Counting down to July 1st, 2010: Will LeBron stay or go?

 
               It was ugly. "Win a Ring for the King" no more. The Cavaliers left the court in Boston with their tales between their legs. Bowing out to the savvy vets with three straight embarrassing losses. It was shocking to see this team, with the best regular season record the past two years, exposed, out-coached, and out hustled on the court in this series. And now both LeBron and the Cavaliers franchise are at a cross-road. Will he stay or will he go?

                No city ever needed one player more than Cleveland needs LeBron. LeBron has single handily taken the Cavaliers franchise from the dead and back to relevance. He took the team who averaged only 11,000 fans a game the year before his arrival and has sold it out consistently (The Q arena seats 20,562). During the months of November through April he has made downtown Cleveland once again profitable. Everything comes back to one guy. LeBron James. The service industry relies on him, the hospitality industry relies on him, and the hopes of  two cities and a generation rely on him. LeBron has turned Cleveland into a destination once again and if he would leave via Free Agency this summer the ramifications run deeper than just basketball, it literally affects the whole economy within Cleveland. He was born here, raised here, and plays here and the hope is he stays here.

               Dan Gilbert, Cavaliers majority owner, is committed to the city and the franchise. He has repeatedly stressed the fact that his ultimate goal is to deliver a title to the great fans of Cleveland. He has shown the willingness to spend the money and surround LeBron with the pieces to accomplish that goal. Before every move is made to acquire talent they consult James. No one player has so much say within an organization as LeBron. Gilbert realizes the key to this relationship is to keep his star happy.GM Danny Ferry has went out and made some bold trades to strengthen the team and to make a run for the title. The willingness to win is here. Gilbert must keep his star happy. I believe you will see some major shake-ups within the organization. Look for them to fire Coach Mike Brown and hire LeBron's hand picked guy. I also believe you will see major roster changes via trades and free agency. GM Danny Ferry could be out as well, to date the trades he has made have yet to pan out and deliver a title.

               In the end I believe LeBron stays in Cleveland. He sees that if he would leave they may label him as a star who needed to seek out help. Magic stayed in LA, Michael stayed in Chicago, Kobe stayed in LA, and Bird stayed in Boston. They finished what they started, and delivered Championships.That label could follow and haunt Lebron for years to come. But he has built an empire within the city. He loves the fact that his family and friends can come see him when they please. He has a very deep attachment to the city of Akron where he was born and raised and a beautiful house in Bath, OH. His longtime girlfriend is from here, his kids born here and raised here. The roots run deep. He realizes the importance of staying here and delivering the promise of a title for these fans. If he can do it here he will be immortalized in Cleveland sports history as "The Chosen One".

            

Believeland!!

                  As I wake up on this cloudy, rainy, gloomy day in Cleveland, OH I sense hope. Call it blind faith, but I believe this thing will be turned around. With the city on the verge of another let down I can't help to think there is no way it ends like this. What's at stake tonight is more than just Game 6, it could possibly be the end of the season and the end of LeBron's Cavalier career. So pardon me if I'm overly optimistic, but something tells me LeBron won't let this happen.
                  The Playoffs: A time where Champions are made and Dreams are shattered. I feel that we will look back on this series come June and say "I can't believe we ever doubted LeBron". There will be a parade. I keep asking fans around town "Did you think this road would be easy?" most reply no, but they are so quick to write this team off after that dismal Game 5 performance at home. Cleveland you supported this team this far, why abandon ship now? This town is 24 hours away from this being a one game series with Game 7 in our house. In a series you don't have to play seven great games, you need to play just four to win. The Cavs still have that chance with two games remaining. So quit whining woe-is-me Cavs fans. Quit bringing up past Sports failures and ghosts from the past. This time its different.
                 If this series turns in the favor of the Cavaliers it may just exorcise the demons of the past. It may just be what this beaten up sports town needs. Hope. But if you flood your mind with the negativity of Game 5 or all the past failures of our sports teams you will never move forward. It is time to stand "All Together" fans. Support your team tonight as you did all year. Don't go quietly, for this could be the end of a franchise and era as we know it.

"All Together" Keep the Faith

            The fallout from the Cavaliers Game 5 loss is unreal. The City of Cleveland has resorted to its usual woe-is-me attitude. The anger and disappointment is interfering with their thought process. The series is not over.  I repeat it is not over. Maybe they figure a little stress will make you enjoy that Title a little more. Whatever their thinking is, the Cavaliers need to step it up because now its Win or Go Home.
            I along with everyone else figured that Game 5, at home, would result in a Cavaliers win. Coming off the less than stellar game in Boston on Sunday we all thought LeBron would come out angry and determined to take control of this series. I mean it could've been potentially his last game at home in a Cavaliers uniform. I hate to say it but we were wrong. LeBron looked dis-interested and uninvolved the whole night. There were shots of him standing on the perimeter while his teammates were battling it down low. You can't let a veteran team like the Celtics come in to YOUR house and play their game. You will lose, and lose badly. The Cavaliers did not play their game. In fact it looked the whole night like they were confused on assignments and scared to shoot. Tentative play does not win games. Boston came out ready to play. A veteran bunch, they knew how important of a swing game this was. They executed and outplayed the Cavaliers the final 3 quarters.
            So now we move on to Game 6 in Boston. This is it. Win or Go Home. You have the right to panic, but chew on this. Let's go back to 2007 Eastern Conference Finals. The Cavaliers down 3-1 against the mighty Detroit Pistons. Do you recall what happened? Backs against the wall we won the next 3 games, including Game 5 when LeBron went off for 25 straight points. At the end of the day you have to shake the negative woe-is-me attitude and BELIEVE. If you keeping bringing up past failures and curses you will never win a thing. Its starts in your head.
             It is time Cleveland. Its time to Keep the Faith and shake the woe-is-me once and for all. It is time for us to stand "All Together" and back this team. You came this far, why turn your backs on them now?

