By Brendan Hall
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The NBA Draft was full of predictability at the top, and chaos the rest of the way down. Here's my winners and losers:
WINNERS
Blake Griffin
His knees are intact. And whether or not the Clips' medical staff screws up another pair, the big man out of Oklahoma gets his pay day. Game, set...match.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Their draft picks, to be blunt, were duds. But by making a trade for Shaquille O'Neal, they are sending a clear message to the rest of the league. No longer will they be let down by Anderson Varejao and Zydrunas Ilgauskas -- they're going to be one of the league's most physical teams. Even at 38 years old, Shaq can still put in some solid minutes.
Golden State Warriors
You have to envy Don Nelson's situation right now. On June 25, the Warriors traded Jamal Crawford to the Atlanta Hawks for Acie Law and Speedy Claxton; they followed up by drafting run-and-gun Stephen Curry -- a guy whom the run-and-gun Knicks had been salivating over for weeks. Now, Nellie's starting five looks like this: Monta Ellis, Corey Maggette, Stephen Jackson, Anthony Randolph and Andris Biedrins. That's a big lineup that perfectly fits his style.
Off the bench, you have one of the class's best pure scorers (Curry), two reliable backup point guards (Claxton and Law), long-range shooting (Marco Belinelli) and reliable frontcourt bodies (Ronny Turiaf, Jermareo Davidson). Rumors have circulated about Curry going to the Suns in a deal for Amare Stoudemire, but I say to heck with it.
San Antonio Spurs
Once again, the Spurs thrived by picking up some of the draft's most underrated prospects. Last year, it was Roger Mason. This year, its Pitt's DeJuan Blair, who fell all the way to the second round after being rated as a lottery pick in some circles. His Big Baby-like game will give them a boost. Jack McClinton was one of the NCAA's deadlist shooters, and Nano De Colo will be the umpteenth "development" player to contribute nicely.
Lester Hudson
For the unheralded UT-Martin combo guard to get to this point is a story in itself. Coming from one of the nastiest neighborhoods in Memphis, he had the SEC and Memphis looking into him, but was unable to qualify academically -- check that, he didn't even graduate high school. Instead, he earned his GED in his first semester of junior college, but after two years he couldn't find anybody but UTM to take a chance on his 2.5 GPA. But the man is a scoring savant, registering over 1600 points in just two seasons and leading the nation in scoring average (27.5).
Now, he takes this feel-good comeback story to Boston, where the Celtics might have uncovered a hidden gem. How he fell to them at 58 is a quandary, and now he has the chance to disprove those doubters.
Memphis Grizzlies
For once, the Grizz played it smart. GM Chris Wallace decided to stay put, not trade the No. 2 pick, not play ball with Ricky Rubio's posse, and draft the most gifted shot-blocker since Dikembe Mutombo. Now their starting five looks like this: Mike Conley Jr., OJ Mayo, Rudy Gay, Marc Gasol, Hasheem Thabeet. This is like the 06-07 Celtics without veteran leadership, but without a missing piece. Missouri gunner DeMarre Carroll was a nice late-round pickup, too.
Portland Trail Blazers
Jon Brockman has toughness issues, but the Blazers get a nod here for picking up the steal of the draft, St. Mary's point guard Patrick Mills. How the HELL did this guy fall to 55? They also freshened their Spanish pipeline -- and cemented their rep as the Spurs of the Pacific Northwest -- with their pick of Spanish shooter Victor Claver. The 6-foot-9 Spaniard is expected to stay overseas, but could make an impact in a year or two on an already deep bench.
LOSERS
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Ricky Rubio gamble is already backfiring; the Spanish point guard prodigy was a no-show at the team's introductory press conference, and it appears that Rubio might stay in Spain a few more years. So now they are stuck with Wayne Ellington, a Dutch guy who isn't ready for the NBA, and Jonny Flynn. If they manage to pull Rubio into Minneapolis, expect Flynn -- who I think would have challenged for the No. 1 spot if he wasn't 5-11 -- to be traded. And that would be a shame.
New York Knicks
The Knicks wanted Stephen Curry so bad they could taste it. So when the Warriors swooped in and stole their thunder, they responded by picking up...Jordan Hill? The 6-foot-10 underachiever from Arizona whom everyone labeled as "raw"?
