article
123
5
0
2010-03-03T06:56:16-05:00
Playerpress
No
70
7775
<p> It is well known that LeBron James missed out on college. And that is too bad. Because he could have gone to the frat parties. Animal House. Those easy college fluff courses that all the big time NCAA programs have. Like the History of the NBA 101.<br />
<br />
LeBron James sent a request to the league to change his number from 23 to 6 in respect to Michael Jordan. Too bad he failed the history lesson.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For teachers, we call it unprepared for class.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For starters, Dr. J was number 6. Before Bird and Magic saved the NBA, Dr. J carried the torch. He wore the number 6. But if we travel back a bit further into the history of the NBA we would find the greatest to wear number 6. Bill Russell.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now if LeBron James had gone to college, he could have gone out for the debate team. And we could debate if Michael Jordan was the greatest of all time. And we know the discussion will begin with Jordan's 6 championships. Maybe that is why James chose the number 6. But you can not deny Russell with his 9 championships. Add to that Russell's NCAA Title and his gold medal with the Olympics. And not one of those dream teams the U.S used when they decided to trump the tournament. Maybe that is why James chose the number 6.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Here is the clinching part for Russell. Russell was the fist African-American coach in the NBA. A pioneer and ground breaker, in the neighborhood of Jackie Robinson. So go ahead and retire Michael Jordan's 23. Just please do not tell me you do not want to show disrespect to 23 and instead wear 6. Retire 23, but don't forget to hang up Russell's 6 as well.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Retire 23? Great, the same way that the NHL retired 99 for the Great One, Wayne Gretzky. But then let's put 6 next to it, the same way that MLB retired 42 for Robinson.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I guess LeBron James will need a number. Give him 59. That will remind him of the grade he got for History of the NBA 101. It is not passing, so that means that he will have to go to Summer school. But don't bother showing up for the debate team. There are no openings.</p>
74.98.182.2
2010-03-03T06:56:16-05:00
remember-to-retire-russell-s-6-too
No
Yes
123.125.66.78, 66.249.68.233, 174.37.205.76, 174.36.241.155, 142.166.170.104, 67.195.115.214, 76.97.188.228, 174.129.157.195, 38.113.234.181, 64.13.147.187, 65.52.26.149, 174.129.90.99, 89.151.116.56, 67.207.201.162, 70.37.70.228, 67.202.63.158, 184.73.20.47, 174.129.70.181, 72.13.91.40, 208.74.66.61, 174.129.141.17, 75.101.238.112, 83.149.199.55, 204.236.194.99, 66.249.67.186, 174.37.205.87, 142.166.170.100, 186.137.24.219, 66.249.68.226, 218.28.29.236, 67.195.113.247, 142.166.170.103, 66.172.194.105, 74.104.142.63, 38.98.19.68, 67.218.116.131, 58.210.84.42, 216.129.119.11, 174.37.80.233, 74.86.244.79, 94.23.15.84, 95.24.251.28, 74.86.244.209, 38.99.96.233, 216.129.119.42, 68.93.154.151, 123.125.66.67, 66.249.68.227, 119.63.198.10, 87.250.252.241, 71.95.178.68, 67.195.113.227, 174.129.139.3, 174.129.141.199, 85.17.226.119, 97.117.208.26, 67.160.178.128, 76.16.89.17, 142.166.170.102, 66.249.67.108, 64.13.222.190, 184.73.226.116, 81.94.206.226, 81.94.194.34, 75.101.195.195, 66.249.68.236, 66.249.68.8, 76.127.228.0, 148.168.40.4
Remember to Retire Russell's 6 too
2
No
LeBron James, Bill Russell, Michael Jordan
67
Remember to Retire Russell's 6 too
793
writer
wire
123
5
0
2010-02-23T22:22:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
100
7660
<p>Boston Celtics guard Paul Pierce is out indefinitely with a right thumb injury, according to his coach, Doc Rivers. Pierce did not attend the game on Tuesday against the New York Knicks at TD Garden because he had the flu.<br />
<br />
Pierce injured the thumb in the first half of the Celtics' game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. Pierce said that he would speak to Rivers about shutting himself down for a few days to allow the thumb to heal. <br />
<br />
Rivers reiterated Pierce's stance that he was day-to-day. He also said that if Pierce needs an extended period of time to heal, the Celtics are prepared for that.<br />
<br />
"It's not what you want, but listen, we went 3-1 [on a recent four-game road trip] without Paul giving us much of anything due to his health," Rivers said. "We can win without him. We just can't win a long time without him. We need him back and we need him healthy. He's our best offensive player. He creates stuff for everyone, even when he's not scoring. His presence on the floor draws attention. We need him back and we need him back healthy. The way we did it didn't work out, so we have to get him healthy."</p>
207.237.160.143
2010-02-23T22:22:00-05:00
7660-paul-pierce-out-indefinitely-with-a-thumb-injury
No
Yes
123.125.66.63, 66.249.68.251, 123.125.66.70, 96.246.112.236, 207.237.160.143, 66.249.67.215, 204.236.232.79, 64.13.147.187, 67.202.40.201, 216.24.142.46, 74.73.189.98, 75.101.232.27, 89.151.116.52, 67.220.192.215, 65.52.26.149, 67.207.201.140, 72.13.91.40, 74.201.117.226, 67.202.63.158, 69.36.233.15, 38.104.134.114, 79.99.6.106, 208.74.66.38, 208.74.66.62, 64.246.135.98, 174.129.70.181, 66.249.85.3, 75.101.232.231, 174.37.205.91, 67.195.37.188, 142.166.170.104, 142.166.170.103, 83.149.199.55, 142.166.170.100, 174.129.90.99, 71.22.164.109, 76.97.188.228, 72.44.61.86, 204.236.198.91, 89.151.116.59, 70.37.70.228, 75.101.170.136, 208.74.66.61, 216.24.142.45, 204.236.236.41, 83.149.199.54, 67.195.112.88, 72.44.54.68, 38.99.96.15, 174.129.115.46, 70.104.148.225, 184.72.4.97, 174.129.42.87, 67.195.115.89, 128.8.132.25, 72.44.48.172, 38.99.96.233, 79.182.41.225, 24.175.32.139, 66.249.68.143, 67.195.115.214, 87.250.252.241, 67.195.114.230, 206.53.157.200, 24.182.45.28, 67.195.115.44, 66.249.68.236, 130.108.237.120, 119.63.198.7, 65.200.199.106, 209.142.135.78, 64.13.222.190, 64.255.180.215, 123.125.66.81, 142.166.170.101, 66.249.68.81, 119.63.198.39, 66.219.58.42, 67.218.116.131, 119.63.198.38, 216.129.119.11, 85.25.124.132, 98.217.214.83, 66.249.67.79, 66.172.194.105, 67.195.113.247, 206.83.86.2, 66.249.68.184, 66.249.68.178, 119.63.198.33, 66.249.67.186, 85.17.171.225, 216.129.119.42, 95.24.251.28, 67.195.113.227, 195.113.214.213, 119.63.198.43, 119.63.198.49, 119.63.198.26
Paul Pierce Out Indefinitely With a Thumb Injury
2
No
Paul Pierce, Doc Rivers, Boston Celtics, TD Garden, Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks,
67
Paul Pierce Out Indefinitely With a Thumb Injury
2378
featured columnist
wire
123
5
0
2010-02-09T19:25:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
84
7388
<p>The Boston Celtics and Charlotte Bobcats are rumored to be in discussions about a trade involving Glen Davis and D.J. Augustin.<br />
<br />
<br />
The Celtics are in need of a backup point guard and Augustin is rumored to have fallen out of favor with fickle Bobcats coach Larry Brown. The Bobcats have been searching for a power forward and the 6-9 Davis fits the bill.<br />
<br />
<br />
Boston is also not happy with Davis, who has had a few off-court problems this season. Davis missed the first 27 games of the season after breaking his thumb in an early morning scuffle with a friend. A change of scenery could benefit both players.<br />
<br />
<br />
A straight-up trade is not possible because of the NBA's restrictive salary cap rules. Davis is a base-year compensation player, so other players would have to be included to satisfy the financial requirements of the deal. This is thought to be what is holding up the deal.</p>
76.97.188.228
2010-02-09T19:25:00-05:00
7388-celtics-davis-and-bobcats-augustin-in-rumored-deal
No
Yes
68.81.166.28, 66.249.68.149, 186.137.25.72, 123.125.66.58, 174.37.205.68, 174.37.205.76, 96.246.112.236, 142.166.170.21, 64.13.147.187, 216.24.142.47, 65.52.22.215, 72.13.91.40, 67.202.63.158, 89.151.116.59, 204.236.198.91, 70.37.70.230, 208.74.66.36, 208.74.66.61, 123.125.66.122, 64.246.135.98, 64.233.172.6, 142.166.3.122, 123.125.66.16, 71.68.2.29, 67.195.112.114, 67.195.37.188, 67.202.10.201, 174.21.243.205, 72.44.54.68, 83.149.199.55, 83.149.199.54, 174.129.115.46, 76.119.26.252, 72.44.48.172, 66.249.67.229, 76.97.188.228, 211.43.152.49, 174.129.157.195, 65.52.22.222, 72.44.49.134, 75.101.197.164, 67.195.112.28, 209.20.84.80, 216.129.119.11, 68.171.234.98, 38.99.97.126, 87.250.252.241, 119.63.198.47, 174.129.85.40, 38.99.97.10, 142.166.170.102, 123.125.66.132, 64.13.222.190, 38.100.8.50, 66.249.67.79, 66.249.68.117, 38.105.83.11, 79.125.61.193, 85.17.59.114, 142.166.170.104, 66.249.68.155, 75.28.191.86, 67.218.116.131, 38.99.96.15, 66.249.68.187, 77.88.50.49, 67.195.112.88, 66.249.68.251, 67.195.110.170, 67.195.115.214, 66.249.68.236, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.114.230, 85.25.124.132, 66.249.68.184, 66.249.68.233, 67.195.113.227, 66.249.67.204, 216.129.119.42, 66.249.68.172, 123.125.66.129, 66.249.68.210, 69.115.241.123, 67.195.113.247, 207.46.195.226, 66.249.68.185
Celtics' Davis and Bobcats' Augustin in Rumored Deal
2
No
Boston Celtics, Charlotte Bobcats, D.J. Augustin, Glen Davis, Larry Brown, NBA Salary Cap,
67
Celtics' Davis and Bobcats' Augustin in Rumored Deal
1
administrator
article
123
5
0
2010-01-21T14:46:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
140
7079
<p> Quick look at things happening around the NBA....</p><p> </p>
<p>East Meets West </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tonight, the best record in the East hosts the best record in the West. The Cavaliers and Lakers meet in a rematch of a Christmas Day game in Los Angeles where the Cavs won 102-87. The L.A. fans flooded the floor with foam fingers. This time the scene switches to Cleveland. Nike hopes that Kobe Bryant and LeBron James will have a performance that is "puppet worthy". </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Celtics Continue to Struggle </p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you read my articles, you know I am a Boston fan. And in my post "<a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/feliz-navidad">Feliz Navidad</a>", a win for the Celtics on Christmas was on my Christmas List. I guess I forgot to include that I would hope they would continue to win. The Celts solved the Magic, winning 86-77. But then they lost the last three games in 2009, and after last night's loss in Detroit, the Celtics again have lost three in a row. The bright side? Kevin Garnett should return soon from injury. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Today's Number....25 </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Marcus Camby dominated the boards for the Clippers with 25 rebounds to beat the Bulls.</p>
<p>The Spurs scored 25 points in a row, and still could not figure out the Jazz, losing 105-98.</p>
<p>Oklahoma City's next win will be number 25, they already have more wins than last year. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Shooting Guard: Gilbert Arenas </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Washington Wizards are wandering through a lost season, but in a one point loss to Dallas last night, the hosts on D.C. Sports radio were wishing Arenas was not suspended and would have been available for a final shot. Of course, Arenas is out because he likes to shoot a little too much. While Arenas was in court for gun charges last Friday, I received some personal news that a good friend and former band member sits in jail unable to post a low bail. (If you are interested in <a href="http://www.myspace.com/thefreejailbirds">the band, you can see them here</a>) We have a justice system where innocent until proven guilty is a fairy tale, and the idea that the punishment will fit the crime is a pipe dream. Donte Stallworth killed a man in a DUI case, and served less than a month. Plaxico Burress shoots himself and gets 2 years. I also wonder who read the victim statement in that sentencing? Did Burress read his own statement "Yo man, why did you shoot me??" 6 months for shooting yourself is more than enough. No justice.... </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Weak in the Middle </p>
<p> </p>
<p>If the season ended today, the season would end three months early. But the Bulls would make the playoffs with a record of 18-22. The Houston Rockets would miss the playoffs with a record of 23-18. The Rockets would be 5th in the East, the Bulls would be 13th in the West. Other teams in the "West" that would not make the playoffs include New Orleans and Memphis. Why not just seed the teams 1-16 and put the best teams in the playoffs? </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Keeping an eye on the Nets </p>
<p> </p>
<p>3-38 at the halfway point. 6-76 would break the 76ers worst record of 9-73 (1972-'73)</p>
76.97.188.228
2010-01-21T14:46:00-05:00
121-nba-shoot-around
No
Yes
