Fab Five for the Month of January 2008

In the first month of 2008, many players have played great, but only five will get recognized as the best. Last month, Allen Iverson, Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant, and Brandon Roy, rounded out the very first Fab Five of the month. Now, here is, the top 5 players, for the month of January 2008!

5. Amare Stoudemire-Center-Phoenix Suns: It took me a long time to decide whether the big man from Canada, or the big man from Phoenix deserved a spot in the January Fab Five. In the end, I decided that Stoudemire's overall month was slightly superior to Bosh's, and that he truly earned a spot in the top 5. For the month, Amare was a huge factor in the Suns 11-5 record during the month of January. S.T.A.T., had averages of 23.9 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 2.5bpg, and 1.0 spg. He also shot an incredible 61% from the field. Stoudemire's most spectacular January performance, had to of been in the Suns 33 point blowout of the Atlanta Hawks. In that 125-92 rout, Amare had 24 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 4 blocks, and 2 steals, in 28 minutes! However, those stats weren't the main reason this was his best game. In this game, Amare shot an out of this world 90.9% from the field(10-11 from the field). Amare had a great month, and he earned his spot in Crossover Hoop's Fab Five of the Month.

4. Chris Paul-Guard-New Orleans Hornets: Leading his team to a league best 12-2 record for the month of January, CP3 makes his second appearance Crossover Hoop's, monthly Fab Five rankings. Paul had 12 double doubles in 14 games this month, and in those 12 games, the Hornets were 11-1. Paul had modest numbers this month. He had averages of 19.4 points, 11.9 assists, and 1.7 steals per contest this month. He also shot 47.5% from the field, and 89.1% from the line, very good percentages. Look for Paul to continue his outstanding play, en route to a possible MVP award.

3. Kobe Bryant-Guard-Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe kicked the Lakers off to a 7 game winning streak this month, and it seemed the Lakers would never lose again. However, for the 4th consecutive year, the injury bug hit the Lake Show, and Kobe's been left to do everything himself. The Lakers finished off the month weak, but Kobe finished it off strong, and continued to not let up despite the Lakers losing streaks. He finished off the month with 6 straight double doubles. With averages of 29.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.8 steals, Kobe lead the Lakers to a respectable 9-5 record for the month of January.

2. Yao Ming-Center-Houston Rockets: I never thought one of my least favorite players would make it on this list, but Yao earned it. The Rockets had a 10-4 record this month, however, they were 10-3 with Yao in the lineup, which makes Yao's January performance even better. In 13 games this month, Yao averaged 25.1 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks, on 54.3 percent shooting from the field. Yao's defining performance this month was in the Rockets last game this month against the Warriors. In that game, Yao torched the Warriors for 36 points and 19 rebounds. He also shot 11-19 from the field for a 57.9 field goal percentage. Don't forget, he sank 14 out of 15 free throws in that game too. A truly dominating month for Yao. Let's see if his play continues past All-Star weekend.

1. LeBron James-Forward-Cleveland Cavaliers: In perhaps the most spectacular, individual performance over the course of the month this season, LeBron James lead his Cavs to a 11-2 record for the month of January(The Cavaliers lost 3 games this month, but LeBron missed the most recent loss due to injury). Averaging a league high 32.8 points to go along with 9.2 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 2.4 steals, LeBron was clearly the best player over the course of January. He also shot 49.2 percent from the field during the month. A very good percentage for someone shoots as much as LBJ does. LeBron also had some amazing clutch performances this month, providing his team with tons of clutch plays in close wins against Atlanta, Toronto, Charlotte, Memphis, San Antonio, Los Angeles(Lakers), and the Portland. As you can see, King James was clearly the best player during the month of January.

Hoped you enjoyed January's Fab Five! Don't forget to check back soon for Trade Idea of the Week, All-Star Predictions and Wishes, a possible All-Star weekend diary, and much more.

The next Fab Five of the month, will be for the month of February. Remember to check that out at the end of the upcoming month.

If I Were a Country of 1 Billion People, My 2008 NBA East All-Stars Would Be:

Here's Crossover Hoops, 2008 NBA Eastern Conference All-Stars:

Starters

Guard-Dwyane Wade-Miami Heat: D-Wade is the first example, so far, of a player on a completely horrendous team, but he still deserves an All-Star team spot. Wade is such an amazing player, even I sometimes discredit him for everything he does. He plays through so much pain, and is still an outstanding player. With averages of 25.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 steals, Wade is having an elite season, even with the struggles his team is having.