Detroit Pistons
This is a turning point in the Pistons' propped-up "Dumars is a genius" bravado. First, it was Darko Milicic. Then, it was the Iverson trade and hiring Dumars' buddy Michael Curry to run the team into the ground. Now, we have this: three prospects with questions about their toughness on a franchise notorious for a bruising style of play. Austin Daye is nice, but at 195 pounds he needs to put on serious muscle if he wants to bang with the big boys. DaJuan Summers is not quick enough to defend on the perimeter, and Jonas Jerebko needs to develop his perimeter game to be effective.
Sacramento Kings
The one franchise that could play ball with Ricky Rubio's buyout clause decided to play it safe, for reasons I don't understand. They're going to get a nice player in Tyreke Evans, who will go on to enjoy a nice career in the NBA. But I'm of the camp that if you're a perennial loser, you've got to roll the dice because you have nothing to lose. If you lose, you still suck. If you win, and Rubio turns out down the line to be the European Maravich, then you're labeled a "genius".
Charlotte Bobcats
Really? You have the 12th pick, and you waste it on Gerald Henderson? Derrick Brown has an unconventional release that might actually work in a league where Kevin Martin is the face of a dwindling franchise, and Robert Vaden is the Bobcats' next "project" player (man, do I hate that term), but there were so many better players available at No. 12.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Beckett dominant again against Braves
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Josh Beckett has been dealing yet again as the Boston Red Sox beat the Atlanta Braves 4-1 down in Georgia. It doesn't hurt he took to the bump against an organization he's now 6-0 in his last 7 starts. In the past month, Josh Beckett is 5-1 with a 1.48 ERA, 0.84 WHIP and 43 K's. With the exception of that one clunker against the Phillies, he's been extremely dominant and looks like the '07 Josh Beckett. Add in the fact that Jon Lester is 3-1 with a 2.18 ERA, 0.91 WHIP and 44 K's and you have one of the best 1-2 tandems in baseball. Don't forget about Tim Wakefield's 9-3 record on route to what should be his first All Star game.
Realistically, the Boston Red Sox are built around pitching. They have very good starting pitching, with great depth in AAA. They also have the most consistent bullpen in the majors with the likes Jonathon Papelbon, Hideki Okajima, Ramon Ramirez & Manny Delcarmen. All four of those relievers have an ERA under 2.50.
The secondary story of the game was the continued resurgence of David "Big Papi" Ortiz. He hit his 8th homer of the season last night and 7th of the month. While I may not be 100% ready to say he's back to a lesser version of his old self, I will say that I am getting close. His average is still only .269 with a .333 OBP. His slugging is .590 with an OPS of .923. Both are very respectable. He has been able to cut down on his strike outs. He does have 15 K's in 20 games in June, but compare that to May where he struck out 26 times. Big Papi is making me look terribly wrong for saying his career was over, but I don't think it's a coincidence his resurgence starting about the time he started taking those eye drops. Ortiz had been complaining about blinking too much at the plate, and the eye drops seem to have stopped that. Hitting, and confidence at the plate, is such a fragile thing even for a professional. I guess we'll just have to wait and see how he progress throughout the season.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Fantasy Baseball: Frozen Ropes
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Welcome back to the Friday FFS Fantasy Baseball article. This week's top 5 performers sees 3 players who are pretty much in the top 5 for season rankings.
The Good:
1. Hanley Ramirez - Florida Marlins .435, 3 HR, 13 RBI, 7 R, 2 SB
13 RBI in a week? Are you kidding me. What an amazing week for one of the most talented players in all of baseball. The Marlins did the right thing by moving him down to 3rd in the order this year. He's rewarded them with driving in 47 runs already this season.
2. Albert Pujols - St. Louis Cardinals .360, 3, 12, 5, 0
Albert Pujols has been imploring people to believe in him that he's never used PED's. While I wouldn't be surprised if he did them, I guess we'll give him the benefit of doubt for now. Regardless, he's still one of the best hitters in the game and a sure fire hall of famer. He's on pace for 50+ home runs and 140 RBI. Talk about a complete hitter
3. Justin Upton - Arizona Diamondbacks .435, 2, 6, 7, 1
The younger Upton continues his breakout season. On the season he's hitting .325, 14, 45, 47, 10 and is the 17th ranked player in fantasy baseball. He seems to have finally put it all together and will turn 23 in August. Wow. The Diamondbacks have got to be beside themselves with the talent he brings. I think he's finally arrived so look for him to have a great season
4. Troy Tulowitzki - Colorado Rockies .474, 3, 5, 8, 0
It's nice to see Tulo playing well again. He had a terrible start to the season, but has been fantastic the past month. It seems like he's finally gotten back to where he was his rookie season. He has great potential, so watch out for him the rest of the way.
