OFFICIAL 2010-2011 NBA PLAYOFFS THREAD : VOL. MOST. ANTICIPATED. PLAYOFFS. EVER?

Juice, Rudy, Zbo, Young Conley, Gasol2, will go at least with 45 wins this year. They won 40 games last year after getting off to a 1-7 start so at THE VERY LEAST, I see them at 45-50 wins. Mike Conley is starting to resemble a player, Zach Randolph is one of the more efficient post basketball players in recent memory, Marc is solid as ever underneath, Rudy gay fresh off of a max deal will be a load as he is on any given night, and O.J. Mayo is capable of doing some spectacular things this year. He should move into the 20ppg range, but with two other 20ppg scorers on the team, he might top out at 19 which is great.

They have tony allen now, which allows O.J. to play the one and the two in the fourth. O.J. can handle the ball and make plays off of their 1/5 or 1/4 screen roles, and Tony can defend the tougher 2's and some 3's which he has shown he can do. This, along with Rudy Gay hopefully development into a prominent feature in late game situations as well will catapult the grizzlies to unknown territories among NBA circles.

They had some very impressive wins last year, including the cavs, lakers, celtics, nuggets, suns (WFC finalist), and a few others so I definately think they are poised for a big year.

Juice and the Memphis Grizzlies ftw. They will be getting an invite to the playoff party this year.
 
Juice, Rudy, Zbo, Young Conley, Gasol2, will go at least with 45 wins this year. They won 40 games last year after getting off to a 1-7 start so at THE VERY LEAST, I see them at 45-50 wins. Mike Conley is starting to resemble a player, Zach Randolph is one of the more efficient post basketball players in recent memory, Marc is solid as ever underneath, Rudy gay fresh off of a max deal will be a load as he is on any given night, and O.J. Mayo is capable of doing some spectacular things this year. He should move into the 20ppg range, but with two other 20ppg scorers on the team, he might top out at 19 which is great.

They have tony allen now, which allows O.J. to play the one and the two in the fourth. O.J. can handle the ball and make plays off of their 1/5 or 1/4 screen roles, and Tony can defend the tougher 2's and some 3's which he has shown he can do. This, along with Rudy Gay hopefully development into a prominent feature in late game situations as well will catapult the grizzlies to unknown territories among NBA circles.

They had some very impressive wins last year, including the cavs, lakers, celtics, nuggets, suns (WFC finalist), and a few others so I definately think they are poised for a big year.

Juice and the Memphis Grizzlies ftw. They will be getting an invite to the playoff party this year.
 
Season starting soon
pimp.gif
Can't wait.
 
really looking forward to this season prolly attend more games this year than I have in my life

Lakers for the 3peat, Kobe MVP, Blake Griffin ROY
 
really looking forward to this season prolly attend more games this year than I have in my life

Lakers for the 3peat, Kobe MVP, Blake Griffin ROY
 
Great season ahead of us gentlemen!! Still interested to see what may become of the Melo situation. After all it's not exactly all said and done that he'll stay in Denver for all 82.
 
Great season ahead of us gentlemen!! Still interested to see what may become of the Melo situation. After all it's not exactly all said and done that he'll stay in Denver for all 82.
 
It me, or a whole bunch of new folk come out the woodwork all of a sudden? 
ohwell.gif
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Season starts next Tuesday?  Be back to the same 10-12 guys thru here everyday by Friday I'm guessing. 
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I'd love to see Mil find a way to get out from underneath Redd's deal, if they could get an actual player worth having for him (even if it's a 6th-7th man type role guy) and save money, that's the start of a real feisty group.  Also wondering if Ilasova (sp) develops further as well, I liked him alot last year. 

That kid in Utah, Ronnie Price, every time I see him play, I wonder why no one has chased after him before.  All that kid does is hustle, and make plays in spurts.  I don't want him as a starter or anything, but he's one of those Utah types that is just a pain in the @#$ whenever you play him. 
 
It me, or a whole bunch of new folk come out the woodwork all of a sudden? 
ohwell.gif
laugh.gif



Season starts next Tuesday?  Be back to the same 10-12 guys thru here everyday by Friday I'm guessing. 
laugh.gif



I'd love to see Mil find a way to get out from underneath Redd's deal, if they could get an actual player worth having for him (even if it's a 6th-7th man type role guy) and save money, that's the start of a real feisty group.  Also wondering if Ilasova (sp) develops further as well, I liked him alot last year. 

That kid in Utah, Ronnie Price, every time I see him play, I wonder why no one has chased after him before.  All that kid does is hustle, and make plays in spurts.  I don't want him as a starter or anything, but he's one of those Utah types that is just a pain in the @#$ whenever you play him. 
 
