Celtics and Mavs Want More!

The Boston Celtics have one of the best line-ups in the NBA, with All-Stars Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Sophomore Rajon Rondo has really stepped up up to perform well alongside. Still, they're looking for players like free agent Brent Barry and Jamaal Magloirewaiting for Sam Cassell's buyout.

Since the beginning of the season, depth was an issue that could hurt them later in the season and in the playoff hunt. Even though they have a good 8-man rotation with 2 good shooters in Eddie House and James Posey, along with starting center Kendrick Perkins and Tony Allen, it wouldn't hurt for them to expand with 2 extra slots open. The other 5 players (Leon Powe, Gabe Pruitt, Glen Davis, Brian Scalibrine and Scot Pollard) have not appeared consitently during the season.

Cassell is a good bet for a back-up point guard. Even though he's 38, he's going out with a bang averaging 12.8 PPG and 4.7 APG. He's looking for a buyout from the Clippers, and Boston, Dallas, and Denver reportedly want Sam I Am, who currently has a wrist injury. Point guard Flip Murray is also said to get Boston's attention.

Brent Barry, 36, has been looking for a new home in his last year in the NBA, after being traded to and waived by Seattle. One thing that stands out in his stats is that he's a 95% free throw shooter (19/20) this season and a 43% 3 point shooter (46/107), to go with 7.3 PPG. It wouldn't hurt for him to go to the line during the playoffs. His brother,Jon Barry, says that Brent will give the Celtics serious consideration. The Suns, Rockets are interested in getting him. Of course, the Spurs want to re-sign him too.

Magloire, on the other hand, has not been doing well for a couple of seasons. Even though he's 29, he's averaged career lows this year of 1.8 PPG and 3.4 RPG. His stints with the Blazers did not go well last year either. The Boston Globe says that the Celtics aren't interested in Magloire, but it also says that Doc Rivers is keeping an open mind.

The Dallas Mavericks are the rivals of the Celtics right now when it comes to getting one of these players. Both are said to be pursuing Cassell and Magloire. The Mavs are looking because of the trade that got them Jason Kidd, but left them shorthanded at the C and PG spots. After the loss of DeSagana Diop and J.J. Barea not meeting the team's requirements, Cassell and Magloire seem to fill those gaps.

It'll be interesting to see where each player ends up at and how they play, especially if Boston ends up with Magloire and Cassell. If they do end up in Boston, it could give them the boost they need in the playoffs.

Brent Barry Wanted in Boston
http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2008/02/23/barry_is_generating_interest/?rss_id=Boston+Globe+--+Sports+News

Other Teams Want Barry
http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/0222sunsnb.html

Wallace Suffers Concussion, Kings Win in OT

Usually when Gerald Wallace steps on the court, the most dangerous player he faces is himself. He's dived into crowds, avoided hitting his head on the backboard many times, and takes it hard to the rack when he can. What got him though was a Mikki Moore elbow slamming into the left of hs face when Moore was trying to get up a shot. Moore showed complete concern for Wallace standing near the huddle before he was wheeled off. A scary moment, especially when you see it live like I did. Thanks to Odenized for posting the videos up.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyJoPMK20Bo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os81C3WZPm8

Wallace didn't make the trip to Washington D.C. after the game, but he wasn't the only injury in the game. In the 3rd quarter, John Salmons would have to leave, due to a left thigh contusion sustained when Emeka Okafor hit him with his knee when both were going up for a rebound. Not even as scary as Wallace's injury.

2ND HALF

After what happened early in the 3rd quarter, it was hard for the fans to adjust back into the game with Wallace's injury and their minds, but the Kings had no problem getting back into the game as they eventually got up to a 10 point lead and led at the half 84-78.The Bobcats would light it up in the 4th quarter as they mounted a furious run to catch up to the Kings. The Kings had a 106-100 lead with 56 seconds to go and it seemed like they were going to have their first ever win at Bobcats Arena. A 9-3 Bobcats run, including a Jason Richardson 3 pointer would help tie the game. Ice cold shooter Kevin Martin missed the potential game winner, as he was 0/6 from the field but made 13/18 free throws. The game goes into OT tied at 109.

OVERTIME

The Kings started off as a red hot Francisco Garcia hit a career high sixth 3 pointer and went up 112-109. Derek Andrson's free throws and Okafor's shot and free throw put up the Cats up 112-114. Martin made his only field goal of the game to tie the game at 114. Artest would hit the eventual game winner with 16 seconds left. Raymond Felton would hit only 1/2 free throws to make it 116-115. On the inbounds pass after a Kings time out, Brad Miller had the ball knocked off of his hands. He also got a horse collar from Jeff McInnis before the ball went out of bounds, but no call. Felton had a chance to win the game but he missed it. With Shelden Williams getting his only rebound of the night, time expired and the Kings became the last team to win at Bobcats Arena.

