Nuggets Looking at Randolph

So far, Zach Randolph hasn't caused any problems for the New York Knicks. That could be one of the reasons they're 5-3 under Mike D'Antoni. He's drawn attention from the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers and now the Denver Nuggets, according to The Knicks Fix on New York Newsday. Every one of those teams are looking for a power forward. Chicago has Tyrus Thomas and Drew Gooden, the Cavs have Ben Wallace and Anderson Varejao and the Nuggets have Kenyon Martin.

After landing Chauncey Billups and Cheikh Samb from the Pistons for Allen Iverson, the Nuggets could make another move by moving Martin to the Knicks. They're still trying to move Randolph for cap space in 2010 and the Nuggets' Carmelo Anthony, Nené and head coach George Karl all agree that they need another big man, according to the Rocky Mountain News. Nuggets' Owner Stan Kroenke rejcted Karl's plea to re-sign Juwawn Howard because of salary cap issues. Another note, the Knicks traded Renaldo Balkman to Denver over the summer for Taurean Green and Bobby Jones, both waived after the trade.

Randolph has three years left with $48 million on his contract. He's been an effective center for the Knicks thus far. Martin also has three years left on his contract with a player option for 2010, so both can be traded for straight-up. The Knicks would have to trade him again before 2010 or involve a third party like the Charlotte Bobcats because Martin most likely won't want to give up over $16.5 million in 2010. The Bobcats have been shopping Gerald Wallace, but his contract has four years left, so the Knicks might not want him unless they see him as a good trade piece.

If you package Wallace with Sean May (one year left on contract) to the Knicks, Martin could go to Charlotte and Randolph to Denver. It could work. Randolph could make an instant impact for Denver with Anthony, Billups, Nené and Dhantay Jones. Another big man, capable of going 20-10 any night could help the Nuggets into the playoffs. Out of the first round, maybe not. He could also break this team if he goes back to his old attitude instead of his new one. It's all up to him.

David Lee would have to step up for the Knicks in place of Randolph. After starting for the first few games, he was benched when Wilson Chandler played very well off the bench. Eddy Curry hasn't hasn't seen any time this season, getting benched and out with and injury. It'd be fun to see the super-athletic Wallace in the mix with Lee, Chandler, Chris Duhon and Jamal Crawford.

Martin getting in with the Bobcats with Emeka Okafor, Jason Richardson, Raymond Felton should be interesting. They might have to move Okafor to center and put Adam Morrison in the starting line-up at small forward. It should be interesting how Larry Brown would incorperate him into their game.

Randolph is gathering some attention from at least three teams with his play and the Knicks early success. Eventually, he'll be traded, but for now, it looks like he's turned over a new leaf. When asked if he'd have any hard feelings towards the Knicks if he was traded, it sounded like a more mature person.

“Nah, it’s a business, it’s not personal. I learned that from a lot of older guys...Whatever do happen, I’m going to be ready.”

So as he wonders which team will land him as his agent keeps him updated on who wants him, Randolph will have to keep his new attitude, play hard, and reap the benefits he's been missing out on for a long time.

2009 NBA All-Star Ballots Open (My Selections)

The 2009 NBA All-Star ballot has just been released and the voting is under way, so I'm picking up what I did last year by picking who I vote for and why. Two teams. Two guards, two forwards and a center each, and a write-in. It's not about the top talents like Chris Paul LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. They're already getting in. It's about getting other all-star talents recognized.

You can vote online everyday until January 19. You can vote on nba.com, or you can do it right here, using the NBA All-Star 2009 widget on the top-right side of my blog. T-Mobile will be helping out the Phoenix community by donating $1 for every ballot you cast in a T-Zone or T-Mobile's wireless web portal. So if you can, do it.

Enough talk, let's get it on.

WEST

FORWARD: ANDREI KIRILENKO Utah Jazz. He's coming off the bench now as one of the best sixth men in the league. He's getting 14 PPG on 55% shooting, 6.8 RPG, 2.9 APG 1.1 SPG and 1.4 BPG. He's an all-around player, efficient on both sides of the ball helping his team to a 6-1 record, which includes winning five straight. If he keeps this up, he'll make his first all-star team.

FORWARD: LAMARCUS ALDRIDGE Portland Trail Blazers. Aldridge, in only his third year, will be a dominant force in the NBA with his ability shoot. His numbers are 18.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG and 1.4 BPG. He has the ability to have a 20-10 game and he's had a 24 point, 13 rebound outing this year already. In the future when he's working with Greg Oden, the Blazers frontcourt will be a force to be reckoned with.

