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3 Takes From Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals as Heat beat Pacers

Posted: May 23, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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E3PdO.St.56

Every child across the world has to be singing The Lion King’s triumphant tune, “Oh I just can’t wait to be King” right now.

Some of us have witnessed greatness in His Airness, show-stopping in Magic Johnson, dominance in Wilt the Stilt and the aerodynamics of Doctor Julius Erving, but now, we are all a witness of the runaway freight train that is King James.

We all expected to see two contrasting styles trading blows. A gritty, grimy, jersey pulling series with inevitable hard fouls and explicit chatter on the court. This is exactly what we witnessed in game 1 and more.

The league’s most efficient offense vs. the league’s most efficient defense, these two bad blood teams already had the makings of a hard fought series even before tip off. After a sensational 2.2 second game winning  drive to the basket, LeBron James snatched victory from the jaws of defeat as the Heat sent the Pacers packing with 1-0 series lead.

It was good to see the game was well coached and officiated, right?

Oops.

Let’s take a look at a few factors in game one:

1. Roy Hibbert in or out?

Much has been made of Frank Vogel’s decision to take out allstar center and rim protector Roy Hibbert out for the final two minutes of the game. Should I point out that the 38 total minutes Hibbert and James spent on the court together, James drove to the basket only 3 times. During the 9 minutes James was on the floor without Hibbert, LeBron attacked the basket 6 times. So, should it surprise anyone that the best player on the planet eyes lit up when he noticed the 6’6″ 225lb Sam Young was the closet player to the basket guarding  Chris Bosh who was near the right baseline?

I’m sure the 7’2″ Hibbert would have made a difference at the basket, don’t you think?

Here is Pacers’ coach Frank Vogel on his decision making:

That’s the dilemma they present when they have Chris Bosh at the five spot. We put a switching lineup in with the intent to switch and keep everything in front of us. We pushed up a little too much and LeBron was able to beat us off the bounce. … We expected it to go to LeBron. We expected Bosh to be a spacing option.

Other analyst and commentators also weighed in on Vogel’s decision:

This only makes for an exciting game 2, but the Pacers can’t be to thrilled losing in that fashion.

2. The King and his Court

Before LeBron won his first title and hit a few game-tying or game winning buckets, the knock against LeBron was he couldn’t win the big “one” and he doesn’t have the clutch gene. Well it’s safe to say none of those factors are weighing down the King. With 2.2 seconds remaining on the clock and down by one, LeBron drove furiously to the hoop blowing pass Paul George to deliver the game-winning layup. And did I forget to mention James final stat line was 30 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assist? James is tied for the 5th most playoff triple-doubles in NBA history.

According to ESPN,

Since LeBron came into the league in 2003-04, nobody in the NBA has made more game-tying and go-ahead shots in the final 24 seconds of playoff games than LeBron, who is 7-of-16 on those shots. His 43.8 field-goal percentage on those clutch shots ranks the best in the NBA since his rookie season among players with at least 10 attempts. Along with his buzzer-beater layup, LeBron also made a go-ahead layup with just under 11 seconds remaining in overtime.

FG
LeBron James 7-16
Kobe Bryant 5-17
Kevin Durant 5-12
Dirk Nowitzki 5-12
*2003-04: LeBron’s 1st NBA Season
Best FG Pct on Game-Tying/Go-Ahead FG in Playoffs
Final 24 Sec of 4th Qtr/OT Since 2003-04
FG
LeBron James 43.8 7-16
Kevin Durant 41.7 5-12
Dirk Nowitzki 41.7 5-12
Manu Ginobili 30.0 3-10
*Minimum 10 FGA

 

Do you remember in game 5 of the the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals against the Detroit Pistons when LeBron scored 48 pts, 9 rebs, and 7 assists as a Cavalier scoring 29 of the last 30 points for the Cavs point and all of the last 25?

 

If that’s not clutch, I don’t know what is.

3. The Emergence of Paul George

It’s not like the 2012-13 Most Improved Player hasn’t been doing this all season. Listed at 6’8″ and weighing in at 221lbs, George presents the perfect defensive match up to square up with LeBron James, and boy did he hold his own. George finished with f 27 points, five assists and four rebounds going 7-of-16 from the field. This is an astonishing feat alone after having the guard LeBron for a total of 47 minutes.

What really has shot George to stardom was his clutch 32-foot jumper that sent the game to overtime, but he wasn’t wasn’t done there. After a questionable foul call on Dwayne Wade, who quietly had himself a nice game with 19 points showing flashes of the old Flash, George calmly knocked down three free throws that seemingly sealed the fate of the Heat. Those free throws gave the Pacers a one point lead before LeBron delivered a layup that laid the Pacers game 1 chance to rest.

