago, no one would have guessed that Iverson would be ending his career in such a manner. Before the recent debate that surrounds Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James, the NBA was all about Allen Iverson.

Ten years ago, the future appeared bright for Allen Iverson. With no formidable supporting cast around him, he led the Philadelphia 76ers to the best record in the Eastern Conference in 2001. They would storm through the playoffs that year until losing to the Lakers in the Finals. It appeared as if Iverson would be on top forever. But, he became one of many great players to be stuck on bad teams. The 76ers' organization built around Allen Iverson and Allen Iverson only.

Because the franchise made a decision to have Allen Iverson be a one-man show, everything was on his shoulders. Following the 2000-2001 season, the Philadelphia 76ers peaked. Each season, Iverson became better and better, but the Sixers became worse and worse. Before LeBron James was added to the equation, the NBA tried to market an East-West rivalry between Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant. The separation came when the Sixers became one of the worst teams in the NBA. Following the decline, Iverson would end up leaving the team, himself, to become the sidekick of Carmelo Anthony in Denver.

In 2006-2007, Allen Iverson was still upon the best players in the NBA. He was credited as a great player on a bad team. At the time, Iverson was the leading scorer in the leage. Many suggested that the Nuggets would become contenders with the top two scorers in the league on the same team. But, with the Nuggets, Iverson went from being one of the NBA's top players to just another secondary scorer. By 2008, he had served his time with Denver and they moved him to the Detroit Pistons. Any star power that he had was lost by the time this move was made. He averaged career lows in scoring and he became an afterthought. In the time since then, Allen Iverson has floated around.

Following a short stint with the Memphis Grizzlies, Allen Iverson returned home to Philadelphia. They were not willing to take much of a chance on him, but they signed him for one year. With the illness of his four-year-old daughter, Messiah, and his impending divorce, Allen Iverson took some time off. He would later reveal that he was done for the season. But, by the looks of things, he will be done for good. The NBA has already moved on, but Allen Iverson still remained in the league. It is one thing to still play, but without the spotlight, but next season Iverson may not play at all. Is the sports media ready for an NBA without Allen Iverson.

Love him, hate him, or have no opinion, no one can doubt that Allen Iverson has had an incredible impact on the NBA.

Love him, hate him, have no opinion, no one can doubt that Allen Iverson has had an incredible impact on the NBA over the past fourteen years. With everything going on in his personal life, it would not be out of the question to assume that he has played his final NBA game. A few years ago, no one would have guessed that Iverson would be ending his career in such a manner. Before the recent debate that surrounds Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James, the NBA was all about Allen Iverson.

Ten years ago, the future appeared bright for Allen Iverson. With no formidable supporting cast around him, he led the Philadelphia 76ers to the best record in the Eastern Conference in 2001. They would storm through the playoffs that year until losing to the Lakers in the Finals. It appeared as if Iverson would be on top forever. But, he became one of many great players to be stuck on bad teams. The 76ers' organization built around Allen Iverson and Allen Iverson only.

Because the franchise made a decision to have Allen Iverson be a one-man show, everything was on his shoulders. Following the 2000-2001 season, the Philadelphia 76ers peaked. Each season, Iverson became better and better, but the Sixers became worse and worse. Before LeBron James was added to the equation, the NBA tried to market an East-West rivalry between Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant. The separation came when the Sixers became one of the worst teams in the NBA. Following the decline, Iverson would end up leaving the team, himself, to become the sidekick of Carmelo Anthony in Denver.

In 2006-2007, Allen Iverson was still upon the best players in the NBA. He was credited as a great player on a bad team. At the time, Iverson was the leading scorer in the leage. Many suggested that the Nuggets would become contenders with the top two scorers in the league on the same team. But, with the Nuggets, Iverson went from being one of the NBA's top players to just another secondary scorer. By 2008, he had served his time with Denver and they moved him to the Detroit Pistons. Any star power that he had was lost by the time this move was made. He averaged career lows in scoring and he became an afterthought. In the time since then, Allen Iverson has floated around.

