2014-15 NBA Thread

[MOtorboat]

Kevin Garnett has made more than $300 million.

That's the most ever by any player.

[MOtorboat]

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2014/10/23/7016279/nba-viewing-guide-2014-15-teams

[BroncoWave]

I'm pretty butthurt that Bill and Jalen could only put out 10 of the preview videos because of Bill's suspension. FU ESPN!

[MOtorboat]

I'm pretty butthurt that Bill and Jalen could only put out 10 of the preview videos because of Bill's suspension. FU ESPN!

Huh? They've only released 10. There's still a week to go...

[BroncoWave]

Huh? They've only released 10. There's still a week to go...

That's all they are releasing. Watch the end of the Pacers preview. Simmons also commented about it on Reddit. His suspension started right after they filmed those first 10, and he said, he didn't have time to film the last 20 and make them of the quality he would want before the season starts. Mostly because he's had to spend most of his time since the suspension getting ready to launch he and Jalen's new show on ESPN.

[MOtorboat]

That's all they are releasing. Watch the end of the Pacers preview. Simmons also commented about it on Reddit. His suspension started right after they filmed those first 10, and he said, he didn't have time to film the last 20 and make them of the quality he would want before the season starts. Mostly because he's had to spend most of his time since the suspension getting ready to launch he and Jalen's new show on ESPN.

Well damn. I was two away from watching the Pacers one.

[MOtorboat]

Laker exec in complete denial:

http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/11749819/los-angeles-lakers-president-jeanie-buss-defends-star-kobe-bryant


Lakers president Jeanie Buss has a message for any player who doesn't want to play with Kobe Bryant: good riddance.

"Any free agent that would be afraid to play with Kobe Bryant is probably a loser, and I'm glad they wouldn't come to the team," Buss said during a "SportsCenter" interview Thursday.

Buss was asked to comment on an ESPN The Magazine feature published earlier in the week, in which several agents and NBA personnel -- including Lakers insiders -- said that L.A. has been unable to attract top talent in free agency because players don't want to work with Bryant.

"I read the story," Buss said Thursday. "I don't agree with any of it. If there is somebody that's on our payroll who is saying things like that, I'll soon get to the bottom of it, and they won't be working for us anymore."

[MOtorboat]

http://grantland.com/features/nikola-mirotic-chicago-bulls-toni-kukoc-pau-gasol/

[MileHighCrew]

My 2 cents for this season.

LETS GO RAPTORS!!!!

[Buff]

San Antonio beats Cleveland in 6 - regular season pointless. Mods, please close and lock.

[MOtorboat]

San Antonio beats Cleveland in 6 - regular season pointless. Mods, please close and lock.

OKC in 7 over Chicago. Rested Kevin Durant wreaks havoc on NBA Playoffs.

No need to lock the thread.

[OrangeHoof]

Six months of boring half-assed shit before the playoffs begin.

[MOtorboat]

James Harden is the most interesting man in the NBA.

[MOtorboat]

Kobe and Dwight in a holdmeback fight. Awesome. Kobe called Dwight "soft" a bunch of times.

[Slick]

Dallas always play the Spurs tough. I don't think Leanord played last night. He's turned into a damn good player

[Bronco9798]

Great way to start the season!!!

5949

[MOtorboat]

I wouldn't celebrate too hard over wins against Philly.

They are purposefully tanking the entire season.

[Bronco9798]

I wouldn't celebrate too hard over wins against Philly.

They are purposefully tanking the entire season.

I'm a fan without our star player. I'll celebrate any win this year.

[MOtorboat]

I'm a fan without our star player. I'll celebrate any win this year.

That's fair. I'm a Nuggets fan, so I feel your pain.

[MOtorboat]

Russell Westbrook is OK at the sport of basketball.

[Dapper Dan]

How do the Pacers look this year? Besides injured.

[MOtorboat]

How do the Pacers look this year? Besides injured.

The Eye on Basketball guys at CBS seem to like Hibbert's performance tonight. I'd link it, but after upgrading IOS on my iPad it's been worthless. Thanks Apple.

[Dapper Dan]

The Eye on Basketball guys at CBS seem to like Hibbert's performance tonight. I'd link it, but after upgrading IOS on my iPad it's been worthless. Thanks Apple.

If you scramble around the letter in Apple, it spells Obama.

I've heard a lot about Hibbert in the offseason. I wasn't sure if he was actually improving or it was all talk. Of course, everyone in the offseason tries to improve. I'm not sure if he was implying that he was taking it to a new level or what. I know George broke his leg. Will he be back at all?

[MOtorboat]

If you scramble around the letter in Apple, it spells Obama.

I've heard a lot about Hibbert in the offseason. I wasn't sure if he was actually improving or it was all talk. Of course, everyone in the offseason tries to improve. I'm not sure if he was implying that he was taking it to a new level or what. I know George broke his leg. Will he be back at all?

I doubt George will be back.

Hibbert was fantastic during the playoff run two years ago. The Pacers need him to be that good now that George is injured and Stephenson is in Charlotte.

[Bronco9798]

How do the Pacers look this year? Besides injured.

Their line up looks odd with George, Hill, and West out. As a Pacer fan, it's a rough start to the season when Copeland and Stuckey are guys you talk about. HIbbert had a very good opening night. But, he'll get back to being soft here soon again. It's going to be a strange season. But, I'm a die hard!!! I'll be right there!!

[BroncoWave]

Memphis off to a nice 3-0 start. I don't think they've ever started off that well. They tend to start off a little slow and build over the season. I'm pretty excited for this team. The west will be tough as always, but I still see Memphis as a team that no one wants to draw in round 1.

[MOtorboat]

Gordon Heyward has 30-8-5 tonight.

[Bronco9798]

My Pacers are in for a rough year.

