17. Miami Dolphins: Lamar Miller/RB

The Dolphins’ 2012 fourth-round pick is the reason why Miami let Reggie Bush walk right out the building. Miller has more patience, speed and has more size without giving up any quickness. The former Hurricane averaged 4.9 yards a pop on 51 carries for the season. Second year starting QB Ryan Tannehill said Miller is heads and shoulders above the running back group right now.

18. Minnesota Vikings: Cordarelle Patterson/WR

Watching film on Patterson will leave you sick to your stomach figuratively and literally. His abilities in the open field are second to none. When the ball is in his hands, it instantly becomes a punt return. However, he routinely catches the ball with his body, will have “focus-drops,” and is a below-average route runner. Besides special team, it’s hard to tell if he will have an immediate impact at the WR position. Although, with Percy Harvin traded to Seattle, Patterson may inherit a significant role.

19. New England Patriots: Aaron Dobson/WR

Another rookie wideout debuts on this list. The 6’3” 204 pound WR known as ‘Muscles’ has a knack for making the highlight reel catch. He possesses strong hands, springs implanted in his quads and attended the University of Marshall. Why does where he went to school matter? The only time Tom Brady had a premier receiver was Randy Moss. Where did he go to school? Marshall. Aren’t you glad I didn’t say Tebow?

20. New Orleans Saints: Kenny Vaccaro/S

Three rookies in a row lets you know the NFL is a “What have you done for me lately league.” The Saints statistically had the worst defense in NFL history this past season. The addition of the pompous Rob Ryan as defensive coordinator is a start, but they still have a long way to go to turn this defense around. New Orleans ranked 31st in passing defense and ranked dead last (32nd)  in rushing defense. Selecting the most coveted safety 15th overall was chosen to become the Saints defensive leader on and off the field. A tall task for a rookie.

21. New York Giants: David Wilson/RB

The former first rounder has ‘breakout’ written all over him. He was put into Tom Coughlin’s doghouse because of an ill-advised fumble in the first game of the season. After spurts of big time plays during the season including a 97-yard kickoff return, Wilson was a constant contributor down the stretch. With the departure of Ahmad Bradshaw, it’s Wilson’s job to lose.

22. New York Jets: Mark Sanchez/QB

Maybe I butt fumbled into a typo, but that actually says Mark Sanchez. Reports from camp are saying Sanchez has never had a better looking off-season, but it’s only June. Sanchez is on a short leash especially with the arrival of second-round draft pick Geno Smith. If Sanchez show the slightest sign of a decline in play, coach Rex Ryan won’t hesitate to pull Sanchez. The pressure continues to add up for the often bashed quarterback. If he doesn’t produce this year, he’ll be on the chopping block by the end of the season.

23. Oakland Raiders: Tyler Wilson/QB

Matt Flynn may get overthrown by another Wilson in Oakland, Tyler Wilson. Russell Wilson and Tyler Wilson have no relation to each other, but Flynn is probably wishing they didn’t share the same surname either. During the pre-draft process, I had Wilson as the best quarterback coming out the draft. Flynn may get the early nod, but the new regime will be tempted to put in their guy.

24. Philadelphia Eagles: Lane Johnson/OT

Big people need love too. The Eagles might have reached a bit to select Johnson with the no. 4 overall pick in the 2013 draft, but something had to be done about the blind side of whoever starts at QB for the Eagles. Michael Vick has the second most turnovers in the last two years, second to only Sanchez. Vick does hold on to the ball at times, but he needs a balanced running game and protection. Johnson was drafted to become the solution for both of those problems.

25. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jarvis Jones/OLB

It was simply unfair for Jarvis Jones to slide to the already vaunted Pittsburgh defense. ‘Sacman’ Jones was slotted to go as high a no. 2 overall, but his draft stock took a hit because of a spinal condition. In Pittsburgh fashion, they selected the fiercest pass rushing linebacker in the draft. Jones tallied 28 sacks in two season at Georgia, 14.5 in 2012-13 season. Leading sack man for the Steelers this past season was Lawrence Timmons with 6. Jones will line up opposite of Timmons on the right side to provide a fearsome tandem.

26. San Diego Chargers: Danario Alexander/WR

“If Alexander ever had healthy knees, man.” This is the ongoing story line for the gifted, but often injured wide receiver.  The 6’5” 217 pound gazelle was a freak of nature down the stretch scoring seven touchdowns in the final 10 games. He showed flashes of brilliance in St. Louis, but he never remain healthy. Alexander will enter 2013 as Rivers top target, but his knees still worry me.