The much anticipated game 2 can’t get here fast enough.

Quick Thoughts: Grizzlies/Thunder; Heat/Bulls and NFL Rumblings

Posted: May 16, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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believe

OK, C what had happened was…

I know I’ve said this a million times probably, but it is the golden rule of the NBA, superstars prevail. A superstar has that uncanny ability to will his team from the jaws of defeat, to physically and mentally mop the floor with their opponent and to announce themselves as the alpha dog on the court. However, the growl of the Grizzlies was much more louder and devastating than the crackling of the Thunder.

We can play what if and should’ve, could’ve, would’ve all day long, but the fact of the matter is the Memphis Grizzlies dominated the Oklahoma City without Russell Westbrook. Too many times Thunder players sat idle in the corners waiting to see what Durant would do next, will he make the next shot, should we pass or shoot?  While some stepped up in spots here and there, they ultimately didn’t have any other offensive help beside Durant. KD is a legit star in this league, but even he showed he can’t do it all by himself shooting 24% in game 5 going 5-21 from the field and 0-4 from beyond the arc, not to mention 7 turnovers.

OKC will no doubt be in contention next year with a healthy Westbrook, but they must add other scoring threats to compliment their two young stars. And no, I haven’t forgotten about Kevin Martin, he’s just isn’t much to talk about.

Bulldozed 

I applaud the Bulls for putting up a fight and making the game more interesting. It might have been in the game plan to fall behind early and lull the Heat to sleep, what did they have lose? Down three 3-1 to the defending champs with an assortment of injuries and mid-level talent, the series loss was inevitable.

Bulls fan everywhere are all waiting for the return of Derrick Rose. I’ll be anxious to see how the Bulls compete next year with their star back out on the court. LeBron has won 4 MVPs in 5 years. Who is the other guy sandwiched between LeBron’s incredible streak? Only the youngest MVP in NBA history, Derrick Rose.

Moving right along…

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe predicts he will lead the NFL in touchdown receptions and catches overall.

*The only reason why this could possibly happen is because Andy Reid has proved he will abandon the ground game and air it out 35+ times a game. Although, newly acquired quarterback  Alex Smith statistically doesn’t have a great outing when he’s chucking the ball all over the field on the NFL level. Jim Harbaugh did a phenomenal job masquerading Smith’s flaws and completely elevating his play. Maybe Smith’s ascent will transition into a huge year for Bowe. Maybe.

*Only a month ago, the Baltimore Ravens signed the eight overall pick in the 2010 draft to a one-year deal. Well, after being arrested three times since December, the 23-year-old Rolando McClain has announced his retirement. At first glance, I thought this was a bad decision because I felt football was the only structure McClain had in his life. But time away from football to fix his personal life is what he needs to overcome his shortcomings.

Here is a quote McClain told reporters about his decision to retire: 

“Quite simply, I love football, but I have decided at this time it is in my best interest to focus on getting my personal life together.”

Hopefully he finds a firm foundation to help him change his life around.

Steve Smith of the Carolina Panthers said this to reporters about Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez:

“He sucks.” I wouldn’t let Mark Sanchez throw me a paper bag sandwich.”

Of course, this is not news worthy, but gosh I sure got a laugh out of it.

-Brooks

Series Breakdown: The Brink of Elimination

Posted: May 15, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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With one game left that will decide the fate of the losing team in the series, it’s quite simple:

win or go home.

After a stunning game one victory over the defending champions, the bull-ied, battered and broken Chicago Bulls have lost three straight to the reigning 4-time MVP LeBron James and the Miami Heat. Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith of the New York Knicks are putting together one of the worst shooting performances in playoff history as they now find themselves in an insurmountable three games to one hole against a more physical and towering Pacers team. The ageless battle of youth versus experience between the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs rests on the gimpy ankles of Stephen Curry who’s looking to lead his team from a 3-2 series deficit. The team that’s receiving the least amount of recognition, the Memphis Grizzlies, has a strangle hold on arguably the best player in basketball, Kevin Durant, and his Oklahoma City Thunder.

All these storylines scream for a heart-stopping end or a breath of new life to extend the series. We will soon find out the next team who will set sail into a long offseason.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Miami vs. (4) Chicago

Series: Heat 3 – Bulls 1

Even before their rash of injuries, the Bulls were still no where near the class of the Heat. Chigcago cannot match the talent of Miami, the cohesiveness of Miami or Miami’s sheer will to win. Joakim Noah, Taj Gibson, Jimmy Butler and the rest of the Bulls had no choice but to be physical with the Heat because they knew they couldn’t cope with Miami’ star power. With a 3-1 lead, Miami won’t need a healthy Dwayne Wade to finish off a mentally defeated Bulls team. I picked the Heat to win this series in 5 games and that is appears to come into fruition tonight.