123.125.66.117, 66.249.68.137, 174.37.205.85, 170.189.193.3, 174.37.205.67, 99.51.209.249, 74.99.89.230, 66.249.67.162, 142.166.3.122, 128.174.243.5, 72.44.61.86, 211.43.152.52, 64.13.147.189, 75.101.232.27, 70.37.70.230, 89.151.116.54, 204.236.198.91, 174.129.107.161, 208.92.234.97, 174.143.213.49, 208.74.66.62, 64.62.134.170, 67.218.99.195, 207.71.28.42, 141.165.39.204, 216.129.119.81, 12.49.204.39, 38.99.97.126, 72.227.138.82, 76.97.188.228, 216.24.142.46, 216.24.142.47, 89.151.116.61, 208.74.66.36, 67.202.63.158, 75.101.170.136, 72.13.91.40, 174.129.143.246, 70.37.70.228, 38.99.96.237, 67.202.10.201, 83.149.199.55, 174.129.178.139, 174.133.61.66, 24.90.21.224, 174.129.90.99, 72.44.48.172, 174.129.171.1, 66.249.68.248, 146.115.126.202, 66.135.56.37, 67.218.116.131, 88.198.14.167, 142.166.170.101, 208.94.132.227, 123.125.66.133, 88.191.89.58, 207.179.181.130, 67.195.111.172, 67.195.114.42, 216.129.119.42, 64.13.222.190, 66.219.58.34, 174.127.132.155, 216.129.119.11, 76.224.210.116, 67.195.111.34, 120.9.184.135, 66.249.68.161, 142.166.170.102, 208.118.60.154, 174.127.132.136, 66.249.68.245, 142.166.170.104, 76.97.39.14, 63.215.202.234, 76.118.117.41, 24.12.248.248, 70.126.192.46, 38.99.97.10, 208.35.40.67, 66.249.67.218, 66.249.67.12, 24.3.136.98, 69.247.126.33, 173.8.230.130, 81.94.205.98, 66.249.68.120, 218.28.29.236, 87.250.252.241, 66.249.68.204, 66.249.67.142, 113.128.2.167, 98.228.243.225, 113.128.8.129, 64.74.243.101, 203.131.250.162, 67.195.37.188, 67.195.112.114, 64.92.13.194, 142.166.170.103, 142.166.170.21, 71.96.2.21, 66.249.68.149, 66.235.124.59, 75.207.35.27, 67.195.112.28, 66.249.67.179, 123.125.66.67, 203.174.147.58, 66.249.67.146, 217.14.6.210, 38.100.8.50, 66.249.68.155, 83.136.201.3, 38.99.96.15, 38.105.83.11, 174.129.237.157, 65.55.218.158, 12.155.219.1, 65.55.106.232, 66.249.68.187, 208.115.111.245, 94.169.191.51, 67.195.112.88, 66.249.68.175, 65.55.106.181, 67.195.115.214, 65.55.106.163, 67.195.115.44, 65.55.109.18, 208.115.111.244, 66.249.68.81, 85.25.124.132, 67.195.114.230, 67.195.113.247, 131.246.19.201, 38.99.96.233, 67.195.113.227, 123.125.66.62, 207.46.195.242
1/21 NBA Shoot Around
2
No
Lakers, Cavaliers, Celtics, 25, Wizards, Rockets, Bulls, Nets
67
1/21 NBA Shoot Around
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-12-26T12:08:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
105
6726
<p> It's Boxing Day, which of course is a chance to return all those unwanted presents.</p><p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>As for me, at least I got one item off of <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/feliz-navidad">my Christmas List</a>. The Celtics solved the Magic in Orlando 86-77. It was a low scoring game featuring a low shooting percentage by both teams. Paul Pierce missed the game, and Kevin Garnett watched the end nursing an injury, but the end result was a win in the first game of ABC's doubleheader, which marks the unofficial beginning to the NBA regular season. This year, the teams with the four best records faced off in the Christmas special.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The second game was another treat, like that unexpected Christmas bonus I am sure that I will be getting from my boss. The Lakers went down in defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Meanwhile, while some reports are that <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/lebron-james-and-dwyane-wade-on-the-same-team">LeBron James will team up with Dwayne Wade</a>, Nike presented a scenario where Kobe Bryant and James team up with Santa to take on the reindeer. If you missed it, the <a href="http://ballhype.com/video/mvpuppets-dunking-on-reindeer-1/">video is here</a>. Very puppet worthy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Happy Boxing Day</p>
74.98.182.41
2009-12-26T12:08:00-05:00
nba-on-christmas-day
No
Yes
74.98.182.41, 66.249.67.229, 67.195.111.172, 174.37.205.85, 66.249.68.233, 67.195.112.159, 142.166.170.21, 142.166.3.122, 67.195.114.223, 72.44.54.68, 218.28.29.236, 142.166.170.102, 38.99.98.21, 66.249.68.150, 66.166.111.121, 209.249.53.43, 72.30.142.161, 85.25.124.4, 123.125.66.21, 123.125.66.107, 74.6.17.158, 87.250.252.241, 71.201.120.52, 119.63.198.41, 85.25.124.167, 66.249.67.79, 66.249.67.58, 72.17.142.102, 207.241.228.152, 71.165.223.63, 74.53.3.132, 66.249.68.219, 66.249.68.251, 205.155.235.69, 66.249.68.143, 146.115.57.246, 66.249.67.123, 38.100.8.50, 174.133.177.66, 67.218.116.131, 72.72.50.117, 92.241.182.23, 71.201.170.62, 213.89.137.137, 38.100.41.105, 91.205.175.4, 216.129.119.11, 66.249.65.109, 66.249.65.119, 113.27.157.147, 202.131.30.146, 66.249.68.137, 65.55.207.51, 66.249.67.162, 67.195.114.243, 65.55.106.227, 66.249.68.214, 67.195.114.42, 123.125.66.94, 65.55.216.53, 66.150.224.245, 66.235.124.57, 66.249.68.248, 216.129.119.42, 205.209.170.11, 67.195.111.34, 66.249.68.245, 65.55.106.131, 65.126.140.202, 24.63.82.43, 66.249.68.204, 65.55.106.160, 113.128.8.129, 205.209.170.19, 99.70.232.215, 91.214.248.2, 65.55.106.138, 65.55.207.27, 67.195.112.114, 65.55.110.88, 67.195.111.167, 67.195.37.188, 24.2.188.154, 123.125.66.62, 38.105.83.11, 61.247.222.45, 65.55.106.205, 67.195.112.28, 66.249.67.120, 65.55.109.168, 142.166.170.103, 208.115.111.246, 65.55.109.13, 67.195.112.88, 208.115.111.245, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.114.230, 66.249.68.81, 85.25.124.132, 67.195.115.44, 123.125.66.96, 61.247.222.46, 67.195.113.247, 207.46.204.181, 207.46.13.87
NBA on Christmas Day
2
No
Cavaliers, Magic, Celtics, Lakers
67
NBA on Christmas Day
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-12-18T13:17:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
138
6634
<p> My last look at the NBA was December 2nd. The Lakers and Celtics are still at the top, but there have been some moves in the middle.</p><p> </p>
<div>
<p> 1 L.A. Lakers (20-4, previous ranking #1) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Lakers have gone 6-1 since the last ranking, but remain in the top spot until they are passed, not tied. They are also 18-0 when they score 100 points. Kobe Bryant's team has a strong start in their title defense. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>2 Boston Celtics (14-4, previous ranking #2) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Winners of 11 in a row, the Celtics are 12-0 against teams below .500. The rest of the Atlantic Division is below .400. They can match the Lakers record, but remain 2nd because of a weak division. Kevin Garnett is back, and the team hopes to return to 2008 glory. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>3 Atlanta Hawks (18-6, previous rank 8th) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Took over the lead in the Southeast, 2nd in the East. The Hawks have won 5 in a row. Earlier in the season they won 7 in a row from November 7 to November 20. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>4 Denver Nuggets (19-7, previous rank 5th) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now 2nd in the West, they are leaders of the Northwest Division (OK, so the NBA is challenged in geography, but so are other leagues) Carmelo Anthony leads the team with 30.7 points per game. The Nuggets are 15-1 in games where they lead in FG pct. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>5 Dallas Mavericks (19-7, previously 6th) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>One of four teams with a 19-7 record. Leaders of the Southwest Division, 3rd in West.</p>
<p>Bamababe2k9's article on <a href="http://playerpress.com/teams/mavericks/mavericks-and-nowitzki-get-off-to-a-good-start-to-begin-the-season">Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>6 Cleveland Cavaliers (19-7, previously 7th) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Leaders of the Central Division, 3rd in the East. Shaq hopes to have one final shot at a Championship and LeBron James is hoping for his first. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>7 Orlando Magic (19-7, previously 3rd) </p>
<p> </p>
<p> The Magic are now 2nd in the Southeast, 4th in the East. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>8 Phoenix Suns (17-9, previously 3rd) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Suns are 3-5 since the last snapshot on December 2nd. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>9 Utah Jazz (15-10, previously 12th) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>By contrast, the Jazz have gone 5-3 and moved up to 5th in the competitive West. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>10 Portland Trailblazers (16-11) previous rank 9 (12-8) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>M.C. Homer's coverage of <a href="http://playerpress.com/teams/trailblazers-nba/blazing-a-trail-away-from-jail">the Trailblazers</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>11 San Antonio Spurs (13-10) previously 10th (9-6) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bamababe2k9's coverage on <a href="http://playerpress.com/teams/rockets/the-spurs-and-rockets-struggle-to-keep-pace-in-division">the Spurs</a> and the Rockets. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>12 Houston Rockets (14-11) previous 14th (9-8) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bamababe2k9's coverage on the <a href="http://playerpress.com/teams/rockets/the-spurs-and-rockets-struggle-to-keep-pace-in-division">Rockets</a>. 8th in the West. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>13 Miami Heat (13-11) previous 11 (10-7) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>3rd in the Southeast, 5th in the East. 3-4 since the last snapshot, the East gets weaker. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>14 Oklahoma City Thunder (12-12) previous 15 (9-8) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>This team lost one more game than it won, still moves up a spot due to others falling. It also shows that the NBA should rank playoff teams 1-16 and forget about the East and West. The Thunder at .500 have a better record than 3 East playoff teams. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> 15 Milwaukee Bucks (11-12) previously 13 (9-7) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Despite going 2-5, they remain 2nd in the Central, and 6th in the East. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>16 New Orleans Hornets (11-13) previously 21 (7-11) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Chris Paul's team has improved, going 4-2. Still, first they have to get back to .500, then they need to find their way into the playoff picture. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> 17 Sacramento Kings (11-13) previously 16 (8-8) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Stuck in mediocrity. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>18 L.A. Clippers (11-13) previously 17 (8-10)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>MC Homer writes about the <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/no-longer-the-nba-laughing-stock">improvement of the Clippers</a>. Sure, it is better. They would be in the playoffs in the East. But they are not. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>19 Detroit Pistons (11-14) previous 24 (6-11) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>5-3 since the last snapshot moves the Pistons up a few spots and into 7th in the East. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>20 Charlotte Bobcats (10-14) previously 18 (7-10) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Four teams in the west are ahead of the Bobcats, but Charlotte makes the playoffs due to the current format. In the old days, the top seeds in each division had a first round bye. These days, the Bobcats are the equivalent of a bye. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>21 Memphis Grizzlies (10-15) previously 26 (6-12) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another example of a team improving (4-3 since last snapshot) but is far away from making a difference. Another victim of geography. If they could move to the Atlantic Division, which makes more sense than Southwest Division, they would be ahead of four other teams. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>22 Toronto Raptors (11-17) previously 23 (7-12) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>22nd best record in the NBA, second best in the Atlantic Division. Good thing second in a division is not really worth anything. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>23 Indiana Pacers (9-14) previously 20 (6-9) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>3-5 since the last snapshot, but only one half game out of playoff pretending. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>24 Chicago Bulls (9-15) previously 19 (6-9) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>At last snapshot, the Bulls were in 8th in the East, still only one game out. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>25 Washington Wizards (7-16) Previously 22 (6-10)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Capitals have 48 points and are leading the Southeast. Oh, wait, these are the Wizards. I just figured with the Nationals, and the Redskins, I would focus on the positive. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>26 Golden State Warriors (7-18, was 25)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>MC Homer's article on <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/not-so-golden-state-of-mind">the Warriors</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>27 Philadelphia 76ers (6-19) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>B-Dub "<a href="http://playerpress.com/teams/76ers-nba/the-answer-is-money">answers</a>" the question: why did Philadelphia sign Allen Iverson? Next question: Did it make a difference? At 1-6? No. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>28 New York Knicks (8-17) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>How bad is the Atlantic Division? Three of the teams have the four worst records in the NBA. Actually, the Knicks should be ahead of Philadelphia. But it requires too much editing for teams that are this bad. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>29 Minnesota Timberwolves (4-22) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Good news, Minnesota doubled their win total since the last snapshot. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>30 New Jersey Nets (2-24) </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Good news, the Nets finally won. Actually won 2. Still in 30th place.</p>
</div>