[MOtorboat]

Charlotte choked away a lead tonight. To the Magic of all teams.

[MOtorboat]

Forgot what pieces of shit Isaiah Thomas, Bill Lambeer and Mark Aguier were until I watched the Bad Boys 30 for 30.

What pieces of shit all three are. And Thomas is a liar.

[MOtorboat]

There's a head scratcher:

Nets send Kirilenko, a second round pick and Jorge Gutierrez to the 76ers for Brandon Davies.

[MOtorboat]

I figured it was a salary dump. Kirilenko has an expiring and Davies is signed for two more seasons. 76ers pay a little more up front to gain a roster spot next year.

[MOtorboat]

Kemba Walker takes the worst shots.

[Poet]

How much can my Celtics get for Rondo?

[MOtorboat]

How much can my Celtics get for Rondo?

A few baskets of balls, a six pack and a partridge in a pear tree.

[MOtorboat]

Seriously, though...maybe a one and a couple of pieces. Or a one, a two and a piece.

I bet they go the draft pick and expiring contract route though.

[Poet]

A few baskets of balls, a six pack and a partridge in a pear tree.

So, not much, or are you just being snarky, or both?

[MOtorboat]

Come back King. I made a bad joke...and underestimated his value...breaking...

http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/12045409/rajon-rondo-subject-boston-celtics-dallas-mavericks-trade-talks


Celtics, Mavs talk Rajon Rondo
By Mark Stein|ESPN.com

The Boston Celtics, after years of flirting with potential Rajon Rondo deals, are in substantive discussions on a trade that would send Rondo to the Dallas Mavericks, according to league sources.

Sources told ESPN.com that the Celtics and Mavericks have been discussing a swap that would furnish Boston with multiple draft picks -- including at least one future first-rounder -- as well as blossoming Mavericks center Brandan Wright and other players needed to make the salary-cap math work.

Sources say the Celtics also have been talking to teams such as the Sacramento Kings and New York Knicks about potential Rondo deals‎, but that the most advanced discussions so far have been with Dallas.

[Poet]

I saw that a little bit ago. I want that trade to happen. I love Rondo, when healthy he's a great player and actually shows up in the playoffs, unlike a lot of his other 'superior' peers. However, the time for him to depart is now. Celtics need to rebuild in the worst way.

[BroncoWave]

The Grizzlies might have just had the most impressive two days in a row in the nba this season. Ended the Warriors 16 game winning streak then went on the road the next night to beat the spurs in triple OT. What an awesome season so far!

[MOtorboat]

Rondo is a Mav.

Woj reporting Rondo and Dwight Powell for Brandan Wright, Jae Crowder, Jameer Nelson, 2015 1st and future 2nd.

[WTE]

Rondo is a Mav.

Woj reporting Rondo and Dwight Powell for Brandan Wright, Jae Crowder, Jameer Nelson, 2015 1st and future 2nd.

Just keep piling up those draft picks. Now I think Boston has 3 first rounds next year.

[Poet]

I'm happy with that trade. Not ecstatic, I hate to see the guy go, but it had to happen.

[Buff]

Did you guys see the New Republic piece on Woj? Pretty interesting...

http://www.newrepublic.com/article/120572/adrian-wojnarowski-how-basketballs-reporting-machine-gets-his-scoops

[MOtorboat]

Andre Miller: Turning it over like its 2010.

[Poet]

I just want my celtics to not suck anymore.

[MOtorboat]

I just want my celtics to not suck anymore.

Just be patient. They have several mid and late 1st round picks.

[Poet]

Just be patient. They have several mid and late 1st round picks.

We needs a staaaaaaar.

[MOtorboat]

Happy NBA Day.

[BroncoWave]

Fight! Quincy Acy kinda seems like a punk there. I didn't see anything Wall did there to set him off like that. Acy hard fouled, Wall took exception and gave him a slight shove back, then Acy, went off and elbowed him in the face.

[Poet]

Is John Wall the star that he was supposed to be?

[MOtorboat]

Is John Wall the star that he was supposed to be?

Probably not if you judge him off of pure impact he has on a team. He's not the James, Bryant, Duncan, Durant type of player that immediately lifts his team to the top of its conference.

But still, he's averaging 17-10 and he's probably the second-best pure point guard in the league this season (Behind Chris Paul and excluding Westbrook as a pure point guard).

[Poet]

Probably not if you judge him off of pure impact he has on a team. He's not the James, Bryant, Duncan, Durant type of player that immediately lifts his team to the top of its conference.

But still, he's averaging 17-10 and he's probably the second-best pure point guard in the league this season (Behind Chris Paul and excluding Westbrook as a pure point guard).

That makes me sad.

[ShaneFalco]

Present for MO for Christmas.

https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MgLzEi70_ZUOgp23NHvdmbq--t4=/1000x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2884148/oldmanblock.0.gif

[MOtorboat]

I bet that was in the second quarter.

[Poet]

I'm starting to think the kid is an incredible player. I'm biased, though.

[MileHighCrew]

anyone else watching the raptors this year!!!! Should take down the bucks tonight.

[BroncoWave]

So the top 2 teams per conference right now are the Warriors, Grizzlies, Hawks, and Raptors. Just like everyone expected! I remember a day when those were 4 of the worst teams. It's nice to start seeing a little parity in the NBA. Now I say that and it will be a Spurs-Bulls finals or some garbage like that, but I guess we'll see.

[Buff]

LOL - Andre Miller traded to Kings, reunited with Karl.

[MileHighCrew]

seems the nuggets are cleaning house.

[MileHighCrew]

The Suns were a good team this morning and they are a totally different team tonight. They had a wow day

[Buff]

seems the nuggets are cleaning house.

2-3 years overdue.


