- That Knicks-Nets game was a great game last night, however I wouldn't be quick to call the Brooklyn Nets the Kings of NYC especially since the New York Knicks were without veteran point guard Jason Kidd. Kidd has been a huge reason why the Knicks have been one of the best teams in the East this season with his veteran leadership, without him there is a lack of ball movement and energy as well on both sides of the floor. However though I was not only dead wrong about the Nets not being a playoff team, but a Finals contender as well as long as Brook Lopez stays healthy of course.
- Looks like Brandon Knight of our Detroit Pistons is finally coming into his own, since he hit the game winning layup against the Raptors, Knight has been averaging 21 points per game. Knight had a season high 26 last night against the Blazers, absolutely abusing rookie of the year candidate point guard, Damian Lilliard. Supposedly according to his coaches the reason Knight is starting to flourish is because they told him just to “go with his instinct."
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Monday, November 26, 2012
Keep Hope Alive? Matty's Brief Thoughts
Just like the Kanye West song goes...“And I Wonder...." because even though our Detroit Lions are 4-7 at this point, I keep on thinking of teams that finished 8-8 or 9-7 and sneaked into the playoffs. I am also thinking about how last season our Lions had started off last season winning 5 straight, perhaps they could finish this season winning 5 straight to finish 9-7 and possibly back themselves into the playoffs? Maybe it is just the Honolulu Blue, Black and Silver faith in me...but like Jesse Jackson once said, Keep Hope Alive.
What's wrong with the Lions? Bigger than football?
At this point last season our Detroit Lions were 7-4, this year they are 4-7, last season they were 2nd in the NFC North, this year they are in last place behind the freaking Minnesota Vikings! Last season QB Stafford and WR Johnson were breaking records, this year they look just broken. Calvin may still be putting up yards, but he only has four touchdown receptions this year, not to mention he has been playing off an injury as well. Stafford's struggles can be duly noted as well incompleting passes that he completed last season. Not to mention last season it looked like the Lions offensive line gave Stafford plenty of time, this year? It looks like they forgot how to block. WR Titus Young looked destined for a breakout season this upcoming season yet instead has dropped easy TD passes, can not get open and is having serious off the field issues.
The only constant from last season? The secondary being mediocre, allowing big plays to happen consistently, then again maybe it is some serious coincidence with S Delmas being out for a number of games. In conclusion, the QB losing accuracy, the WRs unable to get open or drop passes, the OL forgetting how to block. I do not think this is due to a lack of talent, not at all, I know the Lions are a very talented football squad, this looks like to me however...some serious bad luck. Especially with the bad breaks that have gone our way like the missed passing interference call against the Green Bay Packers last Sunday or the referees not knowing Texans RB Forsett was clearly down on Turkey Day. To me there is no more question what is wrong with our Detroit Lions, it just seems too obvious with how unlucky this season has looked so far.
Too coincidental that we are 4-7 at this point, the opposite of the record we were at last season. My official diagnosis? We are infected with the Madden Jinx. It has become a bad omen for the Lions this season to have had Calvin Johnson on the Madden cover, it may have not gotten him but it surely looks likes it has gotten the whole team. Has to be a shame since we were just getting over the Bobby Layne curse and now we have a new one in the Madden Jinx. The good news from the past of the Madden cover is it should only last one season, so we should get back to the Lions football we were playing last season. I do challenge the Detroit Lions however from this point forward to make the Madden Jinx not look real, in fact defeat the Madden Curse, something these teams in the past nor all players have ever done. I just hope head coach Jim Schwartz, GM Martin Mayhew (though he blew it for not trading up for Jenkins in the second round), offensive coordinator Scott Linehan nor defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham become a victim if it does continue.
The only constant from last season? The secondary being mediocre, allowing big plays to happen consistently, then again maybe it is some serious coincidence with S Delmas being out for a number of games. In conclusion, the QB losing accuracy, the WRs unable to get open or drop passes, the OL forgetting how to block. I do not think this is due to a lack of talent, not at all, I know the Lions are a very talented football squad, this looks like to me however...some serious bad luck. Especially with the bad breaks that have gone our way like the missed passing interference call against the Green Bay Packers last Sunday or the referees not knowing Texans RB Forsett was clearly down on Turkey Day. To me there is no more question what is wrong with our Detroit Lions, it just seems too obvious with how unlucky this season has looked so far.
Too coincidental that we are 4-7 at this point, the opposite of the record we were at last season. My official diagnosis? We are infected with the Madden Jinx. It has become a bad omen for the Lions this season to have had Calvin Johnson on the Madden cover, it may have not gotten him but it surely looks likes it has gotten the whole team. Has to be a shame since we were just getting over the Bobby Layne curse and now we have a new one in the Madden Jinx. The good news from the past of the Madden cover is it should only last one season, so we should get back to the Lions football we were playing last season. I do challenge the Detroit Lions however from this point forward to make the Madden Jinx not look real, in fact defeat the Madden Curse, something these teams in the past nor all players have ever done. I just hope head coach Jim Schwartz, GM Martin Mayhew (though he blew it for not trading up for Jenkins in the second round), offensive coordinator Scott Linehan nor defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham become a victim if it does continue.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
NBA Preview: Eastern Conference
Eastern Conference:
Eastern Conference Finals:
New York Knicks vs Miami Heat
1. Miami Heat
Notes: After stealing Jesus Shuttlesworth himself in Ray Allen and also adding Rashard Lewis, the Heat have loaded up and are looking to repeat again. LeBron James carried the Heat to the title last season without a doubt his 45 point performance in Game 6 vs the Celtics to eventually win the series and his guarding of Kevin Durant in Games 2, 3, 4 and 5, completely shutting him down to secure his first NBA title. My question is what Dwyane Wade will show up? The lackluster one from last season or the one from the 2011 season? If the Wade we are used to is back it could make the Heat dangerous, tough to beat.
2. New York Knicks
Notes: They lost Jeremy Lin to the Houston Rockets, but gained back Raymond Felton and added a veteran hall of fame point guard in Jason Kidd. Also gained a very good defensive guard in Ronnie Brewer (compliments a pretty good defensive guard in Shumpert by the way) in free agency along with Center Marcus Camby to backup Tyson Chandler. The Knicks even brought back Rasheed Wallace out of retirement, not to mention Kurt Thomas as well. That's the main reason I can see the Knicks finishing 2nd in the East because of their depth with Felton, Smith, Melo, Amare, Chandler, Kidd, Brewer, Novak, Shumpert, Thomas, Wallace. Might be the deepest team in the league beside the Heat and I don't think that 18-7 finish under Coach Mike Woodson. Not to mention last time Carmelo Anthony came off as an Olympic gold medal winner, he went to the Comference Finals, don't think this time will be any different. My only question is can STAT stay healthy? He's already out for the first six weeks of the season, his health will determine how far they go in the playoffs.
3. Indiana Pacers
Notes: With Bulls Derrick Rose out for a long time the Indiana Pacers are determined to take over the Central Division. Coming off a 6 game series against the Heat last season, one that was nearly won by the Pacers, George Hill, Danny Granger, Paul George, David West and Roy Hibbert will be looking to do damage again this season along with new additions DJ Augustin and draft pick Lance Stephenson.
4. Boston Celtics
Notes: The Cs may have lost Ray Allen but gained Jason Terry and Leandro Barbosa not the mention the return of Jeff Green could make a huge impact as well. Rajon Rondo is clearly one of the best point guards in the league and would be the best if he had a better jump shot, however he can disappear vs any team real fast straight to the hole. Rondo is the main reason to keep aging veteran players such as Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce production going. With Rondo, Terry, the return of a really good defensive guard in Avery Bradley, Pierce, Bass, Garnett, Barbosa, Daniels, Green and draft picks Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo, the Boston Celtics are ready to prove once again they are not dead yet.
5. Chicago Bulls
Notes: Even without Derrick Rose the Chicago Bulls are still a really good defensive team, good enough to be 5th in the East. As they proved last year late in the season, they can still win enough games to be a good team without D-Rose as far as making a run in the postseason? Probably not. However it might be best for Rose to sit the year out so he won't end up having to get several knee surgeries like the once great player T-Mac.
6. Philadelphia 76ers
Notes: The Sixers may have lost Andre Iguodala to the Denver Nuggets and Lou Williams to the Atlanta Hawks this offseason but with the addition of Center Andrew Bynum, Philly has plenty of size upfront along with Spencer Hawes, Thaddeus Young and Maloy Allen. Besides that they also have a budding point guard in Jrue Holiday who just signed a 4 year, 41 million dollar contract. Sixers will always be a threat in the East now with coach Doug Collins at the helm, he knows what it takes to get that team to play tough defense and the addition of possibly the second best center in Bynum shall help, not hurt.
7. Atlanta Hawks
Notes: This offseason the Hawks were able to get rid of shooting guard Joe Johnson's big contract to Brooklyn and were also able to get rid of bust Marvin Williams. With that being said I believe they improved over this offseason especially since they still have a solid 4 and 5 in Josh Smith and Al Horford. They also have a young and upcoming point guard in Jeff Teague who is quietly making strides each season. Also added a few guards that can score off the bench like Devin Harris from the Brooklyn Nets and Lou Williams who is a great sixth man from the Sixers. Under coach Larry Drew, don't count out Atlanta, they will be sticking around.
8. Detroit Pistons
Notes: Yes I know this is a bold pick and sounds like a homer pick of mine to pick my Pistons to sneak into the postseason. However I feel their finish of 21-21 in the second half of the season was no joke under coach Lawrence Frank. Strides were made last season as the first half the Pistons were allowing over 100 points against an opponent, second half of the season? Under 95. With center Greg Monroe who averaged a double-double last season, bigger strides are expected to be made for him this season. Second year point guard Brandon Knight ought to be due for a breakout season has he has gotten bigger and faster over the summer. Draft pick Andre Drummond has looked spectacular in the pre-season if he can translate that into the season Detroit might be looking at a possible budding big 3 in Knight, Monroe and Drummond. Drummond isn't the only draft pick that could contribute now, there is also second round pick Kim English and 2011 second round draft pick Kyle Singler who could make an impact as well. I see 41-41 as a true possibility this season due to their finish last season, it might not be long now before the Pistons are good again.
9. Brooklyn Nets
Notes: How about this for a shocker? The Brooklyn Nets all of a sudden a favorite by media and some experts since the move to Brooklyn and the move for shooting guard Joe Johnson will miss the postseason. One reason I say this is even though Deron Williams is clearly one of the best point
guards in the NBA as shown from last season, just his play won't be enough to make the playoffs, he will need help. Some of this help will have to come from his frontline Kris Humphries and Brook Lopez, the question here is can Lopez stay healthy? If he can they have a chance, his play is very key to their success. Second year guard Marshon Brooks also seems promising, but another reason I feel the Nets will miss the playoffs, they were all hung up on trying to get Dwight Howard but settled for Joe Johnson instead. I feel Johnson is the most overrated and clearly most overpaid player in the league, I say this because he takes bad shots and shows no aggressiveness towards the basket. If Williams and Johnson are to be the best backcourt in the league that will most definitely have to
change.
10. Milwaukee Bucks
Notes: Fourth year point guard Brandon Jennings has failed to make the postseason since his rookie season, granted it didn't help when his then center Andrew Bogut was hurt for many games. Bogut last season was traded to Golden State for guard Monta Ellis, Jennings and Ellis together seemed promising dynamic and it was. However even though Milwaukee competed with New York and Philadelphia for a final spot, they had faltered in the end, just missing the postseason. Despite the possibilities of Jennings and Ellis's dynamic scoring, their lack of defense together is a major concern.
11. Cleveland Cavaliers
Notes: Last year's rookie of the year Kyrie Irving may continue to make strides, possibly into becoming a top ten point guard in the league this year. Second year forward Tristian Thompson seems promising and rookie shooting guard Dion Waiters to compliment Irving seems like a recipe for success. Cleveland is definitely on the rise.
12. Toronto Raptors
Notes: Toronto may be another team on the rise, they went 7-1 in the preseason and with Jose Calderon, DeMar Derozan, Landry Fields from the Knicks, Andrea Bargnani, Ed Davis and draft pick Jonas Valencunias they seem like a very promising team for the future.
13. Washington Wizards
Notes: There might be a promising backcourt in John Wall and Bradley Beal along with Nene to help on the front line that's about it though.
14. Charlotte Bobcats
Notes: With GM Michael Jordan finally making the right pick in forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, it will pay off, they won't be the worst team in the league this season. Even though Kemba Walker and Ben Gordon are essentially the same player. My question for this team is can center Bismack Biyombo make strides this season into being a decent center?
15. Orlando Magic
Notes:
Eastern Conference Finals:
New York Knicks vs Miami Heat
1. Miami Heat
Notes: After stealing Jesus Shuttlesworth himself in Ray Allen and also adding Rashard Lewis, the Heat have loaded up and are looking to repeat again. LeBron James carried the Heat to the title last season without a doubt his 45 point performance in Game 6 vs the Celtics to eventually win the series and his guarding of Kevin Durant in Games 2, 3, 4 and 5, completely shutting him down to secure his first NBA title. My question is what Dwyane Wade will show up? The lackluster one from last season or the one from the 2011 season? If the Wade we are used to is back it could make the Heat dangerous, tough to beat.
2. New York Knicks
Notes: They lost Jeremy Lin to the Houston Rockets, but gained back Raymond Felton and added a veteran hall of fame point guard in Jason Kidd. Also gained a very good defensive guard in Ronnie Brewer (compliments a pretty good defensive guard in Shumpert by the way) in free agency along with Center Marcus Camby to backup Tyson Chandler. The Knicks even brought back Rasheed Wallace out of retirement, not to mention Kurt Thomas as well. That's the main reason I can see the Knicks finishing 2nd in the East because of their depth with Felton, Smith, Melo, Amare, Chandler, Kidd, Brewer, Novak, Shumpert, Thomas, Wallace. Might be the deepest team in the league beside the Heat and I don't think that 18-7 finish under Coach Mike Woodson. Not to mention last time Carmelo Anthony came off as an Olympic gold medal winner, he went to the Comference Finals, don't think this time will be any different. My only question is can STAT stay healthy? He's already out for the first six weeks of the season, his health will determine how far they go in the playoffs.
3. Indiana Pacers
Notes: With Bulls Derrick Rose out for a long time the Indiana Pacers are determined to take over the Central Division. Coming off a 6 game series against the Heat last season, one that was nearly won by the Pacers, George Hill, Danny Granger, Paul George, David West and Roy Hibbert will be looking to do damage again this season along with new additions DJ Augustin and draft pick Lance Stephenson.
4. Boston Celtics
Notes: The Cs may have lost Ray Allen but gained Jason Terry and Leandro Barbosa not the mention the return of Jeff Green could make a huge impact as well. Rajon Rondo is clearly one of the best point guards in the league and would be the best if he had a better jump shot, however he can disappear vs any team real fast straight to the hole. Rondo is the main reason to keep aging veteran players such as Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce production going. With Rondo, Terry, the return of a really good defensive guard in Avery Bradley, Pierce, Bass, Garnett, Barbosa, Daniels, Green and draft picks Jared Sullinger and Fab Melo, the Boston Celtics are ready to prove once again they are not dead yet.
5. Chicago Bulls
Notes: Even without Derrick Rose the Chicago Bulls are still a really good defensive team, good enough to be 5th in the East. As they proved last year late in the season, they can still win enough games to be a good team without D-Rose as far as making a run in the postseason? Probably not. However it might be best for Rose to sit the year out so he won't end up having to get several knee surgeries like the once great player T-Mac.
6. Philadelphia 76ers
Notes: The Sixers may have lost Andre Iguodala to the Denver Nuggets and Lou Williams to the Atlanta Hawks this offseason but with the addition of Center Andrew Bynum, Philly has plenty of size upfront along with Spencer Hawes, Thaddeus Young and Maloy Allen. Besides that they also have a budding point guard in Jrue Holiday who just signed a 4 year, 41 million dollar contract. Sixers will always be a threat in the East now with coach Doug Collins at the helm, he knows what it takes to get that team to play tough defense and the addition of possibly the second best center in Bynum shall help, not hurt.