Following a short stint with the Memphis Grizzlies, Allen Iverson returned home to Philadelphia. They were not willing to take much of a chance on him, but they signed him for one year. With the illness of his four-year-old daughter, Messiah, and his impending divorce, Allen Iverson took some time off. He would later reveal that he was done for the season. But, by the looks of things, he will be done for good. The NBA has already moved on, but Allen Iverson still remained in the league. It is one thing to still play, but without the spotlight, but next season Iverson may not play at all. Is the sports media ready for an NBA without Allen Iverson.

Love him, hate him, or have no opinion, no one can doubt that Allen Iverson has had an incredible impact on the NBA.

The NBA without Allen Iverson

Is Reggie Bullock too good for College?

Reggie Bullock is considered among the best players in high school basketball. Because of his spectactular play for Kinston High for the past four years, including a state title in North Carolina, during his sophomore year, recruiters have been all over Bullock. The 6'6 guard has already committed himself to the University of North Carolina for the upcoming 2010-2011 season. However, if he is as good as most sports analysts think that he is, Bullock will be another one-and-done player.

The most-notable one-and-done players in the NBA are Kevin Durant and Derrick Rose. In their short time in the league, both players are regarded as the top ten players. Both players are leading their teams into playoff contention. At the tender age of 19, Rose almost led his team to the upset over the defending-champion Boston Celtics. Durant is currently setting scoring records in his third season. Had this been a few years ago, neither of those players would have gone to college.

It has been four years since the NBA ruled that a player could not go straight from high school into the NBA, but looking at the talent that Bullock has, it would not be crazy to assume that he could lead a team in the NBA to a playoff berth. Reggie Bullock is the best talent from his area since Jerry Stackhouse and a lot of people have predicted that he will be much better than Stackhouse. During his heyday, Stackhouse was a very good player. If Bullock is better than that, would he be entertaining colleges if the NBA was available to him as soon as he graduates?

There is a chance that Reggie Bullock is too good for college.

Reggie Bullock is considered among the best players in high school basketball. Because of his spectactular play for Kinston High for the past four years, including a state title in North Carolina, during his sophomore year, recruiters have been all over Bullock. The 6'6 guard has already committed himself to the University of North Carolina for the upcoming 2010-2011 season. However, if he is as good as most sports analysts think that he is, Bullock will be another one-and-done player.

The most-notable one-and-done players in the NBA are Kevin Durant and Derrick Rose. In their short time in the league, both players are regarded as the top ten players. Both players are leading their teams into playoff contention. At the tender age of 19, Rose almost led his team to the upset over the defending-champion Boston Celtics. Durant is currently setting scoring records in his third season. Had this been a few years ago, neither of those players would have gone to college.

It has been four years since the NBA ruled that a player could not go straight from high school into the NBA, but looking at the talent that Bullock has, it would not be crazy to assume that he could lead a team in the NBA to a playoff berth. Reggie Bullock is the best talent from his area since Jerry Stackhouse and a lot of people have predicted that he will be much better than Stackhouse. During his heyday, Stackhouse was a very good player. If Bullock is better than that, would he be entertaining colleges if the NBA was available to him as soon as he graduates?

There is a chance that Reggie Bullock is too good for college.

Is Reggie Bullock too good for College?

John Wall is NBA Bound

It has been five years since the NBA forced incoming rookies to attend one year of college before entering the draft. The league was growing tired of having immature players that were taking too long to develop. In the time since implementing the rule, the league has fixed their problems, but created a major problem within college basketball. Much like the teams in the NBA, college teams would love to build around certain players. But, players that would have not gone to college in the first place are going for one year and then leaving for the NBA.

While he has not made an official statement, it appears likely that Kentucky guard, John Wall, will become the latest college player to be "one and done." Out of all of the college players in the NCAA, many consider Wall to be the best. With all of the struggling teams in the NBA, they are hoping that they can land a lottery pick. More than likely, John Wall will be drafted in the top five, if he were to enter the draft following March Madness. This is the season where college players make or break. Currently, Wall is considered the best player in college basketball, but a wrong move in the tournament could cost him a draft pick.