The Suns were a good team this morning and they are a totally different team tonight. They had a wow day

I liked Simmons' line about the Suns owner in Grantland's trade deadline piece:



Simmons: Bob Sarver just reenacted the christening scene in The Godfather. Steve Nash is about to get shot in the eyeglasses during a massage.

http://grantland.com/the-triangle/lightning-round-nba-trade-deadline-day-where-wtf-happens/

[MOtorboat]

LOL - Andre Miller traded to Kings, reunited with Karl.

I don't want to ever hear anyone call me crazy again because it's quite obvious Karl basically pushed Billups to the curb so he could play Miller, and somehow thought it made Denver better.

[Dapper Dan]

6974

[Poet]

I wish my Celtics weren't trying to make such a hard push for the playoffs. Just get a better draft pick. If we get the eighth seed we'll just get swept or maybe steal one game.

[Slick]

Spurs are in the groove right now. I was a little worried about a month and a half ago.

They're going to be a tough out.

[Poet]

Spurs are in the groove right now. I was a little worried about a month and a half ago.

They're going to be a tough out.

Only one team in the land stands a chance against them IMO.

[Slick]

Only one team in the land stands a chance against them IMO.

Who?

[Poet]

Who?

Batman.



Honestly I think when Curry gets to the playoffs he's going to go stone cold nuts on people. If you guys get into the Finals it's over - there is no one in the East who can get more than two games off you. Maybe the Cavs, but that's just a maybe.

[MOtorboat]

Golden State is really, really good.

[Buff]

Golden State is really, really good.

And will lose to San Antonio in the playoffs.

[Poet]

And will lose to San Antonio in the playoffs.

San Antonio ain't bout dat life.

[MOtorboat]

And will lose to San Antonio in the playoffs.

Marked down.

[Poet]

San Antonio will win it all if they don't have to play against Golden State. The East is pretty weak right now - I don't think that any East team has a shot at the title, sans maybe Cleveland if they just go off.

[Buff]

I would love to see an Atlanta vs Golden State finals. I think the Spurs veteran savvy and playoff experience wins out. Same goes for Cleveland and Lebron.

[Poet]

Curry is the magic man.

Also, Cleveland's playoff experience isn't something to write home about. How many guys outside of LeBron have done big things in the playoffs?

[MOtorboat]

I agree with Buff about the East. The Cavs win out because LeBron is LeBron and nobody else is that strong.

Disagree in the West. Golden State is a very good team. For everything Curry and Thompson do offensively, they are also one of the best defensive teams with Draymond Green and Andre Igoudala. I think they have the mix and can matchup well with the Spurs.

[dogfish]

good interview w/ paul pierce (http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/12690080/washington-wizards-paul-pierce-speaks-truth)

[BroncoWave]

Anything other than a Cleveland-Golden State finals and I will be very very surprised.

[BroncoWave]

Also, I can't ever remember a year with more players with a legitimate argument for MVP. You could make a convincing case for LeBron, Curry, Harden, AD, and Westbrook.

[Poet]

Truth be told I really want Anthony Davis to win it. That's my guy. If i had to give it to someone, I think I would go with Curry.

[BroncoWave]

I think Davis is a strong candidate. Look at the roster he just carried to the playoffs, in the western conference nonetheless.

[Northman]

All i know is Portland needs to play better. On a bit of a losing streak going into the playoffs, need to do better.

[Poet]

I think Davis is a strong candidate. Look at the roster he just carried to the playoffs, in the western conference nonetheless.

One day my Celtics will sign him.

[BroncoWave]

All i know is Portland needs to play better. On a bit of a losing streak going into the playoffs, need to do better.

As a Grizzlies fan, I disagree! :D

[Denver Native (Carol)]

All i know is Portland needs to play better. On a bit of a losing streak going into the playoffs, need to do better.


This was the year for the Portland Trail Blazers to push all their chips in. LaMarcus Aldridge was at his peak, Damian Lillard was coming into his own and the supporting cast had fallen into place. Uncertainty loomed on the horizon with three starters hitting free agency this summer, so the time was now or never.

Those pieces were falling into place. Portland raced to a 30-8 start, withstood a Robin Lopez injury, made an in-season trade for Arron Afflalo to boost an inconsistent bench and entered the second half of the year as one of the handful of teams best equipped to knock the Warriors off.

But that was before a wrong step caused Wesley Matthews to crumple into a heap on the MODA Center floor during a game against the Mavericks. The bad news came swiftly: A torn Achilles, a long recovery with free agency looming and a major setback for a team that thrived because of its continuity.

rest - http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2015/4/16/8341155/portland-trail-blazers-preview-nba-playoffs-2015

[BeefStew25]

Carol do you make it to any Nuggets games?

[Slick]

Clippers Spurs should be a good series.

[BroncoWave]

Clippers Spurs should be a good series.

Other than GS-NO, I think every series in the West will be pretty good in the first round. The East kinda looks to be a snoozefest though.

[MileHighCrew]

Playoffs started, hope the Raptors can make a run to the 2nd round at least. I'd love to see them make it to the East final

[MOtorboat]

Weird game. Neither team is shooting well, and Toronto's offense looked lottery worthy until about five minutes ago.

[MileHighCrew]

it has been an ugly game, hope the Raps can pull it out

[MOtorboat]

Doris Burke remains the second-best color analyst for NBA. She's awesome. Right behind Mark Jackson, who is just the man.

[MOtorboat]

Paul Pierce 1, Masai Ujiri 0

Dear Masai,

Shut the **** up.

[Poet]

The Celtics making it to the playoffs was a pure joke. They won the right to get spanked by Cleveland. That's all.

[Slick]

Spurs!

[BroncoWave]

This has been a pretty horrible first round so far. A bunch of 3-0 series and not a lot of close games.

[Poet]

1. John Wall is underrated and Anthony Davis is insanely good, his ceiling is so high that he could go down as an all-time great player. Good to see my UK boys playing so well.