Highlights

Kings
Miller: 22 pts, 14 reb, 5 ast, 3 blk, stl, 6 TO
Garcia: 23 pts (Career High 6/8 3PT FG), 3 blk, reb ast, stl (bench)
Artest: 20 pts (game winner), 9 reb (5 off), 4 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk
Beno Udrih: 17 pts, 8 reb, 6 ast, blk, fouled out
Martin: 15 pts (1/8 FG, 13/18 FT), 2 ast, blk, reb
Moore: 5 pts, 9 reb
Spencer Hawes: 4 pts, 5 reb, blk (bench)
Williams: 4 pts, reb, blk, 5 min (bench)

Bobcats
Richardson: 29 pts (5/9 3PT FG), 5 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk
Felton: 17 pts, 7 reb, 10 ast, 3 stl, blk
Okafor: 12 pts, 7 reb, 2 ast, blk
Wallace: 6 pts, 6 reb, 4 ast, 3 blk, stl (injured early 3rd quarter)
Anderson: 15 pts, 4 reb, 2 stl (bench)
Earl Boykins: 9 pts, 4 reb, 2 ast (bench)
Carrol: 8 pts, 4 reb, ast (bench)
Nazr Mohammed: 5 pts, 3 reb (2 off) (bench)

The Bobcats might be in trouble because of Wallace's injury. It would probably push Mohammed into the center spot and move Okarfor to power forward. If it's long term, it might kill the Bobcats' playoff hopes. On the bright side, the bench had a major contribution with 47 points. They go to play the Wizards

The Kings bench had 37 points, led by Garcia's team high 23 points off of the bench. They had a season high 11 blocks on the night. Late turnovers almost cost them the game, but their defense kept them in it. It helped them sweep the Cats and get their 3rd straight win since the All-Star Break and since they traded Mike Bibby. Now the look to break through the glass window of 2 games away from .500. They've never been closer than that. More importantly, they're looking to get to .500 and still get to the playoffs.

The Kings mentality of making the playoffs, thanks to coach Reggie Theus, has made them a stronger team, despite a weak start to the season with 9 straight road losses. Since then, they're 9-9 on the road. After trading Bibby, they're 3-0, but they still have to go to Orlando, play at Miami and Atlanta on a back-to-back, then got to Dallas before coming back home. Artest has played great since playing the Bobcats in Sacramento. In 11 games he's averaged 23.5 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.6 APG, 2.5 SPG and 0.6 BPG. Only one game has been less than 20 points. Ever since he requested a trade, he was playing at a high level. After the trade deadline, he's been playing at the same level. Possibly, he could be getting an extension at the end of his contract, since his agent said that opting out is "unlikely" this summer. Now, him and the Kings are truly looking forward to get into the playoff race.

Bibby's Return Spoiled, Kings Win 119-107

It was an emotional return for fans and players alike, for this would be the last game Mike Bibby would play at Arco Arena for the rest of the year, and the first time in since 2000 he would play in a different uniform. He was warmly welcomed the former King only 4 days removed from his old team, the last survivor of the 2002 Western Conference Championship team. Fans showed him the appreciation of the many things he did for them as he waved to the crowd, and he will be missed by many Kings fans.

It would be a high scoring game , not to mention 4 technicals given out. Bibby knew the Kings' moves, and Shelden Williams and Anthony Johnson knew the Hawks moves. Despite the Kings knew that Bibby would give them everything he had, the Kings were ready to take on the Hawks and their new look team, and it would be a game to remember.

1ST QUARTER

After a jump ball between Brad Miller and highflyer Josh Smith, the Hawks struck first with a basket. It would be another tightly contested game like the previous Blazers game, each team exchanging shot after shot. Ron Artest and Kevin Martin led the charge against the Hawks with a combined 17/30 points in the first quarter. Bibby led the Hawks by hitting his first two 3 pointers. Since Bibby left, Beno Udrih would fill in the starting point guard spot, and he would end up doing a good job. Bibby would rest early because of his bruised heel, leaving fans wondering if he would come back.

2ND QUARTER

Kings head coach Reggie Theus got the first technical of the night and the second of his career. The game started to get intense as time progressed. Another T was thrown out to Brad Miller, but Joe Johnson missed it. Lead changes, ties, you get it. Newly acquired D-Leaguer Jeremy Richardson made a big splash on his new team by scoring 7 points. Josh Childress also had 7 points. The Hawks had a balanced attack with teamwork, but the Kings were right in the game as the Martin/Artest tandem combined for 38/62 1st half points (Martin 18, Artest 20). It was 62-60 a Kings lead.