Guard-Jason Kidd-New Jersey Nets: His shooting percentages may disgust you, but Kidd gets the job done. He already has eleven, I repeat, ELEVEN, triple doubles this year. He is one of the smartest guards in the game. He knows where to be when shots go up, he makes excellent passes, and he a solid defender. One game of Kidd's that has been in the back of my mind all year, was his November 16 game vs Orlando. He recorded, 19 rebounds! He also had 10 assists and 11 points. One of the best all around performances, IMO, this season.

Forward-LeBron James-Cleveland Cavaliers: Arguably the best player in the NBA, LeBron James is having a stellar season. Not only is he leading the league in scoring, but he is also shooting a career best, 48.2% from the field, and career bests in rebounds(7.7), assists(7.3), and blocks(1.1). I do not need to say much about LBJ, because everyone knows he is well-deserving of this slot on the East All-Stars.

Forward-Kevin Garnett-Boston Celtics: Not having his best statistical season of his career, but KG is still playing excellent basketball. He is playing some of the most dominate defense of his career, and is shooting a career high 55.1% from the field. Although his scoring numbers are down, it is due to the fact that he is on a Celtics team with three other players capable of scoring 20+ every game.

Center-Dwight Howard-Orlando Magic: D-How is easily the best center in the NBA, and arguably a top 10 player in the league. He is leading the league in rebounds with a 14.9 average, and is also 4th in the league in blocks per game, averaging just over 2.6 swats per game. He is looking to become this first player since Wilt Chamberlain, to average at least 20 points, 15 rebounds, and shoot at least 60% from the field. Very good company to be in for a player who is only 22 years old. Howard is averaging career highs in points, rebounds, blocks, steals, free throw attempts per game, and minutes per game. He is having an amazing season, and could be in the running for MVP.


Guard-Chauncey Billups-Detroit Pistons: Piston point guard Chauncey Billups is having a very good season, well deserving of a spot on the All-Star team. With averages of 17.9 points per game, 7.1 assists per game, and shooting a career high, 45.8% from the field, Billups is definitely All-Star material. With not much competition among guards in the East, it was a fairly easy choice to name Chauncey a Crossover Hoops Eastern Conference All-Star.

Guard-Richard Hamilton-Detroit Pistons: It was a difficult decision to pick Rip over the sharp shooter from Milwaukee, but, Hamilton's numbers just impress me way more than Redd's do. Not only is Richard Hamilton averaging 19.0 points and 4.4 assists per game, he is also shooting amazing percentages from the field, and beyond the arc. Shooting 50.3% from the field, on 15.2 shots per game, is great. He is also shooting a ridiculous 46.7% from behind the arc, which is sixth in the league. Hamilton is having another great season, and he deserves to be noticed.

Forward-Caron Butler-Washington Wizards: Having easily the best season of his young career, Wizards forward Caron Butler has earned his trip to New Orleans. He is averaging career highs in almost every stat. Points(21.9), assists(4.3), field goal percentage(48.1), three point percentage(37.2), free throw percentage(91.5), steals(2.4), and minutes per game(40.5). He also has 2 triple doubles this year. He is a great all around player, and is truly an NBA All-Star.

Forward-Richard Jefferson-New Jersey Nets: Richard Jefferson is having a year, that everyone has been waiting for. He is finally starting to reach his potential. He has gotten of to a scorching start, averaging 24.0 points per game, which is good enough to be 6th in the NBA. He is finally starting to climb the ladder to superstar status, and is doing so convincingly. No way RJ should be left off the East squad.

Center-Chris Bosh-Toronto Raptors: Regarded by most as a power forward in this league, but there is absolutely no other center besides Howard in the east, that deserves to make this team. So, I, like many others, know that CB4 plays enough time at center to be put on the team as a backup center. Bosh is a great big, and continues to get better. Although he got off to a slow start, he has managed to get past that, and show that he is a dominate player in todays game.

Forward-Antwan Jamison-Washington Wizards: Like the Pistons, the Wizards, also have multiple players on the All-Star team. Antwan Jamison is having a spectacular season, and is certainly having an All-Star caliber season. With averages of 21.4 points per game and 10.6 rebounds per game, Antwan is stepping up big in the absence of Agent Zero.