Don't Tase me Bro!

            The other night I was watching highlights and on came the Philadelphia Phillies highlights. A young man named Steve Consalvi stole the show. The young Consalvi, 17 years of age, decided that he couldn't pass up this chance of a lifetime. He even went to lengths to call his father and ask permission to run onto the field. The elder Consalvi forewarned his son that its not a good idea. Well, Steve didn't head his fathers warning. What came next Steve may never forget.

              After getting enough courage Consalvi stormed the field. Running around, waving a white T-shirt, and eluding the authorities. Or so he thought. A Philadelphia Police officer, chasing Consalvi, pulled up and fire a taser into his back. Consalvi fell face first to the turf and was escorted off the field. So was this necessary? Its been debated everywhere as of late. Was it excessive force?

            I think what we fail to realize here is that the players are concerned for their safety. After the 1st base of the Royals was attacked and beaten on the field in Chicago does anyone blame them? When you enter a stadium you agree to play by their rules. So when you break the law of the establishment you should be disciplined. But tasering? Maybe it is the best way to handle it. Think about it.

            Before this incident fans that charged the field would be chased and tackled. Some even clotheslined. I mean there is a big chance at physical injury with these tactics. And don't get me wrong tasering in itself has plenty of side effects and risks in it own. I'm not sure which way is a better way, both have their own risks. Maybe we should do to our stadiums what they do at soccer stadiums around the world. Put a moat and fence that separates the fans from the field. They'll fix it.

What Elbow? LeBron Dominates, Cavs take 2-1 series lead

                Well Cavs fans how do feel today? Better? You should. The Cleveland Cavaliers are coming off their most complete performance in the 2010 NBA Playoffs. They came out with energy and fire from the start, and it started with the reigning two-time MVP. So has the attitude changed here in "Believeland"? Are the talks of a Curse shelved after that dominating road performance?
                LeBron was aggressive out the gates, scoring 21 points in the 1st quarter and 28 points total in the 1st half. What elbow? I think the elbow may be just fine after tonight. He set a franchise record with the 21 in the 1st quarter. Boston had no answer for the King. Tonight was his night. And when he goes so do his teammates. The Cavaliers shot a blistering 59% from the field last night. It seemed that no matter who was shooting, the ball was going in from everywhere. They ended up with all 5 starters in double figures, and even Delonte West. It was an impressive performance by the Cavaliers who  to date have looked very average in the Playoffs. Cleveland came out last night and put together its best game since Game 4 in Chicago. They also served Boston their worst Home Playoff loss in franchise history beating the Celtics by 29.
                Now the question is what team will show up on Sunday? Will it be the well-oiled freight train that ripped the Celtics by 29 in Game 3, or will it be the team that was embarrassed on their home court in Game 2? My bet is you see the Game 3 Cavaliers. The opportunity to go up 3-1 on this experienced group of Celtics is too good to pass up. They seem to have that sense of urgency after the Game 2 loss as well. I think that loss may be the best thing that has happened to them, just because of the fact they realized they must play 48 minutes. They can't just turn it on whenever they want.

Major League Rebirth: The 2010 Cleveland Indians

               The biggest benefactors of the Cavaliers Playoff run is the Cleveland Indians. Why you ask? Because no one is paying attention to their slow start once again. The Indians finished April with a 9-13 record. Under .500 once again. And honestly the chances of this club improving to anything better is slim to none. The Indians enter a season where the consensus prediction is that they will finish in last place. For the first year since 1994 the Indians are projected to be bad, real bad. The lack of talented starting pitching, and bullpen help has the Tribe searching for answers. Not to mention a lineup with no serious threat in the middle. Its safe to say this team has the least amount of talent than any Indians team to grace the field. And truthfully it seems that there is little hope.
              The Indians are owned by the Dolan family. Since the Dolan's took over ownership they have slashed payroll immensely and traded away two Cy Young award winners in back-to-back years. Not to mention trading away fan favorites Victor Martinez and not re-signing Jim Thome, Its safe to say the Dolan's have done everything in their power to alienate the faithful fans of this once proud franchise. Now I'll give GM Mark Shapiro some credit. With the budget he's been given he has done everything in his power to make the Indians competitive. But at the end of the day fans are paying top dollar for Minor League baseball. Washed up players and young inexperienced players grace Progressive Field, posing as a Major League franchise. Unfortunately until the ownership group shells out some money Indians fans are looking at just that this year, and for years to come.

Time to Panic Cleveland?