(2) New York vs. (3) Indiana

Series: Knicks 1 – Pacers 3

True, the Pacers do go through horrendous offensive dry spells, but it’s hard to watch the Knicks’ stagnant offense. They have no continuity orCarmelo-Anthony flow. The Knicks look like they’re playing blacktop basketball. When the ball is in the hands of Carmelo Anthony or J.R. Smith, it’s dribble, dribble, dribble some more, then shoot. This style of play fits right into the Pacers defensive game plan. Earlier in the season Melo stressed how important it is to get his teammates involved and trusting them more, but how is he doing so when his only answer is to shoot his way out of every problem? Anthony is an elite scorer, yes, but an elite player? No. The Pacers will close it out the series Thursday.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

(2) San Antonio vs. (6) Golden State

Series: Spurs 3 – Warriors 2

As much as I want to see the upstart Warriors take down the battle tested Spurs, coach Gregg Popovich will have his team ready in Golden State Thursday. Stephen Curry is hands down the best shooter in the NBA, however, his ailing ankles are not allowing him to generate enough lift on his jump shots and he doesn’t look explosive or confident when attacking the rim as of late. The Spurs have the perfect opportunity to seize the moment and to squander any remaining hope of the Warriors. San Antonio will finish off the series in game six.

(1) Oklahoma City vs. (5) Memphis

Series: Thunder 1 – Memphis 3

Right now, the Memphis Grizzlies are looking like the favorites to come out the West. The Grizzlies have three players averaging over 18 points a game (Mike Conley, Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol) and three players selected to all defensive teams (Defensive player of the year Gasol, Tony Allen and Tayshaun Prince). The case can easily be made of Russell Westbrooks’ importance to the Thunder, but the series could easily be up 3-1 Thunder as Kevin Durant has kept OKC in every game. He struggled late in game 4, but like many superstars, you can’t always do it by yourself. With the next game at home, Durant and Co. will feed from the roar of the home crowd and pull out a victory in game six. Durant is too much of legitimate superstar to lose four staight games in a row. Do not count out the Thunder yet.

Breaking It Down With Brooks

Posted: May 5, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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This video was shot earlier in the week.

UPDATE: Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Houston Rockets in 6 games. Series: 4-2

UPDATE: Golden State Warriors defeated Denver Nuggets in 6 games. Series: 4-2

UPDATE: New York Knicks defeated Boston Celtics in 6 games. Series: 4-2

I wanted to give you something informative and enjoyable to watch. As much as I love print, broadcast has also been calling my name. I’ll continue to work at it. I’m becoming more passionate doing on-camera work by the day. Follow me @BrooksWeekly and @DevynAire who also played a vital part in the photography and production. Check him out djonesum.tumblr.com

CONTINUE WATCHING FOR THE BLOOPER BREAKDOWN. You will get a nice laugh from it. Comment and like.

Quick Thoughts On NBA Playoffs Thus Far…

Posted: April 24, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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Curry

Can the sharp shooting Stephen Curry lead his team pass the uptempo Denver Nuggets?

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Miami Heat vs. (8) Milwaukee Bucks: Heat 2 -Bucks 0

The Bucks’ sub .500 regular season record (38-44) alone shows how undeserving they are to even be in the playoffs, let alone on the same court with the defending champs. Outmanned, outmatched and outclassed, this is a warm up series for Miami. Have the “Heatles” even broken a sweat?

(2) New York Knicks vs. (7) Boston Celtics: Knicks 2 – Celtics 0

How cliche would it sound if I said, Melo on a Mission? Determined to advance to the second round, Carmelo Anthony will do all he can, even if he has to give his Knicks a piggyback ride to face Indiana in round two more than likely. The Celtics simply do not matchup well against this high-powered offense. In the words of Kobe Bryant, Boston looks “old and slow.” Paul Piece is a mere shell of himself, this may be Kevin Garnett’s last year and Avery Bradley just isn’t ready. The Celtics are much more dominant when Jeff Green plays more assertive. Doc Rivers has to get him going early.

Even though they lost the first game 85-78, Green scored 26 points in a relatively tight game with his penetration in the lane and adding constant pressure on the Knicks’ sometiming defense. The second outing was a different story. Green hopes to erase a pitiful 10 point showing going 3 of 11 from the field. His second game letdown led to a 16 point loss by the hands of Melo and the Knicks. Coincidence? I think not.