2. San Antonio is doing what they do. It's what they does. Pop might be the best coach ever.

3. Stephen Curry at his best trumps any other player at their best right now. That's the league MVP, that's the best player in the league right now, that's the guy who is the most unstoppable.

4. There are some boring ass teams that made the playoffs.

5. My top five list is actually a top four list. #ninja

[MOtorboat]

Paul Pierce 1, Masai Ujiri 0

Dear Masai,

Shut the **** up.

Update:

Paul Pierce 3, Masai Ujiri 0

[Northman]

Portland not playing very well. :(

[BroncoWave]

Portland not playing very well. :(

Keep it up! I'll take a round 1 sweep! :D

[Northman]

Keep it up! I'll take a round 1 sweep! :D

F U..... lol

[BroncoWave]

Well North if it makes you feel any better the only real prize in this series is the chance to get smoked by Golden State in the next round.

[Canmore]

1. John Wall is underrated and Anthony Davis is insanely good, his ceiling is so high that he could go down as an all-time great player. Good to see my UK boys playing so well.

2. San Antonio is doing what they do. It's what they does. Pop might be the best coach ever.

3. Stephen Curry at his best trumps any other player at their best right now. That's the league MVP, that's the best player in the league right now, that's the guy who is the most unstoppable.

4. There are some boring ass teams that made the playoffs.

5. My top five list is actually a top four list. #ninja

Phil Jackson says hi.

[MileHighCrew]

well that sucked.....

[Poet]

Phil Jackson says hi.

Pop is by far a superior coach in terms of in-game adjustments and didn't have the benefit of coaching two different top five all-time players.

[weazel]

Playoffs started, hope the Raptors can make a run to the 2nd round at least. I'd love to see them make it to the East final

the Raptors are still in the league? I thought they moved to Shreveport or Chattanooga something... go Chattanooga Barndogs!

[Northman]

Blazers were able to stave off at least for now. Maybe we can make a run here.

[BroncoWave]

Blazers were able to stave off at least for now. Maybe we can make a run here.

Or not so much! :D

I'm not expecting much against Golden State this round, but who knows. The Grizz are always a tough out in the playoffs, so they won't make it easy.

[Poet]

You guys think Love's injury dooms them?

[BroncoWave]

You guys think Love's injury dooms them?

Even without Love, I think they make it through the East. If they go up against GS in the finals though, I would feel better about their chances with Love. I don't know that I would say not having him "dooms" them though.

[Canmore]

Pop is by far a superior coach in terms of in-game adjustments and didn't have the benefit of coaching two different top five all-time players.

Don't know that I buy that.

He just had Tim Duncan.

[Poet]

Don't know that I buy that.

He just had Tim Duncan.

Compare one all-time great to having...three or four? No one is taking Duncan over Jordan. That's not even a consideration. I doubt we remember Duncan as being greater than Kobe, either. In their prime years, yeah, I'll take Shaq thank you. Let me give you some perspective here, the fourth best player Jackson ever coached was Scottie Pippen. Pippen for several years during his career was a top five NBA player, and was certainly a top ten player for his era.

[Poet]

Even without Love, I think they make it through the East. If they go up against GS in the finals though, I would feel better about their chances with Love. I don't know that I would say not having him "dooms" them though.

I think they're doomed DooOoOOoOOoOOoOOOoooOOOOOOoooOOOOOoOOOomed

[Canmore]

Compare one all-time great to having...three or four? No one is taking Duncan over Jordan. That's not even a consideration. I doubt we remember Duncan as being greater than Kobe, either. In their prime years, yeah, I'll take Shaq thank you. Let me give you some perspective here, the fourth best player Jackson ever coached was Scottie Pippen. Pippen for several years during his career was a top five NBA player, and was certainly a top ten player for his era.

Thanks for the perspective, but I'm OK.

I'm not saying your point doesn't have validity, but none of those players could win a championship without Jackson.

By the way, I'll take Duncan way over Scottie Pippin.

[Poet]

Thanks for the perspective, but I'm OK.

I'm not saying your point doesn't have validity, but none of those players could win a championship without Jackson.

By the way, I'll take Duncan way over Scottie Pippin.

Well, you need the perspective because you're effectively arguing that Duncan equates to four other guys...

Regardless, if Jackson's crew of all-time greats couldn't win it without him, then Pop's crew of...one all-time great and a bunch of guys who were nothing close to that definitely weren't going to win much without him.

[BroncoWave]

Thanks for the perspective, but I'm OK.

I'm not saying your point doesn't have validity, but none of those players could win a championship without Jackson.

By the way, I'll take Duncan way over Scottie Pippin.

Jordan couldn't have won a title without Jackson? Ok. #hottakes

[Poet]

DoOoOOOOOOOoOOOOOOOOooOooOOmed.

[Canmore]

Well, you need the perspective because you're effectively arguing that Duncan equates to four other guys...

Regardless, if Jackson's crew of all-time greats couldn't win it without him, then Pop's crew of...one all-time great and a bunch of guys who were nothing close to that definitely weren't going to win much without him.

You are putting word in my mouth King. Duncan has been with Pop the whole time and he is one of the all-time greats. Does he equal Shaq, Jordan, Pippen and Kobe? That's ludicrous. Is Jackson better than Pop? I think you can make an argument for either. I like Jackson. To me championships matter. You seem to like Pop feeling he has done more with less. To each his own, and I stand by my comment that none of those players won without Jackson.

[BroncoWave]

You are putting word in my mouth King. Duncan has been with Pop the whole time and he is one of the all-time greats. Does he equal Shaq, Jordan, Pippen and Kobe? That's ludicrous. Is Jackson better than Pop? I think you can make an argument for either. I like Jackson. To me championships matter. You seem to like Pop feeling he has done more with less. To each his own, and I stand by my comment that none of those players won without Jackson.

