Duncan vs Garnett

Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan are two of the best power forwards in the game. Perhaps more remarkably, even now into their late 30s they are still essential pieces on their respective teams. Garnett’s stifling defensive presence and Duncan’s well-rounded game have provided the foundation for two teams that are slowly heading into the twilight of success (the Celtics doing so more quickly than the Spurs, of course).
 
One main question that comes to mind: why isn’t this comparison made more frequently? A two-pronged explanation helps de-mystify the reason that two future Hall of Famers are not considered rivals or rarely even compared. For one, Duncan has had a remarkably more successful career in terms of championships. As you will see in my awards comparison below, Duncan owns Garnett in all of the main award categories (MVPs, Finals MVPs, and championship titles). So a comparison of legacies is not very fruitful. Second, this comparison is often not made because of the fact that scorers are the primary attraction in the NBA. Think of the main comparisons everybody from analysts to you, as an NBA fan, discuss. Kobe, LeBron, Jordan, Durant…generally people want to hear about those guys. Duncan and Garnett have a severe disadvantage here: they rely on guards to get them the ball.
 
Think of this comparison like a chance to give some attention to the guys who do the less glamorous work. In terms of individual performance, this complete comparison will acknowledge all facets of each players’ game but will try to put performances in context. Clearly Duncan has the greater legacy, but who was truly the better player?
 
Regular season statistics provide a solid foundation for the discussion and a glimpse into the fact that these two stars really are close in terms of career productivity.
 
Regular season
Kevin Garnett
Tim Duncan
Points
19.2
20.2
Rebounds
10.5
11.2
Assists
4.0
3.1
Steals
1.3
0.7
Blocks
1.5
2.2
FG percentage
.499
.507
FT percentage
.790
.691
Games played
1300
1153
 
Although they are very close in age (Duncan is a less than a month older than KG), Garnett has played in two more seasons, having been drafted as a teenager. Regardless, it’s incredible to see the equality in career output. In the above chart, Duncan and Garnett each own exactly half of the eight categories. Delving into the advanced metrics, Duncan creates a marginal separation with an edge in win shares, PER, and eFG%. So yes, even though Duncan had the reputation of a quiet guy, he put up big numbers.
 
The peaks of their careers are also quite similar. Garnett averaged 24/14/5 in 2003-04 on the Timberwolves, and Duncan averaged 26/13/4 in 2001-02. But unlike in career per game averages, in a comparison of these two seasons, Garnett has the slight edge in advanced metrics like PER and win shares.
 
As if these numbers aren’t close enough, the 02 Spurs and 04 Timberwolves had the exact same regular season record, at 58-24. Moreover, both teams had top-10 offenses and defenses although the Bruce Bowen led the Spurs to one of the (top-five) best defenses in the NBA. Ironically, both lost in the playoffs to the Los Angeles Lakers but KG’s T’wolves actually made it one round further overall. Even in terms of player personnel, both were similar although the Timberwolves were anchored by an aging Sam Cassell at point and the Spurs had a promising rookie point guard, Tony Parker. Both even took home MVP honors during these peak statistical seasons. Regular season performances of these all-time greats were nearly identical.
 
Playoffs
Kevin Garnett
Tim Duncan
Points
19.5
22.3
Rebounds
11.0
12.1
Assists
3.5
3.4
Steals
1.3
0.7
Blocks
1.4
2.5
FG percentage
.476
.501
FT percentage
.787
.679
Games played
125
190
 
For completeness, a look at the playoffs is necessary. Here, as common knowledge would indicate, Tim Duncan owns Garnett. In 65 more games played, Duncan’s body of playoff work is complete and he has proven that he can provide the foundation for players to succeed when it matters most. As Spurs coach Greg Poppavich said, “Tim is the common denominator…He’s [had] a different cast around him [in] ’99, ’03 and ’05. He’s welcomed them all. He’s found a way to help them all fit, feel comfortable in their roles, and not many players can do that.” The same cannot be said for Garnett, whose lone championship run was anchored by Paul Pierce for the most part.
 
And as mentioned earlier, the award comparison strongly favors Duncan. (But nobody is debating that Duncan has a greater legacy.)
 
Awards
Kevin Garnett
Tim Duncan
Championships
1
4
Finals MVPs
0
3
Regular season MVPs
1
2
Defensive Player of the Year
1
0
Rebounding titles
4
0
All Star appearances
15
14
 
The point is that Duncan has played on better teams. While Garnett has made helped some Timberwolves teams succeed, Duncan has had the luxury of playing with complementary players like David Robinson, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili. In 2002-03, for example, the next highest Timberwolves scorers were the potent Wally Szczerbiak, Troy Hudson, and Rasho Nesterovic. Not only that but from 1996-2007, the Timberwolves had five 50-win seasons. In Duncan’s 15 full seasons as a Spur, San Antonio has won less than 50 games only once.
Thanks Ryan
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by ryan55 on April 17, 2013  •  Permalink
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NBA Aussie Style’s Mock Draft

An NBA draft is an extremely hard thing to predict. Most people do not have insiders information and are just doing it as they see it. Here are my predictions.
*Draft order based on current standings

1. Charlotte Bobcats – Nerlens Noel 6’11″ Kentucky PF/C

The Charlotte Bobcats are in a terrible situation. They are one of the worst teams in basketball history and do not even look like improving at the moment, but that could all change. The addition of Nerlens Noel would be a long term solution to this problem and despite the fact that he is out for at least the first half of next season, he will be a great long term addition, look at Blake Griffin for the Clippers as an example of how this can work. With many of the prospects stock sliding during March Madness, it seems Noel’s injury could be a blessing in disguise. A Bobcats team with a cornerstone of Kemba Walker, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Nerlens Noel looks like one that could challenge in the future.