GUARD: KEVIN MARTIN Sacramento Kings. K-Mart looks like he's back with a vengence. He's come out as more agressive and has made his case on a 4-game homestand after starting 0-4 on the road. He's averaged 28.7 PPG on 53% shooting, 3 RPG, 3.7 APG and 1.6 SPG, leading the Kings on a 3-game win streak at home. Unfortunately, he re-sprained his ankle against the Warriors, but he should be back in a week. Otherwise, with some all-star moves early on in the season he's sure to make his case to get on the team again this season.

GUARD: STEPHEN JACKSON Golden State Warriors. Since Baron Davis left for the Clippers and Monta Ellis was injured and out until January and now Corey Maggette injured, Captain Jack has taken charge of the team with the best numbers of his career so far. He's averaged 23.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 5.6 APG and 1.4 SPG. Even though the team has struggled with a 2-5 record, he's doing everything he can to get his team through some tough times.

CENTER: ANDRIS BIEDRINS Golden State Warriors. Biedrins has been very good early on. Averaging 16.8 PPG on 53% shooting, 14.3 RPG 1 SPG and 1.8 BPG, Biedrins is an unstoppable force on both ends on the floor. He fights for every board, which is why he averages nearly five offensive RPG. There's no other way to put it, he's the best center in the West on the ballot.

EAST

FORWARD: ZACH RANDOLPH New York Knicks. So far, he's stayed out of trouble. Maybe Mike D'Antoni straightened him out. He's averaging 19 PPG, 11.5 RPG and 1.5 SPG as the Knicks' new center at 6'9. He's also helped lead the team to a 4-3 record. As long as he stays out of trouble and puts up some good numbers, I'll vote him. If he's really changed, there's a spot on the team for him.

FORWARD: TAYSHAUN PRINCE Detroit Pistons. In 2005, Ben and Rasheed Wallace, Rip Hamilton and Chauncey Billups were all-stars. Prince was the only one of the starting five who wasn't chosen. I think it's time he became one. He's averaging 18.7 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 2.6 APG and 0.9 BPG. He's really coming into his own. Don't worried about him being injury prone, he's an iron man. He's started in all 82 games for four straight seasons. He's played in all 82 games for five straight seasons. Even with Allen Iverson coming in, it's still Prince's time to shine.

GUARD: JOSE CALDERON Toronto Raptors. The Spanish Sensation up north, Calderon is starring beside Chris Bosh and Jermaine O'Neal. He's averaging 13.5 PPG and 9 APG and has over a 5:1 assist-to-turnover ratio. He was a big part of the Spanish National Team in the Olympics before he was injured, missing the gold medal game. Calderon came out of nowhere last year when T.J. Ford was injured. Now with the starting role he continues to shine.

GUARD: JOE JOHNSON Atlanta Hawks. JJ has led this team to 6-game winning streak to start the season, and he was questioned by Paul Pierce last year on why he made the team last year over Ray Allen initially. He's averaging 24.4 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 4.9 APG and 1.6 SPG in an effort to make sure the Hawks finish better than an eight seed. He and the Hawks are making sure that the whole NBA knows and Johnson is the perfect canidate for the Hawks.

CENTER: ANDREW BOGUT Milwaukee Bucks. He's probably one of the most balanced centers in the East right now when it comes to stats, but he's done better in the past. Averaging 10.1 PPG, 10 RPG, 1.2 SPG and 1.1 BPG, he's ready to prove that he earned his extension. He's playing with two very good scorers in Michael Redd and Richard Jefferson, but if he gets rolling like he did at the end of last season, the Bucks can start see some wins coming their way.

WRITE-IN: NENE Denver Nuggets. Filling the void Marcus Camby left at center when he was traded, he's bounced back from testicular cancer to play one of the best seasons of his career so far. He's avveraging 15.6 PPG on 67.2% shooting, 8.9 RPG, 1.4 SPG and 2 BPG in a bounce back season when it looked like his career may have been over. Now it's about staying healthy for his team because he's a key piece. Without him, even with Chauncey Billups they can't think about the playoffs. Nené is that important.

