Let me apologize to the readers for my absence its been crazy lately anyway ive been very pleased with my Lakers and in this first paragraph I would like to gloat. As you recall in a previous article I predicted that the Suns would no benefit from the Shaq trade. While most would argue that they did better than expected, I would argue that losing in 5 games in the opening rounds is failure. Honestly I don’t know whats more humiliating, getting burned on your home court, or giving up a 3 to Tim Duncan. I personally think it’s the latter. I also put that the Hornets inexperience would be there downfall and I almost ate crow until the wheels fell off in the third quarter in game 7(At home I might add).
Okey, now to the good stuff. Ive never been the type of fan to complain about referees. I figure theyre human and are prone to make mistakes. However last night the referees were leaning so far toward the Celtics they might as well just put on Celtic green themselves and joined the fans in the crowd. The free throw discrepency(38-10 C’s) should say enough but theres more. Leon Powe shot more free throws than the entire Laker squad and that’s unacceptable. Now don’t confuse that as an excuse for the horrendous defense the lakers played or the fact that the role players disappeared from view. I mean they were so soft inside I sort of wished we had Kwame Brown back(I don’t really mean that it was a moment of anger).
Now ive never really believed that David Stern was fixing games, but im starting to get skeptical. Now hear me out on this. Lets say the Lakers win all 3 at home and go back to Boston up 3-2. Now Boston wins Game 6 and forces Game 7, how much does the NBA stand to earn from a Lakers/Celtics Game 7 on national television(answer anybody c’mon it’s a daily double ).
My point is that everyone wants to be seen in this year’s finals and the refs were noticed last night. Im trusting Phil Jackson to make adjustments. Kobe has to penetrate and dish because that’s how the rest of the team is effective.Also less fadeways would be nice, lets go into the defender not away from them.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Very Funny...Not!
The Hustle by Danny Russell
Let's get one thing straight - I love the NBA. I mean truly love the game. I watch as many games in hi-def as my life allows and I have the astronomical DirecTV bill to prove it. I've witnessed 95% of all LeBron's games as a Cav and I can count the number of Laker games I've missed on one hand since moving to L.A. in 1990. I surf the tube nightly for the best games and always find at least one game in each time zone worth watching.
The Association has the world's best players competing at the highest level in the universe but the networks (ABC, ESPN, TNT) are slowly trying to kill the game because as the NBA playoffs heat up, the broadcasts cool off and the coverage gets worse and worse. And their over commercialism has been going on for years. Especially after Rupert's FOX came into existence and the Mickey Mouse led Mouseketeers bought ESPN.
Don't get me wrong, there's still some great broadcasters, announcers, color commentators, and personalities out there like Hubie Brown, Dick Stockton, Doris Burke, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, Steven A. Smith, Charley Barkley, Bill Walton, Mike Tirico, and tons of others but more and more each season the lazy, money-grubbing, corporate networks seem to be trying to ruin the game.
The proof is in the pudding.
Try and make sense of the discombobulated out-of-sequence replays or ignore the endless mind numbing promos for their mostly unwatchable and ridiculous programs. Or just try understanding their dizzying distracting graphics, which usually have nothing to do with the action on the floor, and hardly ever make any sense.
Secretly, I think the big wig network execs hate and resent the league (just like the corporate newsies hate Obama) because the fact is sports (and now politics) are dominated by African American men and almost always beat out their pitiful mostly white counter programming in the ratings (or elections).
They can't resist the profitability of the NBA and sorry Hillary, McBush, and all you corporate newsies - ya'll nothin' but straight playa hate'n. Period.
During the regular season and early rounds of the playoffs, local broadcasters are contractually still allowed to show road games to regional audiences and their coverage of the games are actually telecast as real sporting events. The games aren't just an entertaining marketing ploy to get more eyeballs and exposure for more lame ass crappy network programing.
TNT is the least guilty network but lately they've fallen into the transparent practice of making broadcasters such as the talented, cool, entertaining, and former NBA great Reggie Miller to say, "very funny," after in-game spots for TNT's line-up of buffoonerish sitcoms masked as passable comedies. Gimme a break. Have you seen any of these shows Reggie? Please.
As Charles Barkley says, they're "turrr-ble."
By far the worst culprit is ABC, which by the way stands for Anything But Color. What ever happened to all the black characters on Lost? Why have they all disappeared off the island or suddenly died? And where's George Lopez? Hmmm. I wonder... But I digress.
Empty talking heads, like the daffiest of them all Mike Breen, act as if the game is an interruption. ABC places two-bit actors in the audience so they can be shown sitting courtside then Jeff 'Beetlejuice' Van Gundy works them into the 'conversation.' Man, I'm so sick of network company men and their greedy resentful sponsors pimping out the game that I love so dearly. I swear, I'd pay very good money just NOT to hear them blabber on about another season finale of Dancing with the Stars or the premieres of The Mole and The Bachlorette. Who watches this crap?
Another big beef about NBA coverage on ABC is their mistimed replays and overuse of strange camera angles, including the Floorcam and Skycam angles used throughout its coverage. If I wanted to see the game at some crazy angle from nosebleed seats I'd go to the game and sit in the rafters.
The networks are also more concerned about getting reaction shots of celebrities like Eva Longoria, Jack Nickolson, and David Beckham than showing the games. I can sort of understand Jack, he's a Laker lifer. And Eva, married to Tony Parker, is pretty hot. But Becks? Come on already. He can't even get the L.A. Galaxy to win two soccer matches in a row. He should be out practicing or at least home boffing Posh Spice. Although I wouldn't mind seeing her up close on the Poshcam... Zing!
Oh no... I might get to see an actual replay of a critical play in sequence. I might be able to tell if the ref's call was legit or not. Maybe they are covering for corrupt refs but we'll never know. They won't show us the evidence. If they would cover the game more closely and show us then there's no doubt. Maybe that's what their afraid of. Maybe we'd get to see really why Rasheed's always so pissed off. But that doesn't matter 'cause - its time for more promos and graphics.
Here's a solution. Can you say pay-per-view? I'd do it in a heartbeat. My short time here on Earth is worth it.
The Lakers broadcast team of Joel Meyers and Stu Lantz are the epitome of professional broadcasting. They can have an in-game conversation with celebrities all the time and hardly ever miss a beat. Their pertinent replays are in sequence and they work in their sponsors with taste and class. There's no crazy camera angles and wide shots during the game action. The graphics are relevant and seamless with a touch of high tech coolness.
It's a damn shame basketball purists have to be subjected to the numerous clueless networks' version of the last two rounds of the playoffs. I wish we had a choice of whom we could watch cover the games and let the ratings determine a winner like the God awful American Idol does, where people's vote might really count.
Sorry Barack.
Thanks for reading the Hustle and remember... Give peace a chance.
Let's get one thing straight - I love the NBA. I mean truly love the game. I watch as many games in hi-def as my life allows and I have the astronomical DirecTV bill to prove it. I've witnessed 95% of all LeBron's games as a Cav and I can count the number of Laker games I've missed on one hand since moving to L.A. in 1990. I surf the tube nightly for the best games and always find at least one game in each time zone worth watching.