7. Atlanta Hawks
Notes: This offseason the Hawks were able to get rid of shooting guard Joe Johnson's big contract to Brooklyn and were also able to get rid of bust Marvin Williams. With that being said I believe they improved over this offseason especially since they still have a solid 4 and 5 in Josh Smith and Al Horford. They also have a young and upcoming point guard in Jeff Teague who is quietly making strides each season. Also added a few guards that can score off the bench like Devin Harris from the Brooklyn Nets and Lou Williams who is a great sixth man from the Sixers. Under coach Larry Drew, don't count out Atlanta, they will be sticking around.
8. Detroit Pistons
Notes: Yes I know this is a bold pick and sounds like a homer pick of mine to pick my Pistons to sneak into the postseason. However I feel their finish of 21-21 in the second half of the season was no joke under coach Lawrence Frank. Strides were made last season as the first half the Pistons were allowing over 100 points against an opponent, second half of the season? Under 95. With center Greg Monroe who averaged a double-double last season, bigger strides are expected to be made for him this season. Second year point guard Brandon Knight ought to be due for a breakout season has he has gotten bigger and faster over the summer. Draft pick Andre Drummond has looked spectacular in the pre-season if he can translate that into the season Detroit might be looking at a possible budding big 3 in Knight, Monroe and Drummond. Drummond isn't the only draft pick that could contribute now, there is also second round pick Kim English and 2011 second round draft pick Kyle Singler who could make an impact as well. I see 41-41 as a true possibility this season due to their finish last season, it might not be long now before the Pistons are good again.
9. Brooklyn Nets
Notes: How about this for a shocker? The Brooklyn Nets all of a sudden a favorite by media and some experts since the move to Brooklyn and the move for shooting guard Joe Johnson will miss the postseason. One reason I say this is even though Deron Williams is clearly one of the best point
guards in the NBA as shown from last season, just his play won't be enough to make the playoffs, he will need help. Some of this help will have to come from his frontline Kris Humphries and Brook Lopez, the question here is can Lopez stay healthy? If he can they have a chance, his play is very key to their success. Second year guard Marshon Brooks also seems promising, but another reason I feel the Nets will miss the playoffs, they were all hung up on trying to get Dwight Howard but settled for Joe Johnson instead. I feel Johnson is the most overrated and clearly most overpaid player in the league, I say this because he takes bad shots and shows no aggressiveness towards the basket. If Williams and Johnson are to be the best backcourt in the league that will most definitely have to
change.
10. Milwaukee Bucks
Notes: Fourth year point guard Brandon Jennings has failed to make the postseason since his rookie season, granted it didn't help when his then center Andrew Bogut was hurt for many games. Bogut last season was traded to Golden State for guard Monta Ellis, Jennings and Ellis together seemed promising dynamic and it was. However even though Milwaukee competed with New York and Philadelphia for a final spot, they had faltered in the end, just missing the postseason. Despite the possibilities of Jennings and Ellis's dynamic scoring, their lack of defense together is a major concern.
11. Cleveland Cavaliers
Notes: Last year's rookie of the year Kyrie Irving may continue to make strides, possibly into becoming a top ten point guard in the league this year. Second year forward Tristian Thompson seems promising and rookie shooting guard Dion Waiters to compliment Irving seems like a recipe for success. Cleveland is definitely on the rise.
12. Toronto Raptors
Notes: Toronto may be another team on the rise, they went 7-1 in the preseason and with Jose Calderon, DeMar Derozan, Landry Fields from the Knicks, Andrea Bargnani, Ed Davis and draft pick Jonas Valencunias they seem like a very promising team for the future.
13. Washington Wizards
Notes: There might be a promising backcourt in John Wall and Bradley Beal along with Nene to help on the front line that's about it though.
14. Charlotte Bobcats
Notes: With GM Michael Jordan finally making the right pick in forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, it will pay off, they won't be the worst team in the league this season. Even though Kemba Walker and Ben Gordon are essentially the same player. My question for this team is can center Bismack Biyombo make strides this season into being a decent center?
15. Orlando Magic
Notes:
Friday, October 5, 2012
MLB Playoff Predictions
MLB Playoffs:
NL Wild Card:
St. Louis over Atlanta
AL Wild Card:
Texas over Baltimore
NLDS:
Washington over St. Louis in 5
San Francisco over Cincinnati in 4
ALDS:
Detroit over Oakland in 5
New York over Texas in 5
NLCS:
San Francisco over Washington in 5
Detroit over New York in 6
World Series:
Detroit over San Francisco in 5
Thoughts: Unbelievable, to think there was actually one point in the season when the Sox were 3 games ahead of my Tigers with 16 games left that I thought we wouldn't catch up and now here I am actually picking my team to win it all. You know what they say, once you get yourself in the postseason, anything can happen, I believe if our Tigers pull it off, it will be one of those teams with the lowest victory totals to win it since the 2006 Cardinals. Speaking of the 2006 Cardinals, I was tempted to pick them to face our Tigers again with a different result however. Many intriguing potential pitching matchups to think of this postseason, Verlander vs. Sabathia, Strasburg vs Carpenter, Lincecum vs. Strasburg, Verlander vs. Lincecum, etc. I don't think there has been any two hotter teams in baseball than our Tigers and the Yankees, both 12-4 in their last 16.
Overall, I believe the way our pitching has looked lately could carry us all the way, this potential Tigers-Yankees ALCS matchup very well could determine the winner of this year's World Series champion. If intangibles are an indication then you can count on our Tigers who have just owned the Yankees lately, recently in last season's ALDS winning in 5 and in 2006 winning in 4.
Friday, August 3, 2012
NFL Preview 2012 and Playoff Predictions
Are you ready for some football? My preview for the 2012 NFL season
American Football Conference (AFC)
AFC North:
1. Baltimore Ravens
Notes: Just like last season the Ravens finish in first place, might be for the last time though with Reed, Lewis getting towards their end and the Cincinatti Bengals are clearly on the rise.
2. Cincinatti Bengals
Notes: Despite losing first round draft pick CB Dre Kirkpatrick, they added insurance with CB Terrence Newman, with 2nd year QB Dalton and 2nd year WR Green as one of the best young QB-WR tandems (besides Stafford-Johnson) the Bengals may be ready to fly.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
Notes: The Steelers really have not made any moves besides improving their offensive line with first round pick G David DeCastro and are threatened by the holdout of their star WR Mike Wallace.
4. Cleveland Browns
Notes: Cleveland improved by drafting top draft pick RB Trent Richardson who could right away be a star, at 28 years old QB Brandon Weeden might have to start right away meaning Colt McCoy's days are numbered the only thing missing in Cleveland now is a primetime WR. If they do that they will be ready to take off and fly high especially with establishing already one of the best young defenses in the league (allowed 19.2 points a game, tied for 5th in the NFL).
AFC South:
1. Houston Texans
Notes: It's a strong possibility that if last season Houston had a healthy Matt Schaub the Texans could have gotten past the Ravens into the AFC Championship game to face the Patriots, Schaub-Johnson is another lethal connection, don't forget this.
2. Tennessee Titans
Notes: Depending on the health of WR Kenny Britt, QB Hasselbeck could have one last run in him before Locker takes over.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
Notes: I am not sold on QB Blaine Gabbert, however perhaps the draft addition of top pick WR Justin Blackmon will help and with a not too shabby defense (allowing 20.6 ppg for 11th best in the NFL) the Jags will improve this year.
4. Indianapolis Colts
Notes: QB Andrew Luck could be really good some day but like the other rookie QBs (esp Peyton when he was a rookie) he is most likely to struggle, especially having to be able to fill Peyton Manning's shoes..those are very big shoes to fill.
AFC East:
1. New England Patriots
Notes: Surprise, surprise the Patriots finish back in 1st in the division and the move they made might be totally under the radar as they acquired WR Brandon Lloyd a deep threat for the offense that it might have lacked. Not to mention the Pats may have well improved their 15th best defense in the league (21.4 points allowed per game) by adding LB Donta Hightower out of Alabama.
2. New York Jets
Notes: With the Jets dominating headlines since the acquisition of QB Tim Tebow, the draft moves of DE Quinton Coples and WR Stephen Hill might go under the radar especially with Sanchez who threw a career best 26 TDs last season, even though him and the Jets have been missing a deep threat since Braylon Edwards last played there whom averaged 17.1 yards a catch.
3. Buffalo Bills
Notes: The Bills started off hot last season and then finished 6-10, one of these years they'll be more consistent perhaps it will be this year.
4. Miami Dolphins
Notes: It'll be interesting to see how the Fins look without Marshall and how long Moore will be QB till Tannehill takes over, especially since their only main acquisition might be Pats reject WR Chad Ocho Cinco (now again known as Chad Johnson).
AFC West:
1. Denver Broncos
Notes: The Broncos shall repeat as division winners with the acquisition for an even better QB in Peyton Manning, even though Tebow's wins were like magic, if the Broncos are given a healthy Peyton Manning for the season, more magic could possibly happen as Manning could have a couple more great years left in him.
2. San Diego Chargers
Notes: Rivers had a very disappointing season last year, perhaps this year he bounces back and the Chargers end up with a wild card spot.
3. Oakland Raiders
Notes: The Raiders after last season sure looked like they were on the rise despite only finishing 8-8, they are a talented squad, however the firing of 1st year head coach Hue Jackson could cost them, I thought he did a good job last year.
4. Kansas City Chiefs
Notes: With a healthy Cassel, Charles, Bowe and Baldwin the offense could flourish but the loss of CB Brandon Carr might hurt more than anything else, even though they still have CB Brandon Flowers. Between the Chargers, Raiders and Chiefs the 2nd spot for the division is up for grabs at least in my opinion.
National Football Conference (NFC)
NFC North:
1. Green Bay Packers
Notes: One reason the Packers weren't able to repeat as Super Bowl champions was the same reason they weren't able to beat the now defending Super Bowl champion Giants, their pass rush especially on their line but they might have now addressed them with the additions of their draft picks LB/DE Nick Perry and DT Jerel Worthy.
2. Chicago Bears
Notes: For all the talk about Jay Cutler not having any targets, that changed this season with the additions of newly reunited teammate Brandon Marshall and even draft pick Alshon Jeffery might make an impact away.
3. Detroit Lions
Notes: I can see them winning as many games as they did last season however it's a tough division, of course if they have a healthy Stafford and Johnson that would be enough to win some games right there, especially since I see a breakout season from Suh. If it was up to me the Lions would be division champs but the truth is the Packers are really good right now and I think the Bears will be now that Cutler has some weapons, it's a tough division, then again maybe anything can happen.
4. Minnesota Vikings
Notes: A healthy Adrian Peterson is one reason to not take the Vikings for granted and their defense isn't that bad either, the question here will be how much improvement they see from 2nd year QB Christian Ponder.
NFC South:
1. New Orleans Saints
Notes: Despite Bountygate, and unless players get suspended for a year for this they are still a dangerous football team especially as long as Brees remains QB.
2. Carolina Panthers
Notes: Yes you read this right I have the Panthers finishing in 2nd in this division, I just get the feeling Cam Newton is going to get better and better and with Steve Smith as his right hand man and the addition of LB Luke Kuechly in the draft, he gets more help to start making the Panthers a better football team.
3. Atlanta Falcons
Notes: Despite the explosive duo of WRs Roddy White and Julio Jones, the concern of Matt Ryan still not being able to win a playoff game (the next Romo?) is major especially with it's very poor showing vs the Giants in the Wild Card round. I see them taking a step back despite the addition of CB Asante Samuel from Philadelphia.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Notes: Everything fell apart for them last season (especially with Coach Raheem Morris getting the boot) and truth is it might not get any better for Josh Freeman and company in as tough as a division as this is now.
NFC East:
1. New York Giants
Notes: Despite the losses of key players in WR Mario Manningham (spectacular grab in the Super Bowl) and RB Brandon Jacobs, you still have to respect the Giants for not only being defending NFC East champions but defending Super Bowl champions as well, you can no longer take Eli for granted, I certainly won't, they are the champs till defeated.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Notes: I think they bounce back this season especially on the defensive end with the addition of DeMeco Ryans, perhaps Vick putting up a career best in passing numbers this year as well.
3. Dallas Cowboys
Notes: Tony Romo is a good QB not a great QB though and he fails to perform in the big moments so despite the addition of CB Brandon Carr in FA and CB Morris Claiborne through the draft to help their defense, until he is (if he is) they won't be able to go far.
4. Washington Redskins
Notes: Believe it or not RG3 has less pressure on him this season than Andrew Luck since Washington hasn't had a good QB since maybe Doug Williams while Luck has to try to fill Manning's shoes. It'll be interesting to see if RG3 can make an impact right away this season the way Cam did last season.
NFC West:
1. San Francisco 49ers
Notes: Many key additions this season in WRs Randy Moss (brought him out of retirement and Mario Manningham (might be an underrated move compared to Moss) and RB Brandon Jacobs and WR AJ Jenkins and RB LaMichael James in the draft. It'll be interesting to see what Moss looks like on the field especially if Smith can utilize him well, I think he can since I believe he had his breakout game vs the Saints in the NFC Divisional Playoff game with the GW TD to Davis.
2. Seattle Seahawks
Notes: With the additions of WR Antonio Bryant and former Browns in Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow being reunited. The question here is, could Matt Flynn be their guys? Or did my Lions make him look better than he actually was with their poor secondary? If he is their guy and deep threat WRs like Sidney Rice and Braylon Edwards can stay healthy (Edwards wasn't able to last season with the Niners) along with Winslow watch out for the Seahawks.
3. St. Louis Rams
Notes: Is this the year Sam Bradford finally breaks out? Or do we find out this year he's not as good as we thought he would be? The Rams could have an impact on their defense with CBs Cortland Finnegan and even risky draft pick CB Janoris Jenkins to at least be better than what they were last season.
4. Arizona Cardinals
Notes: CB Patrick Peterson could make an impact in his 2nd season not just as a punt/kick returner but as a CB this year, draft pick WR Michael Floyd could flourish next to one of the best WRs in the NFL in Larry Fitzgerald. However my question is who is going to throw to them? I'm still not sold on Kolb (wasted trade) or Skelton, 6th round draft pick Lindley? Unless he's the 2nd coming of Tom Brady no, I think they'll need to draft one next season in the 1st round, perhaps they'll land Barkley.
Playoff Predictions:
American Football Conference (AFC)
1. New England Patriots
2. Houston Texans
3. Denver Broncos
4. Baltimore Ravens
WC. Cincinatti Bengals
WC. San Diego Chargers
Wild Card game: Bengals vs Ravens. Winner: Bengals
Wild Card game: Chargers vs Broncos. Winner: Broncos
AFC Divisional game: Bengals vs Texans. Winner: Texans
AFC Divisional game: Broncos vs Patriots. Winner: Patriots
AFC Championship Game: Texans vs Patriots. Winner: Patriots
National Football Conference (NFC)
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. New York Giants
4. New Orleans Saints
WC Chicago Bears
WC Philadelphia Eagles
Wild Card game: Bears vs Saints. Winner: Saints
Wild Card game: Eagles vs Giants. Winner: Giants
NFC Divisional game: Saints vs Packers. Winner: Packers
NFC Divisional game: Giants vs 49ers. Winner: 49ers
NFC Championship game: 49ers vs Packers. Winner: Packers
Super Bowl XLVII
Patriots vs Packers
Winner: Patriots
Last season I predicted the Patriots to win the Super Bowl and was just one Tom Brady missed pass from getting it right, lets hope the 2nd time is the charm and Brady gets his 4th so he and the Pats can be a Super Bowl before their window totally closes.
American Football Conference (AFC)
AFC North:
1. Baltimore Ravens
Notes: Just like last season the Ravens finish in first place, might be for the last time though with Reed, Lewis getting towards their end and the Cincinatti Bengals are clearly on the rise.
2. Cincinatti Bengals
Notes: Despite losing first round draft pick CB Dre Kirkpatrick, they added insurance with CB Terrence Newman, with 2nd year QB Dalton and 2nd year WR Green as one of the best young QB-WR tandems (besides Stafford-Johnson) the Bengals may be ready to fly.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
Notes: The Steelers really have not made any moves besides improving their offensive line with first round pick G David DeCastro and are threatened by the holdout of their star WR Mike Wallace.