Originally Posted by rck2sactown

Originally Posted by Scott Frost

So removing almost $19 million from your books after the season isnt a means of cutting costs?
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laugh.gif
thinking expiring contracts just disappear. 
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ex·pire
v. ex·pired, ex·pir·ing, ex·pires

v.intr.
1. To come to an end; terminate
  
 
Originally Posted by rck2sactown

Originally Posted by Scott Frost

So removing almost $19 million from your books after the season isnt a means of cutting costs?
Click to expand...

laugh.gif
thinking expiring contracts just disappear. 
Click to expand...

ex·pire
v. ex·pired, ex·pir·ing, ex·pires

v.intr.
1. To come to an end; terminate
  
 
http://[h3]
[h3]Varejao drawing interest[/h3]
11:08AM ET

[h5]Anderson Varejao | Cavaliers [/h5]


According to Ken Berger of CBS Sports, "sources say numerous teams have inquired about [Anderson] Varejao, but the Cavs won't even entertain such talks unless they're getting a superstar in return."

In particular, Berger reports he's on Denver's list of veteran players they'd like in a trade for Carmelo Anthony, but that Melo has no interest in signing an extension in Cleveland.

Denver's frontcourt has been slowed by injuries heading into the season, and Varejao could provide a reliable and capable starter if need be, or some high energy off the bench.

But if the team won't get a star in return, it looks like they'll be holding onto him for now.

Yet, don't entirely rule it out in the future. It's been speculated that if Cleveland is struggling at the trade deadline this season, Mo Williams and Antawn Jamison could be on the block.

If the team is able to package one of them with Varejao for a star, it doesn't seem out of the realm of possibly they could indeed include him in such a deal if it makes sense.

-- Ryan Corazza

hollinger_john_30.jpg
[h5]ESPN's John Hollinger[/h5]
Varejao had impressive 2009-10 campaign
"Varejao produced the best season of his career at both ends and was a legitimate candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. One thing that stood out is how much less he flopped -- while Varejao still drew 28 charges, it was barely half the 51 he drew a year earlier. Instead, he flew around the court with even more energy than ever, swallowing up pick-and-rolls and defending the post with similar vigor. The Cavs allowed 5.8 points per 100 possessions less with Varejao on the court, and the visual backed up the numbers -- he was a relentless defensive presence. Varejao also delivered some offensive value, converting 65.6 percent of his shots in the basket area for the fifth-best mark in the league. The other underrated part of his game is that he's a good ballhandler who had one of the better pure point ratings among big men. His next challenge is to bring the same energy for more extended bursts as a starting center."
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[/h3]

http://[h3]Knicks, Nets still in a race for Melo[/h3]
9:31AM ET

[h5]Carmelo Anthony | Nuggets [/h5]


The Knicks on Wednesday denied a report by ESPN.com's Chris Sheridan that discussions with Denver regarding Carmelo Anthony were on again.

"It's just talk," head coach Mike D'Antoni told The New York Times. "And I'm not going deal in it. I don't deal in it."

D'Antoni is downplaying the Knicks' interest, but it's very high, especially since filmmaker Spike Lee has informed president Donnie Walsh that Anthony wants to play for the team.

"Carmelo definitely, 100 percent wants to be a Knick," a source tells the New York Post.

Meanwhile, The Record reports the Nets have not stopped pursuing Anthony and rookie Derrick Favors is still part of a trade for the All-Star.

"They (the Nets) still have a pretty good feeling that something could get done," an NBA source tells the newspaper.

Reportedly the deal currently on the table for Anthony is Favors, Troy Murphy, Kris Humphries and two No. 1 picks.

Anthony continues to say all the trade speculation isn't distracting him.

"I'm too focused in on this season right now to let rumors or anything like that come in and take over," Anthony said. "I'm focusing on playing basketball and doing what's right for the team."

Asked if he just wants the whole thing to be resolved, Anthony told The Denver Post: "It doesn't bother me. It really doesn't bother me. I'm able to still wake up in the morning and smile, come in here, laugh and joke with my teammates, play basketball. That stuff doesn't bother me. It's not life or death."

http://[h3]Heat waive Hasbrouck and Randolph[/h3]
9:23AM ET

[h5]Miami Heat [/h5]

The Miami Heat waived guard Kenny Hasbrouck and forward Shavlik Randolph on Wednesday. The roster is at 16, so another move will need to be made by Monday.
The players on the bubble are rookies Patrick Beverley and De'Sean Butler and veteran Jamaal Magloire.

http://[h3]Suns could still land Dampier[/h3]
9:04AM ET

[h5]Erick Dampier | Mavericks [/h5]


The Phoenix Suns remain on the list of teams veteran center Erick Dampier will consider signing with in the near future.

"We are continuing to explore ways to improve our roster," Suns president of basketball operations Lon Babby told The Arizona Republic.

Dampier, according to the newspaper, is expected to select a team before the rosters are set Monday.