             It's only one game. I try to tell people here. I mean the series is tied 1-1. That's even, but here in Cleveland its feeling more like 3-1 to the fans. Never has one game collectively destroyed the psyche of a whole fan base. I swear the fans may begin flocking to the I-480 bridge. I know what I'm going to say next may not be well received, but I have one word for you Cavs fans. Relax.
             Yes, your team has looked flat in the first two games of this series. And yes Mike Brown has been out coached by Doc Rivers to this point. And yes again that LeBron has looked a shell of himself to this point (Not Counting the second half of Game 1). But lets not forget what they are working with. This is the same team who won 60+ games the past two years. This is the same team who boasts the back-to-back MVP. So is it too early to panic I ask?
            I picked the Cavaliers in this series and I'm sticking by my pick. I truly feel that the Celtics gave us their best shot in the first two games of the series. But in order for the Cavaliers to come out victorious and move on they have to play more inspired basketball beginning with LeBron. Now I understand that the elbow may truly be an issue. He seems to be favoring it, but LeBron is what makes this team go. He is the alpha and omega of the Cavaliers franchise, when he leads his teammates follow. When he struggles so does his team. Coming off what may be his worst Playoff performance this postseason, LeBron has to bounce back. But you dont need me to tell you that. Antawn Jamison was being abused down low by Kevin Garnett and Shaq was nowhere to be found down the stretch. The defensive performance was, well it seemed like they played no defense until the 4th quarter. Mo Williams is looking more and more like he's afraid of the pressure. Williams seems to struggle when the heat is on. After energizing the team in Game 1 with his dunk, Williams followed it up with a 1-9 performance and 4 points including 0-4 from 3-point range. And the coaching has been poor as well. Mike Brown has looked very unsure with his rotation. It's almost like he is waiting for the Celtics to make a move and then he reacts to it. Because of this the team looks very out of sync and also unsure on the court. 
           It's time to take a look in the mirror Cavaliers. It's upon yourselves to fix this. We as Cleveland Fans only naturally react to this as if it's the end of the world because of being burned in the past. It's upon you to restore our confidence in you and ease our fears of another Cleveland letdown. You have three days to reflect and get it together and come out Friday night in the Garden and play Cavaliers Basketball. Its time to be "All Together" now.
             

Growing up a Cleveland Sports Fan: A Test of Faith & a Savior named LeBron

                    So I wanted to take some time to explain what its like to grow up in Cleveland. Cleveland, OH most notably known as "The Mistake by the Lake" is my home. I was six years old when it all begun. It was 1987 and the Browns were relevant. Bernie Kosar captivated a fan base and the town was vibing. The New Year had just rung in and the Browns were getting ready to host the Denver Broncos. I was six at the time. At 4:20pm on January 11th, 1987 I got my first taste of what growing up a Cleveland fan was all about. John Elway crushed my heart. He led the Broncos on the infamous "Drive" and stomped and kicked my little heart and soul. When Rich Karlis kicked the game winning field goal in OT I cried, in fact I balled my eyes out. It was a sign of things to come. The very next year came "The Fumble". Earnest Byner fumbling the ball on the goal line before he scores the game winner. Then in 1995 they were gone. The Browns moved to Baltimore. They took my childhood. Art Modell took my beloved Browns and moved them to Baltimore to become the Ravens. To add insult to injury in 2000 the Ravens won the Super Bowl. But my pain is not just in football. It stretches over all sports teams.
                   The so called Cleveland Curse. They say the Indians were cursed by trading Rocky Colavito. Rocky was traded to the Tigers in 1960 and there has been said that a curse was placed on the Indians that they would never see another World Series win. In 1995 the Indians won the AL Pennant but fell to the Atlanta Braves falling short of Title in Cleveland. In 1997 They returned to the World Series to Face the Florida Marlins. In heartbreaking fashion the Indians, leading entering the bottom of the ninth 2-1, brought in closer Jose Mesa to seal the deal and deliver Cleveland their first title since 1964. But Mesa couldn't deliver. The Marlins tied the game and in the bottom of the 11th they finished off the Indians. Edgar Renteria singled to drive in Craig Counsell and crush Cleveland Fans once again. Two outs. We were two outs away from salvation and denied. It was 10 years after "The Drive" crushed my dreams. Two outs. I began questioning if I could go through this every 10 years, this emotional roller coaster they call fan-dom. This can't be good for my sanity. But I stuck it out.
                   So now Cleveland is preparing to go on another ride. The Cavaliers are carrying the hopes and dreams of the people of Cleveland on their shoulders. LeBron James is hailed as a savior and the proclaimed "Chosen One". If anyone can break this Cleveland Curse most believe it is LeBron James. That's not a lot of pressure is it? LeBron is the 1st Cleveland Athlete to win back-to-back MVP awards since Jim Brown did it for the Browns back in 1957 & 1958. Ironically Brown was on the last Cleveland Championship team in 1964. We as a fan base have been disappointed so many times that you shouldn't be surprised to see Cleveland fans wary. Most can't shake the woe-is-me mentality. Most anticipate another letdown. But in order to move forward you have to put the past to bed. I'm all in once again. I always say I'm not gonna do this to myself again but I do. I love my teams and I crave a Championship. I could never jump on another bandwagon and enjoy it with any other teams. Never. I just know when we get there, to the top how sweet it will be. And for that I keep my Faith.

Western Conference Semifinal Predictions

And there were 4. The Lakers, Suns, Spurs, and Jazz are the last 4 standing. All 4 teams went 6 games in their 1st round matchups. Maybe the most surprising was the Thunder taking the defending champs to 6 and almost 7 games. Well lets take a look at the two matchups:


(1) Los Angeles Lakers vs (5) Utah Jazz


The Lakers are coming off a first round series that maybe they didn't expect. The Thunder really gave them a run for their money taking them to 6 games and nearly a game 7. But they are here and they are the defending champs. Kobe and company seem to get stronger as the Playoffs go on, so I wouldn't worry to much. With Kobe anything is possible. Now Utah is coming off a series in which no one thought they would advance. Meeting Denver in the 1st round, and marred by injuries, they didn't complain. Utah just went out and outplayed Denver. The Jazz led by Deron Williams were impressive in their 1st round series win. Now last year the Jazz were over matched in their 1st round series with the Lakers nearly getting swept. The Jazz are smarter and tougher this season. They also should have AK-47.