(3) Indiana Pacers vs. (6) Atlanta Hawks: Pacers 2  - Hawks 0 

The Hawks are always in the middle/lower of the pack. They are just, well, there. The Hawks are just not good enough. While I like to improve play of point guard Jeff Teague and an underrated Al Horford, the Hawks never do enough. Nothing about them leaps off the page. Nothing is special about this team. Josh Smith is an all-star, not a superstar.

Indiana’s emerging Paul George is well deserving of the NBA Most Improved Player Award. His opening round triple-double cemented the honors. The Pacers true test will come against the Knicks in round two. Unless Larry Bird comes running through the tunnels of TD Bank Garden arena, Boston won’t see round two.

Deron-Williams-Nets-Playoffs

(4) Brooklyn Nets (5) Chicago Bulls: Nets 1 – Bulls 1

This matchup reels in my interest simply because of Deron Williams. When healthy, Williams is arguably the best point guard in the NBA. Before the playoffs began, he was looking like the Williams of the Salt Lake City days. His 22 pts and 7 ast performance in game one led me to believe the Bulls were in a world of trouble.

But silly me forgetting about Tom Thibodeau and Chicago’s suffocating defense. Williams did dish out 10 assist, but they hacked and corralled Williams to a 1 for 9 night. This series has the making to go the distance.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) Houston Rockets: Thunder 2 – Rockets 0

Poor James Harden. Having to play his former team in the opening rounds of the playoffs. He wants nothing more than get back at the team that shipped him coldheartedly out of Oklahoma City. What a great achievement it was to reach the playoffs in his first year in Houston, but they stand no chance against Kevin Durant and the Thunder. The only thing standing in the way of Oklahoma City is one of their own, Russell Westbrook.

(2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Los Angeles Lakers: Spurs 1 – Lakers 0 (Now 2-0) 

Call me delusional, but I actually picked the Lakers to win in 7 games largely because of the injuries and deficiencies of the Spurs. I figured the aging Tim Duncan couldn’t continue drinking from the fountain of youth, Tony Parker’s gimpy ankles wouldn’t hold up and Manu Ginobili was essentially done because of his nagging hamstring injuries.

Can I get a mulligan?

Ginobili came out hot and hit 18 points in 19 minutes in game one. Parker looked like his old self totaling 18 pts and 8 ast in game one. And Duncan? The best power forward in NBA history? He took another swig from the mythical fountain compiling 17 pts 10 rebs and 3 stls.

(3) Denver Nuggets vs. (6) Golden State Warriors: Nuggets 1 – Warriors 1

Smooth? Silky? Butter? Feel free to use whatever superlative or adjective at your discretion to describe Stephen Curry’s shooting stroke. I’m a firm believer that superstars prevail and triumph. While Denver has a premier supporting cast and  talented roll players, no one on that team is a superstar. The Warriors have a legit superstar in Curry. The baby faced assassin has lived up to the billing in his first taste of playoff action. Curry easily can lead the league in scoring while arguably becoming the best point guard in the NBA.

This series is far from over, but with Curry and the rest of his poachers taking aim beyond the arch, this 6th seed has what it takes to upset the Nuggets.

(4) Los Angeles Clippers vs. (5) Memphis Grizzlies: Clippers 2 – Grizzlies 0

Dating back to my superstar logic, the Grizzlies do not have any. Yes, they have the league stingiest defense and the Defensive Player of the Year in Marc Gasol, but the Grizzlies can’t overcome Lob City. Last year’s playoff meeting between the two was brutal, but I had gut feeling the Clippers were not having that this year. They’re too talented and athletic for the Memphis. And did I forget to mention Chris Paul?

-Kelton

#BrooksWeekly

The Impact of Kobe Bryant’s Injury on the Lakers

Posted: April 14, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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kobe2

If the Lakers make the playoffs, how will they fair without their fallen star?

They say time waits for no man, not even the competitive, driven warrior that is Kobe Bryant.

How can one fathom the thought of the Los Angeles Lakers without Bryant? In his illustrious 17 seasons of wearing purple and gold,  he has played in 1,239 of 1,346 possible regular season games and 220 of 223 playoff games. Besides his impeccable game winning step-back jumpers, sheer will to win and five NBA titles, his grit and durability belongs in a category of its own.

Due to the sad events that transpired April 12th against the Golden State Warriors, the Lakers  will have to move on without Bryant because of an Achilles tendon tear. Throughout the turmoil of the Lakers season, Bryant “guaranteed” his team will make the playoffs. True, Kobe has been playing in a youthful manner as of late, but how long could his injury riddled body at the age of 34 sustain the grind of the NBA? Many analyst, commentators and experts say his increased minutes of play doesn’t coincide with the injury.

Come again?

In his last 7 games, he has played 48, 47, 43, 47, 41, 48, 45, and headed towards another 48 minutes of play.