However, if Wall performs well, he could see his draft stock improve. This will likely determine what he chooses to do next season. But, it currently appears as if John Wall will be declaring himself eligible for the upcoming 2010 NBA Draft following the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

It has been five years since the NBA forced incoming rookies to attend one year of college before entering the draft. The league was growing tired of having immature players that were taking too long to develop. In the time since implementing the rule, the league has fixed their problems, but created a major problem within college basketball. Much like the teams in the NBA, college teams would love to build around certain players. But, players that would have not gone to college in the first place are going for one year and then leaving for the NBA.

While he has not made an official statement, it appears likely that Kentucky guard, John Wall, will become the latest college player to be "one and done." Out of all of the college players in the NCAA, many consider Wall to be the best. With all of the struggling teams in the NBA, they are hoping that they can land a lottery pick. More than likely, John Wall will be drafted in the top five, if he were to enter the draft following March Madness. This is the season where college players make or break. Currently, Wall is considered the best player in college basketball, but a wrong move in the tournament could cost him a draft pick.

However, if Wall performs well, he could see his draft stock improve. This will likely determine what he chooses to do next season. But, it currently appears as if John Wall will be declaring himself eligible for the upcoming 2010 NBA Draft following the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

John Wall is NBA Bound

The ABA lacks organization

Ten years ago, the league that gave the NBA an historic run for its money came back. Initially, the league was marketed as a rival to the establishment, much like the original ABA. However, their run as a competitor to the NBA ended when the league took a year off to reorganize. Upon its return, the ABA found itself as a league that is only a bit better than high school basketball without the organization.

The ABA CEO, Joe Newman sometimes insists that his league can compete with the NBA. It is possible that the new ABA could compete with the NBA, but some changes will have to take place first. Each year, the league takes on more teams than it can handle and only a few teams are able to make it throughout the season. Not only does this effect the season schedule, but a lot of money is lost like this. Each year, Newman promises that his league will be a competitor for the following season, but each year is more of the same.

Select media outlets have attempted to follow the ABA, but they lack the organization for any media outlet to properly follow them. The main reason that they do not have the top basketball players, or even some of the lesser-known talent is because of their structure. This is not saying that the ABA will never become an organized league, but right now they just do not have it. If the ABA were to return to their original format that they planned to bring in 2000, they could become a serious threat to the NBA. A wide open opportunity could have been the league going after Allen Iverson when it appeared that the NBA had passed on him, but they watched as he retired and returned to his original Philadelphia 76ers.

Ten years ago, the league that gave the NBA an historic run for its money came back. Initially, the league was marketed as a rival to the establishment, much like the original ABA. However, their run as a competitor to the NBA ended when the league took a year off to reorganize. Upon its return, the ABA found itself as a league that is only a bit better than high school basketball without the organization.

The ABA CEO, Joe Newman sometimes insists that his league can compete with the NBA. It is possible that the new ABA could compete with the NBA, but some changes will have to take place first. Each year, the league takes on more teams than it can handle and only a few teams are able to make it throughout the season. Not only does this effect the season schedule, but a lot of money is lost like this. Each year, Newman promises that his league will be a competitor for the following season, but each year is more of the same.

Select media outlets have attempted to follow the ABA, but they lack the organization for any media outlet to properly follow them. The main reason that they do not have the top basketball players, or even some of the lesser-known talent is because of their structure. This is not saying that the ABA will never become an organized league, but right now they just do not have it. If the ABA were to return to their original format that they planned to bring in 2000, they could become a serious threat to the NBA. A wide open opportunity could have been the league going after Allen Iverson when it appeared that the NBA had passed on him, but they watched as he retired and returned to his original Philadelphia 76ers.