5. Miguel Cabrera - Detroit Tigers .458, 3, 5, 7, 0
Miggy has been on fire of late, and this week is no different. Much like Pujols, he's a complete hitter who can hit for average, power and drive in runs.
The Bad:
1. Alex Rios - Toronto Blue Jays .160, 0, 3, 3, 0
After a brief stint as one the hotter players in the league, he's once again dropped back into a slump. He's way to inconsistent for me. That's why I stay away from him
2. Matt Holiday - Oakland A's .217, o, 1, 3, 2
In anticipation of another pending trade, Big Matt has gone into a slump. While I don't know if that's the reason, there's no doubt he could be on the move. It will be very interesting where he goes because of the potential ballpark he'll be playing in.
3. Rick Ankeil - St. Louis Cardinals .179, 1, 2, 6, 0
Rick has struggled since he came of the DL. He'll never hit for average, but his power should return. I wouldn't upgrade or downgrade his value too much. He should be back to normal in a week. If he does continue to struggle, he will lost playing time though.
4. Tori Hunter - Anahiem Angels .190, o, 3, 2, 1
So what, Tori's in a slump. He's been very consistent since signing with the Angels. Don't worry too much about him. Just ride the slump out. At least Big Vlad is hitting the ball right now
5. Rafael Furcal - LA Dodgers .217, 1, 2, 2, 0
As a Dodgers fan, he's frustrated me all season. As a fantasy "guru" he's frustrated me all season. I thought he was poised for a very good year after entering the season healthy. So far, I've been wrong. Luckily he hasn't been killing the Dodgers lineup. What's he doing to your fantasy lineup though?
Under the Radar:
I have been fantasy fan of Willie Harris for three years. He's not great, but he offers positional flexibility. He's a decent guy to have on the bench and is getting a ton of playing time with the Nationals right now. If you have a spot on your bench, take a flyer on him. If you're in search of a catcher, why not look for Miguel Oliva. He has 11 homers on the year and hit .276 with 8 homers and 16 RBI the past month. Pablo Sandoval and Victor Martinez are the only two fantasy catchers with better numbers during that time. In the past month, Ian Stewart is the 5th rated fantasy 2nd baseman and 6th ranked 3rd baseman in fantasy baseball. He's also owned in only 44% of leagues. If you need a solid middle infielder, check out if Asdrubal Cabrera is available. He will be activated from the DL on Saturday and is only owned in 55% of leagues. Despite the fact that Chris Davis has been better at the plate, keep an eye on the Rangers to see if they call up Justin Smoak. He's absolutely tearing it up in AA.
FFS T-shirt giveaway contest
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
It's about time we unveil our latest contest for our readers. We would like to test our readers knowledge of the Fan Fanatic Sports site. Below is a 5 question quiz about the site. The first 5 readers who e-mail jjingram@bu.edu with the correct answers will receive a Fan Fanatic Sports T-shirt. Please include your mailing address and t-shirt size in your e-mail.
Fan Fanatic Sports Quiz:
1. What former FFS staff writer posted his resignation?
2. What is Ryan Durand's favorite video game?
3. What Detroit Tigers pitcher has Chad Garner been ripping of late?
4. Who were Jim Ingram's preseason picks as the AL & NL Rookie of the Year.
5. What ESPN analyst did Jim Ingram go to high school with?
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Big Red's Mock Draft: First Round
By Brendan Hall
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Many of the experts are calling tonight's NBA Draft class one of the weakest in memory. At the top, there are a handful of solid, potential future NBA All-Stars (i.e., Blake Griffin); but the rest of the way down, this is a class chock-full of guys who pretty much did everything except prove they're NBA-ready (B.J. Mullens, Nick Calathes...are you out of your mind?). Plenty of questions are abound overseas about whether Brandon Jennings is worth the gamble, and if Ricky Rubio's posse will put the $8 million pricetag on him as rumored.