2. Orlando Magic – Ben McLemore 6’5″ Kansas SG

Ben McLemore is arguably the safest pick in this whole draft. He has been outstanding all year for the Kansas Jayhawks, averaging 15.9 points per game and 5.2 rebounds. Even though the Magic already have Arron Afflalo at the 2 Guard position, McLemore would be a nice upgrade. Drafting the efficient McLemore would allow the Magic to use Afflalo as an impact player off the bench, a position he played brilliantly with the Denver Nuggets. McLemore has long been projected to be a top 3 pick, even number 1, but his disappointing performance against Michigan did hurt his stock. Tends to go missing in the clutch, but could well be the best prospect of this draft.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers – Otto Porter 6’8″ Georgetown SF

The Cleveland Cavaliers need a small forward. Otto Porter is the best small forward in this draft. The two are a nice match. Porter has been lighting it up this year for Georgetown and is the most well-rounded prospect in this draft. The small forward averages 16.2 PPG and 7.1 RPG, whilst also being one of the best defenders in this class. He has shot 48% from the field for Georgetown this year and is a high impact player. Could develop into one of the best rebounding small forwards in the game. With Kyrie Irving, Dion Waiters and Otto Porter, the Cavs should be primed for a playoff push not only next year, but in years to come.

4. Phoenix Suns – Marcus Smart 6’4″ Oklahoma State PG/SG

Phoenix is a team with no identity and no direction. With Goran Dragic the only player that does not need serious upgrading, selecting the best available player seems like the best option for the Suns. Marcus Smart is an athletic combo guard who is a good decision maker and a natural leader. He is a brilliant defender for a guard, one of the best in this class. Although naturally he is a point guard, he has all the fundamentals of a shooting guard and with improved shooting, could become a great combo guard.

5. Detroit Pistons – Victor Oladipo 6’5″ Indiana SG/SF

Victor Oladipo is an outstanding athlete and a great defender. He is a beautiful finisher at the rim and can slash most defences, can hold the best offences and can hit an open jump shot. He is still raw with his outside game and his jump shot doesn’t always fall, but for the high-energy leadership he provides, Detroit would be stupid not to take him. Oladipo would be a great upgrade from Rodney Stuckey.

6. New Orleans Hornets – Trey Burke 6’0″ Michigan PG

Trey Burke may just be the best player in this draft. He has the best assist to turnovers percentage in the nation and can hit a jumper with ease. He is one of the best facilitators in the nation, but can also step up and go himself when necessary. Burke has a smooth release and an easy shot, allowing him to be cool in the clutch, as evident against Kansas in the NCAA Sweet Sixteen where Trey hit a clutch three to tie the game and send it into overtime. A solid defender and also a good dasher, if he were a little taller, he would be a much bigger prospect. Despite New Orleans already having Greivis Vasquez, Burke would be a much better long term point guard for the improving Hornets.

7. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Toronto) - Cody Zeller 6’11″ Indiana PF/C

Cody Zeller has seen his draft stock fall recently, with Syracuse’s defence completely smothering Zeller’s effectiveness. But the upside of Zeller is what OKC will be looking at and it is better than the other centre options remaining (Len, Olynyk, Plumlee).  He is very good in the post, can run the floor well for a big man and can find his way to a layup with ease. Needs to improve his rebounding, but brings back memories of a young Brook Lopez. Will get solid minutes behind Kendrick Perkins and could develop into a nice piece for the Thunder.

8. Sacramento Kings - Michael Carter-Williams 6’6″ Syracuse PG

Michael Carter-Williams has been brilliant throughout the Big Dance, leading the Syracuse Orange to the Final Four. He is a true point-guard with the size and vision to make it in the big league. He handles ball very well, defends like a pro and gets to the rim nicely. Would be a good addition to a Sacramento team lacking leadership and direction. The inclusion of Carter-Williams would allow the Kings to bring Isaiah Thomas off the bench as an impact player or spot-up shooter, a position that would suit him nicely.

9. Minnesota Timberwolves - Anthony Bennett 6’7″ UNLV SF/PF

Anthony Bennett was projected to be a top-5 pick before the NCAA Tournament, but with UNLV’s early exit, his stock has fallen. He has a nice inside game, complemented by a smooth outside game. Bennett is a solid rebounder for his size and has nice range with his 3-Point shot. He plays Power Forward, but is only Small Forward size. We have seen this go horribly wrong before, I’m looking at you Michael Beasley, and this is why some of the higher teams will avoid Bennett. The Timberwolves already have solid starters in all positions, so they can afford to take a risk on the high-reward Bennett.