The ABA lacks organization

Kevin Garnett was Let Down by Minnesota

Long before his days as a Boston Celtic, Kevin Garnett began his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves. At the time, the team was only seven years old. The Minnesota franchise was the official return of Minneapolis to the NBA after the Lakers had relocated for Los Angeles. Like many expansion franchises, the Minnesota Timberwolves struggled in its early years, losing out on such stars as Shaquille O'Neal and Chris Webber. However, in 1995, their luck would change.

In the summer of 1995, the Minnesota Timberwolves earned the fifth overall pick in the NBA Draft. That season had some unusual twists and turns. High school phenom, Kevin Garnett shocked the sports media when he revealed that he would not be attending college for the following season. Instead, he chose to go straight into the NBA. Because of his youth, some critics doubted him and teams passed on him. Desperate for some youthful energy, the Timberwolves took a chance on him.

The arrival of Kevin Garnett did not have an immediate impact, but the team did improve upon its record from the previous season. Kevin Garnett helped the team improve by five games, but they were still far from the playoffs. However, the next season, the executives that ran the organization felt that they should build around their young star in Garnett. The result of this decision was KG leading the Wolves to a 40-42 record and their first-ever playoff appearance. Because of their record, the Wolves landed a very-talented Houston Rockets team that swept them from the playoffs. The following season, Garnett's play improved and the Wolves improved to 45-37.

Each season, Kevin Garnett would put up MVP-like numbers, but his team managed to lose in the first round each year. That was until 2004, when they team added veterans, such as Latrell Sprewell and Sam Cassell. Those additions and the continued growth of Garnett would lead to the Wolves posting the best record in franchise history at 58-24. Not only was it the best record in franchise history, but it was also the best record in the Western Conference that season. Having led his team to a third-consecutive 50 win season and the best record in the West, Kevin Garnett was awarded the NBA MVP award. The team would go straight to the Western Conference Finals, only to lose in six games to the more-experienced Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite losing in the Conference Finals that season, Kevin Garnett and the Timberwolves were expected to be contenders the next season. Like the previous season, the Wolves got off to a quick start, but soon the team would fall apart. Instead of another 50-win season, the Timberwolves posted a 44-38 record and missed the NBA playoffs for the first time since 1996. While the team was not in the playoffs, Kevin Garnett was still among the best big men in the NBA. Because he had been with the team before they had a history, Garnett did not want to leave. But, each year, they became worse and worse until they were a bad team, period.

Now, Kevin Garnett is only a shell of the player that he was in Minnesota from 2004 through 2007, but he is playing for a good team.

Long before his days as a Boston Celtic, Kevin Garnett began his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves. At the time, the team was only seven years old. The Minnesota franchise was the official return of Minneapolis to the NBA after the Lakers had relocated for Los Angeles. Like many expansion franchises, the Minnesota Timberwolves struggled in its early years, losing out on such stars as Shaquille O'Neal and Chris Webber. However, in 1995, their luck would change.

In the summer of 1995, the Minnesota Timberwolves earned the fifth overall pick in the NBA Draft. That season had some unusual twists and turns. High school phenom, Kevin Garnett shocked the sports media when he revealed that he would not be attending college for the following season. Instead, he chose to go straight into the NBA. Because of his youth, some critics doubted him and teams passed on him. Desperate for some youthful energy, the Timberwolves took a chance on him.

The arrival of Kevin Garnett did not have an immediate impact, but the team did improve upon its record from the previous season. Kevin Garnett helped the team improve by five games, but they were still far from the playoffs. However, the next season, the executives that ran the organization felt that they should build around their young star in Garnett. The result of this decision was KG leading the Wolves to a 40-42 record and their first-ever playoff appearance. Because of their record, the Wolves landed a very-talented Houston Rockets team that swept them from the playoffs. The following season, Garnett's play improved and the Wolves improved to 45-37.