3RD QUARTER

Kevin Martin came out with a 3 pointer, but Bibby answered right back with his 3rd stragiht of the night. The Hawks would start to take a tumble. Josh Smith would get T'd up when he got upset after he was called for a foul, but Martin missed the technical. For 3 1/2 minutes, the Kings went on a dry spell, allowing the Hawks to get back in the game. During that run, Martin got a T after fouling Marvin Williams, but Bibby missed the free throw. Shelden Williams, who just checked in, would get the Kings lead back at 85-84. Francisco Garcia hit a buzzer beater at the end of the quarter, and the Kings would lead 93-90 at the end of the 3rd quarter.

4TH QUARTER

For the second straight night on a back-to-back, the Kings would go down to the wire. Childress was impressive as he scored the last of a team high 18 points. Brad Miller only had 4 points through 3 quarters befan to light up Atlanta to finish with 12 points. Garcia would hit his fourth 3 pointer and finish with 14 points. Artest wouldn't let the Kings fall back, using his strentgh to stay in the game, scoring a total 29 points. Not only that, Artest completely shut down Johnson, who only had 4 points in the 4th quarter. Williams also had an impressive night and finised with 8 points as Udrih notched his 10th assist. The Kings would rout the Hawks in the quarter and win 119-107.

Highlights

Kings
Artest: 29 pts, 7 reb (3 off.), 3 ast, 3 stl, blk
Udrih: 18 pts, 10 ast, 0 TO, 3 reb
Martin: 26 pts, 3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl
Miller: 12 pts (8 fourth qtr.), 13 reb, 4 ast, blk
Garcia: 14 pts (4/6 3pt.), 2 stl (bench)
Williams: 8 pts, 2 reb, 9 min (bench)
Spencer Hawes: 2 pts, 8 reb 13 min (bench)

Hawks
Al Horford: 12 pts, 12 reb, 3 ast, 3 blk, fouled out
Childress: 18 pts, 3 reb, 2 blk (bench)
Smith: 16 pts, 6 reb, 3 ast, 3 blk, stl,
Bibby: 17 pts, 3 ast
Williams: 13 pts, 6 reb, 2 ast, stl, blk
Johnson: 16 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast
Richardson: 7 pts, stl, 8 min (bench)

The Kings are now 2-0 since trading Bibby over the All-Star Break, while the Hawks are 0-2, slipping out of the playoff race. Both teams had got contributions from the bench, but the Kings had the edge. The Kings go on the road for the rest of February, including ATL this Wednesday. The Hawks continue to jell together with Bibby, and as soon as they do, they'll get back in the race.

Blazers Lose 5th Straight to Kings, 105-94

It was the Artest show in the 4th quarter as he scored half of his points there and shut down Brandon Roy. Shelden Williams had an impressive debut in limited minutes, Garcia scored 23 points off of a back injury, it was all good for the Kings. It was a physical game with a dash of technicals and boos to Artest, again. The Blazers surged to stay in the game, thanks to the bench from Travis Outlaw and Martell Webster who chipped in a combined 41 points. It was close game throughout, and each team went on runs to put on the pressure. In the end, in the words of coach Nate McMillan, "We just couldn't handle Artest."

1ST HALF

In the beginning, Channing Frye and Joel Przybilla went off of the Kings, dunking on them wide open in the lane. Portland was going crazy like the dunk contest spilled over into the Rose Garden. After the 1st quarter dunk fest, things started to heat up. It started to get competitive, with Francisco Garcia and Travis Outlaw in a shootout. Garcia finished with 12 points in the half while Outlaw had 10 points. Shelden Williams came on his Kings debut strong with solid defensive play in the las minute of the game which could give him more playing time. the score tied at 51 at the half.

Kevin Martin only had 2 points. Looks like he's due for another horrible night. Maybe not.

Brandon Roy had 9 points. He should finish around his average of 19.5 PPG. Maybe not.

2ND HALF

The Kings let their guard down for the first part of the 3rd quarter, allowing the Blazers to make the first 3 shots. The Kings answered back with a 13-4 run, helping them to a 70-65 at the end of the 3rd quarter.

Let's look at the odds of the Kings winning. Since the Sacramento era of the Kings began in 1985, the Kings have a record of 15-70 at the Rose Garden. That's a 17.6% winning average at Portland. The odds aren't that good for them winning. But add Artest to the equation, and it changes.

Outlaw and Webtser exploded in the 4th quarter getting 23 points and 18 points respectively. But on the defensive end, nothing could go Portland's way as the Kings were getting almost every foul call they could. The Kings getting to the line ended in the Kings going 11/14. Martin exploded in the 2nd half to finish with 21 points, while Garcia continued his shootout to finish with 23 points. In the end, most of the credit goes to Artest for shutting down Roy in the 2nd half. Not only that, but he also got 12 of his 24 points in the 4th quarter as well. Portland self-destructed at the end when Webster fouled Martin and got a technical for exploding at the ref. No question he was fouled though. Thanks to a big 4th quarter, the Kings pulled out win #16 since 1985, and sent the Blazers to a 5th straight loss.

