The Sports Flow

C.C. Sabathia Headed to Beertown!

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 05:30:00 +0000

I am utterly exhausted after a weekend of the lake, a day of travel and moving, and co-ed softball. But when your favorite team draws first blood in the MLB free-agency period it gets you excited!

For anyone who hasn't heard yet C.C. Sabathia is heading to Milwaukee in return for star prospect Matthew LaPorta (20 HR and 66 RBIs in AA) and 3 other prospects. Two of these prospects have been "confirmed" as P Zach Jackson and P Rob Bryson. The third is to be named later.

Obviously I am completely stoked about this deal! I absolutely love that my favorite "smaller market" wins the battle for C.C. Sabathia. Granted, they're giving up a great young power-hitting outfielder but I think it's a good move. The Brewers have a pretty good group of young outfield talent with Ryan Braun, Corey Hart, and Tony Gwynn Jr so I think this is a risk worth taking. it's also a granted that the Brewers are most likely using C.C as a "rentaplayer" as I really doubt they will be resigning him for the ridiculous money he will want at the end of the season. But fans, players, and management know that. This deal is about this season. The Brewers are in good position right now to make a run at not only the wildcard but also the NL Central.

I think the bottom line here is that the Brewers now have arguably the best 1-2 punch in the NL (possibly all the Majors) with Ben Sheets and C.C. Sabathia. If they can both stay healthy the Brewers will make the playoffs.

I have no doubts about the team's offense and now their starting rotation looks dominant. My only question mark for the team is their bullpen, which still bothers me a bit. However, for now I am saying the Brewers will be going to the playoffs for the first time in 26 years and I couldn't be more excited!

Brett Favre Should Stay Retired

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 05:05:00 +0000

Most readers know that I am about as big of a Favre fan as there is. But upon hearing the news about Favre's apparent "itch" to come back I've started to worry a little.

I feel like that his retirement was something that I and Packers fans alike much feared. The retirement came and went and I think I'm ready to move on. The team is ready to move on, and the NFL is ready to move on. I understand he has the "itch" to play and his family is supporting it, but I think he should stay retired.

I know it must be hard because he is an extreme competitor, and can still play the game at a very high level, but he should stick to his guns and remain retired. I don't believe there is any way that Favre would ever suit up for another team.

I am very interested and nervous to see what will happen with this as training camp approaches. Yes, he's a reckless competitor, but he's also very smart and i think he knows that while he wants to come back, and could come back, he shouldn't come back. I will support him 100% if he does return but I don't want him to. I think it's time to move on to the Aaron Rodgers era. We all know what kind of person and player Favre is. And we all knew that he would eventually get "the itch". It's only natural.

I predict Favre will definitely be in Lambeau Field on September 8 for Green Bay’s first regular season game. However, it will merely be for the retirement of his jersey number.

That's all I've got on this matter for now. Have a great Fourth of July!

2008-2009 College Basketball Pre-Season Rankings

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 20:42:00 +0000

Here's an early look at our pre-season College Basketball Rankings since the NBA Draft is over with.

1. North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels have to be the clear-cut favorites for next year. Basically everybody returns, Player of the year Tyler Hansbrough is back along with speedy PG Ty Lawson and sharpshooter Wayne Ellington. UNC will be deep and talented. Their guards will be one of the best in the nation. Backup PG Bobby Frasor is back from injury and Danny Green decided to pull out of the draft. Don't forget forward Deon Thompson plus a stellar recruiting class lead by Tyler Zeller and Ed Davis.

2. Connecticut Huskies
UConn is also a title favorite. A talented squad returns which includes Hasheem Thabeet, Jeff Adrien, A.J. Price (should be ready by next season with injury), Stanley Robinson, Jerome Dyson, and Craig Austrie, plus a great recruiting class should help with the bench. The Huskies have tremendous talent and now have the experience to make it to a Final Four and possibly a national championship.

3. UCLA Bruins
UCLA may have lost Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook, and Luc Ruchard Mbah a Moute, but they still have one of the best PGs in the nation in Darren Collison and Josh Shipp looked like one of the best players in the early part of last season. Alfred Aboya and James Keefe are both capable post presences and Michael Roll should be healthy. Also, the top recruiting class in the nation should help with the draft losses. Recruit Jrue Holliday should fill in right away at SG.

4. Louisville Cardinals
The Cards should be another Final Four threat this season. They should have some of the best guard depth again lead by Andre McGee, Jerry Smith, and Edgar Sosa. Earl Clark decided to comeback and should be one of the best players in the Big East. David Padgett is gone but in-coming freshmen Samardo Samuels is one of the top center recruits in the nation.

5. Texas Longhorns
Texas should be the Big 12 favorite. They did lose floor general D.J. Augustin but A.J. Abrams is more than capable to take over at PG. Damion James, Connor Atchley, Justin Mason, and Gary Johnson are all back and should help them contend for a national title.

6. Duke Blue Devils
Duke may have struggled in the NCAA Tournament but they still won 28 games last season. They return everyone of significance except for DeMarcus Nelson. Gerald Henderson and Kyle Singler will be a great scoring duo for Duke, plus they have plenty of experience in Greg Paulus, Jon Scheyer, Lance Thomas, and David McClure. They still lack a premier inside presence which could hurt them throughout the season.

7. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
ND returns everybody and I mean everybody. Big East Player of the Year Luke Harangody returns and should be a candidate for National Player of the Year again. Kyle McAlarney is back as well. Expect the Irish to compete for a Big East Title and even a Final Four berth.

8. Memphis Tigers
Derrick Rose, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Joey Dorsey, and Andre Allen are gone, but the Tigers should still win the C-USA. Robert Dozier, Antonio Anderson, Shawn Taggart, Willie Kemp, and Doneal Mack are a very solid core returning. Add one of the top PGs in the country in Tyreke Evans and you have another Final Four contender.

9. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Gonzaga should be a top 10 team again with 4 starters back and a good bench, plus they have a good recruiting class coming in with Demetri Goodson. Jeremy Pargo decided to return. Matt Bouldin, their leading scorer is back along with Austin Daye, Steven Gray, and Micah Downs. Also, Josh Heytvelt will be one of the top big men in the country.

10. Marquette Golden Eagles
Even with Tom Crean gone, Buzz Williams can lead this team not only to the NCAA Tournament but deep into it. The great guard trio in Dominic James, Jerel McNeal, and Wesley Matthews all return for one last hurrah.