4. Cleveland Browns
Notes: Cleveland improved by drafting top draft pick RB Trent Richardson who could right away be a star, at 28 years old QB Brandon Weeden might have to start right away meaning Colt McCoy's days are numbered the only thing missing in Cleveland now is a primetime WR. If they do that they will be ready to take off and fly high especially with establishing already one of the best young defenses in the league (allowed 19.2 points a game, tied for 5th in the NFL).
AFC South:
1. Houston Texans
Notes: It's a strong possibility that if last season Houston had a healthy Matt Schaub the Texans could have gotten past the Ravens into the AFC Championship game to face the Patriots, Schaub-Johnson is another lethal connection, don't forget this.
2. Tennessee Titans
Notes: Depending on the health of WR Kenny Britt, QB Hasselbeck could have one last run in him before Locker takes over.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
Notes: I am not sold on QB Blaine Gabbert, however perhaps the draft addition of top pick WR Justin Blackmon will help and with a not too shabby defense (allowing 20.6 ppg for 11th best in the NFL) the Jags will improve this year.
4. Indianapolis Colts
Notes: QB Andrew Luck could be really good some day but like the other rookie QBs (esp Peyton when he was a rookie) he is most likely to struggle, especially having to be able to fill Peyton Manning's shoes..those are very big shoes to fill.
AFC East:
1. New England Patriots
Notes: Surprise, surprise the Patriots finish back in 1st in the division and the move they made might be totally under the radar as they acquired WR Brandon Lloyd a deep threat for the offense that it might have lacked. Not to mention the Pats may have well improved their 15th best defense in the league (21.4 points allowed per game) by adding LB Donta Hightower out of Alabama.
2. New York Jets
Notes: With the Jets dominating headlines since the acquisition of QB Tim Tebow, the draft moves of DE Quinton Coples and WR Stephen Hill might go under the radar especially with Sanchez who threw a career best 26 TDs last season, even though him and the Jets have been missing a deep threat since Braylon Edwards last played there whom averaged 17.1 yards a catch.
3. Buffalo Bills
Notes: The Bills started off hot last season and then finished 6-10, one of these years they'll be more consistent perhaps it will be this year.
4. Miami Dolphins
Notes: It'll be interesting to see how the Fins look without Marshall and how long Moore will be QB till Tannehill takes over, especially since their only main acquisition might be Pats reject WR Chad Ocho Cinco (now again known as Chad Johnson).
AFC West:
1. Denver Broncos
Notes: The Broncos shall repeat as division winners with the acquisition for an even better QB in Peyton Manning, even though Tebow's wins were like magic, if the Broncos are given a healthy Peyton Manning for the season, more magic could possibly happen as Manning could have a couple more great years left in him.
2. San Diego Chargers
Notes: Rivers had a very disappointing season last year, perhaps this year he bounces back and the Chargers end up with a wild card spot.
3. Oakland Raiders
Notes: The Raiders after last season sure looked like they were on the rise despite only finishing 8-8, they are a talented squad, however the firing of 1st year head coach Hue Jackson could cost them, I thought he did a good job last year.
4. Kansas City Chiefs
Notes: With a healthy Cassel, Charles, Bowe and Baldwin the offense could flourish but the loss of CB Brandon Carr might hurt more than anything else, even though they still have CB Brandon Flowers. Between the Chargers, Raiders and Chiefs the 2nd spot for the division is up for grabs at least in my opinion.
National Football Conference (NFC)
NFC North:
1. Green Bay Packers
Notes: One reason the Packers weren't able to repeat as Super Bowl champions was the same reason they weren't able to beat the now defending Super Bowl champion Giants, their pass rush especially on their line but they might have now addressed them with the additions of their draft picks LB/DE Nick Perry and DT Jerel Worthy.
2. Chicago Bears
Notes: For all the talk about Jay Cutler not having any targets, that changed this season with the additions of newly reunited teammate Brandon Marshall and even draft pick Alshon Jeffery might make an impact away.
3. Detroit Lions
Notes: I can see them winning as many games as they did last season however it's a tough division, of course if they have a healthy Stafford and Johnson that would be enough to win some games right there, especially since I see a breakout season from Suh. If it was up to me the Lions would be division champs but the truth is the Packers are really good right now and I think the Bears will be now that Cutler has some weapons, it's a tough division, then again maybe anything can happen.
4. Minnesota Vikings
Notes: A healthy Adrian Peterson is one reason to not take the Vikings for granted and their defense isn't that bad either, the question here will be how much improvement they see from 2nd year QB Christian Ponder.
NFC South:
1. New Orleans Saints
Notes: Despite Bountygate, and unless players get suspended for a year for this they are still a dangerous football team especially as long as Brees remains QB.
2. Carolina Panthers
Notes: Yes you read this right I have the Panthers finishing in 2nd in this division, I just get the feeling Cam Newton is going to get better and better and with Steve Smith as his right hand man and the addition of LB Luke Kuechly in the draft, he gets more help to start making the Panthers a better football team.
3. Atlanta Falcons
Notes: Despite the explosive duo of WRs Roddy White and Julio Jones, the concern of Matt Ryan still not being able to win a playoff game (the next Romo?) is major especially with it's very poor showing vs the Giants in the Wild Card round. I see them taking a step back despite the addition of CB Asante Samuel from Philadelphia.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Notes: Everything fell apart for them last season (especially with Coach Raheem Morris getting the boot) and truth is it might not get any better for Josh Freeman and company in as tough as a division as this is now.
NFC East:
1. New York Giants
Notes: Despite the losses of key players in WR Mario Manningham (spectacular grab in the Super Bowl) and RB Brandon Jacobs, you still have to respect the Giants for not only being defending NFC East champions but defending Super Bowl champions as well, you can no longer take Eli for granted, I certainly won't, they are the champs till defeated.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Notes: I think they bounce back this season especially on the defensive end with the addition of DeMeco Ryans, perhaps Vick putting up a career best in passing numbers this year as well.
3. Dallas Cowboys
Notes: Tony Romo is a good QB not a great QB though and he fails to perform in the big moments so despite the addition of CB Brandon Carr in FA and CB Morris Claiborne through the draft to help their defense, until he is (if he is) they won't be able to go far.
4. Washington Redskins
Notes: Believe it or not RG3 has less pressure on him this season than Andrew Luck since Washington hasn't had a good QB since maybe Doug Williams while Luck has to try to fill Manning's shoes. It'll be interesting to see if RG3 can make an impact right away this season the way Cam did last season.
NFC West:
1. San Francisco 49ers
Notes: Many key additions this season in WRs Randy Moss (brought him out of retirement and Mario Manningham (might be an underrated move compared to Moss) and RB Brandon Jacobs and WR AJ Jenkins and RB LaMichael James in the draft. It'll be interesting to see what Moss looks like on the field especially if Smith can utilize him well, I think he can since I believe he had his breakout game vs the Saints in the NFC Divisional Playoff game with the GW TD to Davis.
2. Seattle Seahawks
Notes: With the additions of WR Antonio Bryant and former Browns in Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow being reunited. The question here is, could Matt Flynn be their guys? Or did my Lions make him look better than he actually was with their poor secondary? If he is their guy and deep threat WRs like Sidney Rice and Braylon Edwards can stay healthy (Edwards wasn't able to last season with the Niners) along with Winslow watch out for the Seahawks.
3. St. Louis Rams
Notes: Is this the year Sam Bradford finally breaks out? Or do we find out this year he's not as good as we thought he would be? The Rams could have an impact on their defense with CBs Cortland Finnegan and even risky draft pick CB Janoris Jenkins to at least be better than what they were last season.
4. Arizona Cardinals
Notes: CB Patrick Peterson could make an impact in his 2nd season not just as a punt/kick returner but as a CB this year, draft pick WR Michael Floyd could flourish next to one of the best WRs in the NFL in Larry Fitzgerald. However my question is who is going to throw to them? I'm still not sold on Kolb (wasted trade) or Skelton, 6th round draft pick Lindley? Unless he's the 2nd coming of Tom Brady no, I think they'll need to draft one next season in the 1st round, perhaps they'll land Barkley.
Playoff Predictions:
American Football Conference (AFC)
1. New England Patriots
2. Houston Texans
3. Denver Broncos
4. Baltimore Ravens
WC. Cincinatti Bengals
WC. San Diego Chargers
Wild Card game: Bengals vs Ravens. Winner: Bengals
Wild Card game: Chargers vs Broncos. Winner: Broncos
AFC Divisional game: Bengals vs Texans. Winner: Texans
AFC Divisional game: Broncos vs Patriots. Winner: Patriots
AFC Championship Game: Texans vs Patriots. Winner: Patriots
National Football Conference (NFC)
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. New York Giants
4. New Orleans Saints
WC Chicago Bears
WC Philadelphia Eagles
Wild Card game: Bears vs Saints. Winner: Saints
Wild Card game: Eagles vs Giants. Winner: Giants
NFC Divisional game: Saints vs Packers. Winner: Packers
NFC Divisional game: Giants vs 49ers. Winner: 49ers
NFC Championship game: 49ers vs Packers. Winner: Packers
Super Bowl XLVII
Patriots vs Packers
Winner: Patriots
Last season I predicted the Patriots to win the Super Bowl and was just one Tom Brady missed pass from getting it right, lets hope the 2nd time is the charm and Brady gets his 4th so he and the Pats can be a Super Bowl before their window totally closes.
Monday, June 25, 2012
2012 NBA Final Mock Draft: Round 1
Intro: There are a few things that could happen on draft day or before, could be a big trade goes down, Dwight Howard on the move perhaps? A championship contender moving up in the draft order? One thing is for sure though.... Basketball never ends.
Round 1:
1. New Orleans Hornets - Anthony Davis, PF, Kentucky
Notes: Clear cut #1 pick has potential to be a great big man in the league.
2. Charlotte Bobcats - Bradley Beal, SG, Florida
Notes: The pick they should take here is Thomas Robinson, however the consensus is it will be sharpshooter Bradley Beal.
3. Washington Wizards - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF, Kentucky
Notes: In my opinion the 2nd best player in the draft, he has potential to be one of the best small forwards in the league, perhaps a poor mans Kevin Durant.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers - Harrison Barnes, SF, UNC
Notes: I would say Thomas Robinson here but the Cavs already drafted Tristian Thompson last year so they already have a 4, Barnes has bust potential, has no killer instinct but perhaps a good coach in Byron Scott could make it work there in Cleveland with Irving and Thompson.
5. Sacramento Kings - Thomas Robinson, PF, Kansas
Notes: Sacramento improves it's frontline by adding Robinson to the 4 with Cousins at the 5; Evans, Robinson and Cousins as the building blocks for the future.
6. Portland Trailblazers - Andre Drummond, PF/C, UConn
Notes: With Oden most likely done, Portland drafts it's replacement to go along with supreme PF Aldridge on the frontline.
7. Golden State Warriors - Damian Lilliard, PG, Weber State
Notes: After dealing Ellis to the Bucks last season, Golden State finds it's replacement in Lilliard so Stephen Curry can go back to his natural position, the 2.
8. Toronto Raptors - Austin Rivers, SG/PG, Duke
Notes: Rivers has risen up on the boards, Toronto might be looking for a guard and might be buying into the Rivers hype.
9. Detroit Pistons - John Henson, PF, UNC
Notes: The Detroit Pistons have C Greg Monroe and PG Brandon Knight as their building blocks, they add more size inside with PF Henson who has the potential to be a pretty good shotblocker in the NBA. Only concern I have is that he's very skinny; needs to bulk up, he was the standout in the Pistons workouts according to reports.
10. New Orleans Hornets - Jeremy Lamb, SG, UConn
Notes: With Lamb and Davis on the Hornets, New Orleans may finally have 2 pieces for the future to make it look bright since CP3 and David West.
11. Portland Trailblazers - Terrence Ross, SG/SF, Washington
Notes: After adding size inside with Drummond, Portland betters themselves on the wing with SG/SF Terrence Ross, who has the potential to be a steal in the draft.
12. Houston Rockets - Marquis Teague, PG, Kentucky
Notes: Houston might lose their PG this offseason in Kyle Lowry, Kentucky PG Marquis Teague might be a potential replacement.
13. Phoenix Suns - Meyers Leonard, C, Illinois
Notes: This pick could depend on whether or not Phoenix can resign Nash, if they do they will for sure be adding some size inside, 7'1 Leonard will be hard to pass up here.
14. Milwaukee Bucks - Tyler Zeller, PF/C, UNC
Notes: Trading Bogut last season should be enough reason to draft a potential replacement at the 5 with Tyler Zeller, regardless you can never have too much size inside.
15. Philadelphis Sixers - Dion Waiters, SG, Syracuse
Notes: Very good shooting guard that could possibly start at the 2 spot for the Sixers if not give more power off the bench along with Lou Will.
16. Houston Rockets - Arnett Moultrie, PF, Mississippi State
Notes: At this point Moultrie is the best player available and again you can never have too much size inside, Moultrie in the frontcourt to compliment Luis Scola.
17. Dallas Mavericks - Kendall Marshall, PG, North Carolina
Notes: With the Mavs likely due to lose Kidd in free agency and unless they get Deron Williams from the Nets, the Mavs will likely be looking for a successor here that very well might be Marshall who has the makings to be a pure point guard.
18. Houston Rockets - Moe Harkless, SF, St. Johns
Notes: Houston adds on to their frontline with Harkless who may be a cinderella pick in this draft.
19. Orlando Magic - Terrence Jones, SF/PF, Kentucky
Notes: With Dwight possibly on the move this summer, Orlando might be looking for another big man to give them help inside Terrence Jones may be the answer.
20. Denver Nuggets - Perry Jones, SF/PF, Baylor
Notes: Denver already has size inside in Kenneth Faried, Javale McGee, they very well might add more with Jones here.
21. Boston Celtics - Fab Melo, C, Syracuse
Notes: One of the Celtics weakness is lacking size inside and they also may very well lose KG to free agency, 7 foot Melo is the best player available for them at this point.
22. Boston Celtics - Jared Cunningham, SG, Oregon State
Notes: The Celtics might lose Ray Allen this offseason, this may be his replacement.
23. Atlanta Hawks - Andrew Nicholson, PF, St. Bonaventure
Notes: Atlanta needs more size inside especially since they may lose PF Josh Smith this offseason.
24. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio State
Notes: Sullinger considered a red flag to some teams in the draft but at this point I can see the Cavs taking a chance here on the hometown kid.
25. Memphis Grizzlies - Khris Middleton, SG/SF, Texas A&M
Notes: The Griz may lose OJ Mayo this offseason, might look at Middleton as a replacement.
26. Indiana Pacers - Quincy Miller, SF, Baylor
Notes: Miller is the best player available at this point, may make an impact off the bench.
27. Miami Heat - Draymond Green, SF/PF, Michigan State
Notes: Green can play either the 3 or 4, could be a nice addition off the bench for Miami.
28. Oklahoma City Thunder - Evan Fournier, SG, France
Notes: Thunder might lose SG Harden this offseason, might look at Fournier as a replacement.
29. Chicago Bulls - Royce White, SF, Iowa State
Notes: Chicago might make a trade for a top draft pick in this draft involving Deng if so this could be the pick that is his replacement.
30. Golden State Warriors - Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbilt
Notes: Golden State adds more size inside with 6'11 C Ezeli to compliment PF David Lee.
Round 1:
1. New Orleans Hornets - Anthony Davis, PF, Kentucky
Notes: Clear cut #1 pick has potential to be a great big man in the league.
2. Charlotte Bobcats - Bradley Beal, SG, Florida
Notes: The pick they should take here is Thomas Robinson, however the consensus is it will be sharpshooter Bradley Beal.
3. Washington Wizards - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF, Kentucky
Notes: In my opinion the 2nd best player in the draft, he has potential to be one of the best small forwards in the league, perhaps a poor mans Kevin Durant.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers - Harrison Barnes, SF, UNC
Notes: I would say Thomas Robinson here but the Cavs already drafted Tristian Thompson last year so they already have a 4, Barnes has bust potential, has no killer instinct but perhaps a good coach in Byron Scott could make it work there in Cleveland with Irving and Thompson.