10. Washington Wizards - Shabazz Muhammed 6’6′ UCLA SF

Shabazz Muhammed is an intriguing prospect. Once viewed as the top prospect of this draft, his stock has fallen drastically. In UCLA’s first match of the NCAA tournament, Shabazz did score 20 points, but hit just 6 from 18 from the field, including 0 from 6 from beyond the arc! Muhammed is a volume scorer who will go missing some days and will score 30 others. He already has an NBA ready build and will never not play hard. Concerns about his rebounding, defending and passing have caused his stock to slip, but he could still form a great scoring wing combination at Washington with Bradley Beal. If Muhammed is on the board when the Wizards are selecting, they’ll have no hesitation in taking him.

11. Philadelphia 76ers – CJ McCollum 6’3″ Lehigh PG/SG

CJ McCollum is an energetic shooting guard who can take the reins of the Point if need be. He is a little undersized for a 2-Guard, but his nice rebounding makes up for that. He is the purest scorer in this class, using his basketball IQ to create open shots and to get himself to the basket. Does need to improve from beyond the arc, but that will come in time. The 76ers could use some life off the bench, and CJ McCollum can provide them with that.

12. Portland Trail Blazers - Alex Len 7’1″ Maryland C

Alex Len’s stock has risen throughout the season, to the point where he could be a top 10 draft pick. But if he is not, and he is still available when Portland are selecting, they should have no trouble selecting the Maryland Centre. Len is an old fashioned centre, one that can score points in the paint fluently, as well as rebounding and blocking shots regularly. With Portland’s troubles at the Centre position, Alex Len seems like a nice selection. With Damian Lillard there to distribute to him, Len would be able to contribute handy points as well as solid defence.

13. Dallas Mavericks – Kelly Olynyk 7’0″ Gonzaga PF/C

The Dallas Mavericks need a new centre. With Chris Kaman’s one year deal expiring, the next best centre they have is Bernard James. Olynyk is an athletic player who can score in the paint well. He is a good rebounder and  a solid defender who can also hit a jump shot and run the floor. Olynyk may not be the interior presence that is needed of a centre, so may end up being a long term stretch Power Forward, but Dallas should be willing to take that risk.

14. Phoenix Suns (from LA Lakers)  - Mason Plumlee 6’11″ Duke PF/C

If the Los Angeles Lakers finish the year in 9th, their selection will be conveyed to the Phoenix Suns. After already selecting Marcus Smart earlier in the draft, the Suns will try to select a big man to partner Marcin Gortat down low. Mason Plumlee is a solid Power Forward who can score in the paint and grab rebounds at will. One of the best players in this draft in the post, he can score freely over both shoulders from this position. Plumlee also excels at grabbing offensive rebounds and has an NBA ready body. The Suns will hope to start him in his first year.

Bolters
These players could find their way into the Lottery, if one of these teams particularly has their eye on them.

Isaiah Austin 7’0″ Baylor PF/C
Austin is an intriguing prospect. He is a 7 footer who is more comfortable on the perimeter than in the post. He can still take rebounds, but his position at the highest level is unclear. Needs to develop a Post Game if he is to be a successful stretch 4. One of the most interesting prospects in recent years who needs to add bulk before being an NBA starter.

Glenn Robinson III 6’6″ Michigan SF
GR3 is one of the brightest prospects in this draft, he can run the floor, hit a three and can hit a conjested shot. He is explosive and has a brilliant basketball IQ. Robinson III is still very raw, but is the sort of player a team such as the Blazers or the Mavericks would take a punt on.

James Michael McAdoo 6’9″ North Carolina SF/PF
McAdoo was projected to be a top 5 prospect heading into the 2012-13 collegiate season, McAdoo’s stock has dropped significantly. He is a talent though, he can defend both forward positions, can rebound nicely and is a solid scorer. Concerns still remain over his ability to create his own shot and get others involved, but McAdoo would be a steal for any of the non-lottery bound teams.

Well, there you have it, this is our Mock Draft,
Yours in Basketball,
elliott03.

 

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by elliott03 on April 3, 2013  •  Permalink
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The NBA’s 10 Best Current Home Uniforms.

It’s been a while since we posted an article, but with the Playoffs approaching, we felt an article was necessary.
I will start off with the 10 Best Current Home Uniforms.

10. Oklahoma City Thunder

There is nothing to exciting or unique about the Thunder’s home uniform, but it just works.  Maybe it’s the white base with the Sky blue, orange and yellow flair, but something on this jersey just clicks. No one else in the league uses this electric colour scheme, but the Thunder manage to pull it off. This jersey is simple and effective.

9. Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets jersey shouldn’t work. With sky blue, yellow and white the three colours, this jersey shouldn’t look as cool as it does. But it does. The way ‘NUGGETS’ is written looks very classy, with the yellow and black lining on the lettering, with a matching number. The trimming suits this jersey perfectly and really highlights the white. Despite this, the sky blue, yellow and white is a boring colour scheme, with that being the reason this jersey didn’t rank higher.

8. Orlando Magic

Jameer Nelson Jameer Nelson #14 of the Orlando Magic brings the ball upcourt against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the game on November 11, 2009 at Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

All Orlando jersey’s are some of the best in the league and this is no exception. The pinstripes make this jersey look classy and sheikh. The trimming is suitable and helps the uniform to get that classy look. The lettering and number both suit this jersey to perfection, adding a little colour to an otherwise white jersey. The only criticism is the bland colour scheme, with a little more blue variety required to make this a top 5 jersey.