"Phoenix is certainly one of the top teams he's considering," said Dan Fegan, Dampier's agent.

http://[h3]Richardson's next contract[/h3]
9:03AM ET

[h5]Jason Richardson | Suns [/h5]


Suns guard Jason Richardson is entering the final season of his contract with the team and the two sides have had discussions about the possibility of an extension and they will do so again at some point.

"We've had a number of preliminary discussions regarding Jason," agent Dan Fegan told The Arizona Republic. "We expect to resume talks to determine a direction in the near future."

Richardson will earn $14.4 million this season.

http://[h3]Kobe won't play heavy-minutes early[/h3]
9:03AM ET

[h5]Kobe Bryant | Lakers [/h5]


Kobe Bryant, still recovering from right knee surgery, is averaging only 19.5 minutes in the six preseason games and head coach Phil Jackson says his shooting guard will continue to have limited time on the floor once the regular season tips off on Tuesday against the Houston Rockets.

"I don't anticipate he's going to be playing heavy-minute games to start this season," Jackson told ESPNLosAngeles.com. "So, we'll have to find a pattern out there so he has the greatest influence in the amount of minutes he gets."

Bryant has played in all six preseason games, but is listed as questionable for Thursday against Golden State in San Diego.

http://[h3]Hornets waive Strawberry[/h3]
9:03AM ET

[h5]New Orleans Hornets [/h5]


The Times-Picayune reports the Hornets waived .J. Strawberry on Wednesday night after their game against the Bobcats.

The Hornets roster is now down to the limit of 15.

http://[h3]Magic still a Laker VP[/h3]
8:49AM ET

[h5]Los Angeles Lakers [/h5]


UPDATE: According to The Orange County Register, Magic Johnson, who sold his 4.5 percent share in the Lakers, will retain his title as vice president with the team.

Johnson told the Los Angeles Times that he wants to own the majority of a sports team and would like to help bring a NFL team to Los Angeles.

"I haven't had any discussions about the NFL," Johnson said. "But I really, really want the NFL to come back to LA. Would I be interested? Of course I will be interested. Have I talked to anybody? No. But I would do that in two seconds."

Fans of the Dodgers would probably like to see him part of the MLB team, but that's not going to happen.

"No, I won't be buying the Dodgers," said Johnson.

----

Magic Johnson sold his 4.5 percent share of the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday to Patrick Soon-Shiong. According to the Los Angeles Times, Johnson's shares had an estimated value of $27 million, but he reportedly got more than that.

"It was a very smart business decision on Earvin's part [to sell]," said Lon Rosen, Johnson's longtime agent.

"The sale amount was 'a lot more' than $27 million, a team source said. "[Magic] was made an offer that he couldn't refuse."

There had been speculation that Johnson wants to own an NBA team, but this sale has nothing to do with those rumors.

Now that Johnson is no longer an owner of the Lakers, ESPN.com's J.A. Adande thinks he should buy the Los Angeles Dodgers.

adande_j.a._30.jpg
[h5]J.A. Adande[/h5]
Dodgers need Magic
"It would be a great public-relations decision to buy the Dodgers. For the past 30 years, Johnson has defined sports in L.A. He's the guy with a basketball-dribbling statue outside Staples Center, even though he never played in the building. Kobe Bryant's five championships have to be viewed in the context of Magic's achievements; even Kobe said he now has finally earned the right to sit at the same dinner table as Magic. ... Does he know baseball? Well, he probably didn't know every last bean of the coffee business before he partnered with Starbucks, but he made sure to learn from those who did. That's because, most of all, he knows what works. It's about investing in smart people and hard workers, regardless of the business. Los Angeles loves him. The Dodgers need him. Johnson is nothing if not successful. Does anyone doubt that if he bought the Dodgers it could be Winnin' Time all over again?"
Click to expand...

http://[h3]Blazers waive Hill and Sykes [/h3]
8:16AM ET

[h5]Portland Trail Blazers [/h5]


The http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=porPortland Trail Blazers waived center http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=3477Steven Hill and forward http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=4039Raymond Sykes on Wednesday. The roster now stands 16. The team must get down to 15 by Monday and point guard http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=4004Patrick Mills is the likely candidate to be waived.

Mills plans to keep playing hard until a final decision is made.

"You can come in with the mentality that I'm here for a reason, and while you're here, make the most of an opportunity, or you can just pretty much give up and throw it all away," Mills tells The Columbian. "The mentality I have is that you gotta work hard, because if it doesn't work out here, it will work out somewhere else."

Mills should find a new team fairly quickly, if he is indeed released by Portland.

http://[h3]Big Baby not worried[/h3]
7:38AM ET

[h5]Glen Davis | Celtics [/h5]


Even though Glen "Big Baby" Davis is entering the final year of his contract with Boston, which coincides with the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement, the burly forward says he is not worried by the uncertainty of his next deal.