Here's how the first ten picks should play out.
1. Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
Feel free to differ here, but there have been two consensus no-brainers in the last 12 years: LeBron James and Tim Duncan. Griffin, who has drawn comparisons to Karl Malone and is easily the most hardened and battle-tested player in this draft. Of course, Donald Sterling will find a way to screw this up.
2. Memphis Grizzlies - Hasheem Thabeet, UConn
How the Grizz handle this draft pick will have a domino effect on the rest of the picks. The biggest question is whether Ricky Rubio goes here or not. His management has threatened to stamp him with an $8 million buyout if Memphis picks him; Pau Gasol speaks negatively of his time with Memphis, and keep in mind Pau is as popular as Nadal back home. When Yao Ming was entering the draft, Chinese officials warned the league that there would be complications in getting him overseas if he were taken by Memphis or Milwaukee.
Besides, they already have a solid point guard in Mike Conley, Jr., and a solid nucleus in Marc Gasol, Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo. Thabeet, the most gifted shot-blocker since Dikembe Mutombo, could be the final piece of this puzzle. For now.
3. Oklahoma City Scumbags - DeMar DeRozan, USC
With Thabeet off the board, the Two-Timers are going to take the best pure scorer available at this position. He's no OJ Mayo, but teaming up alongside Jeff Green and Kevin Durant would create yet another solid nucleus on the verge of breaking through.
4. Sacramento Kings - Ricky Rubio, Spain
If there's a hefty buyout for this dude, expect the Maloof brothers to play ball. They are Vegas high-rollers, after all. This would be a great opportunity for the Spanish point guard "prodigy" to prove his mettle alongside veteran Andres Nocioni, up-and-comer Jason Thompson, and two-guard Kevin Martin, he of the most unorthodox yet efficient jumper in the league. There's alot of raw, scrappy talent in this organization; what Rubio can do to make them better will tell you what kind of future he has in the states.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves - Tyreke Evans, Memphis
At first glance, yesterday's trade of Mike Miller and Randy Foye to the Wizards seemed perplexing. But looking at it again, it makes plenty of sense. They get the expiring contracts of Darius Songaila, Oleksiy Pecherov and Etan "Harlem Renaissance" Thomas, and the Wizards' fifth pick. Look for them to use it to fill their biggest void right now -- point guard. With the talent in the frontcourt (Al Jefferson, Kevin Love and Corey Brewer), Evans is a scoring point guard who can cause all sorts of havoc off the dribble.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - DeJuan Blair, Pitt
The girthy big man has drawn all sorts of comparisons, but I think he most closely resembles Glen Davis. Undersized, wide-bodied, and an all-out scrapper who fights for those inches. His clown-suiting of Thabeet this year is still fresh in my mind.
7. Golden State Warriors - James Harden, Arizona St.
We're entering year four of Nellyball Part Deux in Oakland, and nothing's really changed. The Warriors thrive when their guards are playing at a frenetic pace, but the one thing they've lacked since the departure of Matt Barnes is a consistent defensive stopper. Look for Harden to try and fill that role here; also look for Harden's addition to light a match under Anthony Randolph, a guy with limitless potential who is on the verge of an explosive breakout season of Monta Ellis proportions, yet is constantly in Nelly's dog house.
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry, Davidson
Mike D'Antoni is salivating over the prospect of coaching this guy. His game screams D'Antoni at jet engine decibels. After three years, we know now that A) this guy can go off for 30 on anybody in the country, B) he can lineup anywhere in the backcourt, and C) he has limits on defense. In D'Antoni's system, there are no limits on defense -- because there is no D required.
9. Toronto Raptors - Jonny Flynn, Syracuse
Arguably one of the most exciting players to watch this past college season, he could serve nicely in Toronto's rotation as the second or third guy off the bench, someone you can throw in late in the game and count on for a clutch three or fast-break drive. He'd serve as a much better backup to Jose Calderon than Marcus "Luis Mendoza" Banks.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Ty Lawson, North Carolina
After yesterday's moves, in which they dumped Richard Jefferson's bloated salary unto San Antonio and picked up Amir Johnson (an absolute steal), Bruce Bowen (still a defensive beast) and Kurt Thomas (meh), the Bucks's most pressing need is at the point. Sure, Ramon Sessions fills the bid here over Damon Jones and Luke Ridnour, but he's far from elite. The rankings say to take Jrue Holiday, the unpolished freshman out of UCLA who underachieved in his first season. But Lawson is faster, steadier, and more mature.