Highlights

Kings
Artest: 24 pts, 5 rbs, 5 ast, 3 stl (held Roy scoreless in 4th quarter)
Garcia: 23 pts (5/7 3pt), 6 reb (bench)
Martin: 21 pts (19 pts in 2nd half), 6 reb, 3 ast, stl
Brad Miller: 15 pts, 8 reb, 3 ast, stl, blk
Williams: 3 pts, 3 reb (2 off.), blk in 5 minutes (bench)

Blazers
Outlaw: 23 pts, 5 reb, 2 stl (bench)
Webster: 18 pts, 3 reb, stl, blk (bench)
Roy: 11 pts (2 pts 2nd half), 8 reb, 6 ast
Jarret Jack: 9 pts, 11 ast
LaMarcus Aldridge: 12 pts, 5 reb, 3 blk, 2 stl, ast
Przybilla: 6 pts, 9 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk

The Kings are keeping their hopes up to go on a run like they did 2 years ago, when they had the 4th best record in the NBA after the All-Star Break. Artest, even though he's on the verge of being traded, backs it up by saying "We just don't want to be a rollover type of team, so we're making a push. We're not out until they say we're out.''

The Blazers, on the other hand, sound like their starting to get worried when Przybilla said, "We've got less than 30 games to go and we've got to get back on one of those streaks and get our confidence back.'' It was Portland's worst home loss of the season.

As the Blazers get reday to take on the Sonics after a day of rest, the Kings head back home to face former teammate Mike Bibby and the Atlanta Hawks tonight in an ironic, yet emotional homecoming. Bibby, however, was injured playing the Lakers last night, but he might play. If it's long term, it will hurt the Hawks' playoff run.

Look Ahead for the Eastern Conference

When the Celtics acquired Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen the East was considered to be a powerhouse once again. Then the only teams that really separated themselves from the pack were the Celtics, Pistons and Magic. Now a team doesn't have a .500 record to be in the playoffs, but like the West, many teams are still in the playoff hunt. Other than the Celtics, there might be a new playoff team.

1. Boston Celtics (41-9) Getting Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen made Paul Pierce very happy. The one weak spot that they were thought to have was a good point guard. Look at Rajon Rondo now. Center Kendrick Perkins has been a great starter too. That 72-10 record is out of reach now, but they're a top 2 playoff team at the least. They've lost KG for 9 games and played well for the most part. It could be tough for them later on because the Pistons are trailing them.


2. Detroit Pistons (39-13) The Pistons are still one of the elite teams of the East. They haven't done anything different than last year except move Rasheed Wallace to center. A big part of their success is the rise of Jason Maxiell in the starting line-up. They didn't re-sign Chris Webber and traded Nazr Mohammed, but things have worked out for the better. Unless the Magic or Cavs have something to say, the East is gearing up for the Celtics-Pistons Eastern Conference Finals match-up. It's been a while since that happened.


3. Orlando Magic (33-21) The Magic have had a great season this far. After a red hot 16-4 start under Dwight Howard's MVP play, the Magic have slowed down, but no question they're playoff bound. What was even more surprising is that after acquiring Rashard Lewis, Hedo Turkoglu outperformed him throughout the season. They have a powerful All-Star caliber frontcourt. They've struggled against elite teams like Detroit, Phoenix, and San Antonio, but they're also one of the few teams to beat the Celtics. They're set to go as far as the 2nd round of the playoffs at least, but the conference finals doesn't seem that distant for them.
   
4. Cleveland Cavaliers (29-23) The Cavs are back where they're supposed to be, with the East's elite. The East seemed to be off to such great start that the Cavs seemed to get left in the dust and out of the playoff picture. The reigning conference champions passed those teams and reminded everyone who they are. Even though they're in the picture, the organization failed to get a point guard that LeBron James really wanted, since Jason Kidd is heading to Dallas and Mike Bibby is now a Hawk. Bibby was the ideal player for him to take off the scoring load for him, but James wanted Kidd. Either way he's not getting either of them, but Larry Hughes might be making a comeback after dropping a few high scoring games this year. Paired with sharpshooter Daniel Gibson, the Cavs might not have to look far to take the load off of James.


5. Toronto Raptors (28-23) The Raps are right back where they were last year, only they haven't played with T.J. Ford most of the year. Enter breakout point guard Jose Calderon and they're still on track for last year. He's been phenomenal in terms of playmaking, and has even been compared to John Stockton. Along with Chris Bosh and highflying rookie Jamario Moon, Toronto still plays well and show no signs of stopping. They're one of 5 teams that are over .500 in the East so if they stay over, it's automaticd that they'rein the playoffs.