"Yeah, it motivates me, just as a player," Davis told The Boston Globe. "I can't dwell on it, because if it worries you, it stops you from the task at hand. So I'm just focused on trying to get back to the championship, trying to win a championship and help my team."

Davis will earn a little more than $3 million this season.

"Things will fall off the way they are supposed to," he said. "I just got to keep playing and don't worry about it. There's nothing I can do, but it does test my patience. But at the same time, what else can I do? Sit there and just wait."

http://[h3]Celtics keep Wafer[/h3]
7:25AM ET

[h5]Von Wafer | Celtics [/h5]


Veteran guard Von Wafer has won the last spot on the Celtics roster over camp invitees Stephane Lasme and Mario West. The team made the decision Wednesday night.

Lasme and West will officially be released first thing Thursday morning and will clear waivers on Monday.

"I'm going to go home and relax," Lasme told ESPNBoston.com "I'm sure somebody is going to call. I'll wait for the phone call and make my decision from there."

Lasme could play for the Celtics D-League team in Maine, if an offer from another team in the NBA or overseas doesn't come his way.

The Celtics still have Tiny Gallon on the roster, but he's expected to be waived by Monday, when the club's 15-man roster will be set.

http://[h3]Good news for Collins[/h3]
7:10AM ET

[h5]Doug Collins | 76ers [/h5]


UPDATE: The tests done Tuesday and Wednesday were negative and Doug Collins is expected to rejoin the 76ers on Friday.

"He's feeling better," associate head coach Michael Curry told The Philadelphia Inquirer. "Tests, as he sees them right now, were good. So we're expecting him bright and early Friday morning. [He will] start going over some tapes, getting ready for the start of the season."

----

76ers head coach Doug Collins left the team on Tuesday and returned to Philadelphia to visit a neurologist, since he's suffering from headaches and dizziness. He fell in May on Memorial Day and sustained a concussion.

"He told us this morning, he hadn't said anything before," assistant coach Michael Curry told the Philadelphia Daily News. "Hopefully they'll run the tests and hopefully he'll be good. I haven't noticed any difference. We've been meeting a lot and going over a lot of things in preparation for these next two games and for the start of the season. We've been together a lot and spent a lot of hours together. I haven't seen anything different."

"I found out about it [yesterday]," said president Rod Thorn. "I had no idea that he had had a concussion. I'm just glad that it's something that he felt strongly enough about that he needed to get checked. We're hopeful that it will be a temporary thing and he'll be back with us soon. Evidently he's been having some headaches and a little vertigo."

Collins may miss Wednesday's game against the Knicks.

http://[h3]Blair wins starting spot[/h3]
6:43AM ET

[h5]DeJuan Blair | Spurs [/h5]


Second-year power forward DeJuan Blair has been named a starter for the Spurs final preseason game and will have the same role when the season begins next week. Blair will join http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=215Tim Duncan, http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1006Richard Jefferson, http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1015Tony Parker and http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=272Manu Ginobili in the starting lineup.

"Starting in the NBA is a big thing for anybody who's in the NBA," Blair told the San Antonio Express-News. "Getting minutes is another big thing, and being smart. He's giving me the opportunity, and I'm going to take full advantage of it and try to be the best I can be."

Blair, 21, will be the youngest opening night starter since Parker did that in 2002.

http://[h3]Vasquez's ankle slow to heal[/h3]
6:33AM ET

[h5]Memphis Grizzlies [/h5]


Greivis Vasquez, the No. 28 pick in the June draft, has not fully recovered from ankle surgery and will begin the season on the inactive list.

"It has to be disappointing for him," head coach Lionel Hollins told The Commercial-Appeal. "Training camp was a chance to establish himself. (The injury) delayed his opportunity. It definitely puts him behind the eight ball in terms of getting in the rotation. The train is down the track. He's on a push cart behind it."

Vasquez, when he does get healthy, will be the third point guard behind Mike Conley and Acie Law.

http://[h3]Diogu and Hamilton waived[/h3]
5:57AM ET

[h5]Detroit Pistons [/h5]


The Detroit Pistons released Ike Diogu and Vernon Hamilton on Wednesday. The roster is now at 15 and set for the season.

"We'll miss them," head coach John Kuester told the Detroit Free Press. "Ike was coming off an injury, and he's got a place in the league. There's no question in my mind. ... Both of those young men elevated our practice."

http://[h3]Minnesota waives two[/h3]
5:47AM ET

[h5]Minnesota Timberwolves [/h5]


UPDATE: Maurice Ager, who was signed to a non-guaranteed contract, remained on the roster Wednesday, but he could be waived Thursday, so that he can clear waivers on Monday. Ager will earn at least one day of pay if he's not waived by 6 p.m. eastern on Thursday.