The Association has the world's best players competing at the highest level in the universe but the networks (ABC, ESPN, TNT) are slowly trying to kill the game because as the NBA playoffs heat up, the broadcasts cool off and the coverage gets worse and worse. And their over commercialism has been going on for years. Especially after Rupert's FOX came into existence and the Mickey Mouse led Mouseketeers bought ESPN.
Don't get me wrong, there's still some great broadcasters, announcers, color commentators, and personalities out there like Hubie Brown, Dick Stockton, Doris Burke, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, Steven A. Smith, Charley Barkley, Bill Walton, Mike Tirico, and tons of others but more and more each season the lazy, money-grubbing, corporate networks seem to be trying to ruin the game.
The proof is in the pudding.
Try and make sense of the discombobulated out-of-sequence replays or ignore the endless mind numbing promos for their mostly unwatchable and ridiculous programs. Or just try understanding their dizzying distracting graphics, which usually have nothing to do with the action on the floor, and hardly ever make any sense.
Secretly, I think the big wig network execs hate and resent the league (just like the corporate newsies hate Obama) because the fact is sports (and now politics) are dominated by African American men and almost always beat out their pitiful mostly white counter programming in the ratings (or elections).
They can't resist the profitability of the NBA and sorry Hillary, McBush, and all you corporate newsies - ya'll nothin' but straight playa hate'n. Period.
During the regular season and early rounds of the playoffs, local broadcasters are contractually still allowed to show road games to regional audiences and their coverage of the games are actually telecast as real sporting events. The games aren't just an entertaining marketing ploy to get more eyeballs and exposure for more lame ass crappy network programing.
TNT is the least guilty network but lately they've fallen into the transparent practice of making broadcasters such as the talented, cool, entertaining, and former NBA great Reggie Miller to say, "very funny," after in-game spots for TNT's line-up of buffoonerish sitcoms masked as passable comedies. Gimme a break. Have you seen any of these shows Reggie? Please.
As Charles Barkley says, they're "turrr-ble."
By far the worst culprit is ABC, which by the way stands for Anything But Color. What ever happened to all the black characters on Lost? Why have they all disappeared off the island or suddenly died? And where's George Lopez? Hmmm. I wonder... But I digress.
Empty talking heads, like the daffiest of them all Mike Breen, act as if the game is an interruption. ABC places two-bit actors in the audience so they can be shown sitting courtside then Jeff 'Beetlejuice' Van Gundy works them into the 'conversation.' Man, I'm so sick of network company men and their greedy resentful sponsors pimping out the game that I love so dearly. I swear, I'd pay very good money just NOT to hear them blabber on about another season finale of Dancing with the Stars or the premieres of The Mole and The Bachlorette. Who watches this crap?
Another big beef about NBA coverage on ABC is their mistimed replays and overuse of strange camera angles, including the Floorcam and Skycam angles used throughout its coverage. If I wanted to see the game at some crazy angle from nosebleed seats I'd go to the game and sit in the rafters.
The networks are also more concerned about getting reaction shots of celebrities like Eva Longoria, Jack Nickolson, and David Beckham than showing the games. I can sort of understand Jack, he's a Laker lifer. And Eva, married to Tony Parker, is pretty hot. But Becks? Come on already. He can't even get the L.A. Galaxy to win two soccer matches in a row. He should be out practicing or at least home boffing Posh Spice. Although I wouldn't mind seeing her up close on the Poshcam... Zing!
Oh no... I might get to see an actual replay of a critical play in sequence. I might be able to tell if the ref's call was legit or not. Maybe they are covering for corrupt refs but we'll never know. They won't show us the evidence. If they would cover the game more closely and show us then there's no doubt. Maybe that's what their afraid of. Maybe we'd get to see really why Rasheed's always so pissed off. But that doesn't matter 'cause - its time for more promos and graphics.
Here's a solution. Can you say pay-per-view? I'd do it in a heartbeat. My short time here on Earth is worth it.
The Lakers broadcast team of Joel Meyers and Stu Lantz are the epitome of professional broadcasting. They can have an in-game conversation with celebrities all the time and hardly ever miss a beat. Their pertinent replays are in sequence and they work in their sponsors with taste and class. There's no crazy camera angles and wide shots during the game action. The graphics are relevant and seamless with a touch of high tech coolness.
It's a damn shame basketball purists have to be subjected to the numerous clueless networks' version of the last two rounds of the playoffs. I wish we had a choice of whom we could watch cover the games and let the ratings determine a winner like the God awful American Idol does, where people's vote might really count.
Sorry Barack.
Thanks for reading the Hustle and remember... Give peace a chance.
NBA Playoff Foreplay
Can you really take a professional sport seriously when over half the teams in the league make the post season? I love the NBA, but the playoffs drag on like a Viagra induced four hour erection.
Charles Barkley might be my favorite person on TV. He reminds me of the outcast uncle who shows up for Thanksgiving smelling of booze and cheap hookers, and then asks you if he can borrow twenty bucks.
Watching the Eastern Conference playoffs is like watching the WNBA.
On second thought, I take that back and send my sincere apologies to the WNBA. I’d pick the Los Angeles Sparks over the Boston Celtics in 6 games. Lisa Leslie and Candace Parker could take K.G. and Paul Pierce any day.
If you like the San Antonio Spur’s methodical, slow paced style of play then you probably also like watching paint dry, waiting for water to boil, fantasy bass fishing, and dry humping with snow pants on.
Speaking of fantasy bass fishing, if you don’t have Billy McCaghren on your team it’s gonna be a long season for you, my friend.
If you’re anything like me you’re name is Matt Toomey and your wife loves it when the last 48 seconds of an NBA playoff game takes 17 minutes.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Jabril Hodges Held Onto His Dreams Now They’re Close To Reality
Though Jabril Hodges strives to carve his own pattern as a man and player away from his father’s (former two time NBA champion Craig Hodges) it’s obvious that some of his fathers skills and morals rubbed off on him. He strives for perfection by never giving up. He thrives on doubters, who said he couldn’t shoot, by breaking the career record for 3’s at Long Beach State University without a credible low-post threat to demand double-teams and free him up. His Nike Summer Pro League Career averages rank up there with the averages of superstar alums Kobe Bryant and Amare Stoudemire. He just recently finished his first season with the CBA’s Butte Daredevils averaging 14.7 pts off the bench. He’s preparing himself to try to earn a spot on an NBA roster this July after last years narrow miss. Some scouts may highlight his assists average(2.9) as cause for concern as well as no real big time competition while at LBSU, but Jabril is a gym rat whose constantly looking for ways to improve his game. He will get his shot this year because he has experience under his belt and his mental toughness is insurmountable. He has adapted and thrived in an environment where most players give up and move on. His stats don’t reflect his will to win and his hustle. He works out 3 times a day and has managed to bulk up about 5-10 pounds. He would thrive off the bench as a change of pace guard. He’s built in the Jordan Farmar mold of quick and push the pace guard off the bench. His midrange game is very consistent and his character can’t be questioned. He’s very humble and willing to learn and definitely has plenty of pride and doesn’t accept handouts. He doesn’t want tryouts given to him as favors to his father and waited his life for this very moment. The ball is in his court and if his jumper is any indication he won’t miss his shot this summer.
