Milwaukee Bucks @ Indiana Pacers
There wasn’t much in this game at the end, but after winning the first three quarters it was clear the Milwaukee Bucks deserved this win. Brandon Knight spearheaded his side’s victory - continuing his very impressive start to the season - with rookie Jabari Parker seemingly settling well into professional basketball after also having a good game. Roy Hibbert was the stand out player for the Indiana Pacers as he continued his return to the form that saw him named as an All-Star last season. The teams were separated by just three points after the Pacers’ Chris Copeland scored a three pointer in the closing stages, but Knight was there for the Bucks to reinstate their lead, and this time it was decisive.
Bucks 87 - 81 Pacers
KEY PERFORMERS
Brandon Knight - 23 points, 7 rebounds
O.J. Mayo - 9 points, 5 assists, 3 steals
Roy Hibbert - 16 points, 7 rebounds, 5 blocks
Lavoy Allen - 8 points, 12 rebounds
Houston Rockets @ Miami Heat
In a battle between two teams with a 100% record, the Houston Rockets faced the Miami Heat. Neither team shot the ball particularly well at the start of the game, but big men - namely Chris Bosh and Dwight Howard - got plenty of second chance points from these misses. James Harden was as efficient as ever, getting to the free throw line ten times, and converting all of these chances. An 18-5 run seemed to give the Rockets some breathing space but the Heat regained lost ground to reduce the Rockets’ lead to six in the last quarter. This is when another tactic from Houston’s repertoire came into effect, with the three ball being shot very well. They finished the game with 46% shooting from behind the line on 37 attempts. Miami couldn’t find an answer to this offensive punch and succumbed to their first loss of the season. Meanwhile the Rockets are now 5-0 with tough games against the San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors up next.
Rockets 108 - 91 Heat
KEY PERFORMERS
James Harden - 25 points, 10 assists, 9 rebounds
Dwight Howard - 26 points, 10 rebounds
Chris Bosh - 21 points, 8 rebounds
Dwyane Wade - 19 points
Washington Wizards @ New York Knicks
After being blown out by the Bulls in their first game, the New York Knicks have won their past two games impressively, with the triangle offense seemingly working. And it continued in this game, Carmelo Anthony started off hot while Amar’e Stoudemire and Samuel Dalembert collected rebounds down low. But this form seemed to come to a complete halt in the third quarter as the Washington Wizards stepped it up a notch. The Wizards shot 55% from the floor in the third, with Paul Pierce being the go-to guy in their offense. On the other end of the floor the Wizards managed to limit the Knicks offense as they scored just 15 points in the quarter. Anthony went from hero to zero in the latter stages of the game, after starting well he ended up shooting just 8-23 in the game, and also committed seven turnovers. Although the Wizards didn’t dominate the last quarter, it didn’t matter, the damage was already done.
Wizards 98 - 83 Knicks
KEY PERFORMERS
Garrett Temple - 17 points, 5 rebounds
Paul Pierce - 17 points, 5 rebounds
Amar’e Stoudemire - 6 points, 12 rebounds
Carmelo Anthony - 18 points, 6 rebounds
Oklahoma City Thunder @ Toronto Raptors
The Oklahoma City Thunder can’t seem to catch a break. They were only able to suit up eight players for the trip to the Toronto Raptors but this number was reduced by the end of this game. They survived the first half injury free, and amazingly, they even led at the half, after a 30 point first quarter. However the problems began in the third quarter. Kevin Durant’s replacement Perry Jones drove in for a layup, but managed to clash knees with Patrick Patterson, meaning Jones had to leave the game with a suspected knee contusion. Later in the same quarter, Reggie Jackson tweaked his knee and left for the bench - luckily he was able to rejoin the game later. Despite all of this drama the Thunder were still in with a chance of winning this game, until late in the fourth quarter when the Raptors were able to use their squad depth against tired opposition. And still it got worse for the Thunder! Late in the fourth, Sebastian Telfair hit Raptors forward Tyler Hansbrough on the face, which earned Telfair a flagrant foul, meaning he was ejected from the game. The Thunder ended the game with six players left, with Jackson not to full fitness, so there was little surprise when they lost the game.
Thunder 88 - 100 Raptors
KEY PERFORMERS
Serge Ibaka - 25 points, 11 rebounds
Reggie Jackson - 13 points, 14 assists
Patrick Patterson - 14 points, 8 rebounds
Tyler Hansbrough - 12 points, 7 rebounds
Orlando Magic @ Chicago Bulls
Two injury hit sides faced off in the Windy City as the Chicago Bulls hosted the Orlando Magic. The Bulls had to do it without their big two, with Derrick Rose still being out due to sprained ankles, and Joakim Noah catching a sickness bug. Although the Magic’s injuries were less pivotal - Willie Green, Mo Harkless, Devyn Marble and Andrew Nicholson all missed the game - they meant that Orlando only had 8 players for the game. Both teams started evenly, the Magic gaining an early lead but the Bulls soon pulled it back in the second. It was close until the final quarter, which was owned by the Bulls, in particular, Aaron Brooks. The guard who recently joined from Denver put in an incredible shift, managing to block Nicola Vucevic (despite being a foot smaller than him) and converting both his three pointer attempts. He helped give the Magic their fourth straight loss.
Magic 90 - 98 Bulls
KEY PERFORMERS
Nicola Vucevic - 19 points, 13 rebounds
Tobias Harris - 21 points, 9 rebounds
Pau Gasol - 16 points, 13 rebounds
Jimmy Butler - 21 points, 9 rebounds
Aaron Brooks - 14 points, 8 assists, 3 blocks
Charlotte Hornets @ New Orleans Pelicans
The Charlotte Hornets travelled to their old hometown to face the New Orleans Pelicans, with both teams desperately seeking a win after losing starts to the season. MVP candidate Anthony Davis started slowly, scoring just six points in the first half, but he soon picked his offensive game up, shooting 5-7 in the third quarter. This helped the Pelicans to a 26-17 third quarter lead, gaining a 15 point lead in the process. Although the Hornets soon reduced that lead to eight they couldn’t prevent the Pelicans from re-opening it again, with Ryan Anderson particularly helping on the offensive end of their game.
Hornets 91 - 100 Pelicans
KEY PERFORMERS
Al Jefferson - 20 points, 5 rebounds
Gary Neal - 21 points, 6 rebounds
Anthony Davis - 24 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks
Tyreke Evans - 16 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists
Cleveland Cavaliers @ Portland Trail Blazers
LeBron James’ return to the Cleveland Cavaliers has not been a smooth process, and this homecoming was upset even more after a visit to the Portland Trail Blazers. It started off so well for the Cavaliers as well, they made their first ten shots with James scoring nine points in that time. But this momentum was halted in the second quarter, the Trail Blazers scoring 24 points of their own in this period, with LeBron looking a quieter player. Cleveland’s defence looked shaky but managed to keep the third close, but they soon fell away in the final quarter. To be perfectly honest the Cavs just looked poor in this match. Kyrie Irving shot 3-17 from the field, while LeBron could only find the bottom of the bucket once in seven attempts after the first quarter. Portland’s bench wasn’t convincing either - they scored five baskets together - but luckily their starting five stepped up and gave them the W.
Cavaliers 82 - 101 Trail Blazers
KEY PERFORMERS
Kevin Love - 22 points, 10 rebounds
Tristan Thompson - 10 points, 8 rebounds
Damian Lillard - 27 points, 7 assists
Robin Lopez - 19 points, 6 rebounds
Phoenix Suns @ Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers continued their worst start to a season since 1957 with yet another loss, again falling to the Phoenix Suns. Kobe Bryant seemed to be back to his vintage self, scoring 18 in the first half, and with the Suns shooting 1-15 at the beginning of the second quarter, it seemed like they might be in contention till the end. But Phoenix soon found their feet, and ended up leading at the half, mainly due to their bench being dominant over the Lakers’ reserve players. Bryant returned to court in the second half, and didn’t leave the game again, head coach Byron Scott deeming him too pivotal to the Lakers’ chances. Luckily Kobe managed to play 44 minutes injury free (he even cleared the first row of fans when chasing a loose ball) and provided 39 points on 14-37 shooting. It wasn’t enough to stop the Lakers losing again, with P.J. Tucker scoring a pivotal three pointer with just under 20 seconds left on the clock.
Suns 112 - 106 Lakers
KEY PERFORMERS
Markieff Morris - 23 points, 10 rebounds
Isaiah Thomas - 22 points, 9 assists
Kobe Bryant - 39 points, 9 rebounds
Jordan Hill - 15 points, 15 rebounds
Showing posts with label lakers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lakers. Show all posts
Wednesday, 5 November 2014
Monday, 26 May 2014
Melo to say Hello to Free Agency?
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| It is yet unclear as to where Carmelo Anthony will be playing next year. |
In fact during his 4 seasons at the Knicks, they haven't got past the first round of the play-offs. So it's no surprise that Melo has been rumoured to be weighing up his options in the free agency this summer, with plenty of potential suitors queuing up to sign him. Carmelo is likely to undertake a similar process to the one Dwight Howard took last year and test the free-market by meeting with different teams throughout the off-season.
Two teams are already allegedly on the list, his current club the New York Knicks (more on them later) and the Chicago Bulls. Joining the Bulls is an enticing offer for both sides, on paper at least. Melo isn't renowned for playing great defence and the Bulls aren't the most attacking side in the world. Tom Thibodeau (head coach of the Chicago Bulls) could help work on Carmelo's defence, and in return Anthony could easily drop 25 points a night, a figure that would propel the Bulls' record through the roof. The thought of a Rose-Butler-Anthony-Gibson-Noah starting 5 with players like Nikola Mirotic, whom the Bulls' are likely to buy the rights to, and D.J Augustin coming off the bench would send any Bulls fan into a frenzy, and with Tom Thibodeau at the helm, the team look like they could be genuine title contenders.
There are also whispers that a return to Denver could be on the cards for Carmelo. This could prove to be an exciting decision, with the Nuggets having plenty of young talent on their roster, such as big men JaVale McGee and Kenneth Faried. Adding Carmelo Anthony to that set-up could give them that bit of consistency that the Nuggets sometimes lacked this year. But unfortunately, it is a move that is very unlikely to happen. The Nuggets have absolutely no cap space, and are not likely to trade young players away in the hope that Melo will rejoin them, for a few more years before retirement.