6. Washington Wizards (25-27) No Gilbert Areans, no problem. They were supposed to be one of the worst teams in the league with their superstar done for the at least most of the season, but All-Stars Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison were still on the team. Add the solid play of rookie Nick Young, DeShawn Stevenson and Brendan Haywood, and this is a team determined to make the playoffs. No need to find out if Young will lose his starting job because Arenas said that he would come off of the bench, maybe not to disrupt the team's chemistry. Arenas is still planning to opt out, but it's a toss up wheather he'll stay or go.


7. New Jersey Nets (23-30) The Nets are in danger of not making the playoffs this year. Despite Richard Jefferson's great year, Vince Carter averaging 20 PPG and having Jason Kidd, one of the best point guards in the NBA, for some reason they couldn't get it done. They're on of the many teams that have talented players but can't seem to get the job done. Now they're losing Kidd and there are 6 other teams behind them that can make the playoffs as well. By getting rid of Kidd and getting Devin Harris, they're starting the rebuilding process right now, but they have to trade Carter, someone who wants out too, as well to free up some more cap space and truly start rebuilding. Sean Williams has been one of the best defensive rookies of the year, and Josh Boone is starting to show his potential. If they play their cards right, the process might not take as long.


8. Philadelphia 76ers (23-30) The Sixers have been in the playoff hunt all year long. Andre Iguodala has been the best performer on the team so far. Samuel Dalembert has been an athletic center for the team too catching alley-oops from Andre Miller. It seems now that he's staying in Philly instead of being traded. If the team keeps up their chemistry, they can make a playoff push for the first time since Allen Iverson and Chris Webber were on the team.


9. Atlanta Hawks (21-28) Now that the Hawks recieved point guard Mike Bibby from the Kings, the Hawks now seem playoff bound for the first time since 1999. They were considered a darkhorse this year after a good start and are in a virtual tie for 7th place. Bibby has been seen as the answer to take the scoring load off of Joe Johnson and could be the point guard Atlanta has needed for a long time. Bibby can also throw good lob passes to Josh Smith. With a impressive young froncourt in Smith, Marvin Williams and rookie of the year canidate Al Horford, the Hawks could bring the playoffs back to Atlanta, maybe at a 6 seed.


10. Chicago Bulls (21-31) After counting the Bulls out of the playoff race. Coach Scott Skiles was doing a horrible job and was fired. After going 9-16 with Skiles, they're 12-15 with Jim Boylan. It's no surpise that Ben Gordon would continue his scoring ways, but it was a surprise that they asked him to go back to the bench for the 6th man role, an idea that some teams are benefiting from. Andres Nocioni has become a better 3 point shooter ever since the coaching change. New addition Joe Smith has been gettting better as time goes on. If Ben Wallace can improve this team might be back in the playoffs.
    
11. Indiana Pacers (21-32) The Pacers seem to have lost their playoff hopes. Once a 19-22 team, they lost 7 straight games resulting in a 2-9 record since then. Jermaine O'Neal is likely out for the season and the Pacers don't look like they're trying to do what the Wizards are doing without Gilbert Arenas. Jamaal Tinsley has been performing well at the point with back-up Travis Diener developing himself. Mike Dunleavy has come out this year as a good scorer for the team, and Kareem Rush may be another player the Pacers want to keep. With the way they're playing, they might not make the playoffs and O'Neal might not be around next year. It might be a rebuilding year for the rest of the team, but if he does come back, this team will look to the playoffs next year.


12. Milwaukee Bucks (19-34) The Bucks have a talented team in Andrew Bogut, Michael Redd, Mo Williams Charlie Villanueva and Yi Jianlian, but they can't seem to take off. Redd has been scoring 20+ PPG, Yi has been one of the great rookies of the year and Bogut has stepped up his game, but they just can't seem to take off. Hopefully, if they can't make it to the playoffs this season, they might be able to get another high draft pick, maybe the one to help this team get more competitive.


13. Charlotte Bobcats (19-34) Jordan's team hasn't been doing good as of late. The combo of Json Richardson and Gerald Wallace hasn't paid off as much as they hoped. Before going on a 7 game losing streak, they were seen as playoff bound. Now they have to make a big run in order to keep thier hopes alive. For next season, they might not have Emeka Okafor next season after not being able to reach an agreement on an extension.


14. New York Knicks (15-37) Getting Zach Randolph was supposed to be the last piece needed to help the Knicks make the playoffs in the East. It was supposed to be Eddy Curry, Randolph, Quentin Richardson, Jamal Crawford and Stephon Marbury reviving the team. No, what they got was a soap opera with fans chanting "Fire Isiah!" Randolph, Curry and Marbury were on the trading block, and Marbury ended his season with ankle surgery. The Knicks are lottery bound again and might break up their team again.