Stay tuned later this week when Jabril gives thewestbias.com his first interview since the seasons end and discusses future plans and goals.
Stay tuned later this week when Jabril gives thewestbias.com his first interview since the seasons end and discusses future plans and goals.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
The Run’N’Gun Column: Keeping up with the W’s for the Everyday Fan
Warriors Survive a Prehistoric Collapse 117 to 106
First off everyone please do not be fooled by the score, sure we won by 10, but we also gave up a 20 point lead after a great first quarter start. The Dinosaurs almost made the Warriors look as if they were playing to survive.
In the end however, the Warriors showed why we deserve to be in the playoffs…….and it was our ability to never give up even when things looked bleak (Ok they weren’t that bleak, I’ll admit that scoring in the paint was a million times easier without Bosh there).
So the positives first, can I say we might possibly have one of the best backcourts in the NBA? Ummm how about hells yes.
33 + 25 = Awesomesuperfragilistic chemistry. Lets not forget the 15 dimes and that amazing blocked shot from Baron Davis……..on 7 footer Nesterovic (Biedrins also had a couple nice blocks too in the first).
But their back courts were just as effective that night as well, with Anthony Parker and TJ Ford playing like the Raptors we are so used to seeing in the Jurassic Park movies…..fast, furious, and pretty freakin smart. TJ Ford again showcased why he probably might be one of the most underrated guards in the league, scoring a very scary 13 in the fourth and Mr. Parker having both a 60+ FG percentage in the paint and on the perimeter (Me and my buddies were wondering where the hell this guy came from, cause he can flat out shoot).
Despite the Raptors ability to be efficient scorers both in and outside the paint, without a dominant interior game, it becomes a shootout, and who better to try to outshoot than a team who lives and plays by that same style. If you think about it, the Raptors are technically the Warriors version 0.2…………in the eastern conference…….led by a black cowboy(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv7IZP7u9FE).
On another note, I would also like to say that the Warriors inside cuts are a lot cleaner. Before they would just play off 1 on 1 mismatches, but the whole offense is beginning to move even without the ball, giving people like Baron, Monte, and SJax even more opportunities to score on the run and with the half court sets. It truly really is a great opportunity to see this team grow right in front of our eyes.
Hopefully we will continue to play with this same intensity, minus the fourth quarter early collapse.
Friday, March 7, 2008
The Dark Horse?
The NBA playoff run is causing for teams to play to a higher level than earlier in the season. In the East, the Boston Celtic’s gamble of bringing in Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen has paid off in spades, while the Detroit Pistons are continually playing up to their yearly expectations.
The powerful West Conference is not disappointing with perennial veterans like Kobe Bryant leading the Lakers back to the top and the new comers like New Orlean’s Chris Paul bringing the hope to the Hornets. However, with all the attention going to the Celtics, LeBron single handedly leading the Cavaliers, and Houston’s seventeen game winning streak, there is one team everyone is forgetting about, the San Antonio Spurs. Quietly, the Spurs who were forgotten about in the first half of the season have managed to rack up the third best record in the league and first in the dominant West. Oh by the way, they have won twelve straight.
Why do I do this ever year? Every year I sit back watching the NBA and seem to forget that the third team from Texas has the best winning percentage of any team in professional sports. Yes, better than the Patriots, Yankees and Red Sox. We forget San Antonio because of its lack of marketable superstars.
The NBA is a league of superstars and a game based more on personal performances over teamwork. The casual NBA fan associates with players more than the teams they play for. This is through marketing, advertising and television exposure.
Let’s face it, Tim Duncan pulling down 11.6 rebounds a game is not as exciting to see on Sports Center as LeBron driving and dunking over three guys. Because of this and Duncan’s mild mannered off court personality, marketers and advertisers do not give him the big marketing deals other superstars get. Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili although more exciting to watch than Duncan, are also not promoted highly because they are seen more as international players with less appeal to the American public.
Despite this the Spurs have continued to play under the radar and are posed to make another run at an NBA title this season. So watch out NBA coming in unknown the defending NBA Champion San Antonio Spurs.
The powerful West Conference is not disappointing with perennial veterans like Kobe Bryant leading the Lakers back to the top and the new comers like New Orlean’s Chris Paul bringing the hope to the Hornets. However, with all the attention going to the Celtics, LeBron single handedly leading the Cavaliers, and Houston’s seventeen game winning streak, there is one team everyone is forgetting about, the San Antonio Spurs. Quietly, the Spurs who were forgotten about in the first half of the season have managed to rack up the third best record in the league and first in the dominant West. Oh by the way, they have won twelve straight.
Why do I do this ever year? Every year I sit back watching the NBA and seem to forget that the third team from Texas has the best winning percentage of any team in professional sports. Yes, better than the Patriots, Yankees and Red Sox. We forget San Antonio because of its lack of marketable superstars.
The NBA is a league of superstars and a game based more on personal performances over teamwork. The casual NBA fan associates with players more than the teams they play for. This is through marketing, advertising and television exposure.
Let’s face it, Tim Duncan pulling down 11.6 rebounds a game is not as exciting to see on Sports Center as LeBron driving and dunking over three guys. Because of this and Duncan’s mild mannered off court personality, marketers and advertisers do not give him the big marketing deals other superstars get. Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili although more exciting to watch than Duncan, are also not promoted highly because they are seen more as international players with less appeal to the American public.
Despite this the Spurs have continued to play under the radar and are posed to make another run at an NBA title this season. So watch out NBA coming in unknown the defending NBA Champion San Antonio Spurs.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Players to Watch
Weeks after the fact, ESPN analysts still insist on breaking down the deadline deals in the NBA. Seriously though, how many times must the good people of America be subjected to Tim Legler's less than insightful views on the Shaq trade or Greg Anthony telling us that Jason Kidd will help Dallas because "he is one of the best point guards in the league." Really Greg? Please go on, you're supreme knowledge of the NBA is truly awe-inspiring. On a side note, I hope for my own safety that the next time someone on tv tells me that the Pau Gasol deal was good for the Lakers there are no sharp objects within my reach because I will be looking for something to stab into my eardrums. Seriously.
Instead of the same old analysis that is regurgitated over and over I thought it would be refreshing to discuss some players that have thus far gone under the radar, but will ultimately be making huge impacts for their teams. Regardless of whether or not they were involved in blockbuster trades recently. Here are some players to watch that haven't been talked about much but will be soon.
Monta Ellis- Over the past few weeks Monta has been on an unbelievable tear. So much so that teams are beginning to take notice and try to plan their defense accordingly. However, it has not seemed to matter much. In the month of February all he has done is average 26.6 per game along with 4.8 boards and 4.7 assists per. Oh and by the way, in that time he's shooting 61% from the field! Pretty amazing any way you look at it for a 22 year old guard who stands only 6'3 and weighs less than 200 pounds. Early in the season he started passing on open threes instead favoring more of the 10-15 foot shot range where he thrives. Recently he has turned himself into a force on the offensive end. He's now nearly automatic from mid range and opponents must respect the shot which has opened up Monta for many a crafty finish near the rim. Last year the Warriors upset the Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs but what becomes scary is the fact that Monta did not factor in that series. This year he's playing with confidence and will certainly figure in Don Nelson's postseason plans. As long as they qualify for the post season that is, which looks only slightly less up in the air with the season ending injury to Yao.
