SLAM LAST UPDATED » May 9, 2008 at 5:26 pm

Monday, March 24th, 2008  |  235 Comments

The Post Up: Hornets Sting Celtics

While Captain Jack has ice water flowing in those veins

By: Holly MacKenzie

Eastern Conference

1. Boston 55-14

2. Detroit 49-20

3. Orlando 46-26

4. Cleveland 40-31

5. Toronto 35-35

6. Washington 36-33

7. Philadelphia 35-35

8. Atlanta 30-39
————————

9. New Jersey 29-41

10. Indiana 29-41

Western Conference

1. New Orleans 47-21

2. LA Lakers 48-22

3. Phoenix 47-22

4. Utah 46-25

5. Houston 47-23

6. San Antonio 47-23

7. Dallas 44-26

8. Golden State 43-26
—————————-

9.Denver 42-28

10. Portland 37-33

March Madness, NCAA, NBA, so much basketball. I don’t think my tv was turned off for more than a few hours the entire weekend. Yeah, this might sound horrible to spend so much time sitting in front of the television on a holiday weekend, but to me it was pure sweetness. I feel happily fulfilled, despite a Laker loss that had me hopping.

Friday night gave me…. Trevor Ariza looking beautiful in his beautiful suit, sitting on the bench. While the Lakers await the return of Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum and ‘Riza, it’s nice to see them sitting on the bench, looking as close to healthy as possible.

The Laker game last night was a story of two halves, and the story of Stephen Jackson. Giving up 72 points in the first half, then coming back to take the lead with five minutes remaining, it was a wild ride. Kobe hitting those back to back threes in the final 54 seconds was crazy, but inside I just knew it was all about Jax. That we allowed him to get wide open beyond the arc on consecutive possessions drove me crazy, but I was still entertained watching that game. At least the second half.

I couldn’t even get a little upset when I saw Baron go over and brush off Captain Jack. Guy is good. Really, really good.

Play of the night? “Kobe’s behind-the-back dribble to get past Baron, spin move to leave Jax for dead, and then a wrap-around, semi-behind-the-back pass around Harrington to give Turiaf an open dunk”. I couldn’t agree more, Tariq.

Tonight’s rematch in Oakland will be intense. I can’t wait.

To speak about injuries again, I’m pulling for Dirk to have the speediest of recoveries from that nasty looking leg injury yesterday afternoon. I don’t like the Kidd trade at all for Dallas, I’d rather Denver make the playoffs and the Mavericks have been kind of boring this season, but I still hate to see an injury affect a team this late in the season. Dirk, get well.

My heart is pulling for Gil and this craziness that is surrounding his return. It’s only normal to be cautious returning from back to back surgeries. Then to have different reactions and diagnoses with regards to that comeback doesn’t make it any easier. Now, after Gil had all but psyched himself up to play in his first game back the Wizards medical staff steps in and tells him he is not ready. From psyching himself up to the doc’s psyching him out, it’s just harsh. I’m glad they held him back if they feel he needs more time because I want him healthy just as much as anyone else, but damn, isn’t there any smoother way to make this happen? Thinking of you, Mr. Arenas.

Toronto continues to struggle and it isn’t pretty. 11 losses in their last 14 games. Ivy and Carmelo put on a show yesterday as they outshone Bosh who was pretty great in the first three quarters.

Congratulations to LeBron who has become the Cavaliers all-time leading scorer. Scary when this doesn’t even seem like a big deal because we all know this is only one of the many, many milestones he will reach in his career.

While our boy Russ gave us some of his game notes of a young Stephen Curry, I got to see clips of an 11 year-old Curry shooting lights out at the ACC when his dad was with the Raptors. Crazy, the kid was shooting from damn near halfcourt. What a tourney he has had so far. Those 40 points were just incredible.

My bracket is dead and I could not be happier. These upsets, overtime games and big performances? Perfect opening round.

Not to sound like a broken record, but CP3. It was fun watching the Hornets do what the Texas trio couldn’t do as they took down the Celtics. I wonder what Rafer Alston has to say about David West’s 37 points because we know each and every one was meant for him. Also, have to mention the play of Pargo and Bonzi. The Hornets bench has been looking nice.

Phoenix continues to learn how to play with Shaq and Amare continues to reap the benefits. 38 in their win against Houston. Most impressive, those 38 points came on only 15 shots as he connected on 9-15 from the floor and shot a franchise-record 20-20 from the free throw line. That is pretty special. Now, give us some D and things will get interesting in Phoenix.

Washington 95 Detroit 83

While the Wizards learned on Sunday that they will have to wait longer for the return of Gilbert Arenas, they shook the news off and showed once again, they are not only their superstar. The Wizards went on to knock down Detroit 95-83, using strong first and fourth quarters to hold off the Pistons and grab their 36th victory on the season. After leading 28-20 at the end of the first quarter, the Wizards went up by as many as 12 and never gave up their advantage the rest of the way through. The Pistons would get as close as four points early in the fourth but Washington met each mini-push by Detroit with one of their own, keeping control of the game and going on to the victory. The Wizards were led by Antawn Jamison who had 24 points and 12 rebounds. Caron Butler had 17 points and 6 assists, Brendan Haywood scored 16 points and DeShawn Stevenson added 12 points. Richard Hamilton had 19 points for the Pistons, Chauncey Billups had 11 points and 11 assists, Tayshaun Prince scored 13 points and Rasheed Wallace added 11.

San Antonio 88 Dallas 81

Already struggling against the Spurs after having been up by as many as 12 points and finding themselves unable to stop a San Antonio run to cut into their lead, the Mavericks had a much bigger issue to worry about than just getting the victory against the Spurs. While they led by 12 points in the third quarter, the Spurs put together a 19-0 run and the Mavericks had lost Dirk Nowitzki by the end of it. After Nowitzki came down with a leg injury, the wheels came off for Dallas and San Antonio took their first lead in the second half of the game and never gave it up again. The Spurs won despite horrendous first half shooting that left them coming in at 26% for the game. They out-rebounded the Mavs 54-43 and had only 5 turnovers as compared to 10 for Dallas. Manu Ginobili led San Antonio with 26 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists off of the bench. Tim Duncan had 19 points and 13 rebounds and Tony Parker had 13 points. Jerry Stackhouse had 19 points for the Mavericks, Jason Terry scored 17 points and Josh Howard added 11 in the loss.