The Lakers are another team who have been rumoured to be interested in acquiring Carmelo's services. This may not come as a surprise as they seem to be linked to every free agent on the market, but this deal looks like it is more likely to materialise. Kobe Bryant and Anthony are rumoured to be close friends, after playing together in the past 2 Olympics games (winning gold medals in both events). Kobe recently offered advice to Anthony (on the assumption that Carmelo would stay in New York), saying that although Madison Square Garden is the "Mecca of basketball" he should let the Knicks know that he won't tolerate being in a team that isn't contending for an NBA championship. If Melo did move to L.A., it would be interesting to see how the Bryant-Anthony partnership would work. Both players are known for their, sometimes "selfish", shooting form, and it is yet to be seen how well they could work together. An alternative view point is that Melo could be seen as a replacement for Kobe, who is now in twilight years of his career. Despite the Lakers being a prestigious franchise to play for, it's unlikely that Melo will end up there.
A more believable option would be for Melo to move to the Houston Rockets. The Rockets have had a good campaign, claiming their best record for 6 seasons. And with superstars James Harden and Dwight Howard already at the team, the parts are all there for a title-contending team. The trade proposed by most sources will send Omer Asik and Jeremy Lin to the Knicks. This deal works well with both teams. The Knicks regain Lin, which will help their struggling backcourt, and get Asik, who is desperate to get out of Houston. This trade seems almost too perfect, and is seen as a brilliant move by NBA legend Oscar Robertson. He said "If he (Anthony) goes to Houston, they're gonna win everything." Indeed, it could turn the Rockets into a dynasty, especially with young guys like Terrence Jones and Patrick Beverley developing, providing much hope for the future.
Of course, there's always the option of staying in the Big Apple, a choice looking more likely with the latest additions to the backroom staff. They've hired a new President, with Phil Jackson joining the club. Jackson is a known winner, winning 13 rings as a player and a coach and could be a pivotal factor in getting the best out of under-performing players, which the Knicks have plenty of at the minute (Raymond Felton, J.R. Smith, the list goes on). However, there are still uncertainties as to who will take the coaching role, with Jackson's first choice, Steve Kerr, being snapped up by the Golden State Warriors earlier in the month. The Knicks will be able to spend more freely in the next post-season, when players such as Kevin Love, Marc Gasol and LaMarcus Aldridge are available, but the question is whether 'Melo will want to wait until then?
Whether he stays or goes, Melo will always be remembered for his incredible scoring form. Sources close to him say that he's going to take his time to think about moving, but will have to persuade his family, who are very much settled in New York. As a player, he will want to win rings, and at the moment, it doesn't look like that's achievable with the Knicks.
Thursday, 17 April 2014
End of Season Award Predictions
With the end of the season coming up, I thought I would make some predictions as to who is going to win the end of season awards.
Most Valuable Player
1st - Kevin Durant (Thunder)
2nd - LeBron James (Heat)
3rd - Joakim Noah (Bulls)
Honourable Mentions : Blake Griffin (Clippers), Kevin Love (Timberwolves), Paul George (Pacers)
The pundits billed the Race to the MVP as a fight between LeBron James and Kevin Durant, and what a contest it's been. But, at the end of a long, hard season, the Servant has surpassed the King. Durant has had career highs in pretty every stat, as well as breaking Michael Jordan's streak of 25+ point games. He also led his team through some tough times, when they were without their starting point guard, Russell Westbrook. LeBron hasn't exactly had a bad season, but for a long period of the season, it has looked like he has been coasting. Joakim Noah comes a distant 3rd, despite having a fantastic season for the Bulls in which he has recorded 4 triple doubles, and 43 double doubles. He has been a natural leader for a team that has had to play without Derrick Rose and Luol Deng.
Blake Griffin was a contender for the final spot as he has been a star all season, especially during Chris Paul's absence. Joakim Noah clinched 3rd because he has been a little bit more consistent. Kevin Love also had a chance as an individual, but has been let down by the Timberwolves' appalling record. Paul George has been the main reason for the Pacers' success this year, impressing on both ends of the floor.
Most Improved Player
1st - Goran Dragic (Suns)
2nd - Anthony Davis (Pelicans)
3rd - Lance Stephenson (Pacers)
Honourable Mentions : Blake Griffin (Clippers), Gerald Green (Suns), Kyle Lowry (Raptors)
I easily could have given this award to entire Suns roster, with the fantastic job that Jeff Hornacek has done. However, I think that Goran Dragic has been the prime example of this improvement. He has led his team to a fantastic season, which could end up in them winning a playoff berth. Not bad considering they were written off as the worst team in the West at the beginning of the season. Anthony Davis has also become the natural leader of a poor Pelicans team. He is sublime on both ends of the court, and has shown why he was the number 1 draft pick last year. The Pacers are another team who have improved massively this year (well, at least in the first half of the season) and Lance Stephenson has been at the forefront of that. There were talks of a first All-Star appearance for him, but he was snubbed in favour of Joe Johnson. Nevertheless, he has had a very good season.
It may surprise you to see Blake Griffin in this list, but he has come on leaps and bounds since last year. He has always been seen as a great dunker, but this year he has added a jump shot to his game, as well as impressive handles, especially coming from a big man. Gerald Green is another man who is considered as one of the best dunkers in the league. In his first season with the Suns he has worked considerably on his shooting and defence, and it's clear to see the effect he has had on the team. Kyle Lowry is a very underrated point guard who is averaging 18 points per game and 7.5 assists. Compare this to last season where he averaged 11.6 and 6.4, it's clear to see Lowry's potential is sky high.
Rookie of the Year
1st - Michael Carter-Williams (76ers)
2nd - Victor Oladipo (Magic)
3rd - Trey Burke (Jazz)
Honourable Mentions : Tim Hardaway Jr (Knicks), Cody Zeller (Bobcats), Mason Plumlee (Nets)
Considering he was the 11th player drafted (and the 6th guard) and is playing for the team with the second worst record in the NBA, nobody could predict the season that Michael Carter Williams was gonna have. Averaging 16.7 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists is a stat line that compares to Magic Johnson's rookie season, and Michael's done it with a worse side. I genuinely believe that this kid can go far. Another rookie with tonnes of potential is Victor Oladipo. He's been the only man who has challenged Carter-Williams for the Rookie of the Year award. His 16-4-4 stat line is a bit worse than MCW's, but he is still sure to rival him all the way through their careers. Trey Burke slides into 3rd place, despite missing the beginning of the season. He looks like he could start a bright, young Jazz side, along with Gordon Hayward.
In all honesty, the draft class this year hasn't been very good. High picks like Anthony Bennett, Otto Potter Jr. and Kelly Olynyk have failed to impress, which is why you have to go down the draft order to find honourable mentions. Tim Hardaway Jr. was drafted 24th by the Knicks, but looks like rather good value. He could be a key piece in the bid to keep Carmelo Anthony in New York. Mason Plumlee was the 22nd pick and has proved to be a valuable role player for the Nets, with his 7 points per game, and 4 rebounds. Cody Zeller hasn't exactly had a jaw-dropping season, but he's the best of a bad bunch. Being in a playoff team in his season will give him a lot of experience for his future career.
Coach of the Year
1st - Gregg Popovich (Spurs)
2nd - Tom Thibodeau (Bulls)
3rd - Jeff Hornacek (Suns)
Honourable Mentions : Dwane Casey (Raptors), Steve Clifford (Bobcats), Terry Stotts (Trailblazers)
At the beginning of the season, the Spurs were ruled out of contending for the championship for being too old (again), and then during the season, everyone said they would get tired near the end (again), and now they have the best record in the NBA (again). Of course, players like Tony Parker and Tim Duncan play a key part in this consistency, but a lot of credit has to go to Gregg Popovich. His coaching style is not liked by the NBA board, but resting his top stars is sometimes needed, especially when his roster isn't exactly getting any younger. He also sets up the Spurs based on how they can beat their opponents. This allows them to have a number of plans, and they can flow dynamically between them. Tom Thibodeau is another coach who has done wonders with a depleted roster. He has had to deal with the absence of Derrick Rose and Luol Deng, and instead had to rely on less known players, such as D.J. Augustin, and those with little experience, Tony Snell. He has based the Bulls on defence, and it has worked brilliantly, gaining them a top 4 playoff seed (which also means home court advantage). Jeff Hornacek obviously didn't get the memo about the Suns supposedly being the worst team in the West, as he has (potentially) lead them to a playoff spot. As well as that, he has improved players such as Goran Dragic, Eric Bledsoe and Gerald Green massively, and encouraged a brilliant team spirit.
The Raptors have had their best season ever, and part of this is down to Dwane Casey. He was in charge of the Raptors last year when they finished bottom in the Atlantic division, with a .382 record. But this year, they are a completely different team, clinching their division, and getting a home court playoff place as well. In his debut season as a NBA head coach, Steve Clifford has turned around the Charlotte Bobcats from the league's fall guys to genuine playoff contenders. He has most of his players' playing their best season to date, including Al Jefferson who has phenomenal campaign this year. Terry Stotts also deserves respect for taking a Trailblazers team to the playoffs so comfortably, when people reckoned they may scrape through.
6th Man of the Year
1st - Jamal Crawford (Clippers)
2nd - Manu Ginobili (Spurs)
3rd - Markieff Morris (Suns)
Honourable Mentions : Taj Gibson (Bulls), Reggie Jackson (Thunder), Nick Young (Lakers)
This award is possibly the hardest one to give out, because it's hard to know what individual coaches want from a 6th man. Do they want someone who is happy to slip into that role, and doesn't challenge for a bigger place (like Ginobili) or someone who can make that step up and push the starters out of place if necessary (such as Crawford)?