The Sports Paisan's Prediction: I Like what Utah's doing, Defense and Pick and Roll's, but Lakers prevail. Lakers 4-2




(3) Phoenix Suns vs (7) San Antonio Spurs


I don't think any team is scarier to face come Playoffs than the San Antonio Spurs. They seem to always play their best basketball of the year when the Playoffs start. Coming off an impressive performance in round 1 against Dallas they look poised to make a run at another NBA Title. Led by Duncan, Parker, and Ginobli the Spurs will be a very tough out for anybody. Now its Phoenix's chance. I like Phoenix, I do. But the Spurs make you play to their tempo. Phoenix loves to run with Nash, Stoudemire, Richardson, and crew, but the Coach Pop knows how to slow it down and let the game come to them.

The Sports Paisan's Prediction: Suns can run, but run into a San Antonio defensive wall. Spurs 4-2

Tiger Woods misses cut at Quail Hollow; Struggling to Restore Image

CHARLOTTE- For only the sixth time in his pro career Tiger Woods failed to make the cut and qualify for weekend play at a tournament. Tiger, shooting his 2nd worst round as a pro, a 7 over 79 missed the 36-hole cut by an alarming 8 strokes. Its safe to say that Woods looks rusty. Though he had a good showing at the Masters, Woods has looked okay out on the course but not great. I really believe that its gonna take some time to see the real Tiger Woods back and at the top of his game. Tiger looks visibly beaten down at times in his interviews. Like the weight of the world in upon his shoulders. He really needs to shed the woe-is-me image and he should do it quickly. Nobody's feeling sorry for Tiger and the way he's been coming off in interviews and such he isn't doing himself any favors. He will be back, its just a matter of when he chooses to come back fully committed to restoring his legacy.

Gasol Tip In seals series win for Lakers over Thunder 95-94

OKLAHOMA CITY- The Lakers looked beaten up. The young Thunder were running circles around this Older more experienced bunch of Lakers. But when the buzzer sounded the defending champs were victorious. With under 12 seconds left down one Kobe brought the ball up court drove and settled for a jumper. Fortunately when that hit rim Pau Gasol tipped it back in with .05 seconds left giving the Lakers the one point lead and seemingly the series win. Kevin Durant led the Thunder with 26 but struggled shooting missing 17 of his first 20 shots. Nonetheless the Thunder gave the Lakers all they could handle and nearly forced a decisive Game 7 back in LA.  Lakers fan is their reason to panic? A fired up Jazz squad awaits.

#8 Canadiens send #1 Capitals home early 2-1 in Game 7

WASHINGTON- Capitals fans may never recover from this one, Alex Ovechkin may not either.The Capitals the NHL's best team in the regular season by far pulled off an epic collapse. After coming out winning 3 of the first 4 in the series, the Capitals lost their way. Montreal stormed back winning the next 3 games in stunning fashion. The Canadiens finished off the upset last night with a 2-1 win in Washington. This is the first time ever a #1 seed has lost a series to a #8 seed after holding a 3-1 series lead. Up next for the upstart Canadiens of Montreal: The Defending Stanley Cup Champs, Pittsburgh Penguins and Sidney Crosby.

Celtics dispose of Heat in Game 5 96-86

BOSTON- The Celtics may be hitting their groove. After dropping Game 4 in Miami, Paul Pierce and company wanted to finish the series off at home. Boston was led by Ray Allen, who has found new life in the Playoffs, with 24 points. But the star of the night was Rajon Rondo. Rondo had 16 points, 8 rebounds, 12 assists, and 4 steals. When Rondo stuffs the stat line like that the Celtics are tough to beat. Miami's Dwayne Wade led the Heat with 31, but the rest of his teammates didn't give him much of a hand. Now Wade heads into an off season uncertain what the future holds. Wade is one of many big-name free agents this off season.

LeBron's elbow has Cavs fans on edge

CLEVELAND- The most famous elbow in the world right now is grabbing all the headlines nation wide, and has Cleveland fans nervous. LeBron James elbow is even tweeting at this point saying "Please tell the world I will be fine. I am part of the hammer and the hammer is strong." and "Good night world. LBJ is snoring as usual and I am not looking forward 2 a day of being shoved in a MRI machine. I better get Dairy Queen." When you ask LeBron about injuries he always responds with "I'm a football player". He's almost Jim Brown like (Brown used to get up slowly after every play so that his opponents never knew if he was hurt). I don't think anything but losing a limb can stop the L-Train on his mission for a championship. He stated after game 5 all is well with the elbow and that he will be ready for the Celtics come Saturday. 

Lebron; Cavs close out Bulls in Game 5 nailbiter 96-94

CLEVELAND- Well Cleveland. If I told you LeBron would only have 3 points at halftime and your team would be up by 7 you would probably say "Your out of your mind". But that was the case last night. LeBron was doing everything but scoring, maybe the Bulls double-team helped, but the King made sure his teammates made them pay. Antawn Jamison led all Cavalier scorers with 25 points and Shaq pitched in with 14. LeBron got his as well going for 16 of his 19 points in the second half. James nearly missed his 2nd consecutive triple finishing with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists. James did seem to be bothered by games end by his elbow. As he went to the line for Free Throws, he shot the first and then seemed so bothered that he went ahead and shot the second left handed. James did miss the left handed attempt. Regardless the King says he is fine and will be ready for Game 1 of the semi-finals Saturday against the Celtics.