Here's how the rest of the first round should play out
11. New Jersey Nets - Jordan Hill, Arizona
Nets need a guy who can finish around the basket.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson, Duke
Strong guard with great range from the perimeter. Like Clippers, the Bobcats will find a way to screw this up.
13. Indiana Pacers - Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
Upon which he immediately becomes a fan favorite.
14. Phoenix Suns - Terrence Williams, Louisville
Long, lean and underrated. Suns don't need help at the point, but nice to know this versatile forward can play anywhere on the floor.
15. Detroit Pistons - Brandon Jennings, Italy
Joe Dumars has made a living off gambles like this.
16. Chicago Bulls - Earl Clark, Louisville
6-10 forward can play the three or four; could fill a tweener role a la John Salmons.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Eric Maynor, VCU
Sixers need a reliable backup to Andre Miller.
18. Minnesota Timberwolves - Austin Daye, Gonzaga
Sophomore forward adds more raw upside to team already overflowing with it.
19. Atlanta Hawks - B.J. Mullens, Ohio St.
Wouldn't be the first time they've rolled the dice with an unproven one-and-done.
20. Utah Jazz - Darren Collison, UCLA
Combo guard provides depth to a bench that was lacking in the Jazz' first-round exit.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Sam Young, Pitt
Arguably more NBA-ready than Blair, could make an immediate impact.
22. Portland Trail Blazers - Omri Casspi, Israel
Power forward continues Kevin Pritchard's tradition of drafting foreign players.
23. Sacramento Kings - Wayne Ellington, North Carolina
Sharp-shooter will be utilized in a system where Kevin Martin is the alpha dog.
24. Dallas Mavericks - James Johnson, Wake Forest
Versatile forward can make an immediate impact.
25. Oklahoma City Scumbags - Chase Budinger, Arizona
There are many questions about his toughness. In a related story, there are questions abound regarding Clay Bennett's ethics.
26. Chicago Bulls - Marcus Thornton, LSU
If Ben Gordon leaves, they're going to need help in the backcourt.
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Jrue Holiday, UCLA
With the right coaching, this guy could be around for years.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Derrick Brown, Xavier
Wolves pick up yet another athletic swingman.
29. Los Angeles Lakers - Patrick Mills, St. Mary's
Tell me I have Gaels-blinders on, but this kid is going to be a steal for whoever takes him.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Nick Calathes, Florida
Because Danny Ferry would take a soft scrub like this and call himself a "genius" if he ends up averaging 15-20 minutes.
And look for these second-rounders to end up as steals:
Jeff Adrien, UConn
Ahmad Nivins, St. Joseph's
Jermaine Taylor, UCF
Jerel McNeal, Marquette
Jodie Meeks, Kentucky
Jack McClinton, Miami
Taj Gibson, USC
DaJuan Summers, Georgetown
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Many of the experts are calling tonight's NBA Draft class one of the weakest in memory. At the top, there are a handful of solid, potential future NBA All-Stars (i.e., Blake Griffin); but the rest of the way down, this is a class chock-full of guys who pretty much did everything except prove they're NBA-ready (B.J. Mullens, Nick Calathes...are you out of your mind?). Plenty of questions are abound overseas about whether Brandon Jennings is worth the gamble, and if Ricky Rubio's posse will put the $8 million pricetag on him as rumored.
Here's how the first ten picks should play out.
1. Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
Feel free to differ here, but there have been two consensus no-brainers in the last 12 years: LeBron James and Tim Duncan. Griffin, who has drawn comparisons to Karl Malone and is easily the most hardened and battle-tested player in this draft. Of course, Donald Sterling will find a way to screw this up.
2. Memphis Grizzlies - Hasheem Thabeet, UConn
How the Grizz handle this draft pick will have a domino effect on the rest of the picks. The biggest question is whether Ricky Rubio goes here or not. His management has threatened to stamp him with an $8 million buyout if Memphis picks him; Pau Gasol speaks negatively of his time with Memphis, and keep in mind Pau is as popular as Nadal back home. When Yao Ming was entering the draft, Chinese officials warned the league that there would be complications in getting him overseas if he were taken by Memphis or Milwaukee.