Guard: Michael Redd-Milwaukee Bucks: I originally had Celtic, Paul Pierce, in this last slot, however, comparing the two statistically, Redd is having a far superior season. Coming off an injury plagued year, Redd has responded with averages of 23.0 points, 3.6 assists(career high), 4.7 rebounds, and 1.1 steals. Look for Redd to continue scoring a bunch of points, and continue his path to being more than just an All-Star.

Painful Omissions:
Forward-Paul Pierce-Boston Celtics
Guard/Forward-Vince Carter
Forward-Gerald Wallace-Charlotte Bobcats
Guard-Jose Calderon-Toronto Raptors

Well those are the 2008 Crossover Hoop All-Stars. Hope you enjoyed reading my West and East rosters.

COMING SOON!

-Mike's Monthly Fab Five(For January 2008)
-All-Star Weekend Predictions and possibly an All-Star Saturday Night Diary
-Saturday's Trade of the Week(Trade #3)

If I Were a Country of 1 Billion People, My 2008 NBA West All-Stars Would Be:

iaThe third weekend of February is always my favorite weekend of the year. For 3 whole days, I do nothing but sit back and enjoy the fun of NBA All-Star Weekend. Starting with the Celebrity All-Star game and the Rookie-Sophomore game on Friday Night. Followed up on Saturday with the East and West All-Star team practices, and my favorite event of the weekend, All-Star Saturday Night. The best weekend is finally finished off with the always entertaining All-Star game. Although, this weekend is so fun and enjoyable, I always have my criticisms of certain aspects of the weekend. My biggest criticism, every year, is always, who makes and does not make the All-Star Game. Well here, on Crossover Hoops, I am going to share who would make my All-Star team, if I was voting for an entire country.

I'll start with the always dominate Western Conference All-Stars.

Also note, that when I pick my All-Stars, I don't give a damn, if a players team is playing .700 ball or is playing .200 ball. If a player is having a great individual year, he should be recognized. Even if his team is playing like the New York Knicks.

Starters

Guard-Chris Paul-New Orleans Hornets: Not only is Chris Paul dishing out a career high, 10.5 assists per game, he is also averaging career highs in points, steals, field goal percentage, and free throw percentage. His numbers could not be better, and he deserves to be recognized as a top 3 guard in the west(only trailing Kobe, and 2 time MVP Steve Nash).

Guard-Kobe Bryant-Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe is about to start in his 10th consecutive All-Star game, and he has done everything to deserve it. He is an outstanding player with countless records and individual achievements(Still doesn't have a damn MVP award). He is playing great basketball this year, scoring just under 27.7 points per game(2nd in the league). He has also been playing outstanding defense, and playing great team ball. IMO, he is the best player in the game, and All-Star doesn't even describe Mambas game.

Forward-Carmelo Anthony-Denver Nuggets: I don't no if many people would agree with me on this selection. However, I stand on my decision to have Melo be a starter in the All-Star game. He is an amazing scorer and, has also improved on his rebounding numbers(averaging 7 rebounds per game this year). He is having a great all around season and he should finally be recognized for everything he brings to the table. Although injury may force Carmelo to sit this game out, he performance in his first 40 games, has been definitely deserving of a starting spot on the West squad.

Forward-Carlos Boozer-Utah Jazz: I really wish I could have put Tim Duncan along with the starters. However, his numbers are clearly outdone by those of Carlos Boozer. Boozer is averaging a career high in points(22.51) this year. He has also been shooting great percentages, playing solid defense, and has been pulling down 10+ boards a night. He is a great PF, and clearly has many more All-Star appearances in his future.

Center-Marcus Camby-Denver Nuggets: The second All-Star from mile high city in the starting 5, and although Yao and Amare are playing terrific basketball, Camby is playing outstanding all around basketball. He has had 2 games this year with 10+ blocks. He also has 9 20+ rebound games, the most in the NBA so far this season. He is a defensive player of the year candidate, and has been playing some of the best basketball of his career this year.