Denver 109 Toronto 100

With Chris Bosh back for his third consecutive game the Raptors were looking to get things back on track against Denver. Problem for Toronto was, the Nuggets were also trying to sort some things out. While The Raptors came into the game at 35-34, they held onto the fifth spot in the East. Denver came into the game 41-28, but they are in the West, where they are currently in ninth place and trying to make the playoffs. While Toronto led early and jumped out to a 35-23 lead after the first quarter they were unable to stay with Denver’s high-scoring game and gave up their lead on the opening possession in the fourth quarter when Linas Kleiza knocked down a three-pointer. After spending most of the game trying to come back from that 17-point deficit, the Nuggets went on to shut down Chris Bosh, and outscore the Raptors 38-27 in the period to go on for the win. Allen Iverson had 36 points and 6 assists for Denver, Carmelo Anthony added 33 points, JR Smith scored 14 off of the bench and Kenyon Martin had 15 rebounds. Bosh shone in the game before fading in the fourth quarter, finishing with 17 points, 12 rebounds and 9 assists in the loss. Jose Calderon scored 17 points, Jamario Moon scored 15 points grabbed 15 rebounds and blocked 3 shots. Andrea Bargnani scored 16 points and Anthony Parker added 14.

Golden State 115 LA Lakers 111

Last night, the Lakers learned the hard way that more often than not the fourth quarter belongs to Golden State. After being embarrassed in the first half of their match up with the Warriors, the Lakers had given up 72 points at the break and trailed by 23. They would be the team to come out firing in the third, outscoring Golden State 32-15 in the period and going on a 32-9 run to cut the deficit and then take the lead on free throws by Kobe Bryant with five minutes remaining in the game. While they had allowed the Lakers to come back from 26 down, the Warriors were not about to quit and they started fighting back, behind Stephen Jackson’s in the final minutes. With Bryant scoring 16 points in the final period, Jackson came up huge, hitting back to back three’s to neutralize back to back three’s by Bryant and keep the Warriors on top. After Bryant knocked down a three-pointer with 30 seconds remaining to cut the Warrior lead to one, 112-111, Jackson hit his second consecutive three with eight seconds remaining and the Warriors grabbed the 115-111 victory. Jackson and Monta Ellis each finished with 31 points for Golden State while Baron Davis scored 18 points and Al Harrington scored 13 points to go with 10 rebounds. Bryant finished with 36 points, 14 rebounds and 8 assists for the Lakers while Lamar Odom had 19 points, 22 rebounds and 4 blocked shots and Ronny Turiaf and Derek Fisher each scored 16 points.

New Orleans 113 Boston 106

After sweeping through the Texas trio, the Celtics were ready to grab a victory against the Hornets and continue to roll. Chris Paul and David West had something else in mind. With Boston leading by as many as 15 points early on and holding onto their lead throughout, the Hornets needed someone to step up offensively. With Paul’s minutes limited by foul trouble, fellow all-star West was the one to save the Hornets and knock down the Celtics. While Boston led by eight going into the fourth, New Orleans got to work early upping their defensive pressure while ramping up their offense on their way to outscoring the Celtics 32-17 in the final period. The Celtics went longer than five minutes without scoring and the Hornets took their first lead since early in the first quarter. At the end of a 9-0 run, that lead had extended to six points. After Boston cut the deficit to three with 1:31 left in the game, Paul rose up and knocked down a three-pointer, then followed it up with two free throws to keep the Hornets up six with 24 seconds remaining as they went on for the impressive win. While Paul finished with 19 points and 7 assists, the star of the night was West, scoring 37 points in the contest. Jannero Pargo scored 15 points off of the bench and Bonzi Wells added 12 points and 8 steals in the game. The Celtics were led by Paul Pierce’s 28 points while Rajon Rondo scored 23 points and Kevin Garnett added 19 points and 12 rebounds. Ray Allen added 17 in the loss.

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235 Responses to “The Post Up: Hornets Sting Celtics”

Mar.24 at 9:03 am

Eboy says:
Basketball is good at entertaining.

Mar.24 at 9:03 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
It’s been a great weekend!

Mar.24 at 9:04 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
minus waking up yesterday with a crazy cold that came out of nowhere! haha

Mar.24 at 9:07 am

Eboy says:
I’m sick, too, Holly. Bulls*it. Nice comeback by your boys, btw. Also, I think we can all finally agree that the Hornets may actually be pretty good.

Mar.24 at 9:08 am

Ryne Nelson says:
R.I.P. to the Dallas playoff hopes.

Mar.24 at 9:10 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
yup, NO is looking great. Ryne, I hate injuries. Eboy, hope you feel better soon.

Mar.24 at 9:11 am

TADOne says:
I’ve had my yearly cold. I should be good for the remainder of the year. Holly and Eboy are on the chillin list.

Mar.24 at 9:11 am

Ryne Nelson says:
Holly do you pick a lot of upsets in your brackets?

Mar.24 at 9:11 am

Cheryl says:
I feel for Dirk…not. I am worried about the Spurs though. They got the win, but they are looking mighty beatable. And wow, that KB24/SJax show was awesome. I got to stay up late cuz I took today off, and I’m glad I did. Nice work, Holly.

Mar.24 at 9:12 am

TADOne says:
The Hornets are for real. Byron=COY.

Mar.24 at 9:12 am

Eboy says:
Thanks, Holly. Same to you. Jax looked stress free in hitting the last couple of threes to seal it. Dude is the “Gangsta” posterboy.

Mar.24 at 9:12 am

TADOne says:
Hey Cheryl. I WISH I was off. Ugh.

Mar.24 at 9:13 am

Cheryl says:
Get well, you two. I did my sick thing last month. Not fun.

Mar.24 at 9:13 am

Cheryl says:
Hey Tad. Still coming to Fla?

Mar.24 at 9:13 am

Eboy says:
TAD, another “show up when they feel like it” game for your boys yesterday. Wish they could have put the hammer down on the Wiz.

Mar.24 at 9:14 am

Eboy says:
Morning, Queen Cheryl. Enjoy your holiday?