76.97.188.228
2009-12-18T13:17:00-05:00
1218-snapshot-of-the-nba
No
Yes
66.249.68.233, 123.125.66.45, 174.129.141.17, 174.37.205.86, 67.195.111.172, 76.97.188.228, 174.129.155.45, 64.13.147.189, 75.101.146.81, 166.90.142.9, 67.207.201.140, 89.151.84.34, 67.220.192.215, 208.74.66.61, 70.37.66.245, 208.74.66.39, 216.24.142.46, 174.129.104.29, 79.99.6.106, 72.44.43.230, 38.113.234.180, 216.24.142.45, 67.202.5.6, 67.202.10.201, 142.166.3.122, 89.151.116.56, 72.44.48.172, 74.86.229.192, 67.218.99.195, 64.62.134.170, 216.129.119.81, 76.30.97.44, 65.52.18.116, 12.37.155.14, 66.249.67.229, 89.151.116.59, 77.68.54.12, 4.78.248.3, 174.133.61.66, 67.195.112.159, 212.227.136.205, 67.195.114.223, 66.235.124.55, 142.166.170.100, 203.12.30.190, 218.28.29.236, 123.125.66.110, 142.166.170.102, 69.64.69.142, 87.250.252.241, 74.6.8.89, 66.249.67.134, 38.99.98.168, 207.224.147.155, 174.127.132.126, 38.99.98.21, 66.249.67.82, 119.63.198.27, 174.133.177.66, 142.166.170.101, 67.170.216.209, 72.30.142.161, 85.25.124.4, 209.249.53.43, 65.55.106.139, 85.25.124.167, 142.166.170.104, 76.125.60.170, 67.183.134.55, 67.108.179.250, 66.249.68.219, 74.53.3.132, 75.101.190.184, 66.249.68.166, 65.55.207.98, 74.6.17.158, 38.100.8.50, 66.249.68.143, 65.55.207.100, 123.125.66.43, 92.241.182.23, 38.100.41.105, 66.249.65.109, 66.249.65.119, 207.241.228.152, 65.55.106.187, 66.249.68.137, 66.249.67.162, 67.195.114.243, 67.195.114.42, 65.55.207.102, 66.249.65.171, 66.150.224.245, 66.249.68.248, 216.129.119.42, 205.209.170.11, 67.218.116.131, 69.115.241.123, 67.195.111.34, 65.55.207.131, 65.55.106.160, 66.249.68.245, 69.247.126.33, 173.8.230.130, 113.128.8.129, 123.125.66.73, 67.195.112.85, 205.209.170.19, 66.249.67.12, 66.249.68.225, 67.195.37.188, 142.166.170.21, 98.165.171.251, 38.99.97.126, 67.195.112.114, 209.202.168.78, 67.195.112.28, 65.55.106.134, 62.75.218.97, 65.55.106.133, 38.105.83.11, 65.55.110.197, 38.99.96.15, 208.115.111.246, 77.88.50.49, 67.195.112.88, 123.125.66.133, 67.195.115.44, 67.195.115.214, 208.115.111.245, 207.46.204.239, 66.249.68.81, 85.25.124.132, 67.195.114.230, 67.195.113.227, 38.99.96.233, 67.195.113.247, 207.46.199.40
12/18 Snapshot of the NBA
2
No
Lakers, Celtics, Hawks, Nuggets, Magic, Suns
67
12/18 Snapshot of the NBA
793
writer
wire
123
5
0
2009-12-10T16:37:00-05:00
Playerpress
Yes
215
6510
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The Boston Celtics have won 8 games in a row and they are tied for the lead with the Orlando Magic in the Western Conference with a 17-4 record.<span style=""> </span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The Celtics will now be hitting the road for games in <st1:state w:st="on">Washington</st1:state>, <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city> and <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Memphis</st1:city></st1:place>. However, this does not concern the Celtics one bit so ever. The Celtics are 9-1 on the road this season so playing games on the opponent’s courts obviously does not bother them in the least.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Their problems seem to show up more at the Garden, where they have an 8-3 record, then they do on the road. Right now their main goal is to play better at home.<span style=""> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">"I think we're where we want to be, especially on the road," said <span class="SpellE">Rajon</span> Rondo. "The key at home is getting off to good starts. We've done a great job on the road, but now we have to carry it over, keep going, and keep getting better."</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Doc Rivers thinks that the fact that his team is not satisfied is a great thing at this point of the season.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">"We're (9-1 on the road) and it's great," Rivers said. "But I read the comments from some of our guys in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">San Antonio</st1:place></st1:city>, and what I liked is that a lot of them weren't happy with how we played. Those are good signs for your team. We're winning games and we're very happy with the record, but we're not a finished product either."</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is a great sign for the Celtics. Even though they lead the conference and their division, they want more. Once a team gets satisfied and complacent about winning that is when the winning stops. A team that is always hungry and wants to improve regardless of their record or how well they are playing at the time is the sign of a championship caliber team.<span style=""> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">When Paul Pierce was asked what he is learning about his team, he said, "I don't know if I'm learning anything. I know we're just continuing to get better and continuing to build. It's a long season, and that's the key for us. We don't get excited because it's a seven-game winning streak. The whole goal for us is to continue to play. We learn from wins and losses and continue to get better. We know what it takes to be on the road. We're not new to this. We all have the mindset that we have to take care of business."</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Right now the <span class="GramE">teams</span> biggest concern is the lack of rebounds on both boards. Even with a victory over the Bucks, the Celtics were out rebounded by nine in the game.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">"We can get away with winning now, but we're not going to win in the long run if we don't start rebounding," said Doc Rivers after the game.</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span class="GramE">"Obviously, our rebounding has to get better,” Said Marquis Daniels.</span> “We have to continue to get better on the road and protect our home court. It's execution. <span class="GramE">There's</span> a lot of things we can get better at."</p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is just the attitude that <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Doc</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Rivers</st1:placetype></st1:place> and the fans of the Boston Celtics want to hear.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
76.97.188.228
2009-12-10T16:37:00-05:00
6510-6510-6510-6510-6510-6510-celtics-on-the-road-again
No
Yes
66.249.68.230, 76.97.188.228, 89.151.116.52, 208.74.66.61, 70.37.92.166, 67.202.11.49, 174.129.193.99, 174.129.58.57, 193.39.112.207, 74.201.117.226, 174.129.107.161, 38.104.134.114, 216.39.58.18, 69.36.233.15, 64.246.135.98, 64.191.203.34, 174.133.61.66, 216.24.131.119, 67.218.99.195, 174.129.141.109, 67.202.38.165, 70.37.66.245, 67.202.10.201, 123.125.66.39, 66.249.67.174, 123.125.66.54, 174.37.205.76, 211.115.109.14, 94.192.69.57, 216.129.119.81, 174.143.252.119, 208.74.66.62, 174.129.193.77, 75.101.232.27, 72.44.49.134, 72.13.91.40, 79.99.6.106, 67.202.63.158, 174.129.70.181, 75.101.139.240, 72.44.48.172, 78.151.83.201, 174.129.175.212, 99.59.235.129, 72.93.213.187, 204.152.200.218, 72.14.194.33, 208.64.160.58, 208.74.66.36, 75.101.203.230, 142.166.170.100, 67.18.5.139, 174.129.155.45, 63.215.202.234, 208.74.66.39, 66.249.68.172, 89.151.116.61, 174.129.104.29, 75.101.197.164, 67.195.112.159, 74.3.208.147, 72.44.54.68, 206.53.147.66, 116.50.181.247, 122.52.243.67, 67.195.111.172, 66.135.56.37, 216.24.142.47, 67.188.7.118, 208.74.66.38, 74.132.26.45, 76.94.31.21, 64.13.222.190, 208.54.90.70, 66.150.224.245, 87.250.252.241, 96.252.112.115, 65.200.151.66, 216.207.146.78, 88.246.77.247, 67.195.114.223, 216.84.77.60, 69.73.219.239, 75.69.221.205, 74.93.252.174, 62.48.185.205, 166.199.40.39, 69.21.29.54, 129.64.195.111, 24.62.120.146, 140.233.93.176, 38.98.19.111, 96.237.69.40, 69.171.160.54, 75.72.163.39, 141.154.113.166, 91.196.80.14, 71.207.160.178, 38.100.19.10, 206.53.153.175, 72.72.5.66, 67.218.116.131, 190.141.97.177, 131.109.81.223, 95.108.157.251, 208.118.60.154, 85.96.152.22, 216.24.142.45, 216.129.119.11, 67.202.15.176, 66.249.68.152, 68.58.76.108, 72.30.142.161, 142.166.3.122, 216.129.119.42, 128.232.11.80, 206.51.231.26, 84.241.59.74, 85.73.57.94, 68.28.91.116, 76.30.97.44, 66.249.68.195, 38.100.41.112, 74.98.182.41, 66.249.67.229, 71.167.239.102, 209.202.168.81, 66.249.67.82, 212.227.136.205, 78.101.96.62, 66.249.68.233, 38.99.98.16, 218.28.29.236, 67.218.116.134, 222.231.42.188, 122.3.13.75, 174.133.177.66, 142.166.170.103, 85.25.124.4, 119.63.198.29, 71.233.45.116, 206.53.153.148, 38.99.98.28, 85.25.124.167, 66.249.68.20, 123.125.66.52, 65.55.106.158, 174.36.241.148, 38.99.98.142, 66.135.56.32, 123.125.66.104, 207.241.228.152, 74.53.3.132, 206.53.153.225, 38.100.8.50, 72.72.50.117, 66.249.68.143, 66.249.67.123, 92.241.182.23, 38.100.41.105, 69.58.178.33, 67.195.114.42, 65.55.207.118, 65.55.106.111, 65.55.106.185, 66.249.68.245, 123.125.66.94, 24.245.21.49, 67.195.111.34, 67.195.112.85, 113.128.8.129, 205.209.170.19, 99.70.232.215, 203.131.250.162, 38.99.97.10, 159.83.4.153, 66.249.67.142, 67.195.37.188, 67.195.111.167, 67.195.112.114, 142.166.170.21, 98.165.171.251, 65.55.106.112, 66.249.68.225, 65.55.207.23, 38.99.96.15, 38.105.83.11, 69.58.178.27, 65.55.110.95, 67.195.112.28, 174.37.205.67, 66.249.68.187, 142.166.170.60, 174.36.228.154, 174.36.241.149, 67.195.110.171, 174.37.205.91, 142.166.170.102, 195.42.102.25, 123.125.66.117, 67.195.112.88, 66.249.68.251, 66.249.68.236, 207.172.120.134, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.114.230, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.115.44, 85.25.124.132, 94.23.15.84, 95.24.251.28, 67.195.113.247, 184.73.226.116, 67.195.113.227, 66.249.67.108, 69.58.178.29
Celtics on the Road Again
2
No
Boston Celtics, NBA, Doc Rivers, Marquis Daniels, Rajon Rondo, Paul Pierce
67
Celtics on the Road Again
231
administrator
article
123
5
0
2009-12-02T09:23:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
130
6316
<p> Every now and then I get nostalgic, thinking about my younger days.</p><p> So I read B-Dub's article on the <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/ten-worst-sports-movies-of-all-time">worst sports movies</a>, and noticed that he missed <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115851/"><em>Celtic Pride</em></a>. Maybe missed is the wrong word here. I mean, if you have not seen it, and you decide to do it, it is 90 minutes of your like that you can not get back.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Still I would not trade the three weeks that I worked on the movie. As I mentioned in my article <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/everyone-s-going-to-the-movies">"Everyone's going to the movies"</a>, my participation mostly involved cheering "Here we go Celtics, here we go..." On the first day of shooting, there was a scene on the old green line elevated riding in to the game at North Station. It was actually my biggest scene. Unfortunately, it did not make the final cut.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>As I mentioned in the comment section of B-Dub's article, when Dan Akroyd and Dan Stern came into the Boston Garden, they genuflect. And there I was on the big screen. I had followed them in from the deleted scene on the trolley. I did have other scenes that did make the final movie, but many of them require slow motion and pause.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>But there were other memorable moments. On our first pay day, they held a lottery, and most everyone participated, and Dan Akroyd announced my name as the winner of the pool. Actually, he first said that the Boston extras were better than the Hollywood extras. And he thanked the crowd for the gift, which was the money in the pool. Then he picked the winner.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>There were an interesting mix of people among the extras. Some were seeking Hollywood fame in a world before reality TV. It was interesting to get a behind the scenes look at how a major movie was made. There were plenty of tricks to make Damon Wayans a basketball player. There were plenty of crates piled up under the hoop. There was one stunt double to dunk, another to handle the ball. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Others were interested in the end of an era as the original Boston Garden came to a close. I met a man who came from Iowa to get as much nostalgia that he could. And at every opportunity, he would collect the numbers off of the seats, t-shirts celebrating the 17th championship, scripts, or production schedules. He actually figured out when the last day of filming in the Garden, and helped get us on the parquet for a pickup game with Daniel Stern. I had a call from a collector that offered to pay me for anything that I could acquire.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The basketball uniforms in the movie had numbers that did not make any sense. The Celtics have so many numbers retired that they actually have a retired name. Then there were the active numbers. It did not leave numbers for the actors. I have seen some movies about the Yankees and they have a similar problem.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>When it all wrapped up, I could not wait for the release of the film. It was a big disappointment. I was so disappointed, that I passed on a chance to be an extra in <em>The Perfect Storm</em>. As a side note, it is interesting that Christopher McDonald was in both of these movies. But not me. Still, sometimes, I think about those movie days, when I was a part of the making of Celtic Pride.</p>
<p> </p>
173.71.147.35
2009-12-02T09:23:00-05:00
the-making-of-celtic-pride
No
Yes