Other teams to keep an eye on:
Pittsburgh, Miami, Purdue, Michigan St., Arizona St., Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arizona, Georgetown, Villanova, Wisconsin, Davidson, and Xavier

Wizards Should Be Wary in Re-Signing Gilbert Arenas

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 05:49:00 +0000

The start of the NBA free-agency period is upon us and the Washington Wizards have started things off by throwing out some serious money. The Wizards have reportedly resigned Antawn Jamison with a 4-year $50 million contract. Jamison averaged 20 ppg and 8 rpg last season as the Wizards leading scorer and team co-captain.

This serves a greater purpose however, because Gilbert Arenas has publicly said that he would not resign without longtime friend Jamison to play with next year. With Jamison now in place it has been released that the Wizards are prepared to offer Gilbert Arenas a 6-year $100 million contract!

When I look at this it blows my mind a bit. The Wizards are starting off the free-agent period by dropping $150 million on two players!? I have no problem with what Jamison is getting really because he is extremely reliable player. But $100 million to a Gilbert Arenas with a bum knee? It seems risky if you ask me.

If you're going to drop that kind of money on 2 players you better know you have what it takes to win or atleast contend for a championship. Look at the Boston Celtics. What do they have? They have star/marquee players. So do a lot of teams. They also play great defense. We all know that Gilbert Arenas is a below-average defender.

All i'm saying is that he's not a good defender, and his knee is a bit of a question mark. What makes the Wizards think that signing Arenas to that kind of money is going to make them any better? They're basically bidding with themselves in this situation because they're one of 3 or 4 teams that have enough money to sign Arenas for what he wants right now and they obviously have the most interest. But what makes them think that this Arenas can help them get past the Cavs in the playoffs!?

All I'm saying, I guess, is that seems to be a lot of money for a PG with a bum knee and a mouth that never closes. I think it will be really interesting to see what the Wizards will think of this contract in 3 years. I mean for real, that's 100 million Jr. Bacon Cheeseburgers!

2009 NBA Draft Winners and Losers

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 05:18:00 +0000

WINNERS

Milwaukee Bucks: Traded Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons to New Jersey for Richard Jefferson, drafted Joe Alexander (No. 8), drafted Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (No.37)
I want to start with my favorite NBA team. Milwaukee upgraded its talent level. The Bucks know what they are getting in Jefferson, and Alexander has a chance to be an absolute star in this league. The problem is, they both play the same position, although there's some notion that Alexander can play some 4. They needed help at forward and they definitely got it. Their starting lineup now looks pretty good with Mo Williams at PG, Michael Redd at SG, Andrew Bogut at C, Charlie Villanueva at PF, and Richard Jefferson at SF. They also created some cap space and freed up a bit of a logjam down low. I wasn't crazy about the Mbah a Moute pick when they could have had Bil lWalker or Chris Douglas-Roberts but overall I really liked this trade for the Bucks and I think they got a lot better last night!

Portland Trail Blazers: Traded Jarrett Jack and draft rights of Brandon Rush (No. 13) to Indiana for Ike Diogu and draft rights to Jerryd Bayless (No. 11), traded draft rights of Darrell Arthur (No. 27) and the draft rights to Joey Dorsey (No. 33) to Houston for draft rights to Nicolas Batum (No. 25)
For the second straight year, the Blazers came away the big winners. Last year Portland added its franchise center in Greg Oden, and this year it added a potential franchise lead guard in Bayless. He's going to complement Brandon Roy beautifully in the backcourt. Batum is an upside pick who may not play right away, but has great athleticism and slashing ability. A squad of Bayless, Roy, Martell Webster, Travis Outlaw, Batum, LaMarcus Aldridge, Channing Frye and Oden will compete for a low playoff spot next season and for an NBA championship within three years. The Blazers have had 2 great drafts in a row.

New Jersey Nets: Traded Richard Jefferson to Milwaukee for Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons, drafted Brook Lopez (No. 10), Ryan Anderson (No. 21) and Chris Douglas-Roberts (No. 40)
I think the Nets also got better from their trade with the Bucks. Yi makes sense from a marketing standpoint, even if he never lives up to the hype and Bobby simmons gives them good depth at guard along with Devin Harris. Aside from the tradethe Nets finally added a low post scorer in Lopez to complement defensive-specialists Josh Boone and Sean Williams. Anderson should be a match-up problem who can stretch defenses, and Douglas-Roberts, a first-team All-American, was probably the steal of the draft in the second round.

Memphis Grizzlies: In an eight-player deal, Memphis acquired O.J. Mayo, Marko Jaric, Antoine Walker and Greg Buckner for Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins. Also acquired Darrell Arthur for Donte Greene and a future second-rounder
Memphis is the winner in the deal. I personally think Mayo is the most NBA-ready player in this year's draft and he will be electric when paired with Rudy Gay and Mike Conley Jr. . Memphis also did well adding Darrell Arthur, a lottery-level talent whose representation apparently dropped the ball on notifying teams about his physical condition causing him to slip hard.

Miami Heat: Drafted Michael Beasley (No. 2), traded two future second-round picks to Minnesota for Mario Chalmers (No. 34)
O.J. Mayo came up in discussions, but ultimately the Heat made the right choice. I think you can expect Beasley to step in and help turn this franchise around. If Beasley isn't a good fit, the Heat can always showcase his talents for a year or two and unload him, his value will be substantial as he's sure to tear it up right from the start. Chalmers was considered a possible mid-first rounder who slid. He gives Miami some much-needed depth in the backcourt and may even end up starting alongside Dwyane Wade if he improves his playmaking skills.

LOSERS

Indiana Pacers: Traded Jermaine O'Neal to Toronto for T.J. Ford and draft rights to Roy Hibbert (No. 17); traded Ike Diogu and draft rights of Jerryd Bayless (No. 12) to Portland for draft rights to Brandon Rush (No. 12) and Jarrett Jack
It's unclear exactly what the Pacers are doing. They added a point guard in Ford, but traded away their franchise big man and replaced him with Hibbert who is a skilled offensive player who is too slow and lethargic to excel at the NBA level. It was time to rebuild, but Indiana looks like it will be competing for a high lottery pick next season. Giving up Jerryd Bayless for Brandon Rush and change was retarded.

Charlotte Bobcats: Drafted D.J. Augustin (No. 9) and Alexis Ajinca (No. 20)
The Bobcats have a young point guard in Ray Felton and an obvious need at center. Drafting Augustin, a good college player who's lack of size and athleticism will hurt him in the NBA, was a mistake considering Jerryd Bayless was on the board. They compounded that error by using the 20th pick on Ajinca, a very long, very unpolished prospect who averaged just five points and five rebounds per game last year in France. Oops...