Mar.24 at 9:14 am

Sam Rubenstein says:
they need to make a Departed prequel with Stephen Jackson. ASAP!

Mar.24 at 9:15 am

Eboy says:
HAHAHA!

Mar.24 at 9:16 am

Eboy says:
Welcome back, Sam.

Mar.24 at 9:18 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
Yeahh Cheryl. Great to see you around. Jax is the poster boy for gangsta and I love him for it. He might be my second favorite player in the league, besides Kobe. Not in terms of talent, that’s CP3. Ivy and KG are waaay up there, but there’s something about that crazy man that I just love. Maybe that he TOOK a three when they were up one with less than a minute remaining…. Nellie’s guys are crazy, just like him!

Mar.24 at 9:18 am

Cheryl says:
I don’t celebrate, but the weekend was awesome. I took some time off to rejuvenate, badly needed. I’ll be around here today, so y’all make me laugh! :-)

Mar.24 at 9:19 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
Perfect photo choice, Sam. Thanks!

Mar.24 at 9:20 am

TADOne says:
Cheryl: Yes, probably not for a few months though. I need to get my Sam on a get some sun soon though. Plus, it will gave me an excuse to meet my extended Slam fam.

Mar.24 at 9:20 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
hey, did anyone else notice that Jack Nicholson had his pinkie all taped up like Kobe’s? hahaha I’m sure it was just a coincidence, but it made me laugh.

Mar.24 at 9:21 am

TADOne says:
*And get some

Mar.24 at 9:21 am

Eboy says:
Well Happy Monday then, lady. Also, Cheryl, I’m hearing that Riley is now more interested in Rose than Beasley so what does that do for the Heat next season. Not sure if I like that move if it happens.

Mar.24 at 9:23 am

TADOne says:
Eboy: My Boys had me cussing and waving my off hand at the TV while I chugged my beer with the other. I’m not sure where their on/off switch is, but they need to find it soon, turn it to “on”, and leave it there.

Mar.24 at 9:24 am

Ryne Nelson says:
Yeah, I saw that Nicholson had the finger taped. I didn’t think twice about it last night, but you could be right, Holly. That’s hilarious!

Mar.24 at 9:24 am

Eboy says:
TAD, maybe it’s like what Hubie Brown said, they know they pretty much have the 2 spot wrapped up so they just fuc*ing around, trying not to burn out or get injured.

Mar.24 at 9:26 am

Ryne Nelson says:
Eboy, Riley isn’t an idiot — he’ll take Beasley with the first pick if the Heat get it. They need far more help in the frontcourt than they do in the backcourt.

Mar.24 at 9:27 am

d.Y. says:
Speaking of next season, what does Cuban do if the Mavs don’t make the playoffs? Trade everyone but Josh Howard? Is that even possible?

Mar.24 at 9:28 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
“With the position that we’re in, we have the luxury of trying to work on some things,” said Detroit guard Chauncey Billups, who had 11 assists and four turnovers. We’re not moving up or down or trying to go nowhere. We just have to stay healthy and try to work on some things that could benefit us in some series.”

Mar.24 at 9:28 am

Eboy says:
Not that Hubie said they are fu*cking around, but just seem to be coasting.

Mar.24 at 9:28 am

Eboy says:
Holly, thank you for the quote clarification.

Mar.24 at 9:30 am

Cheryl says:
I haven’t seen him, but I hear he’s a shoot first pg and weak in court vision skills. I’m not so sure Riley won’t dangle the pick for some vets, though. We could use a good pg and a center like maybe Diop. Give the pick plus a signed Ricky or JWill to the Nets for Williams and Diop. What’cha think?

Mar.24 at 9:32 am

TADOne says:
Eboy: I heard Hubie say that, and I agree with him, but it still irks the f*ck out of me. I don’t see the Celtics letting off of the gas pedal, at all. Holly: Chauncey makes sense, and it would all be well and good too, but Flip I’Snt getting that damn memo! If he wanted to work on some things, stop yanking around Amir Johnson’s playing time. Are you telling me he couldn’t have made an impact in yesterday’s game?!

Mar.24 at 9:32 am

Eboy says:
Which Williams Cheryl? The little one or the big one?

Mar.24 at 9:33 am

Cheryl says:
Marcus.

Mar.24 at 9:33 am

Logan says:
the defense in the last minute was really sucky….me sitting tight for the rematch

Mar.24 at 9:34 am

Eboy says:
Also, I think the Pistons need to be razor sharp to beat the Cavs or the Celts so this trudge it to the playoffs routine may not be too bright. The Heat learned that lesson last season.

Mar.24 at 9:34 am

TADOne says:
Cheryl: Rose is definitely NOT a shoot first guard. He does need to work on allowing the game to come to him more though and slow down at critical times. That said, Riley will not pass up Beasley. Not happening.

Mar.24 at 9:35 am

Eboy says:
I’d rather have Sean. Funny.

Mar.24 at 9:36 am

TADOne says:
Eboy: Agree 100%. But then, what do I know?

Mar.24 at 9:39 am

Eboy says:
Can I say this without being punched in the e-balls? Watching Beasley in his last college game ever on Saturday, I’d say dude needs a lot of work. His athleticism is off the hook but his defensive awareness and dribble drive game need a LOT of work. I’d take him for sure, but I don’t know if he’s coming in to be dominant from the jump. He’s going to need a three year window to get NBA ready. Or getting through senior year in his mock college life.

Mar.24 at 9:40 am

TADOne says:
Holly: Nice pointing out how the Raps have lost 11 of 14. This team is out of sorts all over the place. If they get the Sixers or Wiz in the first round, they may be going down.

Mar.24 at 9:40 am

Cheryl says:
I don’t know, Tad. Like I said, I don’t watch much college ball, but I really can see Riley giving up the pick, even with Beasley there for the picking. Even though he seems to be the clear #1, I haven’t heard that he’s a franchise type player, like the guys that came out in 2003 or 2005 (CP3 and Deron). Riley needs to rebuild a winning team now, he can’t afford to have DWade get discouraged. My money’s on a trade.

Mar.24 at 9:41 am

People's Princess says:
Good morning all..