5. Sacramento Kings - Thomas Robinson, PF, Kansas
Notes: Sacramento improves it's frontline by adding Robinson to the 4 with Cousins at the 5; Evans, Robinson and Cousins as the building blocks for the future.
6. Portland Trailblazers - Andre Drummond, PF/C, UConn
Notes: With Oden most likely done, Portland drafts it's replacement to go along with supreme PF Aldridge on the frontline.
7. Golden State Warriors - Damian Lilliard, PG, Weber State
Notes: After dealing Ellis to the Bucks last season, Golden State finds it's replacement in Lilliard so Stephen Curry can go back to his natural position, the 2.
8. Toronto Raptors - Austin Rivers, SG/PG, Duke
Notes: Rivers has risen up on the boards, Toronto might be looking for a guard and might be buying into the Rivers hype.
9. Detroit Pistons - John Henson, PF, UNC
Notes: The Detroit Pistons have C Greg Monroe and PG Brandon Knight as their building blocks, they add more size inside with PF Henson who has the potential to be a pretty good shotblocker in the NBA. Only concern I have is that he's very skinny; needs to bulk up, he was the standout in the Pistons workouts according to reports.
10. New Orleans Hornets - Jeremy Lamb, SG, UConn
Notes: With Lamb and Davis on the Hornets, New Orleans may finally have 2 pieces for the future to make it look bright since CP3 and David West.
11. Portland Trailblazers - Terrence Ross, SG/SF, Washington
Notes: After adding size inside with Drummond, Portland betters themselves on the wing with SG/SF Terrence Ross, who has the potential to be a steal in the draft.
12. Houston Rockets - Marquis Teague, PG, Kentucky
Notes: Houston might lose their PG this offseason in Kyle Lowry, Kentucky PG Marquis Teague might be a potential replacement.
13. Phoenix Suns - Meyers Leonard, C, Illinois
Notes: This pick could depend on whether or not Phoenix can resign Nash, if they do they will for sure be adding some size inside, 7'1 Leonard will be hard to pass up here.
14. Milwaukee Bucks - Tyler Zeller, PF/C, UNC
Notes: Trading Bogut last season should be enough reason to draft a potential replacement at the 5 with Tyler Zeller, regardless you can never have too much size inside.
15. Philadelphis Sixers - Dion Waiters, SG, Syracuse
Notes: Very good shooting guard that could possibly start at the 2 spot for the Sixers if not give more power off the bench along with Lou Will.
16. Houston Rockets - Arnett Moultrie, PF, Mississippi State
Notes: At this point Moultrie is the best player available and again you can never have too much size inside, Moultrie in the frontcourt to compliment Luis Scola.
17. Dallas Mavericks - Kendall Marshall, PG, North Carolina
Notes: With the Mavs likely due to lose Kidd in free agency and unless they get Deron Williams from the Nets, the Mavs will likely be looking for a successor here that very well might be Marshall who has the makings to be a pure point guard.
18. Houston Rockets - Moe Harkless, SF, St. Johns
Notes: Houston adds on to their frontline with Harkless who may be a cinderella pick in this draft.
19. Orlando Magic - Terrence Jones, SF/PF, Kentucky
Notes: With Dwight possibly on the move this summer, Orlando might be looking for another big man to give them help inside Terrence Jones may be the answer.
20. Denver Nuggets - Perry Jones, SF/PF, Baylor
Notes: Denver already has size inside in Kenneth Faried, Javale McGee, they very well might add more with Jones here.
21. Boston Celtics - Fab Melo, C, Syracuse
Notes: One of the Celtics weakness is lacking size inside and they also may very well lose KG to free agency, 7 foot Melo is the best player available for them at this point.
22. Boston Celtics - Jared Cunningham, SG, Oregon State
Notes: The Celtics might lose Ray Allen this offseason, this may be his replacement.
23. Atlanta Hawks - Andrew Nicholson, PF, St. Bonaventure
Notes: Atlanta needs more size inside especially since they may lose PF Josh Smith this offseason.
24. Cleveland Cavaliers - Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio State
Notes: Sullinger considered a red flag to some teams in the draft but at this point I can see the Cavs taking a chance here on the hometown kid.
25. Memphis Grizzlies - Khris Middleton, SG/SF, Texas A&M
Notes: The Griz may lose OJ Mayo this offseason, might look at Middleton as a replacement.
26. Indiana Pacers - Quincy Miller, SF, Baylor
Notes: Miller is the best player available at this point, may make an impact off the bench.
27. Miami Heat - Draymond Green, SF/PF, Michigan State
Notes: Green can play either the 3 or 4, could be a nice addition off the bench for Miami.
28. Oklahoma City Thunder - Evan Fournier, SG, France
Notes: Thunder might lose SG Harden this offseason, might look at Fournier as a replacement.
29. Chicago Bulls - Royce White, SF, Iowa State
Notes: Chicago might make a trade for a top draft pick in this draft involving Deng if so this could be the pick that is his replacement.
30. Golden State Warriors - Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbilt
Notes: Golden State adds more size inside with 6'11 C Ezeli to compliment PF David Lee.
Friday, April 27, 2012
NBA Finals Prediction: Updated
First Round:
Eastern Conference
1 Chicago Bulls vs 8 Philadelphia 76ers
Result: Chicago in 4
4 Boston Celtics vs 5 Atlanta Hawks:
Result: Boston in 6
2 Miami Heat vs 7 New Your Knicks
Result: Miami in 4
3 Indiana Pacers vs 6 Orlando Magic
Result: Indiana in 4
Western Conference:
1 San Antonio Spurs vs 8 Utah Jazz
Result: San Antonio in 5
4 Memphis Grizzlies vs 5 Los Angeles Clippers
Result: Memphis in 6
2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs 7 Dallas Mavericks
Result: Oklahoma City in 6
3 Los Angeles Lakers vs 6 Denver Nuggets
Result: Lakers in 6
Second Round:
Eastern Conference:
1 Chicago Bulls vs 4 Boston Celtics
Result: Chicago in 6
2 Miami Heat vs 3 Indiana Pacers
Result: Miami in 7
1 San Antonio Spurs vs 4 Memphis Grizzlies
Result: San Antonio in 6
2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Result: Lakers in 6
Conference Finals:
Eastern Conference:
1 Chicago Bulls vs 2 Miami Heat
Result: Miami in 6
1 San Antonio Spurs vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Result: Lakers in 6
NBA Finals:
2 Miami Heat vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Result: Let this be the series that finally settles the Kobe vs. LeBron debate. Lakers in 6, not to mention Kobe's 6th ring.
Eastern Conference
1 Chicago Bulls vs 8 Philadelphia 76ers
Result: Chicago in 4
4 Boston Celtics vs 5 Atlanta Hawks:
Result: Boston in 6
2 Miami Heat vs 7 New Your Knicks
Result: Miami in 4
3 Indiana Pacers vs 6 Orlando Magic
Result: Indiana in 4
Western Conference:
1 San Antonio Spurs vs 8 Utah Jazz
Result: San Antonio in 5
4 Memphis Grizzlies vs 5 Los Angeles Clippers
Result: Memphis in 6
2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs 7 Dallas Mavericks
Result: Oklahoma City in 6
3 Los Angeles Lakers vs 6 Denver Nuggets
Result: Lakers in 6
Second Round:
Eastern Conference:
1 Chicago Bulls vs 4 Boston Celtics
Result: Chicago in 6
2 Miami Heat vs 3 Indiana Pacers
Result: Miami in 7
1 San Antonio Spurs vs 4 Memphis Grizzlies
Result: San Antonio in 6
2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Result: Lakers in 6
Conference Finals:
Eastern Conference:
1 Chicago Bulls vs 2 Miami Heat
Result: Miami in 6
1 San Antonio Spurs vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Result: Lakers in 6
NBA Finals:
2 Miami Heat vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Result: Let this be the series that finally settles the Kobe vs. LeBron debate. Lakers in 6, not to mention Kobe's 6th ring.
NBA Playoffs: Nuggets vs Lakers
Western Conference Matchups:
6 Denver Nuggets vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
PG Ty Lawson vs PG Ramon Sessions
Advantage: Tie, both are young slashers.
SG Aaron Affalo vs SG Kobe Bryant
Advantage: Kobe
SF Danilo Galinari vs SF Matt Barnes
Advantage: Danilo
PF Kenneth Faried vs PF Pau Gasol
Advantage: Pau
C Kosta Koufos vs C Andrew Bynum
Advantage: Bynum
Bench:
Advantage: Nuggets
Coaching:
Advantage: Nuggets
Intangibles:
Advantage: Lakers
Prediction: Lakers in 6
6 Denver Nuggets vs 3 Los Angeles Lakers
PG Ty Lawson vs PG Ramon Sessions
Advantage: Tie, both are young slashers.
SG Aaron Affalo vs SG Kobe Bryant
Advantage: Kobe
SF Danilo Galinari vs SF Matt Barnes
Advantage: Danilo
PF Kenneth Faried vs PF Pau Gasol
Advantage: Pau
C Kosta Koufos vs C Andrew Bynum
Advantage: Bynum
Bench:
Advantage: Nuggets
Coaching:
Advantage: Nuggets
Intangibles:
Advantage: Lakers
Prediction: Lakers in 6
NBA Playoffs: Mavericks vs Thunder
Western Conference matchups:
7 Dallas Mavericks vs 2 Oklahoma City Thunder
PG Jason Kidd vs PG Russell Westbrook
Advantage: Westbrook
SG Delonte West vs SG Thabo Sefolosha
Advantage: Thabo
SF Shawn Marion vs SF Kevin Durant
Advantage: Durant
PF Dirk Nowitzki vs PF Serge Ibaka
Advantage: Nowitzki
C Brendan Haywood vs C Kendrick Perkins
Advantage: Tie
Bench:
Advantage: Mavericks
Coaching:
Advantage: Tie
Intangibles:
Advantage: Mavs, defending NBA champions
Prediction: Thunder in 6
7 Dallas Mavericks vs 2 Oklahoma City Thunder
PG Jason Kidd vs PG Russell Westbrook
Advantage: Westbrook
SG Delonte West vs SG Thabo Sefolosha
Advantage: Thabo
SF Shawn Marion vs SF Kevin Durant
Advantage: Durant
PF Dirk Nowitzki vs PF Serge Ibaka
Advantage: Nowitzki
C Brendan Haywood vs C Kendrick Perkins
Advantage: Tie
Bench:
Advantage: Mavericks
Coaching:
Advantage: Tie
Intangibles:
Advantage: Mavs, defending NBA champions
Prediction: Thunder in 6
NBA Playoffs: Clippers vs Grizzlies
Western Conference Matchups:
5 Los Angeles Clippers vs 4 Memphis Grizzlies
Positional matchups:
PG Chris Paul vs PG Mike Conley
Advantage: Paul
SG Randy Foye vs SG Tony Allen
Advantage: Mayo
SF Caron Butler vs SF Rudy Gay
Advantage: Gay
PF Blake Griffin vs PF Maurice Speights
Advantage: Griffin
C DeAndre Jordan vs C Marc Gasol
Advantage: Tie
Bench:
Advantage: Grizzlies
Coaching:
Advantage: Grizzlies
Intangibles:
Advantage: Grizzlies
Prediction: Grizzlies in 6
5 Los Angeles Clippers vs 4 Memphis Grizzlies
Positional matchups:
PG Chris Paul vs PG Mike Conley
Advantage: Paul
SG Randy Foye vs SG Tony Allen
Advantage: Mayo
SF Caron Butler vs SF Rudy Gay
Advantage: Gay
PF Blake Griffin vs PF Maurice Speights
Advantage: Griffin
C DeAndre Jordan vs C Marc Gasol
Advantage: Tie
Bench:
Advantage: Grizzlies
Coaching:
Advantage: Grizzlies
Intangibles:
Advantage: Grizzlies
Prediction: Grizzlies in 6
NBA Playoffs: Jazz vs Spurs
Western Conference matchups:
8 Utah Jazz vs 1 San Antonio Spurs
Positional matchups:
PG Devin Harris vs PG Tony Parker
Advantage: Spurs
SG Gordon Hayward vs SG Danny Green
Advantage: Spurs
SF DeMarre Carroll vs SF Kawhi Leonard
Advantage: Spurs
PF Paul Milsap vs PF Tim Duncan
Advantage: Spurs
C Al Jefferson vs C DeJuan Blair
Advantage: Jazz
Bench:
Advantage: Spurs
Coaching:
Advantage: Spurs
Intangibles:
Advantage: Spurs
Prediction: Spurs in 5.
8 Utah Jazz vs 1 San Antonio Spurs
Positional matchups:
PG Devin Harris vs PG Tony Parker
Advantage: Spurs
SG Gordon Hayward vs SG Danny Green
Advantage: Spurs
SF DeMarre Carroll vs SF Kawhi Leonard
Advantage: Spurs
PF Paul Milsap vs PF Tim Duncan
Advantage: Spurs
C Al Jefferson vs C DeJuan Blair
Advantage: Jazz
Bench:
Advantage: Spurs
Coaching:
Advantage: Spurs
Intangibles:
Advantage: Spurs
Prediction: Spurs in 5.
NBA Playoffs: Magic vs Pacers
Eastern Conference matchups:
6 Orlando Magic vs 3 Indiana Pacers
PG Jameer Nelson vs PG Darren Collison
Advantage: Nelson only by the numbers as he averaged 11.9 points per game this season along with 5.7 assists to Collison's 10.3 points per game and 4.8 assists per game.
SG J.J. Redick vs SG Paul George
Advantage: George, based solely on the numbers with George averaging 12.1 points per game to 11.6, not to mention Paul has the size advantage on Jason, 6'8 to 6'6.
SF Jason Richardson vs SF Danny Granger
Advantage: Granger, clearly with the high scoring he puts up each night as he averaged 18.7 points per game this year.
PF Ryan Anderson vs PF David West
Advantage: West
C Glen Davis vs C Roy Hibbert
Advantage: Hibbert
Bench:
Advantage: Pacers
Coaching:
Advantage: Pacers
Intangibles:
Advantage: Pacers
Prediction: Pacers in 4. Dwight Howards gets traded, Stan Van Gundy gets fired.
6 Orlando Magic vs 3 Indiana Pacers
PG Jameer Nelson vs PG Darren Collison
Advantage: Nelson only by the numbers as he averaged 11.9 points per game this season along with 5.7 assists to Collison's 10.3 points per game and 4.8 assists per game.
SG J.J. Redick vs SG Paul George
Advantage: George, based solely on the numbers with George averaging 12.1 points per game to 11.6, not to mention Paul has the size advantage on Jason, 6'8 to 6'6.
SF Jason Richardson vs SF Danny Granger
Advantage: Granger, clearly with the high scoring he puts up each night as he averaged 18.7 points per game this year.
PF Ryan Anderson vs PF David West
Advantage: West
C Glen Davis vs C Roy Hibbert
Advantage: Hibbert
Bench:
Advantage: Pacers
Coaching:
Advantage: Pacers
Intangibles:
Advantage: Pacers
Prediction: Pacers in 4. Dwight Howards gets traded, Stan Van Gundy gets fired.
NBA Playoffs: Knicks vs Heat
Eastern Conference Matchups:
7 New York Knicks vs 2 Miami Heat
Positional matchups:
PG Baron Davis vs PG Mario Chalmers
Advantage: Chalmers, now if Lin was playing I'd probably take Lin since he was playing pretty well while healthy, but with Davis playing and the unnecessary passes and shot taking he does sometimes not to mention Chalmers intensity on the defensive end I have to give the slight edge to Chalmers.
SG Iman Shumpert vs SG Dwyane Wade
Advantage: Wade, even though Shumpert has proven to be a pretty darn good perimeter defender, not bad for a rookie.
SF Carmelo Anthony vs SF LeBron James
Advantage: Tie, despite LeBron averaging more points per game than Melo with 27.1 to 22.6 this season, Melo in April averaged 30 points per game, LeBron is a great defender though so the slight edge might go to LeBron on this one. Regardless this could be a real fun matchup to watch.