Joe Smith- Oh, by the way the Cavs made a trade as well, not sure if you had heard. Joe Smith was easily the least ballyhooed member of the Sczerbiak/Wallace/West/Smith quartet that Danny Ferry scored at the trade deadline. While those other three players will certainly make large contributions, and in my own estimation provide more than enough help to Lebron in winning the East, Joe Smith's value as a post scorer off the bench has been underrated. In the five games he's played since his arrival in Cleveland, he's scored at least 8 points along with 6 rebounds in all but one contest, which was in a game against the lowly Timberwolves in which the Cavaliers handily won. All of this has been in appearances coming off the bench. There was talk of the Cavs missing Drew Gooden, but as far as im concerned Joe Smith is the same player if not more. If nothing else, they lost that hideous beard Gooden wears, which has to be considered a positive.
Tyson Chandler- We know about Chris Paul, we've heard a few whispers about David West, but Tyson Chandler has been a big contributor on a playoff team in the West who has been mostly unmentioned. His numbers (11.7 PPG, 12.2 Reb. 0.8 Blk) are certainly respectable but they don't tell the whole story. It is clear that to be successful in the Western playoffs, the ability to defend the post is crucial. The West contains a laundry list of more than capable point guards except for perhaps the Lakers, but you can guarantee that Kobe will be doing most of the ballhandling in crunch time so that becomes a non-issue. My point is this, Chris Paul is as good as any point guard in the league. So then, the quality of minutes the Hornets can get out of Chandler and West will ultimately determine how far the Hornets will go in the playoffs. I feel that Chris Paul is so good, and his intensity will be so high throughout the course of a 7 game series that the Hornets become pretty damn imposing once you factor in an effective Tyson Chandler. He's shown that he is capable of playing very good defense, as well a being a very good defensive rebounder. If he holds his own on that end of the floor, everything he gives on offense is basically a bonus.
Hedo Turkoglu- Lost in the Dwight Howard dunk contest hype and huge contract given to Rashard Lewis has been the sensational play of Turkoglu this season for Orlando. All he's done this year is average nearly 20 points a game while adding 6 rebounds and almost 5 assists per. Those numbers are up from 13.3, 4 and 3.2 respectively. Can you NBA's most improved player? Everyone wants to talk about Boston, Detroit, Cleveland when discussing the Eastern conference playoffs, but if I'm any of those teams I'm not exactly jumping out of my seat to face the Orlando Magic. Dwight Howard is a beast, this is well chronicled. With Turkoglu and the aforementioned Lewis spreading the floor, this team has some very good options on offense as well as one of best rim-defenders in the league in Howard. If Turkoglu plays as well or better than he has all season and they get some decent point guard play, don't be too surprised if you see the Magic making a run in the East. Crazier things have happened.
Manu Ginobli- It has almost become a rite of late winter, the Spurs appear to be struggling and everyone tells us that they're too old and too slow and that this is the year that their age catches up to them in the playoffs. Next thing you know the playoffs come around and all of a sudden we can't stop hearing about how savvy and experienced they are, and how effective their grind it out, uber tough defense, half court style of play is. Here's the thing, the Spurs are really good, and this year, just like every other year it seems, nobody is really talking about them. Quietly they added veterans Damon Staudamire and Kurt Thomas who you just know will fit in perfectly. Also, even more quietly, Manu Ginobli is having a career year. This year he's averaging over 20 points a game, which is about 4 points more than his previous career high. Add to that the fact that he is an absolute crunch time killer and suddenly the Spurs aren't as done as you thought. Think about this, the Spurs are the defending champs and they still have the reigning finals MVP in Tony Parker who now has another year of finals experience under his belt, arguably the best coach in the league and easily the most underrated, in Greg Popovich, and oh yea, possibly the greatest power forward of all time in Tim Duncan, and now they're adding a career year from Ginobli! The Spurs certainly aren't getting any younger, but you can bet your life they won't go down easily this postseason if at all.
Instead of the same old analysis that is regurgitated over and over I thought it would be refreshing to discuss some players that have thus far gone under the radar, but will ultimately be making huge impacts for their teams. Regardless of whether or not they were involved in blockbuster trades recently. Here are some players to watch that haven't been talked about much but will be soon.
Monta Ellis- Over the past few weeks Monta has been on an unbelievable tear. So much so that teams are beginning to take notice and try to plan their defense accordingly. However, it has not seemed to matter much. In the month of February all he has done is average 26.6 per game along with 4.8 boards and 4.7 assists per. Oh and by the way, in that time he's shooting 61% from the field! Pretty amazing any way you look at it for a 22 year old guard who stands only 6'3 and weighs less than 200 pounds. Early in the season he started passing on open threes instead favoring more of the 10-15 foot shot range where he thrives. Recently he has turned himself into a force on the offensive end. He's now nearly automatic from mid range and opponents must respect the shot which has opened up Monta for many a crafty finish near the rim. Last year the Warriors upset the Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs but what becomes scary is the fact that Monta did not factor in that series. This year he's playing with confidence and will certainly figure in Don Nelson's postseason plans. As long as they qualify for the post season that is, which looks only slightly less up in the air with the season ending injury to Yao.
Joe Smith- Oh, by the way the Cavs made a trade as well, not sure if you had heard. Joe Smith was easily the least ballyhooed member of the Sczerbiak/Wallace/West/Smith quartet that Danny Ferry scored at the trade deadline. While those other three players will certainly make large contributions, and in my own estimation provide more than enough help to Lebron in winning the East, Joe Smith's value as a post scorer off the bench has been underrated. In the five games he's played since his arrival in Cleveland, he's scored at least 8 points along with 6 rebounds in all but one contest, which was in a game against the lowly Timberwolves in which the Cavaliers handily won. All of this has been in appearances coming off the bench. There was talk of the Cavs missing Drew Gooden, but as far as im concerned Joe Smith is the same player if not more. If nothing else, they lost that hideous beard Gooden wears, which has to be considered a positive.
Tyson Chandler- We know about Chris Paul, we've heard a few whispers about David West, but Tyson Chandler has been a big contributor on a playoff team in the West who has been mostly unmentioned. His numbers (11.7 PPG, 12.2 Reb. 0.8 Blk) are certainly respectable but they don't tell the whole story. It is clear that to be successful in the Western playoffs, the ability to defend the post is crucial. The West contains a laundry list of more than capable point guards except for perhaps the Lakers, but you can guarantee that Kobe will be doing most of the ballhandling in crunch time so that becomes a non-issue. My point is this, Chris Paul is as good as any point guard in the league. So then, the quality of minutes the Hornets can get out of Chandler and West will ultimately determine how far the Hornets will go in the playoffs. I feel that Chris Paul is so good, and his intensity will be so high throughout the course of a 7 game series that the Hornets become pretty damn imposing once you factor in an effective Tyson Chandler. He's shown that he is capable of playing very good defense, as well a being a very good defensive rebounder. If he holds his own on that end of the floor, everything he gives on offense is basically a bonus.