200.126.226.16, 66.249.65.200, 174.36.241.157, 66.249.65.199, 76.97.188.228, 89.151.116.54, 67.202.11.49, 216.24.131.118, 75.101.197.164, 193.39.112.207, 66.219.58.34, 208.74.66.36, 208.74.66.62, 89.151.116.61, 70.37.66.245, 123.125.66.32, 142.166.3.122, 216.24.142.47, 142.166.170.100, 64.15.129.143, 142.166.170.102, 67.195.112.159, 67.195.111.172, 119.63.198.20, 66.249.68.227, 67.228.189.217, 216.129.119.11, 67.218.116.131, 142.166.170.104, 123.125.66.110, 72.44.54.68, 70.168.11.99, 174.142.82.13, 66.249.67.21, 66.235.124.57, 68.116.183.172, 63.117.121.41, 66.249.68.230, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 119.63.198.16, 66.249.68.172, 67.218.116.134, 67.195.114.223, 216.129.119.42, 66.249.67.183, 66.249.68.195, 38.100.41.112, 66.249.68.233, 66.249.67.229, 72.70.38.146, 67.202.15.176, 212.227.136.205, 163.251.196.3, 70.127.91.1, 98.203.183.203, 63.215.202.234, 87.250.252.241, 174.133.177.66, 85.25.124.4, 123.125.66.106, 66.249.68.139, 65.55.207.121, 85.25.124.167, 95.133.168.17, 65.55.107.179, 74.6.17.158, 97.125.226.242, 207.241.228.152, 66.249.68.219, 74.53.3.132, 69.115.241.123, 66.249.68.166, 66.249.68.143, 38.100.8.50, 65.55.106.162, 92.241.182.23, 38.100.41.105, 65.55.110.99, 66.249.67.72, 88.159.73.53, 66.249.68.137, 65.55.106.131, 65.55.106.232, 67.195.114.42, 67.195.111.34, 123.125.66.127, 98.247.50.221, 66.249.68.248, 66.249.67.76, 66.249.68.245, 62.178.217.28, 24.245.21.49, 113.128.8.129, 65.55.207.30, 66.249.67.12, 65.55.106.109, 67.195.37.188, 142.166.170.21, 67.195.112.28, 67.195.112.114, 174.59.99.127, 123.125.66.96, 65.55.109.108, 38.105.83.11, 130.209.239.6, 65.55.106.160, 66.249.68.225, 66.249.68.155, 76.18.205.135, 66.249.67.85, 38.99.96.15, 65.55.109.13, 208.115.111.246, 77.88.50.49, 67.195.115.44, 67.195.114.230, 209.249.53.190, 67.195.115.214, 66.249.68.81, 85.25.124.132, 208.115.111.245, 207.46.195.240, 98.212.24.229, 67.195.113.227, 68.93.154.151, 123.125.66.133, 67.195.113.247, 66.249.68.236, 66.249.67.108
The Making Of Celtic Pride
2
No
Dan Akroyd, Daniel Stern, Damon Wayans
67
The Making Of Celtic Pride
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-11-06T07:59:00-05:00
Playerpress
No
144
5958
<p> The NBA season is into it's second week, and two teams remain undefeated.</p><p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Boston Celtics (6-0)</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Boston Celtics are 6-0. Kevin Garnett's return from injury has paid immediate dividends in the defensive presence of the team. In the first 6 games, no team has scored more than 90 points against Boston. In the most recent outing, the Timberwolves did reach that high point, in fact, they were a Corey Brewer basket away from tying the Celtics late, but Garnett again made his presence felt and prevented the hoop en route to a 92-90 win.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Captain, Paul Pierce, leads the team with a 19.7 PPG average, but the Celts also feature an even distribution of scoring, 7 players averaging 9 points or better. This is an example of the improvement of the Celtics bench, with newcomer Rasheed Wallace, who is leading the green team as the 6th man. Eddie House has also been impressive, including a 22 point effort off the bench in a win over the Bulls on October 30. Radio announcer Cedric Maxwell reminds listeners that "You can't forget to guard the House."</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The bench has done well, but they have done it without Glen "Big Baby" Davis. <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/big-baby-drama">Davis was in an altercation the weekend before the season started</a>. Davis was a big part of the '09 Celtics playoff run, but will be out for 6-8 weeks. The Celtics have also signed guard Rajon Rondo to a contract extension. The Celtics face a tough test hosting the Phoenix Suns tonight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Denver Nuggets (5-0)</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Nuggets are also out to a quick start. After opening the season in a high scoring affair against the Utah Jazz (114-105), the Nuggets also won the second half of the back to back in Portland in a close game (97-94). Denver started November with another high scoring game hosting Memphis (133-123). Then the Nuggets won back to back games over Indiana and the New Jersey Nets.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Nuggets are led by Carmelo Anthony, who is averaging 32 PPG. Chauncey Billups is second in the team in scoring with an average of 21 PPG. The Nuggets have a back-to-back this weekend in the Southeast, playing the Miami Heat tonight and in Atlanta tomorrow.</p>
173.50.79.224
2009-11-06T07:59:00-05:00
celtics-and-nuggets-start-season-undefeated
No
Yes
200.126.226.16, 66.249.68.227, 123.125.66.38, 72.30.142.161, 67.195.115.163, 66.249.67.238, 174.36.241.149, 76.97.188.228, 174.129.107.161, 66.135.56.32, 67.195.113.245, 38.100.8.50, 216.129.119.11, 67.195.115.61, 67.195.112.109, 89.253.70.223, 76.167.189.22, 67.202.15.176, 66.249.68.242, 71.98.81.78, 67.218.116.131, 66.249.68.25, 119.63.199.35, 66.249.67.79, 213.149.247.102, 67.218.116.134, 38.105.83.13, 67.195.114.233, 66.249.67.207, 128.30.52.70, 38.108.180.131, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 85.25.124.132, 112.202.227.250, 79.183.103.138, 87.106.232.224, 66.249.67.206, 65.208.151.116, 216.129.119.41, 218.28.29.234, 123.125.66.110, 67.195.37.172, 66.235.124.54, 216.129.119.44, 130.246.45.90, 67.195.112.159, 216.129.119.43, 66.249.65.200, 77.88.51.29, 66.249.65.199, 67.195.111.172, 208.43.229.68, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.40, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 163.1.5.150, 91.205.173.243, 204.12.248.194, 217.14.6.210, 142.166.3.122, 65.55.106.111, 38.100.41.112, 65.55.207.54, 142.166.170.103, 66.249.68.233, 212.227.136.205, 38.99.98.111, 67.191.195.249, 87.250.252.241, 65.55.106.108, 76.121.65.72, 66.249.67.82, 174.133.177.66, 96.252.176.200, 85.25.124.4, 67.195.114.223, 123.125.66.105, 38.99.98.35, 85.25.124.167, 65.55.207.117, 66.177.177.208, 74.6.17.158, 207.46.199.195, 65.55.51.114, 207.46.199.200, 207.46.199.198, 65.55.216.10, 65.55.51.115, 207.46.199.179, 72.72.50.117, 66.249.68.143, 38.98.19.111, 207.46.199.191, 38.100.41.105, 207.241.228.152, 65.55.110.243, 207.46.199.177, 65.55.106.181, 67.195.111.34, 123.125.66.93, 38.99.98.159, 65.55.107.229, 38.99.97.55, 65.55.109.185, 66.249.68.245, 65.55.106.158, 65.55.207.47, 66.249.67.12, 67.195.114.42, 24.13.79.25, 68.47.16.207, 66.249.68.149, 24.12.204.79, 113.128.8.129, 71.98.195.149, 66.83.112.82, 99.48.49.201, 75.135.149.172, 67.195.37.188, 65.55.51.110, 209.202.168.78, 67.195.111.167, 67.195.112.114, 142.166.170.21, 65.55.207.23, 174.59.99.127, 123.125.66.120, 38.105.83.11, 67.195.112.28, 142.166.170.104, 208.115.111.246, 65.55.109.244, 78.52.196.39, 66.249.67.53, 67.195.114.230, 207.46.204.197, 67.195.115.214, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.113.227, 67.195.113.247, 123.125.66.126, 66.249.67.108
Celtics And Nuggets Start Season Undefeated
2
No
Celtics, Nuggets, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Glen Davis, Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups
67
Celtics And Nuggets Start Season Undefeated
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-10-31T10:51:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
143
5883
<p> The Celtics are off to a less than perfect 3-0 start.</p><p>Well, sure, you can't have a better record than 3-0 after 3 games. And the C's easily handled the Chicago Bulls, who last season presented quite a challenge in the playoffs. Eddie "Don't forget to guard the" House had 22 points off the bench. New acquisition Rasheed Wallace also provides depth to the Celts bench, and the "green team", as the bench has often been called, has been making a difference in these early season games.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>So why is the start less than perfect? Missing from the green team on the bench is Glen "Big Baby" Davis. Last weekend, before the start of the season, Davis got involved in a little bit of an incident. Here are the characters:</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>1) an NBA player with a nickname of Big Baby</p>
<p>2) the NBA player's girlfriend</p>
<p>3) the NBA player's childhood friend </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Possibly, drinking was involved. Who knows for sure, although there is a police report. And we know that police reports are always true, at least that's what Wikipedia says. And it is unclear what the fight was about, possibly some inappropriate comments were made by the childhood friend about the girlfriend. It really becomes a "he said / she said / he said" affair that is better off left in the tabloids, sports radio talk shows and internet blogs. Oh, wait, this is an internet blog. But what happened is not important, the result is what counts. Davis will be out for 6-8 weeks from an off court injury. Davis was a big part of the Celtics playoff run, and now he is missing the start of this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Celtics ownership was furious. One member of the group said he refused to call Davis "Big Baby" anymore, essentially saying he did not want to joke about the immaturity displayed by the young man. The C's originally announced that they wanted to suspend Davis. But later in the week, they changed their minds and imposed a fine, and suggested that by not being suspended he would be able to rehab with the team. Perhaps Wallace can teach Davis a thing or two about "Dealing with Controversy".</p>
<p> </p>
76.24.134.188
2009-10-31T10:51:00-04:00
big-baby-drama
No
Yes
174.36.241.155, 66.249.68.245, 66.249.67.133, 123.125.66.114, 76.97.188.228, 200.126.226.16, 75.101.197.164, 83.149.199.55, 216.24.142.47, 216.129.119.11, 174.46.170.179, 67.195.115.163, 67.218.116.131, 63.166.157.2, 218.28.29.234, 119.63.199.50, 66.235.124.58, 69.162.70.146, 38.108.180.131, 66.249.68.227, 194.36.10.7, 66.249.67.238, 38.108.180.23, 173.50.79.224, 78.33.237.147, 64.233.173.2, 38.100.8.50, 66.249.67.194, 66.249.67.41, 67.218.116.134, 129.234.193.194, 89.253.70.223, 67.218.116.163, 72.30.142.161, 67.195.112.109, 67.195.115.61, 67.202.15.176, 67.195.114.233, 205.158.160.209, 213.149.247.102, 38.105.83.13, 216.129.119.13, 66.249.68.242, 66.249.67.174, 67.218.116.164, 92.241.182.23, 66.249.67.66, 216.129.119.42, 85.25.124.132, 87.106.232.224, 67.218.116.132, 67.195.37.172, 66.249.67.206, 205.209.170.2, 67.195.112.159, 206.83.86.2, 216.129.119.40, 77.88.51.29, 66.80.35.40, 66.249.65.200, 63.215.202.234, 173.212.195.148, 65.55.207.27, 67.195.111.172, 66.249.65.199, 174.26.147.11, 208.43.229.68, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.111, 174.142.82.13, 66.249.67.210, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 91.205.173.243, 66.249.68.172, 66.249.67.229, 66.249.68.178, 65.55.107.180, 66.249.68.152, 142.166.3.122, 67.195.114.223, 66.249.68.195, 38.100.41.112, 66.249.67.82, 212.227.136.205, 65.55.207.99, 87.250.252.241, 24.2.245.64, 174.133.177.66, 66.249.68.233, 85.25.124.4, 123.125.66.41, 74.6.17.158, 38.99.98.35, 85.25.124.167, 76.123.107.199, 66.177.177.208, 65.55.106.162, 65.55.207.23, 65.55.107.214, 38.100.41.105, 91.205.175.4, 66.249.65.109, 67.195.114.243, 66.249.68.137, 67.195.111.34, 123.125.66.66, 38.99.98.159, 65.55.207.30, 65.55.106.139, 66.249.67.76, 67.195.114.42, 66.214.189.108, 113.128.8.129, 65.55.106.131, 65.55.106.114, 67.195.111.167, 142.166.170.21, 67.80.14.59, 67.195.37.188, 123.125.66.90, 67.195.112.114, 62.75.218.97, 38.105.83.11, 65.55.109.38, 129.234.193.111, 70.88.165.190, 65.75.125.137, 66.249.67.79, 67.195.112.28, 66.249.68.187, 59.100.159.223, 38.99.97.65, 208.115.111.246, 77.88.50.49, 67.195.112.88, 65.55.107.179, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.115.44, 65.55.110.226, 67.195.114.230, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.113.227, 123.125.66.81
Big Baby Drama
2
No
Glen Davis, Rasheed Wallace, Eddie House
67
Big Baby Drama
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-10-28T03:13:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
143
5836
<p> Well, no, not really.</p><p> I was still trying to get over the start of the NHL. (<a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/sshh-don-t-tell-anyone-#4960">Don't tell article</a>). I agree with MCHomer (see comments in NHL article) that the actual season does not start until June. And considering that it seems there are 5 teams that have a chance at the title (Lakers, Spurs, Magic, Cavs, and Celtics), you could tune in to the end of May and not miss a beat. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>ABC would have you believe that the season begins on Christmas. Thanks to TNT, I was able to watch my Celtics open the season in Cleveland from my home in Virginia. And as an added bonus, LA vs. LA in the nightcap.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Boston Celtics 95, Cleveland Cavaliers 89</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>For the Cavs, it was the home debut of Shaquille O'Neal. Shaq spent the summer as an ABC reality star in "<a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/shaq-vs-the-baltimore-bullet-part-5">Shaq vs.</a>". The Celtics were celebrating the return of Kevin Garnett and the debut of new acquisition Rasheed Wallace. The Cavs jumped out to a 19-5 lead on the way to a 28-21 first quarter. The Celtics tied the game at 32 before taking a 51-45 lead at the half. The Celtics showed depth on the bench (outscoring them 26-10) and were effective from three point range in spoiling the Cavs and winning in Cleveland for the first time in a long time. LeBron James led all scorers with 38 points.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>LA Lakers 99, LA Clippers 92</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>For a nightcap, TNT presented the ring ceremony for the Lakers. This was not the LA vs. LA matchup fans were hoping for this week, with dreams of a freeway World Series shattered with the loss of the Dodgers and the Angels. Seriously, the Clippers were the best opponent the schedule makers could find? The Clippers are 3rd on the list of NBA teams in number of Playerpress articles. It is the only top 10 list the Clippers make in any category. Or did they want to ensure a complete party for the Lakers? I still wonder how the Lakers count those Minneapolis championships (<a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/l-a-wins-10th-title">LA wins 10th title</a>).</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>In other NBA action, my new hometown team (Wizards) also won, as did Portland.</p>