PF Amare Stoudemire vs PF Chris Bosh
Advantage: Amare, despite his injuries and Bosh this past month has disappeared in big games down the stretch especially against Boston, not to mention Amare and this year's probable defensive player of the year Chandler might both switch on him making it tough for him to score in this series. Critcal matchup. Not to mention despite STAT's slow start he has averaged 17.5 points per game this season along with 7.9 rebounds. Bosh had around the same type of numbers with 18 points per game and the same amount of rebounds but his play in big games lately has been a concern.
C Tyson Chandler vs C Joel Anthony
Advantage: Chandler, again he might be this year's defensive player of the year, averaging 11.3 points per game, 9.9 rebounds per game and 1.4 blocks per game. Anthony is an okay hustle player for the Heat but against a healthy Chandler it should be a tough matchup.
Bench:
Advantage: Knicks, J.R. Smith, Steve Novak both of those guys can score off the bench, it's just a matter of if J.R. can do it consistently. An X-Factor here also would be Fields if he finds his shot in this series, if these 3 Knicks are firing on all cylinders they could abuse Miami's bench.
Coaching:
Advantage: Tie, first off you have to give credit to Coach Spoelstra who had gotten the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals last season and second of all you have to give credit to Coach Woodson who took over for the resigned D'Antoni in style, went 17-6 in his place.
Intangibles:
Advantage: Miami, 3-0 vs the Knicks this season though in two of those games D'Antoni was Coach and these 2 teams had a rivalry in years past looking to renew it in this series.
Prediction: Heat in 4, it's just not happening for the Knicks right now.
7 New York Knicks vs 2 Miami Heat
Positional matchups:
PG Baron Davis vs PG Mario Chalmers
Advantage: Chalmers, now if Lin was playing I'd probably take Lin since he was playing pretty well while healthy, but with Davis playing and the unnecessary passes and shot taking he does sometimes not to mention Chalmers intensity on the defensive end I have to give the slight edge to Chalmers.
SG Iman Shumpert vs SG Dwyane Wade
Advantage: Wade, even though Shumpert has proven to be a pretty darn good perimeter defender, not bad for a rookie.
SF Carmelo Anthony vs SF LeBron James
Advantage: Tie, despite LeBron averaging more points per game than Melo with 27.1 to 22.6 this season, Melo in April averaged 30 points per game, LeBron is a great defender though so the slight edge might go to LeBron on this one. Regardless this could be a real fun matchup to watch.
PF Amare Stoudemire vs PF Chris Bosh
Advantage: Amare, despite his injuries and Bosh this past month has disappeared in big games down the stretch especially against Boston, not to mention Amare and this year's probable defensive player of the year Chandler might both switch on him making it tough for him to score in this series. Critcal matchup. Not to mention despite STAT's slow start he has averaged 17.5 points per game this season along with 7.9 rebounds. Bosh had around the same type of numbers with 18 points per game and the same amount of rebounds but his play in big games lately has been a concern.
C Tyson Chandler vs C Joel Anthony
Advantage: Chandler, again he might be this year's defensive player of the year, averaging 11.3 points per game, 9.9 rebounds per game and 1.4 blocks per game. Anthony is an okay hustle player for the Heat but against a healthy Chandler it should be a tough matchup.
Bench:
Advantage: Knicks, J.R. Smith, Steve Novak both of those guys can score off the bench, it's just a matter of if J.R. can do it consistently. An X-Factor here also would be Fields if he finds his shot in this series, if these 3 Knicks are firing on all cylinders they could abuse Miami's bench.
Coaching:
Advantage: Tie, first off you have to give credit to Coach Spoelstra who had gotten the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals last season and second of all you have to give credit to Coach Woodson who took over for the resigned D'Antoni in style, went 17-6 in his place.
Intangibles:
Advantage: Miami, 3-0 vs the Knicks this season though in two of those games D'Antoni was Coach and these 2 teams had a rivalry in years past looking to renew it in this series.
Prediction: Heat in 4, it's just not happening for the Knicks right now.
NBA Playoffs: Hawks vs Celtics
Eastern Conference Playoff Matchups:
5 Atlanta Hawks vs 4 Boston Celtics
Positional matchups:
PG Jason Teague vs PG Rajon Rondo
Advantage: Rondo, Rondo might be the best point guard in the league but this is no disrespect to Teague who is also a young and energetic point guard that could do some damage.
SG Kirk Hinrich vs SG Avery Bradley
Advantage: Hinrich, barely though since he's a veteran and Bradley is a pretty darn good perimeter defender.
SF Joe Johnson vs SF Paul Pierce:
Advantage: Tie, both are great offensive players but perhaps a slight advantage going to Pierce since he's a better defender.
PF Josh Smith vs PF Brandon Bass
Advantage: Smith, he has had himself a breakout season this year averaging 18.8 points per game, 9.6 rebounds per game, also averages 1.7 blocks per game. Bass has been a solid addition to the Cs though averaging 12.5 points per game, not to mention him moving to starting power forward was able to move KG to Center.
C Marvin Williams vs C Kevin Garnett
Advantage: Garnett, clear mismatch, the Cs have been on fire since the break since moving KG to Center where he has been playing more comfortably averaging 15.8 points per game and 8.2 assists per game. While Marvin Williams has been kind of a bust and is more of small forward than a center, there's a possibility he could get dominated.
Bench:
Advantage: Celtics, the Cs might have Ray Allen coming off the bench, clear advantage for them as he can still be very dangerous in games especially down the stretch and Pietrus isn't bad coming off the bench either who can knock down 3s, Cs could end up missing Jeff Green later in the playoffs however. Even though the Hawks have T-Mac, Willie Green coming off the bench.
Coaching:
Advantage: Celtics, Doc Rivers has done it before winning the Celtics a NBA championship in 2008 and back to the NBA Finals in 2010, hard to deny his coaching resume vs 2nd year coach Larry Drew.
Intangibles:
Advantage: Celtics, experience, T-Mac still hasn't gotten past the first round, small lineup (loss of Horford) though home court advantage might make this series longer than it should be for Atlanta's.
Prediction: Celtics in 6
5 Atlanta Hawks vs 4 Boston Celtics
Positional matchups:
PG Jason Teague vs PG Rajon Rondo
Advantage: Rondo, Rondo might be the best point guard in the league but this is no disrespect to Teague who is also a young and energetic point guard that could do some damage.
SG Kirk Hinrich vs SG Avery Bradley
Advantage: Hinrich, barely though since he's a veteran and Bradley is a pretty darn good perimeter defender.
SF Joe Johnson vs SF Paul Pierce:
Advantage: Tie, both are great offensive players but perhaps a slight advantage going to Pierce since he's a better defender.
PF Josh Smith vs PF Brandon Bass
Advantage: Smith, he has had himself a breakout season this year averaging 18.8 points per game, 9.6 rebounds per game, also averages 1.7 blocks per game. Bass has been a solid addition to the Cs though averaging 12.5 points per game, not to mention him moving to starting power forward was able to move KG to Center.
C Marvin Williams vs C Kevin Garnett
Advantage: Garnett, clear mismatch, the Cs have been on fire since the break since moving KG to Center where he has been playing more comfortably averaging 15.8 points per game and 8.2 assists per game. While Marvin Williams has been kind of a bust and is more of small forward than a center, there's a possibility he could get dominated.
Bench:
Advantage: Celtics, the Cs might have Ray Allen coming off the bench, clear advantage for them as he can still be very dangerous in games especially down the stretch and Pietrus isn't bad coming off the bench either who can knock down 3s, Cs could end up missing Jeff Green later in the playoffs however. Even though the Hawks have T-Mac, Willie Green coming off the bench.
Coaching:
Advantage: Celtics, Doc Rivers has done it before winning the Celtics a NBA championship in 2008 and back to the NBA Finals in 2010, hard to deny his coaching resume vs 2nd year coach Larry Drew.
Intangibles:
Advantage: Celtics, experience, T-Mac still hasn't gotten past the first round, small lineup (loss of Horford) though home court advantage might make this series longer than it should be for Atlanta's.
Prediction: Celtics in 6
NBA Playoffs Preview: 76ers vs Bulls
Eastern Conference Matchups:
8 Philadelphia 76ers vs 1 Chicago Bulls:
Positional Matchups:
PG Jrue Holiday vs PG Derrick Rose
Advantage: Rose, no competition Jru isn't a bad point guard but he isn't the complete player that D-Rose is.
SG Jodie Meeks vs SG Rip Hamilton
Advantage: Hamilton, the Bulls guard is finally healthy and no disrespect to Meeks but Rip is a veteran shooting guard that has done it before, he is the X-Factor to the Bulls playoff run.
SF Andre Iguodala vs SF Luol Deng
Advantage: Tie, both are really good defensive forwards that help make both their teams two of the best defensive teams in the NBA right now, surprisingly Deng averaged more points per game than Iggy though 15.3 to 12.4, so perhaps in that case a slight advantage going to Deng.
PF Elton Brand vs PF Carlos Boozer
Advantage: Boozer, based on the numbers he had a better statistical season than Brand 15 points per game to 11 points per game and 8.5 rebounds per game to 7.2 rebounds per game and the numbers never lie.
C Spencer Hawes vs C Joakim Noah
Advantage: Noah, again better numbers statistically almost averaged a double double with 10.2 points per game and 9.80 rebounds per game.
Bench:
Advantage: Bulls, easy decision here Chicago has Korver, Watson, Lucas, Gibson Asik all coming off the bench, clearly one of the best benches in the NBA right now if not the best, Sixers do have a dynamite scorer off the bench in Lou Williams but one major player off the bench is not enough to match the Bulls firepower here.
Coaching:
Advantage: Bulls, Doug Collins is a pretty good veteran coach, a big reason why Philly has been as good as a defensive team as it's been this year, but quite frankly Tom Thibodeau is an even better defensive coach than Collins who has kept his Bulls atop the Eastern Conference two years in a row now.
Intangibles:
Advantage: Bulls, their history, 96 Bulls, the odds are on their side.
Prediction: It will be a short series, Chicago is just too much, Bulls in 4.
8 Philadelphia 76ers vs 1 Chicago Bulls:
Positional Matchups:
PG Jrue Holiday vs PG Derrick Rose
Advantage: Rose, no competition Jru isn't a bad point guard but he isn't the complete player that D-Rose is.
SG Jodie Meeks vs SG Rip Hamilton
Advantage: Hamilton, the Bulls guard is finally healthy and no disrespect to Meeks but Rip is a veteran shooting guard that has done it before, he is the X-Factor to the Bulls playoff run.
SF Andre Iguodala vs SF Luol Deng
Advantage: Tie, both are really good defensive forwards that help make both their teams two of the best defensive teams in the NBA right now, surprisingly Deng averaged more points per game than Iggy though 15.3 to 12.4, so perhaps in that case a slight advantage going to Deng.
PF Elton Brand vs PF Carlos Boozer
Advantage: Boozer, based on the numbers he had a better statistical season than Brand 15 points per game to 11 points per game and 8.5 rebounds per game to 7.2 rebounds per game and the numbers never lie.
C Spencer Hawes vs C Joakim Noah
Advantage: Noah, again better numbers statistically almost averaged a double double with 10.2 points per game and 9.80 rebounds per game.
Bench:
Advantage: Bulls, easy decision here Chicago has Korver, Watson, Lucas, Gibson Asik all coming off the bench, clearly one of the best benches in the NBA right now if not the best, Sixers do have a dynamite scorer off the bench in Lou Williams but one major player off the bench is not enough to match the Bulls firepower here.
Coaching:
Advantage: Bulls, Doug Collins is a pretty good veteran coach, a big reason why Philly has been as good as a defensive team as it's been this year, but quite frankly Tom Thibodeau is an even better defensive coach than Collins who has kept his Bulls atop the Eastern Conference two years in a row now.
Intangibles:
Advantage: Bulls, their history, 96 Bulls, the odds are on their side.
Prediction: It will be a short series, Chicago is just too much, Bulls in 4.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Why Trading Up Wouldn't Be A Bad Idea For The Lions
Recently in a video on detroitlions.com, newly joined writer Mike O'Hara said do not be surprised if the Lions try to trade up on draft day. With that being said, honestly I can see it and as I have said before the Lions number one need is a CB and there is a chance Gilmore and Kirkpatrick could both be gone at 23, therefore the Lions might want to trade up a little bit to get either of them. Lets be honest they could and probably should at least talk with the Browns first who reportedly are not that sold on their 4th pick in position to get CB Morris Claiborne out of LSU, but seeing what Washington had to give up to St. Louis in order to get into position to draft RG3, probably not worth it. Now only trading 4-6 spots up probably would not cost the Lions the farm especially when you consider Washington traded from 7 to get a top 5 pick, trading up to just get a top 20 pick not even top 15 can't cost too much. Lets not forget last season the Lions had one first round pick and two second round picks thanks to moves Mayhew had made, he can do it again addressing their needs in a huge way.
There are so many possibilities the Lions could go in this draft, it could go offensive line and get Martin in the first round and trade up in the second round to get a CB possibly in Josh Robinson out of UCF or Janoris Jenkins out of Northern Alabama who could possibly fall to the 2nd round. Then again it could be the possibility of trading up from like 23-18 to take Dre or Gilmore in the 1st and then taking an offensive lineman in the second round, possibly trading up again to find Bobby Massey OT out of Ole Miss or Kevin Zeitler OG out of Wisconsin. Perhaps there is no reason doubting Mayhew to make a move that has us still having a first round pick and ending up with two second round picks, therefore being useful for three needs we could address in this draft, cornerback, offensive lineman and linebacker in no particular order, only by best player available in this case. Hard to deny it that Mayhew will do it again when checking his resume like when he took Fairley in the first round and getting two second round picks to draft WR Titus Young and RB Mikel LeShoure, also there being the 2010 NFL Draft where Mayhew had traded up from the 2nd round pick to a late first round pick to take RB Jahvid Best and of course the infamous Roy Williams trade to Dallas for a first rounder, third rounder and sixth rounder, that first rounder ended up being TE Brandon Pettigrew. One more scenario, if Martin, Dre and Stephon are all gone at 23 then they could look LB Donta Hightower out of Alabama, CB Alfonzo Dennard out of Nebraska in round 2, OG Brandon Washington out of Miami in round 3 and in round 4, I personally like C David Molk out of Michigan. No telling till draft day if Mayhew will strike once again.
There are so many possibilities the Lions could go in this draft, it could go offensive line and get Martin in the first round and trade up in the second round to get a CB possibly in Josh Robinson out of UCF or Janoris Jenkins out of Northern Alabama who could possibly fall to the 2nd round. Then again it could be the possibility of trading up from like 23-18 to take Dre or Gilmore in the 1st and then taking an offensive lineman in the second round, possibly trading up again to find Bobby Massey OT out of Ole Miss or Kevin Zeitler OG out of Wisconsin. Perhaps there is no reason doubting Mayhew to make a move that has us still having a first round pick and ending up with two second round picks, therefore being useful for three needs we could address in this draft, cornerback, offensive lineman and linebacker in no particular order, only by best player available in this case. Hard to deny it that Mayhew will do it again when checking his resume like when he took Fairley in the first round and getting two second round picks to draft WR Titus Young and RB Mikel LeShoure, also there being the 2010 NFL Draft where Mayhew had traded up from the 2nd round pick to a late first round pick to take RB Jahvid Best and of course the infamous Roy Williams trade to Dallas for a first rounder, third rounder and sixth rounder, that first rounder ended up being TE Brandon Pettigrew. One more scenario, if Martin, Dre and Stephon are all gone at 23 then they could look LB Donta Hightower out of Alabama, CB Alfonzo Dennard out of Nebraska in round 2, OG Brandon Washington out of Miami in round 3 and in round 4, I personally like C David Molk out of Michigan. No telling till draft day if Mayhew will strike once again.
Monday, April 9, 2012
NFL Mock Draft (Round 1 and 2 Final)
Round 1:
1. Indianapolis - QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
Notes: No surprise there the Colts are looking for the safest pick to replace Manning and Luck is it.