No matter what people look for, it's undeniable that Jamal Crawford has had a very good season. Despite being 34, he is still averaging 30 minutes per game, a high number for a 6th man, particularly at his age. He has had to step into the Clippers' starting 5, when both J.J Redick and Chris Paul have been injured. He's also scoring a very respectable 18.5 points per game, which rivals some starters at other teams. A man playing a very different 6th man role is Manu Ginobili. He is only averaging 23 minutes, but he's making the most of them, scoring 12.4 points per game, and 4.3 assists. He can't play as many minutes due to his age but he is still making a massive impact on the Spurs side. Gibson has become a much more pivotal part of the Bulls, especially on the offensive end, where he's always a threat. 13 points per game and 7 rebounds is a good figure for anybody, especially when they're a 6th man. He could be moved up to a starting spot next season, if Carlos Boozer leaves in the post-season.
Both Markieff Morris and Reggie Jackson have had fantastic seasons, and in any other year, they would be battling for the 1st and 2nd spots. Morris could have easily made the running for Most Improved Player, but I decided to put him in this category to award his efforts off the bench. He hasn't had a mind-blowing career so far, but has dealt very well with the responsibilities that Jeff Hornacek has given him. Getting 14 points a game from 26 minutes is a very impressive stat, especially from Morris, who has struggled on the offensive side of his game in past seasons. Reggie Jackson had a brilliant spell as a starter at the beginning of the season, replacing the injured Russell Westbrook at point guard. Since Westbrook's return, Jackson has dropped down to 6th man, but is still impressing in his 3rd season as a pro. Whether you love him or hate him, Nick Young has been one of the better players for the Los Angeles Lakers in an awful season. There are still questions about his defence, but on offence, he is a very good pure scorer.
Defensive Player of the Year
1st - Joakim Noah (Bulls)
2nd - Serge Ibaka (Thunder)
3rd - Anthony Davis (Pelicans)
Honourable Mentions : Andre Drummond (Pistons), Dwight Howard (Rockets), Roy Hibbert (Pacers)
This was another tough award to decide as there are so many great candidates, from all over the league. I think I have picked the top six players here (all centers incidentally) who have provided on an individual basis, and helped their team as a whole.
Joakim Noah is the favourite to take this award officially, and it's easy to see why. The Chicago Bulls are often seen as the best defensive team in the league, and Noah is seen as the epitome of that solid defence set up by Tom Thibodeau. 7.7 defensive rebounds and 1.5 blocks show that skill and leadership he was naturally blessed with. He could be described as the most part of the Bulls' playoffs bid. It may surprise you to see Serge Ibaka so far up this list, but let me talk you through my decision to give him second. I will admit, for a 6'10" power forward, to only average 6 defensive boards a game isn't award worthy. However, averaging 2.7 blocks per game (which puts him 2nd on the list this season) and the fact that the Thunder are one of the best defensive teams in the league, with their opponents field goal percentage being the 3rd lowest in the league. This balance of individual prowess and team defence puts Ibaka in a firm second place. Anthony Davis is in a bit of a different situation to the aforementioned players. The 21 year old power forward is having a sublime season, recording a very impressive 7 defensive rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game. However, the Pelicans are having a bad season on the defensive end (and on every other end as well really). If this award was awarded purely on individual effort, then he would run away with it.
Another young man in a similar position to Davis is Andre Drummond. He's posting a very good 7.8 defensive rebounds per game (which puts him 7th on the NBA list this year), but the Pistons are having an absolutely shocking season. They are one of the worst teams in the league, with their points conceded total being the 3rd worst in the league, with only Philly and the Lakers below them. Dwight Howard has had a quietly good debut season out in Houston. He is usually in the running for this award (having a 12'6" vertical reach probably helps with that quite a bit) and has only slipped away from contention this year due to Houston not being fantastic defensively as a whole. Roy Hibbert was an early frontrunner in this category but his charge has slowed dramatically as recently, he has been putting up some awful numbers. In April, he has been averaging 3.2 rebounds, meaning he has been out rebounded by his much shorter team mates such as Lance Stephenson and Paul George. Not good for a center who stands at 7'2".
Most Valuable Player
1st - Kevin Durant (Thunder)
2nd - LeBron James (Heat)
3rd - Joakim Noah (Bulls)
Honourable Mentions : Blake Griffin (Clippers), Kevin Love (Timberwolves), Paul George (Pacers)
The pundits billed the Race to the MVP as a fight between LeBron James and Kevin Durant, and what a contest it's been. But, at the end of a long, hard season, the Servant has surpassed the King. Durant has had career highs in pretty every stat, as well as breaking Michael Jordan's streak of 25+ point games. He also led his team through some tough times, when they were without their starting point guard, Russell Westbrook. LeBron hasn't exactly had a bad season, but for a long period of the season, it has looked like he has been coasting. Joakim Noah comes a distant 3rd, despite having a fantastic season for the Bulls in which he has recorded 4 triple doubles, and 43 double doubles. He has been a natural leader for a team that has had to play without Derrick Rose and Luol Deng.
Blake Griffin was a contender for the final spot as he has been a star all season, especially during Chris Paul's absence. Joakim Noah clinched 3rd because he has been a little bit more consistent. Kevin Love also had a chance as an individual, but has been let down by the Timberwolves' appalling record. Paul George has been the main reason for the Pacers' success this year, impressing on both ends of the floor.
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| Kevin Durant and LeBron James battled to the end, and the Servant ended up on top. |
Most Improved Player
1st - Goran Dragic (Suns)
2nd - Anthony Davis (Pelicans)
3rd - Lance Stephenson (Pacers)
Honourable Mentions : Blake Griffin (Clippers), Gerald Green (Suns), Kyle Lowry (Raptors)
I easily could have given this award to entire Suns roster, with the fantastic job that Jeff Hornacek has done. However, I think that Goran Dragic has been the prime example of this improvement. He has led his team to a fantastic season, which could end up in them winning a playoff berth. Not bad considering they were written off as the worst team in the West at the beginning of the season. Anthony Davis has also become the natural leader of a poor Pelicans team. He is sublime on both ends of the court, and has shown why he was the number 1 draft pick last year. The Pacers are another team who have improved massively this year (well, at least in the first half of the season) and Lance Stephenson has been at the forefront of that. There were talks of a first All-Star appearance for him, but he was snubbed in favour of Joe Johnson. Nevertheless, he has had a very good season.
It may surprise you to see Blake Griffin in this list, but he has come on leaps and bounds since last year. He has always been seen as a great dunker, but this year he has added a jump shot to his game, as well as impressive handles, especially coming from a big man. Gerald Green is another man who is considered as one of the best dunkers in the league. In his first season with the Suns he has worked considerably on his shooting and defence, and it's clear to see the effect he has had on the team. Kyle Lowry is a very underrated point guard who is averaging 18 points per game and 7.5 assists. Compare this to last season where he averaged 11.6 and 6.4, it's clear to see Lowry's potential is sky high.
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| Goran Dragic has captured the essence of the Phoenix Suns' improvements. |
Rookie of the Year
1st - Michael Carter-Williams (76ers)
2nd - Victor Oladipo (Magic)
3rd - Trey Burke (Jazz)
Honourable Mentions : Tim Hardaway Jr (Knicks), Cody Zeller (Bobcats), Mason Plumlee (Nets)
Considering he was the 11th player drafted (and the 6th guard) and is playing for the team with the second worst record in the NBA, nobody could predict the season that Michael Carter Williams was gonna have. Averaging 16.7 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists is a stat line that compares to Magic Johnson's rookie season, and Michael's done it with a worse side. I genuinely believe that this kid can go far. Another rookie with tonnes of potential is Victor Oladipo. He's been the only man who has challenged Carter-Williams for the Rookie of the Year award. His 16-4-4 stat line is a bit worse than MCW's, but he is still sure to rival him all the way through their careers. Trey Burke slides into 3rd place, despite missing the beginning of the season. He looks like he could start a bright, young Jazz side, along with Gordon Hayward.
In all honesty, the draft class this year hasn't been very good. High picks like Anthony Bennett, Otto Potter Jr. and Kelly Olynyk have failed to impress, which is why you have to go down the draft order to find honourable mentions. Tim Hardaway Jr. was drafted 24th by the Knicks, but looks like rather good value. He could be a key piece in the bid to keep Carmelo Anthony in New York. Mason Plumlee was the 22nd pick and has proved to be a valuable role player for the Nets, with his 7 points per game, and 4 rebounds. Cody Zeller hasn't exactly had a jaw-dropping season, but he's the best of a bad bunch. Being in a playoff team in his season will give him a lot of experience for his future career.
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| Michael Carter-Williams has been a class act this year, but the draft class overall disappointed. |
Coach of the Year
1st - Gregg Popovich (Spurs)
2nd - Tom Thibodeau (Bulls)
3rd - Jeff Hornacek (Suns)
Honourable Mentions : Dwane Casey (Raptors), Steve Clifford (Bobcats), Terry Stotts (Trailblazers)
At the beginning of the season, the Spurs were ruled out of contending for the championship for being too old (again), and then during the season, everyone said they would get tired near the end (again), and now they have the best record in the NBA (again). Of course, players like Tony Parker and Tim Duncan play a key part in this consistency, but a lot of credit has to go to Gregg Popovich. His coaching style is not liked by the NBA board, but resting his top stars is sometimes needed, especially when his roster isn't exactly getting any younger. He also sets up the Spurs based on how they can beat their opponents. This allows them to have a number of plans, and they can flow dynamically between them. Tom Thibodeau is another coach who has done wonders with a depleted roster. He has had to deal with the absence of Derrick Rose and Luol Deng, and instead had to rely on less known players, such as D.J. Augustin, and those with little experience, Tony Snell. He has based the Bulls on defence, and it has worked brilliantly, gaining them a top 4 playoff seed (which also means home court advantage). Jeff Hornacek obviously didn't get the memo about the Suns supposedly being the worst team in the West, as he has (potentially) lead them to a playoff spot. As well as that, he has improved players such as Goran Dragic, Eric Bledsoe and Gerald Green massively, and encouraged a brilliant team spirit.
The Raptors have had their best season ever, and part of this is down to Dwane Casey. He was in charge of the Raptors last year when they finished bottom in the Atlantic division, with a .382 record. But this year, they are a completely different team, clinching their division, and getting a home court playoff place as well. In his debut season as a NBA head coach, Steve Clifford has turned around the Charlotte Bobcats from the league's fall guys to genuine playoff contenders. He has most of his players' playing their best season to date, including Al Jefferson who has phenomenal campaign this year. Terry Stotts also deserves respect for taking a Trailblazers team to the playoffs so comfortably, when people reckoned they may scrape through.