NFL Draft 1st round Results

Here are your 2010 NFL 1st Round Draft Picks:

#1

Sam Bradford

Ht/Wt: 6-4 / 218 lbs
Position: QB
School: Oklahoma
Class: Junior

#2

Ndamukong Suh

Ht/Wt: 6-4 / 300 lbs
Position: DT
School: Nebraska
Class: Senior

#3

Gerald McCoy

Ht/Wt: 6-4 / 295 lbs
Position: DT
School: Oklahoma
Class: Junior

#4

Trent Williams

Ht/Wt: 6-5 / 308 lbs
Position: OT
School: Oklahoma
Class: Senior

#5

Eric Berry

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 195 lbs
Position: S
School: Tennessee
Class: Junior

#6

Russell Okung

Ht/Wt: 6-5 / 300 lbs
Position: OT
School: Oklahoma State
Class: Senior

#7

Joe Haden

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 181 lbs
Position: CB
School: Florida
Class: Junior

#8

Rolando McClain

Ht/Wt: 6-4 / 249 lbs
Position: ILB
School: Alabama
Class: Junior

#9

CJ Spiller

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 195 lbs
Position: RB
School: Clemson
Class: Senior

#10

Tyson Alualu

Ht/Wt: 6-2 / 291 lbs
Position: DT
School: California
Class: Senior

#11*

Anthony Davis

Ht/Wt: 6-6 / 325 lbs
Position: OT
School: Rutgers
Class: Junior

#12*

Ryan Mathews

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 223 lbs
Position: RB
School: Fresno State
Class: Junior

#13*

Brandon Graham

Ht/Wt: 6-1 / 263 lbs
Position: DE/OLB
School: Michigan
Class: Senior

#14*

Earl Thomas

Ht/Wt: 5-10 / 195 lbs
Position: S
School: Texas
Class: Sophomore

#15

Jason PierrePaul

Ht/Wt: 6-5 / 265 lbs
Position: DE
School: South Florida
Class: Senior

#16

Derrick Morgan

Ht/Wt: 6-4 / 268 lbs
Position: DE/OLB
School: Georgia Tech
Class: Junior

#17*

Mike Iupati

Ht/Wt: 6-5 / 330 lbs
Position: OG
School: Idaho
Class: Senior

#18

Maurkice Pouncey

Ht/Wt: 6-5 / 312 lbs
Position: C/G
School: Florida
Class: Senior

#19

Sean Weatherspoon

Ht/Wt: 6-1 / 245 lbs
Position: OLB
School: Missouri
Class: Senior

#20

Kareem Jackson

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 195 lbs
Position: CB
School: Alabama
Class: Junior

#21

Jermaine Gresham

Ht/Wt: 6-6 / 261 lbs
Position: TE
School: Oklahoma
Class: Senior

#22*

Demaryius Thomas

Ht/Wt: 6-3 / 225 lbs
Position: WR
School: Georgia Tech
Class: Junior

#23

Bryan Bulaga

Ht/Wt: 6-6 / 312 lbs
Position: OT
School: Iowa
Class: Junior

#24*

Dez Bryant

Ht/Wt: 6-2 / 210 lbs
Position: WR
School: Oklahoma State
Class: Junior

#25*

Tim Tebow

Ht/Wt: 6-3 / 235 lbs
Position: QB
School: Florida
Class: Senior

#26

Dan Williams

Ht/Wt: 6-2 / 311 lbs
Position: NT
School: Tennessee
Class: Senior

#27*

Devin McCourty

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 185 lbs
Position: CB
School: Rutgers
Class: Senior

#28*

Jared Odrick

Ht/Wt: 6-4 / 306 lbs
Position: DT
School: Penn State
Class: Senior

#29

Kyle Wilson

Ht/Wt: 5-10 / 185 lbs
Position: CB
School: Boise State
Class: Senior

#30*

Jahvid Best

Ht/Wt: 5-10 / 195 lbs
Position: RB
School: California
Class: Junior

#31

Jerry Hughes

Ht/Wt: 6-3 / 257 lbs
Position: DE/OLB
School: TCU
Class: Senior

#32

Patrick Robinson

Ht/Wt: 5-11 / 195 lbs
Position: CB
School: Florida State
Class: Senior

 

Cavaliers; LeBron rebound from game 3 loss with Dominating Game 4 Win

CHICAGO- After coming off a Game 3 loss the Cleveland Cavaliers LeBron James came into game 4 extremely focused and ready to make good on his promise to elevate his game in these Playoffs. Not only did he elevate, he took off full force. James led all scorers with 37 points, but he also chimed in for 12 rebounds and 11 assists to earn his fifth career triple-double.

The Cavaliers led by 10 at the half with a 38 point explosion in the second quarter. they followed that up with a 37 point third quarter to blow open a 23-point lead 99-76. Chicago did play well getting 21 points and 20 rebounds from Joakim Noah, but Cleveland came out roaring and looked like the top seed in the Playoffs for the first time this post season. Cleveland comes home up 3-1 in the best of seven series. Game 5 is Tuesday night 8pm and LeBron and Company look to wrap it up at home.