Each season, Kevin Garnett would put up MVP-like numbers, but his team managed to lose in the first round each year. That was until 2004, when they team added veterans, such as Latrell Sprewell and Sam Cassell. Those additions and the continued growth of Garnett would lead to the Wolves posting the best record in franchise history at 58-24. Not only was it the best record in franchise history, but it was also the best record in the Western Conference that season. Having led his team to a third-consecutive 50 win season and the best record in the West, Kevin Garnett was awarded the NBA MVP award. The team would go straight to the Western Conference Finals, only to lose in six games to the more-experienced Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite losing in the Conference Finals that season, Kevin Garnett and the Timberwolves were expected to be contenders the next season. Like the previous season, the Wolves got off to a quick start, but soon the team would fall apart. Instead of another 50-win season, the Timberwolves posted a 44-38 record and missed the NBA playoffs for the first time since 1996. While the team was not in the playoffs, Kevin Garnett was still among the best big men in the NBA. Because he had been with the team before they had a history, Garnett did not want to leave. But, each year, they became worse and worse until they were a bad team, period.

Now, Kevin Garnett is only a shell of the player that he was in Minnesota from 2004 through 2007, but he is playing for a good team.

Kevin Garnett was Let Down by Minnesota

Aaron Brooks has kept the Houston Rockets alive This Season

Last season, it appeared that things had finally come together for the Houston Rockets. After years of being an average team in the NBA, they emerged with the second-best record in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, the Rockets fell upon the shoulders of Ron Artest and their longtime center, Yao Ming. Together, they defeated Portland in the first round. The Rockets had not won a playoff series since 1997 and they pushed the eventual NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers to seven games in the second round. In game three, the Rockets would lose their franchise, Yao Ming.

The injury that he took in game three was tougher than previously thought and it was revealed that Yao would be out for the rest of the series. After the series was over, Yao announced that he would be out for the entire 2009-2010 season. Tracy McGrady had been hobbled with injuries the entire season and he revealed that he wanted no parts of the Houston Rockets. Because of this, many sports analysts predicted that the Rockets would finish as one of the worst teams in the league.

However, behind the strong play of Aaron Brooks, the Houston Rockets are maintaining a winning records, but they are not in playoff contention. Because of the level of talent in the Western Conference, the Rockets are far from being a playoff team, but they have something to build upon now that Tracy McGrady is gone. If they cannot keep Yao Ming healthy, Brooks may become an integral part of the team. As it currently stands, he is just the fill-in until the stars are healthy. However, the stars have left with the only one being Ming. Had it not been for the play of All-Star, Aaron Brooks, the Houston Rockets really would have slipped into being a lot more than a good team that is not going to the playoffs.

Last season, it appeared that things had finally come together for the Houston Rockets. After years of being an average team in the NBA, they emerged with the second-best record in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, the Rockets fell upon the shoulders of Ron Artest and their longtime center, Yao Ming. Together, they defeated Portland in the first round. The Rockets had not won a playoff series since 1997 and they pushed the eventual NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers to seven games in the second round. In game three, the Rockets would lose their franchise, Yao Ming.

The injury that he took in game three was tougher than previously thought and it was revealed that Yao would be out for the rest of the series. After the series was over, Yao announced that he would be out for the entire 2009-2010 season. Tracy McGrady had been hobbled with injuries the entire season and he revealed that he wanted no parts of the Houston Rockets. Because of this, many sports analysts predicted that the Rockets would finish as one of the worst teams in the league.

However, behind the strong play of Aaron Brooks, the Houston Rockets are maintaining a winning records, but they are not in playoff contention. Because of the level of talent in the Western Conference, the Rockets are far from being a playoff team, but they have something to build upon now that Tracy McGrady is gone. If they cannot keep Yao Ming healthy, Brooks may become an integral part of the team. As it currently stands, he is just the fill-in until the stars are healthy. However, the stars have left with the only one being Ming. Had it not been for the play of All-Star, Aaron Brooks, the Houston Rockets really would have slipped into being a lot more than a good team that is not going to the playoffs.