Mar.24 at 9:42 am

TADOne says:
There is no doubt Beasley needs work, but his athleticism alone will make him a 15/10 guy as a rookie. I’m quite sure Riley can work on these flaws in his game. Wade wasn’t exactly a polished piece his rookie year either.

Mar.24 at 9:42 am

Cheryl says:
And what Eboy said.

Mar.24 at 9:43 am

Eboy says:
What’s up PP. Cheryl, if Riley moves the pick, especially if it’s a number 1, they need to do better than Diop and Williams, no? How about Eboy, Ricky & the #1 for Josh Smith?

Mar.24 at 9:44 am

TADOne says:
Cheryl: I was actually just speaking from the fact if he kept the pick that he wouldn’t choose Rose over Beasley. Now, I wouldn’t put ANY thing past Riley, so I could definitely see him trading the pick. But they better get a damn good deal in return, or he will be criticized to no end.

Mar.24 at 9:46 am

Cheryl says:
Yeah but you’re forgetting, Riley doesn’t “work on” rookies. If he coaches next year (and that’s a big IF), I don’t seem him coaching a young team. I think his M.O. so far has been to look for vets that will complement Wade. he needs a solid pg and a decent center who can hold his own in the post. He can use young guys to come off the bench or fill in around the edges, but I don’t think he’s high on bringing in a raw rook. I could be wrong, we’ll see.

Mar.24 at 9:47 am

Cheryl says:
I’d love that one, E. But, again, we need a solid point.

Mar.24 at 9:47 am

People's Princess says:
If they could persuade ATl to give up J-Chill along wit J-Smoove then Miami definitely makes the deal…

Mar.24 at 9:49 am

TADOne says:
Understandable Cheryl. Also, I guess Wade was a 3 year player at Marquette, so he had developed his game at college some. You and Eboy know Riley better than most, but I’m not sure he even knows what he is planning on doing at times. Thing is, if he was planning on trading the pick, why go on the scouting hiatus?

Mar.24 at 9:49 am

Cheryl says:
And hey to the newbies (at least new to me)–Ryne and Princess. Nice to meet ya.

Mar.24 at 9:50 am

Eboy says:
Also if Beasley can put on 25 lbs, he’ll be elite. He was banged around by them big white boys from Wisconsin, so there’s that.

Mar.24 at 9:51 am

Eboy says:
I’d be more than thrilled if the Heat go young with players and head coach next season.

Mar.24 at 9:51 am

People's Princess says:
Hey Cheryl..Can v get an ASPOV?? :)

Mar.24 at 9:53 am

Cheryl says:
He’s scouting and discussing trades with other GMs I bet. Trust me, he’s not on the road simply to scout players, he’s got really good scouts on staff. I bet he’s making contact with other teams’ too.

Mar.24 at 9:53 am

TADOne says:
Beasley can certianly “fill out” more, but not sure about 25 pounds? I think the normal “15 lbs of muscle” that players normally stack on would fit Beasley just fine.

Mar.24 at 9:53 am

Cheryl says:
Hey, peeps, you’re getting it now! ;-)

Mar.24 at 9:53 am

Captain America says:
Jordan Farmar had a terrific second quarter last night. Kobe played over 40 minutes and Lamar needs to improve his shooting.

Mar.24 at 9:54 am

d.Y. says:
They’d still have no pg PP. They should take Rose. Look at how adding a great 1 has helped Utah and NO become competitive.

Mar.24 at 9:55 am

Cheryl says:
They got big white boys in Wisconsin? Who knew??

Mar.24 at 9:55 am

TADOne says:
Yeah, I can see Riley as a vagabond salesperson playing “Let’s Make A Deal” with numerous GM’s.

Mar.24 at 9:55 am

TADOne says:
It’s the cheese. And milk.

Mar.24 at 9:56 am

Cheryl says:
d.Y., Rose is no CP or DW. C’mon.

Mar.24 at 9:57 am

Captain America says:
Kobe’s behind the back while on full throttle left Baron stroking his beard.

Mar.24 at 9:58 am

d.Y. says:
Fine Cheryl, but he’s got good shot of turning into a guy who can run a team. Where else is Miami going to get a good point from if not the draft?

Mar.24 at 10:00 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
LO did have 22 boards and 4 blocks though. He just missed a ton of easy shots when he rushed. I was proud of them for the comeback. Tonight’s game is going to be real interesting.

Mar.24 at 10:00 am

TADOne says:
Rose can be real good, but Cheryl is right that he is no Paul or Williams. But there may be some other PG’s coming out like Augustin and Bayless.

Mar.24 at 10:01 am

People's Princess says:
What is the deal with Pau?? He’s back for the Cha game rite,Holly???

Mar.24 at 10:02 am

TADOne says:
Odom kills me getting 22 boards, and then the next night he may get like 6-7.

Mar.24 at 10:02 am

Cheryl says:
trade, D. And we don’t necessarily need a CP3 (though that would be lovely), just someone who can run the team and keep Wade from having to set up. There’s decent pgs out there whose team may be willing to give up to get Beasley–maybe Memphis or Philly.

Mar.24 at 10:02 am

Captain America says:
Oh, and Davidson is a school with 1,700 students and are giant killers.

Mar.24 at 10:03 am

People's Princess says:
Bayless is a PG??

Mar.24 at 10:04 am

Cheryl says:
But a center has to come in the deal too.

Mar.24 at 10:04 am

TADOne says:
Stephen Curry.

Mar.24 at 10:05 am

TADOne says:
He isn’t PDub? Arizona list him as a PG, even though he can play off the ball. His future is as a PG in the league.

Mar.24 at 10:06 am

TADOne says:
What’s a center?

Mar.24 at 10:06 am

d.Y. says:
Ok, Memphis (and Toronto) I can see, but if we were gonna trade Pig, it would’ve happened already. Even still, I’d take Rose over Lowry or Crittendon.

Mar.24 at 10:06 am

Eboy says:
Cheryl, we’re going to be looking long and hard for a center, cause there is not many to choose from.

Mar.24 at 10:08 am

Cheryl says:
Yeah, I read Russ’ piece on him. Is he a 1 or 2?

Mar.24 at 10:09 am

BETCATS says:
Davidson?!.?!.?!.?!.