2. Washington - QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor
Notes: Again no surprise here, Washington traded their farm to land themselves a potential franchise QB and it might be well worth the move, time will tell.
3. Minnesota - OT Matt Kalil, USC
Notes: The Vikings seem sold on QB Christian Ponder, they will most likely look for an offensive lineman to protect him and Kalil is the best available.
4. Cleveland - RB Trent Richardson, Alabama
Notes: Now this is where it gets interesting, the Browns lost their starting RB Peyton Hillis this offseason and they'll be looking to replace him which is why Trent will be the pick here despite their need for WR.
5. Tampa Bay - CB Morris Claiborne, LSU
Notes: Despite his low wonderlic score, Claiborne is still expected to be the first CB taken in the draft and with Ronde Barber aging they'll be looking for his replacement at this spot.
6. St. Louis - WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
Notes: Last season Rams QB Sam Bradford had a QB rating of 70.5 a sophomore slump of a rating compared to his rookie season rating of 76.5 perhaps the best WR prospect in this draft can help that.
7. Jacksonville - WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
Notes: Rookie QB Blaine Gabbert had a huge amount of pressure on him last season possibly due to the success QBs Cam Newton and Andy Dalton were already having in their rookie seasons, here is a potential impact WR in Michael Floyd to help him out.
8. Miami - QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M
Notes: It would be hard to imagine that the Dolphins would go into the season with QB Matt Moore or David Garrard as their QB of the future and this is where they take their guy Tannehill.
9. Carolina - DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State
Notes: With the Panthers not too long signing their DE Charles Johnson to a six year, 72 million dollar contract, Carolina could add to their line with the best defensive player available in the draft, DT Cox, adding to the line with well-paid Johnson.
10. Buffalo - OT Riley Reiff, Iowa
Notes: If QB Ryan Fitzpatrick is the Bills QB of the future it would not hurt to get him some offensive line help then, Riley is the BPA (Best Player Available) at this point.
11. Kansas City - DE Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
Notes: The Chiefs lost a corner in Brandon Carr this free agency season to the Cowboys; however the next best corner available, Stephon Gilmore would be a real reach at this point so might as well improve the pass rush with the BPA.
12. Seattle - OG David DeCastro, Stanford
Notes: Now that the Seahawks signed their man at QB in Matt Flynn, they should start by getting him some protection, DeCastro is the pick here.
13. Arizona - LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
Notes: The Cardinals had the 18th best defense in the league last season could use a boost in their front 7 especially at linebacker, Kuechly is the pick here.
14. Dallas - DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina
Notes: Defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will be looking to improve the defense possibly the pass rush, Coples is the BPA.
15. Philadelphia - OT Cordy Glenn, Georgia
Notes: QB Michael Vick was sacked 23 times in the 2011 season, a number actually down from 34 times in his 2010 season, however he remains one of the most hit QBs in the NFL still because of his threat to run when in the pocket. Perhaps he would not be one of the most pressured and hit QBs in the league if Philly keeps on improving their protection, even though they drafted G Danny Watkins out of Baylor in the 1st round last season. But in Vick's case here though, the more protection, the better season he will have.
16. New York Jets - S Mark Barron, Alabama
Notes: The Jets recently signed a S in LaRon Landry, they might look to add to their secondary with Revis (obviously), Cromartie, Wilson and Landry all in place. Having Barron and Landry gives the Jets secondary two hard hitting safeties.
17. Cincinatti - CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
Notes: With his draft stock rising and going as high as 9 in mock drafts, even Pete Prisco of CBSSportsonline.com compared him to having the skills of a Charles Woodson, it has become clear that Gilmore will most likely be the second CB behind Claiborne to go in the draft. The Bengals could be looking for a replacement for Joseph who left last offseason for Houston; Gilmore could be the guy to fit nicely aside to CB Leon Hall.
18. San Diego - LB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama
Notes: With players like S Mark Barron and CB Stephon Gilmore off the board, LB Courtney Upshaw could be too hard to pass up.
19. Chicago - OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford
Notes: Unfortunately I got Martin (somebody the Lions are looking at) being taken by their rivals, the Bears....Jay Cutler along with Mike Vick is one of the most hit QBs in the league and could use improvement along the line to help Jay stay healthy throughout the season.
20. Tennessee - CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama
Notes: The Titans could use a corner after losing a good one in Cortland Finnegan and the best one available is Dre at this point.
21. Cincinatti - DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois
Notes: Well you know what they say, when it comes to drafting can never have too many defensive players especially when it comes to pass rushers and corners. The Bengals could also look at drafting a WR here to add along Green with Stephen Hill, but instead with Mercilus falling this far he would be hard to pass up.
22. Cleveland - WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
Notes: The Browns finally build around QB McCoy first with dynamic RB Richardson at 4 and a dynamic WR at 6'4, 209 pounds, and a frame similar to that other WR that came out of Georgia Tech...one that recently signed a deal through 2019 worth 132 million richest contract for a WR in NFL history...yeah that one. McCoy will finally get a chance to prove himself with weapons all around him in Trent Richardson, Stephen Hill and Greg Little (who might prove himself as a 2).
23. Detroit - CB Janoris Jenkins, Northern Alabama
Notes: Here is the shocker of the day, despite the recent troubles with last year's picks in Fairley and LeShoure, I think the Lions will end up taking a chance on Jenkins. For many reasons: 1. draft experts have called him possibly the best cover corner in the draft 2. Baggage is a concern, yet Lions might take a risk and draft him on talent alone and 3. Lions need help in the secondary, preferably a CB after not only Brees lit them up last postseason but so did the Packers backup QB (Now Seahawks starter) Matt Flynn keeping the Lions drought at Lambeau alive. Corner and offensive line are both needs for the Detroit Lions and I see them taking a chance on Jenkins. Since there is also a chance the Lions don't want to wonder what could have been just because the organization was afraid to take a risk, for example passing on Randy Moss in the 1998 NFL Draft. The Lions should take a chance on Jenkins if Gilmore or Dre is gone (unless they trade up for Gilmore) especially since with all the negativity surrounding Jenkins, he might have a chip on his shoulder, something to prove.
24. Pittsburgh - OT Mike Adams, Ohio State
Notes: Not only are Vick, Cutler 2 of the most hit QBs in the NFL, "Big" Ben Roethlisberger is among them as well, so since Ben needs more protection as well, 2 years in a row the Steelers draft an Ohio State player (last year with Heyward) in the 1st round of a draft.
25. Denver - DT Dontari Poe, Memphis
Notes: Poe was once the highest rated DT on the board, till Cox climbed up in favor of teams like the Rams and Panthers, Poe is the BPA and the Broncos do need defensive help on the line next to Dumervil.
26. Houston - WR Kendall Wright, Baylor
Notes: Houston aims to make their offense more dynamic with the addition of hometown favorite Kendall Wright at 5'10 190, a speed guy to work opposite WR Andre Johnson one of the best WRs in the NFL.
27. New England - DT Michael Brockers, LSU
Notes: 2 problems the Patriots had on defense last season as Super Bowl runner ups to the Giants again, an inconsistent secondary (though Arrington was good and McCourty could bounce back this season) and an ineffective pass rush. The pass rush was the bigger problem in this case; Brockers is a great prospect to work alongside Wilfork on the defensive line.
28. Green Bay - DE/OLB Nick Perry, USC
Notes: With positions filled in the secondary (Woodson, Williams, Shields), the linebacking corps (Matthews, Hawk) and at DT (Raji, Pickett). The needs are for a DE and S, and Nick Perry is the best player available and the Pack does need to improve that pass rush, so it would help to have a DE that could possibly make an impact as well, though he might be a better fit at outside linebacker.
29. Baltimore - LB Donta Hightower, Alabama
Notes: John Harbaugh is a defensive guy and might be looking for Ray Lewis's replacement since Ray is not getting any younger; the reports are that Harbaugh and the Ravens love Hightower.
30. San Francisco - DE Chandler Jones, Syracuse
Notes: With the additions of Moss, Manningham this offseason the Niners could improve the WR corps by adding young WR Alshon Jeffrey out of South Carolina, but the red flags surrounding him might scare SF from taking him.The Jim Harbaugh coached Niners arguably had the best defense in the NFL last season and could improve it even more by adding a defensive end, Jones is the best player available in this situation.
31. New England - WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
Notes: What a draft would this be for New England huh? First improving it's pass rush and then improving their receiving corps around Brady to look like Lloyd, Jeffrey, Welker, Branch, Gronkowski and Hernandez. Not to mention the Patriots would be adding to themselves a potential physical deep threat at 6'3, 216 that Brady has been lacking since Randy Moss. If anyone takes a risk on players with problems it would be Belichick, of course here the example would be Moss again.
32. New York Giants - RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech
Notes: The Super Bowl defending champions recently lost their downhill runner in Brandon Jacobs, the Giants could be looking for his replacement. So it is either looking like Virginia Tech RB David Wilson or Boise State RB Doug Martin as the second running back taken in the draft, it is a toss up but in this case I have Wilson being the power runner to replace Jacobs.
Round 2:
33. St. Louis Rams - G/OT Aminu Silatolu, Midwestern State
34. Indianapolis Colts - TE Coby Fleener, Stanford
35. Minnesota Vikings - WR Rueben Randle, LSU
36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - LB LaVonte David, Nebraska
37. Cleveland Browns - OG Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
38. Jacksonville Jaguars - CB Josh Robinson, UCF
39. St. Louis Rams - DT Kendall Reyes, UConn
40. Carolina Panthers - CB Brandon Boykin, Georgia
41. Buffalo Bills - SS Harrison Smith, Notre Dame
42. Miami Dolphins - WR Mohamed Sanu, Rutgers
43. Seattle Seahawks - DE/OLB Shea McClellin, Boise State
44. Kansas City Chiefs - RB Doug Martin, Boise State
45. Dallas Cowboys - QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State
46. Philadelphia Eagles - DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
47. New York Jets - DE/DT Devon Still, Penn State
48. New England Patriots - DE/OLB Ronnell Lewis, Oklahoma
49. San Diego Chargers - WR Brian Quick, Appalachian State
50. Chicago Bears - CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech
51. Philadelphia Eagles - DE/OLB Andre Branch, Clemson
52. Tennessee Titans - ILB Mychael Kendricks, California
53. Cincinatti Bengals - RB Lamar Miller, Miami
54. Detroit Lions - C/G Peter Konz, Wisconsin
55. Atlanta Falcons - G Bobby Massie, OT, Ole Miss
56. Pittsburgh Steelers - G Kelechi Osemele, Iowa State
57. Denver Broncos - QB Kirk Cousins, Michigan State
58. Houston Texans - LB Bobby Wagner, Utah State
59. Green Bay Packers - DE Vinny Curry, Marshall
60. Baltimore Ravens - DT Brandon Thompson, Clemson
61. San Francisco 49ers - OT Mitchell Schwartz, California
62. New England Patriots - CB Trumaine Johnson, Montana
63. New York Giants - TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson
1. Indianapolis - QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
Notes: No surprise there the Colts are looking for the safest pick to replace Manning and Luck is it.
2. Washington - QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor
Notes: Again no surprise here, Washington traded their farm to land themselves a potential franchise QB and it might be well worth the move, time will tell.
3. Minnesota - OT Matt Kalil, USC
Notes: The Vikings seem sold on QB Christian Ponder, they will most likely look for an offensive lineman to protect him and Kalil is the best available.
4. Cleveland - RB Trent Richardson, Alabama
Notes: Now this is where it gets interesting, the Browns lost their starting RB Peyton Hillis this offseason and they'll be looking to replace him which is why Trent will be the pick here despite their need for WR.
5. Tampa Bay - CB Morris Claiborne, LSU
Notes: Despite his low wonderlic score, Claiborne is still expected to be the first CB taken in the draft and with Ronde Barber aging they'll be looking for his replacement at this spot.
6. St. Louis - WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
Notes: Last season Rams QB Sam Bradford had a QB rating of 70.5 a sophomore slump of a rating compared to his rookie season rating of 76.5 perhaps the best WR prospect in this draft can help that.
7. Jacksonville - WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
Notes: Rookie QB Blaine Gabbert had a huge amount of pressure on him last season possibly due to the success QBs Cam Newton and Andy Dalton were already having in their rookie seasons, here is a potential impact WR in Michael Floyd to help him out.
8. Miami - QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M
Notes: It would be hard to imagine that the Dolphins would go into the season with QB Matt Moore or David Garrard as their QB of the future and this is where they take their guy Tannehill.
9. Carolina - DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State
Notes: With the Panthers not too long signing their DE Charles Johnson to a six year, 72 million dollar contract, Carolina could add to their line with the best defensive player available in the draft, DT Cox, adding to the line with well-paid Johnson.
10. Buffalo - OT Riley Reiff, Iowa
Notes: If QB Ryan Fitzpatrick is the Bills QB of the future it would not hurt to get him some offensive line help then, Riley is the BPA (Best Player Available) at this point.
11. Kansas City - DE Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
Notes: The Chiefs lost a corner in Brandon Carr this free agency season to the Cowboys; however the next best corner available, Stephon Gilmore would be a real reach at this point so might as well improve the pass rush with the BPA.
12. Seattle - OG David DeCastro, Stanford
Notes: Now that the Seahawks signed their man at QB in Matt Flynn, they should start by getting him some protection, DeCastro is the pick here.
13. Arizona - LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
Notes: The Cardinals had the 18th best defense in the league last season could use a boost in their front 7 especially at linebacker, Kuechly is the pick here.
14. Dallas - DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina
Notes: Defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will be looking to improve the defense possibly the pass rush, Coples is the BPA.
15. Philadelphia - OT Cordy Glenn, Georgia
Notes: QB Michael Vick was sacked 23 times in the 2011 season, a number actually down from 34 times in his 2010 season, however he remains one of the most hit QBs in the NFL still because of his threat to run when in the pocket. Perhaps he would not be one of the most pressured and hit QBs in the league if Philly keeps on improving their protection, even though they drafted G Danny Watkins out of Baylor in the 1st round last season. But in Vick's case here though, the more protection, the better season he will have.
16. New York Jets - S Mark Barron, Alabama
Notes: The Jets recently signed a S in LaRon Landry, they might look to add to their secondary with Revis (obviously), Cromartie, Wilson and Landry all in place. Having Barron and Landry gives the Jets secondary two hard hitting safeties.
17. Cincinatti - CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
Notes: With his draft stock rising and going as high as 9 in mock drafts, even Pete Prisco of CBSSportsonline.com compared him to having the skills of a Charles Woodson, it has become clear that Gilmore will most likely be the second CB behind Claiborne to go in the draft. The Bengals could be looking for a replacement for Joseph who left last offseason for Houston; Gilmore could be the guy to fit nicely aside to CB Leon Hall.
18. San Diego - LB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama
Notes: With players like S Mark Barron and CB Stephon Gilmore off the board, LB Courtney Upshaw could be too hard to pass up.
19. Chicago - OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford
Notes: Unfortunately I got Martin (somebody the Lions are looking at) being taken by their rivals, the Bears....Jay Cutler along with Mike Vick is one of the most hit QBs in the league and could use improvement along the line to help Jay stay healthy throughout the season.
20. Tennessee - CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama
Notes: The Titans could use a corner after losing a good one in Cortland Finnegan and the best one available is Dre at this point.
21. Cincinatti - DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois
Notes: Well you know what they say, when it comes to drafting can never have too many defensive players especially when it comes to pass rushers and corners. The Bengals could also look at drafting a WR here to add along Green with Stephen Hill, but instead with Mercilus falling this far he would be hard to pass up.
22. Cleveland - WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
Notes: The Browns finally build around QB McCoy first with dynamic RB Richardson at 4 and a dynamic WR at 6'4, 209 pounds, and a frame similar to that other WR that came out of Georgia Tech...one that recently signed a deal through 2019 worth 132 million richest contract for a WR in NFL history...yeah that one. McCoy will finally get a chance to prove himself with weapons all around him in Trent Richardson, Stephen Hill and Greg Little (who might prove himself as a 2).