Cleveland Cavaliers: Drafted J.J. Hickson (No. 19)
The Cavs had a number of options at 19 but a 6-8 project power forward was not what the doctor ordered. Since losing Carlos Boozer in free agency, this team has failed miserably to surround LeBron with proper talent, and this pick is more of the same.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Acquired Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins for O.J. Mayo, Marko Jaric, Antoine Walker and Greg Buckner
Basically, it's a Love for Mayo swap with a lot of bad contracts. Minnesota did well unloading some terrible contacts (Jaric and Walker) while taking on Cardinal's terrible contract. Minnesota gave up a potential All-Star guard. Even more puzzling is the decision to move Al Jefferson to center and make Love a top 5 pick. On the positive side, Miller can step in and help this team win games next year and gives them great outside shooting. They also got a lot of cap room in the deal, I just think that Mayo is going to be great and I think he is basically NBA ready right now. Just seems like a big mistake to me.

USA Olympic Team Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 23:10:00 +0000

Since the roster for the USA Olympic Basketball team came out on Monday, I would like to give a few thoughts.

Overall, it looks like a very talented and great squad. We all saw how they blew out the competition at the America's Tournament so things are looking great for the Olympics later this summer.

I think they can and definitely will win the gold. I don't see why not. They should be the favorites and I have a feeling they will get U.S. basketball back to the top.

It's good to see Kobe Bryant on the team. We've needed him the last several years, a star player who can get it done and score some points, plus he is a true leader. He can keep the younger guys together and if they are struggling on the offensive end he is talented enough to get them over the hump.

It's good and all to see a veteran PG on the team. Jason Kidd may be out of his prime but this team needs his experience at the PG position. He is a tremendous passer and they need a veteran like him, especially at the PG position. Chris Paul and Deron Williams will be excellent backups at PG with their youth and overall talent. I don't think any opposing team can match up with the PG depth of the United States'.

I find it kind of puzzling that they took Tayshaun Prince over Tyson Chandler. They are lacking in size and at the international level you need depth and defense down low. I can see if they had plenty of big men but that's not the case. Prince won't be able to match up with strong PF's. They only have Dwight Howard, Chris Bosh, and Carlos Boozer. They need another big man for down low; the international big men play pretty physical and Prince isn't going to solve that problem.

But overall, I like the talent and make up of this team. They should be the favorite and I think they will pull off their first gold medal since 2000.

Shaq Rap on Kobe

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:22:00 +0000

This may be a few days late but I just wanted to post Shaq's rap about Kobe.

Sports Seasons too long?

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 18:57:00 +0000

Thursday night I listened to a little bit of GameNight on ESPN Radio hosted by Freddie Coleman. He started off with an interesting topic on how he thinks professional sports and even college sports may have too exhausting of a schedule, and I would have to agree.

The NBA Finals ended last Tuesday, June the 17th. What ever happened to basketball being a winter sport?

The NBA plays 82 games every season, I would have to agree with Coleman on this, it is was too long. Put the NBA at 70 games and move the first round of the playoffs back to a best of 5 series.

There is no need to end in the middle to late June, I don't think it benefits anybody. This way if you end in early May, it would give more players time off to heal up their injuries or as this year you have the Olympics.

A couple of players such as Amare Stoudemire and Tracy McGrady declined to play on the US Olympic team, if you have the season ending earlier, you would get more commitment to our national team and it would give players more time to rest.

Same goes with college basketball. Why is there a need to play more than 25 games (not including post-season)? 30 is too much (Kansas played 40 this season). If you make 25 the maximum for the regular season it would make more teams hesitate to schedule weaker, lower conference teams.

I think teams would schedule better teams if you lower the amount of games. Take Memphis for example, they already play in a semi-weak conference, if you lower the games they would have to go out and schedule tougher teams even more, to help them out with their seed come March.

This brings up another point. Why does March Madness end in April? Keep it consistent with it's name, lower the amount of regular season games, so March Madness truly ends in March.

Now comes baseball, why does the MLB need to play 162 games? If you lower the games to about 140 that could help ease the pain on some pitchers' arms; especially the younger pitchers who haven't been through or have thrown deep into a season. I think November is too late to end baseball, October is perfect.

I think some people would be against this because they say the leagues would lose revenue. For the most part I think this would create more interest, with bigger more intriguing games. By the time there's 162 games done in the MLB, the playoff teams are already set and stone, if there were 140 games, just imagine the scenario.

Overall, I think sports schedules are too long and I think it could increase fan base. It would benefit players, coaches, and teams more than it would hurt them.

Could this be the Yankee's Year?

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 03:53:00 +0000

The Yankees are one of the hottest teams in the majors right now. Mike Mussina is actually flirting with an All-Star bid or possible start and Johnny Damon is red hot at the plate. The team at one point today even had scored 24 unanswered runs going back to saturday! So really, what's not to like about the Yankees? For me, A LOT.

For starters I've never really liked the Yankees but this isn't about that. This is about me not liking the 2008 yankees. This is about me seeing past their current hot streak and me telling you why they're really not that good and why they may miss the playoffs this year.

Right now the Yankees are 39-33 and riding a 6 game winning streak. They are currently 5.5 games back in the AL East and 3.5 in the wild card. Fairly respectable. However, up until just this week the Yankees looked horrible. They were .500 and carrying a $207,000,000 + payroll! They're also old and aging quickly and not meeting expectations in the least.

I foresee a Mike Mussina fall from grace impending in the 2nd half of the year, assuming he doesn't get injured. Speaking of injuries to the starting staff, Chien-Ming Wang sprained foot running the bases earlier this week and looks to be out until September. That is a big hit for this team.

Speaking of the Wang incident, (if you just laughed you're immature like me) did anybody see Hank Steinbrenner make a total ass of himself by blaming this pivotal injury on the National League. He literally blamed the entire National Leauge for the injury. How retarded and simple-minded. It's not like Wang hasn't had to sprint from the mound to first while catching a throw/flip from a first baseman to make an out in the AL, which many would argue takes more effort/athleticism than simply rounding third. Hank is a joke.

It also doesn't help the Yankees that the AL East is tougher than ever this season. The Tampa Bay Rays are for real this year and the Red Sox are tough as always. And I honestly wouldn't be surprised if the Blue Jays surpassed the Yankees in the second half with their exceptional starting rotation. The divisional competition is getting younger, faster, smarter, and tougher while the Yankees really aren't.

You look at their current roster, they are an old team. Their elite players are all over 30 years, with many being in their late 30s. Their younger players, excluding Joba Chamberlain, haven't panned out. Melky Cabrera is just average. Phil Hughes has been unimpressive. Ian Kennedy has been a train wreck. Darrell Rasner has yet to prove himself and outside of Robinson Cano, their offense lacks youth.