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| Old time coaches Gregg Popovich and Tom Thibodeau were at the top of their game again this year |
6th Man of the Year
1st - Jamal Crawford (Clippers)
2nd - Manu Ginobili (Spurs)
3rd - Markieff Morris (Suns)
Honourable Mentions : Taj Gibson (Bulls), Reggie Jackson (Thunder), Nick Young (Lakers)
This award is possibly the hardest one to give out, because it's hard to know what individual coaches want from a 6th man. Do they want someone who is happy to slip into that role, and doesn't challenge for a bigger place (like Ginobili) or someone who can make that step up and push the starters out of place if necessary (such as Crawford)?
No matter what people look for, it's undeniable that Jamal Crawford has had a very good season. Despite being 34, he is still averaging 30 minutes per game, a high number for a 6th man, particularly at his age. He has had to step into the Clippers' starting 5, when both J.J Redick and Chris Paul have been injured. He's also scoring a very respectable 18.5 points per game, which rivals some starters at other teams. A man playing a very different 6th man role is Manu Ginobili. He is only averaging 23 minutes, but he's making the most of them, scoring 12.4 points per game, and 4.3 assists. He can't play as many minutes due to his age but he is still making a massive impact on the Spurs side. Gibson has become a much more pivotal part of the Bulls, especially on the offensive end, where he's always a threat. 13 points per game and 7 rebounds is a good figure for anybody, especially when they're a 6th man. He could be moved up to a starting spot next season, if Carlos Boozer leaves in the post-season.
Both Markieff Morris and Reggie Jackson have had fantastic seasons, and in any other year, they would be battling for the 1st and 2nd spots. Morris could have easily made the running for Most Improved Player, but I decided to put him in this category to award his efforts off the bench. He hasn't had a mind-blowing career so far, but has dealt very well with the responsibilities that Jeff Hornacek has given him. Getting 14 points a game from 26 minutes is a very impressive stat, especially from Morris, who has struggled on the offensive side of his game in past seasons. Reggie Jackson had a brilliant spell as a starter at the beginning of the season, replacing the injured Russell Westbrook at point guard. Since Westbrook's return, Jackson has dropped down to 6th man, but is still impressing in his 3rd season as a pro. Whether you love him or hate him, Nick Young has been one of the better players for the Los Angeles Lakers in an awful season. There are still questions about his defence, but on offence, he is a very good pure scorer.
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| The 6th Man of the Year award was closely contested this year, with several great candidates. |
Defensive Player of the Year
1st - Joakim Noah (Bulls)
2nd - Serge Ibaka (Thunder)
3rd - Anthony Davis (Pelicans)
Honourable Mentions : Andre Drummond (Pistons), Dwight Howard (Rockets), Roy Hibbert (Pacers)
This was another tough award to decide as there are so many great candidates, from all over the league. I think I have picked the top six players here (all centers incidentally) who have provided on an individual basis, and helped their team as a whole.
Joakim Noah is the favourite to take this award officially, and it's easy to see why. The Chicago Bulls are often seen as the best defensive team in the league, and Noah is seen as the epitome of that solid defence set up by Tom Thibodeau. 7.7 defensive rebounds and 1.5 blocks show that skill and leadership he was naturally blessed with. He could be described as the most part of the Bulls' playoffs bid. It may surprise you to see Serge Ibaka so far up this list, but let me talk you through my decision to give him second. I will admit, for a 6'10" power forward, to only average 6 defensive boards a game isn't award worthy. However, averaging 2.7 blocks per game (which puts him 2nd on the list this season) and the fact that the Thunder are one of the best defensive teams in the league, with their opponents field goal percentage being the 3rd lowest in the league. This balance of individual prowess and team defence puts Ibaka in a firm second place. Anthony Davis is in a bit of a different situation to the aforementioned players. The 21 year old power forward is having a sublime season, recording a very impressive 7 defensive rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game. However, the Pelicans are having a bad season on the defensive end (and on every other end as well really). If this award was awarded purely on individual effort, then he would run away with it.
Another young man in a similar position to Davis is Andre Drummond. He's posting a very good 7.8 defensive rebounds per game (which puts him 7th on the NBA list this year), but the Pistons are having an absolutely shocking season. They are one of the worst teams in the league, with their points conceded total being the 3rd worst in the league, with only Philly and the Lakers below them. Dwight Howard has had a quietly good debut season out in Houston. He is usually in the running for this award (having a 12'6" vertical reach probably helps with that quite a bit) and has only slipped away from contention this year due to Houston not being fantastic defensively as a whole. Roy Hibbert was an early frontrunner in this category but his charge has slowed dramatically as recently, he has been putting up some awful numbers. In April, he has been averaging 3.2 rebounds, meaning he has been out rebounded by his much shorter team mates such as Lance Stephenson and Paul George. Not good for a center who stands at 7'2".
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| Joakim Noah hasn't stood out massively individually, but his team's success has lead to him being awarded. |
Monday, 7 April 2014
Wild Wild West
The race to play-offs is heating up in both conferences, but it's the battle in the West that is grabbing the headlines.
This is because there are 3 teams, the Dallas Mavericks (47 wins-31 losses), the Phoenix Suns (46-31) and the Memphis Grizzlies (45-32), competing for 2 spots left in the post-season.
To add to this already close fight, all three teams still have to play each other. The Mavs are home to the Suns before travelling out to Memphis to face the Grizzlies in the last fixture of the season. Memphis and Phoenix meet in Phoenix for the penultimate match in the 2013-14 campaign.
The Mavs have one less game left, with matches against the Jazz and the Spurs to add to the games named above. The Suns also have to face the Spurs with winnable games against the Kings and the Pelicans filling out their schedule. The Grizzlies also have two "easy" games left, with a trip to Philadelphia preceding a visit from the Lakers. They also have to face the Eastern Conference topping Miami Heat.
It looks like the games against the Spurs could be the key to who gets the places. With Gregg Popovich's managerial style of resting some older key players for certain games, one of their competitors could catch a lucky break. The Grizzlies couldn't, as their 20 point defeat at the hands of the Spurs last night proved.
As the other fixtures go, it looks pretty clear cut as to who will win. However, the Suns beat the Thunder last night, so it is feasible that a similar upset could happen in the Grizzlies-Heat match-up, especially with Miami's stuttering form. Also, they could be saving stars like LeBron James and Dwayne Wade for the play-offs.
If Grizzlies are tied with any of the teams when the season's done, they will be guaranteed a play-off spot, as they are 3-0 against both the Mavericks and the Suns. If the Mavs and Suns tie, whoever wins the last remaining fixture between the sides will make the play-offs.
Looking at the fixtures still to be played, here are my predicted records.
7 - Dallas Mavericks (50-32)
8 - Phoenix Suns (49-31)
9 - Memphis Grizzlies (48-34)
I made quite a bold prediction, saying that the Suns would beat the Spurs. I said this because the Spurs have to play their rivals Rockets after this game. This means they may rest some stars such as Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan, in the hope that they can defeat Houston. Despite making my play-offs, I have the Suns down as losing both crunch matches. But due to the Grizzlies losing to both the Mavs and the Heat, they miss the cut.
With all these uncertainties, it's almost impossible to guess who will make the post-season out West. But one thing is for sure. Fans around the world will be thrilled by this race to the playoffs.
Out East, the play-off battle is much less entertaining, but still worth writing about. There are two teams in the running, the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a mathematical chance, but it's about as slight as the chances of Anthony Bennett winning Rookie of the Year. The Knicks are two games back with two games in hand over the Hawks. It seems that New York blew their best chance to catch Atlanta last night when they lost to the Heat (not helped by J.R. Smith's 22 3-point attempts). This loss was made worse by the fact that the Hawks defeated a poor Pacers team on the same night.
The Knicks have the harder schedule, having to play 4 teams already in the play-offs (Nets, Raptors twice and the Bulls) whereas the Hawks have to play "easier" sides with games against the Pistons, Celtics and the Bucks. It's hard to see a way for the Knicks to make their way into play-offs, a sentence that shouldn't be said when you look at their roster for this year.
This is because there are 3 teams, the Dallas Mavericks (47 wins-31 losses), the Phoenix Suns (46-31) and the Memphis Grizzlies (45-32), competing for 2 spots left in the post-season.
To add to this already close fight, all three teams still have to play each other. The Mavs are home to the Suns before travelling out to Memphis to face the Grizzlies in the last fixture of the season. Memphis and Phoenix meet in Phoenix for the penultimate match in the 2013-14 campaign.
The Mavs have one less game left, with matches against the Jazz and the Spurs to add to the games named above. The Suns also have to face the Spurs with winnable games against the Kings and the Pelicans filling out their schedule. The Grizzlies also have two "easy" games left, with a trip to Philadelphia preceding a visit from the Lakers. They also have to face the Eastern Conference topping Miami Heat.
It looks like the games against the Spurs could be the key to who gets the places. With Gregg Popovich's managerial style of resting some older key players for certain games, one of their competitors could catch a lucky break. The Grizzlies couldn't, as their 20 point defeat at the hands of the Spurs last night proved.
As the other fixtures go, it looks pretty clear cut as to who will win. However, the Suns beat the Thunder last night, so it is feasible that a similar upset could happen in the Grizzlies-Heat match-up, especially with Miami's stuttering form. Also, they could be saving stars like LeBron James and Dwayne Wade for the play-offs.
If Grizzlies are tied with any of the teams when the season's done, they will be guaranteed a play-off spot, as they are 3-0 against both the Mavericks and the Suns. If the Mavs and Suns tie, whoever wins the last remaining fixture between the sides will make the play-offs.
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| Dirk Nowitzki, Goran Dragic and Zach Randolph have all been pivotal to their team's play-offs chances this year. |
Looking at the fixtures still to be played, here are my predicted records.
7 - Dallas Mavericks (50-32)
8 - Phoenix Suns (49-31)
9 - Memphis Grizzlies (48-34)
I made quite a bold prediction, saying that the Suns would beat the Spurs. I said this because the Spurs have to play their rivals Rockets after this game. This means they may rest some stars such as Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan, in the hope that they can defeat Houston. Despite making my play-offs, I have the Suns down as losing both crunch matches. But due to the Grizzlies losing to both the Mavs and the Heat, they miss the cut.