23. Detroit - CB Janoris Jenkins, Northern Alabama
Notes: Here is the shocker of the day, despite the recent troubles with last year's picks in Fairley and LeShoure, I think the Lions will end up taking a chance on Jenkins. For many reasons: 1. draft experts have called him possibly the best cover corner in the draft 2. Baggage is a concern, yet Lions might take a risk and draft him on talent alone and 3. Lions need help in the secondary, preferably a CB after not only Brees lit them up last postseason but so did the Packers backup QB (Now Seahawks starter) Matt Flynn keeping the Lions drought at Lambeau alive. Corner and offensive line are both needs for the Detroit Lions and I see them taking a chance on Jenkins. Since there is also a chance the Lions don't want to wonder what could have been just because the organization was afraid to take a risk, for example passing on Randy Moss in the 1998 NFL Draft. The Lions should take a chance on Jenkins if Gilmore or Dre is gone (unless they trade up for Gilmore) especially since with all the negativity surrounding Jenkins, he might have a chip on his shoulder, something to prove.
24. Pittsburgh - OT Mike Adams, Ohio State
Notes: Not only are Vick, Cutler 2 of the most hit QBs in the NFL, "Big" Ben Roethlisberger is among them as well, so since Ben needs more protection as well, 2 years in a row the Steelers draft an Ohio State player (last year with Heyward) in the 1st round of a draft.
25. Denver - DT Dontari Poe, Memphis
Notes: Poe was once the highest rated DT on the board, till Cox climbed up in favor of teams like the Rams and Panthers, Poe is the BPA and the Broncos do need defensive help on the line next to Dumervil.
26. Houston - WR Kendall Wright, Baylor
Notes: Houston aims to make their offense more dynamic with the addition of hometown favorite Kendall Wright at 5'10 190, a speed guy to work opposite WR Andre Johnson one of the best WRs in the NFL.
27. New England - DT Michael Brockers, LSU
Notes: 2 problems the Patriots had on defense last season as Super Bowl runner ups to the Giants again, an inconsistent secondary (though Arrington was good and McCourty could bounce back this season) and an ineffective pass rush. The pass rush was the bigger problem in this case; Brockers is a great prospect to work alongside Wilfork on the defensive line.
28. Green Bay - DE/OLB Nick Perry, USC
Notes: With positions filled in the secondary (Woodson, Williams, Shields), the linebacking corps (Matthews, Hawk) and at DT (Raji, Pickett). The needs are for a DE and S, and Nick Perry is the best player available and the Pack does need to improve that pass rush, so it would help to have a DE that could possibly make an impact as well, though he might be a better fit at outside linebacker.
29. Baltimore - LB Donta Hightower, Alabama
Notes: John Harbaugh is a defensive guy and might be looking for Ray Lewis's replacement since Ray is not getting any younger; the reports are that Harbaugh and the Ravens love Hightower.
30. San Francisco - DE Chandler Jones, Syracuse
Notes: With the additions of Moss, Manningham this offseason the Niners could improve the WR corps by adding young WR Alshon Jeffrey out of South Carolina, but the red flags surrounding him might scare SF from taking him.The Jim Harbaugh coached Niners arguably had the best defense in the NFL last season and could improve it even more by adding a defensive end, Jones is the best player available in this situation.
31. New England - WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
Notes: What a draft would this be for New England huh? First improving it's pass rush and then improving their receiving corps around Brady to look like Lloyd, Jeffrey, Welker, Branch, Gronkowski and Hernandez. Not to mention the Patriots would be adding to themselves a potential physical deep threat at 6'3, 216 that Brady has been lacking since Randy Moss. If anyone takes a risk on players with problems it would be Belichick, of course here the example would be Moss again.
32. New York Giants - RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech
Notes: The Super Bowl defending champions recently lost their downhill runner in Brandon Jacobs, the Giants could be looking for his replacement. So it is either looking like Virginia Tech RB David Wilson or Boise State RB Doug Martin as the second running back taken in the draft, it is a toss up but in this case I have Wilson being the power runner to replace Jacobs.
Round 2:
33. St. Louis Rams - G/OT Aminu Silatolu, Midwestern State
34. Indianapolis Colts - TE Coby Fleener, Stanford
35. Minnesota Vikings - WR Rueben Randle, LSU
36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - LB LaVonte David, Nebraska
37. Cleveland Browns - OG Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
38. Jacksonville Jaguars - CB Josh Robinson, UCF
39. St. Louis Rams - DT Kendall Reyes, UConn
40. Carolina Panthers - CB Brandon Boykin, Georgia
41. Buffalo Bills - SS Harrison Smith, Notre Dame
42. Miami Dolphins - WR Mohamed Sanu, Rutgers
43. Seattle Seahawks - DE/OLB Shea McClellin, Boise State
44. Kansas City Chiefs - RB Doug Martin, Boise State
45. Dallas Cowboys - QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State
46. Philadelphia Eagles - DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
47. New York Jets - DE/DT Devon Still, Penn State
48. New England Patriots - DE/OLB Ronnell Lewis, Oklahoma
49. San Diego Chargers - WR Brian Quick, Appalachian State
50. Chicago Bears - CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech
51. Philadelphia Eagles - DE/OLB Andre Branch, Clemson
52. Tennessee Titans - ILB Mychael Kendricks, California
53. Cincinatti Bengals - RB Lamar Miller, Miami
54. Detroit Lions - C/G Peter Konz, Wisconsin
55. Atlanta Falcons - G Bobby Massie, OT, Ole Miss
56. Pittsburgh Steelers - G Kelechi Osemele, Iowa State
57. Denver Broncos - QB Kirk Cousins, Michigan State
58. Houston Texans - LB Bobby Wagner, Utah State
59. Green Bay Packers - DE Vinny Curry, Marshall
60. Baltimore Ravens - DT Brandon Thompson, Clemson
61. San Francisco 49ers - OT Mitchell Schwartz, California
62. New England Patriots - CB Trumaine Johnson, Montana
63. New York Giants - TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
MLB Preview
NL Central
1. Pittsburgh Pirates (Last years record: 72-90)
2. St. Louis Cardinals (Last years record 90-72)
3. Cincinatti Reds (Last years record 79-83)
4. Milwaukee Brewers (Last years record 96-66)
5. Houston Astros (Last years record 56-106)
6. Chicago Cubs (Last years record 71-91)
Notes: Yes in my first division preview, I'm clearly giving you a curveball as I make the bold prediction of the Pittsburgh Pirates not only making the playoffs but winning the division. Remember that one point halfway through the season when the Pirates were on top of this division and the media was making a big frenzy about it and then it all fell apart. Well with the NL Central losing major sluggers with Albert Pujols (From STL to LAA) and Prince Fielder (From MIL to DET) and the leadership of Andrew McCutchen and the addition of starting Pitcher Erik Bedard to the Pirates this may be their best chance of any to shock the world. Of course St. Louis could still win the NL Central with the starting pitching they have with Carpenter, Lohse and Wainright however with Carpenter out it could be some difficulty. Milwaukee has some starting pitching with Gallardo, Greinke and hitters Ryan Braun, Aramis Ramirez, Corey Hart, Carlos Gomez and Rickie Weeks that could possibly withstand the loss of Fielder. St. Louis has some hitters in Matt Holiday, David Freese, Lance Berkman and possibly Carlos Beltran if healthy to withstand their loss of Pujols. Houston doesn't have too much besides Carlos Lee and maybe Jed Lowrie, Cubs could surprise a little bit with young talent in SS Starlin Castro, along with that veteran leadership in Alfonso Soriano, new addition David DeJesus and some pitching in their SPs Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza, but it just doesn't seem like the time that all of a sudden the Cubs will good again so I still have them in the basement of the NL Central.
NL East
1. Philadelphia Phillies (Last years record 102-60)
2. Atlanta Braves (Last years record 89-73)
3. Miami Marlins (Last years record 72-90)
4. Washington Nationals (Last years record 80-81)
5. New York Mets (Last years record 77-85)
Notes: More insight tomorrow.
NL West
1. San Francisco Giants (Last years record 86-76)
2. Arizona Diamondbacks (Last years record 94-68)
3. Los Angeles Dodgers (Last years record 82-79)
4. San Diego Padres (Last years record 71-91)
5. Colorado Rockies (Last years record 73-89)
AL East
1. New York Yankees (Last years record 97-65)
2.Tampa Bay Rays (Last years record 91-71)
3. Toronto Blue Jays (Last years record 81-81)
4. Boston Red Sox (Last years record 90-72)
5. Baltimore Orioles (Last years record 69-93)
AL Central
1. Detroit Tigers (Last years record 95-67)
2. Cleveland Indians (Last years record 80-82)
3. Chicago White Sox (Last years record 79-83)
4. Kansas City Royals (Last years record 71-91)
5. Minnesota Twins (Last years record 63-99)
AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels (Last years record 86-76)
2. Texas Rangers (Last years record 96-66)
3. Oakland Athletics (Last years record 74-88)
4. Seattle Mariners (Last years record 67-95)
1. Pittsburgh Pirates (Last years record: 72-90)
2. St. Louis Cardinals (Last years record 90-72)
3. Cincinatti Reds (Last years record 79-83)
4. Milwaukee Brewers (Last years record 96-66)
5. Houston Astros (Last years record 56-106)
6. Chicago Cubs (Last years record 71-91)
Notes: Yes in my first division preview, I'm clearly giving you a curveball as I make the bold prediction of the Pittsburgh Pirates not only making the playoffs but winning the division. Remember that one point halfway through the season when the Pirates were on top of this division and the media was making a big frenzy about it and then it all fell apart. Well with the NL Central losing major sluggers with Albert Pujols (From STL to LAA) and Prince Fielder (From MIL to DET) and the leadership of Andrew McCutchen and the addition of starting Pitcher Erik Bedard to the Pirates this may be their best chance of any to shock the world. Of course St. Louis could still win the NL Central with the starting pitching they have with Carpenter, Lohse and Wainright however with Carpenter out it could be some difficulty. Milwaukee has some starting pitching with Gallardo, Greinke and hitters Ryan Braun, Aramis Ramirez, Corey Hart, Carlos Gomez and Rickie Weeks that could possibly withstand the loss of Fielder. St. Louis has some hitters in Matt Holiday, David Freese, Lance Berkman and possibly Carlos Beltran if healthy to withstand their loss of Pujols. Houston doesn't have too much besides Carlos Lee and maybe Jed Lowrie, Cubs could surprise a little bit with young talent in SS Starlin Castro, along with that veteran leadership in Alfonso Soriano, new addition David DeJesus and some pitching in their SPs Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza, but it just doesn't seem like the time that all of a sudden the Cubs will good again so I still have them in the basement of the NL Central.
NL East
1. Philadelphia Phillies (Last years record 102-60)
2. Atlanta Braves (Last years record 89-73)
3. Miami Marlins (Last years record 72-90)
4. Washington Nationals (Last years record 80-81)
5. New York Mets (Last years record 77-85)
Notes: More insight tomorrow.
NL West
1. San Francisco Giants (Last years record 86-76)
2. Arizona Diamondbacks (Last years record 94-68)
3. Los Angeles Dodgers (Last years record 82-79)
4. San Diego Padres (Last years record 71-91)
5. Colorado Rockies (Last years record 73-89)
AL East
1. New York Yankees (Last years record 97-65)
2.Tampa Bay Rays (Last years record 91-71)
3. Toronto Blue Jays (Last years record 81-81)
4. Boston Red Sox (Last years record 90-72)
5. Baltimore Orioles (Last years record 69-93)
AL Central
1. Detroit Tigers (Last years record 95-67)
2. Cleveland Indians (Last years record 80-82)
3. Chicago White Sox (Last years record 79-83)
4. Kansas City Royals (Last years record 71-91)
5. Minnesota Twins (Last years record 63-99)
AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels (Last years record 86-76)
2. Texas Rangers (Last years record 96-66)
3. Oakland Athletics (Last years record 74-88)
4. Seattle Mariners (Last years record 67-95)
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Perhaps the Miami hype could be a good thing?
Somebody tell me what is it with the Miami teams lately (excluding the Dolphins) first it was the Miami Heat resigning Dwyane Wade, adding Chris Bosh and of course the one with the infamous " the decision" the LeBron James. Now with the Miami Marlins (former known as the Florida Marlins) after getting Mark Buehrle and of course the Jose Reyes in free agency, not to mention Ozzie Guillen (wasn't that like the first time a manager got traded to a team?) as their new manager, just like the Heat some have jumped on the Miami bandwagon. For example, Skip Bayless of First Take (one who I consider to be an interesting and very entertaining journalist) has gone on to say not only will the Marlins win the NL East now but they'll go on to not only make the World Series but win the World Series. Not to mention ESPN's first televised MLB game of the season is the Cardinals vs these Marlins, so I wonder why does it seem like the national media is all on Miamis jock now? Then again could this hype put teams like the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (who signed Pujols this offseason) and our very own Detroit Tigers (who signed Prince Fielder this offseason after losing V-Mart and coming off an ALCS appearance) under the radar.
Therefore putting less pressure on those teams perhaps making it easier for them to succeed. If that's the case ESPN can stay on Miami's jock if it's going to take our own Detroit Tigers back to the World Series. Sounds like a good deal to me, what do you think?
Therefore putting less pressure on those teams perhaps making it easier for them to succeed. If that's the case ESPN can stay on Miami's jock if it's going to take our own Detroit Tigers back to the World Series. Sounds like a good deal to me, what do you think?
Fairley too? Really?
I can't believe a day after LeShoure the Lions former 2nd round draft pick gets busted for possession of marijuana, same thing happens to the Lions former 1st round pick Fairley whom is expected to form quite a tandem with Suh. One thing I don't get...if you're going to smoke marijuana....why would you do it while driving? That's pretty damn similar to drunk driving, if you slip up you're going to get caught, it's common sense. However like I said before they (professional athletes) shouldn't even do that they're professionals they need to start acting like it. For example Mike Valenti of 97.1 made a couple of good points on the air today, one, don't do drugs, two, wear a condom and three, walk away from fights.
Players like Fairley, LeShoure, Antonio Cromartie and Braylon Edwards could all learn something from these 3 rules, again it's not that hard you're a professional start acting like it.
Players like Fairley, LeShoure, Antonio Cromartie and Braylon Edwards could all learn something from these 3 rules, again it's not that hard you're a professional start acting like it.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Lets hope Mikel LeShoure is not the next Charles Rogers
The Detroit Lions really haven't had a good running back since maybe Kevin Jones but he couldn't even be consistent since he did suffer from an injury each year. After the Monday Night Football game vs the Bears last season it looked like for sure the Lions had finally had found a running back in Jahvid Best as he had 12 carries for 163 yards including the long explosive 88 yard touchdown run on a draw that even had Bears LB Brian Urlacher shaking his head. But then sure enough sooner or later he was kept out due to concussions just like he was kept out his rookie season due to turf toe. Last year the Lions drafted RB Mikel LeShoure out of the 2nd round (57th overall pick) with the hope of having that mix of thunder (LeShoure) and lightning (Best) at the RB spot like how recent Super Bowl champions the NY Giants had Bradshaw for speed and Jacobs for power. When Mikel LeShoure tore his achilles in training camp it sure looked like it would be a blow to their running game and when Best went out as well later during the season, it sure was.
Now just recently, LeShoure got caught for possession of marijuana, news that brought back more bad memories. With the recent trouble with the police and the injury suffered in practice it unfortunately brought back memories of a former Detroit Lion that has had very recent trouble with the police and suffered an injury in practice his rookie season before, Charles Rogers. Not to mention as we all recently know now Rogers has not only been one of the biggest busts ever in the NFL he has been one of the biggest busts ever in life. Why? He never took his job seriously. So the best thing here for Mikel is to learn from Rogers mistakes as in don't make anymore, he has to realize that he is in the NFL now, he has to realize he is not going through his college years anymore, so he needs to ditch the weed and realize that he is a professional now, so it's time for him to start taking his job seriously because I'm sure he doesn't want to end up in the slump that Rogers is in now. So if everybody could please take a second, I'd like everybody to fold their hands together get down on their knees, close their eyes and pray for LeShoure to get himself right. Amen.