In order to maintain the dynasty, the Yankees have had to decimate their farm system along the way, so their is no fountain of youth to tap into. So, with the Yankees' six games and their best pitcher Chien-Ming Wang out for most of the season now, could THIS be the year, the Yankees finally miss the postseason? We can only hope so.

Celtics show teamwork wins championships

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 22:26:00 +0000

The Boston Celtics proved once again that you need teamwork in order to win a championship.

Paul Pierce was the man, he was the center of NBA glory after denying Phil Jackson's quest for his 10th NBA Title.

Pierce did it all with his scoring, leadership, and stayed patient when the Celts needed it most. He kept his team calm and gave them a will when they were down. Pierce also kept Kobe in check and without number 24, the Lakers were pretty lost. I think you can give Pierce the most credit individually for their championship finals win over the Lakers.

You also have to give Ray Allen credit, he hit some big shots when they needed it, when Pierce was struggling in game 3. Allen was the hero when Pierce wasn't, but that was only one game. Then you have Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol was no match for him. Garnett was just too athletic, more physical, stronger, and just simply better than Gasol. The Lakers sure did miss Bynum. The Big 3 got it done.

Then there are the role players. James Posey came through when the Celtics desperately needed it. He hit some big and devastating threes to keep them in the game and continue some big leads in the first few games of the series. Plus, his great defense helped contain the Lakers' inside presence and kept them out of the paint.

Also, you have to give credit to Boston's defense. They gave the Lakers fits, not only did they shut down the Lakers' 2nd and 3rd scoring options, they shut down their main option, Kobe, when they needed it most. Pierce gave Kobe fits and when he pushed Bryant out of his game the Lakers were lost. Defense does truly win championships but it was also some teamwork that got them the win as well.

The Philadelphia Phillies will win the NLCS

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:41:00 +0000

Here's an early prediction for ya, the Phillies will win the National League and make a World Series appearance in 2008.

The Philadelphia Phillies definitely have the make up of a championship contender and I see them coming out on top of the NL.

The Phils have one of the most potent offenses in the Big's. Their offense can produce runs throughout the lineup and they have one of the best top of the orders in the MLB.

Jimmy Rollins is one of the best leadoff hitters out there and even one of the best hitters in the game. Shane Victorino is a solid two hitter, he can move Rollins and runners over whenever and also can hit for power, that combo is rare with most two spot hitters. Then there's Chase Utley. Utley is leading the MLB in HR and is third in RBI. Ryan Howard is one of the best young power hitters in the league, he is definitely capable of leading the Phillies to the top. Plus, you add a good fifth hitter in Pat Burrell and it is just plain scary for any opposing pitcher. They are solid all throughout the lineup.

The bullpen is what sets Philadelphia apart. They have the lowest ERA of any bullpen in the MLB and they know how to close out games. Brad Lidge is just as good as any closer with his 0.93 ERA, 18 saves, and 37 K. Chad Durbin (1.63 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) and J.C. Romero (1.38 ERA, 1.38 WHIP) have also been solid out of the pen. Their pitching is what can get them far and as far as the rotation goes, Cole Hamels is a very capable ace, being one of the top hurlers in the NL.

The Phils have shown they can win any type of game. They can beat you with their bats, their batting order is one of the best in the leagues, especially the top. Their defense is solid as well, they make the plays when needed and they have some of the best pitching out there. The bullpen is stellar and the starting rotation is just good enough to get them to the big game.

I think the Phillies should be the favorite right now, they are the most balanced team out there. The Cubs rotation has been pretty shaky and they need one more solid starter if they want to make the World Series. Also, it doesn't help that Alfonso Soriano is out again. And I think the D-Backs are just too young, they make some mental mistakes at times and they are a year or two away from playing in the WS. The Phillies are on a mission and watch out come October.

NBA Finals game 5 Reaction

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 04:53:00 +0000

I had coed softball sunday night so I missed a lot of the first half of the game but i caught the entire second half and would like to offer some thoughts.

-The Lakers really dodged a bullet here Sunday night. The series easily could have been over if a foul had been called on the Kobe breakaway dunk and had KG made some freethrows late.

-If the Lakers can't hold a lead at home at all I foresee this series not lasting long in Boston

-The Lakers are incredibly susceptible to the pick and roll and it really is a good thing that they didn't wind up playing the Hornets in the Western Conference Finals otherwise they might not even be here right now.

-It kind of looked like that the Lakers were the more physical team tonight for the first time in the series. I'm thinking this has to do with the Kendrick Perkins injury.

-Paul Pierce just about sealed the championship for the Celtics tonight by himself. With much help at all this series would be over already.

-Kobe needs to be more commanding down the stretch. He needs to earn all those Jordan comparisons and show everyone why he's MVP by wanting the ball in his hands down the stretch and knocking down shots.

-Lamar Odom chipping in 20 and 11 was absolutely HUGE for the Lakers tonight.

-I'm going to stand by my Celtics in 7 prediction although don't be surprised if this one ends in Boston in game 6

So what'd you think of Sunday night's game? Predictions for game 6?

MLB Wants Instant Replay by August

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 05:57:00 +0000

I posted a Buy or Sell piece last summer on instant replay in baseball. HERE IT IS. My stance here hasn't really changed much so I'm using my old post to do most of the explaining so definitely check it out.

Baseball wants to implement the new instant replay system for boundary calls by August so that the system will be fine tuned in time for the playoffs and World Series.

To make this happen MLB and the umpires union will first need to reach an agreement before instant replay can be used and the two sides have begun discussions on the issue. Bud Selig, the comissioner of the league, will need to sign off on the deal in order for it to be implemented, and he has been a staunch opposer to instant replay in the past. After seeing many of the blown calls throughout the season (especially of late) it seems that Selig is softening his position on the use of instant replay in MLB.

Many people in baseball find themselves divided on the use of instant replay. Some people think that instant replay should be implemented as soon as possible. Still, others who consider themselves baseball purists or “old school” think that human error is very much an intended part of the game. Also, many believe that instant replay will only slow the pace of an already slowly paced game. But isn't getting it right the most important thing?

I'm not going to go into too much detail in regards of my personal feelings or thoughts with instant replay because you can read my old post. But instant replay has had so much success in other leagues that it is about time that MLB makes this happen.

The umpires do not want replay used for any other situation then boundary calls, which I am a little iffy on. If you are going to use instant replay why not make sure that you’re getting all the calls right, such as stolen bases and plays at the plate (think Matt Holliday sliding home in the NLCS Game 7 last season). I do however, agree with the notion that instant replay should not be used to determine strikes or balls as that would severely hamper the pace of the game.