With all these uncertainties, it's almost impossible to guess who will make the post-season out West. But one thing is for sure. Fans around the world will be thrilled by this race to the playoffs.
Out East, the play-off battle is much less entertaining, but still worth writing about. There are two teams in the running, the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a mathematical chance, but it's about as slight as the chances of Anthony Bennett winning Rookie of the Year. The Knicks are two games back with two games in hand over the Hawks. It seems that New York blew their best chance to catch Atlanta last night when they lost to the Heat (not helped by J.R. Smith's 22 3-point attempts). This loss was made worse by the fact that the Hawks defeated a poor Pacers team on the same night.
The Knicks have the harder schedule, having to play 4 teams already in the play-offs (Nets, Raptors twice and the Bulls) whereas the Hawks have to play "easier" sides with games against the Pistons, Celtics and the Bucks. It's hard to see a way for the Knicks to make their way into play-offs, a sentence that shouldn't be said when you look at their roster for this year.
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| Have Carmelo Anthony and the Knicks left it too late to make a playoff run? On the other hand, Paul Millsap and the Hawks look like they are going to make it into their 7th consecutive post-season. |
Saturday, 5 April 2014
Best (or is that Worst?) Draft Day Trades
Draft Day is known for it's trades. If a team picks a player they don't necessarily need, or want, they can try to do business with the other franchises. Most of the time, it is mutually beneficial for both sides, but sometimes it can go horribly, horribly wrong.
5 - Kevin Love Grizzlies to Timberwolves
Kevin Love is one of my favourite players and in 2008, he was involved in a big eight-player trade between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Along with the main event of Love and O.J Mayo switching teams, Memphis traded Mike Miller, Jason Collins and Brian Cardinal. Making the opposite journey were Greg Buckner, Marko Jaric and Antonie Walker.
Since then Love has gone on to establish himself as one of the best big men in the game, showing Memphis what they missed out on. At the minute, we have to watch Love's talents being wasted on a below par T'Wolves, when we could have seen him teaming with Marc Gasol in the frontcourt.
4 - Scottie Pippen Sonics to Bulls
Before setting up one of the biggest "Big Threes" of all time, Scottie Pippen was a member of the now obsolete Seattle Supersonics.
The small forward was then moved out to Chicago, with the centre Olden Polynice going in the other direction. Polynice averaged 7.8 points and 6.7 rebounds in his playing days, a solid career, but nothing to write home about.
Pippen, on the other hand, formed a dynasty with Michael Jordan and Dennis Rodman, and went on to win 6 rings. Without Pippen, it's likely that Jordan wouldn't have won his titles, and wouldn't be considered as one of the greats. Funny how things work out, isn't it ?
3 - Dirk Nowitzki Bucks to Mavericks
The best Mavericks player of all time, Dirk Nowitzki, started his career as a Milwaukee Buck. However, he was soon switching conferences to join a Dallas side who were stuck in a rut.
Since then, he has lead the Mavs to 12 post-season campaigns, with one of them resulting in a ring, in 2011. Individually, he has won an MVP award, 12 All-Star Appearances and a place in the 50-40-90 club.
In the other direction went Robert Traylor, who was touted to be the best big man in the draft. However, he struggled with injury problems and obesity in his respectable, but not sparkling career.
2 - Kobe Bryant Hornets to Lakers
Kobe entered the draft in 1996, as a fresh-faced 17 year-old straight out of high school. He was selected 13th by the Charlotte Hornets. However, Bryant wanted to play for one team, and one team only.
The Los Angeles Lakers.
Amazingly, the Hornets managed to work out a trade for the unproven "kid" of the NBA to his dream side. Centre Vlade Divac was sacrificed from the Lakers roster, despite being a good player for them and being on the back of his best season ever.
Looking back, the Lakers did a very good bit of business. Divac played a couple of seasons in Charlotte before moving out to Sacramento to lead their play-off run.
As for Kobe ? Well, you know the rest...
1 - Bill Russell St.Louis Hawks to Celtics
One of basketball's biggest risks ended up being a brilliant move by the Celtics head coach, Red Auberbach.
In the 1956 draft, Bill Russell was selected second by the St.Louis Hawks. Auberbach was so keen on the 6'10" centre, he was prepared to trade away Ed McCauley, the team's best player.
Although his plan seemed radical at the time, it panned out to be one of the best trades of all time. As well as acquiring Russell, the Celtics drafted Tom Heinsohn and K.C Jones on that night, two more staple parts in the most successful dynasty of all time.
McCauley still had a very successful career, picking up numerous All-Star appearances, and even a ring in a Hall of Fame career. But his success was no match for Russell who went on to win 11 rings in 13 years, as well as 5 MVP championships and 12 All-Star games. He is now considered one of the greatest centres, if not players, of all time.
If Russell didn't trade teams on that night, we could be sat here talking about the dynasty of the St.Louis Hawks.
Friday, 14 February 2014
All-Star Break Season Review
As the All-Star Weekend looms, you will see plenty of reviews of the season so far... philadelphia, 76ersSo, I thought I should do one. With each team comes a grade and an MVP.
Philadelphia 76ers
Grade : F - Where did it all go wrong ? The 76ers started the season 3-0, beating Miami in the process. Now, they have the worst defence in the league, a point that has been highlighted by two 40 point blowouts in the past week. They look like they're desperately trying to tank. With Nerlens Noel returning next season, and probably a high draft pick coming their way, the 76ers' future looks a bit brighter.
MVP: Michael Carter Williams - Although Evan Turner gets an honourable mention for his career best season, it's the the 11th pick in the 2013 draft has impressed pundits and fans. It's probably too early to say he could lead the Sixers to another Allen Iverson era, but the 'Rookie of the Year' award is certainly achievable for this point guard out of Syracuse.
Charlotte Bobcats
Grade : B - The Bobcats are currently occupying the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference, no mean feat considering teams like the Pistons, Knicks and Cavaliers (who have arguably assembled better squads) are currently missing out Most people would've missed them off their initial predictions, so it's looking good for Charlotte.
MVP : Al Jefferson - This guy is currently averaging 20 points and 10 rebounds in every game, a stat line that very few people in the league can match, yet he gets none of the headlines. This is possibly to do with Charlotte's 22-29 record this year, but regardless, Jefferson has been playing superbly.
Milwaukee Bucks
Grade : F - They have a 9-43 record. Need I say more ?
MVP: John Henson - With players such as Larry Sanders and O.J Mayo not having their greatest seasons, it has given a chance for someone else to shine in Milwaukee. Unfortunately, the Bucks have only won 9 games this season, making it difficult to pick their best player. Henson is the best of a bad bunch, and the rookie gives some hope for fans in the future.
Chicago Bulls
Grade : B - No Rose. No Deng. No problem. Well, they currently have an unexpected .500 record and are occupying a very good 4th seed. If only D-Rose could have stayed fit, then they probably would have been challenged for the top seed. Well done to Tom Thibodeau for making the best of a bad bunch.
MVP: Joakim Noah - If you asked anybody before the season who their pick for Bulls MVP was, they probably would have answered with Derrick Rose. However, yet another injury to the dynamic point guard has propelled Joakim Noah into the spotlight (again). This, paired with Luol Deng's move away to the Cavs (which has affected Noah) means that the centre is pivotal to Chicago's chances of making the play-offs.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Grade : D - It's a case of "must try harder" out in Cleveland. They have all the talent, with starters Kyrie and Luol Deng and Jarrett Jack coming off the bench, so where's it all going wrong ? There's rumours of players walking out of training, Mike Brown not having control over his roster. Whatever is going out there, it needs to stop if they're going to have any chances of making the post-season.
MVP: Kyrie Irving - Let's face it, Kyrie is not having a good season, but then again, neither are any of the Cavaliers. I picked them as a dark horse to achieve something substantial this season, and they have let me down completely, with an appalling 18-33 record. Irving is still averaging 20 points and 6 assists a game, enough to put him in the All-Star game.
Boston Celtics
Grade : D - But it's an expected low grade for Boston. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Doc Rivers all left in the pre-season, whilst Rajon Rondo has been injured for half the season. The Celtics could potentially have 9 first-round draft picks in the next 5 years. Now that, is what you call re-building.
MVP:Jeff Green - Although the numbers point to sophomore Jared Sullinger (just), I feel that Green has had a bigger role in helping the Celtics through a period without Pierce, Garnett, Rivers and Rondo. He is a leader to younger players and has had a big effect in a few games (game-winner against the Heat comes to mind). Now that Rondo has returned, don't be surprised to see the point guard return to the top of the Celtics' top players.
Los Angeles Clippers
Grade : B - I had my doubts about the Clippers at the beginning of the season. Is Blake Griffin the real deal ? Just what is so good about DeAndre Jordan ? Can they shoot a ball, or is it dunks only out there ? But they have proved me wrong (well, I still don't like Jordan). They are turning into genuine contenders for the Western Conference top spot, and with Chris Paul returning, it can only get better.
MVP: Blake Griffin - Yes, Chris Paul is brilliant and, yes, he is the best point guard in the NBA currently, but he has been injured for a month. And during that period, people predicted that the Clippers would go off the rails. But, Blake kept them as strong contenders in the West. When it gets to the end of the season, Paul's month out may not affect people's views, but for now, Griffin is the man of the moment.
Memphis Grizzlies
Grade :C - Currently 1.5 games off a play-off spot, the Grizzlies are having a better season than many predicted. There's not much to say about their offence, apart from it's been poor... very poor. It's their defence that is keeping them in contention for the post-season. It's the third best in the league, and that's without their defensive rock, Marc Gasol.
MVP: Mike Conley - Only just though. Zach Randolph has had a good season, but with him rumoured to be on the trading block, I thought I'd give it to the Ohio State guard. Conley isn't having the greatest season of his career (statistically, anyway), but it's still enough to make him his team's best player, mainly due to Marc Gasol's absence.
Atlanta Hawks
Grade : C - Yes, they are currently sitting in the 5th seed, but they have a sub .500 record (just), so it's a bit hard to grade them. A 'C' grade is probably a bit low considering they're over-achieving on their targets, but the East is so poor this year, their position just pale into insignificance.