Shaq did. And if you don't think Jordan could have, then I just don't know what to say to that.

[Northman]

I agree with King on Pop. He has done more with less, no question about it for me. Jackson's teams have always had far better support players than Pop has had in San Antonio. The only thing i disagree with King on is Shaq over Duncan. But as far as coaches we see eye to eye. 6 of the Championships that Jackson has is with THE best player to ever play the game. You just cant ignore that.

[Canmore]

Shaq did. And if you don't think Jordan could have, then I just don't know what to say to that.

You are right Shaq did playing second fiddle to Dwane Wade. As far as Jordan he didn't.

[Poet]

How many rings did Jackson win without MJ when he left?

[Canmore]

How many rings did Jackson win without MJ when he left?

In Chicago? None. You have to have horses and I think Pippen was over-rated. He was a great second banana, period.

[Poet]

In Chicago? None. You have to have horses and I think Pippen was over-rated. He was a great second banana, period.

You're right, you have to have horses and one guy won a bunch of rings with a ton of horses and the other guy won with one horse. Glad you've decided to agree with me. ;)

[Canmore]

You're right, you have to have horses and one guy won a bunch of rings with a ton of horses and the other guy won with one horse. Glad you've decided to agree with me. ;)

Oh. I didn't know that I was agreeing with you.

That guy who won with "tons" of horses only had them for relatively short periods of time versus the other guy who only had one horse but forever.

[Poet]

Oh. I didn't know that I was agreeing with you.

That guy who won with "tons" of horses only had them for relatively short periods of time versus the other guy who only had one horse but forever.

Jackson was the coach of both the Lakers and the Bulls for a pretty long time.

[Canmore]

Jackson was the coach of both the Lakers and the Bulls for a pretty long time.

Yes he was. Two stints with the Lakers and his stint with the Bulls. Nine years with the Bulls and eleven with the Lakers.

[Poet]

Canmore...you're like arguing against earlier points...you..made...

Yikes! I want a trade.

[Canmore]

Canmore...you're like arguing against earlier points...you..made...

Yikes! I want a trade.

Sorry. Never said I didn't like Pop. I just like Jackson better and that maybe personal bias is part of that thinking. I feel he manages players as well as I've ever seen. You said Pop was better at in game adjustments. Jackson certainly was pretty good at game to game adjustments as a series went on and his ability to manage egos through both the regular season and the playoffs is unrivaled. Eleven championships and thirteen finals appearances out of twenty seasons is unfathomable to me and I find it doubtful that it will be duplicated anytime soon if ever.

As far as arguing against previous statements...I don't know.

Bottom line. It is difficult to compare. Both had phenomenal success. I understand you like Pop better and I think I have a feel for why. Would Pop and Jackson have similar results if they switched places? Really hard to say but interesting to think about.

[BroncoWave]

Here's the big difference to me: Jackson more or less won all his titles with superstars that he inherited in their primes. He never reall had to build or develop a roster the way Pop has in San Antonio. I mean, he turned guys who were complete afterthoughts in Ginobili and Parker into legit top rate stars. Jackson never really did anything like that.

That's not to say Jackson isn't an all-time great coach as well, but I would take Pop if given the choice between the two.

[Poet]

DooOOOooOOooOOOOOOOoOooooOOOoOoooooOOoooOOOmed.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Do you guys think the Clippers can beat the Spurs in an elimination game?

[Poet]

Spurs by thirty.

[Slick]

Even though they had won 2 games in LA, I had a bad feeling when the Spurs didn't close them out in game 6. Bummer.

[MOtorboat]

Even though they had won 2 games in LA, I had a bad feeling when the Spurs didn't close them out in game 6. Bummer.

It will probably be the best series of the whole playoffs. An amazing series.

[Northman]

Even though they had won 2 games in LA, I had a bad feeling when the Spurs didn't close them out in game 6. Bummer.

Too bad, outside of Portland i generally throw my support to them.

[Poet]

I am stunned that the Spurs lost to the Clippers. I thought S.A. was going to come out and drop the hammer on the Clippers. I thought Duncan was going to bang it out with a couple of the Clippers' cheerleaders on the center of the court...during halftime... I thought Leonard was going to drop forty-five points and snot-bomb Paul in the face. I thought wrong.

[BroncoWave]

Welp, the Memphis-GS series started about how I expected. This Warriors team is just stupid good. And so young. They could easily be on the way to becoming a dynasty if they can keep this core together.

[Dapper Dan]

I really don't like James Harden. No real reason.

[BroncoWave]

Second round is looking to be much more competitive than round 1 so far. Each series is 1-1.

[ShaneFalco]

holy shit derrick rose....

[Poet]

**** LBJ. Swag.

[Dapper Dan]

JJ Redick is mah cracka

[CrazyHorse]

Clippers are winning it this year.

[Poet]

Clippers are winning it this year.

That'd be sick.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Clippers are winning it this year.

I would have to agree.....best team in the playoffs with the best player in the playoffs.

[MOtorboat]

I would have to agree.....best team in the playoffs with the best player in the playoffs.

LeBron James and Stephen Curry have been eliminated?

[Dapper Dan]

LeBron James and Stephen Curry have been eliminated?

We all know JJ Redick is better than those fools.

[SR]

I'm watching a basketball game willingly for the first time in 20 years. Go Rockets?

[dogfish]

gawd damn, lebron. . .

38 points
12 rebounds
6 assists
3 blocks
3 steals
0 turnovers

now that's a game!

[Poet]

I hate him so much, but he's so absurdly good.

[dogfish]

I hate him so much, but he's so absurdly good.

zero tunrovers w/ all the rest of that, and his responsibilities as ballhander, is just nasty good. . .


ironic sidenote, i find it funny that king hates the king. . . :D

[MOtorboat]

Meh.