Besides, they already have a solid point guard in Mike Conley, Jr., and a solid nucleus in Marc Gasol, Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo. Thabeet, the most gifted shot-blocker since Dikembe Mutombo, could be the final piece of this puzzle. For now.
3. Oklahoma City Scumbags - DeMar DeRozan, USC
With Thabeet off the board, the Two-Timers are going to take the best pure scorer available at this position. He's no OJ Mayo, but teaming up alongside Jeff Green and Kevin Durant would create yet another solid nucleus on the verge of breaking through.
4. Sacramento Kings - Ricky Rubio, Spain
If there's a hefty buyout for this dude, expect the Maloof brothers to play ball. They are Vegas high-rollers, after all. This would be a great opportunity for the Spanish point guard "prodigy" to prove his mettle alongside veteran Andres Nocioni, up-and-comer Jason Thompson, and two-guard Kevin Martin, he of the most unorthodox yet efficient jumper in the league. There's alot of raw, scrappy talent in this organization; what Rubio can do to make them better will tell you what kind of future he has in the states.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves - Tyreke Evans, Memphis
At first glance, yesterday's trade of Mike Miller and Randy Foye to the Wizards seemed perplexing. But looking at it again, it makes plenty of sense. They get the expiring contracts of Darius Songaila, Oleksiy Pecherov and Etan "Harlem Renaissance" Thomas, and the Wizards' fifth pick. Look for them to use it to fill their biggest void right now -- point guard. With the talent in the frontcourt (Al Jefferson, Kevin Love and Corey Brewer), Evans is a scoring point guard who can cause all sorts of havoc off the dribble.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - DeJuan Blair, Pitt
The girthy big man has drawn all sorts of comparisons, but I think he most closely resembles Glen Davis. Undersized, wide-bodied, and an all-out scrapper who fights for those inches. His clown-suiting of Thabeet this year is still fresh in my mind.
7. Golden State Warriors - James Harden, Arizona St.
We're entering year four of Nellyball Part Deux in Oakland, and nothing's really changed. The Warriors thrive when their guards are playing at a frenetic pace, but the one thing they've lacked since the departure of Matt Barnes is a consistent defensive stopper. Look for Harden to try and fill that role here; also look for Harden's addition to light a match under Anthony Randolph, a guy with limitless potential who is on the verge of an explosive breakout season of Monta Ellis proportions, yet is constantly in Nelly's dog house.
8. New York Knicks - Stephen Curry, Davidson
Mike D'Antoni is salivating over the prospect of coaching this guy. His game screams D'Antoni at jet engine decibels. After three years, we know now that A) this guy can go off for 30 on anybody in the country, B) he can lineup anywhere in the backcourt, and C) he has limits on defense. In D'Antoni's system, there are no limits on defense -- because there is no D required.
9. Toronto Raptors - Jonny Flynn, Syracuse
Arguably one of the most exciting players to watch this past college season, he could serve nicely in Toronto's rotation as the second or third guy off the bench, someone you can throw in late in the game and count on for a clutch three or fast-break drive. He'd serve as a much better backup to Jose Calderon than Marcus "Luis Mendoza" Banks.
10. Milwaukee Bucks - Ty Lawson, North Carolina
After yesterday's moves, in which they dumped Richard Jefferson's bloated salary unto San Antonio and picked up Amir Johnson (an absolute steal), Bruce Bowen (still a defensive beast) and Kurt Thomas (meh), the Bucks's most pressing need is at the point. Sure, Ramon Sessions fills the bid here over Damon Jones and Luke Ridnour, but he's far from elite. The rankings say to take Jrue Holiday, the unpolished freshman out of UCLA who underachieved in his first season. But Lawson is faster, steadier, and more mature.
Here's how the rest of the first round should play out
11. New Jersey Nets - Jordan Hill, Arizona
Nets need a guy who can finish around the basket.
12. Charlotte Bobcats - Gerald Henderson, Duke
Strong guard with great range from the perimeter. Like Clippers, the Bobcats will find a way to screw this up.