Hedo Turkoglu- Lost in the Dwight Howard dunk contest hype and huge contract given to Rashard Lewis has been the sensational play of Turkoglu this season for Orlando. All he's done this year is average nearly 20 points a game while adding 6 rebounds and almost 5 assists per. Those numbers are up from 13.3, 4 and 3.2 respectively. Can you NBA's most improved player? Everyone wants to talk about Boston, Detroit, Cleveland when discussing the Eastern conference playoffs, but if I'm any of those teams I'm not exactly jumping out of my seat to face the Orlando Magic. Dwight Howard is a beast, this is well chronicled. With Turkoglu and the aforementioned Lewis spreading the floor, this team has some very good options on offense as well as one of best rim-defenders in the league in Howard. If Turkoglu plays as well or better than he has all season and they get some decent point guard play, don't be too surprised if you see the Magic making a run in the East. Crazier things have happened.
Manu Ginobli- It has almost become a rite of late winter, the Spurs appear to be struggling and everyone tells us that they're too old and too slow and that this is the year that their age catches up to them in the playoffs. Next thing you know the playoffs come around and all of a sudden we can't stop hearing about how savvy and experienced they are, and how effective their grind it out, uber tough defense, half court style of play is. Here's the thing, the Spurs are really good, and this year, just like every other year it seems, nobody is really talking about them. Quietly they added veterans Damon Staudamire and Kurt Thomas who you just know will fit in perfectly. Also, even more quietly, Manu Ginobli is having a career year. This year he's averaging over 20 points a game, which is about 4 points more than his previous career high. Add to that the fact that he is an absolute crunch time killer and suddenly the Spurs aren't as done as you thought. Think about this, the Spurs are the defending champs and they still have the reigning finals MVP in Tony Parker who now has another year of finals experience under his belt, arguably the best coach in the league and easily the most underrated, in Greg Popovich, and oh yea, possibly the greatest power forward of all time in Tim Duncan, and now they're adding a career year from Ginobli! The Spurs certainly aren't getting any younger, but you can bet your life they won't go down easily this postseason if at all.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Who Will Be The Beast From The Least?
Alright ladies and gentleman I’m back with my second installment of who will make the playoffs. This week I pick the team who will be the sacrificial lamb to whoever emerges from the bloodbath of the Western Conference because as I previously wrote, it is up for grabs.
1.Boston Celtics-The Celtics are the only team from the East who could seriously challenge a West coast juggernaught. This is evident because of their 16-0 record against the Western Conference. It also remains to be seen how Kevin Garnett recovers from his abdominal strain. They would also like to acquire a point guard by the trade deadline. Rajon Rondo has talent but is inexperienced and they are hoping to get a shot at Sam Cassell who obviously wants out of Los Angeles.
2.Detroit Pistons-The Pistons have a chance to do something special this year, but I don’t think they have the talent to go all the way. Last year they were thoroughly exposed by a not so good Cavaliers team, with numerous breakdowns on the defensive end. Trading Nazr Mohammed was a bad move because it left them without an inside presence. Right now they have Primo Brezec masquerading as a center. I believe that they will get to the second round, and if they get farther than that, I will be surprised.
3.Orlando Magic-The two man combination of Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis has paid dividends for the Magic. Any other year, I would have them at the number two seed, but their inexperience has them at the number three. Unlike the Celtics, the sky is the limit and their window of opportunity is about five or six years as opposed to two or three for the Celtics. Jameer Nelson has been a strong contributor at point guard, while Hedo Turkoglu is having the best season of his career. I see them taking on Boston in the Conference finals, but lose in seven.
4.Toronto Raptors-Chris Bosh continues to develop but takes steps backwards when he faces a fellow superstar power forward. That is going to be a key for them down the stretch. Losing T.J. Ford was big but with the emergence of Jose Calderon, it begs the question, why was Ford starting over him in the first place? Last years number one overall pick Andres Bargnani has fallen back in his development and has not shown the qualities of a number one over all pick. The only highlight of their playoff run this year will be Jamero Moon dunking on someone down low.
5.Cleveland Cavaliers-Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Last year, LeBron James was the talk of Cleveland. Not only for his Yankee hat, but also for leading the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals. This year however, I doubt they will get that far. Larry Hughes has proven to be an overpaid number two option who spends more time on the injured list than on the floor. Anderson Varajao’s contract situation was a huge distraction heading into training camp. But, he is now also on the injured list, joining Sasha Pavolic and Hughes. This team is not that great, and if they make it out of the first round I will be extremely surprised.
6.Atlanta Hawks-This is my sleeper pick for the playoffs this year. Marvin Williams has developed into a wonderful role player. And with the acquisition of Mike Bibby, he brings not only a solid jump shot but also playoff experience and leadership. Al Horford is a solid rookie of the year candidate and will be a force in the league for years to come. They have the potential to make it to the conference finals if they play like they know how to.
7.Washington Wizards-The Wizards play way better without Gilbert Arenas. I am a really big fan of “Agent Zero”, but this team does not play to his strengths. He is fitted for a more Golden State Warriors style of offense and it remains to be seen if he will remain with the Wizards after the season. If he returns in March as they hope, they have a legitimate shot at a higher seed. Antawn Jamison is aging rapidly, even though his spot on the All Star Team may say otherwise. Caron Butler is going to be the key for them when he returns from injury. I really like this team, but from where I’m sitting now, they don’t make it out of the first round.
8.Chicago Bulls-This team is the biggest disappointment of the season. They have so many problems, I don’t know where to start. It could be Ben Wallace’s rapid deterioration, or the fact that two of the future stars were failed to be signed to long term deals, or just the fact that we expected too much of them. Whatever it is, they stink. With that said, they will make a wonderful eighth seed in the Least (excuse me, the East) because people will underestimate them. Evidence of this was when they knocked off the defending champion, Miami Heat, last year in the first round.
Stay tuned for another article from me coming this week. Feel free to leave me a comment; I’d like to hear from you.
1.Boston Celtics-The Celtics are the only team from the East who could seriously challenge a West coast juggernaught. This is evident because of their 16-0 record against the Western Conference. It also remains to be seen how Kevin Garnett recovers from his abdominal strain. They would also like to acquire a point guard by the trade deadline. Rajon Rondo has talent but is inexperienced and they are hoping to get a shot at Sam Cassell who obviously wants out of Los Angeles.
2.Detroit Pistons-The Pistons have a chance to do something special this year, but I don’t think they have the talent to go all the way. Last year they were thoroughly exposed by a not so good Cavaliers team, with numerous breakdowns on the defensive end. Trading Nazr Mohammed was a bad move because it left them without an inside presence. Right now they have Primo Brezec masquerading as a center. I believe that they will get to the second round, and if they get farther than that, I will be surprised.
3.Orlando Magic-The two man combination of Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis has paid dividends for the Magic. Any other year, I would have them at the number two seed, but their inexperience has them at the number three. Unlike the Celtics, the sky is the limit and their window of opportunity is about five or six years as opposed to two or three for the Celtics. Jameer Nelson has been a strong contributor at point guard, while Hedo Turkoglu is having the best season of his career. I see them taking on Boston in the Conference finals, but lose in seven.