7. San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio have been wearing this uniform since the beginning of time. Okay, so maybe not that long, but their jersey doesn’t change a lot. The classic colour scheme of white, black and grey can never go wrong, making the jersey look very slick. This jersey would be a little bland, but the classic Spur in place of the ‘U’ just adds a magical feel to this jersey. Add some Big 3 brilliance and you get one of the best uni’s in the NBA.

6. Utah Jazz

The Utah Jazz jersey is innovation at it’s best. Whether it be the ‘J’ made into a musical note, the Navy, Green and Yellow colouring system or the 3-dimensional numbers, they just seem to work.
These jerseys go underrated in the league, with the Jazz having limited success of late, but if the Salt Lake City based team go into championship contention, expect these jerseys to be very popular.
The numeral on the uniform not adding any excitement or flavour to the jersey is this brilliant uni’s only downfall.

5. Portland Trail Blazers

The Trail Blazers home uniform is awesome.
With the slanted writing, neat number and cool slanted horizontal stripes, it just works.
The red, black and white colour scheme just works, with the unique touch of the  red and black stripe adding flavour to this appealing uniform.
Portland have rarely changed this jersey throughout their time and rightfully so!
Without a doubt one of the best in the NBA, Portland got it right.

4. Los Angeles Clippers

The LA Clippers uniform is classy in every way. The blue font on the ‘Clippers’ looks extremely stylish presented with a red outline. It is slanted nicely to give a nice difference to the bold red number. The trimming of this jersey is a top class job, as a blue or red outline would make the jersey overpowered, but the plain white looks very cool. The neck is unusual in the NBA, the only jersey with it, but it does look good, add the LAC just below it and this jersey is special.

3. Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers jersey holds the most tradition of any jersey in the NBA. Many stars of this league from Wilt Chamberlain & Magic Johnson to  Jerry West & Kobe Bryant have worn this jersey with pride.  But beyond the tradition, this is just an all round great jersey. The yellow, purple and white go beautifully together and the basic nature of the jersey really works. The trim for the neck and shoulders is second to none, whilst the font is very nice. The purple stripe down the side of the jersey is a nice touch also. A great jersey.

2. Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls home uniform is much like the Lakers, in the tradition it holds. But this uni goes further than the Lakers. The large red font on the jersey, with a slight black outline is truly marvelous. The trimming on the jersey, with red, black and white is plain, but it just works. The red diamond on the shorts, with a black outlining is a very nice touch, with the bull in the middle adding character. This jersey was made by the likes of Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen, with some people saying that it was just the players making it nice, that it wasn’t a good jersey, but if it can look good on Joakim Noah, it can look good on anyone.

1. Brooklyn Nets

The best home uniform in the NBA also happens to be the newest. With many predictions on what this jersey was going to be like, Jay-Z and the team at the Nets produced one for the ages. The basic structure of this uni is what makes it stand out. As we covered with the San Antonio Spurs, the Black and White colour scheme never fails, but Brooklyn have taken it a step further. The trimming is very clean, with the ‘V-Neck’ adding to the already classy look. The font is excellent and is matched perfectly by a slightly larger number. On the shorts, a small Brooklyn logo is all that is required, not giving it a ‘try-hard’ feel. This uniform works on every level.

Well, that’s all from me today. I hope you enjoyed this article and I look forward to more in the near future.

Yours in Basketball,

Elliott03. 

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by elliott03 on March 29, 2013  •  Permalink
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Interesting New Basketball Analysis

Now, as you may have picked up by the nature of some of my blog posts, I’m a big fan of statistics, I try not to be to technical with them but I definitely think they are very useful for determining a players skill, utility or value on a team. When I saw this new analysis, I new I had to share it.

Go to the article

I’ll let the article explain, but basically, a statistician and basketball fan at a data visualization has taken the box score of hundreds of basketballers and determined 13 new positions which better determine a players play style on the court, and help coaching staff to better organize their playbooks and rosters. By making sure to have players of all specific spots, a team can better organize the team and get the best out of their roster.

Its interesting to see how players such as Rajon Rondo and Shane Battier have so much in common whereas Derrick Rose and Tony Parker, both Point Guard players, are miles apart.

If I were to categorize myself to one of these play styles, I would have to split between ‘Scoring Rebounder’ and ’3-point Rebounder’. Its probably a bit late for NBA 2K13, but I would love to see this sort of category when creating a ‘my player’ and for roster-building purposes in a ‘season’ game mode in future installments of the NBA 2K franchise.

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by The Skeptical Teenager on September 9, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by The Skeptical Teenager on September 9, 2012

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Team of the Week – Olympics

Carmelo Anthony Shoots

Once the NBA season is underway, I will be naming a ‘Team of the Week’ each week, with the best player of that week and why. This will be the first edition and it will be for the Group Stage of the Olympic Games so far.

Point Guard
Patrick Mills (Australia)
Mills has been in fine form for Australia, leading the points scoring tally alongside Luis Scola. Mills has scored 90 points this Olympics so far, averaging 22.5 points per game. He has been Australia’s go-to man on offence, with his ability to set up and also score himself. Mills has a brilliant ability to get through the defense and create his own shot. This has been utilised beautifully by the Boomers. He stamped his authority in the first match against Brazil, as he challenged the Brazilian’s zone game and kept Australia in the play offensively and defensively in what could have been a big win for the South Americans.