<p>Washington Wizards 102, Dallas Mavericks 91</p>
<p>Portland Trail Blazers 96, Houston Rockets 87</p>
173.50.79.224
2009-10-28T03:13:00-04:00
are-you-ready-for-some-basketball
No
Yes
66.249.68.248, 123.125.66.109, 66.249.67.136, 174.36.228.156, 200.126.226.16, 76.97.188.228, 174.127.132.10, 83.149.199.55, 216.24.142.47, 216.24.142.46, 66.249.67.228, 65.222.217.211, 166.205.4.62, 68.215.207.235, 174.129.101.63, 67.202.46.241, 66.249.67.41, 67.195.115.163, 67.16.94.2, 208.43.229.67, 67.218.116.131, 67.195.37.95, 119.63.199.14, 174.46.170.179, 141.52.175.66, 216.129.119.11, 67.218.116.134, 66.249.68.245, 66.249.68.67, 218.28.29.234, 67.195.113.245, 173.50.79.224, 66.249.67.238, 69.162.70.146, 72.30.78.232, 66.249.67.194, 72.30.142.161, 67.218.116.163, 66.249.68.227, 194.36.10.7, 38.108.180.23, 216.129.119.13, 38.100.8.50, 69.133.117.171, 129.234.193.194, 67.195.112.107, 98.132.221.72, 89.253.70.223, 67.195.114.233, 67.195.112.109, 38.105.83.13, 66.249.68.242, 67.218.116.130, 216.129.119.44, 66.249.67.174, 67.218.116.132, 216.129.119.43, 67.218.116.133, 67.218.116.164, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 85.25.124.132, 216.129.119.41, 67.218.116.166, 87.106.232.224, 205.209.170.2, 67.195.112.159, 63.223.124.237, 67.195.114.223, 206.83.86.2, 65.55.106.180, 66.249.65.200, 216.129.119.14, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.110, 174.142.82.13, 65.55.207.134, 74.62.154.166, 66.249.68.230, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 91.205.173.243, 66.249.68.85, 66.249.67.99, 163.1.5.153, 66.249.68.152, 142.166.3.122, 66.249.67.251, 67.195.111.172, 38.100.41.112, 65.55.207.22, 212.227.136.205, 67.191.195.249, 87.250.252.241, 66.249.67.82, 65.55.106.187, 174.133.177.66, 66.249.68.233, 85.25.124.4, 123.125.66.15, 74.6.17.158, 38.99.98.35, 85.25.124.167, 66.177.177.208, 66.249.68.143, 38.100.41.105, 91.205.175.4, 207.241.228.152, 66.249.68.137, 67.195.114.42, 123.125.66.75, 65.55.207.27, 142.166.170.104, 38.99.98.159, 65.55.232.13, 65.55.207.97, 96.241.159.161, 67.195.111.34, 113.128.8.129, 24.151.101.86, 71.111.254.67, 66.249.67.12, 66.249.68.204, 67.195.112.114, 142.166.170.21, 67.195.37.188, 174.59.99.127, 123.125.66.83, 67.195.112.28, 65.55.106.157, 38.105.83.11, 208.115.111.246, 65.55.106.233, 67.195.112.88, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.115.44, 65.199.165.98, 66.249.67.79, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.113.247, 65.55.109.51, 207.46.12.108, 95.24.251.28, 67.195.113.227
Are You Ready For Some Basketball?
2
No
Celtics, Lakers, Wizards, Trail Blazers
67
Are You Ready For Some Basketball?
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-10-24T09:54:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
132
5780
<p> The NBA reached a 2 year agreement with the referees. </p><p>Yahoo sports provides this <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-refereeslockout&prov=ap&type=lgns">article on the new deal</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The usual contracts last for 5 years, but the union requested to shorten it in the hopes of getting a better deal if the economy would turn around sooner rather than later. The regular refs will now hurry to get ready for next week. The signing of the deal was just in time for the unofficial start of the 2009-2010 season. Of course, most fans know the preseason starts on Christmas when ABC begins their coverage and that the real season begins in mid-April. However, there were some sort of practice games which used scabs from the WNBA and some other developmental leagues. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>This <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-refereeslockout&prov=ap&type=lgns">Playerpress article from September 22</a> discussed the use of the replacements and the ongoing negotiations, and this other <a href="http://playerpress.com/articles/lockout-looming-nba-refs">article from MCHomer</a> on September 11 talks about the looming lockout. An interesting point from MCHomer is how Comissioner David Stern was setting an example for the players, who are also facing a possible work stoppage in the near future. It is a problem that extends into the other major sports in this country. The NFL is hearing rumors about a work stoppage. Major League Baseball already has been through one off-season in this current economic crisis and is looking at another one coming. Some sports are doing better than others while corporate sponsors disappear. NASCAR, which is built for corporate money, seems to be suffering the most in this economic climate. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>A few years ago, the MLB umpires tried to strike, and the league actually had some success against the union. And that was in better economic times. It also seems with improved technology, that many functions that an umpire performs could be replaced, if fans and those that run the game would mind losing the human element. Especially in this current baseball postseason, where there have been many questionable umpire calls. The response by MLB has been to change who would umpire the World Series. It's interesting to consider something like the strike zone, which can seem so arbitrary in the eyes of some umpires, but black and white in a TV replay or on Gameday on the computer. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Is technology going to make the skills of a good referee obsolete? Will the economy improve soon enough that the NBA refs get a better deal in 2 years? For now, at least the regular season is starting with some of the chaos of replacement referees avoided.</p>
<p> </p>
76.24.134.188
2009-10-24T09:54:00-04:00
zebras-sign-2-year-deal
No
Yes
66.249.68.248, 200.126.226.16, 174.36.241.148, 123.125.66.112, 66.249.67.136, 74.53.3.132, 74.52.45.250, 166.205.7.53, 72.30.78.232, 67.218.116.131, 72.30.79.93, 174.133.177.66, 118.220.175.207, 174.129.155.45, 174.129.107.161, 67.218.116.165, 66.249.68.182, 115.238.66.253, 75.164.150.26, 67.166.91.135, 216.129.119.11, 24.143.90.195, 208.43.229.66, 66.249.67.41, 141.52.175.32, 67.16.94.2, 67.195.115.163, 66.249.68.245, 174.46.170.179, 67.195.113.245, 119.63.199.29, 67.218.116.163, 66.249.67.238, 67.218.116.164, 66.249.68.227, 194.110.162.91, 66.235.124.55, 67.202.15.176, 38.108.180.23, 67.195.112.243, 38.100.8.50, 67.195.112.107, 216.129.119.41, 216.129.119.43, 89.253.70.223, 216.129.119.40, 67.218.116.133, 61.183.132.182, 219.27.136.73, 66.249.68.242, 67.195.112.109, 67.218.116.166, 219.137.120.6, 95.84.148.47, 38.105.83.13, 66.249.67.174, 95.215.1.3, 85.23.35.18, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 66.249.67.102, 85.25.124.132, 65.55.106.204, 87.106.232.224, 67.195.112.159, 206.83.86.2, 67.195.114.233, 65.55.106.133, 218.28.29.234, 66.249.65.200, 91.205.174.49, 217.14.6.72, 65.55.207.71, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.33, 66.249.67.21, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 65.55.106.232, 163.1.5.153, 142.166.3.122, 67.195.111.172, 38.100.41.112, 67.195.114.223, 66.249.67.82, 212.227.136.205, 87.250.252.241, 65.55.207.140, 122.3.12.59, 66.249.68.233, 85.25.124.4, 123.125.66.41, 65.55.106.207, 68.49.142.246, 38.99.98.35, 85.25.124.167, 195.210.57.83, 91.214.44.91, 69.89.15.140, 38.100.41.105, 65.55.232.21, 123.125.66.123, 38.99.98.159, 65.55.106.137, 67.195.114.42, 24.245.21.49, 65.55.207.120, 66.249.67.12, 113.128.8.129, 67.195.111.34, 99.70.232.215, 200.238.83.49, 95.215.0.39, 65.55.216.10, 142.166.170.21, 74.241.10.29, 67.195.37.188, 67.195.112.28, 123.125.66.86, 38.105.83.11, 130.209.239.6, 66.249.68.155, 65.55.106.227, 142.166.170.104, 67.195.112.114, 208.115.111.246, 67.195.115.44, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.114.230, 66.249.68.81, 95.24.251.28, 207.46.195.236
Zebras Sign 2 Year Deal
2
No
NBA referees, 2 year deal, bad economy
67
Zebras Sign 2 Year Deal
793
writer
article
123
5
1
2009-07-17T14:08:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
966
3873
<p> For many seasons, Antoine Walker wore the green as a player and captain of the Boston Celtics. Now it appears that Walker has lost all the green he ever had.</p><p> </p>
<p>Walker was arrested in Nevada with felony charges for writing bad checks to casinos. Reports are that he owes upwards of 800,000 in gambling debts. Adding in amounts that he has already paid back, and his debt skyrockets over 1 million.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In a career that spanned over 12 NBA seasons, Walker reportedly earned upwards of 100 million. He spent most of that time with the Celtics, and was the team captain. He eventually travelled around the league to several stops, winning a championship with the Miami Heat.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It's the latest in a long string of stories surfacing of former athletes being killed, getting arrested, and going bankrupt. There were the murders of former boxer Arturo Gatti and football player Steve McNair. Former baseball player Jim Leyritz faces many legal woes while another former baseball player, Lenny Dykstra, declares bankruptcy. If we could travel in a time machine, back 5 or 10 years, these athletes were competing for and winning championships. Now their lives are ruined, or over. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Walker sits in a jail cell unable to post bail, set at approximately 87,000. Through a bail bondsman, Walker would need to post 8,700. He used to wear jewelry that cost more than that. Now, he has lost it all.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>In these tough economic times, are you worried about losing it all? I was discussing this, along with Walker, to a friend who sent me this informative article by Ben Stein on the subject: Get It Right Today, Be Glad Tomorrow </em></p>
<p><a href="http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/yourlife/177033"><em>http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/yourlife/177033</em></a></p>
<pre style="white-space: normal; ">
by Ben Stein</pre>
0.0.0.0
2009-07-17T14:08:00-04:00
antoine-walker-the-losing-of-the-green
No
Yes
66.249.68.248, 66.249.67.41, 130.207.61.85, 166.137.6.189, 174.46.170.181, 65.55.106.160, 24.85.255.127, 65.55.207.76, 174.133.177.66, 70.220.107.77, 66.30.160.89, 98.201.110.139, 166.205.131.23, 70.171.110.33, 163.27.113.65, 173.13.87.49, 64.190.57.226, 205.135.136.10, 174.129.81.149, 71.232.248.81, 98.217.149.5, 198.185.66.249, 74.173.199.211, 171.161.160.10, 24.57.14.134, 75.17.110.61, 67.202.8.198, 209.115.216.85, 24.218.133.107, 24.12.245.52, 208.80.70.174, 76.193.23.10, 216.198.139.38, 65.55.106.179, 24.147.99.17, 76.16.178.208, 24.154.234.182, 63.115.59.178, 198.252.15.247, 71.232.49.235, 174.129.143.254, 174.129.101.63, 162.90.96.17, 167.24.104.150, 71.80.120.245, 205.188.116.131, 32.138.129.13, 32.138.228.195, 12.151.72.1, 32.138.188.97, 75.148.81.121, 69.26.86.126, 75.75.117.90, 24.61.80.97, 71.237.152.230, 174.129.114.74, 76.250.187.164, 218.32.73.12, 66.27.18.42, 69.107.78.204, 64.47.35.2, 74.201.4.10, 24.15.167.75, 148.177.1.211, 76.19.98.130, 152.38.130.80, 67.82.79.213, 67.63.6.114, 24.205.54.252, 76.24.255.168, 86.96.226.28, 204.108.96.18, 166.137.4.177, 200.32.203.194, 143.197.222.229, 141.197.12.183, 75.72.43.91, 173.11.146.5, 68.162.83.94, 75.57.79.215, 173.14.73.177, 216.223.13.111, 132.178.138.174, 99.152.162.90, 70.137.212.142, 72.243.161.66, 170.63.96.108, 82.169.116.73, 71.203.113.0, 96.32.28.226, 24.3.99.124, 12.177.226.23, 75.171.26.195, 207.172.214.176, 72.224.52.149, 131.107.0.101, 74.103.46.27, 70.146.85.218, 99.69.121.100, 75.165.42.71, 76.112.208.156, 76.30.187.138, 97.55.25.65, 147.241.0.6, 216.228.136.48, 67.202.34.153, 216.176.231.34, 12.239.93.18, 208.116.167.12, 216.136.49.77, 88.254.79.81, 161.38.221.245, 203.167.97.51, 64.122.164.200, 12.151.251.2, 66.250.141.150, 70.108.254.94, 72.34.20.42, 206.53.153.94, 71.195.168.247, 93.142.148.175, 12.144.36.2, 65.167.210.106, 167.102.162.14, 64.12.116.131, 151.151.98.235, 12.116.32.158, 72.8.38.109, 68.20.20.84, 199.74.155.50, 141.106.75.102, 166.205.4.160, 99.155.60.32, 112.203.79.65, 70.83.193.108, 76.99.60.84, 65.215.208.131, 98.208.111.54, 206.53.153.223, 202.138.159.5, 112.200.250.111, 66.83.13.74, 151.200.9.204, 174.129.87.184, 38.118.20.163, 159.53.78.144, 216.8.98.3, 199.125.14.2, 209.163.183.210, 199.111.188.161, 162.66.52.234, 71.192.90.100, 66.94.86.153, 199.242.6.29, 198.166.18.43, 206.53.153.220, 158.96.4.13, 99.230.52.61, 67.175.231.131, 173.59.49.250, 98.235.123.96, 208.54.94.30, 75.75.18.34, 98.161.39.89, 216.229.136.214, 72.194.196.93, 89.205.35.254, 79.175.100.85, 68.100.94.23, 69.81.128.72, 207.180.147.82, 209.112.210.106, 72.14.192.3, 166.137.132.18, 166.137.134.48, 72.194.120.141, 99.225.204.174, 72.177.93.106, 63.224.117.30, 65.80.42.165, 79.101.91.143, 66.249.68.245, 67.202.15.176, 71.233.57.131, 97.80.37.67, 98.227.47.145, 67.202.46.241, 72.93.1.227, 128.84.233.186, 24.98.180.194, 99.238.91.58, 68.175.9.157, 79.175.84.141, 173.88.241.233, 173.48.46.15, 69.181.116.168, 76.202.197.154, 166.137.4.34, 166.137.132.26, 