27. San Francisco 49ers: Marcus Lattimore/RB

The last time the ’9ers took a running back with multiple knees surgeries in college, it worked out for them. see Frank Gore. If Lattimore was healthy, without a doubt he would’ve been the first running back off the board. San Francisco may have drafted damaged goods, but the upside was too much for them to pass up.

28. Seattle Seahawks: Percy Harvin/WR

On any day, Harvin can be the best player on the field. Hands down. He only played nine games this past season due to a high ankle sprain, then he was dealt to the Seahawks because of disputes in contract negotiations. Harvin will be used in a plethora of ways in Seattle. He is one of the top playmakers in the NFL today. The QB switch from Christian Ponder to Russell Wilson will only elevate his play on the field.

29. St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford/QB

Most would point out the most dynamic player in the draft to be the player to watch as the Rams traded up to pick Tavon Austin with the no. 8 overall pick, but what about the guy throwing him the ball? Bradford is a legitimate 6’4″, a live arm, underrated mobility and clutch in late game situations.  Now, surrounded with a young but talented receiving core and prized free agent acquisitions like Jared Cook and Jake Long, the former Heisman Trophy winner and his Rams have the potential to be the surprise team in the NFL this year.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Darrelle Revis/CB

Only playing in two games for the Jets in ’12, Revis Island has been submerged, but he know he has a lot to prove as he suits up for the Bucs’ in 2013.  Tampa Bay had the 32nd ranked passing defense giving up 297. 4 yards per game. Revis was specifically brought in to fix this whole in the secondary.

31. Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan/DE

Morgan is an absolute freak in stature. From year one to three, his sack totals have increased every season. Tennessee is normally know for having a physical defense stemming from the Jeff Fisher days, but they took a step back in ’12 ranking 27th overall. It starts with getting to the quarterback in today’s NFL and getting to the QB is in Morgan’s DNA. Expect 10+ sacks from Morgan this season.

32. Washing Redskins: Phillip Thomas/Bacarri Rambo/S

Both the Redskins rookie safeties could see significant action this season. Brandon Merriweather is a solid starter when healthy, but that’s the thing, he’s missed 20 games the past two seasons. The other penciled in starter, Reed Doughty, doesn’t possess the upside or skill set of Rambo or Thomas. The Redskins 30th ranked pass defense can also attest to the mediocre play of Washington’s safeties. Both are center-field type safeties, so it remains to be seen how both will be on the field at the same time.

Every year in the NFL, a team catapults itself into the the realm of “elites” or perhaps just a flash in the pan.  A franchise signal caller is looking to supplant himself as the quarterback of the future, a stud running back looks to carry his team on his shoulders and a rookie middle linebacker has shoes the size of King Kong to fill. No matter what the case may be, a team on the rise often has an ascending star who aims to take his team to the next level.

As future or present star players look to elevate their game, a handful of players may be under a watchful eye for other alarming reasons. For example, how will they respond after signing a lucrative contract? How will they bounce back after a severe injury? Or what about the pressure to succeed from an organization that have been giving a player chance after chance?

With the start of the regular season less than 90 days away, let’s take a look at players to watch from every team this season:

1. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Floyd/WR

Floyd didn’t jump off the screen or have over the top numbers as a rookie last year for the Cards’, but with the addition of Bruce Arians and newly acquired quarterback Carson Palmer, Floyd is poised for a breakout season playing along side all-pro Larry Fitzgerald. Although, Floyd did give Arizona fans a sneak preview of what is to come hauling in 8 receptions, 166 yards and a touchdown during the last game of the season. Getting the ball to Floyd has been a vocal point this offseason as Arians’ installs his aerial attack.

2. Atlanta Falcons: Osi Umenyiora/DE

How can a 31 year old defensive end be considered as a player to watch? Simple. The Falcons see themselves as a team on the breakthrough. They were only a completion away from advancing to the Super Bowl. Atlanta is a few puzzle pieces away from putting it all together. Umenyiora will immediately step in and fill the void left by John Abraham. The veteran edge rusher was a rotational player whose roll was decreased in favor of Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck. Look for Umenyiora to amass the double-digit sack total plugged in as a full-time starter.