LAST THOUGHTS: There's a few newcomers on the ballot. Yi Jianlian, after getting a lot of votes as a write-in last year, is on the ballot this year. Rookies Derrick Rose, Michael Beasley, O.J. Mayo and Greg Oden have made the ballot as well. If you haven't noticed, there're five international players that I've picked. Kirilenko (Russia), Biedrins (Latvia), Calderon (Spain), Bogut (Australia) and Nené (Brazil). It's amazing how many good players there are from overseas. Rudy Fernandez and Ricky Rubio could be next.

I'm done now, so go vote. There's 67 days left to do it, and you can do it every day. Be on the lookout for Part 2 in a couple of weeks.

Iverson's New Look

Allen Iverson will wear Chauncey Billups' old #1 uniform, since Rodney Stuckey is wearing #3. I can imagine the Chauncey will wear #3 when he gets to Denver, since J.R. Smith wears #1. Underneath are some of the many uniforms AI's seen since 1996 up until now.

Rookie AI 1996

2001 NBA Finals


Alternate Blue Uniform

Retro Syracuse Nationals

Europe Live 2006 (Spain)

Denver Nuggets Home Uniform

Nuggets Road Uniform

Nuggets Alternate Road Uniform

Analysis on the Iverson-Billups Trade, Hamilton Extended

According to ESPN, the Denver Nuggets' guard Allen Iverson has been traded to the Detroit Pistons for point guard Chauncey Billups and power forward Antonio McDyess.

Now that's a sign of rebuilding, for both Nuggets and Pistons. The Pistons are going to see $20 million that they wouldn't have had since Billups is signed for 3 more years and an option for the 4th. Now, it seems like that'll be the Nuggets problem, or not. With Billups from a perennial championship contender, two time Eastern Conference finalist and 2004 MVP, he can bring the Nuggets very valuable veteran experience. He's signed through 2011 with a team option for 2012. Although it doesn't fill the void Marcus Camby left when he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, he's a good defensive guard from a team who was known for defensive.

Denver Nuggets

Ever since getting booted out of the first round of the playoffs last year by the Los Angeles Lakers, Charles Barkley branded the high scoring team the "Enver Nuggets" for their lack of D. With Billups and Antonio McDeyss, defense, at least at the point, could be coming their way. Billups is a stronger guard than AI, though not as fast. Him and Melo are especially good in late game situations. They don't call him Mr. Big Shot for nothing. One man can't slow down a whole team by himself. The Nuggets are going to have to defend to even think about getting out of the first round, even with Billups.

Ever since Melo was drafted in 2003 the Nuggets have been kicked out of the first round ever since. The trade for AI in 2006 didn't change that either. With Camby gone the Nuggets, who finished in 8th place last year, are the favorites to miss the playoffs. If the Nuggets can do more than try to outscore their opponents and defend, with Billups on their side they can get out of the first round. He hasn't gotten out of the first round since 2001 and 2002, when he and Kevin Garnett were teammates.

Here's a side story. For McDyess, who's contract expires next year, it'll be a homecoming for him, again. This will be his third stint with Denver. After his first 2 years as a Nugget and spending 4 more being trade to Phoenix, he was on pace to be a solid star in the NBA, averaging 20.8 PPG and 12.1 RPG in the 2000-01 season. After a horrible season ending knee injury the next season, he never got his career back on track. He got on board with the Pistons too late and now he's a Nugget again.

If the high scoring continues, Billups' assist numbers will go up, but can he keep up with the running game. He's from a team that controlled the tempo, usually at a low pace. If he can't keep up, scoring goes down, the only thing that keeps them winning. They'll be rebuilding starting next year. Extension talks with their back-up forward Linas Kleiza fell through and he and his agent will be looking at other teams and Europe. With only 7 gauranteed players next year, they'll be seeing some new faces very soon. They could a good free agent this summer.

Projected Line-Up: PG- Chauncey Billups, SG- J.R. Smith, SF- Carmelo Anthony, PF- Kenyon Martin, C- Nené

Detroit Pistons

Low scoring isn't a problem when the team they play scores lower than them. With AI heading back east, this team could be able to compete with the Boston Celtics in the conference finals again if there scoring increases. Despite his age AI never seems to slow down his speed and scoring, even with a high scorer on his side like Melo. He led the team last year with 26.4 PPG. If he can score and the they can play D, this team can be very good throughout the season.