Shooting Guard
Manu Ginobili (Argentina)
Ginobili has been  outstanding for Argentina so far these games, averaging 21 points per game and leading the steals with 2.5 per game. The San Antonio Spurs shooting guard has been the main player that the Argentine’s have looked for in attack and has set up many plays with his excellent passing game, as well as going himself. He has been easily the standout #2 with players such as Kobe Bryant and Nicholas Batum not having their best games. Look for Ginobili to be a pivotal part of Argentina’s game plan in the finals.

Small Forward
Carmelo Anthony (USA)
‘Melo has been in red-hot form coming off the bench for the USA, averaging 20.5 points per game. After scoring 37 points in 14 minutes, Anthony has established himself as one of the greatest Olympic basketballers ever! He may not be the greatest defender, but when you can score like that, who needs defense? ‘Melo has been Team USA’s main shooter from beyond the arc and has not disappointed, shooting at a remarkable 64%! Expect Carmelo to get even better during the knockout stages.

Power Forward
Luis Scola (Argentina)
Scola is the equal leading point scorer so far with Patty Mills, with 90 points in 4 games. Scola is Argentina’s most important factor in getting a medal, because he can single-handedly win a game off the back of his shooting. He can shoot from just about anywhere, including down low, a great quality in a power forward. He has also proven that he can get opposing players in foul trouble this Olympics, which will be key against teams like Spain and the USA.

Centre
Yi Jianlian (China)
The Chinese’s best player has once again proven that China can adapt to ‘life without Yao.’ Yi had a brilliant start to these games, scoring 30 points against the Spanish team. He hasn’t been in such red-hot scoring form since then, but on the defensive end, Yi has been the star of this team. He is averaging 2 blocks per game and 9.2 rebounds per game, an outstanding effort for a man who is also China’s attacking focal point! Yi has provided great leadership to a young Chinese team and has been the best centre so far these games.

B-Team
PG Tony Parker (France)
SG Alexey Shved (Russia)
SF Andrey Kirilenko (Russia)
PF LeBron James (USA)
C Salah Mejri (Tunisia)

Yours in Basketball,

Elliott03.

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by elliott03 on August 6, 2012  •  Permalink
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London Olympics Starting Line-Ups for each nation.

Patrick Mills of Australia shoots, whilst Frenchman Nicholas Batum defends.

The following is the starting teams for each nation and the predicted group outcomes. Usual power-houses the USA, France and Spain all have good teams once again, with teams such as Argentina, Australia and Brazil also having strong squads.

Group A

Argentina
PG Pablo Prigioni (8) New York Knicks
SG Manu Ginobili (5) San Antonio Spurs
SF Carlos Delfino (10) Milwaukee Bucks
PF Luis Scola (4) Phoenix Suns
C Juan Pedro Gutierrez (9) Obras Sanitarias

Prediction: Will fight for second with France in this company. Bronze medalists.

France
PG Tony Parker (9) San Antonio Spurs
SG Nicholas Batum (5) Portland Trail Blazers
SF Mickael Gelabale (15) BC Khimki
PF Boris Diaw (13) San Antonio Spurs
C Ronny Turiaf (14) Los Angeles Clippers

Prediction: Game against Argentina will determine second.

Lithuania
PG Mantas Kalnietis (5) BC Zalgiris
SG Martynas Pocius (7) Real Madrid Baloncesto
SF Jonas Maciulis (6) Panathinaikos B.C.
PF Linas Kleiza (11) Toronto Raptors
C Jonas Valanciunas (14) Toronto Raptors

Prediction: Should progress, albeit in fourth.

Nigeria
PG Tony Skinn (4) Ironi Ashkelon
SG Chamberlain Oguchi (9) Panteras de Miranda
SF Al-Farouq Aminu (7) New Orleans Hornets
PF Ike Diogu (6) Capitanes de Arecibo
C Alade Aminu (14) Élan Chalon

Prediction: Worst team in London, last.

Tunisia
PG Marouan Kechrid (8) US Monastir
SG Mourad El Mabrouk (7) Ezzahra Sport Rades
SF Macram Ben Romdhane  (12) Etoile Sportive du Sahel
PF Mohamed Hdidane (9) Stade Nabeulien
C Salah Mejri (15) Etoile Sportive du Sahel

Prediction: Will beat only Nigeria.

U.S.A
PG Chris Paul (3) Los Angeles Clippers
SG Kobe Bryant (10) Los Angeles Lakers
SF Kevin Durant (5) Oklahoma City Thunder
PF LeBron James (6) Miami Heat
C Tyson Chandler (4) New York Knicks

Prediction: First in this group. Gold medalists.

Group Standings
1. USA 5-0
2. France 3-2
3. Argentina 3-2
4. Lithuania 3-2
5. Tunisia 1-4
6. Nigeria 0-5

Group B

Australia
PG Patrick Mills (5) San Antonio Spurs
SG Joe Ingles (7) FC Barcelona Regal
SF Brad Newley (8) Valencia BC
PF Matthew Nielsen (14) BC Khimki
C David Anderson (13) Mens Sana Basket

Prediction: After beating France in a lead-up game, the Australians look good chances to get through this group.