It's possible the Timberwolves could make another move by Monday.

"You might see something happen," head coach Kurt Rambis told the Star Tribune. "It's not out of the question that we'd carry 15."

----

According to Sam Amick of FanHouse, the Timberwolves have waived guard http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=312Jason Hart and forward http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=848John Thomas.

Such moves leave the roster at 15 players. This could mean the Wolves' final roster is set, as that's the maximum allowed by the league.
 
http://[h3]
[h3]Varejao drawing interest[/h3]
11:08AM ET

[h5]Anderson Varejao | Cavaliers [/h5]


According to Ken Berger of CBS Sports, "sources say numerous teams have inquired about [Anderson] Varejao, but the Cavs won't even entertain such talks unless they're getting a superstar in return."

In particular, Berger reports he's on Denver's list of veteran players they'd like in a trade for Carmelo Anthony, but that Melo has no interest in signing an extension in Cleveland.

Denver's frontcourt has been slowed by injuries heading into the season, and Varejao could provide a reliable and capable starter if need be, or some high energy off the bench.

But if the team won't get a star in return, it looks like they'll be holding onto him for now.

Yet, don't entirely rule it out in the future. It's been speculated that if Cleveland is struggling at the trade deadline this season, Mo Williams and Antawn Jamison could be on the block.

If the team is able to package one of them with Varejao for a star, it doesn't seem out of the realm of possibly they could indeed include him in such a deal if it makes sense.

-- Ryan Corazza

hollinger_john_30.jpg
[h5]ESPN's John Hollinger[/h5]
Varejao had impressive 2009-10 campaign
"Varejao produced the best season of his career at both ends and was a legitimate candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. One thing that stood out is how much less he flopped -- while Varejao still drew 28 charges, it was barely half the 51 he drew a year earlier. Instead, he flew around the court with even more energy than ever, swallowing up pick-and-rolls and defending the post with similar vigor. The Cavs allowed 5.8 points per 100 possessions less with Varejao on the court, and the visual backed up the numbers -- he was a relentless defensive presence. Varejao also delivered some offensive value, converting 65.6 percent of his shots in the basket area for the fifth-best mark in the league. The other underrated part of his game is that he's a good ballhandler who had one of the better pure point ratings among big men. His next challenge is to bring the same energy for more extended bursts as a starting center."
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[/h3]

http://[h3]Knicks, Nets still in a race for Melo[/h3]
9:31AM ET

[h5]Carmelo Anthony | Nuggets [/h5]


The Knicks on Wednesday denied a report by ESPN.com's Chris Sheridan that discussions with Denver regarding Carmelo Anthony were on again.

"It's just talk," head coach Mike D'Antoni told The New York Times. "And I'm not going deal in it. I don't deal in it."

D'Antoni is downplaying the Knicks' interest, but it's very high, especially since filmmaker Spike Lee has informed president Donnie Walsh that Anthony wants to play for the team.

"Carmelo definitely, 100 percent wants to be a Knick," a source tells the New York Post.

Meanwhile, The Record reports the Nets have not stopped pursuing Anthony and rookie Derrick Favors is still part of a trade for the All-Star.

"They (the Nets) still have a pretty good feeling that something could get done," an NBA source tells the newspaper.

Reportedly the deal currently on the table for Anthony is Favors, Troy Murphy, Kris Humphries and two No. 1 picks.

Anthony continues to say all the trade speculation isn't distracting him.

"I'm too focused in on this season right now to let rumors or anything like that come in and take over," Anthony said. "I'm focusing on playing basketball and doing what's right for the team."

Asked if he just wants the whole thing to be resolved, Anthony told The Denver Post: "It doesn't bother me. It really doesn't bother me. I'm able to still wake up in the morning and smile, come in here, laugh and joke with my teammates, play basketball. That stuff doesn't bother me. It's not life or death."

http://[h3]Heat waive Hasbrouck and Randolph[/h3]
9:23AM ET

[h5]Miami Heat [/h5]

The Miami Heat waived guard Kenny Hasbrouck and forward Shavlik Randolph on Wednesday. The roster is at 16, so another move will need to be made by Monday.
The players on the bubble are rookies Patrick Beverley and De'Sean Butler and veteran Jamaal Magloire.

http://[h3]Suns could still land Dampier[/h3]
9:04AM ET

[h5]Erick Dampier | Mavericks [/h5]


The Phoenix Suns remain on the list of teams veteran center Erick Dampier will consider signing with in the near future.

"We are continuing to explore ways to improve our roster," Suns president of basketball operations Lon Babby told The Arizona Republic.

Dampier, according to the newspaper, is expected to select a team before the rosters are set Monday.