76.182.30.19, 71.194.17.235, 75.206.138.86, 81.99.119.226, 66.249.67.133, 64.118.10.84, 68.28.147.114, 83.167.62.168, 12.170.156.2, 68.153.169.129, 166.109.0.71, 75.101.181.32, 216.114.95.129, 74.138.237.75, 12.40.161.138, 76.90.47.115, 99.191.223.189, 69.148.163.137, 63.166.157.2, 74.94.166.121, 204.76.113.51, 141.155.157.11, 216.54.131.253, 90.193.93.210, 160.36.236.70, 67.197.28.95, 66.249.68.227, 67.195.113.245, 65.88.43.2, 143.100.37.63, 152.17.119.182, 216.125.49.252, 67.174.17.31, 146.127.253.45, 140.241.0.20, 199.0.156.195, 136.167.227.61, 66.212.12.250, 67.195.115.163, 69.246.107.6, 206.53.153.207, 66.235.124.55, 66.235.124.56, 132.178.187.244, 166.137.134.179, 208.54.90.54, 112.201.75.205, 98.215.64.45, 173.30.174.130, 112.201.131.245, 119.93.51.14, 69.238.54.199, 64.107.217.3, 38.98.19.111, 68.153.171.99, 65.216.103.58, 76.112.157.123, 75.72.40.205, 98.194.227.30, 166.137.138.197, 63.197.243.249, 173.11.86.37, 66.28.191.234, 67.66.219.252, 68.48.235.114, 99.128.17.109, 99.57.146.152, 76.31.247.3, 38.100.8.50, 174.88.207.21, 75.207.160.35, 173.188.132.160, 75.27.164.202, 24.87.2.254, 63.164.47.227, 72.181.195.192, 71.101.131.70, 72.88.138.32, 199.198.251.106, 72.57.226.99, 76.126.69.127, 65.55.207.94, 162.93.249.2, 204.99.19.150, 66.249.68.242, 66.249.67.79, 75.239.58.169, 72.179.136.160, 67.195.114.233, 74.219.172.18, 66.158.6.197, 72.3.253.234, 68.33.251.222, 204.14.71.90, 74.192.21.160, 96.245.111.42, 173.12.30.65, 209.50.182.2, 24.230.39.110, 38.98.84.100, 64.61.119.98, 166.205.135.174, 167.181.12.116, 173.61.6.74, 24.188.32.167, 68.48.32.164, 38.105.83.13, 71.71.199.20, 83.38.54.232, 98.217.100.112, 169.231.100.167, 72.145.36.102, 129.115.38.21, 65.91.116.34, 205.144.73.92, 70.168.11.47, 76.94.215.142, 66.249.67.6, 71.158.103.58, 69.141.108.31, 66.69.193.227, 76.115.15.2, 24.147.184.82, 166.205.134.8, 67.92.203.10, 207.219.210.220, 63.119.236.253, 38.108.180.23, 67.195.115.61, 92.241.182.23, 12.239.220.130, 140.239.67.170, 72.144.247.243, 207.126.16.254, 207.38.192.18, 216.129.119.42, 65.213.98.200, 188.92.75.82, 204.248.24.162, 38.108.180.98, 24.150.31.254, 98.238.124.213, 66.235.124.59, 220.255.7.146, 91.8.247.118, 85.25.124.132, 216.41.119.130, 75.186.20.236, 87.106.232.224, 212.117.187.100, 67.246.119.69, 68.242.242.88, 138.162.0.42, 24.140.51.188, 66.249.67.21, 65.55.207.137, 65.184.103.207, 74.73.203.60, 68.83.187.202, 65.55.106.139, 69.181.208.234, 72.80.183.251, 214.13.82.22, 67.106.80.3, 63.215.202.234, 65.50.45.18, 98.217.38.58, 71.249.97.19, 98.206.38.221, 67.195.112.159, 207.229.178.63, 67.164.56.251, 210.17.177.22, 209.172.116.154, 67.175.5.157, 70.194.252.93, 74.78.207.108, 218.28.29.234, 71.110.94.27, 38.114.160.65, 72.25.23.159, 66.249.65.200, 207.38.19.71, 130.76.32.145, 166.216.128.12, 151.68.173.196, 83.167.62.163, 168.190.200.211, 166.137.132.161, 67.195.114.223, 98.163.232.110, 125.238.170.179, 71.238.254.92, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.30, 66.249.67.69, 207.157.127.254, 67.195.111.172, 66.235.124.54, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 77.88.50.40, 66.249.68.172, 128.135.194.176, 72.223.122.208, 66.30.119.212, 99.225.167.210, 99.232.1.174, 71.198.73.91, 206.210.117.130, 163.1.5.153, 206.230.48.34, 66.249.68.178, 169.200.185.19, 67.218.116.131, 67.205.210.223, 68.34.2.174, 142.166.3.122, 174.19.29.120, 66.249.68.152, 66.61.140.124, 206.130.174.42, 38.100.41.112, 205.215.209.66, 98.95.61.111, 66.249.68.233, 82.226.70.130, 212.227.136.205, 76.99.67.45, 76.169.68.114, 87.250.252.241, 65.55.109.15, 67.8.122.158, 86.89.62.232, 69.180.248.158, 74.9.249.22, 67.192.133.1, 24.60.244.230, 166.205.136.214, 98.216.187.48, 98.192.13.88, 65.175.185.221, 85.25.124.4, 66.65.41.242, 123.125.66.55, 68.171.234.172, 74.105.214.37, 123.125.66.100, 38.99.98.35, 85.25.124.167, 65.55.207.29, 70.54.113.8, 65.55.107.185, 75.108.189.163, 64.233.173.2, 66.249.68.219, 69.177.99.47, 208.115.111.246, 66.249.68.166, 165.201.164.130, 65.55.106.135, 66.249.68.143, 66.60.247.180, 68.171.234.145, 140.180.191.197, 66.249.68.135, 98.85.38.175, 144.59.12.230, 24.117.12.69, 66.249.67.245, 65.2.14.118, 66.249.67.14, 99.172.148.62, 208.115.111.245, 38.101.148.126, 91.176.76.12, 38.100.41.105, 66.249.65.109, 66.249.65.80, 83.42.209.142, 207.241.228.152, 63.115.34.34, 38.115.185.13, 70.144.143.96, 72.181.193.146, 66.249.68.137, 114.108.240.68, 65.55.106.186, 66.235.124.8, 141.197.8.183, 65.55.106.211, 67.195.114.42, 123.125.66.75, 83.245.209.123, 216.158.1.201, 38.99.98.159, 67.195.111.34, 65.23.255.89, 70.18.183.153, 206.202.72.27, 76.79.3.222, 65.55.106.227, 74.190.192.191, 76.27.41.162, 66.249.68.149, 66.249.68.204, 66.249.65.114, 113.128.8.129, 64.54.38.118, 74.138.233.103, 166.137.8.247, 76.19.226.115, 65.55.106.161, 67.195.111.167, 65.55.207.126, 24.91.245.5, 67.195.37.188, 123.125.66.120, 76.183.237.98, 66.249.68.155, 67.195.112.28, 38.105.83.11, 99.235.200.14, 66.249.68.184, 65.55.106.183, 66.249.68.187, 99.171.113.222, 165.125.144.16, 66.249.67.120, 66.173.152.34, 75.77.55.106, 71.106.95.254, 24.231.58.155, 174.129.82.216, 70.44.44.44, 97.65.87.2, 78.153.46.103, 66.249.68.175, 74.79.5.179, 66.249.68.251, 67.195.114.230, 67.195.115.214, 66.249.68.236, 38.98.183.218, 153.29.60.60, 66.249.67.58, 203.171.197.240, 207.46.204.193, 67.195.115.44, 66.249.68.81, 216.25.247.244, 65.55.104.20, 66.93.117.2, 71.205.123.140, 38.98.19.68, 207.46.12.170, 24.136.112.50, 98.108.212.14, 24.151.74.125, 67.195.113.247, 159.53.78.140, 68.109.205.210, 123.125.66.60, 69.116.145.79, 114.74.104.66, 68.40.172.2, 110.23.162.206, 110.22.112.139, 67.195.113.227, 75.76.221.3, 76.103.145.135, 165.124.140.203, 199.46.198.230, 137.54.3.175, 174.106.197.116, 124.106.244.7, 207.46.204.243, 217.149.202.49, 114.74.68.234, 169.200.80.17, 98.110.98.47, 76.117.13.45, 68.107.82.218, 76.26.42.79, 98.193.60.234, 216.161.120.154, 71.106.178.92, 214.27.58.1, 98.18.92.18, 24.185.72.112, 156.77.108.72, 72.9.4.82, 132.28.253.226, 72.1.69.153, 66.249.65.36, 199.201.223.253
Antoine Walker, The Losing Of The Green
2
No
Boston Celtics, Walker, Casinos
67
Antoine Walker, The Losing Of The Green
793
writer
article
123
5
4
2009-07-10T06:46:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
535
3796
<p><em>Orlando and Cleveland made bigger splashes, but Rasheed Wallace signing with the Celtics flows perfectly with Boston's winning formula.</em></p>
<p> </p><p> </p>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">The Cleveland Cavaliers traded spare part players Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic for future Hall of Famer and four-time NBA Champion Shaquille O’Neal. Nice one.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Not to be out-done, reigning Eastern Conference Champions Orlando acquired prolific scorer Vince Carter and young forward Ryan Anderson for Rafer Alston, Courtney Lee, and Tony Battie.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">While those two trades have “wow” factor, it is Boston’s signing of Rasheed Wallace that makes the Celtics the most improved team since the conclusion of the NBA Finals.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Normally the arrival of a reserve doesn’t make the impact a new starter does. But adding Wallace to a healthy Celtics lineup will make significant a difference.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">That “most improved team” statement comes with an asterisk. I’ll explain later.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Strategically, what was the point of the trades? Cleveland’s addition of Shaq Diesel clearly is to put a stop to the Magic’s Dwight Howard. In the ECF, the Cavs couldn’t stop Howard one-on-one with Zydrunas Ilgauskas or anyone else. Howard is too fast and athletic for any of the Cavs’ big men.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">With that being the problem, is Shaq really the solution? At 37 years old, he isn’t as quick as he used to be. Shaq doesn’t have the foot speed to keep up with Howard.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Fortunately for Shaq, Howard lacks a midrange jumper. This means O’Neal can wait for Howard to come to him in the paint. That’s the area where Shaq can rely on veteran savvy to control Howard. O’Neal won’t completely shut down Howard, but he will slow down the young center enough to make a difference.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">The paint wasn’t the Cavaliers’ only defensive problem. They were killed by the Magic’s outside shooting. Shaq can’t help in that area. Cleveland wanted to sign Ron Artest (three years with the Los Angeles Lakers) or Trevor Ariza (signed with Houston), but the Cavs struck out on both. Acquiring a good perimeter defender would make a greater difference for the Cavs against the Magic than bringing in Shaq. Without one, the Cavaliers will come up short again.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Orlando is setting their sights higher after winning the East. They have the confidence to know they can reach the Finals. But they also know they have a long way to go to even challenge the champion Lakers. Unable to stop, slow down, irritate, or even slightly inconvenience Kobe Bryant, Orlando acquired Carter in hopes he could match Bryant point for point.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Orlando paid enough for Carter. Battie isn’t a major loss, but giving up Alston strips away the depth behind starting point guard Jameer Nelson. Behind the Magic’s floor general is Anthony Johnson, a capable player at the position, but not a difference-maker.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">When Nelson went down during the season with a shoulder injury, Orlando made a trade for Alston instead of elevating Johnson to starter. That’s not a vote of confidence.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Orlando was set back by free agency also. Carter can be considered the replacement for small forward Hedo Turkoglu (sign and trade to Toronto), but Vince can’t run the offense like Turkoglu did as a point-forward. Losing two ball handlers will hurt.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Boston tried to hold on to the title with the weakest bench among the top three in the conference. The first step towards fortifying the bench is signing Wallace.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">As the sixth man, Wallace will fill a major hole at back-up power forward/center. By game seven against Orlando, the Celtics were down to Kendrick Perkins, Glen Davis, Brian Scalabrine, and a worthless Mikki Moore as the bigs on the roster. Boston even lost Leon Powe during that series. But more importantly, the Celts were without Kevin Garnett for the playoffs.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">This is the asterisk that makes the Celtics the most improved team after the Finals. Garnett’s return will complete a starting lineup that really missed his leadership and defense. He is expected to be ready for the season opener.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">With ‘Sheed coming from the bench, Boston has a true big man with range on offense and a tough defender. Whether Wallace subs for Garnett or Kendrick Perkins, Boston won’t lose much when resting the starting front court.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">One bench big won’t be enough. Boston hopes to retain Davis since Powe won’t be back as he recovers from knee surgery. If the Celtics are able to keep “Big Baby,” the front court takes a big leap forward.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Next for the Celtics is finding back court depth. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce played too many minutes last year. And after Rajon Rondo, there isn’t a proven point guard that can run the offense when he takes a seat.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Free agency has just begun, so there’s plenty of time for these teams to fill important holes on the roster. But based on the early returns, Boston gained a leg up on the competition.</div>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Randolph Charlotin has a New England Patriots Blog at </em><a href="http://www.randolphc.com"><em>www.randolphc.com</em></a><em>. Send any questions or comments to </em><a href="mailto:talktome@randolphc.com"><em>talktome@randolphc.com</em></a><em>.</em></p>
0.0.0.0
2009-07-10T06:46:00-04:00
-sheed-in-green-puts-celtics-in-the-lead
No
Yes
66.249.68.248, 72.30.79.93, 174.46.170.180, 65.55.207.137, 174.133.177.66, 66.249.67.76, 66.249.67.41, 66.249.68.245, 76.119.24.239, 66.249.68.227, 66.249.67.72, 65.55.106.160, 76.193.180.25, 67.195.112.107, 66.235.124.8, 67.195.115.163, 38.100.8.50, 65.55.207.94, 67.195.114.233, 67.195.115.61, 67.195.112.109, 38.105.83.13, 66.249.68.242, 124.115.0.141, 38.108.180.23, 65.55.217.59, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 38.108.180.98, 85.25.124.132, 87.106.232.224, 65.55.106.157, 123.125.66.35, 76.179.156.236, 218.28.29.234, 209.249.53.34, 209.249.53.162, 76.112.250.97, 66.249.67.206, 83.167.62.163, 65.55.106.163, 67.195.114.223, 67.195.112.159, 71.238.254.92, 123.125.66.52, 38.108.180.28, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 163.1.5.153, 66.249.67.99, 67.218.116.131, 142.166.3.122, 38.100.41.112, 212.227.136.205, 67.195.111.172, 123.125.66.51, 87.250.252.241, 124.115.4.205, 75.139.110.168, 85.25.124.4, 66.249.68.233, 123.125.66.112, 74.6.17.158, 38.99.98.35, 83.167.62.168, 85.25.124.167, 142.166.170.104, 65.55.104.132, 208.115.111.246, 66.249.68.135, 38.101.148.126, 208.115.111.245, 66.249.68.143, 66.249.67.245, 38.100.41.105, 123.125.66.129, 38.99.98.159, 123.125.66.118, 66.249.67.21, 67.195.114.42, 69.247.126.33, 67.167.202.249, 67.195.111.34, 71.117.252.25, 71.162.98.74, 75.136.40.40, 113.128.8.129, 76.117.218.58, 67.195.37.188, 123.125.66.134, 65.55.106.234, 38.105.83.11, 70.88.165.190, 65.55.109.218, 123.125.66.96, 67.195.112.28, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.114.230, 67.195.115.44, 66.249.68.236, 66.249.68.81, 123.125.66.120, 207.46.204.227, 123.125.66.83, 67.195.113.247