If all goes well it looks like this is going to happen before the end of the season. So what do you think? Still for it? Against it? Hit the comment box!

Thoughts and Headlines

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:06:00 +0000

Here's some brief thoughts and headlines on different sports.

NBA Finals:
The Lakers are in trouble. While Kobe said there is nothing to worry about, he definitely should be worrying. Kobe has struggled shooting in this series and the Celtics defense has given the Lakers fits. Boston has not only shut down LA's 2nd and 3rd scoring option, but their number one as well. The Lakes have to win both games at home, because I don't see them winning any in Boston.

MLB:
I would like to say congrats to Ken Griffey Jr. for hitting his 600th HR last night. Griffey is the greatest HR hitter of this era and although I am a Barry Bonds fan, I have to pay Griffey his dues. Griffey did it the right way, he went through the agonizing injuries. He felt the pain and bled his own blood without taking any illegal substances to endure any of it. If it weren't for his injuries he would easily have 700 HR right now.

College Baseball:
I just wanted to say I love watching College Baseball, especially when it's time for the Super Regionals and the World Series. Watching them hit with an aluminum bat is quite refreshing; although I love watching pitchers duals and great defensive play, I love watching slugfests and hard hit balls, it makes for an interesting and fun game.

Soccer
The US Soccer team tied Argentina on Sunday, the number one ranked team in the world currently. It was great to see a good defensive effort but it was great to see the aggressive play in the midfield, which took a lot of pressure off of the defense; which is something they've been lacking for several years.

Also, it's been interesting to watch the Euro Cup that is currently taking place. I am not a big fan of soccer but when it comes to World Cup Soccer and qualifiers I love to watch. I would love to see a Portugal-Germany final, but I wouldn't mind watching Spain or France either.

TSF endorses John McCain

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:02:00 +0000

With the 2008 presidential election being one of the biggest ever, we would like to do a political post. The Sports Flow would like to announce it's presidential endorsement of Republican candidate John McCain.

We hope everyone who is eligible to vote will get out and vote this November. This is one of our most pivotal elections ever and we ask for everyone to look over the candidates and vote for the best candidate; who ever they agree with can lead this country in the right direction, whether it's McCain, Barack Obama, Bob Barr, or Ralph Nader.

Vote in '08.

NBA Finals Game 1 React

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 05:06:00 +0000

I'm sure most of you sports fans out there were watching the game tonight. I know I was. In case you missed it the Celtics beat the Lakers 98-88. Here are a few brief thoughts I had after game 1.

-Kobe was just not on tonight and facing the top Defense in the NBA didn't help either. Kobe managed to put up 24 points. However, he only shot 9-26 which is real bad.

-I'll admit I definitely thought the worst when Pierce went down like that. Then I was incredibly confused when he came out of the tunnel 4 minutes later ready to play. The whole things seems a little weird (I smell a fresh NBA Conspiracy Theory Post?)

-The big 3 looked good all putting up 20+. I'm very interested to see how Pierce's knee is feeling come game 2 though.

-The Perkins injury is going to be interesting to me because if he can't play anymore I think Pau Gasol could be a real problem for the Celtics to handle. Perkins didn't match up well against Gasol as it is and with him out I think Gasol could have a chance to really dominate. Unless if P.J. Brown is going to shut him down (which I highly doubt).

-KG's slam home on that rebound was straight ballin'.

-If the Lakers are going to win this series it needs to be in 5 or 6. I do not see the Lakers being able to come into the Garden and win a game 7.

-Game 1 was a little blah but I'm still convinced that this might be the best NBA finals in the last 10 years and I'm excited for Game 2 already!

Who's Hot, Who's Not

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 19:58:00 +0000

TSF hasn't done it's 'Who's Hot, Who's Not' post for quite sometime so I thought this would be a great time to do so...

Who's Hot

Chase Utley
The Phillies 2nd basemen is 15 for 34 his last 9 games with 7 HR, 20 RBI, and 10 R. He become only the 4th player ever to have two five-game home run streaks in one season.

Jay Bruce
Bruce is 18 for 29 in his first 8 games as a major leaguer with 3 HR, 7 RBI, and 12 runs scored. Said Bruce to the AP, "It's been a lot of fun."

Chicago Cubs
Could this be the year? The Cubs have currently won 8 straight games through June 3rd, winning their first road series since the beginning of the season.

Road to Omaha
With super regionals starting this week, college baseball is heating up. The top search of the month on ESPN was College Baseball. We will have a new champion as Oregon St. is out. All baseball fans love watching games with aluminum bats, the fun has just begun.

Who's Not

Alex Rios
Currently his 27-for-115 (.234 BA) is on a nosedive. Rios has dropped 52 points off his batting average since May 1. His sluggish power (9 HR, 69 RBI) and strikeout rate ('07 K%: 16.0, '08: 23.5) have raised some flags about his patience at the plate.

Paul Konerko
His current stat line is: .206 BA, 5 HR, 23 RBI, 18 R, 1 SB, and a 33/27 K:BB ratio. Can you say slump?

Seattle Mariners
The M's are now 21-38 and are 14.5 games behind the Angels and 8.5 behind the mediocre Rangers. Pitching has been a huge problem for them. Seattle starters are now 15-28 with an ERA of 5.23.

Miami, FLA- Kimbo Slice primetime fight
Yawn. Miami was home to the debut of mixed martial arts fight and Kimbo Slice on primetime television, which aired on CBS last Saturday evening. The night was full of horrible referring and boring fights. Slice didn't live up to the hype as he was embarrassed and knocked out by James Thompson.

2008 NBA Finals Preview

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 05:35:00 +0000

On Thursday night the Lakers and Celtics will face off in a historical rematch of the NBA's two most storied franchises in the 2008 NBA finals.

Both teams entered the playoffs as the number one seed in their conference. The Lakers came out of the Western Conference by leaning on Kobe Bryant’s MVP skills and Paul Gasol down low. The Celtics are led by the trio of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.

Here comes some position breakdowns and analysis.

Homecourt Advantage
Both teams are good at home but I can't go against the Garden. Their rowdy fans will have the team fired up and ready to win.