Bench

Guard-Baron Davis-Golden State Warriors: Having arguably his best NBA season in his 9 year career, B-Diddy is playing phenomenal basketball right now. Considered a top 10 MVP candidate by some, Davis has been a terrific scorer, facilitator, and defender this year. He has had a variety of outstanding games this year, including 2 triple doubles, a 40 point explosion vs Chicago, and a very impressive 20 point-19 assist performance in a victory over the Grizzlies. With the way B-Diddy has been playing this year, he deserves a spot on the west squad without question.

Guard-Steve Nash-Phoenix Suns: Although the two time MVP is getting the least amount of recognition in his 4th year in Phoenix, it doesn't mean his game has slowed down at all. Nash has still been playing at an MVP level averaging a league best 11.9 assists per game this year, Nash is on pace to have another 50-40-90 season. Nash is an outstanding player and could be argued as a top 5 player. In 44 games this year Nash has 13 games with 15 or more assists.

Forward-Dirk Nowitzki-Dallas Mavericks: Although Dirk is one of my least favorite players, and I think he is overrated, he is still a great player. He deserves All-Star recognition, because he's an All-Star player. Although his averages this year, 22.3 points, and 8.6 rebounds aren't as good as last year, he is still at his career average, which is very good. Dirk is an outstanding player, but it wouldn't hurt him to play some defense, and become more of a rebounder/shot blocker.

Forward-Tim Duncan-San Antonio Spurs: Timmy D's numbers may be down, but he's still one of the 5 best players in the game. He's all-around impact in games has been there since his rookie year, and he continues to play great basketball. With averages of 19.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks, Duncan is still an All-Star. He may not be a starter, but he is definitely a All-Star. Look for his numbers to improve along the rest of the season.

Center-Yao Ming: Houston Rockets: Another player I think gets more credit than he deserves, Yao Ming. He is for sure apart of the 12 players who makes this team, but he's not a starter. Because Yao Ming missed action for 29 games last year, this year is showing to be his best yet, in his 6 year NBA career. Averaging career highs in rebounds, 10.7, and blocked shots, 2.3, he is worthy of being apart of the 12 West All-Stars.

Guard-Allen Iverson-Denver Nuggets: Becoming the third Nugget on this roster, Iverson is having one of the best seasons of his career. His points and assists are great, however, those are not the stats that urged me to put him on the squad(Although they did help). The stat I am looking at, is 45.4%. Which is A.I.'s FG% this season. That is his highest shooting percentage since his second year in the league, in which he shot 46% from the field. As a long time fan of The Answer, it is great to see him improving a part of his game, that has been for so long, criticized.

Center-Amare Stoudemire-Phoenix Suns: If Amare was on any other team, he'd be averaging close to 30 points a game. However, since he is on the Phoenix Suns, he can average 22.7 a game, and still be considered a great player, and of course, an All-Star. He may have just barely made the cut, but he deserves it. He is shooting a career high 58.9% from the field, and blocking a career high, 2.2 blocks per game. He is just going to keep getting better, and he will be a All-Star for years to come.

Painful Omissions:
Center-Chris Kaman-Los Angeles Clippers
Forward/Guard-Josh Howard-Dallas Mavericks
Forward/Guard-Stephen Jackson-Golden State Warriors
Guard-Deron Williams-Utah Jazz

And there you have, my 2008 Western Conference All-Stars. My East All-Stars should be posted within the next 24 hours.

Hope you enjoyed my picks.

Also, Fab Five of the Month, for the month of January is coming out tomorrow, or on Thursday, remember to check that out!

Trade Idea of the Week: Trade #2

Here is trade #2 for my weekly trade idea post.

This weeks trade involves the Seattle Supersonics and the Sacramento Kings. Sacramento finally ships out Bibby and in return gets some quality players to fill needed holes.

The Trade:

The Sacramento Kings trade point guard Mike Bibby and center Spencer Hawes to the Seattle Supersonics for point guard Luke Ridnour, forward/center Chris Wilcox, and center Robert Swift.

WHY THE TRADE HELPS SACRAMENTO:

Sacramento finally ships Mike Bibby out of Sac-town, and in return gets 2 players who fill holes, much needed to be filled by this young Sacramento King team. Ridnour, who is in his 5th year, is a solid floor general, a good defender, and a above average passer. His shooting percentages may not be great, but he will be a good replacement of Bibby, and could be a key factor for the Kings hunt to become playoff contenders once again. The addition of big man Chris Wilcox is also a huge pick up for the Kings. At 6'10, Wilcox is an outstanding scorer and rebounder. He also brings a great deal of toughness to the Kings front line, which besides Ron Artest, has very minimal toughness. Robert Swift, at this point, is a long way away from being a huge contributer to the Kings, but could be a solid backup or even starter in a few years.