[DenBronx]

Golden State looks like their gonna take it. Too fast and shoot too good for the rest of the teams left. Cant wait to see Curry and Blake battle it out.

[CrazyHorse]

Golden State looks like their gonna take it. Too fast and shoot too good for the rest of the teams left. Cant wait to see Curry and Blake battle it out.

Well, whoever wins the west will likely win the finals.

[Poet]

zero tunrovers w/ all the rest of that, and his responsibilities as ballhander, is just nasty good. . .


ironic sidenote, i find it funny that king hates the king. . . :D

He is Cleveland incarnate.

He is already a top five player. The best in the league. Maybe the best skillset in league history. Still can't stand the guy.

[BroncoWave]

He is Cleveland incarnate.

He is already a top five player. The best in the league. Maybe the best skillset in league history. Still can't stand the guy.

Why exactly don't you like him?

[Poet]

Why exactly don't you like him?

Cleveland deserves no joy.

[BroncoWave]

Cleveland deserves no joy.

Did you like him in Miami, then?

[Poet]

Did you like him in Miami, then?

No. I never had issue with super teams forming -we love the dynasties and then act like they're NOT superteams while drubbing the shit out of LBJ and company for it- but I thought 'the decision' was the douchest most self-aggrandizing piece of shit this side of Kanye West.

[BroncoWave]

No. I never had issue with super teams forming -we love the dynasties and then act like they're NOT superteams while drubbing the shit out of LBJ and company for it- but I thought 'the decision' was the douchest most self-aggrandizing piece of shit this side of Kanye West.

Yeah, Chad Ochocinco, a guy you idolized, wasn't self-aggrandizing at all.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Aggrandizing; big word of the day -

[Dapper Dan]

I forgot how much Wave liked LBJ

[SR]

I forgot how much Wave liked LBJ

Lyndon B Johnson?

[Dapper Dan]

Lyndon B Johnson?

That's who I usually think of but no one knows who he is anymore.

[BroncoWave]

I forgot how much Wave liked LBJ

I mostly just think the amount of hate he gets is way disproportionate with all the bad stuff so many pro athletes do. Like, the worst thing the guy ever did was go on TV an announce he is switiching teams, and he gets hated like he's Ray Rice or Mike Vick or something.

And I at least kinda got it while he was in Miami, but anyone who still hates him after he went back to Cleveland and patched things up with everyone is just being stubborn at this point IMO.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

I mostly just think the amount of hate he gets is way disproportionate with all the bad stuff so many pro athletes do. Like, the worst thing the guy ever did was go on TV an announce he is switiching teams, and he gets hated like he's Ray Rice or Mike Vick or something.

And I at least kinda got it while he was in Miami, but anyone who still hates him after he went back to Cleveland and patched things up with everyone is just being stubborn at this point IMO.

Personally, I've never been a Cav's or Heat fan, but I appreciate greatness

[Dapper Dan]

And I irrationally hate Tom Brady too. Get off my lawn.

[Poet]

Yo DoggieFish, I won't defend Chad because he's a wife beating piece of shit. But in his time he at least had a sense of humor.

[Dapper Dan]

Redick for threeeee

[Dapper Dan]

A bit of a high scoring game.

[dogfish]

Yo DoggieFish, I won't defend Chad because he's a wife beating piece of shit. But in his time he at least had a sense of humor.


:noidea:




Yeah, Chad Ochocinco, a guy you idolized, wasn't self-aggrandizing at all.

[ShaneFalco]

Ochocinco was the man. I miss him.

[Poet]

I got you two confused in my haste.

[Dapper Dan]

Wow. Tie game.

[Dapper Dan]

This is cray. What just happened?

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

This is cray. What just happened?

The Rockets found their huevos rancheros

[Dapper Dan]

I can't believe what I just watched.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Me neither...the Clippers choked. That's what I expected to see against the Spurs.

[Dapper Dan]

Oh. My. God. What a way to end the third. Steph Curry!

[FanInAZ]

Oh. My. God. What a way to end the third. Steph Curry!

Yes, what a way to get robbed by the refs who missed a blatant foul, giving a chance for that 75' buzzer beater the other way.

[Dapper Dan]

I still don't see it. The offensive player jumped into the defender. Defender is allowed to hold his ground. And it helps when you get your hand on the ball.

It didn't seem any worse than when Curry got pushed out of bounce, giving Memphis the ball.

[Denver Native (Carol)]

WOW - Clippers were up 3-1 on Houston, and the Clippers are OUT

[Poet]

Clippers just have this roadblock. I don't understand it.

[SR]

WOW - Clippers were up 3-1 on Houston, and the Clippers are OUT

Makes me LOL

[Dapper Dan]

I wanted the Spurs to beat the Clippers but I wanted the Clippers to beat the Rockets. R.I.P. to the teams I root for.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Clippers just have this roadblock. I don't understand it.

Houston is just a more talented team.

[Denver Native (Carol)]

NEW YORK — Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry has been fined $5,000 by the NBA for violating the league's anti-flopping rules against the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals.

The NBA made the announcement on Wednesday. The league says the flop occurred after Curry's 3-pointer with 3:07 remaining in the fourth quarter of the Warriors' 110-106 victory on Tuesday night.

Curry made the shot and fell to the court after getting bumped by defender Terrence Jones. The 3-pointer gave the Warriors a 106-97 lead.

http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_28154236/stephen-curry-fined-5-000-flop-warriors-game

[DenBronx]

That was so petty by the NBA. Curry didnt even flop on that play, he lost his balance after the shot.

Looks like its going to be Cavs vs Golden State.

[Dapper Dan]

Yeah buddy. I'm enjoying this game :D

[DenBronx]

What a blowout! Curry is a beast!