3. Baltimore Ravens: Joe Flacco/QB

Yes, Flacco was “elite” last season. Yes, Flacco beat Tom Brady and Peyton Manning in back-to-back weeks in the postseason. Yes, he was the Super Bowl MVP. But with six new starters on the defensive side of the ball and Anquan Boldin playing for the other Harbaugh, the $120.6 million dollar man has to show he’s worth every single penny. Flacco is known for putting up average numbers during the regular season at best. A slow start will cause fans to get a bit antsy and question his lofty contract if they haven’t already.

4. Buffalo Bills: Da’Rick Rogers/WR

The undrafted rookie out of Tennessee Tech has the prototypical build to be a no. 1 wide receiver. Rogers is also a former  Tennessee Volunteer who was kicked off the team his during his sophomore year for drug related issues. Robert Woods, who was the Bills 2nd round pick this past draft, has been receiving all the accolades this offseason. If Rogers can keep his head on straight a stay out of trouble, Rogers, Woods and the Bills other rookie wideout, Marquise Goodwin, can become a prolific core.

5. Carolina Panthers: DeAngelo Williams/RB

In the 2011 season, the Panthers were the no. 3 rushing team in the NFL. Williams only appeared in 6 games that season due to a season ending injury. Since his career year in 2008 when Williams rushed for 1,515 yards and 18 touchdowns, he hasn’t had a 1,00 yard season since 2009. However, this statistic is a bit misleading. Injuries have played its part, but also because of splitting duties with Jonathan Stewart and Mike Tolbert, and not to mention Cam Newton scrambling out the backfield. With 6th round pick in RB Kenjon Barner out of Oregon and Williams who is now at the death sentence age for a running back at 30, Williams time may come to an end soon in Carolina.

6. Chicago Bears: Jon Bostic/MLB

Bostic was a force a middle linebacker for the Florida Gators last season. He is a downhill linebacker who attacks running lanes, has great instincts and is a vocal leader. James Anderson, Lance Briggs and D.J. Williams are slotted as the starters for now, but Bostic may be next in line as another all-time great MLB for the Bears.

7. Cincinnati Bengals: Dre Kirkpatrick/CB

After dealing with a knee injury for much of the 2012 season, his rookie season I may add, the Bengals placed their former 1st round pick on injury reserve Christmas Day. He appeared in 5 games and totaled 4 tackles. The talented corner out of Alabama still has a lot to prove as he’s essentially still a rookie. Cincinnati re-signed CB Terrance Newman to 2-year deal in April which shows a lack of faith in Kirkpatrick. Newman thrived under Mike Zimmerman’s system in WHODEY land while he was lined up opposite of Pro Bowl corner Leon Hall. If Kirkpatrick can remain healthy, this has the making of an intriguing camp battle.

8. Cleveland Browns: Jordan Cameron/TE

The 6-foot-5 inch 3rd year tight end out picked the perfect time to catch the coaches attention. The departed Ben Watson and Alex Smith is a good indication that Cameron has the inside track to start this season. Now working with the likes of Norv Turner as the offensive coordinator, who coached Pro Bowl TE Antonio Gates in San Diego, Cameron is due for a career year in Turner’s system.

9. Dallas Cowboys: Tony Romo/QB

A lot like my theory on Flacco, but for opposite meanings. Yes, because of the outrageous amount of money lauded to him, but specifically because of his on-field performance. Did Jerry Jones pay him because of potential? That can’t be it, he’s an 11-year veteran at the age of 33. The end results of Romo’s regular season stats almost always ensure a successful season, but he constantly shows up small in big time moments and will regularly have multi-interception games. $108 million to a quarterback with one playoff win and no Super Bowl appearances? This explains why the Cowboys drafted a late-round center in round one.

10. Denver Broncos: Montee Ball/RB

The first thing the Broncos thought of when they drafted Ball was Terrell Davis. Ball was a touchdown machine at Wisconsin crossing the endzone 77 times in 4 years. He is a perfect fit for the Broncos’ zone blocking scheme. Peyton Manning and his host of receivers will command all the attention which open up running games for the former badger. The recent release of Willis McGahee further cements Ball peeking rookie campaign.

11. Detroit Lions: Ziggy Ansah/DE

I was torn between Ansah and Nick Fairley as the Lions’s player to watch. Ansah experienced an extreme spike in his stock on draft day which led him to become the no. 5 overall selection in the draft. This Ghanaian-born player is still learning how to play the game of football. He was even reported putting his pads on backwards during a game. The massive push created by Ndamukong Suh and Fairley up the middle will create one-on-one opportunities for Ansah on the outside edge.