And that doesn’t equals to an Achilles tendon tear of the battled, future first ballot Hall-of-Famer who constantly played through a slew of injuries?

According to WebMD, an Achilles tendon injury might be caused by:

  • Overuse
  • Stepping up your level of physical activity too quickly
  • Not stretching enough before exercise
  • Wearing high heels, which increases the stress on the tendon (Doubt Kobe wears heels)
  • Problems with the feet. An Achilles tendon injury can result from flat feet, also known as fallen arches or overpronation. In this condition, the impact of a step causes the arch of your foot to collapse, stretching the muscles and tendons.
  • Muscles or tendons in the leg that are too tight

You’re more likely to tear an Achilles tendon when you start moving suddenly. For instance, a sprinter might get one at the start of a race. The abrupt tensing of the muscle can be too much for the tendon to handle. Men older than age 30 are particularly prone to Achilles tendon injuries.

Bryant aims to return next year, and the timetable for his return is six to nine months. He would most likely miss the start of the 2013-14 season, but he could possibly return during the middle of the season. In the meantime, LA will have to find a way to play without him.

Not only will the Lakers miss his 27.3 points a game, but the Lake Show will be without  32.6% of the its points production, 31.4% of the team’s field-goal attempts, and 34.9% of their free throw attempts. While I understand Bryant’s increased minutes were fueled by the chances to make a playoff push, I’d hate to play the blame game, but how can the Lakers organization not be at fault?

They opted to bring in Steve Nash who is a shell of himself and his coach in Mike D’Antoni who Bryant respects, but I wouldn’t say listens to. Phil Jackson was the only coach who could get in the head of Kobe and force him to rest on the bench. They drove Kobe into the ground. However, I will admit that I’m curious to see the impact of Nash’s return when he has both 7-footers at his disposal in Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol.

The Lakers have put out 41 different lineups this season with 32 of them including Bryant. While LA awaits for the return of Nash, if the playoffs started today, the starting lineup would be Steve Blake, Jodie Meeks, Earl Clark, Gasol and Howard. Not the scenario D’Antoni envisioned.

The obvious key factor for the Lakers survival, and their future, is Howard.

But in my opinion, Dwight cannot lead a team on his own. He’s too nice, not into the game at times, not the demanding, dominating, killer instinctive player like Bryant, but who is? And we can’t forget about the mess that went down in Orlando. While Howard unquestionably has the skill set, I can’t see him as the face of the franchise for the Lakers.

The Lakers will eventually have to part ways with the Black Mamba, but right now, the Lakers need Bryant. Especially going up against the San Antonio Spurs or the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round. Can they even make it a series against either team without Bryant if they make the playoffs?

That remains to be seen, but the loss of Kobe and his impact on the team and organization is huge to say the least.

If the NBA Playoffs Started Today…

Posted: April 11, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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MeloVino

More likely to lead his team to a championship in 2013, Carmelo Anthony or Kobe Bryant? 

Only 6 days away until the end of the regular season, teams are now resting players, fine tuning their roster or clinging on to everlasting hope as teams battle it out for the no. 8 seed.

As the playoff picture is quickly revealing itself, let’s take a look at the matchups if the playoffs started today:

EASTERN CONFERENCE 

No. 1 seed: Miami Heat

3598-miami-heat

vs.

No. 8 seed: Milwaukee Bucks

milwaukee-bucks

The Heat are 3-1 against the Bucks this season. At times, the defending champs struggle with the speed and tenacity of the Bucks’ dynamic duo backcourt. Barring an unforeseen, all-time performance by Brandon Jennings and Montae Ellis, I don’t see why LeBron James and the Heat won’t pull out the broom against a sub .500 team.

Series Winner: Miami in 4

No. 2 seed: New York Knicks

knicks_logo

vs.

No. 7 seed: Boston Celtics

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The Knicks have reached 50 victories for the first time since the 1999-2000 season. Carmelo Anthony is playing out of his mind and scoring at will right now. My only concern is what will happen to the Knicks when Amar’e Stoudemire returns to the lineup? When Melo doesn’t have to defer, is when he is at his best. Regardless of the friction between the two stars, New York’s onslaught of 3-pointers and athleticism will prove to be too much of a hassle for Boston.

Series Winner: New York in 6

No. 3 seed: Indiana Pacers

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vs.

No. 6 seed: Atlanta Hawks

Hawks

After this season, the Hawks are due for a major makeover. For the past couple of seasons, Atlanta is consistently in the middle of the pack. While teams are improving, they have either remained the same or gotten worse. I do enjoy the improved play of point guard Jeff Teague, but neither him nor Josh Smith are ready to endure Indiana’s physical style of play. They tied the season series at two games apiece, so the Hawks won’t go down without a fight.