Mar.24 at 10:09 am

Cheryl says:
Diop would work, Eboy. And d.Y., I was thinking of that Spanish dude, forgot his name…

Mar.24 at 10:10 am

People's Princess says:
Not if he continues to play like Ben Gordon 2.0…but I dunno Wade might like playing next to guy like Jerryd, rather than a dominating PG like CP3 types…

Mar.24 at 10:12 am

Cheryl says:
That’s what I’m sayin’, Peeps. We don’t really need a CP, just a solid set up guy. And I gotta go grab some breakfast–be back…

Mar.24 at 10:12 am

TADOne says:
Russ wrote a piece on Bayless? I must have missed that.

Mar.24 at 10:13 am

Cheryl says:
And btw, the Heat is getting discussed on the board today. I love it! :-)

Mar.24 at 10:17 am

Eboy says:
I think we should change the subject, Cheryl, before we’re flamed for it.

Mar.24 at 10:20 am

TADOne says:
PHX is officially contenders again. Mavs are free falling. Houston is reslient. The Hornets are surprising everyone and no one at the same time. Utah is getting the road thing figured out. Gasol will be back soon. Denver can run and score with anyone. The Spurs are the Spurs. Ditto for Golden State. The West is just way too fun.

Mar.24 at 10:21 am

TADOne says:
*resilient

Mar.24 at 10:22 am

Eboy says:
Uhm, TAD, I think I was one of two people that actually endorsed the Suns move, the other, Professor Ryan Jones. If they can stay steady, they are going to be hell to deal with.

Mar.24 at 10:23 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
the Canadian sports station has been playing all of the ncaa highlights to this song “born and raised in the ghetto” and it gives me SERIOUS chills every time I hear it. Nothing is better than seeing the hearts these guys have. Makes me love the game even MORE. And Cheryl, I hate it, but I’ve got love for you, so talk away, as long as you stick around!! ;)

Mar.24 at 10:24 am

People's Princess says:
This is y I feared a GS-Lakers first round combo..damn,Jax is cold..but that last line of Tad’s got me thinking..Wat if v had a Spurs-Warriors first round matchup?? Yin and Yang right there..

Mar.24 at 10:26 am

Eboy says:
The Lakers don’t want it with the Warriors in the first round.

Mar.24 at 10:29 am

TADOne says:
Playing NCAA highlights to a song called “born and raised in the ghetto”?! Canadian TV is awesome.

Mar.24 at 10:31 am

TADOne says:
Eboy: Stop tooting your own horn. I didn’t endorse the Shaq trade, but I also told people not to judge too harshly until after they can incorporate him into the lineup. Whan the first did, I berated them because Shaq just didn’t seem like a good fit in there. But Nash and Amare have a way of evening things out.

Mar.24 at 10:31 am

Co Co says:
Okay I’m really late, but as I scrolled through the comments I saw some nonsense about my Hawks trading Josh Smith to the Miami Heat for Ricky Davis and a draft pick! You guys have GOT to be kidding me! Good morning btw

Mar.24 at 10:32 am

Eboy says:
If not semi-ignorant.

Mar.24 at 10:32 am

TADOne says:
*When they first did

Mar.24 at 10:32 am

TADOne says:
That was Eboy Co Co. Flame him.

Mar.24 at 10:33 am

Eboy says:
Toot TOOOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m like Tractor Traylor in this motherfu*ker. Hi Co Co, you little ray of sunshine.

Mar.24 at 10:34 am

Eboy says:
TAD, just cause you have fantasies about Co Co, don’t try to turn her aginst me, fu*ker.

Mar.24 at 10:35 am

People's Princess says:
What up Co Co? Nice piece on reseeding btw.

Mar.24 at 10:35 am

TADOne says:
That was supposed to be a secret Eboy. You must suck as a lawyer.

Mar.24 at 10:35 am

Co Co says:
You guys got my blood boiling a little earlier than usual….

Mar.24 at 10:36 am

Co Co says:
Thanks PP

Mar.24 at 10:37 am

Eboy says:
Bi*ch, send me a retainer check and we’ll be straight. :)

Mar.24 at 10:37 am

TADOne says:
By the way, did anyone see Stack push down Manu’s head into the floor?

Mar.24 at 10:38 am

Eboy says:
I told you the wolves would start circling, Cheryl.

Mar.24 at 10:38 am

BETCATS says:
*

Mar.24 at 10:39 am

Eboy says:
I think that was 50 times worse than Bowen’s leg movement but I’m sure it will be overlooked cause Manu’s not a league darling.

Mar.24 at 10:40 am

Co Co says:
And, I don’t care that the Suns are on a winning streak, I still don’t think the trade made them better…..

Mar.24 at 10:41 am

Eboy says:
Co Co is sour this morning.

Mar.24 at 10:42 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
Tad, my favorite announcer threw this out this morning, “and he shows he don’t mind a little bump and grind, gets the hoop and the harm, it doesn’t bother him!!” for some kid’s and-1. We may get crap NBA coverage, but the Canadian station The Score, KILLS it on NCAA coverage. I’m definitely biased, but they make highlights so much more entertaining to watch. The guys are just crazy, fun crazy, not annoying crazy.

Mar.24 at 10:44 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
Tad, JVG is gangsta.. you hear him talking about how that shouldnt have been a tech? He cracks me up. Stack was dirty on that one! I enjoyed Manu’s postgame interview. The Spurs are just smart. They get it.

Mar.24 at 10:45 am

Co Co says:
Nah Tad, its a great day!

Mar.24 at 10:45 am

BETCATS says:
At least the Suns are on some form of a postive streak. I am hungry like the wolf. THe End.
Sincerly, BETCATS P.S- I updated my website. Have fun everyone! P.S.S- Holly is HUGE in Japan P.M.S- OMGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG

Mar.24 at 10:46 am

TADOne says:
JVG is the best color man going.

Mar.24 at 10:48 am

TADOne says:
That was Eboy that called you sorrow, not I. But yes, it is turning into a great day.

Mar.24 at 10:48 am

Co Co says:
Damn,my bad Tad. Eboy I’m not sour, but when you mention Ricky Davis for Josh Smith it unnerves me……..

Mar.24 at 10:50 am

Eboy says:
How about Haslem, Banks, Blount and the #1?