This might be their last chance for a championship though. Next year, Rasheed Wallace and AI will be free agents. With young guys like Rodney Stuckey, Amir Johnson and Jason Maxiell on board and Rip Hamilton agreeing to a 3-year, $34 million contract (more details on bottom), the youth movement could be underway next season. They'll also have a lot more cap space and they can go for a big free agent in 2009 or 2010.

Projected Line-Up: PG- Allen Iverson, SG- Rip Hamilton, SF- Tayshaun Prince, PF- Amir Johnson, C- Rasheed Wallace

In the end, the trade will work right now and in the near future for the Pistons. For the Nuggets, it might be a project. It should be fun to see how this trade turns out. Watch out for January 9 when AI reurns to the Mile High City as a Piston, March 3 when Chauncey returns to Motown. AI will play the Sixers for the first time this year on December 5 and will play his only game at Philly on April 4.

Late Breaking News: Rip Hamilton and the Pistons agreed to a 3-year, $34 million extension, according to ESPN through team sources. The third year is also partially guaranteed, but it looks like he'll be part of their future. He could also be a trade piece if things don't work out. It's possible with an contract making over $11 million a year.

David Lee Won't Get Extension

The New York Knicks' David Lee, along with Nate Robinson, will become restricted free agents July 1 of next year, according to the New York Post. The 25-year-old Lee is set to have a career year starting at power forward since new head caoch Mike D'Antoni benched an out of shape Eddy Curry and moved Zach Randolph to center. The 6'9, 240 pound Lee averaged 10.8 PPG and 8.9 RPG in 81 games last season, 52 games off the bench. He's more than capable of averaging double doubles when he averaged 10.7 PPG and 10.4 RPG.

He's shown everyone in the Knicks' franchise that he deserves an extension. When he started for the Knicks last year his 13 PPG and 10.3 RPG were identical or near identical to Lamar Odom, Shawn Marion and Emeka Okafor. Sure, 2010 is coming and all those superstars, including NY friendly LeBron James, will be on the market, but if you don't lock up a double double, someone else might. New GM Donnie Walsh is not convinced.

Mark Bartlestein, Lee's agent, said this about Walsh's decision in the New York Post.

"I don't anticipate getting something done. As it stands, I don't think it will happen. Donnie is still in the evaluation process with this team. I think he understands David has great value in the league, but is cautious to make a long-term commitment before he gets a feeling what direction his team is going."

Walsh agreed with this response.

"I don't want to make a flat statement, but I don't think we're at a point I can say we're going to extend him. I definitely want to keep Dave and Nate, but you don't have to do it now, you could do it in the summer."

They're plenty of teams in need of a promising young power forward that can throw some money after this season.

• Chicago Bulls
• Denver Nuggets
• Oklahoma City Thunder
• Sacramento Kings
• Utah Jazz (if Carlos Boozer bolts)

If any team throws more money than the Knicks are willing to match or if they're unwilling pay for Lee's asking price, unless Lee really wants to play for the Knicks, he's gone. By 2010, Stephon Marbury, Quentin Richardson, Jerome James and possibly, but not likely, Curry will be off the books. The Knicks have also been trying to shop the troubled Randolph, but couldn't get a deal done with the Memphis Grizzlies because of a dispute over next year's first round draft pick from the Grizzlies.

By then, the Knicks could be spending between $35-50 million before free agency, depending on who's there or not. They could be spending at least $5-15 million more if they keep Lee and/or Robinson. That would destroy the Knicks plans for 2010. Robinson averaged 16.2 PPG and 3.5 APG in 17 starts, but Lee is still a more valuable player. The Knicks might have to let Robinson go.

Lee is a must have for the Knicks' future. They're sure to land a free agent 2 years from now, LeBron or not. If you can only keep one, keep the one who gets double doubles off the bench.

Travelin' Man Bobby Jones

Bobby Jones is the most traveled NBA player in the least amount of time. He was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves but played for the Philadelphia 76ers his rookie year. He was traded and cut by the Denver Nuggets last year and signed with the Memphis Grizzlies, Houston Rockets, Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs on 10-day contracts. He re-signed with the Nuggets, traded to and cut by the New York Knicks in the summer, claimed and cut by Miami and picked up by the Sacramento Kings in training camp.

In three years, that's nine teams, 30% of the NBA. He's been moved 11 times and gone through the Nuggets and Heat twice. That doesn't include his D-League stint with the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Do you know how many uniforms he has?