[DenBronx]

Noway GS should of let Curry back in after he fell on his head. I think that's a bad mistake by Kerr to let him play. GS was making a comeback w/o him.

[Poet]

Sometimes, and I do just mean sometimes, it feels like the NBA is becoming a great league to watch again.

[DenBronx]

Sometimes, and I do just mean sometimes, it feels like the NBA is becoming a great league to watch again.


It's been a long time since it has been. But I'm getting that feeling too.

[MasterShake]

Sometimes, and I do just mean sometimes, it feels like the NBA is becoming a great league to watch again.

They have these strange seasons like this where some teams seem to come out of nowhere, but they are still the exception. Last time I watched a Final was to see Dallas take out Miami. Once the Nuggets are out I just lose interest usually, but there are some great series this year. NHL playoffs have been outstanding, too.

EDIT: Despite that, the last time I was just a fan of the NBA in general was the mid to late 80's and early 90's. Such a fun stretch overall.

[DenBronx]

The Jordan era was the best hands down.

[Canmore]

The Jordan era was the best hands down.

No the 80's were the best with the Lakers and the Celtics.

[BroncoJoe]

The Jordan era was the best hands down.


No the 80's were the best with the Lakers and the Celtics.

Hard to argue against either one.

[MOtorboat]

David Blatt takes a lot of shit, but he's doing one thing really well: just let J.R. be J.R.

J.R. Smith has been great.

[BroncoWave]

David Blatt takes a lot of shit, but he's doing one thing really well: just let J.R. be J.R.

J.R. Smith has been great.

And they've needed it too with Love and Irving being out. Never thought I'd see the day where JR Smith was a key cog on a finals team but here we are. He's really been lights out lately.

[Buff]

David Blatt takes a lot of shit, but he's doing one thing really well: just let J.R. be J.R.

J.R. Smith has been great.

As opposed to what? Trying to turn him into a low post player? The guy jacks 3 pointers - I don't know if we should give Blatt any credit for that.

I don't know if it's been all the media scrutiny that's tainted my impression of him - but Blatt just seems hapless and incompetent to me. Like, Lebron is obviously coaching the team and this guy is literally just doing what he can to not screw anything up.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

No the 80's were the best with the Lakers and the Celtics.

...and the Bad Boys and the Houston Rockets. Both teams also made multiple finals in the 80's.....The 76ers with Dr. J also won a title in the 80's.

[MOtorboat]

As opposed to what? Trying to turn him into a low post player? The guy jacks 3 pointers - I don't know if we should give Blatt any credit for that.

I don't know if it's been all the media scrutiny that's tainted my impression of him - but Blatt just seems hapless and incompetent to me. Like, Lebron is obviously coaching the team and this guy is literally just doing what he can to not screw anything up.

As opposed to benching him like New York and Denver did.

[Canmore]

...and the Bad Boys and the Houston Rockets. Both teams also made multiple finals in the 80's.....The 76ers with Dr. J also won a title in the 80's.

I guessed that was coming. The 80's were great for the NBA.

[Buff]

As opposed to benching him like New York and Denver did.

I give Lebron more credit than anyone. He was the one who wanted JR when the Knicks insisted on including him in the deal, and he's the one who has kind of brought him in line.

[MOtorboat]

I give Lebron more credit than anyone. He was the one who wanted JR when the Knicks insisted on including him in the deal, and he's the one who has kind of brought him in line.

I think that's fair. But for as much shit as Blatt gets, he does just get out of the way for the most part. I mean, I don't see much change in Smith's game. There's really little development from his early years, but I'd be willing to bet he's playing more minutes, meaning Blatt and James aren't afraid to allow that like other teams have.

[Poet]

I give Lebron more credit than anyone. He was the one who wanted JR when the Knicks insisted on including him in the deal, and he's the one who has kind of brought him in line.

Yeah during one of the games the were talking about LBJ telling the front office to get JR Smith because LBJ would take care of it. JRS' game is the same, but he's playing with more focus.

[DenBronx]

Let me rephrase.

The 80s to mid 90s were the Golden Years for Basketball but the time Jordan was here it was best. Yes better than Bird or Magic or the Bad Boys. Once Jordan came around he made them all bow down.

[Canmore]

Let me rephrase.

The 80s to mid 90s were the Golden Years for Basketball but the time Jordan was here it was best. Yes better than Bird or Magic or the Bad Boys. Once Jordan came around he made them all bow down.

A lot of fans would agree with you, but I'm not one of them. I'll take Bird and Magic, the Bad Boys and Houston.

[MOtorboat]

It's a shame that Dwight Howard doesn't have that killer instinct, because that guy could be one of the best players in the NBA if he tried harder.

[Poet]

It's a shame that Dwight Howard doesn't have that killer instinct, because that guy could be one of the best players in the NBA if he tried harder.

I hate soft centers.

[BroncoWave]

Excellent piece by Ryen Russilo here. Does a much better job of eloquating these points than I could ever hope to.

brRZgBBQ4BA

[Poet]

Meh. He's a turd.

[BroncoWave]

Meh. He's a turd.

Admit it King. Russilo just styled on you.

[MOtorboat]

Meh. He's a turd.

You're a turd.

#strongrebuttals

[Poet]

You're a turd.

#strongrebuttals

#toostrong

[Poet]

Admit it King. Russilo just styled on you.

I would dismantle man debating those 'points' while wearing a better suit.

[MOtorboat]

I think there's a fine line between a fun, amazing crowd and an annoying, douchey crowd. I also feel as if The Oracle has tilted towards the latter in these playoffs.

[Poet]

I think there's a fine line between a fun, amazing crowd and an annoying, douchey crowd. I also feel as if The Oracle has tilted towards the latter in these playoffs.

I like a hateful crowd.

[MOtorboat]

I like a hateful crowd.