15. Miami Heat (9-42) From NBA Champions in 2006 to the NBA's worst. Why? Key players from the championship team were lost. Dwyane Wade came in the season coming off of 2 surgeries and he couldn't carry his team. They just lost Shaq and Shawn Marion couldn't replace him. They're in danger of getting the top lottery pick and Wade might not be there if he feels like it, and Marion could be out as early as after this season. Now the Heat find themselves rebuilding again. It will be another few years until they can be in the playoffs again, but with Marion, they might not finish as the worst team in the NBA this year.

The East might have a wild finish for the 7 and 8 seed, but it should be interesting to see who comes out.

Look Ahead for the Western Conference

Ever since the Pau Gasol trade, the West has been loading up with talent. Shaq goes to PHX, Damon Stoudemire to the Spurs, and before all the trades, Kyle Korver to Utah. It's going to be a fight to the finish for any position in the West. There are 10 teams that are contenders for a playoff spot, but 2 teams are going to be pushed out.

1. New Orleans Hornets have been an incredible team this especially when you consider that they're in the Southwest division. What makes it even more incredible is that it's in a conference loaded with a bunch talent. Chris Paul has been incredible, maximizing the frontline in Tyson Chandler, David West and Peja Stojakovic. Need to go inside? TC or D-West. Can't get a lay-up driving inside? Kick it out to Peja for three. No wonder he averages 10.9 APG. Paul's also had an MVP caliber season to go along with the Hornets' amazing season so far. If they keep up the pace that they're on, they're definitely title contenders for this year.


2. Phoenix Suns (37-16) Even though they still have one of the best records in the NBA, a lot of people think that the Suns are worse than before. Maybe that's why they made the move to get Shaq in exchange for Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks. The trade gave them the much needed size that they needed since they lost Kurt Thomas, but it's still in question if Shaq can hang with the run-n-gun style of the Suns. Word is that they're not done trading yet. The Suns have missed opportunities to get to the Finals for the past 3 years and time is running out for them. Still, 2 time MVP Steve Nash still has the drive to lead the new look Suns to a championship.


3. Los Angeles Lakers (35-17) Six months ago, many people thought Kobe Bryant was on his way out of L.A. With the rise of Andrew Bynum they've been labled as contenders. Then they go get Pau Gasol and get rid of Kwame Brown. Now they're labled as the best in the west. Bynum's got a few weeks to go until he gets back on the court since injuring his knee, and Kobe just injured his pinky finger and said no to surgery. If Kobe can't perform the way he usualy does while he's injured, as tough as the West is, a bad run can drop the Lakers to a 7 or 8 seed, or even drop out of the race. If Kobe doesn't perform as well, Gasol and Lamar Odom will have to step up their game to stay in the race for at least homecourt advantage. But we've all seen Kobe.


4. Utah Jazz (34-19) The Jazz are back on track to repeating where they finished last year. Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer have proven to be one of the toughest duos to match up against in the league, averaging 40.8 PPG. Williams has become an excellent playmaker with 9.7 APG while Boozer has been a 20-10 machine. AK-47's been a stat stuffer, Ronnie Brewer's stepped up his game and with the addition of Kyle Korver, the Jazz get a much needed shooter that could help them still be contenders.
   
5. San Antonio Spurs (34-17) The NBA Champions are still in the mix. Tim Duncan has led the Spurs to 4 championships in 9 years but it looked like they were taking a tumble after losing point guard Tony Parker. Many thought that age would finally catch up to the oldest team in the NBA. When Jacque Vaughn didn't look like enough, they turned to newly signed Damon Stoudmire, where they gained control during their annual rodeo trip. Now they look to do what the Spurs haven't done before, win back-to-back championships.
   
6. Dallas Mavericks (35-18) The Mavs have had what has been the best 2 year run in the franchise's history, but at the same time the most disappointing run. They went up 2-0 to the 2005 Finals only to lose 4 straight. They clinched the first seed in the West last year and Dirk Nowitzki got the MVP, only to get booted out the first round by the Golden State Warriors. Now they look to even up with the top teams by trying to acquire Jason Kidd, only to be blocked by Deavean George. They're still working on the trade but if the Mavs don't get the trade through, it could cause problems with the team's chemistry and emotionally hurt them in the second half of the season. It can hurt the players involved with that trade the most.


7. Golden State Warriors (32-20) The Warriors barely made it in last year. This year, they've been in the playoff picture since they hit the .500 mark after starting 1-6. The Yard's own Baron Davis has helped lead this team to where they are dishing out 8.1 APG, Al Harrington and Stephen Jackson are lighting it up from 3 point land, Monta Ellis' stepping up his game. One bad run for this team can cost them the playoffs, but since getting back Captain Jack, that doesn't seem likely. Hopefully Chris Webber will help give the Warriors the size they were looking for.
   