NCAA will expand Men's Basketball Tourney from 65 to 68

The NCAA announced this afternoon that they will expand the tourney from 65 teams to 68 teams beginning next year. They also announced that they agreed to a $10.8 billion dollar broadcasting deal with Turner Broadcasting and CBS that will allow them to broadcast every tournament game live for the first time ever. How it will breakdown on the networks is as follows: Everything through the second round will be shown nationally on the four networks (CBS, TBS, TNT, truTV). CBS and Turner will split coverage of the regional semifinal games, while CBS will have exclusive rights to the regional finals, the Final Four and the championship game through 2015.

MLB Season in Full Swing!! Early Season Predictions!!

Spring is in the air and that means that Baseball is back!! The 2010 campaign is underway and the Paisan has his early season predictions on Division Winner's, Wildcard's, and World Series Champs! Here's the rundown.

AL East


1. Tampa Bay Rays
2. New York Yankees
3. Boston Red Sox
4. Toronto Blue Jays
5. Baltimore Orioles


AL Central


1. Minnesota Twins
2. Detroit Tigers
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Cleveland Indians


AL West


1. Seattle Mariners
2. LA Angels
3. Texas Rangers
4. Oakland Athletics


AL Division Winners: Tampa Bay Rays, Minnesota Twins, and Seattle Mariners
AL Wild Card: New York Yankees
AL Champion: Tampa Bay Rays


NL East


1. Philadelphia Phillies
2. Atlanta Braves
3. Florida Marlins
4. New York Mets
5. Washington Nationals


NL Central


1. St. Louis Cardinals
2. Milwaukee Brewers
3. Chicago Cubs
4. Pittsburgh Pirates
5. Houston Astros
6. Cincinnati Reds


NL West


1. Colorado Rockies
2. LA Dodgers
3.San Francisco Giants
4. San Diego Padres
5. Arizona Diamondbacks


NL Division Winners: Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, and Colorado Rockies
NL Wild Card: Atlanta Braves
NL Champion: St. Louis Cardinals


World Series: St. Louis Cardinals vs Tampa Bay Rays
World Series Champion: Tampa Bay Rays
World Series MVP: Evan Longoria

Tampa Bay has all the pieces in place to take the World Series title. This will probably be the last year this group of Rays gets a crack at it all together. They have the Pitching, Hitting, and Speed and are poised to make a deep run come October.

Roethlisberger Suspended 6 Games by NFL

Pittsburgh Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been suspended by the NFL for the first six games of the 2010 season for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. The suspension stems from Roethlisberger's incident in a Georgia nightclub in March. Roethlisberger was accused of sexual assault by a 20-year old college student but was never formally charged with any crime. Roethlisberger was also ordered to undergo behavioral evaluation as well. He is barred from participating in any off season activities until evaluation is complete. As long as he is cleared by the evaluators he will be able to participate in Training Camp and Pre-Season Games.

It has also been reported that the Steelers have begun contacting teams in the top ten of the draft about potential deals involving Roethlisberger. Teams believed to be contacted are the Raiders, Bills, Jaguars, 49ers, Seahawks, Rams, and Browns. It is believed that the Rams and Bills have already stated that they are not interested. The interest of the other teams is not known. We will continue to monitor the situation through the coming days.

Western Conference 1st Round Analysis and Predictions

The Western Conference is again the power Conference. The West is very talented boasting the like of the Lakers, Nuggets, Spurs, Mavericks, Jazz, Trailblazers, Suns, and Thunder.Besides the Thunder the other seven teams have legitimate chances to make a run to the Finals. But beware before jumping on any other bandwagon when the Mamba is lurking. Lakers are still the favorite.

(1) LA Lakers vs (8) Oklahoma City Thunder

(1) LA Lakers

The defending NBA champs are here. Kobe and company are locked and loaded and ready for another run at a championship. With the acquisition of Ron Artest in the off season the Lakers sent a statement to the league that Defense is a priority. The Lakers are a talented bunch with a great starting five (Gasol, Bryant, Bynum, Fisher, and Artest), and a great sixth man in Lamar Odom. The question is the rest of the supporting cast. Vujacic is out with an injury so it will be interesting to see who Phil Jackson plugs into the rotation. Adam Morrisson anyone?

(8) Oklahoma City Thunder

I have one word for you, Durantula. Kevin Durant is a beast period. Durant is coming off his best year as a pro (30.1 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 2.8 apg) and led the young Thunder to their 1st ever playoff birth. Led by Scott Brooks the Thunder have over achieved and matured throughout the season. They have a talented but young core of players with Durant, Westbrook, and Green, but no playoff experience. The unfortunate thing is they draw the Lakers in round 1. Look for the Thunder to continue to improve the next few years and be a strong contender in the West.

Paisan's Series Prediction: Durant can score almost at will, but the Lakers lock down Westbrook and the rest of the Thunder. Lakers 4-0

(2) Dallas Mavericks vs (7) San Antonio Spurs

(2) Dallas Mavericks

Dallas has the look of a team on a mission. With the mid-season trade that brought in Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood from Washington, Dallas looked to solidify itself as a major threat to the Lakers and Nuggets out west. Nowitzki is coming off another very good year, and Terry has again been huge as a sixth man once again. and lets not forget the ageless wonder in PG Jason Kidd. Let's not be fooled Kidd makes this team take off. The key is can Carlisle get these guys over the hump. He struggled with managing the egos in Detroit, can he do it in Dallas?