WHY THIS TRADE HELPS SEATTLE:

Although it hurts Seattle losing their big man, Chris Wilcox. They still get a good amount of quality in Bibby and Hawes. With the addition of Mike Bibby, the Sonics get a true, veteran leader. He has tons of playoff experience and aside from being a great floor general, he is an excellent scorer. Bibby will be a leader here, and a fantastic catalyst in the growth of budding superstar, Kevin Durant. The other addition to the team, hometown boy, Spencer Hawes, is a very young, very promising center. He will surely be apart of the Sonics future, and with his uncanny post skills, he should help round out their starting five, with the likely departure of Kurt Thomas in the offseason.

After completion of this trade, here is what the depth charts of both teams might look like.

Sacramento:

PG-Luke Ridnour-Beno Udrih-Quincy Douby
SG-Kevin Martin-John Salmons-Dahntay Jones
SF-Ron Artest-Francisco Garcia
PF-Chris Wilcox-Shareef Abdur-Rahim-Kenny Thomas
C-Brad Miller-Mikki Moore-Robert Swift-Justin Williams

Seattle:

PG-Mike Bibby-Earl Watson
SG-Delonte West-Wally Szczerbiak
SF-Kevin Durant-Damien Wilkins-Mickael Gelabale
PF-Jeff Green-Nick Collison-Johan Petro
C-Kurt Thomas-Spencer Hawes-Mohammed Sene

The link to the trade is here:

http://games.espn.go.com/nba/features/traderesult?players=61~3211~1985~2416~1731&teams=25~25~23~23~23

07-08 NBA Midseason Predictions

MVP: Chris Paul-PG-New Orleans Hornets: As a die hard Laker fan, who bleeds purple and gold, I would want nothing more than to see Kobe holding his first ever Maurice Podoloff trophy. However, with the recent, and devastating injuries to big man, Andrew Bynum, and key bench player, Trevor Ariza, I do not see my Lakers finishing among the top 4 in the West. So, my MVP prediction is, the 23 year old point guard for the New Orleans Hornets, Chris Paul, to win the award. Leading his team to a Western Conference best, 29-12(as of January 23), CP3 also has impressive averages of 21.1ppg(leading his team), 10.4apg(3rd in the league), and 2.7spg(leading the league). All career highs. He is also shooting career bests from the field(48.9%), the charity stripe(88.4), and from behind the arc(36.0%). After the Hornets first 41 games of play, Chris Paul has shown, better than every other player in this league, why he deserves the Most Valuable Player Award, for the 2007-2008 season.
Runner Up-Kobe Bryant-G-Los Angeles Lakers

Defensive Player of the Year: Kevin Garnett-PF-Boston Celtics: Yes, yes, yes. I know Camby has been having outstanding defensive games statistically this month. However, overall, Garnett's importance to the Celtics defense(holding opponents to a league best 41.57 fg%, and only allowing 87.4 points per contest. ) Camby on the other hand has yet to single handedly turn a poor defensive team in to a great one. Camby may be averaging career highs in 2 out of 3 major defensive statistics(defensive rebounds per game(11.2) and blocks per game(3.9)). However, KG's overall defensive presence is much louder than Camby's. Garnett has averages of 7.7 defensive rebounds per game, 1.4 steals per game, and 1.4 blocks per game. Garnett has also held offensive threats, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, and Pau Gasol, all well under their season averages.
Runner Up-Marcus Camby-C-Denver Nuggets

Rookie of the Year: Kevin Durant-F-Seattle Supersonics: Being drafted is a pivotal day in a NBA players career. Going #2 in the the draft is one of the greatest memories an NBA player will ever have. Being asked to be your club's number one scorer, leader, and franchise guy, before you even play a game, might be a "little" nerve racking for most 19 year olds. That clearly has not been the case for 19 year old Kevin Durant. KD35 has been most impressive in his first 41 games as an NBA rook. His shooting percentage(40.4%) may not be great, but in time it will get much better. Kevin, in 32.9 minutes per game, is averaging 19.4 points(first among qualified rookies), 4.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.10 blocks(5th among qualified rookies) per contest. He is also shooting a very respectable 86.2% from the foul line, which is third among qualified rookies. Judging Durant on his poor FG% is completely unfair. He is taking 17.2 field goal attempts per game. The most since superstar LeBron James took 18.9 per game, for a 41.7 FG% in his 03-04 rookie season. He is also, only committing 1.4 fouls per game. Which out of 13 qualified rookies, is 11th. This shows a lot of potential on the defensive end for Durant, because it shows he knows where to play on defense and how to not pick up silly fouls, like most rookies do. Expect amazing things from this kid, he is bound for super stardom.
Runner Up-Al Horford-C-Atlanta Hawks