Advantage: Celtics

Point Guard

Rajon Rondo vs. Derek Fisher
Obviously Derek Fisher has the clear advantage when it comes to experience, he has won 3 NBA Championships and played in 148 career playoff games and Rajon Rondo has won 0 championships and played in only 20 career playoff games. This is an interesting match up because neither player is one of the best players on their respective teams but both players can be very important to their team’s success. Both Rondo and Fisher are very good defensive players and both have already faced fantastic point guards in their run to the finals. Fisher has faced Allen Iverson, Deron Williams, and Tony Parker, three perennial all-stars, while Rajon Rondo has faced Mike Bibby, Delonte West, and Chauncey Billups. I believe that playoff experience is an over hyped statistic in this match up because although Rondo is very young and is in his first career playoff year he has played exceptionally well and has played much better than Fisher has statistically, out performing Fisher in every category but steals and turnovers, and has been more involved in the teams offense than Fisher.

Advantage: Rajon Rondo

Shooting Guard
Ray Allen vs. Kobe Bryant

Ray Allen is a great player. He experienced some struggles throughout the playoffs but has started to find his shot as of late. A shot that is the quickest, smoothest, and pretties in the league. But Kobe is the best player in the world and has been showing it as of late. This one isn't really that close.

Advantage: Kobe Bryant

Small Forward

Paul Pierce vs. Vladimir Radmanovic

I believe that this is the biggest mismatch of them all. Paul Pierce has routinely owned his opponent throughout these entire playoffs and this series and this matchup should be no different. Radmanovic is just too slow and simply not good enough to guard a player that is as good and hot as Paul Pierce is. Radmanovic only averaged 8.3 points per game in the series vs. the San Antonio Spurs even though he played over 24 minutes per outing. Radmanovic is not what you would call a shut down defender either, he is very slow on his feet and even though he has a height advantage most of the time he is not a very good shot blocker or rebounder.
Advantage: Paul Pierce

Power Forward

Kevin Garnett vs. Lamar Odom

Although Lamar Odom is playing very well in the post season I do not believe he is ready to deal with a player of Garnett’s ability. Garnett is the premiere power forward in the game today and might be in the top 3 all-time at the position. Garnett is not just a dead-eye shooter from 17 feet, an unstoppable turn around jumpshooter, or a fantastic leader, he is also the reigning Defensive Player of the Year in the NBA and has played his best defensive basketball of his postseason career. Garnett can control the entire paint for minutes at a time and that is a huge luxury. Lamar Odom is used to having a large height advantage or a big advantage in the quickness department but neither will be there in this matchup.

Advantage: Kevin Garnett

Center
Kendrick Perkins vs. Paul Gasol

Kendrick Perkins has been playing great in the postseason up to this point but now he is dealing with a different animal than in his previous playoff matchups. Pau Gasol did not play great on the offensive end against the San Antonio Spurs but he sure did rebound great. Gasol is one of the best passing bigmen in the game and he plays good defense. Perkins is playing great but he still doesn't stack up.

Advantage: Paul Gasol

Overall I think this is going to be an amazing NBA Finals. My Prediction is Celtics in 7. I just think that KG, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen will not be denied after coming this far. Pierce will have a HUGE series, KG plays great D, and James Posey will be big off the bench as well.

What do you think? How would you break down the positional battles? Predictions?

Spelling Bee: We have Spell Check nowadays

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:45:00 +0000

With the Scripps National Spelling Bee underway I find it fitting to do a post on this.

First off I want to clarify this, I love watching the spelling bee, it is very interesting and I am always amazed at how smart these kids are.

But really now, I mean this is really pathetic. We have these kids studying and learning to spell these insane words all day.

Many of these kids spend all day couped up inside their homes studying to be the best and the smartest, I mean come on now. We even have spell check now (and boy I am glad we do)! So why can't they use it?

Well we obviously need to have some sense of how to spell words, but if I can make it by then these kids can too. There is no need for these kids to spend their whole lives studying these words the majority of America can't even pronounce.

Being a kid is living life to the fullest, being able to play with your friends, go and enjoy the outdoors, playing catch with your dad, fun stuff like that.

How are these kids supposed to be social at all when they get older? I mean, not to be too rough but these kids need lives. How will they be able to go out into the job world and handle anything? Get a date? Go to a party in college? Or anything? These kids will not be able to deal with real life and it is important for people to have a social life, which is sad really, we need to enjoy life every once and awhile.

The first to blame is the parents, they have their kids inside studying, learning these outrageous words, and sadly, mainly because the parents (not all of them but I would say a good majority of them) are trying to fulfill their past lives with their kids. And it's sad.

On a side note, I would like to thank spell check for this post, because without you this post wouldn't be possible...

Can Chipper Jones hit .400 this year?

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:41:00 +0000

Well we've been so busy with summer, the NBA Conference Finals, and the Stanley Cup Finals that we haven't been going a lot of MLB posting. So here's something for you!

So when do we start the Chipper .400 Watch? The Sports Flow is starting now and so should you! Only three times in the past 50 years has any hitter had as high a batting average as Chipper has now (.418), Rod Carew (1983), Rico Carty (1974) and Hank Aaron (1959). So why not start the speculation?

I realize it's been 67 years and counting since Ted Williams hit .400. And it's 28 years since George Brett even became the last man to carry a .400 average into September. But why not Chipper? He's a switch-hitter who's batting .409 left-handed and .431 right-handed. He hit .422 in April. He's stayed hot in May hitting .429. And over the past year, he has had only one month when he's hit lower than .364. This leads me to believe this is no fluke.

In fact, if you look back over that year, Chipper batted .376 (with a .459 OBP and .622 SLG) for a full season. How close is that to hitting .400? Well, if he'd just gotten one extra hit every two weeks, he'd be a .400 hitter for the equivalent of one complete season. So obviously this isn't just coming out of no where.

I'm not going to lie. Sure, I'm a little surprised by Chipper putting up softball-type numbers thus far this year. However, I think it's time we start to watch carefully. Lance Berkman has also been having a great year and does pose some .400 threat. However, I think Chipper has the best chance to do it. As I've stated the stats show that Chipper is locked in from both sides of the plate right now, and has been for a while. This is no fluke. Plus, Berkman has never hit over .318 in a season.

Chipper is for real and I think it's going to be really fun to watch him make a run at .400 this year. My only concern would be his durability being a bit older now. But as for now I'm along for the ride!

NBA Playoff Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 28 May 2008 06:29:00 +0000

Here's some playoff thoughts thus far from an ordinary guy:

-The Spurs-Lakers series is closer than it indicates. In game 1 if the Spurs hit a few more buckets and make one or two more defensive stops, they steal game one.

Also, in game 4 the Spurs could have won this one too. The Spurs just couldn't get over the hump. Poor shot selection when they had a chance to tie or go ahead. Plus, Brent Barry easily got fouled by Derek Fisher at the end.