Brazil
PG Marcelinho Huertas (9) FC Barcelona Basquet
SG Leandro Barbosa (10) Indiana Pacers
SF Marcus Vinicius (14) CR Flamengo
PF Anderson Varejao (11) Cleveland Cavaliers
C Nene Hilario (13) Washington Wizards

Prediction: The experience of this strong team will get them through a tough group.

China
PG Liu Wei (5) Shanghai Sharks
SG Sun Yue (9) Beijing Olympians
SF Zhu Fangyu (8) Guangdong Southern Tigers
PF Yi Jianlian (11) Dallas Mavericks
C Wang Zhizhi (14) Bayi Rockets

Prediction: A big-bodied team that could cause an upset in London.

Great Britain
PG Andrew Lawrence (5) College of Charleston
SG Kyle Johnson (14) APOEL
SF Luol Deng (9) Chicago Bulls
PF Joel Freeland (11) Portland Trail Blazers
C Robert Archibald (10) CAI Zaragoza

Prediction: Will go out in the first round, with Deng the only offensive threat.

Russia
PG Anton Ponkrashov (14) CSKA Moscow
SG Alexey Shved (4) Minnesota Timberwolves
SF Andrei Kirilenko (15) Minnesota Timberwolves
PF Viktor Khryapa (10) CSKA Moscow
C  Timofey Mozgov (5) Denver Nuggets

Prediction: Have a good team, sleepers in this group. Will progress.

Spain
PG Jose Calderon (8) Toronto Raptors
SG Juan Carlos Navarro (5) Barcelona Basquet
SF Rudy Fernandez (7) Real Madrid Baloncesto
PF Pau Gasol (4) Los Angeles Lakers
C Marc Gasol (13) Memphis Grizzlies

Prediction: Unbeaten in this group, but will lose to USA. Silver medalists.

Group Standings
1. Spain 5-0
2. Brazil 3-2
3. Australia 3-2
4. Russia 2-3
5. Great Britain 1-4
6. China 1-4

I predict that Team USA will defeat Spain in the gold medal match 87-81. Spain will fight it out and cause trouble for scorers such as KD and LeBron when USA is on attack, but the USA’s quality of player will ultimately out class the Spanish ‘Big Four’ of Jose Calderon, Serge Ibaka and the Gasol brothers. In the third place playoff, Argentina will get revenge on losing to France in the group stage and will take home the Bronze medal. The frontcourt will out-muscle the French and the Argentinian defence will not let Tony Parker run the show as fluently as he would like. Argentina 78-72.

Well, there it is. Every starting line-up for London and group predictions.

Yours in Basketball,

Elliott03.

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by elliott03 on July 29, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by elliott03 on July 29, 2012

http://nbaausstyle.wordpress.com/2012/07/29/london-olympics-starting-line-ups-for-each-nation/

Rockets Projections

Hello Basketball fans, Jack writing,

As you know, its off-season, so its time for the projections, here’s my next one in a long line of projections.

The rockets have been sitting stationary for the last few years, not going well enough to make the playoffs, and not bad enough to get into the lottery and have a shot at a good draft spot. For the last 3 years, the Rockets have had the best win record of all the teams who didn’t make the playoffs. I commend them, because they have hung in there and haven’t tanked a season to get a good draft spot, they have kept fighting but have failed each season. This year, though, they are looking like they are on the way up. Only recently have the rockets won the battle with the Knicks for star Point Guard Jeremy Lin, who rocketed, no pun intended, the Knicks into the playoffs. The Rockets management are looking for him to do the same thing with their team.

As well as Obtaining Jeremy Lin, the Rockets have held onto some players which helped them to maintain their consistently average performance. They keep their 6’7″ Guard Kevin Martin, who averaged a solid 17.1 Points per Game. They also held onto Chandler Parsons, the 6’9″ Forward who averaged 45.2% from the field in the 2012 season. Omer Asik is going to help the Forwards as a new addition to the team. These four players will be an important part of the Rockets Team going into the new season, and the Rockets performance will rely almost fully on how well the team performs. Kevin Martin and Omer Asik will be the key players on defense, and Asik will have to cover for the sometimes sloppy defense from the rest of the interior.

If Jeremy Lin performs, I would not be surprised to see the Rockets jump up a few spots to as high as 6th or 7th, maybe even 5th, if they go really well. As is the case with any Point Guard playing for the new team, Lin will have to gel well with the Rockets to get the offense started. If Lin doesn’t perform as well as he did for the Knicks, then there isn’t much hope for the Rockets, as he is going to be the cornerstone of the team going into the new season. Expect to see the Rockets make their first playoff appearance in a long time, and see them make a bit of a surprising splash in the Western conference.

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by The Skeptical Teenager on July 24, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by The Skeptical Teenager on July 24, 2012

http://nbaausstyle.wordpress.com/2012/07/24/rockets-projections/

Battle of New York

Deron Williams for the Nets.

The formerly New Jersey Nets relocating to Brooklyn has introduced a new rivalry into the NBA. The Nets have done very well this off-season, keeping Deron Williams, Brook Lopez and Kris Humphries, whilst acquiring Joe Johnson from Atlanta.