Sixth Man of the Year: Wally Szczerbiak-G/F-Seattle Supersonics: *NOTE*The past two years, both players who won this award played over 30 minutes per game(Mike Miller and Leandro Barbosa). I know, they hardly started any games, but if you play 30 minutes per game, ideally, you shouldn't be considered a bench player. So for my pick, I am dropping the top 2 leading candidates, Ginobili, and Barbosa, because I do not consider them "bench players" Instead, to be picked by me for this award, you cannot average more than 27 minutes per game, because it is not fair to the bench players who get almost as much done, in much less PT.
Now, onto why, I picked Wally's World, as my 07-08 NBA Sixth Man of the Year. While starting only 1 out of his teams first 42 games, he is averaging 13.3 points per game, in only 23.2 minutes per game. Wally is also shooting 46.4% from the field, 41.4% from behind the arc, and 84.5% from the foul line. Out of his 42 games played he has scored in double figures 27 times. After battling injuries for 3 out of the past 5 seasons, Wally has finally gotten healthy, and has managed to maintain great, consistent play off the bench for the Sonics.
Runner Up-Travis Outlaw-SF-Portland Trail Blazers

Most Improved Player of the Year Award: Chris Kaman-C-L.A. Clippers: If Lakers center, Andrew Bynum, had not been sideline with a knee injury for the next 8 weeks, he would be on here. Unfortunately, he will be out of action for a while, so I have to put someone else here. Who better than should-be-All Star, Chris Kaman. While averaging career highs in, points(17.4), rebounds(13.9), blocks(3.1), minutes(39.2), and assists(1.9), Kaman has shown why he is a top 5 center in the league today. If Kaman keeps up his play, there is no way he shouldn't win this award.
Runner Up-Richard Jefferson-SF-New Jersey Nets

Coach of the Year: Nate McMillan-Portland Trail Blazers: This is the obvious choice here. With 25 wins, a 13 game winning streak, and 16-8 conference record(REMEMBER THEY ARE IN THE WEST), already under his belt, McMillan has shown, that even when the chips are down, there is no reason to give up. When most people didn't think this team had a chance of winning 25 games this entire season, the Blazers did it in half a season. Nate McMillan has coached this surprising, young team(the youngest in the NBA), to a terrific record, even without their future star center, Greg Oden, and they have done it convincingly. No more words here, this matter is closed.
Runner Up-Byron Scott-New Orleans Hornets

All-NBA First Team
G-Kobe Bryant
G-Chris Paul
F-LeBron James
F-Kevin Garnett
C-Dwight Howard

All-NBA Second Team
G-Steve Nash
G-Allen Iverson
F-Carmelo Anthony
F-Tim Duncan
C-Marcus Camby

All-NBA Third Team
G-Baron Davis
G-Dwyane Wade
F-Carlos Boozer
F-Dirk Nowitzki
C-Yao Ming

All-Defensive First Team
G-Chauncey Billups
G-Kobe Bryant
F-Kevin Garnett
F-Shawn Marion
C-Marcus Camby

All-Defensive Second Team
G-Chris Paul
G-Allen Iverson
F-Bruce Bowen
F-Caron Butler
C-Dwight Howard

All-Rookie First Team
G-Mike Conley
G-Juan Carlos Navarro
F-Kevin Durant
F-Sean Williams
C-Al Horford

All-Rookie Second Team
G-Daequan Cook
G-Jeff Green
F-Jamario Moon
F-Yi Jianlian
C-Glen Davis

West Champs: Phoenix Suns
East Champs: Boston Celtics

NBA Champs: Boston Celtics

Trade Idea of the Week: Trade #1

ESPN.com has put out a very addicting drug for NBA Fans. It's called the 'Trade Checker', and it has been around for around 2 years. Trade Machine is a great way for NBA fans, to create their fantasized trades. It's a great simulator, and for some, it could keep you busy for quite some time. Starting today, Saturday, January 19, 2008, I am going to be posting a new trade idea, using ESPN.com's NBA Trade Machine, every Saturday. The trades will not be ridiculous, or never-gunna-happen scenarios. The trades will involve players who are, at the time, being discussed in trade ideas.