The "_______ sucks" chant is stupid.

It's also a sign of laziness.

[Poet]

The "_______ sucks" chant is stupid.

It's also a sign of laziness.

That's not hateful, that's apathetic dislike. I'm talking about them good ole days. You know.

[MOtorboat]

That's not hateful, that's apathetic dislike. I'm talking about them good ole days. You know.

That's what I mean. Hateful doesn't always equal douchey.

[Poet]

That's what I mean. Hateful doesn't always equal douchey.

YEEAHAHAAAAHAHAHAAAAaaaAAAAAAaaAAaH!

[MOtorboat]

YEEAHAHAAAAHAHAHAAAAaaaAAAAAAaaAAaH!

The Oracle, when Golden State shocked the Mavs was a madhouse. It was awesome. Now it's just kinda meh.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

YEEAHAHAAAAHAHAHAAAAaaaAAAAAAaaAAaH!

perfect example of douchy without the hate, well done.

[Poet]

perfect example of douchy without the hate, well done.

Are you doubting my hatred of Mo?

[Buff]

Nugs should hire Thibodeau ASAP. That guy would restore some credibility to this team, and bring all of these clowns in line.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Are you doubting my hatred of Mo?

Nope...purely analytical observation.

[BroncoWave]

Nugs should hire Thibodeau ASAP. That guy would restore some credibility to this team, and bring all of these clowns in line.

If New Orleans wants him, Denver ain't getting him. People will be lining up to coach Davis. New Orleans has plenty of options though, so Thibs could very well still available if they go another direction.

[Buff]

If New Orleans wants him, Denver ain't getting him. People will be lining up to coach Davis. New Orleans has plenty of options though, so Thibs could very well still available if they go another direction.

Yeah, we'll just have to wait until the NBA rigs the draft in our favor to move to the front of the line.

[dogfish]

the nugs would never pay for thibs. . . which is friggin' sad, and is a fine example of why they're a third-rate organization. . .

[MOtorboat]

the nugs would never pay for thibs. . . which is friggin' sad, and is a fine example of why they're a third-rate organization. . .

They'd have to change the roster for him too. Already failed to do it for one coach.

:coffee:

[dogfish]

They'd have to change the roster for him too. Already failed to do it for one coach.

:coffee:

well, the roster blows, and needs to be changed regardless of who the coach is. . .

[MOtorboat]

The whole kid at the press conference thing for Curry is not cute. It's annoying and disrespectful.

[Dapper Dan]

The whole kid at the press conference thing for Curry is not cute. It's annoying and disrespectful.

Lawls

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

What pick do the Nuggets have?

[dogfish]

What pick do the Nuggets have?

seventh. . . which is a good number for denver sports, obviously-- but not necessarily high enough to have much odds of finding the franchise-changing type of player the nuggies so desperately need. . . we'll see. . .

[Poet]

The whole kid at the press conference thing for Curry is not cute. It's annoying and disrespectful.

That child is adorable and the reporters are laughing pretty hard and having fun with it.

[MOtorboat]

That child is adorable and the reporters are laughing pretty hard and having fun with it.

It doesn't take long to perfect fake media laugh.

I know you love your kid, but I don't love your kid.

[Poet]

It doesn't take long to perfect fake media laugh.

I know you love your kid, but I don't love your kid.

It seemed like a pretty organic moment to me, Mo. I would rather have to 'deal' with an athlete doing that shit then the whole 'no comment' or the vile 'i'm just here to not get in trouble line'.

[BroncoWave]

The whole kid at the press conference thing for Curry is not cute. It's annoying and disrespectful.

Who cares if he brings his kid to the press conference or not? If we're starting to complain about someone bringing their kid to a press conference, then we are starting to take sports way too seriously.

[Buff]

Who cares if he brings his kid to the press conference or not? If we're starting to complain about someone bringing their kid to a press conference, then we are starting to take sports way too seriously.

Disagree. NBA is a multi billion dollar enterprise. Part of Steph Curry's job (for which he is highly paid) involves media availability. There are people whose jobs are based around that media availability. He is disrespecting the people whose careers are basically fueling his success and salary.

It's cute if he does it once - it's obnoxious and unprofessional if he keeps doing it.

[MOtorboat]

It seemed like a pretty organic moment to me, Mo. I would rather have to 'deal' with an athlete doing that shit then the whole 'no comment' or the vile 'i'm just here to not get in trouble line'.

Maybe the first time it was organic. Now it seems contrived and disrespectful.

[Dapper Dan]

Wow. Some people just have sticks in their asses.

[Buff]

Wow. Some people just have sticks in their asses.

It would be like any person bringing a child to the workplace - you understand occasionally, it's unprofessional if they do it habitually.

[MOtorboat]

It would be like any person bringing a child to the workplace - you understand occasionally, it's unprofessional if they do it habitually.

Bringing a child to work is one thing that's understandable. Bringing the child to a meeting is what's unprofessional. That press conference is five minutes, Riley can't stay with Del and grandma for five more minutes?

[Poet]

Maybe the first time it was organic. Now it seems contrived and disrespectful.

Bobby Knight once used his grandchild as a prop to actually mock reporters. That was disrespectful.

Buff, to address your media availability criticism, Curry, with child in tow, was far more accessible than Lynch was. Did you, or do you now, have a problem with Lynch's actions?

[Northman]

seventh. . . which is a good number for denver sports, obviously-- but not necessarily high enough to have much odds of finding the franchise-changing type of player the nuggies so desperately need. . . we'll see. . .

You mean the Nuggets havent moved out of state yet? :laugh:

[Northman]

It would be like any person bringing a child to the workplace - you understand occasionally, it's unprofessional if they do it habitually.

Actually, i personally find it disruptive whenever it happens. Never understood the bring you kid to work thing, its just not professional especially when you cant keep them in line while there.