4.Toronto Raptors-Chris Bosh continues to develop but takes steps backwards when he faces a fellow superstar power forward. That is going to be a key for them down the stretch. Losing T.J. Ford was big but with the emergence of Jose Calderon, it begs the question, why was Ford starting over him in the first place? Last years number one overall pick Andres Bargnani has fallen back in his development and has not shown the qualities of a number one over all pick. The only highlight of their playoff run this year will be Jamero Moon dunking on someone down low.
5.Cleveland Cavaliers-Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Last year, LeBron James was the talk of Cleveland. Not only for his Yankee hat, but also for leading the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals. This year however, I doubt they will get that far. Larry Hughes has proven to be an overpaid number two option who spends more time on the injured list than on the floor. Anderson Varajao’s contract situation was a huge distraction heading into training camp. But, he is now also on the injured list, joining Sasha Pavolic and Hughes. This team is not that great, and if they make it out of the first round I will be extremely surprised.
6.Atlanta Hawks-This is my sleeper pick for the playoffs this year. Marvin Williams has developed into a wonderful role player. And with the acquisition of Mike Bibby, he brings not only a solid jump shot but also playoff experience and leadership. Al Horford is a solid rookie of the year candidate and will be a force in the league for years to come. They have the potential to make it to the conference finals if they play like they know how to.
7.Washington Wizards-The Wizards play way better without Gilbert Arenas. I am a really big fan of “Agent Zero”, but this team does not play to his strengths. He is fitted for a more Golden State Warriors style of offense and it remains to be seen if he will remain with the Wizards after the season. If he returns in March as they hope, they have a legitimate shot at a higher seed. Antawn Jamison is aging rapidly, even though his spot on the All Star Team may say otherwise. Caron Butler is going to be the key for them when he returns from injury. I really like this team, but from where I’m sitting now, they don’t make it out of the first round.
8.Chicago Bulls-This team is the biggest disappointment of the season. They have so many problems, I don’t know where to start. It could be Ben Wallace’s rapid deterioration, or the fact that two of the future stars were failed to be signed to long term deals, or just the fact that we expected too much of them. Whatever it is, they stink. With that said, they will make a wonderful eighth seed in the Least (excuse me, the East) because people will underestimate them. Evidence of this was when they knocked off the defending champion, Miami Heat, last year in the first round.
Stay tuned for another article from me coming this week. Feel free to leave me a comment; I’d like to hear from you.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
How the West was won?
My first article revolves around the seemingly up for grabs Western Conference. Before the season started San Antonio was the clear favorite after the Mavericks(specifically Dirk) were exposed by Golden State, Phoenix’s run and gun circus ran out of gas, and the Lakers imploded once again in the first round. After a summer of discontent in my beloved Lakerland, favoritism among GM’s(Danny Ainge and Kevin McHale), and scandals among referees David Stern returns with an encore of “Were Better Than Major League Baseball Even Though Our Ratings Don’t Prove It”. The standings are cluttered with teams vying for the top spot which is why im here to clear the smoke and show you who will make the playoffs in the west.
1.San Antonio Spurs- The defending champion Spurs have been decimated by injuries, but with Tony Parker expected back after the all-star break the champs are poised to make a run at the title again because when they roll on all cylinders they’re almost impossible to beat.
2.Los Angeles Lakers- Many people would argue about this pick but I believed this pick is justified. The acquisition of Pau Gasol was a smart move because as the Lakers proved against Orlando the Pau/Kobe one/two punch is almost unguardable. With Andrew Bynum expected back by mid-March, it gives them enough time to click and get a feel for each other. Because they’re the only team I think could last in a seven game series with San Antonio.
3.Dallas Mavericks- If Steve Kerr weren’t such a coward the Suns would be here but things didn’t work out that way. The Mavs could possibly do something if Dirk would stop folding like A-Rod in the playoffs and play to his potential. I’m interested to see if Mark Cuban moves Devin Harris to acquire Jason Kidd as rumored. Making that move would give them a two year window of opportunity until Jason Kidd begins to decline so stay tuned for further developments.
4.Phoenix Suns- Let me start this pick off by saying the Suns get this spot by default because everyone below them is mediocre or overrated. Yes, the Suns acquired Superman(Shaq) forgetting they also possess kryptonite(their offensive system). Another thing weve learned from this trade is that Steve Kerr is a bad poker player. The Lakers Pau Gasol acquisition forced Kerr to acquire an aging, selfish, overpaid has been whose ego exceeds his contract. Another reason is that Amare Stoudemire has had his lack of defense exposed time and time again this year. On a side note I’ll apologize in a future article if this trade works out.
5.New Orleans Hornets- This team is good but not great as there record would suggest. This was proven when the Lakers came to town and totally outplayed them at home. With that said they won’t last ten minutes with an experienced team like the Spurs in a playoff series.
6.Utah Jazz- The Jazz are out to build on last years playoff run and I think they can if people show up. Its time for Andrei Kirelenko to put up or shut up. He’s getting paid superstar money on a playoff contender in the Bestern Conference yet he wants to be the “guy”. If he plays like he is capable, these guys can sneak up on some teams.
7.Denver Nuggets- Allen Iverson to Denver was over a year ago and this team is still only exciting to watch. Coincidentally, I think not. If the NBA extended quarter lengths by about 5 minutes this team would be my number one seed because then there would be enough ball to go around. Until then they’re just only exciting.
8.Golden State Warriors- Some may argue this spot belongs to Houston but I’ll wait for T-Mac to get healthy. But, even the Rockets just aren’t that good. Golden State is fun to watch led by black Santa Claus Baron Davis however I don’t see them getting past the first round this year unless they run into the Mavs again because they have no defense.
Stay interested because my next article is my Leastern excuse me Eastern conference playoff seedings.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
The ZenMaster
The Hustle by Danny Russell
Long ago he was named The ZenMaster. Before that his former Knick teammates referred to him as Head and Shoulders. It was the 70's afterall. Some of his current almost-too-young-to-shave-players call him P.J. Occasionally, one of his fiercest competitors, former coach, now ESPN analyst, and still-hasn't-beaten-him-in-the-playoffs-yet Jeff Van Gundy, mockingly labels him as Big Chief Triangle. In Montana during high school he was Bones. Whatever the nickname: Action Jackson, The Mop, or The Human Coat Hanger - there is one undeniable moniker this former hippie maverick has earned - the best NBA coach ever. Okay, this should be easy. Can you name him?
Who is Phil Jackson, Alex?
Yeah. Phil Jackson indeed.
The mystical round ball sage, well known and world famous as the game's best coach, is the most successful bench conductor since the late great Boston Celtic coach and outspoken Jackson critic Red Auerbach. Only Phil has as many championships as legendary Red, who dominated the game while stoking his stinky stogies along the sideline. He blew plenty ofsmoke into the rafters while hoisting up trophies in arenas everywhere.
Red's image was synonymous with the NBA for decades. Today, most NBA coaches are practically anonymous.
Outside of maybe Pat Riley, Auerbach, Jackson and a few others I'd bet most people do not even know the name of a single coach in the NBA. Quick, name the coach of the defending 2007 world champion San Antonio Spurs. Give up? Time. His name is Gregg Popovich. That's right, even though straight-laced Coach Pop is one helluva good coach and his Spurs have won four rings, he isn't nearly as famous or successful as bestselling author, kooky oddball, and commercial pitchman Coach Jackson.