Here is the first of many trades, for my weekly Trade Idea Post.

This week's trade involves the Chicago Bulls and Memphis Grizzlies. In this trade scenario, they finally complete the Gasol-to-Bulls trade that has been talked about for almost a year.

games.espn.go.com/nba/features/traderesult?players=130~996~2794~3032~885&teams=4~4~4~29~29&te=&cash=

THE TRADE:

The Chicago Bulls trades C Ben Wallace and F Tryus Thomas to the Memphis Grizzlies for C/F Pau Gasol, F Hakim Warrick, and F Brian Cardinal.

WHY THE TRADE WORKS FOR CHICAGO:

Chicago gets a dominate low post scorer, a good rebounder, and a great leader in Pau Gasol. They also pick up Hakim Warrick, a freakishly athletic PF, who plays good offense and defense. They also get Brian Cardinal, who was merely a throw in, to make the salaries match.

WHY THE TRADE WORKS FOR MEMPHIS:

Memphis adds Ben Wallace and Tyrus Thomas to their front court, giving them more depth up front. Ben Wallace will provide good defense and leadership for the quite young Memphis Grizzlies. Tyrus Thomas will fill the PF spot for the Grizzlies, helping Head Coach, Mark Ivaroni, continue to create his imitation Phoenix Suns team, which he assistant coached for before joining Memphis. Thomas is ridiculously athletic and when coached right, will develop into a very good PF.

After the trade is completed, here is a view of the post trade rosters of both teams:

Chicago:
PG-Kirk Hinrich-Chris Duhon-Thabo Sefelosha
SG-Ben Gordon-Adrian Griffin-Demetrius Nichols
SF-Luol Deng-Andres Nocioni-Viktor Khyrapa
PF-Hakim Warrick-Joe Smith-Brian Cardinal
C-Pau Gasol-Joakim Noah-Aaron Gray

Memphis:
PG-Mike Conley-Kyle Lowry
SG-Mike Miller-J.Carlos Navarro-Casey Jacobsen
SF-Rudy Gay-Bobby Jones
PF-Tyrus Thomas-Stromile Swift-Andre Brown
C-Ben Wallace-Darko Millic

And that is Trade Idea #1. Check back next Saturday for trade idea #2.

ARE THEY SERIOUS? EIGHT WEEKS?

It was January 13, 2008, and the Lakers are matched up against Memphis at Staples. Its a little past the 9 minute mark in the 3rd quarter and all I remember seeing, is Andrew Bynum, the Laker's center, the Laker's future, the Laker's 2nd best player hit the deck. He was in obvious pain, and the first thing I said when I saw him curled up on the ground was, "oh my god, it's happening again". I was in disbelief as I saw the 20 year old Andrew Bynum carried off the court into the locker room, clutching his knee. About 45 minutes later, I hear good news that Bynum's knee injury was not that serious, and he should be fine. I think to myself, "Thank god, I can sleep tonight". I go to school, just like a normal day, check to see any updates on RealGM.com, and ESPN.com. Nothing. I get home, first thing I do is check ESPN.com. Under the breaking news section, I see a news report that destroyed the next eight weeks of my life, "Bynum to miss 8 weeks with injured knee cap". I am speechless. Thoughts of the 2005, 2006, and 2007 Laker seasons are just flowing through my mind. This cannot be happening for a 4th straight year! I yell in horror of the thought of how the Laker's playing will be affected by is 8 week loss. Not only his he one of, if not my favorite player, he is my teams future, their center, their 2nd best player. We need him to do what Kwame was suppose to be doing for the past 2 years, which he was. He was consistently getting a double double, and playing great basketball, leading us to a at that time, 23-11 record. However, we managed to win that game by just a hair, and we somehow slipped by a dreadful Sonics team, in overtime. I don't think the game versus Phoenix on Thursday will be any easier. These next 8 weeks will be extremely painful for the Lakers, and us Laker fans, unless Kwame, Ronny Turiaf, and hopefully the eventual signing of Chris Webber, PJ Brown, or DJ Mebenga, can step up and fill the ginourmous presence Andrew gives off every game. Good luck, Lakers, and get well soon Andrew, everyone associated with the Lakers is waiting for your return. Just don't rush it, our future is important too!