Aaron Brooks has kept the Houston Rockets alive This Season

Kobe Bryant downs Raptors, ends Losing Streak

The Lakers have been on an incredible streak, as of late, but it is nothing to brag about. For the first time in over two years, the Lakers had lost three games in a row. Most teams in the league go through these tough stretches, but for Kobe Bryant, things become extremely difficult. He is not a fan of losing, he did his fair share of it from 2004 until 2007. Now that he is contending, he has no intentions of going back.

Every player for the Los Angeles Lakers gave their opinion on the losing streak. However, when Kobe spoke, he made the most sense. He said that the losing streak was self-inflicted and they were going to do everything in their power to end it. That was easier said than done when they found themselves down by double digits in Orlando. Kobe Bryant could not come through in the clutch the way that he did throughout the season and the Lakers dropped three straight games.

After a tough road trip, the Lakers returned home to face the Toronto Raptors. In the past, Kobe Bryant has played well at home against the Raptors. In 2006, he scored a franchise-record 81 points at home against the Raptors. Their most-recent matchup was last night and it was up to Bryant to come through in the clutch, once again. However, this time, he did not put up 81 points, instead he chose to hit the game-winning jump shot with 1.9 seconds left on the clock. Most people would be happy with ending a three-game losing streak with a game-winning jump shot and in front of a sell-out crowd at home, but most people aren't Kobe Bryant.

While he is happy with the win, Kobe still does not feel like the Lakers have the sense of urgency that they should have with the Dallas Mavericks creeping up in their rearview.

The Lakers have been on an incredible streak, as of late, but it is nothing to brag about. For the first time in over two years, the Lakers had lost three games in a row. Most teams in the league go through these tough stretches, but for Kobe Bryant, things become extremely difficult. He is not a fan of losing, he did his fair share of it from 2004 until 2007. Now that he is contending, he has no intentions of going back.

Every player for the Los Angeles Lakers gave their opinion on the losing streak. However, when Kobe spoke, he made the most sense. He said that the losing streak was self-inflicted and they were going to do everything in their power to end it. That was easier said than done when they found themselves down by double digits in Orlando. Kobe Bryant could not come through in the clutch the way that he did throughout the season and the Lakers dropped three straight games.

After a tough road trip, the Lakers returned home to face the Toronto Raptors. In the past, Kobe Bryant has played well at home against the Raptors. In 2006, he scored a franchise-record 81 points at home against the Raptors. Their most-recent matchup was last night and it was up to Bryant to come through in the clutch, once again. However, this time, he did not put up 81 points, instead he chose to hit the game-winning jump shot with 1.9 seconds left on the clock. Most people would be happy with ending a three-game losing streak with a game-winning jump shot and in front of a sell-out crowd at home, but most people aren't Kobe Bryant.

While he is happy with the win, Kobe still does not feel like the Lakers have the sense of urgency that they should have with the Dallas Mavericks creeping up in their rearview.

Kobe Bryant downs Raptors, ends Losing Streak

Kevin Durant has Thunder in Playoff Contention

There has often been discussion about Kevin Durant. Ever since his senior year of high school, there has been a lot of hype surrounding him. But, just as he was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics, they unloaded Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. They pinned their hopes on the shoulders of Kevin Durant. During the 2008 offseason, the Sonics shook up the basketball world when they became the newest franchise in the NBA, the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a new city, the man was Kevin Durant.

Much like in his rookie season, Kevin Durant put up incredible numbers in the inaugural season of the Thunder. Throughout the season, Oklahoma City struggled to win games, while Durant shined. This would change towards the end of the season when his play and the play of his team began coming together. They got their act together too late in the season. However, this season, Durant has played at an MVP level and the Thunder are one of the best teams in the Western Conference.

Because the team is so young, there has been a lot of doubt about them holding out and actually making the playoffs. There is no more doubt surrounding the Thunder. Kevin Durant went on an incredible scoring streak, in which his Thunder began winning games. With the decline of the San Antonio Spurs, the Oklahoma City Thunder are looking to become the new establishment team of the NBA. Given the strong play of Durant and his promise to remain with the Thunder beyond 2011, the team will be playoff contenders for years to come. With the way that things are going, the Thunder will probably reach their first playoff berth this season.