"Phoenix is certainly one of the top teams he's considering," said Dan Fegan, Dampier's agent.

http://[h3]Richardson's next contract[/h3]
9:03AM ET

[h5]Jason Richardson | Suns [/h5]


Suns guard Jason Richardson is entering the final season of his contract with the team and the two sides have had discussions about the possibility of an extension and they will do so again at some point.

"We've had a number of preliminary discussions regarding Jason," agent Dan Fegan told The Arizona Republic. "We expect to resume talks to determine a direction in the near future."

Richardson will earn $14.4 million this season.

http://[h3]Kobe won't play heavy-minutes early[/h3]
9:03AM ET

[h5]Kobe Bryant | Lakers [/h5]


Kobe Bryant, still recovering from right knee surgery, is averaging only 19.5 minutes in the six preseason games and head coach Phil Jackson says his shooting guard will continue to have limited time on the floor once the regular season tips off on Tuesday against the Houston Rockets.

"I don't anticipate he's going to be playing heavy-minute games to start this season," Jackson told ESPNLosAngeles.com. "So, we'll have to find a pattern out there so he has the greatest influence in the amount of minutes he gets."

Bryant has played in all six preseason games, but is listed as questionable for Thursday against Golden State in San Diego.

http://[h3]Hornets waive Strawberry[/h3]
9:03AM ET

[h5]New Orleans Hornets [/h5]


The Times-Picayune reports the Hornets waived .J. Strawberry on Wednesday night after their game against the Bobcats.

The Hornets roster is now down to the limit of 15.

http://[h3]Magic still a Laker VP[/h3]
8:49AM ET

[h5]Los Angeles Lakers [/h5]


UPDATE: According to The Orange County Register, Magic Johnson, who sold his 4.5 percent share in the Lakers, will retain his title as vice president with the team.

Johnson told the Los Angeles Times that he wants to own the majority of a sports team and would like to help bring a NFL team to Los Angeles.

"I haven't had any discussions about the NFL," Johnson said. "But I really, really want the NFL to come back to LA. Would I be interested? Of course I will be interested. Have I talked to anybody? No. But I would do that in two seconds."

Fans of the Dodgers would probably like to see him part of the MLB team, but that's not going to happen.

"No, I won't be buying the Dodgers," said Johnson.

----

Magic Johnson sold his 4.5 percent share of the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday to Patrick Soon-Shiong. According to the Los Angeles Times, Johnson's shares had an estimated value of $27 million, but he reportedly got more than that.

"It was a very smart business decision on Earvin's part [to sell]," said Lon Rosen, Johnson's longtime agent.

"The sale amount was 'a lot more' than $27 million, a team source said. "[Magic] was made an offer that he couldn't refuse."

There had been speculation that Johnson wants to own an NBA team, but this sale has nothing to do with those rumors.

Now that Johnson is no longer an owner of the Lakers, ESPN.com's J.A. Adande thinks he should buy the Los Angeles Dodgers.

adande_j.a._30.jpg
[h5]J.A. Adande[/h5]
Dodgers need Magic
"It would be a great public-relations decision to buy the Dodgers. For the past 30 years, Johnson has defined sports in L.A. He's the guy with a basketball-dribbling statue outside Staples Center, even though he never played in the building. Kobe Bryant's five championships have to be viewed in the context of Magic's achievements; even Kobe said he now has finally earned the right to sit at the same dinner table as Magic. ... Does he know baseball? Well, he probably didn't know every last bean of the coffee business before he partnered with Starbucks, but he made sure to learn from those who did. That's because, most of all, he knows what works. It's about investing in smart people and hard workers, regardless of the business. Los Angeles loves him. The Dodgers need him. Johnson is nothing if not successful. Does anyone doubt that if he bought the Dodgers it could be Winnin' Time all over again?"
Click to expand...

http://[h3]Blazers waive Hill and Sykes [/h3]
8:16AM ET

[h5]Portland Trail Blazers [/h5]


The http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=porPortland Trail Blazers waived center http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=3477Steven Hill and forward http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=4039Raymond Sykes on Wednesday. The roster now stands 16. The team must get down to 15 by Monday and point guard http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=4004Patrick Mills is the likely candidate to be waived.

Mills plans to keep playing hard until a final decision is made.

"You can come in with the mentality that I'm here for a reason, and while you're here, make the most of an opportunity, or you can just pretty much give up and throw it all away," Mills tells The Columbian. "The mentality I have is that you gotta work hard, because if it doesn't work out here, it will work out somewhere else."

Mills should find a new team fairly quickly, if he is indeed released by Portland.

http://[h3]Big Baby not worried[/h3]
7:38AM ET

[h5]Glen Davis | Celtics [/h5]


Even though Glen "Big Baby" Davis is entering the final year of his contract with Boston, which coincides with the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement, the burly forward says he is not worried by the uncertainty of his next deal.

"Yeah, it motivates me, just as a player," Davis told The Boston Globe. "I can't dwell on it, because if it worries you, it stops you from the task at hand. So I'm just focused on trying to get back to the championship, trying to win a championship and help my team."