8. Denver Nuggets (32-30) They're right in the mix for leading the Northwest division, fighting with Utah and Portland. As competitive as the West is, they could get knocked out. With a strong line-up Carmelo Anthony, Allen Iverson, Marcus Camby and Kenyon Martin, they're too strong not to make the playoffs. Melo has made it public that he would like to add to the team by trading for the Kings' forward Ron Artest, which will be a major boost in defensive. Seemingly the organization is willing to part with Eduardo Najera, not the up and coming Linas Kleiza. The Kings aren't interested in acquiring just Eduardo Najera with a draft pick or recent cancer survivor Nene. Either the Artest for Kleiza-Najera, Artest for Kleiza-draft pick or Artest for Nene goes through, or they'll go with what they have, which is still pretty good.
   
9. Houston Rockets (32-20) The Rockets were struggling in the first half of the season with Tracy McGrady injuring himself early, Yao Ming had to help carry the Rockets. During a good run that they had earlier, some were starting to think that the Rockets were better without T-Mac. This was during the time that he wanted to be traded from the team. Luther Head stepped in and had some good games to fill in for T-Mac. But now that McGrady is back, they've won 10 of 11 games to be tied for 7th place and they look better than ever. With Head injured, the team is still doing great and is looking to get even better keeping everyone healthy.
   
10. Portland Trailblazers (28-24) The Blazers were the feel good story of the NBA. Once the hottest team in the league, they won 13 straight games after losing 9 out of 10. Brandon Roy emerged as their leader, LaMarcus Aldridge became a threat, the whole team just performed well with their unbelievable chemistry on and off the court. Since their miracle run, the youngest team in the league cooled back down, losing 4 straght games, going to 4 games over .500 and 4 games out of the playoffs. They're not counted out of the playoffs and definitely not counted out as title contenders in the future, espcially with Greg Oden coming in.
    
11. Sacramento Kings (23-28) Looks like it's time to call it a season, because Mike Bibby just got traded to the Atlanta Hawks for Anthony Johnson, Tyronn Lue, Lorenzen Wright and Shelden Williams (all but Williams have expiring contracts). It seemed like a bad season from the start for them. Bibby was hurt for over 35 games, Ron Artest was suspended the first 7 games and injured later, and leading scorer Kevin Martin (23.9 PPG) was injured, it all seemed hopeless. Throw in John Salmons and Beno Udrih's breakout year, 3 Francisco Garcia game winning 3 pointers, and throw in beating divisional leaders 7 times, and they have hope for next year. Looking to finish over .500 for the year under new coach Reggie Theus and having over $1 million in cap space for a big free agent, they look to start fresh. And Artest wanting a trade, he's backed off of it.
    
12. Los Angeles Clippers (17-33) After surprisingly starting out a red hot 4-0, they went on to win only 13 more games. Everyone knew that it was going to be a horrible season without Elton Brand and Shaun Livingston. That gave Chris Kaman the opportunity to become a great center in the NBA. With Brand and Livingston due back, the Clippers look to get back on track for next year, hopefully getting back on track to becoming playoff contenders, shaping back into the form they were 2 years ago. Hopefully, both players will play the same way did before their injuries.
    
13. Memphis Grizzlies (14-38) There's not much to say about the Grizzlies now. After letting Pau Gasol and a 2010 2nd round draft pick go to the Lakers for Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, brother Marc Gasol and 1st round picks in 2008 and 2010, Memphis is looking to rebuild for the future. Mike Miller may be on his way out too and they bought out Damon Stoudemire. Rudy Gay and Mike Conley are the 2 essential pieces for their future. Gay could be a potential superstar with the way he's performing. He's one of the league's best dunkers and has a great jump shot. To think he's still developing. Who know's, Darko Milicic might be a defensive key with the way he's blocking shots.
    
14. Seattle Supersonics (13-38) The Sonics are right around where they're expected to be. Kevin Durant has been one of the leading canidates for Rookie of the Year. The line-up has shaken up a little bit. Luke Ridnour lost his starting point guard job to Earl Watson, Damien Wilkins earned the small forward spot then lost it to rookie Jeff Green and Robert Swift was marred by injuries again after expecting to start this season (I know, he told me). Add this bad season with a franchise record 14-game losing streak with the controversy of moving out of Seattle, it's a year to forget, except for the fact they got the number one rookie in the draft. It's a rebuilding year, and they look to develop all the young players that they have, and players like Swift and Delonte West might not come back next year.