There has often been discussion about Kevin Durant. Ever since his senior year of high school, there has been a lot of hype surrounding him. But, just as he was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics, they unloaded Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. They pinned their hopes on the shoulders of Kevin Durant. During the 2008 offseason, the Sonics shook up the basketball world when they became the newest franchise in the NBA, the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a new city, the man was Kevin Durant.

Much like in his rookie season, Kevin Durant put up incredible numbers in the inaugural season of the Thunder. Throughout the season, Oklahoma City struggled to win games, while Durant shined. This would change towards the end of the season when his play and the play of his team began coming together. They got their act together too late in the season. However, this season, Durant has played at an MVP level and the Thunder are one of the best teams in the Western Conference.

Because the team is so young, there has been a lot of doubt about them holding out and actually making the playoffs. There is no more doubt surrounding the Thunder. Kevin Durant went on an incredible scoring streak, in which his Thunder began winning games. With the decline of the San Antonio Spurs, the Oklahoma City Thunder are looking to become the new establishment team of the NBA. Given the strong play of Durant and his promise to remain with the Thunder beyond 2011, the team will be playoff contenders for years to come. With the way that things are going, the Thunder will probably reach their first playoff berth this season.

Kevin Durant has Thunder in Playoff Contention

Ron Artest channels Dennis Rodman

The most eccentric player in NBA history is by far Dennis Rodman, but he is getting a run for his money from Ron Artest. Ever since he first landed in the NBA, Artest has been one of the wildest players in the league. He came into the league right after the retirement of Rodman and he played for the Chicago Bulls. Artest was apart of the team that followed the second three-peat of the Bulls. There have been many parallels between Ron Artest and Dennis Rodman.

Right before the big matchup with the Orlando Magic, Ron Artest died his hair purple and gold, to match the logo of the Lakers. He had the word "defense" colored in purple in three different areas of his head and in three different languages. Still, it was not enough to bring the Lakers a win. Instead, the team had their third consecutive loss, which prompted Artest to shave his head bald. While he has always been a bit wild, he has turned the weird factor up since he signed with the Lakers.

The role that he plays with the Lakers is much like the role that Rodman played with the Bulls. Both men were very hard to tire out and both men have played under Phil Jackson. In the past, Ron Artest was viewed as a bad boy in the NBA. He was probably best-known for his right with Ben Wallace, of the Detroit Pistons. After being suspended for an entire season, when Artest returned to his team, he did not belong. With the Indiana Pacers looking to craft a new image, he was traded to the Sacramento Kings. Following his unsuccessful stint with the Kings, Artest was traded to the Houston Rockets and he gave Kobe Bryant a run for his money in their playoff matchup against the Lakers.

Following the season, he signed with the Lakers and he has become the official rebounder and sideshow for the Lakers. This is much like how Dennis Rodman was a thorn in the side of Michael Jordan, but he later became one of his favorite teammates.

The most eccentric player in NBA history is by far Dennis Rodman, but he is getting a run for his money from Ron Artest. Ever since he first landed in the NBA, Artest has been one of the wildest players in the league. He came into the league right after the retirement of Rodman and he played for the Chicago Bulls. Artest was apart of the team that followed the second three-peat of the Bulls. There have been many parallels between Ron Artest and Dennis Rodman.

Right before the big matchup with the Orlando Magic, Ron Artest died his hair purple and gold, to match the logo of the Lakers. He had the word "defense" colored in purple in three different areas of his head and in three different languages. Still, it was not enough to bring the Lakers a win. Instead, the team had their third consecutive loss, which prompted Artest to shave his head bald. While he has always been a bit wild, he has turned the weird factor up since he signed with the Lakers.