'Sheed in Green Puts Celtics in the Lead
2
No
Boston Celtics, Rasheed Wallace, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers, Shaquille O'Neal, Vince Carter, Hedo Turkoglu, Kevin Garnett
67
'Sheed in Green Puts Celtics in the Lead
95
writer
article
123
5
1
2009-06-26T08:04:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
458
3626
<p> With their first pick in the draft last night, the Celtics picked Lester Hudson. I'm really shocked that there has not been more blog activity after this pick. Where are the Celts fans?</p><p> </p>
<p>Hudson played college ball for Tennessee. No, not the Volunteers. The Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks. In drafting a guard, it is clear the Celtics have a plan for replacing Rajon Rondo.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>OK, so maybe it is impossible to create a blog full of excitement over a late second round pick. Still the lack of activity of people writing on Playerpress for the Celtics is surprising. While the Celtics clearly decided to skip this year's draft, there have been many rumors lately about where they could trade Rondo. Rondo to the Suns. Rondo to the Pistons. GM Danny Ainge stated that they were not going to trade Rondo. Then he also said that Rondo is not a max contract type of player. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>And yet, with lots of talk about trading Rondo, no activity on Playerpress. This is the 16th post on the Celtics, meaning the C's have more championships (17) then there are posts here. The Celtics are looking up in the standings at the Trail Blazers with 17 posts. And then the L.A. Clippers with 20 posts.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wait a second... the Clippers? The Clippers have more posts than the Celtics? Wake up -Celtics fans! There are 20 different posts about the Clippers, and they were not even from the same fan! That means that more than one person thinks that there is important information about the Clippers that should be posted on the internet. And the Celtics, one year removed from Banner 17, have only 16 posts, just ahead of the Knicks.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>OK, I realize that there is not really a stat for number of posts on Playerpress. Still, it is time for Celtics fans to show their support. I am going to do my part and get a Hudson jersey. Or, if I can't find a Hudson jersey, I'll get a sale price on a Rondo jersey after he is traded.</p>
<p>Go Celtics</p>
0.0.0.0
2009-06-26T08:04:00-04:00
wake-up-celtics-fans
No
Yes
220.181.53.236, 72.30.87.97, 123.125.156.131, 61.140.243.193, 220.181.53.244, 66.249.68.248, 123.125.156.130, 195.2.216.186, 174.46.170.180, 123.125.156.138, 65.55.106.231, 203.147.4.68, 114.127.246.36, 72.30.78.232, 174.133.177.66, 190.226.47.202, 80.240.202.170, 116.123.117.130, 66.249.67.136, 91.121.91.61, 65.55.106.158, 118.175.22.69, 66.249.67.41, 67.195.115.163, 124.228.83.63, 67.195.113.245, 38.108.180.23, 38.100.8.50, 217.91.70.238, 202.115.80.195, 38.105.83.13, 209.239.114.251, 200.201.190.82, 65.55.106.131, 200.31.42.3, 67.195.112.109, 76.126.138.129, 65.55.106.204, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 38.108.180.98, 189.14.192.91, 85.25.124.132, 195.216.213.6, 219.141.127.239, 202.180.34.186, 66.249.68.242, 87.106.232.224, 212.12.160.52, 123.138.18.114, 120.28.64.94, 66.249.68.227, 222.116.210.143, 218.28.29.234, 66.249.68.193, 63.240.26.232, 83.167.62.163, 67.195.112.159, 71.238.254.92, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.110, 221.238.17.245, 66.249.68.230, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 163.1.5.150, 83.167.62.168, 66.249.67.99, 66.249.67.149, 67.218.116.131, 142.166.3.122, 67.195.111.172, 38.100.41.112, 212.227.136.205, 87.250.252.241, 67.195.114.223, 123.125.66.39, 38.99.98.35, 207.46.199.201, 208.115.111.246, 207.46.199.185, 207.46.199.193, 207.46.199.195, 207.46.199.182, 38.100.41.105, 207.241.228.152, 208.115.111.245, 207.46.199.177, 65.55.109.12, 66.249.68.137, 123.125.66.75, 38.99.98.159, 38.101.148.126, 66.249.68.245, 65.55.207.24, 67.195.114.42, 66.249.67.21, 65.55.207.98, 96.241.159.161, 71.246.123.192, 113.128.8.129, 216.170.137.127, 67.195.112.114, 67.195.37.188, 65.55.207.28, 174.59.99.127, 123.125.66.131, 65.55.106.107, 38.105.83.11, 129.234.193.111, 88.131.106.31, 67.195.112.28, 67.195.112.88, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.115.44, 207.46.195.240, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.113.247, 207.46.199.52, 67.195.113.227, 123.125.66.120
Wake Up - Celtics Fans!
2
No
Celtics, draft, trade Rondo
67
Wake Up - Celtics Fans!
793
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-06-01T15:37:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
213
3274
<p> </p>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">I hear it in my head like the script from a Shaolin Monks kung-fu flick:</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">“You have defeated me. The pupil has finally surpassed his teacher,” says the green-clad sensei with long white hair and beard. “It is your destiny to slay the leader of the Purple Serpent Clan and his followers. Protect our legacy and do not leave any survivors.”</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">This is the message from the Boston Celtics to the Orlando Magic as the 2009 Eastern Conference Champions prepare to take on the Los Angles Lakers for the NBA Championship.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Boston is concerned about their shrinking lead in NBA Championships. The Celtics had been sitting at 16 since 1986. Between the 16th and last year’s title number 17, the Lakers won five championships and L.A. is now just three behind Boston. The Celtics do not want their lead to shrink any further.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">But at greater risk is the unofficial title of greatest coach of all time. Celtics Legend Red Auerbach coached Boston to nine championships between 1956 and 1966. Current Lakers coach Phil Jackson has an equal number of titles under his belt between his six with the Chicago Bulls and three with LA.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">The thought of Red being second to anyone offends Celtic Nation. But for Auerbach to be passed by a coach of the rival Lakers induces violent sickness.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Boston looked up to the task of stopping the Black Mamba (the self-monikered Kobe Bryant) and his Clan for a second consecutive time, but injuries to spiritual leader Kevin Garnett and the hard-working Leon Powe crippled the team.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">The Celts fought on, without making excuses. Forever stubborn, the team dug deep into their Celtic Pride and gutted out a seven-game series win over the Running Bulls Clan.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">But Orlando proved to be too much for Boston. The Magic perfected their arts in games 6 and 7, and the injured Celtics finally fell.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">In defeat, Boston left a two-word challenge to whoever emerged from the East: Beat L.A.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">That team was the Magic, as the Cavaliers lacked the combat skills only their leader had.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Cleveland didn’t remember: <i>Only when all contribute their firewood can they build up a strong fire.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Boston hopes Orlando learned from their seven-game battle and effectively use all weapons in combat against the Purple Serpent Clan. A heavy dose of hand-to-hand combat from the powerful Dwight Howard can wear down the deep Lakers. Efficient use of daggers by eagle-eyed Rashard Lewis, Hedo Turkoglu and others can keep L.A. at bay while still being aggressive. And a combined effort to keep the Black Mamba cornered can limit his damage.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><i>To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">The biggest lesson the Celtics hope the Magic learned is mental toughness. Orlando lacked it the past two years when their previous trips to the playoffs came to an end quickly – a first round exit in 2007 and a 4-1 second round drubbing in 2008. The experiences put the bitter taste of defeat in Orlando’s mouth. So when they smelled defeat this time, the Magic showed the guile needed to win in a dire situation as well as how to put away a staggered foe.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><i>The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without trials.</i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">Orlando feels steeled for the final battle, but nothing can prepare the Magic for the intensity of the NBA Finals. Orlando enters the series confident because they swept the season series 2-0. If the regular season is a precursor like the last two series (3-1 against Cleveland before a 4-2 win; 2-2 against Boston before edging the Celtics in a come from behind 4-3 victory), then the Orlando Magic will defeat the Purple Serpent Clan, win the title, and protect Boston’s legacy.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt">In the meantime, the Celtics will heal. They have every intention to add to their legacy next year.</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><i>A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.</i></div>
0.0.0.0
2009-06-01T15:37:00-04:00
protecting-the-celtics-legacy
No
Yes
65.55.207.119, 65.55.207.75, 174.46.170.181, 66.249.68.248, 66.249.67.41, 67.195.115.163, 67.16.94.2, 66.249.68.245, 65.55.207.25, 66.249.68.227, 38.108.180.23, 38.100.8.50, 38.108.180.113, 72.30.142.161, 67.195.115.61, 66.249.68.242, 38.105.83.13, 67.195.112.109, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 65.55.207.45, 38.108.180.98, 85.25.124.132, 202.180.34.186, 87.106.232.224, 67.195.37.172, 66.249.67.21, 218.28.29.234, 217.14.6.72, 66.249.65.200, 67.195.112.159, 67.218.116.131, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.112, 67.195.114.223, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 77.88.50.40, 83.167.62.168, 66.249.68.172, 65.55.109.29, 66.96.219.183, 66.249.68.178, 142.166.170.104, 142.166.3.122, 38.100.41.112, 66.249.68.233, 87.250.252.241, 66.249.68.150, 174.133.177.66, 67.195.111.172, 38.99.98.35, 76.113.188.175, 66.249.67.131, 76.116.34.40, 66.249.68.166, 208.115.111.246, 66.249.68.143, 208.115.111.245, 66.249.65.109, 66.249.68.137, 67.195.114.243, 67.195.111.34, 38.99.98.159, 66.249.67.108, 67.195.114.42, 67.195.37.188, 67.195.112.82, 67.195.112.28, 67.195.115.214, 66.249.67.214, 95.24.251.28, 66.249.68.40
Protecting the Celtics Legacy
2
No
Boston Celtics, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Hedo Turkoglu, Rashard Lewis
67
Protecting the Celtics Legacy
95
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-05-11T17:36:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
164
3033
<p>As if the playoffs could get anymore exciting with the Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers destroying their opponents. While the Los Angeles Lakers struggle against the Houston Rockets. But the highlight of the week goes to Glen "Big Baby" Davis, who scored the winning shot for the Boston Celtics on Mother's Day. In Orlando, the Celtics went back and forth with Dwight Howard and the Magic. Both teams fought hard to get a victory.</p>
<p>Extreme foul trouble on both ends of the court. Paul Pierce the Celtics' leading scorer with 27 points and 4 fouls got the ball to Big Baby with seconds left in the game. Big Baby with 21 points elated with his work had the whole Boston bench jumping with joy. Rajon Rondo with 21 points and 14 rebounds really keeps the defending champs' tempo hopeful. Kendrick Perkins added 12 points and left Orlando with a hurt shoulder.</p>
<p>With the series tied they head back to Boston for game 5 tomorrow night. The Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic by 1 point with a final score of 95-94. This series is really going to get fired up with both teams playing with vengeful determination.</p>
<p>Dwight Howard led the Magic with 23 points followed by Rashard Lewis with 22. The Magic's bench performed extremely well with a total of 31 points. So game 5 will be very entertaining. Good luck Cs!</p>
0.0.0.0
2009-05-11T17:36:00-04:00
nba-where-amazing-happens
No
Yes
66.249.68.248, 65.55.106.234, 174.46.170.181, 66.249.67.41, 82.231.61.186, 83.167.62.168, 200.126.226.16, 67.195.112.107, 67.16.94.2, 66.249.67.133, 67.195.115.163, 67.195.113.245, 38.108.180.23, 38.100.8.50, 67.195.115.61, 67.195.112.109, 66.249.68.242, 38.105.83.13, 67.195.111.227, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 85.25.124.132, 65.55.106.180, 87.106.232.224, 66.249.68.227, 67.195.112.159, 218.28.29.234, 217.14.6.72, 67.195.114.223, 202.180.34.186, 67.218.116.131, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.113, 66.249.67.21, 174.142.82.13, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 163.1.5.153, 67.195.111.172, 87.250.252.241, 174.133.177.66, 66.249.67.131, 65.55.106.211, 38.99.98.35, 66.249.67.82, 66.249.67.229, 65.55.109.93, 66.249.68.143, 208.115.111.245, 66.249.67.72, 67.195.114.42, 38.99.98.159, 65.55.106.155, 67.195.37.188, 67.195.111.167, 67.195.112.114, 65.55.106.157, 208.115.111.246, 66.249.68.114, 67.195.112.88, 66.249.67.225, 66.249.67.137, 66.249.68.81, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.112.167, 66.249.67.209
NBA: Where Amazing Happens!