He's only got a taste of what it means to be with one team when he played 41 games with the Sixers. Eight moves later he's wearing #25 for the Kings. The experience he's had constantly joining and leaving teams, that's all the motivation he needs to grab the Kings' last roster spot, not be cut with Noel Felix or join China's Zhang Kai, who's already been cut.

Jones shined the most during his 6-game stay with the Heat where he averaged 8 PPG on 53.1% shooting and 4 RPG. Even though the Heat could use any player they could grab during during their horrible 15-67 season, they don't sign him. In over 23 minutes of play per game, it was shown that even off the bench, if he was given minutes he can produce as a role player.

If he does make the team, he won't be getting much playing time. He stands behind starting small forward John Salmons, 6th man Francisco Garcia and rookie Donté Greene, who also looks at limited minutes. Greene, however, was impressive with 12 of his 18 points in the last 4:31 of the game against the Blazers. Even so, every position would be filled if he makes the roster (as shown below paragraph). The Kings could use help at the small forward position, so it wouldn't be a bad idea to add another swingman to the roster. If anyone got hurt there, he could at least fill in for a few minutes.

PG: Beno Udrih, Bobby Jackson, Bobby Brown
SG: Kevin Martin, Francisco Garcia, Quincy Douby
SF: John Salmons, Donté Greene, Bobby Jones
PF: Mikki Moore, Jason Thompson, Shelden Williams, Kenny Thomas
C: Brad Miller, Spencer Hawes

How I met Jones, I walked into the Kings' Fandemonium at ARCO Arena and saw him right in front of the doorway inside, asked a security guard who he was, because I didn't know if it was him or Felix. It was Jones, and I told him that I heard a lot about him and that I hoped that he made the team. Of course, he said that he did too. "You have the opportunity to play and show this team that you belong here," Jones said in the Sacramento Bee. "So, am I nervous? Yeah, but it's basketball at the end of the day, and I've been doing it awhile."

Coach Reggie Theus mentioned that the team might be trimmed to 15 within the week and Zhang was already cut after the loss to the Blazers, so Jones has to step up his game and score against the Oklahoma City Thunder after the 0 points, 3 rebounds and 2 TOs in 9:30. Hopefully, he'll get himself going and finally land on an NBA team that he can call home.

Trade Possibilities for Jamaal Tinsley

The Indiana Pacers traded for T.J. Ford, sending Tinsley a clear message that he was unwelcome in Indiana. Even with back-up point guard Travis Diener out indfinitely with a foot injury, Tinsley is still chillin' at home in ATL. Progress was being made to send him to Denver but it was denied he was traded there. If the Pacers want to get Tinsley out, they need a point guard in return in case if injury-prone Ford ever gets hurt again. Tinsley isn't the easiest person to shop with his off-court problems. If any team wants him though, the Hawks, Warriors, Hornets, Thunder and Magic could all use Tinsley and give the Pacers who they want.

Atlanta Hawks: Mike Bibby for Tinsley and Rasho Nesterovic

31-year-old Bibby is on the tail end of his career. Two years ago, he was one of the premier point guards in the NBA averaging 21.1 PPG and 5.4 APG for the Kings. After being traded to the Hawks last season, he averaged 14.1 PPG and 6.5 APG and career playoff lows of 10.3 PPG and 3.1 APG.

Atlanta trading for Tinsley would be a better move for them than keeping Bibby. It also saves Tinsley the expense of moving out. Although Bibby outscores him by by 2 PPG, Tinsley is a better defender and distributor. Tinsley also turns 31 this year but is playing better than Bibby. Acie Law might not be ready to take over yet. Flip Murray signed with the Hawks and sparked a run for the playoffs for Indiana and barely missed it, but Tinsley will have a better impact. It also give them a quality point guard for 3 years. Nesterovic is just a trading piece to make the trade go through.

Indiana getting Bibby would give them cap space for next year to give Danny Granger an extension. Plus, you have Bibby backing up T.J. Ford. Bibby can play well with other point guards on the same floor. When Ford is on the floor, Bibby can play shooting guard, just like he did with Bobby Jackson and most recently, Beno Udrih. Good trade for both teams.

Golden State Warriors: Al Harrington and C.J. Watson for Tinsley and Shawne Williams

Golden State could really use a point guard right now with the injury to Monta Ellis. In the lead for the starting spot is C.J. Watson. Those competing for a spot are Marcus Williams, DeMarcus Nelson and recently signed Dan Dickau. Tinsley would be an instant upgrade over all of them. I have a feeling that the Warriors don't want Troy Murphy or Mike Dunleavy back.