(7) San Antonio Spurs

Its hard to believe that San Antonio is a 7 seed out the West, but that just shows you how deep this conference is. Even as a seven seed you never can count out the Spurs. With Duncan, Ginobli, and Parker not to mention a great coach in Popovich the Spurs are a threat to anyone in the West. The one concern with this team is aging. They are not getting any younger and their best days are maybe behind them. Regardless they will fight till the bitter end and be a tough out in the Playoffs.

Paisan's Series Prediction: These teams really hate each other all the way down to the owners Holt and Cuban. Should be one of the more entertaining 1st round series.

Mavericks 4-3

(3)Phoenix Suns vs (6) Portland Trailblazers

(3) Phoenix Suns

The trade that never happened was the best thing that happened to the Suns season. After almost shipping out Amare Stoudemire before the trade deadline, Phoenix stood pat and surged to the three seed of the Western Conference. They have a good starting five and some decent help coming off the bench. What I like about Phoenix is they have the ability to run and shoot the lights out. Steve Nash is the engine that makes this car purr. If he's on then watch out, they'll be flying all over the court.

(6) Portland Trailblazers

Portland got bit. Yes, you heard me right the Blazers were bit by the injury bug right before seasons end when Brandon Roy injured his knee. Roy will be out the 1st round after having surgery to repair the meniscus in his knee. Its kind of hard to be positive about a team that's lacking their star player, but Portland will attempt to get out of the first round without Roy. If Portland can pull an upset here then Roy could return for round two. I just think it will be tough for these guys without him.

Paisan's Series Prediction: Suns too much for wounded Blazers, Suns 4-1

(4) Denver Nuggets vs (5) Utah Jazz

(4) Denver Nuggets

The Denver enter the playoffs without their leader. George Karl has been out getting treatment for throat cancer and no team has missed their coach more than the Nuggets. At times during the second half of the season it seemed these guys were on the verge of self destructing. But with team leaders Chauncey Billups and Carmelo Anthony Denver was able to harness the reigns and get back on track. The Nuggets are very dangerous with formidable bigs and sharp shooting behind the 3-point arc. If this team plays hard they are tough to beat. The question is which Nuggets team will we get?

(5) Utah Jazz

Poor, poor Utah. No team has been hit harder by injuries late in the year than the Jazz. But no matter who goes down Coach Jerry Sloan keeps finding bodies to plug in and keep winning. With Boozer and Kirilenko banged up Utah will look to Milsap and Okur to step in and step up. Deron Williams is a top-3 point guard in the NBA and can distribute the ball nicely, but also can shoot when needed. Utah played very well after the All-Star break and seems to be in stride heading into the Playoffs.

Paisan's Series Prediction: This series will be a battle and Utah won't go easy, but the Nuggets get in gear and "Mr. Big Shot" and Melo get the Nuggets to round 2. Nuggets 4-2

2010 NFL DRAFT Mock Draft

Ahhh yes the NFL Draft is upon us and the smell of optimism reigns throughout all NFL cities. For now everyone is off to a fresh start and last season is a mere afterthought. The 2010 NFL Draft is regarded as one of the deepest drafts in recent history. Teams are stockpiling picks trying to build with young talent. With the uncapped year teams have been waiting on the draft instead of going out and signing restricted and un-restricted free-agents to contracts. With the draft less than 48 hours away lets break down the 1st round barring any trades:

1. St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma

2. Detroit Lions- Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- N'damukong Suh, DT Nebraska

4. Washington Redskins- Russel Okung, T Oklahoma State

5. Kansas City Chiefs- Bryan Bulaga, T Iowa

6.Seattle Seahawks- CJ Spiller, HB Clemson

7. Cleveland Browns- Eric Berry, S Tennessee

8. Oakland Raiders- Trent Williams, T Oklahoma

9. Buffalo Bills- Jimmy Clausen, QB Notre Dame

10. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dez Bryant, WR Oklahoma State

11. Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain, LB Alabama

12. Miami Dolphins- Earl Thomas, S Texas

13. San Francisco 49ers- Anthony Davis, T Rutgers

14. Seattle Seahawks- Jason Pierre-Paul, DE USF

15. New York Giants- Joe Haden, CB Florida

16. Tennessee Titans- Derrick Morgan, DE Georgia Tech

17.San Francisco 49ers- Kareem Jackson, CB Alabama

18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Brandon Lafell, WR LSU

19, Atlanta Falcons- Dan Williams, DT Tennessee

20. Houston Texans- Taylor Mays, S USC

21. Cincinnati Bengals- Jermaine Gresham, TE Oklahoma

22. New England Patriots- Brandon Graham, LB Michigan

23. Green Bay Packers- Bruce Campbell, T Maryland

24. Philadelphia Eagles- Nate Allen, S USF

25. Baltimore Ravens- Kylie Wilson, CB Boise State

26. Arizona Cardinals- Arrelious Benn, WR Illinois

27. Dallas Cowboys- Rodger Saffold, T Indiana

28. San Diego Chargers- Ryan Matthews, HB Fresno State

29. New York Jets- Daryl Washington, LB TCU

30. Minnesota Viking- Jared Odrick, DT Penn State

31. Indianapolis Colts- Maurkice Pouncey, C Florida

32. New Orleans Saints- Sean Weatherspoon, LB Missouri

NBA Playoffs are Underway!! Eastern Conference 1st Round Analysis and Predictions