Jackson has become a coaching icon. And quite an eccentric one at that too.
Phil has several eclectic interests ranging from film, literature, traveling, politics, to spas and spirituality. His unique blend ofEastern philosophies, Native American traditions, and hippy demeanor mixed with his strict Pentecostal upbringing is legendary. He's known to burn sage in a locker room to fend off bad spirits during losing streaks. The technique is called smudging, which is the burning of certain herbs like sage, cedar, and sweet grass to create a cleansing smoke bath that purifies the space. Whoa, that's groovy, dude.
And by the way, politically, he says he's backing Barack Obama. That could be good news for Obama, because Phil knows a winner when he sees one.
He jokes that he prefers not coaching All-Star games anymore. Eventhough the Lakers currently do not have the best record in the West, Phil responded to questions about whether he'd like to coach in the All-Star game by saying, "Well, it's an honor representing your team. But God help me if I have to go to the All-Star game. I really wouldn't want to do that. There are a lot of young coaches. It would be great to see them there. I think I have reservations somewhere, a place to relax and retreat during that period of time." Coach went on to say, "ButKobe (Bryant) told me a week ago that, 'we're going to send you there regardless.' So, I'm trying to do my best to stay on top of it."
Phil usually gets what he wants so chances are he won't be coaching in New Orleans over the All-Star weekend and Obama will be President. And if I were a betting man, I'd wager that The ZenMaster will be enjoying a nice sabbatical filled with rub downs, mud baths, and meditative sunsets at his favorite spa, the Golden Door Spa & Resort in Escondido with girlfriend and Lakers owner Jerry Buss' daughter Jeanne Buss. I hear the spa is spectacular. As in spectacularly expensive.
Some say the nature of being an NBA coach is a lot like being Presidentof the United States. And if this is true then Phil Jackson is Franklin D. Roosevelt. They share many similarities. For example, the NBA doesn't have a 22nd Amendment, so just like FDR, Jackson isn't hamstrung by term limits like good ol' Bubba Clinton, but I'm sure he relates to Slick Willie a little bit because, just like Hillary, his girl, Jeanne, is also poised to someday be President of the. Lakers.
Presidents have voters; coaches have fans and both positions are subject to public opinion. The only thing that matters more than public opinion are results. Phil gets results big time. He changes opinions by his deeds. Coaches are not measured by elections or votes they are measured by wins, playoff appearances, and bling. Championship rings. And Phil owns tons of hardware. His diamond rings are forever. His rock collection is so bright the bling could blind Paris Hilton.
In 2008, one-of-a-kind Coach Jackson is serving long into his fifth term after leading generations of players to 9 NBA titles. Just likeRoosevelt, he too has resided over the Greatest Generation of all time- the Chicago Bulls. And now, he has his perky young Los Angeles Lakers seemingly assembled for a deep run into the Western Conference playoffsand beyond.
He magically ridded himself of Kwame "The Pink Hole" Brown with help
from much maligned but recently resurrected Lakers GM Mitch Kupchick when the former North Carolina Tar Heel pulled off The Spanish Acquisition - Pao Gasol.
Ole' Mitch! That was one Pao-erful move. Badump bump.
I already hear Jackson's deep bellow, "Fresh water for my horses, and paella for all my men."
For years, critics have claimed Coach Jackson was too impatient and could never build a team from the ground up or turn around perennial losers like Larry Brown. Well, there's no one like Coach Brown and news flash - when he's won, he's had talent. All great coaches need great players. Period.
There is a grain of truth to the fact that Jackson became head coach ofthe Bulls after owner Jerry Reinsdorf assembled all the players and of course he signed on with the Lakers after former Laker GM Jerry West pulled off the Shaq deal. But to me, his career choices show that in reality, Phil is a good judge of talent, knows what he does best, and is smart enough to choose how to be in the right place at the right time. He knows when to show 'em and when to fold 'em. Call it Karma. Call it psychic energetic prairie wisdom. Call it whatever you want. The dude's got good Chi.
But now it's different. He came back gambling on the franchise that was reeling after an implosion of egos and age. He needed time off to recover from drama overload. He had to have two hips replaced and a heart surgery. He looks more limber, healthy, and fresher then the day he signed on for his first stint with the Purple & Gold Gang back in1999.
Way to go Jeanne.
Finally, for Kobe's sake, the pieces are all there for the new LakeShow. Only it's going to require some patience in LakerNation because there are some pretty big "IFs." The biggest IF is IF phenomenal center Andrew Bynum can return to full strength as expected in March. And there's IF mercurial Lamar Odom regains his usually reliable shooting touch. And IF slashing defensive ace Trevor "The Razor" Ariza heals his broken foot. And IF Pao Gasol along with his 18 points, 8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks a game can all gel.
IF they do - It could be parade time in June again down on Figueroa Street.
As Chicky baby used to say, "The door's closed, the light's out, the eggs are cooling, the butter's getting hard, and the Jell-o's jiggling!
Coaches, like Presidents, are officially the leaders of their people but Jackson is also part riverboat gambler and part nonconformist gunslinger similar to the fictional character in Kenny Rogers' song, The Gambler. Except in real life, if Jackson were to hang out with a country star, he'd probably prefer hanging out with Willie Nelson on his bus more then with Kenny in Laughlin or Reno, if you know what I mean.
Irie, mon.
LakerNation, don't forget that you read it here first in The Hustle: If healthy, the Lakers will beat Boston in seven games to become 2008 NBA champions in a classic for the new millennium.
That's right, I believe that, barring injures, the smart money has already shifted onto Jackson and his built-from-the-ground-up, self-nurtured young Laker team. These talented kids will allow Coach Jackson to pull yet another ace from his sleeve and set him alone onthe NBA mountain top for his record 10th championship.
And just to make Red Auerbach rollover in his grave, I predict not onlywill these young Lakers beat the old but rejuvenated Boston Celtics, but they are nowhere near finished helping P.J. collect more shiny hardware and rings. Yes, these new Lakers are so good that The ZenGambler will not be able to cash in his chips and ride off into the sunset until, well, I imagine Kenny singing now.
There'll be time enough for countin' when the dealins done.
Commander in Chief Phil Jackson might earn yet another nickname - TheZenGambler.* * *Remember, please read The Hustle and give peace a chance.
Long ago he was named The ZenMaster. Before that his former Knick teammates referred to him as Head and Shoulders. It was the 70's afterall. Some of his current almost-too-young-to-shave-players call him P.J. Occasionally, one of his fiercest competitors, former coach, now ESPN analyst, and still-hasn't-beaten-him-in-the-playoffs-yet Jeff Van Gundy, mockingly labels him as Big Chief Triangle. In Montana during high school he was Bones. Whatever the nickname: Action Jackson, The Mop, or The Human Coat Hanger - there is one undeniable moniker this former hippie maverick has earned - the best NBA coach ever. Okay, this should be easy. Can you name him?
Who is Phil Jackson, Alex?
Yeah. Phil Jackson indeed.