Mar.24 at 10:51 am

Co Co says:
How about no? The Hawks don’t need anymore draft picks. They’d probably convince themselves that greg Paulus has the most upside then we’d be even more screwed.

Mar.24 at 10:52 am

TADOne says:
If Co Co isn’t sour, she sure is combative.

Mar.24 at 10:53 am

Eboy says:
Greg Paulus will never get out of the D-League.

Mar.24 at 10:53 am

TADOne says:
Channel that stuff Co Co. Write us another great piece.

Mar.24 at 10:54 am

Co Co says:
Why are you guys calling me sour because I think the idea of trading our most talented player for anyone on this Miami Heat team is absurd?

Mar.24 at 10:54 am

TADOne says:
Paulus will never get to the D League. He seems destined to learn a foreign language.

Mar.24 at 10:54 am

Eboy says:
Regardless of H to the izzo’s man crush on the dude.

Mar.24 at 10:55 am

TADOne says:
I said combative, not sour. Jeez, do we need Tillery to come in here and calm you ;)

Mar.24 at 10:55 am

Co Co says:
“Paulus will never get to the D League. He seems destined to learn a foreign language”. Funny Tad.

Mar.24 at 10:56 am

Co Co says:
Okay, I’ll relax Tad.

Mar.24 at 10:57 am

BETCATS says:
sour apple! Co Co do not listen to him, he is a Pistons fan! Its a trap. Dont make the same mistake Ron Ron did, never listen to a Pistons fan

Mar.24 at 10:57 am

Eboy says:
Because Co Co, the Hawks are in no way changing the culture of shi*tiness with their present squad regardless of their scary 9 games under .500 record. The Heat are a disgrace this season, it’s doubtful that will be the case next. The Hawks are still the Hawks regardless of a meanigless playoff berth, if they hang on. Figure since you are on the heated tip already, why not get you full hot? :)

Mar.24 at 10:58 am

TADOne says:
So Co Co, let’s talk Hawks. Did Joe Johnson rediscover 2006?

Mar.24 at 11:04 am

Co Co says:
Eboy, my last comment got lost and you better be glad! Tad the thing with Joe is that unlike other players who have 30 point nights, he doesn’t get many calls so he doesn’t get many trips to the free throw line. He has to get his points the old fashion way by making shots. He’s played well, hopefully he can keep it up.

Mar.24 at 11:04 am

Eboy says:
Only busting your chops, Co Co. JJ has been nice as hell lately.

Mar.24 at 11:04 am

Eboy says:
Co Co=Sour Girl

Mar.24 at 11:05 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
CoCo you’re killing me. I’ve been sitting here thinking why in the hell would Atl trade away everything to have to develop another player. Sure, they’ve got some work to do, but stay away from the Heat, Hawks. Stay far, far away!

Mar.24 at 11:05 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
stephen currryyy.

Mar.24 at 11:08 am

People's Princess says:
J Chill and J Smoove are quite possibly the coolest pair of nicknames in the Lig rite now.And Horford’s becoming the tough-guy that the Landlord was supposed to be.

Mar.24 at 11:09 am

Holly MacKenzie says:
ROY

Mar.24 at 11:11 am

Co Co says:
Grrrrr Eboy! There’s on change the Hawks could make to become a better team as currently constructed….. It starts with a pink slip…

Mar.24 at 11:11 am

TADOne says:
The Heat are toxic. They should be quarantined. The Hawks needs only 1 more piece: A coach who can coach. Oh, and maybe a PG.

Mar.24 at 11:11 am

Co Co says:
one

Mar.24 at 11:13 am

TADOne says:
New management may help as well. I find thi funny since I found out a certain someone works for them.

Mar.24 at 11:14 am

TADOne says:
*this

Mar.24 at 11:17 am

TADOne says:
No tournament games until Thursday makes me sad. No Stephen Curry till Friday is just plain torture.

Mar.24 at 11:19 am

Co Co says:
There are good games in the Association tonight Tad. Your Pistons against the Suns for example.

Mar.24 at 11:23 am

TADOne says:
I hope the Pistons don’t embarass themselves. We’ve been making a habit of that lately. And go ahead and pile on Flip, I won’t disagree with you today.

Mar.24 at 11:25 am

TADOne says:
Hmmmm, Sixers @ Celtics and Lakers @ Warriors are quite intriguing. I know Holly is quietly fretting tonights game.

Mar.24 at 11:31 am

Co Co says:
The Pistons get up for games like this Tad so I expect a good effort from them.

Mar.24 at 11:37 am

TADOne says:
That’s true Co Co, but that is what burns me up about them. I guess they fail to realize that they could be playing the Wizards in the 1st round.

Mar.24 at 11:42 am

Co Co says:
Yeah, they didn’t want to show them all of their plays before the post season.

Mar.24 at 11:48 am

TADOne says:
Yeah, that Flip Saunders, so sneaky.

Mar.24 at 12:04 pm

DP says:
damn its good to see a computer in about 9 days! Man that was a good game between the LA and Golden State. I really hope the standings stay the same so this can be the 1 vs. 8 matchup. by the way Kobe is a f*cking beast but Jack is a f*cking monster.

Mar.24 at 12:05 pm

Reggie Evans says:
Holly - I was at the Laker game at Staples last night. What a fun game to be at - 26 points down, but they made it a game down to the final seconds. What’s glaringly obvious is that aside from Kobe, none of the perimeter players can guard Monta Ellis or Baron Davis. And coddamn, Lamar helps on every single play, because he ha to! He even picked up two 3-seconds in the key defensive calls because of it.

Mar.24 at 12:06 pm

DP says:
my ncaa brackets are f*cked. thanks a lot UConn and Georgetown. Roy Hibbert soft cupcake a*s.

Mar.24 at 12:07 pm

Holly MacKenzie says:
Yes, you know me too well Tad. I’m hoping we come out on fire, but Warriors at home are a scary sight!

Mar.24 at 12:08 pm

DP says:
Reggie is right, no one can guard Monta. kid needs a contract extension quick.

Mar.24 at 12:11 pm

TADOne says:
The baby faced assasin. Monta and Stephen Curry could pass as brothers.