MVP: Paul Millsap - Millsap was selected for his first All-Star appearance this year and it's not hard to see why. Not only has he led the Hawks to nearly .500 and a playoff place in the Eastern Conference so far, and he's done it without Al Horford for half of the season. His FG% is down, but this is due to the fact that he takes more shots.
Miami Heat
Grade : A - They're only second in the East (shock, horror, etc) but they still look like serious contenders for their third straight title. If LeBron is only in third gear, teams must fear what the Heat can do later in the season. I still think they'll win the Eastern Conference, the Pacers will run them close though.
MVP: LeBron James - Is he coasting ? Is he even bothered about the regular season ? Why won't he appear in a dunk contest ? Despite all these questions, one thing is undisputed. He is one of the greatest in the game right now (I wouldn't go as far as saying all-time... yet). He may be "coasting" but the man is still averaging 26 points a game. If that's taking it easy, what will he be like when he gets to the play-offs (which actually "matter").
Utah Jazz
Grade : F - The Jazz are having a bad season, but have been improving after starting the season with a 1-16 record. Rookie Trey Burke has played the point guard role efficiently and Gordon Hayward has impressed again this season.
MVP:Gordon Hayward - Trey Burke would've been in with a shout of this award had he not missed the opening 10 or so games at the beginning of the season. So, instead, it goes to Gordon Hayward. To be honest, it's a coin-toss between him and Derrick Favors. Hayward edges just because he had to deal with John Lucas III for Burke's absence.
Sacramento Kings
Grade : F - They're the worst team in the Western Conference, yet they have DeMarcus Cousins, Rudy Gay and Isaiah Thomas ? That has to go down as a definite F in my book. They have no hope of making the play-offs now, so they're just making up the numbers until next season.
MVP:DeMarcus Cousins - Was it ever going to be anyone else ? Despite being a bit, erm, unlovable shall we say, in his antics, you can't argue with him on court. He's part of the 20-10 club, and definitely one of the biggest snubs for the All-Star game (he probably lost out due to the fact he's not exactly a "fan favourite"). Shaq's teaching has served Boogie well.
New York Knicks
Grade : D - After an awful start to the season in 2013, the Knicks looked like they were back in form in January. However, in February, they have only won one game out of a possible 6, including embarrassing losses to conference-worst teams Sacramento and Milwaukee. Don't be surprised if you don't see the Knicks in the play-offs this year.
MVP:Carmelo Anthony - Another obvious pick really. New York has had a disappointing season, and Melo has been the only stand out player... Well apart from J.R Smith but he stands out for different reasons. If Anthony does leave in Free Agency (an ever-growing probability), then I see the Knicks struggling in the future, but until then, he will try his best to keep his team in play-off contention.
Los Angeles Lakers
Grade : F - Yes, they've had a ton of injuries to their stars. And yes, they have probably one of their worst squads ever, but the Lakers still suck this year. Their main problem has been consistency. One minute, they're pushing the Heat for the win, the next they're losing at home to the Jazz. Only winning 2 from the past 12 hasn't helped either.
MVP:Pau Gasol - This was a tough decision as none of the Lakers roster has been consistent enough to be considered as having a good season. Kobe and Steve Nash have been injured, Jordan Hill, Xavier Henry and Kendall Marshall have all had flares of brilliance, but have been lukewarm for the most part. Gasol has probably been their best player, yet he's received plenty of criticism and is rumoured to be on the brink of being traded, so what do I know ?
Orlando Magic
Grade : D - Another poor season out in Orlando who still haven't really recovered from Dwight Howard leaving in 2012. Nikola Vucevic showed some signs of being up to the job of trying to replace him, but his concussion left the Magic without a natural center. In my opinion, they just have too many average players.
MVP:Arron Afflalo - Vucevic had a serious claim to this title, but his injury derailed his chances. Arron Afflalo has had his minutes increased by the Magic coaching staff, and the shooting guard out of UCLA hasn't let them down, increasing his stats proportionally.
Dallas Mavericks
Grade :B - The Mavericks have very quietly sneaked into the 6th seed in the West. Monta Ellis and Dirk have been the main reasons for that, but when you look at the situation out in Dallas, they have a good squad. If you've got experienced players like Vince Carter and Devin Harris coming off the bench, then you always have the chance of having a good season.
MVP:Dirk Nowitzki - The experienced German is having yet another fantastic season at the top of his game. He's effective inside and out and a whole bunch of other cliches that you've already heard about his talents. Dirk's still averaging 35 minutes a game, despite turning 35 in the off-season. Long may his reign continue
Brooklyn Nets
Grade : C - The Nets have had a season very like they're east coast rivals New York. They also started very poorly, and are now bringing it back. The Nets have been more successful though, and are currently occupying a play-off berth. Not a bad first season as Head Coach for Jason Kidd, but it could have been so much better.
MVP:Joe Johnson -Johnson was a surprise pick for the All-Star game, especially when you look at his stats and compare them to say, Lance Stephenson. They're not mind-blowing but he's been the top dog in Brooklyn, especially with Deron Williams' injury and the Pierce and Garnett trade not working as well as planned. Bit of another "best of a bad bunch" situation out in Brooklyn.
Denver Nuggets
Grade : C - When JaVale McGee fractured his leg 5 games into the season, two sets of fans were upset. The Nuggets fan base, as they had lost their first choice center, and Shaqtin' a Fool fans, who now have a lot less funny clips to laugh at. J.J Hickson and Timofey Mozgov have been okay replacements, but not enough to turn the Nuggets into serious contenders.
MVP: Ty Lawson - I didn't realise just how well Ty Lawson was playing until I looked at his stats. The diminutive point guard is averaging 18 points and 8 assists a game, making him one of the most effective point guards in the league. Denver will be hoping that his rib fracture is healed as quickly as possible.
Indiana Pacers
Grade : A+ - The Indiana Pacers have surprised everyone by surpassing the Heat as the top dog in the Eastern Conference. Although I wonder how they're gonna stay there for the rest of the season, they have certainly impressed with the best defence in the league. Can they win it all ? You certainly can't rule them out.
MVP: Paul George- Despite Roy Hibbert being a Defensive Player of the Year contender, and Lance Stephenson putting up great numbers, you can't argue with the superstar status Paul George has acquired over the past year. In the 2013 All-Star voting process, George didn't even feature in the top 15 East guards, meaning he garnered last then 90,000 votes. This year he got 1.2 million. If this stratospheric rise is a sign of things to come, the NBA has a new hero.
New Orleans Pelicans
Grade :D - The Pelicans came into the season with hope that a new franchise and a new arena would help them towards the playoffs. However, injuries to Anthony Davis and Ryan Anderson have halted that dream for yet another year. They're probably too far behind the 8th seed to make a serious bid for the playoffs.
MVP:Anthony Davis - 2012's number 1 pick missed the back end of last season due to a knee injury. However, he looks to be back to full health - barring his broken hand - this season. He's in the 20 points, 10 rebounds club and is also averaging 3 blocks a game. I'm calling it now that this guy could be a Hall of Fame'r in years to come.
Detroit Pistons
Grade : C - The Pistons recently fired head coach Mo Cheeks because there "record does not reflect our talent". I have to agree, but I'm not sure if firing Cheeks was a good idea. Detroit are still in contention for the playoffs and there are a lot of teams in worse situations who have stuck by their coaching staff. Anyway, I predict they'll make it into the playoffs.
MVP: Andre Drummond - Another big man having a good season, Drummond is expanding on an impressive rookie season where he averaged a double double per game. He seems to be stuck in a team with under-achievers (*cough* J-Smoove) but his ability to impress through that just highlights his talents.
Toronto Raptors
Grade : A - Currently sitting pretty in the 3rd seed, and leading the Atlantic division ahead of team like the Nets and Knicks, the Raptors are doing quite the opposite of the tanking they were predicted to be doing this year. It seems to me that no-one is a massive star in Toronto, which helps the team's morale.
MVP: DeMar DeRozan (Just) - This was probably the hardest decision I had to make in the whole post. Kyle Lowry is having a very good season, averaging 17 points and 7.6 assists a game, but the fact that DeRozan was picked for his first All-Star appearance has just nudged it in his favour.
Houston Rockets
Grade : A - There were worries at the beginning of the season about whether James Harden and Dwight Howard would click, after Dwight's troublesome season with the Lakers. These critics shouldn't have feared. The two All-Stars have worked together brilliantly and the rest of the team has fitted around them perfectly.
MVP:James Harden - One half of the most efficient pick and roll teams in the NBA and the owner of the best beard in the league, the shooting guard out of Arizona State is having his best season yet. An All-Star selection, 24 points a game, and 5 assists, shows why he is a class act, and one of the NBA's biggest stars.
San Antonio Spurs
Grade :A - The evergreen Spurs are near the top of the Western Conference. Again. They're leading their division. Again.
Veterans like Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili are proving those who say "they're too old" wrong. Again.
I could insert any season review for the Spurs from the past 5 years, and it would still be relevant.
MVP:Tim Duncan - Timmy D has been in the league for 16 years now, and shows little, or no, signs of slowing down. He's back to averaging a double-double, which harks back to his early years, when he managed it 13 seasons in a row. With the experience of Tim, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, and head coach Gregg Popovich, you can never rule the Spurs out.
Phoenix Suns
Grade :B - Most pundits thought that the Suns were going to have a horrible season, most saying they would finish at the bottom of the Western Conference. Yet Phoenix are currently 7th. This is part due to head coach Jeff Hornacek having a fantastic first full season in charge, but it is mainly down to players like Goran Dragic, Eric Bledsoe and Gerald Green having career best seasons. All three are in the running for the "Most Improved Player" award.
MVP:Goran Dragic - Yugoslavian born Goran Dragic is one of my favourite point guards in the league at the minute (I know he's classed as a shooting guard but he plays the 1 spot for the Suns). He's effective at both ends of the court, and has nearly doubled the amount of points he scores per game. An All-Star spot must be calling at some time, surely ?
Oklahoma City Thunder
Grade :A+ - Top of the Western Conference by 4 games, having the current scoring leader and MVP on your side, and all this without your starting point guard ? Things are looking pretty rosy down in Oklahoma.