13. Indiana Pacers - Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
Upon which he immediately becomes a fan favorite.
14. Phoenix Suns - Terrence Williams, Louisville
Long, lean and underrated. Suns don't need help at the point, but nice to know this versatile forward can play anywhere on the floor.
15. Detroit Pistons - Brandon Jennings, Italy
Joe Dumars has made a living off gambles like this.
16. Chicago Bulls - Earl Clark, Louisville
6-10 forward can play the three or four; could fill a tweener role a la John Salmons.
17. Philadelphia 76ers - Eric Maynor, VCU
Sixers need a reliable backup to Andre Miller.
18. Minnesota Timberwolves - Austin Daye, Gonzaga
Sophomore forward adds more raw upside to team already overflowing with it.
19. Atlanta Hawks - B.J. Mullens, Ohio St.
Wouldn't be the first time they've rolled the dice with an unproven one-and-done.
20. Utah Jazz - Darren Collison, UCLA
Combo guard provides depth to a bench that was lacking in the Jazz' first-round exit.
21. New Orleans Hornets - Sam Young, Pitt
Arguably more NBA-ready than Blair, could make an immediate impact.
22. Portland Trail Blazers - Omri Casspi, Israel
Power forward continues Kevin Pritchard's tradition of drafting foreign players.
23. Sacramento Kings - Wayne Ellington, North Carolina
Sharp-shooter will be utilized in a system where Kevin Martin is the alpha dog.
24. Dallas Mavericks - James Johnson, Wake Forest
Versatile forward can make an immediate impact.
25. Oklahoma City Scumbags - Chase Budinger, Arizona
There are many questions about his toughness. In a related story, there are questions abound regarding Clay Bennett's ethics.
26. Chicago Bulls - Marcus Thornton, LSU
If Ben Gordon leaves, they're going to need help in the backcourt.
27. Memphis Grizzlies - Jrue Holiday, UCLA
With the right coaching, this guy could be around for years.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves - Derrick Brown, Xavier
Wolves pick up yet another athletic swingman.
29. Los Angeles Lakers - Patrick Mills, St. Mary's
Tell me I have Gaels-blinders on, but this kid is going to be a steal for whoever takes him.
30. Cleveland Cavaliers - Nick Calathes, Florida
Because Danny Ferry would take a soft scrub like this and call himself a "genius" if he ends up averaging 15-20 minutes.
And look for these second-rounders to end up as steals:
Jeff Adrien, UConn
Ahmad Nivins, St. Joseph's
Jermaine Taylor, UCF
Jerel McNeal, Marquette
Jodie Meeks, Kentucky
Jack McClinton, Miami
Taj Gibson, USC
DaJuan Summers, Georgetown
Dempsey, defense sends U.S. to Confed Cup Final
By Jorge Bannister
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Well, this isn’t the last time I will be wrong — I can assure you of that.
In what will be known as quite possibly the darkest day in Spaniard Soccer history, the United States pulled off the previously thought of improbable upset.
The U.S. scored in the 27th minute on a goal by Jozy Altidore, then came out flat in the second half.
It almost cost them the lead until Clint Dempsey got his 15th international goal in the 73rd minute to give the U.S. a two-nil victory over Spain.
For those of you new to the soccer lingo, that’s 2-0.
The four backs — Jay DeMerit, Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu and Jonathan Spector — absolutely shut down Fernando Torres, David Villa and Xavi.
There was one situation where I thought a goal was all but assured for the Spaniards. In the 53rd minute, midfielder Cesc Fabregas lobbed a ball over Landon Donovan to Xavi inside the 18-yard box. However, Donovan bumped Xavi hard from behind taking him out of the play and referee Jorge Larrionda didn’t even make a movement to bring the whistle to his mouth to call the foul.
Soon after, the U.S. was finally able to get the ball to safety in the neutral zone and finally into its attacking zone for Dempsey’s goal.
The defense/midfield was stupendous for the U.S. and will have to be come Sunday for the final when they will no doubt face Brazil.
A phenomenal showing for the U.S. which has certainly given its fan base something to look forward to: A possible Confederations Cup championship.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Well, this isn’t the last time I will be wrong — I can assure you of that.
In what will be known as quite possibly the darkest day in Spaniard Soccer history, the United States pulled off the previously thought of improbable upset.