2
No
67
NBA: Where Amazing Happens!
124
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-05-08T03:07:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
154
2982
<p>The Boston Celtics took it to the house, Eddie House that is! The defending champs came out to play hard at home Wednesday night in game two against the Orlando Magic. Not a magical night for Orlando which included foul trouble for J.J. Redick, confrontational Rafer Alston, and not enough super powers for Superman.</p>
<p>The Celtics domineered there floor by making easy shots and getting everyone involved. Rajon Rondo with another triple double played with exciting energy and minimized his turnovers to victory. Boston really had something to prove this game and they definitely showed up with a W by 18 points.</p>
<p>This game really demonstrated why I think they can win another championship with or without Kevin Garnett. When the togetherness is present anything is possible. So conceivable that they didn't even need team captain, Paul Pierce who played less than 20 minutes. Last year's finals MVP needed a little rest with all the pressure of wanting to win win win! He should be ready to fire away Friday evening in game 3.</p>
<p>Ray Allen had 22 points and got his tempo back that was nonexistent in game 1. Kendrick Perkins with 16 points and one rebound shy of a double double. Game 3 in Orlando should be an exciting to sight to see. We know that Coach Van Gundy will be seeking revenge. I'm keeping my faith that the Celtics will take over this series. Not denying that Orlando will not put up a good fight. But I want Boston to take them out. With the series being tied Friday's game will have fans full of oooohs and ahhhhs!</p>
<p>Good luck Cs! It was reported yesterday that Leon Powe had a successful surgery but a return date is yet to be determined. Happy healing Leon!</p>
0.0.0.0
2009-05-07T03:07:00-04:00
take-it-to-the-house
No
Yes
174.46.170.179, 65.55.106.109, 72.30.78.232, 66.249.67.41, 91.121.96.210, 67.16.94.2, 66.249.67.133, 67.195.115.163, 65.55.207.120, 38.108.180.23, 38.100.8.50, 67.195.112.109, 38.105.83.13, 67.195.114.233, 67.195.115.61, 67.195.111.227, 92.241.182.23, 216.129.119.42, 66.249.68.242, 202.180.34.186, 87.106.232.224, 67.195.37.172, 218.28.29.234, 217.14.6.72, 66.249.65.200, 66.249.67.21, 38.108.180.28, 67.218.116.131, 174.142.82.13, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 65.55.207.119, 163.1.5.150, 65.55.110.65, 163.1.5.153, 67.195.114.223, 67.195.112.159, 67.195.111.172, 87.250.252.241, 174.133.177.66, 38.99.98.35, 66.249.67.229, 66.249.67.123, 208.115.111.245, 65.55.106.180, 66.249.68.137, 67.195.111.34, 38.99.98.159, 67.195.114.42, 65.55.106.161, 67.195.37.188, 66.249.68.155, 65.55.207.52, 65.55.109.149, 67.195.112.114, 208.115.111.246, 66.249.68.248, 66.249.68.81, 66.249.67.43, 85.25.124.132, 66.249.67.75, 207.46.204.237, 67.195.115.214, 66.249.68.236
Take It To The House
2
No
67
Take It To The House
124
writer
article
123
5
0
2009-05-06T19:22:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
148
2941
<p>The defending champs, still holding hold on strong. They have the potential to win it all again even without Kevin Garnett. Although he is an excellent asset to the core hopefully his skills can rub off on his many replacements. When Mikki Moore decides to step up his game and become more aggressive he can take Dwight Howard. Don't be scared Mikki! You're too tall not to be hustling and you're not playing for the Clippers anymore so get it together.</p>
<p>Down by 28 the Celtics lost by 5 in Monday's night game in the first game of round 2. After winning by 10 last Saturday versus Chicago. Boston scored significantly well in the paint that night. 40 points to be exact. Something I have been a real advocate for during the regular season and has carried over to the playoffs. That same momentum did not come to the Celtics Monday night until late in the second half. Paul Pierce the leading scorer with 23 points tried to bring them back but came up just a little short.</p>
<p>Some fans think Orlando is about to dominate this series because of the wins without KG. But I totally disagree. To me Orlando does not have enough defense to hold the champs. Monday could have been a blow out but they waited too long to find their chemistry. And that's why in game 2 they will go HARD! I'm sure Doc Rivers will have something up his sleeve for Superman and company.</p>
<p>They blew a 28 point lead and the Celtics came back within 5. I'm pretty sure if someone would have shot a nice 3 when there was 6.4 seconds left this would have been an overtime game. But its the first game so I'll let Magic have it but the Celtics will be ready to attack tonight in game 2. Good luck guys and blow these guys away. KG and Leon Powe happy healing! Paul remain the good leader that you are, don't get discourage and continue to motivate the team so you can maintain your chemistry.</p>
0.0.0.0
2009-05-06T19:22:00-04:00
here-we-go-celtics-here-we-go
No
Yes
72.30.142.117, 174.46.170.181, 66.249.67.41, 82.231.61.186, 65.55.106.136, 155.97.232.16, 66.249.68.248, 174.129.114.74, 67.16.94.2, 66.249.67.133, 67.195.115.163, 66.249.68.227, 38.108.180.23, 38.100.8.50, 67.195.115.61, 66.249.68.242, 67.195.112.109, 67.195.111.227, 87.106.232.224, 65.55.207.29, 67.195.112.159, 218.28.29.234, 217.14.6.72, 202.180.34.186, 66.249.65.200, 66.249.67.21, 38.108.180.28, 174.142.82.13, 67.218.116.131, 66.150.224.245, 67.195.114.223, 87.250.252.241, 174.133.177.66, 65.55.106.163, 38.99.98.28, 38.99.98.35, 67.195.111.172, 66.249.67.229, 66.249.68.143, 66.249.67.123, 92.241.182.23, 208.115.111.245, 38.99.98.159, 67.195.114.42, 194.80.32.10, 194.80.32.11, 65.55.106.137, 67.195.111.34, 67.195.37.188, 130.209.239.6, 66.249.67.206, 208.115.111.246, 66.249.68.187, 66.249.68.81, 85.25.124.132, 67.195.115.214, 207.46.199.46, 67.195.113.227, 66.249.67.66
Here We Go Celtics Here We Go!!
2
No
67
Here We Go Celtics Here We Go!!
124
writer
article
123
-1
1
2009-04-30T23:34:00-04:00
Playerpress
No
215
2887
<p> <span style="font-size: 14pt">As a kid, I always thought Eastern Conference basketball in the NBA wasn’t as fun as the Western Conference. The Western Conference brought us Magic and the Lake Show back in the 80’s, while the Eastern Conference brought us Larry Bird and the hard nose Celtics.</span></p>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">Those were some good series and some good times back in the day. Even today the Western Conference still plays a finesse type of basketball with lots of action. You still have the Lakers now with Kobe, but you also have the Phoenix Suns with Steve Nash who have a run and gun type offense along with the Denver Nuggets with Chauncey Phillips and the New Orleans Hornets with Chris Paul. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">But with all that being said, the best games are being played in the Eastern Conference this year especially between the Boston Celtics and the Chicago Bulls. Who would have thought this series would bring us that much action? These teams are playing their freaking hearts out everytime they play. With the exception of the one blow out, every single game of this series has been close with lots of drama.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">I honestly thought the Celtics had a chance to be done in by the Bulls early on with Kevin Garnett missing, but they have stepped up their game big time like good teams do. What can you say about Ray Allen? 51 points Thursday night are you kidding me? No one scores that many points in a playoff game any more unless your last name is Jordon.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">But the Bulls aren’t going down without a fight. Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose proves why he will be a super star in this league. When his team needed him to step up and make a stop, he did. Rose saved the game when he blocked a shot from Rajon Rondo of the Celtics in the third overtime which could have potentially sent the Bulls home.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">This has been like a heavy weight fight between two evenly matched opponents. Cliché I know, but it is the truth. The Celtics threw a knockout punch and you think it’s over for the Bulls, but they get back up and throw a few left and right hooks themselves.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">I honestly thought all the great games would be played within the Western Conference because it’s was back and forth over there most of the year; teams fighting for positions and most of the playoff spots not being decided basically until the last week in the regular season.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: 14pt">Who knew that the Eastern Conference could put on a better show? This series has reminded me why I fall in love with the NBA in the first place and I for one am glad for the reminder and like everyone else, I can’t wait to watch Game Seven.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"> </div>
0.0.0.0
2009-04-30T23:34:00-04:00
celtics-vs-bulls-man-i-love-this-game
No
Yes
174.46.170.181, 72.30.78.232, 65.55.106.131, 67.16.94.2, 66.249.67.41, 67.202.60.234, 67.195.115.163, 66.249.68.123, 38.108.180.113, 38.108.180.23, 65.55.110.154, 66.249.68.227, 67.195.112.107, 38.100.8.50, 38.105.83.13, 66.249.67.174, 65.55.207.131, 92.241.182.23, 67.195.112.109, 216.129.119.42, 38.108.180.98, 202.180.34.186, 87.106.232.224, 67.195.37.172, 94.23.238.27, 67.195.114.223, 218.28.29.234, 67.195.112.159, 65.55.207.94, 38.108.180.28, 123.125.66.113, 38.99.98.28, 66.150.224.245, 66.249.67.99, 67.218.116.131, 66.249.68.152, 38.100.41.112, 67.195.111.172, 65.55.106.182, 87.250.252.241, 174.133.177.66, 123.125.66.52, 123.125.66.24, 38.99.98.35, 66.249.68.135, 65.98.224.5, 66.249.67.245, 208.115.111.245, 38.100.41.105, 207.241.228.152, 67.195.114.243, 66.249.67.72, 208.115.111.246, 67.195.111.34, 123.125.66.67, 38.99.98.159, 65.55.216.55, 38.101.148.126, 67.195.114.42, 66.249.68.245, 209.162.6.234, 113.128.8.129, 67.195.37.188, 98.206.177.167, 123.125.66.93, 66.249.67.146, 67.195.112.28, 38.105.83.11, 67.195.112.88, 65.55.106.206, 67.195.115.214, 67.195.115.44, 66.249.68.81, 66.249.67.79, 66.249.68.236, 66.249.68.184, 67.195.114.230, 65.55.232.28, 207.46.12.69, 66.249.67.120, 123.125.66.131, 67.195.113.227, 67.195.113.247
Celtics vs Bulls: Man I love this game!
2
No
67
Celtics vs Bulls: Man I love this game!
487
writer