12. Green Bay Packers: Both Packers’ rookie running backs

Eddie Lacy and Jonathan Franklin will finally provide the Packers and Aaron Rodgers with much needed balance on offense. Rodgers was sacked a league-high 51 times last season. He had 2 rushing TDs, which was woefully tied for first on the Packers, and he was second on the team in rushing yards (259). Running back Alex Green led the Packers in rushing with 464 yards. Lacy and Franklin are only in competition with themselves.

13. Houston Texans: Matt Schuab/QB

My issue with Schaub is that he’s just good, not great. He doesn’t belong in the same breath as Peyton, Drew Brees, Tom Brady or Rodgers. Beating the Bengals in back-to-back postseason appearances is hardly a credible achievement considering how they were trounced by the Patriots. If Schuab doesn’t succeed in 2013, it might be time for the Texans to look for his replacement.

14. Indianapolis Colts: Coby Fleener/TE

I expected a TE to shine for the Colts last season, and one did, it just wasn’t Fleener. The Colts’ 3rd round pick, Dwayne  Allen proved to be much more NFL ready as he was more of a blocker and possessed more physicality at the line of scrimmage. Fleener was Andrew Luck’s top-target at Stanford. Indianapolis envisioned the chemistry of Luck and Fleener to transfer to the NFL. Taking Fleener off the line and putting him out in space will heightened his abilities.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars:  Denard Robinson/OW

Shoelace. Robinson might not tie his, but he will break defenders ankles if they don’t tie theirs. Robinson is officially listed as a running back on the Jaguars depth chart, but like Dexter McCluster described himself, Robinson is an offensive weapon. He will line up all across the formation, in the backfield, line up at quarterback, out on the edges, in the slot, punt return, kick return, Jacksonville will make a concerted effort to get the ball in his hands as much as possible.

16. Kansas City Chiefs: Jon Baldwin

You almost have to describe Baldwin as an undersized small forward. It’s nearly impossible to jam him at the line of scrimmage, he snatches the ball out of mid air and has Randy Moss-like leaping abilities, but the former Pittsburgh Panther has virtually been a no-show in his first two season in the NFL. However, with the pass-happy Andy Reid as the new head coach along with newly acquired QB Alex Smith, Baldwin could see more balls coming his way with Dwayne Bowe on the other side.

In the 2-3-2 format, Game 3 is notoriously known as the swing game. Historically, 90 percent of the time, the Game 3 winner goes on to take home the illustrious NBA Title. This stat alone points favorably towards the Heat because of their impeccable will after defeat, hence the 33-5 run that blew the top of Game 2 in South Beach. Miami has not lost back-to-back games since the early part of January (Indiana and Portland). If you paid any attention this postseason, LeBron James and crew have dominated the third game of every series.

Miami won Game 3 in Milwaukee, Game 3 in Chicago and Game 3 in Indiana. All on the road. As the Heat begin a 3 game stint in San Antonio, how will they adjust to the Spurs adjustments? In Games 1 and 2, Coach Popovich hounded LeBron with a slew of double and triple teams to get the ball out of the hands of the MVP. It also appears that San Antonio is taking a page out of the 2007 Finals blueprint by forcing LeBron to shoot from the perimeter. He is shooting 42 percent from the field and averaging 17.5 points per game. True, LeBron is channeling most of his effort into getting his teammates involved early, corralling loose balls and rebounds and exerting energy on the defensive end (see Tiago Splitter), but you have to think sooner or later he will have to boost his scoring.

On the flip side, how does Pop adjust to the most unselfish superstar in NBA history? Do you dare to play him one-on-one and shut down everyone else? That sounds illogical, right? Is Mario Chalmers going to score 19 points again this series? Probably not.  How long will Mike Miller and Ray Allen’s hot streak from beyond the arc remain? These questions might go unanswered in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, but I’m sure Popovich can live with the Heat’s role players knocking down shots instead of LeBron.

And by the way, has anybody seen Manu Ginobili this postseason? He’s virtually a no-show buried deep within the depths of Witness Protection. Tony Parker and Tim Duncan will surely bounce back from their pedestrian performances in Game 3, but when Miami is clicking on all cylinders on the defensive side of the ball, blitzing the pick-and-roll, rotating to smother 3-point shooters and collapsing the paint on Parker, I bid San Antonio a farewell.