The role that he plays with the Lakers is much like the role that Rodman played with the Bulls. Both men were very hard to tire out and both men have played under Phil Jackson. In the past, Ron Artest was viewed as a bad boy in the NBA. He was probably best-known for his right with Ben Wallace, of the Detroit Pistons. After being suspended for an entire season, when Artest returned to his team, he did not belong. With the Indiana Pacers looking to craft a new image, he was traded to the Sacramento Kings. Following his unsuccessful stint with the Kings, Artest was traded to the Houston Rockets and he gave Kobe Bryant a run for his money in their playoff matchup against the Lakers.

Following the season, he signed with the Lakers and he has become the official rebounder and sideshow for the Lakers. This is much like how Dennis Rodman was a thorn in the side of Michael Jordan, but he later became one of his favorite teammates.

Ron Artest channels Dennis Rodman

Vince Carter was the Next Michael Jordan?

When he first came into the league, there was a lot of hype surrounding Vince Carter. He hailed from the University of North Carolina and he was playing for the Toronto Raptors. Early on, he showed the people how things were done. It did not take him long to become the best dunker in the league. Aside from dunking, Carter showed that he was a great player. On the opposite side of the league was Kobe Bryant, a backup guard for the Lakers. He was not much yet, but he showed flashes of what he could be.

At the time, Michael Jordan had just retired from the NBA and the media was looking to fill that void. Often, sports analysts would ask certain NBA players, current and former, about who they felt would fill Jordan's void. Almost everyone would agree that Vince Carter was that man. Early in his career, there were many parallels between himself and Michael Jordan. But, when the man, Michael Jordan, himself, was asked about who he felt was the future, he chose Kobe Bryant.

There was never any doubt that Bryant would be a good player, but to say that he would one day become the best player in the league was outrageous. Vince Carter continued to carry the Raptors on his back and he was putting up big numbers. Meanwhile, Kobe Bryant was just stepping into the role of Robin to the Batman of Shaquille O'Neal. Even with Shaq as the leader, Kobe soon began to prove his worth. By 2000, there was not a person in the league who would not agree that Bryant was every bit as good, if not better, than Vince Carter. When Carter became injury prone and Kobe became a champion, everyone began to see exactly what Michael Jordan was saying way back in 1998.

Now, ten years later, Vince Carter has become a role playing journeyman, while Kobe Bryant has made himself into the second-best player in NBA history. So, Vince Carter was the next Michael Jordan?

When he first came into the league, there was a lot of hype surrounding Vince Carter. He hailed from the University of North Carolina and he was playing for the Toronto Raptors. Early on, he showed the people how things were done. It did not take him long to become the best dunker in the league. Aside from dunking, Carter showed that he was a great player. On the opposite side of the league was Kobe Bryant, a backup guard for the Lakers. He was not much yet, but he showed flashes of what he could be.

At the time, Michael Jordan had just retired from the NBA and the media was looking to fill that void. Often, sports analysts would ask certain NBA players, current and former, about who they felt would fill Jordan's void. Almost everyone would agree that Vince Carter was that man. Early in his career, there were many parallels between himself and Michael Jordan. But, when the man, Michael Jordan, himself, was asked about who he felt was the future, he chose Kobe Bryant.

There was never any doubt that Bryant would be a good player, but to say that he would one day become the best player in the league was outrageous. Vince Carter continued to carry the Raptors on his back and he was putting up big numbers. Meanwhile, Kobe Bryant was just stepping into the role of Robin to the Batman of Shaquille O'Neal. Even with Shaq as the leader, Kobe soon began to prove his worth. By 2000, there was not a person in the league who would not agree that Bryant was every bit as good, if not better, than Vince Carter. When Carter became injury prone and Kobe became a champion, everyone began to see exactly what Michael Jordan was saying way back in 1998.

Now, ten years later, Vince Carter has become a role playing journeyman, while Kobe Bryant has made himself into the second-best player in NBA history. So, Vince Carter was the next Michael Jordan?

Vince Carter was the Next Michael Jordan?