- 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.
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