I am an advocate for refs not deciding games, mainly at the end, but man this was a blatant foul. The Spurs could easily be the ones up 3-1, but you have to give Kobe his dues, he is finally winning without Shaq (No pun intended).

-The Celtics will win the NBA Finals. Sorry Detroit fans, but there is no way you will win any more games in Boston. The Big 3 are just unstoppable there and the fans are right there behind the Celts. Boston just seems to be on their game when they're at home. Now that they have shown they can at least steal a game on the road I think they can top the Lakers (or Spurs for that matter).

-I am finally enjoying the NBA Playoffs for the first time in probably 6 years. Although I am a Spurs fan and it is great to see them win it all, but in all seriousness I have not enjoyed watching the NBA at all since they left NBC and stopped playing defense. But I have to give the players, top teams, and even David Stern some credit for the enjoyable 2008 season and the playoffs. The NBA hasn't had this quality of play in a longtime.

2008 NBA Mock Draft

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Mon, 26 May 2008 21:29:00 +0000

1. Chicago Bulls - Derrick Rose (PG - Memphis)

Really I think that Beasley is the best fit for the Bulls since then need a low-post scorer. However, Rose is simply the best player in the draft and the Bulls will take the best available. Plus he's a Chicago-native so he'll draw in a crowd.

2. Miami Heat - Michael Beasley (PF - Kansas State)
Wow, what a catch at #2! Who won't pack the house to see the high-flying trio of Marion, Beasley, and Wade! Beasley will no doubt bring the Heat back to the post-season in the East. However, don’t sleep on the possibility of Riles dealing the pick down for a couple of quality players.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves - O.J. Mayo (PG - USC)
Although some skeptics have him dropping as of late, we are still high on O.J. This cat has amazing size and athletic abilities for a point guard. He’s NBA ready. Although the Twolves currently have quite a few PGs he is more of a scoring PG and would suit big Al Jefferson's skill set perfectly!

4. Seatle Supersonics - Jerryd Bayless (PG/SG - Arizona)

This year’s draft will have more PG’s in the top ten than in the past. Although most Bayless skeptics aren’t quite sure if he’s really a PG or a SG because ge’s a bit of a tweener size wise. The Sports Flow likes his game and think he can finally rid the Sonics of the Earl Watson/Luke Ridnour debate that is boring fans to death. Look for him to have a good rookie season too (due to the fact that he'll be playing with Durant!)

5. Memphis Grizzlies - Brook Lopez (C - Stanford)

After arguably one of the most lopsided trades in NBA history for Pau Gasol this season, the Grizz have a hole in their front line that Kwame Brown could never hope to fill. Maybe the selection of Lopez to log time at the 5 spot will start to heal the pain?

6. New York Knicks - Danilo Gallinari (PG - ITALY)

I don't know a whole lot about this kid. However I have heard that he has great size (6 foot 10) and he has good outside game and can create his own shots. Although taking international players is risky (think Darko) I think he fits D'Antoni's system well and his international experience makes him more game-ready and carries some experience

7. LA Clippers - DJ Augustin (PG - Texas)
I’ve been hearing lots of rumors about Elton Brand being a bit unhappy with the personnel moves of the Clipper execs. This makes me think that Kevin Love would be the perfect pick. But until a time that Brand is moved, he’s their franchise man and more than enough skill at the PF spot. DJ might be a bit undersized but he’s got tons of upside. If Brand stays, they take Augustin.

8. Milwaukee Bucks - Eric Gordon (PG - Indiana)

With Bogut, Yi, and Villeneuva already young prospects my Bucks don't need to take another PF in Kevin Love. They need to take a good young PG who can score the ball. This would be Gordon. And as Complete Sports mentioned, they then could look to dump Michael Redd's monstrous contract to rebuild the team.

9. Charlotte Bobcats - Kevin Love - (PF - UCLA)

If Tyler Hansbrough had left for the draft I assume that MJ would be lobbying for him. However, he's not and if Loves slips to the 9 spot, which I think he will, the 'Cats will jump at him!

10. NJ Nets - DeAndre Jordan - (C - Texas A&M)

The Nets need a Center. There is no question that the 5 spot is their biggest weakness. DeAndre Jordan is a 7-footer with a huge wingspan and good timing. He’s generally knocked for being a bit soft. Might be a risky pick.

11. Indiana Pacers - Anthony Randolph - (PF - LSU)

Randolph may be skinny but a bit more size will come with age. He has pretty good handle and a soft touch, so you could always give him some time at the 3 spot. Picture this kid running with Granger, Dunleavy, and Tinsley. Could but fun to watch. Could develop into a poor man’s Chris Bosh

12. Sacramento Kings - Russell Westbrook (PG/SG - UCLA)

The Kings need a point guard bad. And although some would argue that Russell Westbrook isn’t a true point guard, who says the Kings system requires one? Coupling Westbrook with Kevin Martin in the backcourt creates a ton of match up problems for the opposition. With Artest at SF it makes it even more difficult so this makes sense to me.

13. Portland Trailblazers - Donte Green (SF - Syracuse)
Wow, so this just seems unfair that the Blazers get another high pick! In 3-4 years this team will be scary good! Think of a lineup of Oden, Aldridge, Green, Webster, and Roy!

14. Golden State Warriors - JaVale McGee ( C - Nevada)

Golden State is a finely tuned offensive machine. McGee could contribute on the glass, and has excellent timing on his shot blocking ability. Although skeptics knock his shot-selection, I don't think it will bother the Warriors!

When Hard-Nosed meets Stupid

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Thu, 22 May 2008 23:16:00 +0000

When the Dolphins hired Bill Parcells to run the show everybody knew what they were getting. Hard-nosed, big, and tough is what Parcells brings to the table. But where do you draw the line between old fashioned and Hard-nosed, and just downright stupid.

I think the line has been crossed. Tony Sparano is the man the Bill Parcells made head coach to help instill his style of play into his team. Tony Sparano is also the man who just recently called out the Dolphins' best player, Jason Taylor.

Sparano recently escalated the feud going on between the team and Jason Taylor by saying,

“I know that Jason is not going to be at any (offseason workouts), know that Jason is not going to be at any minicamps, and I know that, right now, Jason is not going to be at training camp. So that’s what we know. Jason is a player under contract with the Miami Dolphins. He knows that. Both parties are well aware of the information. That is all I am going to say about it. I am going to talk about our players now. I am not going to talk about another thing about Jason. I am not going to talk about another thing. What I just told you is what I know. It’s what we know, and that being said, we need to discuss the current players on our team right now that have been busting their butt for nine weeks here.” - Tony Sparano

Now, I don't agree with the fact that it is a bit ridiculous that Jason Taylor missed some offseason workouts to appear on Dancing with the Stars. However, for a coach to call a team's best player like that and shun him from the team is just downright stupid.