Davis will earn a little more than $3 million this season.

"Things will fall off the way they are supposed to," he said. "I just got to keep playing and don't worry about it. There's nothing I can do, but it does test my patience. But at the same time, what else can I do? Sit there and just wait."

http://[h3]Celtics keep Wafer[/h3]
7:25AM ET

[h5]Von Wafer | Celtics [/h5]


Veteran guard Von Wafer has won the last spot on the Celtics roster over camp invitees Stephane Lasme and Mario West. The team made the decision Wednesday night.

Lasme and West will officially be released first thing Thursday morning and will clear waivers on Monday.

"I'm going to go home and relax," Lasme told ESPNBoston.com "I'm sure somebody is going to call. I'll wait for the phone call and make my decision from there."

Lasme could play for the Celtics D-League team in Maine, if an offer from another team in the NBA or overseas doesn't come his way.

The Celtics still have Tiny Gallon on the roster, but he's expected to be waived by Monday, when the club's 15-man roster will be set.

http://[h3]Good news for Collins[/h3]
7:10AM ET

[h5]Doug Collins | 76ers [/h5]


UPDATE: The tests done Tuesday and Wednesday were negative and Doug Collins is expected to rejoin the 76ers on Friday.

"He's feeling better," associate head coach Michael Curry told The Philadelphia Inquirer. "Tests, as he sees them right now, were good. So we're expecting him bright and early Friday morning. [He will] start going over some tapes, getting ready for the start of the season."

----

76ers head coach Doug Collins left the team on Tuesday and returned to Philadelphia to visit a neurologist, since he's suffering from headaches and dizziness. He fell in May on Memorial Day and sustained a concussion.

"He told us this morning, he hadn't said anything before," assistant coach Michael Curry told the Philadelphia Daily News. "Hopefully they'll run the tests and hopefully he'll be good. I haven't noticed any difference. We've been meeting a lot and going over a lot of things in preparation for these next two games and for the start of the season. We've been together a lot and spent a lot of hours together. I haven't seen anything different."

"I found out about it [yesterday]," said president Rod Thorn. "I had no idea that he had had a concussion. I'm just glad that it's something that he felt strongly enough about that he needed to get checked. We're hopeful that it will be a temporary thing and he'll be back with us soon. Evidently he's been having some headaches and a little vertigo."

Collins may miss Wednesday's game against the Knicks.

http://[h3]Blair wins starting spot[/h3]
6:43AM ET

[h5]DeJuan Blair | Spurs [/h5]


Second-year power forward DeJuan Blair has been named a starter for the Spurs final preseason game and will have the same role when the season begins next week. Blair will join http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=215Tim Duncan, http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1006Richard Jefferson, http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1015Tony Parker and http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=272Manu Ginobili in the starting lineup.

"Starting in the NBA is a big thing for anybody who's in the NBA," Blair told the San Antonio Express-News. "Getting minutes is another big thing, and being smart. He's giving me the opportunity, and I'm going to take full advantage of it and try to be the best I can be."

Blair, 21, will be the youngest opening night starter since Parker did that in 2002.

http://[h3]Vasquez's ankle slow to heal[/h3]
6:33AM ET

[h5]Memphis Grizzlies [/h5]


Greivis Vasquez, the No. 28 pick in the June draft, has not fully recovered from ankle surgery and will begin the season on the inactive list.

"It has to be disappointing for him," head coach Lionel Hollins told The Commercial-Appeal. "Training camp was a chance to establish himself. (The injury) delayed his opportunity. It definitely puts him behind the eight ball in terms of getting in the rotation. The train is down the track. He's on a push cart behind it."

Vasquez, when he does get healthy, will be the third point guard behind Mike Conley and Acie Law.

http://[h3]Diogu and Hamilton waived[/h3]
5:57AM ET

[h5]Detroit Pistons [/h5]


The Detroit Pistons released Ike Diogu and Vernon Hamilton on Wednesday. The roster is now at 15 and set for the season.

"We'll miss them," head coach John Kuester told the Detroit Free Press. "Ike was coming off an injury, and he's got a place in the league. There's no question in my mind. ... Both of those young men elevated our practice."

http://[h3]Minnesota waives two[/h3]
5:47AM ET

[h5]Minnesota Timberwolves [/h5]


UPDATE: Maurice Ager, who was signed to a non-guaranteed contract, remained on the roster Wednesday, but he could be waived Thursday, so that he can clear waivers on Monday. Ager will earn at least one day of pay if he's not waived by 6 p.m. eastern on Thursday.

It's possible the Timberwolves could make another move by Monday.

"You might see something happen," head coach Kurt Rambis told the Star Tribune. "It's not out of the question that we'd carry 15."