15. Minnesota Timberwolves (10-41) It was a dead on predicition that Minnesota would be one of the top lottery teams this year. Seven players have expiring contracts, including point guard Sesbastian Telfair, one of their best players. Obviously after trading Kevin Garnett away, this team was in rebuilding mode. Signing star power forward Al Jefferson to an extension gave the team a centerpiece to work with for the next few years. Rashad McCants has put up good numbers. They brought in some experience too by trading for Antoine Walker, while getting rid of Mark Blount and his big contract. In 10 wins so far they've beaten the Suns twice. Before going on their current 5 game losing streak, the team showed signs of development by getting two 2-game winning streaks, winning 5 out of 7 games. They've got a lot of work ahead of them, but under Jefferson, this team has a future to look ahead too.

It's going to be a wild finish for the Western Conference. Many teams have performed well throughout the season but only 8 can make it to the playoffs. There might even be an upset.

The Best Grizzlies in Franchise History

The best Grizzlies players at their position at their peak year in the Grizzlies 13 year history. It wasn't hard to find them since all of them are still playing. Two are still playing with them, 2 play in Sacramento, and most recently, one just got traded to the Lakers. I wonder who?

C-Pau Gasol (06-07)
20.8 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.5, SPG, 2.1 BPG
FG 57.8%, 3 PT FG, 27.8%, FT 74.8%

Pau Gasol, of course, is the most celebrated Grizzly. Drafted by Atlanta and traded for Shareef Abdur-Rahim in 2001, he became the Rookie of the Year and went on to lead the franchise in leading scorer (8,872), rebounder (4,051) and shot blocker (868) in franchise history. He led Memphis to 3 playoff appearances. All 3 series, however, 0-4 sweeps for the Grizz. After requesting a trade, Memphis traded Gasol and a 2010 2nd round pick to the Lakers for Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, brother Marc Gasol and 1st round picks in 2008 and 2010. Lamar Odom was the original plan, but Memphis was looking for cap space after the season. And so the Gasol area (01-08) ended.

PF-Shareef Abdur-Rahim (99-00)
20.3 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG
FG 46.5%, 3 PT FG 30.8%, FT 80.9%

It's safe to say that he's the best Vanouver Grizzly with the numbers he put up. Teamed up with Mike Bibby, the 2000 Olympic gold medalist got the point guard needed to become the best duo the franchise ever had. Together in 2000-01 they averaged 36.4 PPG. Shareef holds the Grizzlies records for most points in a season (1,829), scoring average (22.3), rebounds (825) and rebounding average (10.1). After never making the playoffs, he was traded for to the Atlanta Hawks for rookie Pau Gasol. After being traded to Portland along with Theo Ratliff and Dan Dickau for Rasheed Wallace and Wesley Person, he eventually rejoined Mike Bibby in Sacramento in 2005 and made his playoff debut in 2006, losing to San Antonio 4-2.

SF-Rudy Gay (07-08 Going into All-Star Break)
19.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
44.6% FG, 39% 3 PT FG, 78.2% FT

Congrats Rudy Gay! Only a sophomore and you're already among the top 5 players in Grizzlies history. There's nothing but a bright future for this highflying sophomore who hasn't even peaked yet as for as we know. A great dunker, a deadly 3 point shooter when left open, and a developing defender, Gay has proved to be one of the best young players in the league, also to participate in the Dunk Contest.

SG-Mike Miller (06-07)
18.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
FG 46%, 3 PT FG 40.6%, FT 79.3%

Mike Miller is probably the best shooter Memphis' ever had. Acquired in a trade in 2003 with the Orlando Magic, the 2001 Rookie of the Year helped Memphis to 3 playoff appearances. In 2006, Miller recieved the Sixth Man Award and went on to have his best individual season to date last year. With the absence of Pau Gasol, Miller has stepped up to help carry his team to score 20+ points the last 3 out of 4 games.

PG-Mike Bibby (00-01)
15.9 PPG, 3.7 RPG 8.4, APG 1.3, SPG 0.2, BPG
FG 45.4%, 3PT FG 39.1%, FT 76.1%

Bibby was drafted by Vancouver a year later after Shareef. He was an instant success as a point guard and holds the record for the assist average (8.4). He and Shareef, as mentioned before, were the best duo the Grizz ever had. However, they never made the playoffs. Bibby was traded to Sacramento in exchange for Jason Williams where he would make the playoffs for 5 straight years and played a major role in the 2002 Playoffs against the Lakers.

If each of these players played together at their best during their stay on the team, these would be their averages.

Points Per Game 95.4
Rebounds Per Game 35.4
Assists Per Game 21.2
Steals Per Game 5.2
Blocks Per Game 4.5
Field Goal Percentage 48.06%
3 Point Field Goal Percentage 35.46%
Free Throw Percentage 77.86%

So there you have it. Through 13 years, these are the Grizzlies all time great players.