MVP: Kevin Durant- Not only the Thunder MVP, Kevin Durant is my MVP of the season so far. His shooting form is sublime, his passing and rebounding have been very good and he has lead his team to the best record in the West. I mean, he has averaged 31 points a game, and has just come off a run of 12 games, scoring 30+ points. He's also done all this without Russell Westbrook, proving once and for all, that the Durantula is a stand alone superstar.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Grade :D - The only reason this grade is as high as it is, is because of Kevin Love. Once you take him out of the equation, the Timberwolves aren't left with much of a team. If he does trade himself away in this off-season, Minnesota could seriously struggle without him.
MVP:Kevin Love - He started off like a genuine MVP contender at the beginning of the season, but a few poor games, and the fact that he plays for the T'Wolves meant that bid has slowed down. However, he is still scoring like there's no tomorrow, and if he gets a trade to a more competitive team, we could see the 25 year old as a future MVP contender.
Portland Trail Blazers
Grade : A - Portland came out nowhere this season, and elevated to the heights of the Western Conference. Their form has slipped a bit recently, but they are still joint third in their tough conference. Head Coach Terry Stotts must be in the running for Coach of the Year.
MVP:LaMarcus Aldridge - Props to Damian Lillard, I'm glad he made the All-Star team, but you have to give the MVP nod to big man LaMarcus Aldridge. He has seemed unstoppable this season and has been the key part in Portland's blazing (har de har) rise to the top. I look forward to watching him in the All-Star game, and the remainder of the season.
Golden State Warriors
Grade :C - With the talent the Warriors have on their roster, they should be doing better than the 8th seed in the West. They're also 3rd in their division, behind the Phoenix Suns. Luckily, they have a relatively young team who can expand in the next few seasons.
MVP:Stephen Curry - The NBA leader in assists per game. Scoring 24.6 points a game. People saying he is included in one of best shooting partnerships of all time ("The Splash Brothers", joining with Klay Thompson). Could it get better for Stephen Curry ? This kid has a bright future ahead of him, and has improved so much already in his short professional career.
Washington Wizards
Grade : C - Another team making the East playoffs with a sub .500 record, Washington also benefits from the Eastern conference being appalling this year. The Wizards' backcourt duo of John Wall and Bradley Beal offers promise for the future, whilst Marcin Gortat is still solid at the center position.
MVP:John Wall - John Wall has possibly been the only reason that Washington are in the play-offs (it's also due to some team massively under performing, looking at you New York and Cleveland). Wall has been good offensively, and his defence has impressed as well. He has the highest blocks per game average for point guards.
Philadelphia 76ers
Grade : F - Where did it all go wrong ? The 76ers started the season 3-0, beating Miami in the process. Now, they have the worst defence in the league, a point that has been highlighted by two 40 point blowouts in the past week. They look like they're desperately trying to tank. With Nerlens Noel returning next season, and probably a high draft pick coming their way, the 76ers' future looks a bit brighter.
MVP: Michael Carter Williams - Although Evan Turner gets an honourable mention for his career best season, it's the the 11th pick in the 2013 draft has impressed pundits and fans. It's probably too early to say he could lead the Sixers to another Allen Iverson era, but the 'Rookie of the Year' award is certainly achievable for this point guard out of Syracuse.
Charlotte Bobcats
Grade : B - The Bobcats are currently occupying the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference, no mean feat considering teams like the Pistons, Knicks and Cavaliers (who have arguably assembled better squads) are currently missing out Most people would've missed them off their initial predictions, so it's looking good for Charlotte.
MVP : Al Jefferson - This guy is currently averaging 20 points and 10 rebounds in every game, a stat line that very few people in the league can match, yet he gets none of the headlines. This is possibly to do with Charlotte's 22-29 record this year, but regardless, Jefferson has been playing superbly.
Milwaukee Bucks
Grade : F - They have a 9-43 record. Need I say more ?
MVP: John Henson - With players such as Larry Sanders and O.J Mayo not having their greatest seasons, it has given a chance for someone else to shine in Milwaukee. Unfortunately, the Bucks have only won 9 games this season, making it difficult to pick their best player. Henson is the best of a bad bunch, and the rookie gives some hope for fans in the future.
Chicago Bulls
Grade : B - No Rose. No Deng. No problem. Well, they currently have an unexpected .500 record and are occupying a very good 4th seed. If only D-Rose could have stayed fit, then they probably would have been challenged for the top seed. Well done to Tom Thibodeau for making the best of a bad bunch.
MVP: Joakim Noah - If you asked anybody before the season who their pick for Bulls MVP was, they probably would have answered with Derrick Rose. However, yet another injury to the dynamic point guard has propelled Joakim Noah into the spotlight (again). This, paired with Luol Deng's move away to the Cavs (which has affected Noah) means that the centre is pivotal to Chicago's chances of making the play-offs.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Grade : D - It's a case of "must try harder" out in Cleveland. They have all the talent, with starters Kyrie and Luol Deng and Jarrett Jack coming off the bench, so where's it all going wrong ? There's rumours of players walking out of training, Mike Brown not having control over his roster. Whatever is going out there, it needs to stop if they're going to have any chances of making the post-season.
MVP: Kyrie Irving - Let's face it, Kyrie is not having a good season, but then again, neither are any of the Cavaliers. I picked them as a dark horse to achieve something substantial this season, and they have let me down completely, with an appalling 18-33 record. Irving is still averaging 20 points and 6 assists a game, enough to put him in the All-Star game.
Boston Celtics
Grade : D - But it's an expected low grade for Boston. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Doc Rivers all left in the pre-season, whilst Rajon Rondo has been injured for half the season. The Celtics could potentially have 9 first-round draft picks in the next 5 years. Now that, is what you call re-building.
MVP:Jeff Green - Although the numbers point to sophomore Jared Sullinger (just), I feel that Green has had a bigger role in helping the Celtics through a period without Pierce, Garnett, Rivers and Rondo. He is a leader to younger players and has had a big effect in a few games (game-winner against the Heat comes to mind). Now that Rondo has returned, don't be surprised to see the point guard return to the top of the Celtics' top players.
Los Angeles Clippers
Grade : B - I had my doubts about the Clippers at the beginning of the season. Is Blake Griffin the real deal ? Just what is so good about DeAndre Jordan ? Can they shoot a ball, or is it dunks only out there ? But they have proved me wrong (well, I still don't like Jordan). They are turning into genuine contenders for the Western Conference top spot, and with Chris Paul returning, it can only get better.
MVP: Blake Griffin - Yes, Chris Paul is brilliant and, yes, he is the best point guard in the NBA currently, but he has been injured for a month. And during that period, people predicted that the Clippers would go off the rails. But, Blake kept them as strong contenders in the West. When it gets to the end of the season, Paul's month out may not affect people's views, but for now, Griffin is the man of the moment.
Memphis Grizzlies
Grade :C - Currently 1.5 games off a play-off spot, the Grizzlies are having a better season than many predicted. There's not much to say about their offence, apart from it's been poor... very poor. It's their defence that is keeping them in contention for the post-season. It's the third best in the league, and that's without their defensive rock, Marc Gasol.
MVP: Mike Conley - Only just though. Zach Randolph has had a good season, but with him rumoured to be on the trading block, I thought I'd give it to the Ohio State guard. Conley isn't having the greatest season of his career (statistically, anyway), but it's still enough to make him his team's best player, mainly due to Marc Gasol's absence.
Atlanta Hawks
Grade : C - Yes, they are currently sitting in the 5th seed, but they have a sub .500 record (just), so it's a bit hard to grade them. A 'C' grade is probably a bit low considering they're over-achieving on their targets, but the East is so poor this year, their position just pale into insignificance.
MVP: Paul Millsap - Millsap was selected for his first All-Star appearance this year and it's not hard to see why. Not only has he led the Hawks to nearly .500 and a playoff place in the Eastern Conference so far, and he's done it without Al Horford for half of the season. His FG% is down, but this is due to the fact that he takes more shots.
Miami Heat
Grade : A - They're only second in the East (shock, horror, etc) but they still look like serious contenders for their third straight title. If LeBron is only in third gear, teams must fear what the Heat can do later in the season. I still think they'll win the Eastern Conference, the Pacers will run them close though.
MVP: LeBron James - Is he coasting ? Is he even bothered about the regular season ? Why won't he appear in a dunk contest ? Despite all these questions, one thing is undisputed. He is one of the greatest in the game right now (I wouldn't go as far as saying all-time... yet). He may be "coasting" but the man is still averaging 26 points a game. If that's taking it easy, what will he be like when he gets to the play-offs (which actually "matter").
Utah Jazz
Grade : F - The Jazz are having a bad season, but have been improving after starting the season with a 1-16 record. Rookie Trey Burke has played the point guard role efficiently and Gordon Hayward has impressed again this season.
MVP:Gordon Hayward - Trey Burke would've been in with a shout of this award had he not missed the opening 10 or so games at the beginning of the season. So, instead, it goes to Gordon Hayward. To be honest, it's a coin-toss between him and Derrick Favors. Hayward edges just because he had to deal with John Lucas III for Burke's absence.
Sacramento Kings
Grade : F - They're the worst team in the Western Conference, yet they have DeMarcus Cousins, Rudy Gay and Isaiah Thomas ? That has to go down as a definite F in my book. They have no hope of making the play-offs now, so they're just making up the numbers until next season.
MVP:DeMarcus Cousins - Was it ever going to be anyone else ? Despite being a bit, erm, unlovable shall we say, in his antics, you can't argue with him on court. He's part of the 20-10 club, and definitely one of the biggest snubs for the All-Star game (he probably lost out due to the fact he's not exactly a "fan favourite"). Shaq's teaching has served Boogie well.
New York Knicks
Grade : D - After an awful start to the season in 2013, the Knicks looked like they were back in form in January. However, in February, they have only won one game out of a possible 6, including embarrassing losses to conference-worst teams Sacramento and Milwaukee. Don't be surprised if you don't see the Knicks in the play-offs this year.