Game 3 winner: Miami 

Six years ago we were all a witness to the rising greatness of Lebron as he took center stage in his first Finals appearance. Now, six years later, we have probably ran out of crowning superlatives to illustrate the King.

Multiple regular season MVP awards, a Finals MVP, Olympic Gold Medals, countless All-Star appearance, 03-04 Rookie of the Year, All 1st Team this, All 1st Team that, have I left anything off the list? His unworldly abilities are somehow taken for granted at times, and that’s a mystery that will never be solved.

But one thing is for sure, LeBron would give up all of these accolades for another shot at the San Antonio Spurs.

In an article by ESPN, LeBron spoke of the bitter taste left by the hands of San Antoni at the age of 22.

“I have something in me that they took in ’07; beat us on our home floor, celebrated on our home floor, I won’t forget that. You shouldn’t as a competitor. You should never forget that.”

Back in 2007 when James was still wet behind the ears, his Cleveland Cavaliers were swept in an embarrassing fashion. The Spurs laid the perfect blueprint on how to defend LeBron by forcing him to shoot from distance. Here are LeBron’s stats from the 2007 Finals against the Spurs:

James was absolutely atrocious outside the paint in that series and at the line, but like all the great ones, he perfected his craft. LeBron averaged a career high in 3-point percentage shooting .406 from the field and he’s shooting 77 percent from the free throw line this postseason, and not to mention a developed post move.

After this whipping from the Spurs “Big 3″ and the Boston Celtics’ “Big 3,” LeBron made one of the biggest decisions of his life in 2010 by teaming up with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. Wade and Bosh haven’t been themselves lately, but this supporting cast along with the all-time leader in 3-point field goals, Ray Allen, are light years ahead of James’ cast in Cleveland that featured Drew Gooden, Daniel Gibson and Anderson Varejao. I’m almost tempted to host a “Where are They Now” segment regarding LeBron’s former teammates in Cleveland.

Fueled by revenge and his further ascent to basketball royalty, we are all about to witness one of the most prolific performances in Finals’ history.

Who do I have winning the series, as if I haven’t already tipped my hand, the Heat in 6.

Around this time last year, well, May 20, 2012 to be exact, LeBron James was further cementing himself as perhaps the greatest player of this generation.

After an implausible 19 point defeat in Game 3 to the Indiana Pacers, James put on one of the most historical performances in NBA history dropping 40 points with 18 rebounds and nine assists, and not to mention 2 blocks and 2 steals in a monumental Game 4 victory to tie the series at two games apiece.

With the series again tied at 2-2, another one of those Herculean efforts may unfold right before our eyes. Although, this is not that same Pacers team, Paul George is a rising star in this league, you would think All-Star center Roy Hibbert is Sherwin-Williams the way he’s patrolling the paint and erratic as Lance Stephenson is, the Pacers are feeding off his fearless tenacity.

How many times have you all heard James and Co.? James and the crew? James and the Heat? Countless times, I’m sure of it. Miami’s total team effort is what demoralized Indiana in Game 3 of this series as all 5 of the Heat starters scored in double digits. True, the Heat will need that kind of spirited effort again to take control of this series, but what will ultimately deliver the knock out blow to the Pacers is the resurgence of Dwayne Wade.

Wade can’t have another Game 3 pitiful and pedestrian 16 point effort if he wishes to capture his third NBA Championship. In their 2012 bout, when the Heat fell behind 61-51 in the third quarter, LeBron and Wade  put on a tag-team, superhero spectacle combining for all but two points in a 25-5 run that put Miami up 76-66. Wade finished with 30 points with 22 of the onslaught coming in the second half.

Indiana knows Miami has the best player on the planet on its team, but if the Heat show the Pacers they have two of the best players on the court on their team, Game 5 will mark the beginning of the end for the duly applauded Pacers.

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:

Vogel should apologize to his team for sabotaging their chance to win…Enormous coaching mistake…not once but twice…

— Michael Wilbon (@RealMikeWilbon) May 23, 2013

Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out?

— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) May 23, 2013

Think about it: The previous possssion proved taking Hibbert out didn’t work and HE STILL DID IT ANYWAY.

— Jemele Hill (@jemelehill) May 23, 2013

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.

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

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 or 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.

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.

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.

(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