Al Harrington's already been through Indiana twice. He averaged 13.6 PPG and 5.4 RPG last year. Getting him would give them a line-up of Murphy, Harrington, Granger, Dunleavy and Ford. Not that bad of a line-up. Harrington has an option to play for one more year and will most likely take it, but they'll be in contention this year. Watson and Travis Diener will contend to back-up Ford.

Tinsley would definitely help the Warriors' point guard troubles, with Stephen Jackson, Corey Maggette, Ronny Turiaf and Andris Biedrins. The trade would give Turiaf, Brandan Wright, Anthony Randolph a chance to start for the Warriors. Williams would be tossed to the side. The loss of Baron Davis is huge, but Tinsley, if he acts right, could keep their hopes alive once Ellis comes back.

New Orleans Hornets: Mike James for Tinsley

If the Hornets have any glaring weaknesses right now, it's their depth at point gurad. They have the game's best point in Chris Paul, but no one to back him up. Jannero Pargo left for Russia and they're summer league star Bobby Brown signed with the Kings. Those minutes could take a toll on Paul at the end of the season, but Tinsley could play well as a back-up and give him time to relax. He only gets 11 minutes rest on average. Tinsley's a better player than James and they could really use his help.

Mike James was put in a position where he can't start, and he hasn't played well as a back-up to Chris Paul and played OK behind Rafer Alston before he was traded from the Houston Rockets. He's 33, but it's shown in the past that James performs better when given minutes. If Ford gets hurt again, James' performs better when he starts. He also has one year left on his contract, so it's a good trade for both parties.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Earl Watson for Tinsley

Russell Westbrook is the Thunder's point guard of the furture, but they can't really look at the playoffs until four years from now. Tinsley could speed up the process, playing next to ROY Durant and Oklahoma favorite Desmond Mason. He's one of the better defensive point guards in the league and can pass that on to Westbrook.

Watson is a very underrated point guard with 10.7 PPG and 6.8 APG with the Seattle Supersonics last season. He would be a very valuable back-up if anything happened to Ford. He's one of the more underrated distributors in the game and could help Indiana make it into the playoffs. Watson, who turns 30 next year, has three years left on his contract, but he is a valuable player to any team.

Orlando Magic: Jameer Nelson for Tinsley

If the Magic want to become championship contenders, they wait for Nelson. If they want to become contenders now, they get Tinsley. Tinsley is also a better defender and distributor than Nelson and could be the difference maker. He'd be a talent boost on a team that doesn't have to worry about anyone moving for a while, except for the fact that Hedo Turkoglu wants to opt-out next year for a pay raise.

Nelson only missed 13 games, but out of the 69 he did play he missed 7 starts. He started in all 77 games he played the year before. His numbers have gone down every season, probably because the emergence of Dwight Howard. Nelson would still be a reliable back-up to T.J. Ford. He's only 26 and averages 10.9 PPG and 5.6 APG.

Any one of these teams could use Tinsley and he could make them better. It's all about if they want to take the risk that comes with him. His stats are at an all-star caliber, and if he gets his act together, he'll be one of the league's best.

Donte Greene Goes off for 40 on Day 4

Rockets (1-0) v. Suns (0-1)

We got our first 40 point performance, thanks to Donte Greene leading the Rockets past the Suns 100-97, the highest scoring game yet. Greene, who also had 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals, shot 12-20 from the field, 5-10 beyond the arc, 11-12 free throws and 36 of his points came from the first 3 quarters. Mike Harris also played big with 21 points on 9-14 shooting and 13 rebounds while Maarty (with 2 A's) Leunen had 16 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists off the bench. Aaron Brooks had 13 points and 4 rebounds.

D.J. Strawberry, son of former baseball player Darryl Strawberry, put up 22 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, a block and a steal. Alando Tucker also posted 22 points and 6 rebounds, along with 2 assists. In his debut, Robin Lopez, twin brother of Brook had 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks while Iowa State's Jiri Hubalek had 10 points and 3 rebounds off the bench.