MVP:Carmelo Anthony - Another obvious pick really. New York has had a disappointing season, and Melo has been the only stand out player... Well apart from J.R Smith but he stands out for different reasons. If Anthony does leave in Free Agency (an ever-growing probability), then I see the Knicks struggling in the future, but until then, he will try his best to keep his team in play-off contention.
Los Angeles Lakers
Grade : F - Yes, they've had a ton of injuries to their stars. And yes, they have probably one of their worst squads ever, but the Lakers still suck this year. Their main problem has been consistency. One minute, they're pushing the Heat for the win, the next they're losing at home to the Jazz. Only winning 2 from the past 12 hasn't helped either.
MVP:Pau Gasol - This was a tough decision as none of the Lakers roster has been consistent enough to be considered as having a good season. Kobe and Steve Nash have been injured, Jordan Hill, Xavier Henry and Kendall Marshall have all had flares of brilliance, but have been lukewarm for the most part. Gasol has probably been their best player, yet he's received plenty of criticism and is rumoured to be on the brink of being traded, so what do I know ?
Orlando Magic
Grade : D - Another poor season out in Orlando who still haven't really recovered from Dwight Howard leaving in 2012. Nikola Vucevic showed some signs of being up to the job of trying to replace him, but his concussion left the Magic without a natural center. In my opinion, they just have too many average players.
MVP:Arron Afflalo - Vucevic had a serious claim to this title, but his injury derailed his chances. Arron Afflalo has had his minutes increased by the Magic coaching staff, and the shooting guard out of UCLA hasn't let them down, increasing his stats proportionally.
Dallas Mavericks
Grade :B - The Mavericks have very quietly sneaked into the 6th seed in the West. Monta Ellis and Dirk have been the main reasons for that, but when you look at the situation out in Dallas, they have a good squad. If you've got experienced players like Vince Carter and Devin Harris coming off the bench, then you always have the chance of having a good season.
MVP:Dirk Nowitzki - The experienced German is having yet another fantastic season at the top of his game. He's effective inside and out and a whole bunch of other cliches that you've already heard about his talents. Dirk's still averaging 35 minutes a game, despite turning 35 in the off-season. Long may his reign continue
Brooklyn Nets
Grade : C - The Nets have had a season very like they're east coast rivals New York. They also started very poorly, and are now bringing it back. The Nets have been more successful though, and are currently occupying a play-off berth. Not a bad first season as Head Coach for Jason Kidd, but it could have been so much better.
MVP:Joe Johnson -Johnson was a surprise pick for the All-Star game, especially when you look at his stats and compare them to say, Lance Stephenson. They're not mind-blowing but he's been the top dog in Brooklyn, especially with Deron Williams' injury and the Pierce and Garnett trade not working as well as planned. Bit of another "best of a bad bunch" situation out in Brooklyn.
Denver Nuggets
Grade : C - When JaVale McGee fractured his leg 5 games into the season, two sets of fans were upset. The Nuggets fan base, as they had lost their first choice center, and Shaqtin' a Fool fans, who now have a lot less funny clips to laugh at. J.J Hickson and Timofey Mozgov have been okay replacements, but not enough to turn the Nuggets into serious contenders.
MVP: Ty Lawson - I didn't realise just how well Ty Lawson was playing until I looked at his stats. The diminutive point guard is averaging 18 points and 8 assists a game, making him one of the most effective point guards in the league. Denver will be hoping that his rib fracture is healed as quickly as possible.
Indiana Pacers
Grade : A+ - The Indiana Pacers have surprised everyone by surpassing the Heat as the top dog in the Eastern Conference. Although I wonder how they're gonna stay there for the rest of the season, they have certainly impressed with the best defence in the league. Can they win it all ? You certainly can't rule them out.
MVP: Paul George- Despite Roy Hibbert being a Defensive Player of the Year contender, and Lance Stephenson putting up great numbers, you can't argue with the superstar status Paul George has acquired over the past year. In the 2013 All-Star voting process, George didn't even feature in the top 15 East guards, meaning he garnered last then 90,000 votes. This year he got 1.2 million. If this stratospheric rise is a sign of things to come, the NBA has a new hero.
New Orleans Pelicans
Grade :D - The Pelicans came into the season with hope that a new franchise and a new arena would help them towards the playoffs. However, injuries to Anthony Davis and Ryan Anderson have halted that dream for yet another year. They're probably too far behind the 8th seed to make a serious bid for the playoffs.
MVP:Anthony Davis - 2012's number 1 pick missed the back end of last season due to a knee injury. However, he looks to be back to full health - barring his broken hand - this season. He's in the 20 points, 10 rebounds club and is also averaging 3 blocks a game. I'm calling it now that this guy could be a Hall of Fame'r in years to come.
Detroit Pistons
Grade : C - The Pistons recently fired head coach Mo Cheeks because there "record does not reflect our talent". I have to agree, but I'm not sure if firing Cheeks was a good idea. Detroit are still in contention for the playoffs and there are a lot of teams in worse situations who have stuck by their coaching staff. Anyway, I predict they'll make it into the playoffs.
MVP: Andre Drummond - Another big man having a good season, Drummond is expanding on an impressive rookie season where he averaged a double double per game. He seems to be stuck in a team with under-achievers (*cough* J-Smoove) but his ability to impress through that just highlights his talents.
Toronto Raptors
Grade : A - Currently sitting pretty in the 3rd seed, and leading the Atlantic division ahead of team like the Nets and Knicks, the Raptors are doing quite the opposite of the tanking they were predicted to be doing this year. It seems to me that no-one is a massive star in Toronto, which helps the team's morale.
MVP: DeMar DeRozan (Just) - This was probably the hardest decision I had to make in the whole post. Kyle Lowry is having a very good season, averaging 17 points and 7.6 assists a game, but the fact that DeRozan was picked for his first All-Star appearance has just nudged it in his favour.
Houston Rockets
Grade : A - There were worries at the beginning of the season about whether James Harden and Dwight Howard would click, after Dwight's troublesome season with the Lakers. These critics shouldn't have feared. The two All-Stars have worked together brilliantly and the rest of the team has fitted around them perfectly.
MVP:James Harden - One half of the most efficient pick and roll teams in the NBA and the owner of the best beard in the league, the shooting guard out of Arizona State is having his best season yet. An All-Star selection, 24 points a game, and 5 assists, shows why he is a class act, and one of the NBA's biggest stars.
San Antonio Spurs
Grade :A - The evergreen Spurs are near the top of the Western Conference. Again. They're leading their division. Again.
Veterans like Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili are proving those who say "they're too old" wrong. Again.
I could insert any season review for the Spurs from the past 5 years, and it would still be relevant.
MVP:Tim Duncan - Timmy D has been in the league for 16 years now, and shows little, or no, signs of slowing down. He's back to averaging a double-double, which harks back to his early years, when he managed it 13 seasons in a row. With the experience of Tim, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, and head coach Gregg Popovich, you can never rule the Spurs out.
Phoenix Suns
Grade :B - Most pundits thought that the Suns were going to have a horrible season, most saying they would finish at the bottom of the Western Conference. Yet Phoenix are currently 7th. This is part due to head coach Jeff Hornacek having a fantastic first full season in charge, but it is mainly down to players like Goran Dragic, Eric Bledsoe and Gerald Green having career best seasons. All three are in the running for the "Most Improved Player" award.
MVP:Goran Dragic - Yugoslavian born Goran Dragic is one of my favourite point guards in the league at the minute (I know he's classed as a shooting guard but he plays the 1 spot for the Suns). He's effective at both ends of the court, and has nearly doubled the amount of points he scores per game. An All-Star spot must be calling at some time, surely ?
Oklahoma City Thunder
Grade :A+ - Top of the Western Conference by 4 games, having the current scoring leader and MVP on your side, and all this without your starting point guard ? Things are looking pretty rosy down in Oklahoma.
MVP: Kevin Durant- Not only the Thunder MVP, Kevin Durant is my MVP of the season so far. His shooting form is sublime, his passing and rebounding have been very good and he has lead his team to the best record in the West. I mean, he has averaged 31 points a game, and has just come off a run of 12 games, scoring 30+ points. He's also done all this without Russell Westbrook, proving once and for all, that the Durantula is a stand alone superstar.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Grade :D - The only reason this grade is as high as it is, is because of Kevin Love. Once you take him out of the equation, the Timberwolves aren't left with much of a team. If he does trade himself away in this off-season, Minnesota could seriously struggle without him.
MVP:Kevin Love - He started off like a genuine MVP contender at the beginning of the season, but a few poor games, and the fact that he plays for the T'Wolves meant that bid has slowed down. However, he is still scoring like there's no tomorrow, and if he gets a trade to a more competitive team, we could see the 25 year old as a future MVP contender.
Portland Trail Blazers
Grade : A - Portland came out nowhere this season, and elevated to the heights of the Western Conference. Their form has slipped a bit recently, but they are still joint third in their tough conference. Head Coach Terry Stotts must be in the running for Coach of the Year.
MVP:LaMarcus Aldridge - Props to Damian Lillard, I'm glad he made the All-Star team, but you have to give the MVP nod to big man LaMarcus Aldridge. He has seemed unstoppable this season and has been the key part in Portland's blazing (har de har) rise to the top. I look forward to watching him in the All-Star game, and the remainder of the season.
Golden State Warriors
Grade :C - With the talent the Warriors have on their roster, they should be doing better than the 8th seed in the West. They're also 3rd in their division, behind the Phoenix Suns. Luckily, they have a relatively young team who can expand in the next few seasons.
MVP:Stephen Curry - The NBA leader in assists per game. Scoring 24.6 points a game. People saying he is included in one of best shooting partnerships of all time ("The Splash Brothers", joining with Klay Thompson). Could it get better for Stephen Curry ? This kid has a bright future ahead of him, and has improved so much already in his short professional career.
Washington Wizards
Grade : C - Another team making the East playoffs with a sub .500 record, Washington also benefits from the Eastern conference being appalling this year. The Wizards' backcourt duo of John Wall and Bradley Beal offers promise for the future, whilst Marcin Gortat is still solid at the center position.
MVP:John Wall - John Wall has possibly been the only reason that Washington are in the play-offs (it's also due to some team massively under performing, looking at you New York and Cleveland). Wall has been good offensively, and his defence has impressed as well. He has the highest blocks per game average for point guards.
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