----

According to Sam Amick of FanHouse, the Timberwolves have waived guard http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=312Jason Hart and forward http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=848John Thomas.

Such moves leave the roster at 15 players. This could mean the Wolves' final roster is set, as that's the maximum allowed by the league.
 
^^^No question CP I'm definitely new to the thread lol but I'm also considering this as a mainstay for me as well from here on out. I've only been on NT for about a year but make no mistake I’m far from a newbie in the sport of basketball. This is clearly the perfect forum for debates and conversations about where we at the end of the day, agree to be the sport we've loved and admired for so many years. That’s the common bond I guess .. New and Old! Having said that I'm glad to be a part of this thread and surely look forward to what will be without a doubt some of the most exciting basketball I've seen since the 90's!

Players I look forward to having a great to BREAK out year.

G -- Stephen Curry Warriors: Proved to all critics that he is clearly capable of being more then just a spot up shooter but can also provide solid Point Guard play if not clearly the potential of being top 10 in the league.

G -- Darren Collison Pacers: Despite how we may feel, when CP3 went down Darren was clearly the most pleasant surprise for the Hornet organization. Dude showed incredible brilliance running that offense and now that he'll have the duties full time in Indiana I can only expect him to be an elite point guard sooner then later.

F -- Luis Scola Rockets: Definitely not new to this league by no stretch of the imagination but after his incredibly stellar performance in FIBA play this past summer, his number will be called upon in huge proportions this season and will have a 20 and 10 season minimum. Especially having Yao Ming playing such limited minutes as well.

F -- Blake Griffin Clippers: Yes he's a rookie (Sort of) lol but clearly that makes no difference as far as his progression on the basketball court. Out with a season ending injury last year, Griffin will be poised on being one of the dominant forwards in the west and will surely win the ROY award. Might as well already hand it to him IMO lol. But we've got a season worth of watching him play injury free hopefully to see that come to fruition.

C -- Joakim Noah Bulls: Can be a top 3 Center in this league and with the addition of Boozer, skepticism may set in but that just naturally slides Noah into that Center position fulltime. With his athleticism and versatility, he'll surely contest against the top Centers in this league mainly being Pau Gasol.

Just my take on what I’d expect from some of the players in this year’s upcoming season, and purely just based on opinion. All in all as stated, looking forward to being a mainstay on this thread and expecting some surprises along the way as well.
 
^^^No question CP I'm definitely new to the thread lol but I'm also considering this as a mainstay for me as well from here on out. I've only been on NT for about a year but make no mistake I’m far from a newbie in the sport of basketball. This is clearly the perfect forum for debates and conversations about where we at the end of the day, agree to be the sport we've loved and admired for so many years. That’s the common bond I guess .. New and Old! Having said that I'm glad to be a part of this thread and surely look forward to what will be without a doubt some of the most exciting basketball I've seen since the 90's!

Players I look forward to having a great to BREAK out year.

G -- Stephen Curry Warriors: Proved to all critics that he is clearly capable of being more then just a spot up shooter but can also provide solid Point Guard play if not clearly the potential of being top 10 in the league.

G -- Darren Collison Pacers: Despite how we may feel, when CP3 went down Darren was clearly the most pleasant surprise for the Hornet organization. Dude showed incredible brilliance running that offense and now that he'll have the duties full time in Indiana I can only expect him to be an elite point guard sooner then later.

F -- Luis Scola Rockets: Definitely not new to this league by no stretch of the imagination but after his incredibly stellar performance in FIBA play this past summer, his number will be called upon in huge proportions this season and will have a 20 and 10 season minimum. Especially having Yao Ming playing such limited minutes as well.

F -- Blake Griffin Clippers: Yes he's a rookie (Sort of) lol but clearly that makes no difference as far as his progression on the basketball court. Out with a season ending injury last year, Griffin will be poised on being one of the dominant forwards in the west and will surely win the ROY award. Might as well already hand it to him IMO lol. But we've got a season worth of watching him play injury free hopefully to see that come to fruition.

C -- Joakim Noah Bulls: Can be a top 3 Center in this league and with the addition of Boozer, skepticism may set in but that just naturally slides Noah into that Center position fulltime. With his athleticism and versatility, he'll surely contest against the top Centers in this league mainly being Pau Gasol.

Just my take on what I’d expect from some of the players in this year’s upcoming season, and purely just based on opinion. All in all as stated, looking forward to being a mainstay on this thread and expecting some surprises along the way as well.
 
This will sound hateful, but I hope Mil gets stuck w/that Redd contract.
laugh.gif


Some of these deals you see these guys get and you just scratch your head.

Joe Johnson anyone?
 
This will sound hateful, but I hope Mil gets stuck w/that Redd contract.
laugh.gif


Some of these deals you see these guys get and you just scratch your head.

Joe Johnson anyone?
 
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