Well we are now underway with the NBA Playoffs! The Playoffs are times when Champions are made and Dreams are shattered. Today we will take a look at the Eastern Conferences series. Round 1 to the eye looks like it could be very predictable. The Conference is very Top Heavy. The top four teams are very strong going in (Cleveland, Orlando, Atlanta, and Boston) and the the last four all kind of scratched and clawed their way in (Miami, Milwaukee, Charlotte, and Chicago). So let's get started:

(1) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (8) Chicago Bulls

(1) Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cleveland Cavaliers come off another record year of wins. Standing at the top of the Eastern Conference and a top the NBA overall standings with a record of 61-21 earning Home Court throughout the Playoffs and Finals. Powered by the 2009 MVP LeBron James Cleveland is poised to make a deep run in these Playoffs. Cleveland upgraded its roster more than anyone in the NBA after falling short last year versus Orlando. Adding Shaquille O'neal, Anthony Parker, Antawn Jamison, Jamario Moon, and Leon Powe to the roster. Cleveland really struggled against the size of Dwight Howard and most of their moves were to match up with Dwight and his Magic.

This is also James' last year of his contract, so the pressure is on Cleveland to get to the promised land soon rather than later. No one knows what the future holds after July 1, 2010.

(2) Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls come off quite an up and down season. The supposed altercation between Coach DelNegro and GM John Paxson has been a huge distraction entering the Playoffs. But Chicago does boasts stud PG Derrick Rose who can make it happen from anywhere on the court. Rose is one of the best point guards to hit the scene in years. Rose is a talent that gets the best of the players around him. Chicago is very young in their starting five with Rose, Gibson, Noah, Deng, and Hinrich. They do have some veteran presence with Miller but that's really it. This is a young team starting to piece it together. Unfortunately they get Cleveland in the 1st round.

Paisan's Series Prediction: Derrick Rose is fun to watch, but LeBron and the Cavaliers have too much size and too much experience. Cleveland Rolls Chicago 4-0

(2) Orlando Magic vs. (7) Charlotte Bobcats

(2) Orlando Magic

The reigning Eastern Conference Champions come back with almost the same cast from last year. They did basically trade Hedo Turkoglu for Vince Carter and brought in Matt Barnes as well. Orlando also has a healthy Jameer Nelson right out the gate. Orlando played well down the stretch posting a 23-6 record after the All-Star Break. Dwight Howard is coming off another huge year where he was named the 2009-10 Defensive Player of the Year. Orlando is deep and hungry. After making it to the Finals last year and fizzling out against the Lakers. Look for Orlando to make another deep run in the Playoffs.

(7) Charlotte Bobcats

For the first time in franchise history the Charlotte Bobcats enter the Playoffs. Led by the Traveling Man Larry Brown Charlotte comes in at 44-38 and embarks on their first ever playoff journey. Charlotte has some very good young talented point guards with Felton and Augustine along with some fairly good bigs in Wallace and Jackson. Charlotte acquiring Stephen Jackson from the Warriors earlier in the year really got this team to take off. Jackson has been a model citizen since arriving and has embraced the roll of leader.

Paisan's Series Prediction: Charlotte is young and inexperienced but will battle with Orlando, but Dwight Howard and friends are on a mission. Orlando 4-1.

(3) Atlanta Hawks vs. (6) Milwaukee Bucks

(3) Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks seem to be getting better and better and nobody is paying attention to them. Mike Woodson has done a heck of a job the last few years getting these guys to gel. They are led by Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Al Horford, Marvin Williams, and Mike Bibby. Plus they have the best sixth man coming off the bench in Jamal Crawford. Atlanta's only concern may be their size upfront. Pachulia is OK and Horford is good but whose really coming off the bench? It may be tough for Atlanta come the next rounds. Regardless this team can shoot the lights out and are very formidable in the East.

(6) Milwaukee Bucks

Milwaukee enters the Playoffs losing perhaps their best player Andrew Bogut right before seasons end to a gruesome injury. Despite being hit by the injury bug throughout the year Milwaukee rebounded quite nicely with the acquisition due to the play of rookie PG, and my pick for Rookie of the Year, Brandon Jennings. Not to mention the nice move getting John Salmons from the Chicago Bulls mid season. Now we all know that Scott Skiles coached teams will bring the defense and slow down the game tempo, so despite the injuries the Bucks can still be dangerous and a tough out.

Paisan's Series Prediction: Jennings comes to play but the rest of the Bucks don't make the party, Hawks 4-2.

(4) Boston Celtics vs (5) Miami Heat

(4) Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics are getting old. It seems like they get older with each game. The once unstoppable Kevin Garnett looks a shell of himself and Rasheed Wallace has been the biggest Free Agent bust to date. Rondo has continued to mature and impress but Pierce and Allen have been mediocre at best. Boston limps into the playoffs losing 7 of their last 10 games. It what most likely will be their last run together this aging group looks more tired and spent then hungry for another title. Even Doc Rivers knows the end is near with his talks of retirement as of late.

(5) Miami Heat

Miami comes into the Playoffs one of the hottest teams down the stretch. Miami went 21-9 down the stretch to surge to the five seed. Led by the resilient Dwayne Wade Miami has been able to position themselves for the upset in this series. The one concern with the Heat is that Dwayne Wade needs help. Beasely must step up and so does Jermaine O'neal. But Dwayne Wade can take over a series quickly and when he does it doesn't matter who else is on the court.

Paisan's Series Prediction: Dwayne Wade makes it interesting, but the Old Guys get it done. Celtics 4-2.