Now just recently, LeShoure got caught for possession of marijuana, news that brought back more bad memories. With the recent trouble with the police and the injury suffered in practice it unfortunately brought back memories of a former Detroit Lion that has had very recent trouble with the police and suffered an injury in practice his rookie season before, Charles Rogers. Not to mention as we all recently know now Rogers has not only been one of the biggest busts ever in the NFL he has been one of the biggest busts ever in life. Why? He never took his job seriously. So the best thing here for Mikel is to learn from Rogers mistakes as in don't make anymore, he has to realize that he is in the NFL now, he has to realize he is not going through his college years anymore, so he needs to ditch the weed and realize that he is a professional now, so it's time for him to start taking his job seriously because I'm sure he doesn't want to end up in the slump that Rogers is in now. So if everybody could please take a second, I'd like everybody to fold their hands together get down on their knees, close their eyes and pray for LeShoure to get himself right. Amen.
Austin Jackson, is the 3rd season the charm?
It doesn't seem too long ago when the infamous blockbuster deal between the Detroit Tigers, Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Yankees had happened. As to who won or lost the trade is still yet to be determined as in this 3 team deal the Detroit Tigers received CF Austin Jackson, left handed relief pitcher Phil Coke from the Yankees, relief pitcher Daniel Schlereth and SP Max Scherzer from the Diamondbacks. The Yankees received CF Curtis Granderson (also known as Grandy) from the Detroit Tigers and the Diamondbacks got SP Edwin Jackson from the Tigers and SP Ian Kennedy from the Yankees. Last season for the Yankees Curtis Granderson (selected starting CF for the All Star team) finished with a .262 batting average but also hit a whopping 41 homers good for 2nd in MLB only behind Bautista's 43, a career high in RBIs with 119 that season and finished 4th in MVP voting. Ian Kennedy had a breakout year as a SP for the Arizona Diamondbacks (who ended up winning the NL West last year under manager former Tiger Kirk Gibson) with 21 wins and only 4 losses with a 2.88 era yet only finished 4th in NL Cy Young voting.
Edwin Jackson has since floated from team to team from the White Sox to the Cardinals to now recently the Washington Nationals. As for our Tigers now, Max Scherzer won 15 games and only lost 9 but still recorded a ERA last season of 4.43. Now as for Austin Jackson's season he finished with a batting average of .249 down from his rookie average of .293 but his home runs went up from 4 in his rookie season to 10. That brings to speculation perhaps in his rookie season he was just hitting for contact and now he have been hitting for more power in his second season. Funny thing is a former Tigers CF by the name of Curtis Granderson (I think you see where i'm going here) wouldn't even hit as high as an average Jackson hit in his rookie season until his 4th season as a Tiger when he batted .302 and hit 23 homers.
The point here is if it took Granderson 4 seasons to get towards his prime then perhaps with the rookie season Jackson had there's a chance that his 2nd season might have just been a sophomore slump. One thing that hasn't changed for Jackson though these seasons is his fielding whether it'd be from robbing homers, triples and doubles to gunning runners down at the plate, and his ability to get on base and steal, stealing 22 times but only got caught 5 times last season. Not to mention again he did hit 6 more homers than he did in his rookie season and if we were to compare him to Granderson the way Granderson progressed in hitting home runs for the Tigers it should be a good sign. As Granderson didn't really become a full time starter till his 3rd season and went from 19 to 23 to 22 to 30 homers over those seasons, Jackson became a full time starter his rookie year. Another thing to consider right now is Austin Jackson is only 25 and still progressing as a MLB player, Granderson at age 31 is just now entering his prime.
With all this being said I'm willing to make a bold prediction that Jackson cuts down on his strikeouts and hits a career high 20 home runs this season, I believe his power his truly developing and we'll see it this season. So far he's batting .284 in Spring Training with 2 home runs and yes 20 strikeouts, however as Jhonny Peralta proved last season don't put too much stock into Spring Training as he had a .197 average in ST yet a .299 average in the regular season, funny how things can change. I've at times been wrong and I've at times been right for example I felt that Granderson playing in that new Yankee Stadium to his benefit could hit 40 homers if he stayed healthy all season he did, he hit 41. So at age 25, Tigers fans it's not time to give up on Jackson quite yet especially since he did have that one hot stretch in August, early September before Detroit went on to win their first AL Central division title. Anything is possible.
Edwin Jackson has since floated from team to team from the White Sox to the Cardinals to now recently the Washington Nationals. As for our Tigers now, Max Scherzer won 15 games and only lost 9 but still recorded a ERA last season of 4.43. Now as for Austin Jackson's season he finished with a batting average of .249 down from his rookie average of .293 but his home runs went up from 4 in his rookie season to 10. That brings to speculation perhaps in his rookie season he was just hitting for contact and now he have been hitting for more power in his second season. Funny thing is a former Tigers CF by the name of Curtis Granderson (I think you see where i'm going here) wouldn't even hit as high as an average Jackson hit in his rookie season until his 4th season as a Tiger when he batted .302 and hit 23 homers.
The point here is if it took Granderson 4 seasons to get towards his prime then perhaps with the rookie season Jackson had there's a chance that his 2nd season might have just been a sophomore slump. One thing that hasn't changed for Jackson though these seasons is his fielding whether it'd be from robbing homers, triples and doubles to gunning runners down at the plate, and his ability to get on base and steal, stealing 22 times but only got caught 5 times last season. Not to mention again he did hit 6 more homers than he did in his rookie season and if we were to compare him to Granderson the way Granderson progressed in hitting home runs for the Tigers it should be a good sign. As Granderson didn't really become a full time starter till his 3rd season and went from 19 to 23 to 22 to 30 homers over those seasons, Jackson became a full time starter his rookie year. Another thing to consider right now is Austin Jackson is only 25 and still progressing as a MLB player, Granderson at age 31 is just now entering his prime.
With all this being said I'm willing to make a bold prediction that Jackson cuts down on his strikeouts and hits a career high 20 home runs this season, I believe his power his truly developing and we'll see it this season. So far he's batting .284 in Spring Training with 2 home runs and yes 20 strikeouts, however as Jhonny Peralta proved last season don't put too much stock into Spring Training as he had a .197 average in ST yet a .299 average in the regular season, funny how things can change. I've at times been wrong and I've at times been right for example I felt that Granderson playing in that new Yankee Stadium to his benefit could hit 40 homers if he stayed healthy all season he did, he hit 41. So at age 25, Tigers fans it's not time to give up on Jackson quite yet especially since he did have that one hot stretch in August, early September before Detroit went on to win their first AL Central division title. Anything is possible.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Lions Draft Analysis and A Possible Solution(s) To Their Problems
Last season despite the Detroit Lions going 10-6 in the 2011 season to clinch a wild card playoff spot, they were ranked 23rd in the league for points allowed with 24.2 per game. Their defense was also ranked 22nd against the pass with 239.4 yards allowed per game, not to mention ranked last in the postseason with 459 yards allowed per game (even though they only played one game obviously, that number is insane). Excuses have been made saying the defensive line didn't play as well as they should have and that anyone would lose to the Saints the way the Lions did in the Wild Card round. Now all of that may be true however you could make an argument that perhaps building a solid secondary would make things easier for the defensive line, good coverage giving them more time to find the trenches and attack the QB. The secondary could definitely use a boost especially when a backup QB (i.e. Matt Flynn) puts up 480 yards, 6 TDs on your team's defense....
Despite being Mossed by Devery Henderson in that Sunday Night game vs the Saints last season, Eric Wright numberwise was a solid corner (67 tackles, 7 assists, 16 pass deflections, 4 interceptions and one forced fumble) and now has left the Lions for the Bucs a move that possible might make the Lions secondary worse than it was last season. From the position where the Lions are drafting a couple corners come to mind that might be available at the 23rd spot. With Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick to South Carolina CB Stephen Gilmore though either falling to the Lions could be unlikely as well, leaving them in a tough position. Lions GM Martin Mayhew has lately been using the "take the best player available scenario" (for example, taking DT Nick Fairley over CB Prince Amukamara last season to pair up with DT Ndamukong Suh). With that being said if Kirkpatrick or Gilmore are both off the board at 23 it would make it harder to find a corner they could use since Janoris Jenkins CB out of Northern Alabama would be considered a "reach" at that point since he's expected to be a high 2nd round pick at least (Todd McShay has him going to the Panthers with their 40th overall pick in his latest mock draft). Sure the Lions could make a trade for Eagles CB Asante Samuel for a 3rd round pick to help address that secondary, there is only one problem....the limited amount of cap room they have available this season.
In other words the Lions could make an acquisition for him but still would have to pay him...so with that limited cap room the Lions have, the probability of this move happening is pretty much impossible. Sure at the 23rd overall pick the Lions don't necessarily have to address the secondary if the right player isn't available, the Lions could address the offensive line instead, either or. However last season Detroit's offensive line only allowed 36 sacks last season good for 17th in the league, only allowing 8 and 4 more than last season's Super Bowl finalists, the Giants and the Patriots. So with that being said their offensive line wasn't that bad, at least not as bad as the numbers the secondary allowed, just like Jay-Z once said "Men lie, women lie, numbers don't." But despite the recent resigning of offensive tackle Jeff Backus, the thing to consider is he is 34 and isn't getting any younger so the Lions might want to start setting up our future to reboost the offensive line. Then again with that being said the Lions could address that in the 1st or 2nd round depending what player is available in either round whether it's offensive guard Mike Adams out of Ohio State or Jeff Allen offensive guard out of Illinois.
The Lions could start rebuilding the offensive line this season or next season or both, for example in the 2nd round this season and the 1st round next season. With teams within the division making moves, particularly the hated Chicago Bears with the acquisations of WR Brandon Marshall, RB Michael Bush and QB Jason Campbell to backup Jay Cutler (to keep their playoff hopes alive, something Caleb Hanie couldn't do when the impossible happened to Cutler for the Bears to collapse and the Lions to make the playoffs, sad but true), there are no more excuses for GM Martin Mayhew to not make a move(s) to fill up holes that their franchise may (desperately) need. With that being said Chicago now has something they didn't have last season a top notch WR and a backup QB, so nothing is guaranteed that the Lions can win as many games as they won or even win as many as last season unless impact move(s) are made. Now with WR Calvin Johnson extended through 2019 and LB Stephen Tulloch resigned for 5 years, the only player left to resign for a long term deal is DE Cliff Avril. However if Avril is asking for too much money, a possible solution may be to have him agree to a sign and trade that brings the Lions either a solid young CB or pick(s) (depending if a 1st rounder or high 2nd rounder is included in the deal). So in conclusion either the offensive line or secondary could be addressed with their 1st round pick, depending on best player available, yet if a deal is made (Avril example) for a CB or high pick(s) perhaps their needs of CB, OG and LB could all be addressed, surprise the fans Mayhew.
Despite being Mossed by Devery Henderson in that Sunday Night game vs the Saints last season, Eric Wright numberwise was a solid corner (67 tackles, 7 assists, 16 pass deflections, 4 interceptions and one forced fumble) and now has left the Lions for the Bucs a move that possible might make the Lions secondary worse than it was last season. From the position where the Lions are drafting a couple corners come to mind that might be available at the 23rd spot. With Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick to South Carolina CB Stephen Gilmore though either falling to the Lions could be unlikely as well, leaving them in a tough position. Lions GM Martin Mayhew has lately been using the "take the best player available scenario" (for example, taking DT Nick Fairley over CB Prince Amukamara last season to pair up with DT Ndamukong Suh). With that being said if Kirkpatrick or Gilmore are both off the board at 23 it would make it harder to find a corner they could use since Janoris Jenkins CB out of Northern Alabama would be considered a "reach" at that point since he's expected to be a high 2nd round pick at least (Todd McShay has him going to the Panthers with their 40th overall pick in his latest mock draft). Sure the Lions could make a trade for Eagles CB Asante Samuel for a 3rd round pick to help address that secondary, there is only one problem....the limited amount of cap room they have available this season.
In other words the Lions could make an acquisition for him but still would have to pay him...so with that limited cap room the Lions have, the probability of this move happening is pretty much impossible. Sure at the 23rd overall pick the Lions don't necessarily have to address the secondary if the right player isn't available, the Lions could address the offensive line instead, either or. However last season Detroit's offensive line only allowed 36 sacks last season good for 17th in the league, only allowing 8 and 4 more than last season's Super Bowl finalists, the Giants and the Patriots. So with that being said their offensive line wasn't that bad, at least not as bad as the numbers the secondary allowed, just like Jay-Z once said "Men lie, women lie, numbers don't." But despite the recent resigning of offensive tackle Jeff Backus, the thing to consider is he is 34 and isn't getting any younger so the Lions might want to start setting up our future to reboost the offensive line. Then again with that being said the Lions could address that in the 1st or 2nd round depending what player is available in either round whether it's offensive guard Mike Adams out of Ohio State or Jeff Allen offensive guard out of Illinois.
The Lions could start rebuilding the offensive line this season or next season or both, for example in the 2nd round this season and the 1st round next season. With teams within the division making moves, particularly the hated Chicago Bears with the acquisations of WR Brandon Marshall, RB Michael Bush and QB Jason Campbell to backup Jay Cutler (to keep their playoff hopes alive, something Caleb Hanie couldn't do when the impossible happened to Cutler for the Bears to collapse and the Lions to make the playoffs, sad but true), there are no more excuses for GM Martin Mayhew to not make a move(s) to fill up holes that their franchise may (desperately) need. With that being said Chicago now has something they didn't have last season a top notch WR and a backup QB, so nothing is guaranteed that the Lions can win as many games as they won or even win as many as last season unless impact move(s) are made. Now with WR Calvin Johnson extended through 2019 and LB Stephen Tulloch resigned for 5 years, the only player left to resign for a long term deal is DE Cliff Avril. However if Avril is asking for too much money, a possible solution may be to have him agree to a sign and trade that brings the Lions either a solid young CB or pick(s) (depending if a 1st rounder or high 2nd rounder is included in the deal). So in conclusion either the offensive line or secondary could be addressed with their 1st round pick, depending on best player available, yet if a deal is made (Avril example) for a CB or high pick(s) perhaps their needs of CB, OG and LB could all be addressed, surprise the fans Mayhew.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Rajon Rondo to get dealt, the possibilities
Despite the Boston Celtics remaining in the playoff race in the Eastern Conference possibly due to point guard Rajon Rondo's average of 14.2 points, 5 rebounds and 9.6 assists per game. The questions that come up for this situation that come to mind is can Boston get a point guard in return? At least somebody young and promising? Can they make the playoffs without Rondo? or will the team collapse? ala the 2008-09 Detroit Pistons after Billups was traded to Denver for Iverson. Chances are he'll get traded to a contender. I see 4 possibilities:Philadelphia 76ers: Philadelphia has Jrue Holiday or Lou Williams they could give to Boston to replace Rondo. The suggested trade in this situation would be to trade Lou Williams and Andres Nocioni to get Rondo, the 76ers already have a pretty good defensive team, it'd be even better with Rondo.
Los Angeles Lakers: The Los Angeles Lakers need a point guard but don't have a lot of pieces to get one, though their best bet here might be to trade Pau Gasol. Also along with parting with rookie point guard Darius Morris who hasn't seen much playing time this season and add a first round pick that might intrigue Ainge enough to make a deal with their bitter rivals as crazy as that sounds and the Cs will have to add O'Neal and Wilcox to make that deal work.
Miami Heat: Whether you like it or not, Miami definitely has the pieces to make a deal to get Rondo as scary as it sounds. They have a promising young point guard in Norris Cole (averaging 8.7 ppg and 2.5 assists off the bench) who might possibly be already better than their actual starter Mario Chalmers. Therefore Cole could be dealt along with Chalmers and Mike Miller to turn Miami's Big 3 into a Big 4.
Orlando Magic: Do the Magic want Dwight Howard to stay? Then they have to go get him pieces, the perfect opportunity is on the table for them with Rondo on the trading block. Adding Rondo to the Magic could make the players around him better even Dwight himself, it's a move that could definitely make Dwight considering staying. If I was the GM of the Magic I'd try dealing Jameer Nelson along with Earl Clark (a young 6'10 forward the Cs might be interested in since they need another big man) to get Rondo.
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