This is stupid to do whether or not the dolphins want to trade Jason Taylor, or have him play for them. First, if they somehow want Taylor around (which he's basically saying they don't), what Sparano said only alienates the Dolphins from their best player. Second, if the Dolphins want to trade Taylor, they have only decreased his value by making it appear they don’t want him.

I mean, sure, Sparano is letting everyone know who is in charge. That's really macho of him, but very shortsighted. Taking on Taylor really is retarded. Sure, Taylor has been poking and prodding with management lately. He recently finished second in “Dancing With The Stars” on Tuesday and then took a redeye to New York to appear on “Live with Regis and Kelly” on Wednesday morning instead of returning to offseason workouts with the Dolphins.

As much as some people may think that’s wrong, it is Taylor’s right to do that. With the exception of an offseason minicamp, offseason workouts are voluntary. In addition, Taylor has earned this right. This is a guy who never has been out of shape in his career. He has played hard and was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2006. I guarantee you right now that Taylor could would until minicamp to step on a field and still be the best player on the entire Miami Dolphins team.

Off the field, Taylor has been everything that Huizenga has asked of players. His Jason Taylor Foundation runs a program that helps teach kids to read and last season, Taylor was named the NFL Man of the Year for his charity work. Even through all of this turmoil and being called out by his new head coach, Taylor has been a professional throughout. You don't see him making a scene and trashing the franchise to get out. Taylor has more than held up his end of the bargain as a member of the Dolphins and coach Sparano and the organization just made a big mistake.

Western Conference Finals Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Stefan Ming) — Wed, 21 May 2008 22:24:00 +0000

Once again the Spurs and Lakers meet in the playoffs. Although they haven't played since 2004, there's been some great match ups between the two and the winner usually ends up winning the NBA Finals.

Both teams have combined to win seven of the last nine championships, the Spurs won in 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007 and the Lakers won from 2000-02. They lost in the NBA Finals in 20o4 to Detroit.

This one should be a dandy once again. The Lakers are a different team then the past few years. Kobe Bryant is his normal self and he finally has teammates that can back him up and trust. This Laker team has been the most impressive team thus far in the playoffs. They've been so consistent and they're getting balanced scoring night in and night out.

As for the Spurs, they've been a little inconsistent. The first two games against the Hornets they looked lost. But in game 7 they looked like their old championship selves.

This should be a great series, which I am expecting to go seven games.

Analysis

Frontcourt
The Lakers are deep and talented with Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Vladimir Radmanovic, Luke Walton and Ronny Turiaf. Pau Gasol can hold his own down low against Tim Duncan, plus he can score and help Kobe out on offense if he's off his game. Odom must be consistent offensively if the Lakers want to win this series. The Spurs forwards play great defense. Tim Duncan can take over a game anytime and Kurt Thomas has done the little things whether it's defense or rebounding. But the Spurs are not as deep here as the Lakers.

Backcourt
The Lakers are solid in the backcourt with MVP Kobe Bryant, Derek Fisher, and Jordan Farmer. They're fast and can score. The Spurs are loaded in the backcourt, Manu Ginobli doesn't even start for them. Tony Parker is so clutch when it counts most, especially in the playoffs, Michael Finley provides depth and some scoring, and Bruce Bowen is the defensive stopper and can occasionally knock down the three ball. With the Spurs talent and depth here, I will give them the advantage in this department.

Coaching
This is pretty much a toss-up. Phil Jackson and Gregg Popovich know what it takes to win, especially championships. Coaching in this series is going to come down to in-game adjustments. You know both coaches will have specific plans on how to stop each other's best players in Kobe and Duncan, but it's going to come down to adjustments, which I think Popovich is a mastermind when it comes to this. I'll give the Spurs a slight advantage here.

Prediction:
This should be a great series. NBA fans are in for a great Western Conference Finals. I expect each and every game to be a hard-fought, defensive, down to the wire battle. I really like the Lakers individual talent and offensive game, but the Spurs have all the intangibles. Their defense has been very good thus far and they seem to always play as a team. Plus, you have to give credit to Gregg Popovich, he always has them ready and prepared. I'll take the Spurs in seven.

2008 NHL Stanley Cup Finals Preview and Prediction

noreply@blogger.com (grittysquirrels) — Tue, 20 May 2008 06:01:00 +0000

The Stanley Cup Finals are set as the Detroit Red Wings get set to open the Finals at home against the Eastern Conference champion Pittsburgh Penguins. This looks to be one of the most entertaining Finals in recent memory as two of the most talented teams in the NHL go head to head for hockey's ultimate prize.

Detroit vs. Pittsburgh

Breakdown: This should be one heck of a series to watch. Both teams can really skate. Both teams can shut you down on defense. Both teams have goalies who are on top of their game right now. At the end of the day I give the slight edge to the Pens. I think they are a little bit deeper, a little bit more talented, a little bit younger, a little bit hungrier, a little bit better on defense, and a little bit better in goal. All in all that adds up to a Stanley Cup for Pittsburgh in my book. The Penguins are clicking on all cylinders and have been more impressive against better competition this post-season than Detroit. The Pens are battle tested and ready to finish the job. That, however, is not to say it is going to be easy for Pittsburgh .This should be the toughest series yet for the Penguins and Detroit could very easily hoist the cup when all is said and done as well.

This is a great Stanley cup for hockey fans in the U.S. Nobody in the states cares to watch the Montreal Canadiens or the Toronto Maple Leafs, or any other canadian teams in the finals really. I think the NHL and its fans could not have asked for a more entertaining matchup and I think ratings in the states will show it. When you combine "Hockeytown, USA" with Crosby and Mahlkin you've got yourself some entertaining hockey and I think the states can really get into this series a lot more than, say, last year's Ottawa vs. Anaheim final.

Player to Watch: Marian Hossa (PIT) - Make no mistake, Hossa has had a tremendous post-season thus far, and this is why the Pens went out and got him at the trade deadline. Everyone always wants to talk about Crosby and Mahlkin, but I think you can expect Hossa to continue to perform and both ends of the rink and finish off some of Sidney Crosby's passes. This is what needs to happen if the Penguins are going to complete their amazing post-season with a victory over the Red Wings. As Crosby and Mahlkin draw doubles and get banged around Hossa could be that one extra weapon that gives Pittsburgh the edge in the Finals.

Prediction: Like I said I like the Penguins to win this one and i foresee it happening in 6 games. This will be a hard-fought and physical series, however, so don't be surprised if this one stretches out to 7.