Series Winner: Indiana in 6

No. 4 seed: Brooklyn Nets

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vs.

No. 5 seed: Chicago Bulls

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Unless Derrick Rose comes running out the tunnel of the United Center, the Bulls are destined for a one-and-done in the playoffs. In this league, superstars prevail. The Nets superstar point guard Deron Williams has been picking up steam as of late and looks to carry his performance into the postseason. The Bulls have a 3 games to 1 regular season record against Brooklyn, but I look for the Nets to flip the script in a long, fought series.

Series Winner: Brooklyn in 7

WESTERN CONFERENCE 

No. 1 seed: Oklahoma City Thunder

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vs.

No. 8 seed: Los Angeles Lakers

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Honestly, there is no clear cut favorite to come out the West, but this is a matchup the Lakers are hoping to avoid. The Thunder ran the Lakers off the court beating them in 5 games in the playoffs last year. Oklahoma has too much speed on the court for a team that Kobe Bryant called old and slow. Bryant guaranteed his Lakers will make the playoffs, but playing 40+ minutes a night with his recent rash of injuries? This future Hall-of-Famer may not have what it takes to shock the Thunder. My only concern with OKC is Kevin Durant’s passiveness. Night after night Durant is becoming second fiddle to Russell Westbrook as the charismatic point guard is taking more shots than arguably the best player in the NBA. Message to Kevin Durant: You are the best player on your team, demand the ball and become more assertive.

Series Winner: Thunder in 6

No. 2 seed: San Antonio Spurs

San_Antonio_Spurs_logo

vs.

No. 7 seed: Houston Rockets

houston-rockets-logo

Nothing like a good ole Texas showdown. The Spurs need to get healthy, and quick. The absence of Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili have led the Spurs to a 5-5 mark in their last 10 games. Sharp shooting Danny Greene is taking full advantage of his increased time on the court, but the Spurs must lean on their stars for a deep playoff run.  Tim Duncan has taken a dip into the fountain of youth, but at this stage of his career, he can no longer carry a team by himself. James Harden has elevated himself to a top-10 player in the league as she shows he has what it takes as the main attraction. IF the Spurs are healthy, they will win this series, but if not, I’m taking Houston with the upset.

Series Winner: Houston in 7

No. 3 seed: Denver Nuggets

DENVER_NUGGETS_LOGO1

vs.

No. 6 seed: Golden State Warriors

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The baby faced assassin will make his first appearance into the postseason and head coach Mark Jackson deserves coach of the year honors. This may be the most entertaining first round matchup we have seen in a while. In there four meetings, 100 points was scored in every game. The loss of Danilo Gallinari is a tough pill to swallow for the Nuggets, but Wilson Chandler is more than capable of picking up the slack.

Series Winner: Denver in 6

No. 4 seed: Los Angeles Clippers

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vs.

No. 5 seed: Memphis Grizzlies

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Another heavyweight bout in the making. Last year’s epic 7 game series proved to be memorable as both teams refused to yield. Lob City is more poised this year to challenge for a legitimate shot at the championship. The Clippers currently lead the regular season series 2-1 with one more game left between the two conference foes. Perhaps a statement game by the Clippers is in order to prove they are worthy to compete for a title.

Series Winner: Clippers in 6

Thanks for reading.

#BrooksWeekly

-Kelton

Brooks Bits: What’s Going on Around Here?

Posted: April 1, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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Tony Romo's seven-year, $119.5 million deal is the 15th deal worth at least $100 million in NFL history

Tony Romo’s seven-year, $119.5 million deal is the 15th deal worth at least $100 million in NFL history

So many genius, bold, head-scratching moves and events have happened as of late. It’s almost a troubling task to figure out where to start. The Final Four is upon us, teams are fighting for their playoff lives in the NBA, the NFL draft is less than 30 days away and how sweet it is to have baseball back. Let’s not waste anymore time, let me tell you how I feel about what’s going on around here:

1. The Carson Palmer dilemma 

What do you mean you don’t want to take a pay cut? What has Carson Palmer done in his dull, mediocre and pedestrian 11-year NFL career that has led him to believe he has any right to call the shots? Is it his two Pro-Bowls? I hope not. Maybe it’s his outstanding postseason record? Oh, wait, that’s right, Palmer has  zero playoff wins. With Palmer opting not to reconstruct the $13 million he is owed this season, the Raiders are forced to cut him or make him take a pay cut.

Well, they had another options in mind by trading a fifth-round pick in the 2014 draft and a conditional pick in 2015 for Seahawks quarterback Matt Flynn. Now, Palmer is involved in trade discussion with the Arizona Cardinals.

About that pay cut, aye Palmer?