The Nets are looking better than ever this season and are looking like they will be a contender in the East. But to be the best in your conference, you have to be the best in your city. New York have one of the best frontcourts in the league featuring players such as Carmelo Anthony, Tyson Chandler and Amar’e Stoudemire, whilst Brooklyn have possibly the best backcourt in the league, with Joe Johnson and Deron Williams. With so many great players, it will be intriguing to see how this rivalry pans out.

The following will be a player verses player comparison in each position and the bench, with a prediction and an overall verdict.

Point Guard:
Deron Williams v Raymond Felton
With Brooklyn having one of the best point guards in the competition, the point here has to go the the Nets. Williams averaged 20 points and10 assists per game in 2011-12, whilst being an All-Star and being selected for the USA’s Olympic team! He is a wonderful player, with good defence to match is brilliant offence. On the other hand, Felton is truthfully a poor point guard at the best of times, with a poor shot, fading defence and struggling play making skills.

Nets 1
Knicks 0

Shooting Guard:
Joe Johnson v J.R. Smith
Johnson was a brilliant acquisition for the Knicks, as he provides experience, point scoring prowess and play making ability. He averaged 18 points per game at 45% for Atlanta in 2011-12, and with Williams by his side, he may increase that figure into the 20′s. Against the Knicks, Johnson will have a field day as Smith’s lack-luster defensive game. Whilst the inconsistent Smith can score regularly and fluently when on song, Johnson is one of the best perimeter defenders in the competition and won’t be giving any opportunities to Smith. The point here goes to the Nets.

Nets 2
Knicks 0

Small Forward:
Gerald Wallace v Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo is one of the best players in the league offensively, often scoring from the wings and the corners. He has a beautiful passing game, and sets up plays extremely well. However, Wallace is one of the best and most underrated defenders in the league, but will have to be at his very best to contain Carmelo, a man who has averaged 24.7 points per game throughout his career. The Nets did well in getting Wallace from Portland, and his offensive game should thrive alongside Williams and Johnson. But Carmelo still gets the point.

Nets 2
Knicks 1

Power Forward:
Kris Humphries v Amar’e Stoudemire
Over their respective careers, Stoudemire has obviously been extremely more influential than Humphries, but currently, it is a lot closer between the two. In the 2011-12 season, Stoudemire averaged just 17.5 points per game, 48% from the field and 7.8 rebounds, his worst numbers in six years! Stoudemire’s recurring back injury has also slowed him down and lessened his explosiveness. Stoudemire has never been a brilliant defender, but recently, this area has gotten worse. So does he beat Kris Humphries? Possibly the best at recording double-doubles in the NBA. Humphries is 27, healthy and coming off career best numbers last year, with 14 points per game and 11 rebounds per game. Humphries has a big upside. Does this mean the point goes to the Nets? No, Stoudemire’s experience and point scoring ability still better Humphries rebounds. But only half a point goes to the Knicks

Nets 2
Knicks 1.5

Centre:
Brook Lopez v Tyson Chandler
Chandler is the starting centre for Team USA in London this year. He is also one of the best defenders in the world. Lopez offensive game is very different to a normal NBA centre, as he likes to shoot from beyond 15 feet from the basket.  However, the problem with this is, Lopez shot isn’t that great and he shoots only 40 percent from this range, this figure will not be helped by Chandler’s ability to defend beyond the basket. Chandler will also cover Lopez around the rim, so scoring options for the Nets Centre look bleak. Chandler is also a better rebounder, averaging 9.9 rebounds per game to Lopez’s 4.7. Chandler will be used more on offense against the Nets than usual, because Lopez is not a great defender. Chandler will out-muscle Lopez under the basket will score highly in this New York rivalry.

Nets 2
Knicks 2.5

Bench:
This match-up is quite even, with Marshon Brooks and Reggie Evans up against Marcus Camby and Jason Kidd. In Kidd, the Knicks have an experienced bench player that will provide good leadership and will keep the offence running. Camby is a good rebounder and shot blocker who can play well in limited minutes. The Nets have a solid, high-scoring 6th man in Marshon Brooks who had a good rookie year last season, whilst Reggie Evans can provide solid minutes off the bench. Neither team has much outside of the 6 and 7 , but the Knicks still have much more depth of the bench. Point Knicks

Nets 2
Knicks 3.5

Team Chemistry:
Unselfish players provide better team players than selfish ones. Team chemistry comes down to excellent ball-movement, which you cannot achieve with a ball-hog.  Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire stop ball movement all too often, by try to go themselves or taking unnecessary risks. J.R. Smith is also selfish. Felton is mildly overweight and most of the offensive play will come from Carmelo and Stoudemire, not Felton. Anthony constantly being caught in the middle of basketball and media commitments do not help this teams chemistry either. Over in Brooklyn, the Nets look much better, with Williams one of the best pure-point guards in the NBA and Johnson is a good passer for a 2. Expect the two to gel quickly in their first season as a backcourt combination. The Nets players are all good team players, whereas this is an area for improvement for the Knicks. Point Nets

Nets 3
Knicks 3.5

Overall, the Knicks are better individually, but the Nets look as if they will fit together better as a whole. The frontcourt of the Knicks is only slightly better than the Nets, whilst the Nets backcourt is far better than their New York rivals. This year, the Nets will finish above the Knicks, because of team chemistry, the Knicks defensive lapses and an injury plagued New York team (Camby, Kidd, Stoudemire). The Nets guards will be able to set up scoring opportunities better than the Knicks and their forwards will benefit greatly. The combination of Williams and Johnson will be too good for the Knicks, unless Carmelo can score 30+ regularly. Over the regular season, I predict it will be 2 all, with both teams winning all matches at home. I predict the Nets and Knicks will finish fourth and fifth respectively in the East, but the Nets will win in the playoffs 4-2, because of the backcourt combo. It will be interesting to see how this new rivalry pans out.