Knicks (1-0) v. Cavaliers (0-1)

In another thriller, Wilson Chandler led the Knicks to a 97-94 win, putting up 26 points, 8 boards, 3 assists, 2 blocks and 2 steals. Alan Roberson had a great night with 22 points, 2 assists and a block while Mardy Collins had 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Danillo Gallinari made his debut with 14 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and a block.

Rookie J.J. Hickson also had a solid debut with 26 points and 9 rebounds for the Cavs, and Clay Tucker had 17 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks off the bench. Darnell Jackson 10 points and 8 rebounds, Mike Green had 4 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, a block and a steal, and Robert "Tractor" Traylor had 8 points 3 rebounds and a block after spending some time out of the NBA recovering from heart surgery.

Blazers (1-0) v. Wizards (0-1)

Jerryd Bayless scored 28 points (with the help of 18 free throws made) and 4 rebounds in his debut to help the Blazers edge the Wizards 78-73. Finland's Petteri Koponen pitched in 19 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists and a steal, while Josh Davis added 10 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks and Bernard Robinson had 7 points, 7 rebounds and a block.

Andray Blatche came in and dropped 17 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals and a block for the Wizards and Nick Young chipped in 17 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Wake Forest's Frank Elegar had 10 points and 4 rebounds while both Dominique McGuire and Vladimir Veremeenko each had 6 points 5 boards and a block. JaVale McGee had 11 points and 3 blocks.

Nuggets (2-0) v. Raptors (0-2)

Taurean Green led his team with 17 points on 3-3 shooting and hitting 9 free throws, along with 3 rebounds and 4 assists, leading his team to a 90-79 win over the Raps. Elton Brown had a double double with 11 points and 10 rebounds while Dhantay Jones posted 16 points and 3 rebounds. Bobby Jones, Mike Hall and Curtis Sumpter, all had 10 points and 4 rebounds.

Joey Graham had 16 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists for the Raptors and John Lucas had 11 points 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Coleman Collins 11 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal. C.J. Giles put up 8 points, 4 rebounds, 4 blocks and a steal.

Mavericks (1-2) v. (0-1) Timberwolves

Reyshawn Terry starred off the bench with 15 points, 4 rebounds and a block in the Mavs first summer league win 88-74. Jajuan Smith had 19 points and a steal while Shan Foster had 17 points and 3 rebounds. Pape Sow had 6 points, 6 rebounds and a block and James Singleton had 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal. Gerald Green did not play.

Kevin Love debuted in the T'Wolves first games, with 18 points, 13 rebounds and a steal. Sophomore Corey Brewer had 11 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and a steal while Blake Ahearn had 17 points off the bench. Chris Richard had 4 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal and Pooh Jeter had 9 points and 5 assists.

Spurs (1-0) v. Grizzlies (2-1)

Ian Mahinmi helped the Spurs fend off a late Grizzlies rally to win 78-76 in their summer league debut. Mahinmi led the team with 18 points and 8 rebounds and George Hill put in 17 points and 8 rebounds. Anthony Tolliver had 13 points and 4 rebounds and Devin Green had 12 points, 4 rebounds and a steal.

Darrell Arthur had a bounce back game and led the Grizzlies with 23 points, 6 rebounds and a block while O.J. Mayo had 18 points on 5-17 shooting, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. He also hit a 67 foot shot. P.J. Tucker 12 points, 9 rebounds off the bench, 2 steals and a block while Ebi Ere had 11 points and a block off the bench. Javaris Crittenton had 6 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Day 4 had the best performance yet from Donte Greene. Hopefully, the best is yet to come.

Summer League Recap: Day 2 & Rankings

On day 2, many players put out great effort.

Kings v. Raptors

In the kick-off game, Spencer Hawes had one of the top performances of the day with 23 points and 9 rebounds in a winning effort against the Raps. Shelden Williams posted a double double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Quincy Douby had 20 points, 2 rebounds, 3 steals and a block. Jason Thompson, the surprise lottery pick, got hot late with 12 points, 7 rebounds and a block and Sean Singletary had 9 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals in the game. Good all-around team effort.

The Raps' Joey Graham, twin brother of the Pacers' Stephen Graham, had a game high 24 points to go with 8 boards and a steal. Deji Akindele had 13 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks while Jaycee Carroll had 14 points in 14 minutes off the bench. John Lucas had 10 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and a steal while Hassan Adames finished with 9 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Joel Bosh, brother of Raptors' star forward Chris Bosh, did not play.