The U.S. scored in the 27th minute on a goal by Jozy Altidore, then came out flat in the second half.
It almost cost them the lead until Clint Dempsey got his 15th international goal in the 73rd minute to give the U.S. a two-nil victory over Spain.
For those of you new to the soccer lingo, that’s 2-0.
The four backs — Jay DeMerit, Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu and Jonathan Spector — absolutely shut down Fernando Torres, David Villa and Xavi.
There was one situation where I thought a goal was all but assured for the Spaniards. In the 53rd minute, midfielder Cesc Fabregas lobbed a ball over Landon Donovan to Xavi inside the 18-yard box. However, Donovan bumped Xavi hard from behind taking him out of the play and referee Jorge Larrionda didn’t even make a movement to bring the whistle to his mouth to call the foul.
Soon after, the U.S. was finally able to get the ball to safety in the neutral zone and finally into its attacking zone for Dempsey’s goal.
The defense/midfield was stupendous for the U.S. and will have to be come Sunday for the final when they will no doubt face Brazil.
A phenomenal showing for the U.S. which has certainly given its fan base something to look forward to: A possible Confederations Cup championship.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
LSU National Champions
By Jorge Bannister
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
For those of you who missed it, the College World Series concluded last night.
The LSU Tigers defeated the Texas Longhorns, 11-4, for the Tigers’ sixth baseball national title.
The Tigers — who I had ranked No. 1 in the country heading into the postseason, and will (obviously) keep the ranking after the title — scored 51 runs in six games, showing their power bats, while their pitching staff only allowed 26 runs.
Pure national champs, indeed.
Jared Mitchell, who hit a three-run homer in the first inning, won the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. Mitchell, drafted by the Chicago White Sox in Major League Baseball’s first-year player draft earlier this month, was a member of the 2007 football team which won the BCS Championship.
Somehow, Larry Templeton, the head of the NCAA Division 1 Baseball Committee and Mississippi State’s athletic director, seemed to have gotten the national seeds right — I don’t think anyone can argue a 1-3 matchup in the finals.
CWS Recaps
In Game 1, the Longhorns had a 6-4 lead heading into the top of the ninth before Taylor Jungmann blew the save and LSU went on to win, 7-6, in 11 innings.
Jungmann shrugged everything off for Game 2, though, as the freshman tossed a complete-game in Game 2, allowing an unearned run on five hits.
Trailing, 4-2, early in Game 3, Texas’ Kevin Keyes hit a two-run homer on the fourth pitch of the fifth inning for LSU’s Anthony Ranaudo (win; 5-1/3 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 4 Ks). Without missing a beat, however, the Tigers answered with five runs in the top of the sixth before adding a run in the eighth and ninth innings.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
For those of you who missed it, the College World Series concluded last night.
The LSU Tigers defeated the Texas Longhorns, 11-4, for the Tigers’ sixth baseball national title.
The Tigers — who I had ranked No. 1 in the country heading into the postseason, and will (obviously) keep the ranking after the title — scored 51 runs in six games, showing their power bats, while their pitching staff only allowed 26 runs.
Pure national champs, indeed.
Jared Mitchell, who hit a three-run homer in the first inning, won the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. Mitchell, drafted by the Chicago White Sox in Major League Baseball’s first-year player draft earlier this month, was a member of the 2007 football team which won the BCS Championship.
Somehow, Larry Templeton, the head of the NCAA Division 1 Baseball Committee and Mississippi State’s athletic director, seemed to have gotten the national seeds right — I don’t think anyone can argue a 1-3 matchup in the finals.
CWS Recaps
In Game 1, the Longhorns had a 6-4 lead heading into the top of the ninth before Taylor Jungmann blew the save and LSU went on to win, 7-6, in 11 innings.
Jungmann shrugged everything off for Game 2, though, as the freshman tossed a complete-game in Game 2, allowing an unearned run on five hits.
Trailing, 4-2, early in Game 3, Texas’ Kevin Keyes hit a two-run homer on the fourth pitch of the fifth inning for LSU’s Anthony Ranaudo (win; 5-1/3 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 4 Ks). Without missing a beat, however, the Tigers answered with five runs in the top of the sixth before adding a run in the eighth and ninth innings.
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