The mystical round ball sage, well known and world famous as the game's best coach, is the most successful bench conductor since the late great Boston Celtic coach and outspoken Jackson critic Red Auerbach. Only Phil has as many championships as legendary Red, who dominated the game while stoking his stinky stogies along the sideline. He blew plenty ofsmoke into the rafters while hoisting up trophies in arenas everywhere.
Red's image was synonymous with the NBA for decades. Today, most NBA coaches are practically anonymous.
Outside of maybe Pat Riley, Auerbach, Jackson and a few others I'd bet most people do not even know the name of a single coach in the NBA. Quick, name the coach of the defending 2007 world champion San Antonio Spurs. Give up? Time. His name is Gregg Popovich. That's right, even though straight-laced Coach Pop is one helluva good coach and his Spurs have won four rings, he isn't nearly as famous or successful as bestselling author, kooky oddball, and commercial pitchman Coach Jackson.
Jackson has become a coaching icon. And quite an eccentric one at that too.
Phil has several eclectic interests ranging from film, literature, traveling, politics, to spas and spirituality. His unique blend ofEastern philosophies, Native American traditions, and hippy demeanor mixed with his strict Pentecostal upbringing is legendary. He's known to burn sage in a locker room to fend off bad spirits during losing streaks. The technique is called smudging, which is the burning of certain herbs like sage, cedar, and sweet grass to create a cleansing smoke bath that purifies the space. Whoa, that's groovy, dude.
And by the way, politically, he says he's backing Barack Obama. That could be good news for Obama, because Phil knows a winner when he sees one.
He jokes that he prefers not coaching All-Star games anymore. Eventhough the Lakers currently do not have the best record in the West, Phil responded to questions about whether he'd like to coach in the All-Star game by saying, "Well, it's an honor representing your team. But God help me if I have to go to the All-Star game. I really wouldn't want to do that. There are a lot of young coaches. It would be great to see them there. I think I have reservations somewhere, a place to relax and retreat during that period of time." Coach went on to say, "ButKobe (Bryant) told me a week ago that, 'we're going to send you there regardless.' So, I'm trying to do my best to stay on top of it."
Phil usually gets what he wants so chances are he won't be coaching in New Orleans over the All-Star weekend and Obama will be President. And if I were a betting man, I'd wager that The ZenMaster will be enjoying a nice sabbatical filled with rub downs, mud baths, and meditative sunsets at his favorite spa, the Golden Door Spa & Resort in Escondido with girlfriend and Lakers owner Jerry Buss' daughter Jeanne Buss. I hear the spa is spectacular. As in spectacularly expensive.
Some say the nature of being an NBA coach is a lot like being Presidentof the United States. And if this is true then Phil Jackson is Franklin D. Roosevelt. They share many similarities. For example, the NBA doesn't have a 22nd Amendment, so just like FDR, Jackson isn't hamstrung by term limits like good ol' Bubba Clinton, but I'm sure he relates to Slick Willie a little bit because, just like Hillary, his girl, Jeanne, is also poised to someday be President of the. Lakers.
Presidents have voters; coaches have fans and both positions are subject to public opinion. The only thing that matters more than public opinion are results. Phil gets results big time. He changes opinions by his deeds. Coaches are not measured by elections or votes they are measured by wins, playoff appearances, and bling. Championship rings. And Phil owns tons of hardware. His diamond rings are forever. His rock collection is so bright the bling could blind Paris Hilton.
In 2008, one-of-a-kind Coach Jackson is serving long into his fifth term after leading generations of players to 9 NBA titles. Just likeRoosevelt, he too has resided over the Greatest Generation of all time- the Chicago Bulls. And now, he has his perky young Los Angeles Lakers seemingly assembled for a deep run into the Western Conference playoffsand beyond.
He magically ridded himself of Kwame "The Pink Hole" Brown with help
from much maligned but recently resurrected Lakers GM Mitch Kupchick when the former North Carolina Tar Heel pulled off The Spanish Acquisition - Pao Gasol.
Ole' Mitch! That was one Pao-erful move. Badump bump.
I already hear Jackson's deep bellow, "Fresh water for my horses, and paella for all my men."
For years, critics have claimed Coach Jackson was too impatient and could never build a team from the ground up or turn around perennial losers like Larry Brown. Well, there's no one like Coach Brown and news flash - when he's won, he's had talent. All great coaches need great players. Period.
There is a grain of truth to the fact that Jackson became head coach ofthe Bulls after owner Jerry Reinsdorf assembled all the players and of course he signed on with the Lakers after former Laker GM Jerry West pulled off the Shaq deal. But to me, his career choices show that in reality, Phil is a good judge of talent, knows what he does best, and is smart enough to choose how to be in the right place at the right time. He knows when to show 'em and when to fold 'em. Call it Karma. Call it psychic energetic prairie wisdom. Call it whatever you want. The dude's got good Chi.
But now it's different. He came back gambling on the franchise that was reeling after an implosion of egos and age. He needed time off to recover from drama overload. He had to have two hips replaced and a heart surgery. He looks more limber, healthy, and fresher then the day he signed on for his first stint with the Purple & Gold Gang back in1999.
Way to go Jeanne.
Finally, for Kobe's sake, the pieces are all there for the new LakeShow. Only it's going to require some patience in LakerNation because there are some pretty big "IFs." The biggest IF is IF phenomenal center Andrew Bynum can return to full strength as expected in March. And there's IF mercurial Lamar Odom regains his usually reliable shooting touch. And IF slashing defensive ace Trevor "The Razor" Ariza heals his broken foot. And IF Pao Gasol along with his 18 points, 8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks a game can all gel.
IF they do - It could be parade time in June again down on Figueroa Street.
As Chicky baby used to say, "The door's closed, the light's out, the eggs are cooling, the butter's getting hard, and the Jell-o's jiggling!
Coaches, like Presidents, are officially the leaders of their people but Jackson is also part riverboat gambler and part nonconformist gunslinger similar to the fictional character in Kenny Rogers' song, The Gambler. Except in real life, if Jackson were to hang out with a country star, he'd probably prefer hanging out with Willie Nelson on his bus more then with Kenny in Laughlin or Reno, if you know what I mean.
Irie, mon.
LakerNation, don't forget that you read it here first in The Hustle: If healthy, the Lakers will beat Boston in seven games to become 2008 NBA champions in a classic for the new millennium.
That's right, I believe that, barring injures, the smart money has already shifted onto Jackson and his built-from-the-ground-up, self-nurtured young Laker team. These talented kids will allow Coach Jackson to pull yet another ace from his sleeve and set him alone onthe NBA mountain top for his record 10th championship.
And just to make Red Auerbach rollover in his grave, I predict not onlywill these young Lakers beat the old but rejuvenated Boston Celtics, but they are nowhere near finished helping P.J. collect more shiny hardware and rings. Yes, these new Lakers are so good that The ZenGambler will not be able to cash in his chips and ride off into the sunset until, well, I imagine Kenny singing now.
There'll be time enough for countin' when the dealins done.
Commander in Chief Phil Jackson might earn yet another nickname - TheZenGambler.* * *Remember, please read The Hustle and give peace a chance.
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