Fixing The Knicks

For the past several years, the New York Knicks have been an embarrassment to the NBA. This is because of the mess Hall of Fame Piston Guard Isaiah Thomas has made of the Knicks, during his time as GM and Head Coach. In a little over 4 short years, Isaiah Thomas has managed to turn this once respected franchise, into the laughing stock of the NBA. In an attempt to guide the Knicks to a title, Thomas completed trade after trade for overpaid, overrated, and unproven NBA players. Players like Stephon Marbury, Eddy Curry, Zach Randolph, Jamal Crawford, Quentin Richardson, Malik Rose, and Steve Francis. He also managed to sign problematic Jerome James to a 5 year 30 million dollar contract, which was based off his mediocre play in the 04-05 playoffs with the Seattle Supersonics. In his 2 1/2 years with the Knicks he has only appeared in 86 out of a possible 164 games. He has yet to play 1 minute in the 07-08 season. Isaiah also signed Jared Jefferies, an athletic, but unproven combo forward to another 5 year 30+ million dollar contract. To go along with all the bad trades and free-agent signings he has made, he also managed to trade away the teams 05 and 06 first round draft picks. Both of which ended up being lottery picks in drafts that could have helped the Knicks. Now, I am not saying every player Isaiah Thomas has picked up is worthless. The majority of them are, but there are still a few players who the Knicks should be molding there future around. Players like David Lee, who is a hard worker, and a fan favorite. He was also one of the first players in a very long time to average a double double, while being a bench player. Other players include, Nate Robinson, a fiery 5'8 scoring point guard who provides tons of energy off the bench. Renaldo Balkman, a very good, very young, defensive minded player, who rebounds the ball extremely well for his size. Zach Randolph and Jamal Crawford also aren't bad assets to the team, but Isaiah has to decide who he wants in his back court and front court. Marbury or Crawford? Randolph or Curry? Those 4 players are to similar to all have on the same team. Marbury and Crawford are both ineffective players if the ball is not in their hands. Curry and Randolph are both great post players. However, having them both in your front court is just a recipe for disaster since each of them are large enough to cover the entire key by themselves. I say dump Marbury for whatever they can get, and trade Curry for a solid, young, play making point guard, who can create shots for Crawford, Lee, and Randolph. Once Knicks owner, James Dolan, starts to realize that Isaiah is running this team straight to hell, hopefully he will bring in new staff that can begin a repairing process of the New York Knicks. For the Knicks future to be better, Isaiah cannot be in the picture. Players need to be bought out and traded. Draft picks and expiring contracts need to be acquired. Skilled player developers and experienced coaches need to be hired. This will all take time, but Dolan has the money and the power to make it happen soon. All we need to hear is three words. "Isaiah, you're fired!"

War of the Worst

As of Sunday, January 6th, There are still 4 teams left in the NBA yet to reach at least 10 wins. Those 4 teams being, Minnesota(4-29), Seattle(9-24), Miami(8-26), and New York(8-24). Those 4 bottom dwellers have a combined 29-103 record. Now Minnesota and Seattle both were predicted to be the worst of the west due to complete roster makeovers. However, Miami and New York both teams containing multiple star players were expected to do much better, record wise. Yes, injuries have hampered Miami to start the season, so as players return, they SHOULD do better. However, it is most unlikely, with Dwyane Wade and Shaq being injury prone players, that they will be able to play good on a consistent basis this year, after starting off so horribly. New York's situation has been a total and complete disaster. From Knick Fans initiating parades to attempt to chase Isaiah out of town, to the MSG lawsuit, to the every day drama of Stephon Marbury, it seems impossible for this drama filled Knicks squad to catch a break this year. Now, it comes to who is the worst out of these 4 teams. I truly believe, that New York has no chance of being good anytime soon, or as long as Isaiah has a job with the Knicks. So as of now, I tag the New York Knicks, once a praised franchise, as the worst, most embarassing team this league has to showcase.