Grizzlies v. Bucks

O.J. Mayo stepped up big for the Grizzlies, putting up 26 points, 5 rebounds, an assist and a steal, leading the team to a 88-79 win over the Bucks. P.J. Tucker had another great night with 11 points, 8 boards and a block. Javaris Crittenton put up all sixes, 6 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and German Malick Badiane put up 9 points and 6 rebounds. Mike Conley had 8 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists and Darrell Arthur had 10 points and 4 rebounds.

The Bucks' Ramon Sessions had 12 points, 9 assists and 2 rebounds and Trey Johnson had 12 points and 7 rebounds. Matt Freije's 3 of his 4 made shots were 3 pointers for 11 points off the bench and Darius Washington had 9 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal.

Bobcats v. Clippers

D.J. Augustin and the Bobcats toppled the Clippers 81-66. Augustin made his debut and led his team with 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals , while rookie D.J. 15 points, 8 rebounds and a block. Kyle Hines had 7 points and 5 rebounds off the bench while Guillermo Diaz came off with him with 9 points and 3 rebounds. Orien Greene had 6 points 3 rebounds, 3 assists and a steal after playing most of the year with the New Zealand Breakers.

Clippers' sophomore Al Thornton highlighted the night with 22 points, 7 rebounds and a block. Eric Gordon had a better shooting game with 15 points on 4-10 shooting, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Mike Taylor, from Iowa State, had 10 points while DeAndre Jordan had 4 points and 6 rebounds. Jordan, through 2 games, is showing why he was a 2nd round pick.

Nuggets v. Sixers

Even in the summer league, the Nuggets continue their high scoring ways outdueling the Sixers 99-85. Dhantay Jones was shining with 21 points. Sonny Weems had 17 points in 20 minutes off the bench for the Nuggets while Elton Brown posted a double double with 13 points and 11 boards. George Washington's Mike Hall had 12 points 8 rebounds and 2 assists while Keith Langford added 14 points and 3 assists in 16 minutes.

Although Thaddeus Young continues to score, his team is now 0-2. Young had 22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. Marreese Speights also cooled off from last night's performance, putting up 14 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. Jamont Gordon had 12 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and a steal for the night. Jason Smith had a good night with 15 points and 4 rebounds.

Now, only 7 teams have to wait to make their debut until Monday including Knicks v. Cavs, Suns v. Rockets, Wizards v. Blazers and the Spurs debuting against the Grizzlies.

Now that a couple of days have gone by, here are the first player and rookie rankings of the summer league.

Player Rankings

1. Anthony Randolph (GSW): 30, 8, 1, 2, 2 (1-0)
2. O.J. Mayo (MEM): 20.5, 4, 3, 2, 0.5 (2-0)
3. Spencer Hawes (SAC): 23, 9, 2, 0, 0 (1-0)
4. Al Thornton (LAC): 21, 7, 0.5, 0, 1 (1-1)
5. Thaddeus Young (PHI): 24.5, 5.5, 1.5, 1, 0.5 (0-2)
6. Rodney Stuckey (DET): 21, 5, 4, 1, 0 (1-0)
7. P.J. Tucker (MEM): 14, 8, 1.5, 2, 0.5 (2-0)
8. Joey Graham (TOR): 24, 8, 0, 1, 0 (0-1)
9. Shelden Williams (SAC): 16, 10, 2, 0, 0 (1-0)
10. Eric Gordon (LAC) 19, 5.5, 2, 1, 1 (1-1)



Rookie Rankings

1. Anthony Randolph (GSW): 30, 8, 1, 2, 2 (1-0)
2. O.J. Mayo (MEM): 20.5, 4, 3, 2, 0.5 (2-0)
3. Eric Gordon (LAC): 19, 5.5, 2, 1, 1 (1-1)
4. Marreese Speights (PHI): 18, 9, 0, 0, 1.5 (0-2)
5. D.J. Augustin (CHA): 14, 3, 2, 2, 0 (1-0)
6. Deji Akindele (TOR): 13, 7, 0, 1, 2 (0-1)
7. Jason Thompson (SAC): 12, 7, 1, 0, 1 (1-0)
8. Darrell Arthur (MEM): 14, 3.5, 1, 1, 1 (0-2)
9. Trey Johnson (MIL): 12, 7, 0, 1, 0 (0-1)
10. Sonny Weems (DEN): 17, 3, 0, 0, 0 (1-0)

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.