Yours in basketball,

Elliott03.

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by elliott03 on July 24, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by elliott03 on July 24, 2012

http://nbaausstyle.wordpress.com/2012/07/24/battle-of-new-york/

Blake Griffin Injured

Hello basketball fans, Jack writing,

For the last week or so, the USA Olympic mens team have been training together in Las Vegas, in preparation for the Olympics in London. They have been based there for a while, training, eating and living together. But in the latest turn of events, Blake Griffin has injured his knee, which puts him in doubt for London.

Griffin took part in yesterdays practice and scrimmages without any reported issues, and seemed fine for the rest of the day. But he woke up the next morning with pains and swelling in his left knee, and was flown back to Los Angeles to be looked at by the Clippers team doctor.

It is still uncertain whether or not Griffin will make the trip to London, but it is looking like he will. Whether he will get any playing time or not, that is a different question. Anthony Davis has been called in to replace him for tonight’s game against the Dominican Republic.

This is just another injury to add to the list of stars who didn’t make the team due to health. Dwight Howard, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Derrick Rose, Chauncey Billups and LaMarcus Aldridge  are all missing out due to injuries.

Blake Griffin will probably make the trip to London, but will have to wait until further word from doctors before team manager Jerry Colangelo makes his decision on him.

Anthony Davis is one of 3 players, along with Eric Gordon and Rudy Gay, who initially didn’t make the 12-man squad, but have since been called up due to injuries.

Blake Griffin will probably make the trip over to London, but will sit out the game against the Dominican Republic as a precaution. Anthony Davis will come in to replace him against the Dominican Republic, and may make the trip over to London if Blake Griffin is unable to do so.

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by The Skeptical Teenager on July 13, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by The Skeptical Teenager on July 13, 2012

http://nbaausstyle.wordpress.com/2012/07/13/blake-griffin-injured/

Dwight Howard talks over with the Brooklyn Nets

The Nets have missed out on Dwight Howard, with talks ending between the two. It was confirmed today that the Nets would be without the star centre this season. Whether the Nets signed Howard or missed out, they would get a great centre, as they have, by resigning Brook Lopez. The Brooklyn team signed Lopez on a four year deal reportedly worth $60.8million! According to many reliable sources, the Nets are done talking with the Orlando Magic about a possible trade for Howard. The Nets needed some sort of decision on the Howard saga by Wednesday, because the Charlotte Bobcats along with other teams had interest in Lopez.

If the Nets did  get Howard, it would’ve made a brilliant ‘Big 3′ of Deron Williams, Joe Johnson and D-12 himself. It seemed that the Nets were close to signing the three time Defensive Player of the Year and he could have been signed today if Howard hadn’t relinquished his early termination option with the Magic in March.

For Howard, it looks as if he will stay in his unwanted home at Orlando. Unless the Magic are still willing to do a straight trade with the Lakers for Andrew Bynum, it seems unlikely he will move. But the Lakers do not look like giving up Bynum. The Magic once again look very one-dimensional, with no real support for Howard. It looks as if once again, the Magic will struggle to make the playoffs.

The Nets have signed Deron Williams to a long-term contract with the franchise, and are heading to Brooklyn with a great squad. They’ve added much needed firepower with Joe Johnson and a consistent performer in Gerald Wallace. Also this season they add power forwards Reggie Evans from the Clippers and exciting shooter Mirza Teletovic.

Along with these additions, Lopez must return to health to give the Nets a well rounded team. After fracturing his foot last season, he played just five games. His rebounding will also improve immensely, with Kris Humphries by his side. In the 2010-11 season, Lopez averaged 20.4 points per game and has looked like a player with potential.

The Nets may have benefited from not gaining Howard, as they get to keep players such as MarShon Brooks, Kris Humphries, Brook Lopez and many future draft picks that may have been traded for the Magic’s main man.

The Nets could still obtain Howard, but once Lopez signs his new contract, he can’t be traded until January 15. If Howard is in Orlando and not in LA, he could end up in Brooklyn.

Currently, the Nets need to focus on their own season, and what it beholds, if everything goes to plan, we may have a new title contender in the East.

Brooklyn Nets Possible Line Up
PG Deron Williams
SG Joe Johnson
SF Gerald Wallace
PF Kris Humphries
C Brook Lopez
6 MarShon Brooks
7 Reggie Evans

Orlando Magic Possible Line Up
PG Jameer Nelson
SG Jason Richardson
SF Hedo Turkoglu
PF Ryan Anderson
C Dwight Howard
6 J.J. Redick
7 Glen Davis

Yours in Basketball,

Elliott03

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by elliott03 on July 12, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by elliott03 on July 12, 2012

http://nbaausstyle.wordpress.com/2012/07/12/dwight-howard-talks-over-with-the-brooklyn-nets/

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