2. 119.5 million reasons why the Cowboys have lost their mind

Maybe Jerry Jones grew weary cooped up in his million dollar home. Maybe he wanted to slick back his silver hair, dust off the cobwebs and spend a little money to get back at the NFL for basically voiding the Cowboys off-season. But Jones is walking the a line of insanity by investing over a 100 million dollars in perhaps the biggest gamble of a QB in Tony Romo. Sure, I get it. Romo does put up great numbers in the regular season, has a knack for ad libbing and extending plays and uncanny accuracy when he has time in the pocket, but I can’t help but to watch Romo with one eye open and one eye closed. There is so much love about Romo as a QB, but somehow he always seem to let you down. The infamous botched snap against Seattle, the 3 INTs in the second half against Detroit in 2011, two back-to-back season in a win and you’re in only to lose both times, he continues to prove he is untrustworthy.

Judging Romo on his numbers is like judging porn solely off the dialogue, you’re missing the point. Romo will continue to break hearts right along with the Jones’ pockets.

3. Eight games left

Will the Lakers make the playoffs?

Will the Lakers make the playoffs?

Injuries, lack of chemistry, old and slow and now on the cusp of not making the playoffs? Say it and so, Lakers. I’m saying so. Six of the Lakers last remaining eight games are against playoff teams. The Lakers are a half game out of 8th place trailing the superstar-less Utah Jazz. Quite frankly, a team loaded with 32 combined all-star appearances, two players earning MVP honors, three-time defensive player of the year and the best center in pro basketball should not waltz on the brink of missing the playoffs. Kobe Bryant guaranteed his Lakers will not miss out on the post season, but the only guarantee I see is a first round exit even if they do manage to back their way in.

Against the Sacramento Kings this past Saturday, Bryant passed the legendary Wilt Chamberalain  for fourth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. No doubt a historic feat by one of the best players in NBA history. However, if Bryant is unable to lead this talented group of players to the playoffs, this Laker team will go down as one of the biggest busts in professional sports history.

4. The nation’s capital

Slowly, but surely I saw the Washington Nationals becoming a force in the National League. With the two phenoms  in Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper, the sky is the limit for this team. Harper went deep twice and Strasburg threw seven shutout innings while retiring 19 batters in a row after allowing a single to Juan Pierre.

As a sellout crowd at Nationals Park watched the two stars put on a show on Opening Day baseball in a 2-0 victory over the Marlins, could the thought of a World Series appearance prance through the minds of fans? Call me a prisoner of the moment, but right now, I am saying the Nationals will win the World Series. If these two can stay healthy, along with Washington’s solid rotation and stacked roster, baseball might see a new dynasty come of age.

5. Fantastic Four

As it stands, (1) Louisville vs. (9) Wichita State and (4) Michigan vs. (4) Syracuse. The Cardinals began the season ranked second, shared the Big East regular-season title, soared through the Big East tournament, transformed that into an overall No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament and found themselves back to the Final Four.

Syracuse started the season at No. 9, climbed as high as No. 3 in the country and then trickled all the way to 19th, but the Orange are here. Michigan started the season ranked fifth in the nation, eclipsed the No. 1 overall ranking and then lost to Indiana to end its reign atop the standings, but alas, the Wolverines are here. Wichita State had a different journey. They started the year unranked and worked their way up to as high as 15th in the country. But alas, the Cinderella Wichita State  Shockers are here.

A 9 seed vs a 1 seed and two 4 seeds will battle it out come Saturday. My pick remains the same, I have Michigan winning it all. Three legit stars in Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Glenn Robinson III with sharp shooter Nick Stauskas on the wing, and not to mention a 6’10″ 250 pound immovable object in Mitch McGrary. Besides a lack in bench scoring, this team has no glaring weakness.

Thanks for reading.

#every7days

-Kelton

Crown-of-the-helmet Ruling a Bad Decision by the NFL

Posted: March 22, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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Is Roger Goodell making the NFL safer?

In regards of the “Tuck Rule” change, it was a long time coming, but I’m sure the Raiders aren’t thinking better that than never.

The controversial rule change that has taken the league by storm is banning “crown-of-the-helmet hits outside of the tackle box.” So, basically NFL officials are saying players cannot lean forward with their helmets in the open field to take on defenders.

From Pop Warner all the way to college football, players are taught to lower their pads to either protect themselves from punishing blows or to dish out the blow.

And by players, I specifically mean running backs.

When something is embedded into your mind, into your DNA, how can you erase instincts? Altering a quarterbacks’ throwing mechanics should in no form or fashion fall into comparison of  instincts. Changing when to release the ball, the cadence of a drop back and the overall form is seen as a manual change, not mental. This almost compares to the NBA’s decision to ban flopping. “Flopping” was defined as fooling the referee to make the improper call. It increased the difficult of officiating. All in all, a smart move by the association.