Mar.24 at 12:13 pm

DP says:
LA would win against GS 4-2 in a series. No actually the Warriors will face the Hornets and La will play the nuggets. the mavs don’t stand a chance now the Dirk is gone. J-Kidd, where u at?

Mar.24 at 12:13 pm

TADOne says:
DP: I think everyone’s bracket is messed up. I still have all of my Final Four picks alive though, so I’m still quietly optimistic. But anyway, f*ck the brackets! These games have been exceptional.

Mar.24 at 12:13 pm

Holly MacKenzie says:
Reggie, thanks for the info… Damn, I was dying on those last two possessions. I get what Fish was thinking, but dammit, its Jax. You KNOW he is going to let that three fly. Expect the unexpected, it IS the only way to prepare for the Warriors. They are crazy. Crazy good. And Lamar has been fantastic these past few weeks. And why has no one mentioned Kobe’s CRAZY sequence of moves? That was wild. I bet you were hopping when that happened!

Mar.24 at 12:16 pm

DP says:
Just one more comment about the brackets: Texas will win the championship this year. PWI

Mar.24 at 12:16 pm

Eboy says:
The tournament became super exceptional for me once Duke took their medicine.

Mar.24 at 12:18 pm

Eboy says:
Is that because they are closest to Mississippi, DP?

Mar.24 at 12:20 pm

TADOne says:
Mississippi State lost to Memphis, so I’m sure DP wants Texas to exact revenge for him.

Mar.24 at 12:21 pm

DP says:
I was sitting in my bed when the Kobe play happened Holly and all I could say to myself was damn after the behind the back, damn after the spin move, and damn after the no look pass. That equals damn, damn, damn! Kobe is the best player in the L on the L-O. Kobe is looking for the championship like H-E-L-L-O! Lakeshow runs the L. Just got unlucky last night.

Mar.24 at 12:23 pm

TADOne says:
Laker fans are so cute.

Mar.24 at 12:24 pm

Holly MacKenzie says:
hahaha, DP. And Tad, shut it! ;)

Mar.24 at 12:25 pm

Eboy says:
DP, I guess their other 21 losses were a mirage, huh?

Mar.24 at 12:25 pm

DP says:
Damn TAD and Eboy are on point! Memphis will lose to Texas because they cannot shoot when no one is guarding them(free throws). Plus I think D.J. Augustin is the best point guard in the country and not Darren Collison from UCLA. that cat is too overrated. Mississippi State made me proud though. Look out for Jamont Gordon in the L next year!

Mar.24 at 12:26 pm

DP says:
It was all a dream EBoy. Get ready for the rodeo my friend.

Mar.24 at 12:27 pm

Eboy says:
I agree with the Augustin words, DP.

Mar.24 at 12:28 pm

Eboy says:
Rodeo, schmodeo!!!!!

Mar.24 at 12:39 pm

TADOne says:
I actually have Memphis losing to Texas as well for the very reason you mention DP. Funny thing is, Calipari is in denial on every interview he does that questions his teams FT shooting. Poor guy.

Mar.24 at 12:40 pm

DP says:
Yall think D.J. would be a good point guard in the L?

Mar.24 at 12:40 pm

TADOne says:
And Dp: You need to worry about Senor Gasol returning before predicting a run thru that Western Conference maze. But that is just my two cents.

Mar.24 at 12:41 pm

Eboy says:
He’d be a solid backup, DP.

Mar.24 at 12:41 pm

Eboy says:
“Wait till Bynum comes back”

Mar.24 at 12:42 pm

TADOne says:
DJ will be an excellent PG in the league, IMO. Dude has the vision, awareness, shot, and overall understanding of the PG position to excel. He just needs to work on adding some bulk.

Mar.24 at 12:43 pm

TADOne says:
Eboy: Backup? Really??

Mar.24 at 12:45 pm

Eboy says:
Who’s starting spot is he taking in the league right now, TAD? Just saying. It ain’t Chris Paul coming through.

Mar.24 at 12:50 pm

TADOne says:
Ok, but the question was will he be a good PG in the league, not just next year. But he definitely could start on the Hawks or the Heat.

Mar.24 at 12:53 pm

Eboy says:
He’s not better than a healthy Eboy. and saying he’s a solid backup means he would be good, just not great. Stop confusing me, fuc*er.

Mar.24 at 12:58 pm

DP says:
D.J. will be a good point guard but like TAD said kid needs some weight. But he gives short people like muyself motivation for the future. But I don’t see a backup career. Maybe for Dareen Collison(Jay Bilas rides his nuts too hard). and you see what happens when Jay doesn’t ride nuts. (Josh Smith Stand up!)

Mar.24 at 12:58 pm

TADOne says:
Augustin will start in the league. Maybe not next year, but he will. He’s better than Farmar, and Farmar is a good backup. The only thing Augustin lacks is a consistent jumper and he needs to get bigger. He will be a starter.

Mar.24 at 12:59 pm

TADOne says:
Bilas is a tool.

Mar.24 at 1:01 pm

Eboy says:
Small point guard, without a consistent jumper? Not a great mix.

Mar.24 at 1:02 pm

Reggie Evans says:
Holly - The crowd at Staples was awesome. Monta Ellis is so damn fast - I think I heard Phil Jackson was asked who was faster, Barbosa or Ellis, and he answered Ellis. Kobe’s footwork on that play was sick - I think he didn’t mean to dribble the ball so far to the left when he went behind the back, so he improvised that spin move, then he saw the help commit, so he knew Ronny was free for the dunk. I don’t think I’ve heard Staples as loud in a while.

Mar.24 at 1:07 pm

TADOne says:
The jumper can be fixed. He’s bigger than his protege at Texas, TJ Ford. And almost as quick. That makes up for his heaight disadvantage.

Mar.24 at 1:07 pm

TADOne says:
*height

Mar.24 at 1:08 pm

TADOne says:
Ok, can someone please post a link of that KB move? I didn’t see the game and I’m growing tired of hearing how great it was.

Mar.24 at 1:10 pm

Eboy says:
The pass was nicer than the dribble, TAD. The initial spin was nice but he freelanced the rest and it worked out looking great. It was no planned, fantasy And1 move, that’s for sure.

Mar.24 at 1:21 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Kobe’s stats we’re LeBronesque. Do GSW-Lakers play again tonight?