Are the players protecting themselves when lowering their heads? You decide.

Are the players protecting themselves when lowering their heads? You decide.

Well, how are NFL referees to judge a running back lowering his shoulders and not the crown-of-the-helmet? Now, I’m no expert in anatomy, but I believe your head and neck is attached to your shoulders. Take the time to lower your shoulders without your head and neck and see if that is possible. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has stood for pro health and safety since he has took over the reigns, but prohibiting players from lowering their shoulders only makes them more open and accessible to big hits from 6’3″ 250 pound, ultra-athletic linebackers.

This rule change unfairly targets big, bruising backs whose style of play is to physically punish defenders. However, all running backs lower their shoulders that inevitably causes them to drop their head. Although, what about shifty tailbacks who elude defenders and avoid contact? Could they gain an advantage from this ruling?

Technically speaking, running backs like Darren Sproles, Reggie Bush, LaMichael James or C.J. Spiller could benefit from the ruling because they are runners that bounce to the outside and make people miss.But let’s face it, you can’t get around lowering your shoulders whether you’re Barry Sanders or Earl Campbell.

A 15-yard penalty and a possible fine for lowering your shoulders?

I believe Bears running back Matt Forte said it best in a tweet:

Guess I’ll get my fine money ready -Matt Forte

Or maybe free agent running back Brandon Jacobs sent a better tweet:

Get your daughters ready, because they’ll be playing football soon!!!!! – Brandon Jacobs

-Kelton

The Truth Behind “Winners and Losers” in NFL Free Agency

Posted: March 15, 2013 in Brooks' Sports
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Honestly, winners and losers in NFL free agency is a figment of the sports’ society imagination.

Every year, around this time, analyst, experts, columnist and whoever else deems themselves credible loves to crown the winners and losers of the free agent frenzy. While I understand the premise of doing so, I find it irrational to say team A out-performed team B solely because of out-bidding the competition.

Are the Baltimore Ravens considered “losers” because they lost multiple starters? No, every season is different. Look at the body of work by Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome, he always plans for the future, drafts well(which is most important) and build from within. What about the Miami Dolphins? They made quite the splash overpaying for a one-trick pony in Mike Wallace, although, that speed of his is one helluva trick. Miami is active in free agency, but labeling them as winners is a bit premature. No one knows how any of these signings will pan out.

Remember the  Philadelphia Eagles from years past? Or should I say the “Dream Team?”

They “won” free agency that year. But what else have they won since then? That year was a complete catastrophe,  the league’s longest tenured head  coach was fired, Michael Vick once again withered behind a leaky O-line, and the prize of free agency that year, CB Nnamdi Asomugha? Not even Verizon could help his coverage.  The Eagles are surely smarting over that wasted contract.

Even though some players enter free agency in their prime, it is almost a rarity. While I can make a compelling argument on why it’s OK for Super Bowl contenders or teams who have a two to three year window of opportunity  to sign quick fix free agents, lets face it, free agency teeters on edge of desperateness. Teams are giving eye-popping contracts to one-year wonders, veterans on the down-slope , salary-cap casualties and maybe because of other unforeseen reasons.

Here’s a stat for you, Wes Welker had the 2nd most drops in the NFL last season and the most drops in the postseason since 2008. The Broncos possibly picked up a once productive player who is on the down side of his career. Bill Belichick knew what he was doing by not giving him the money he wants and signing the underrated Danny Amendola to replace him.

The media (I also consider myself the media, sue me) has the Seahawks so-called “winning” in free agency? They are hauling in a load of players, true, but a lot of them are castoffs. The only significant signing is Percy Harvin, if he can focus on playing football. I’m not buying Cliff Avril. I believe he is a product of a beastly defensive line in Motown. I am a true believer that the sophomore slump is real. I would be crazy to tell you Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Ryan Tannehill and Russell Wilson will all have down years, but besides RGIII and the Redskins, Seattle, Miami and Indianapolis have been active in free agency. It wouldn’t surprise me if one of these teams fall off next year.

The key is building through the draft. It may not not garner as much attention as signing big name free agents, but cultivating young talent and grooming potential is how you mold an organization from the ground up. While first rounders do attract the spotlight, successful selections in the middle of the draft is what causes teams to flourish.

It’s way too early for me to say who “won” and who “loss” in free agency. Only time will tell if the money was well spent. Right now, everyone is glossing over their prized free agents like a new car off the lot.

Too bad you can’t test drive free agents. Maybe that’s what a physical is for (see Jake Long and the St. Louis Rams).

-Kelton

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