Mar.24 at 1:23 pm

TADOne says:
They do LZ. At Golden State. Should be a great contest.

Mar.24 at 1:24 pm

Hyphy says:
The LA vs GS was fantastic. Kobe’s acrobatic move to get it to Turiaf was amazing, and SJax clutch 3’s left me speechless. The race in the West is about exciting as the NCAA playoffs. It should be rockin’ in the Oracle tonight when they play back-to-back. It should be an exciting game.

Mar.24 at 1:27 pm

Cheryl says:
I used to live in Oakland. That place is gonna be a madhouse tonight. Guess I’ll be up late again tonight.

Mar.24 at 1:28 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Thx TAD. Seems like Monta is developing into somewhat of a superstar huh?

Mar.24 at 1:29 pm

TADOne says:
That’s what the day off is for Cheryl. You can be lazy all day until tonight. So did you ever dress up in all black and go to the Raiders games?

Mar.24 at 1:30 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
And in the speedster conversation are Phil forgetting about Tony Parker and AI?

Mar.24 at 1:30 pm

TADOne says:
Somewhat? Already is, at least in my book. He’ll be an All Star in 2 years at the most.

Mar.24 at 1:33 pm

TADOne says:
I would pay money to see a 100 yard dash between Monta, Ivy, Leandro, Parker, and TJ Ford.

Mar.24 at 1:42 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Agree TAD, Monta’s for sure an all-star the last two years - just two many guards out west to actually make the team. I was meaning him taking the step from All-star-level player to superstar levelplayer seems to me his putting up 25+ every time a check a Warriors-boxscore (doesn’t happen everyday, so don’t know his exact stats). That 100 yard dash would be golden, throw in a bootwearing Bowen chasing them and they could be breaking records.

Mar.24 at 1:46 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
*I check a..

Mar.24 at 1:48 pm

TADOne says:
Agreed LZ. If the Warriors and Suns meet in the playoffs, they make break the scoreboards.

Mar.24 at 1:53 pm

TADOne says:
*MAY break

Mar.24 at 1:56 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Warriors-Suns-Nuggets and their respective trigger-happy formula 1’s are great watching. Not even Shaq would be able to slow a Suns-W’s series down. Monta and Leandrinho could both be averaging above 30 in such a showcase.

Mar.24 at 2:02 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
On another note; can Hornets win the championship? - or at least make it to the Finals, I still have a East team winning it all. I used to write them of because of inexperience and depth. But they seem to have fixed the bench with Bonzi (clutch performer with playoffs experience btw) and Paul’s whole demeanor and his teams reactions to his leadership, just signals that experience won’t be a problem. I’m VERY impressed with them lately.

Mar.24 at 2:04 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
* should have been (..) around “I still have a East..all”

Mar.24 at 2:12 pm

TADOne says:
Not sure about the Hornets winning it all. A lot of things would need to fall their way as far as seedings in the playoffs and who they would matchup against. I just think their relatively short bench and inexperience may get the best of them. Anything is possible in the West, but I think they may be a year away.

Mar.24 at 2:15 pm

Eboy says:
If they can somehow catch a Dallas, Houston, Phoenix grouping they could get the West title.

Mar.24 at 2:22 pm

Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
They also match-up good with the Spurs I think, not forgetting that the Spurs are the Spurs. Agree that LA or Utah would be tough for the Hornets.

Mar.24 at 3:25 pm

hursty says:
sup everyone

Mar.24 at 3:30 pm

hursty says:
or not.

Mar.24 at 3:57 pm

DP says:
hursty it is lunch time so for the time being everyone is on their grind. come back in two hours.

Mar.24 at 4:06 pm

TADOne says:
Not lunchtime. Worktime for me. Monday’s suck.

Mar.24 at 4:11 pm

DP says:
worktime for me is tomorrow…………..school. Tuesdays suck booty guys. tryin to juice out as much time as possible.

Mar.24 at 4:18 pm

TADOne says:
Ok DP: PHX @ Detroit, Philly @ Boston, Lakers @ Warriors. Who you got?

Mar.24 at 5:04 pm

Reggie Evans says:
TAD, your proposed race would be no good if it was just a footrace. I’ve read that Barbosa was not impressive just running, it’s that he loses virtually no speed running WITH the ball. So, I would love to see those guys race while dribbling. Maybe even make them slalom around cones, and then see who’s faster dribbling with only their non-shooting hand.

Mar.24 at 5:44 pm

H to the izzo says:
I’m late,I won’t add anything but I would like to say two things:Stephen Curry.And:F*ck Eboy.

Mar.24 at 6:04 pm

Holly MacKenzie says:
Phx, Boston, Lakers, Tad. Gonna be a wild one of Lakers dont show up. Kobe will be getting T’d up for sure. He is wound tight after last night. Here’s hoping for a big game from my boys.

Mar.24 at 6:21 pm

TADOne says:
Booooo Holly. My Pistons will turn it on against the Suns tonight, Sixers may surprise the Celtics, and Stephen Jackson has more shots in the barrel (pun intnded)for the Lakers.

Mar.24 at 6:29 pm

RV says:
….

Mar.24 at 6:30 pm

RV says:
wordpress had/has me locked out since this morning, anyone know why that may be, i had to change my email….

Mar.24 at 6:37 pm

RV says:
yeah. the post up is too dead now to reply….But JVG on Allan Houston was good stuff

Mar.24 at 6:45 pm

jeremy says:
Go Pistons…put that in your pipe and smoke it Lakers fans!!!

Mar.24 at 6:53 pm

hursty says:
too bad RV, calm down jeremy.

Mar.24 at 6:59 pm

TADOne says:
Tell ‘em Jeremy!

Mar.24 at 8:38 pm

DP says:
I’m kind of late TAD but I got DET, BOS, and LA. you know how I roll wit the Lakeshow. I hate PHX so DET is a must and Boston is Boston. But Dre Dala got those Sixers thinking playoffs. Kobe will snap on GS tonight and the score will be 130-118. PWI

Mar.25 at 2:53 am

hursty says:
lakers and PHILLY! with huge wins.. Iggy came up big in the 4th.

Mar.25 at 9:02 am

Logan says:
KOBE!

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