Hi everyone:
I thought I'd try out a new internet site called Jumpcut by putting together a little video from some shots that were left over on my video camera.
Click on the title to see some shots from our team back in Boston and Cooperstown back in the summer of 06. Let the video load before clicking the "play" button as the video will run much smoother.....
Ciao,
Bill
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Man Ram - 11/28
As the hot stove rumors swirl about Manny Ramirez being traded this week, I want to go on record saying I'm against it. Here is a guy who's averaged 35 homeruns, 102 rbi's and a batting average of .325 over his career. Say what you want about his perceived attitude or lack of fielding ability (which I disagree with by the way...), the guy just FN rakes! Year in and year out.
I don't care who they pick up to replace him (or most likely multiple players to replace him), no one will give you what he brings to the table. With out him in the lineup batting 4th, expect Big Papi to be walked about 200 times next year...... Frustrating......
The only deal I think is exceptable is one in which the Yankees did with Sheffield. You better get someones top minor league pitching prospects which 1) will either turn into a stud pitcher down the road or 2) they can turn around (within a year or 2) and deal for someone else's stud player. That's it...
Here's 1 Red Sox fan that'll miss "Manny being Manny".
Ciao,
Bill
I don't care who they pick up to replace him (or most likely multiple players to replace him), no one will give you what he brings to the table. With out him in the lineup batting 4th, expect Big Papi to be walked about 200 times next year...... Frustrating......
The only deal I think is exceptable is one in which the Yankees did with Sheffield. You better get someones top minor league pitching prospects which 1) will either turn into a stud pitcher down the road or 2) they can turn around (within a year or 2) and deal for someone else's stud player. That's it...
Here's 1 Red Sox fan that'll miss "Manny being Manny".
Ciao,
Bill
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Sox and Mats ............11/15
Thought I'd way in on this....
I like it. Hell it's not my money. Is it a gamble? Absolutely, but I think every now and then you need to say f@$k it and swing for the fences. If Matsusaka turns out to be as good as most expect, the Red Sox get a 26yr old #1 starter to go along with Schilling, Beckett and Papelbon (moved back to the rotation this year). Not a bad rotation....... If he sucks or just can't pitch over here, they've blown a bunch of money, but I think it's worth the risk. They've got the money to spend, why not spend it. The Yankees out spent Boston by about $80 million last year, so I don't want to hear any Skankee fans complaining about Boston trying to buy a championship!
Boston now needs to go out and get a closer, but as of yet haven't heard who they're targeting.
Ciao,
Bill
I like it. Hell it's not my money. Is it a gamble? Absolutely, but I think every now and then you need to say f@$k it and swing for the fences. If Matsusaka turns out to be as good as most expect, the Red Sox get a 26yr old #1 starter to go along with Schilling, Beckett and Papelbon (moved back to the rotation this year). Not a bad rotation....... If he sucks or just can't pitch over here, they've blown a bunch of money, but I think it's worth the risk. They've got the money to spend, why not spend it. The Yankees out spent Boston by about $80 million last year, so I don't want to hear any Skankee fans complaining about Boston trying to buy a championship!
Boston now needs to go out and get a closer, but as of yet haven't heard who they're targeting.
Ciao,
Bill
Saturday, November 11, 2006
OT - I'm In Love With A Serial Killer............. 11/11
I thought I'd deviate away from sports for a bit and give you a tv recommendation.
If you have Showtime, you have to check out Dexter on Sunday nights at 9pm.
In a nutshell, Dexter Morgan is a forensic pathologist by day for the Miami police department and a serial killer at night (although he only kills people that "deserve" it..).
It has great acting, it's well written and does a good job of breaking up the serious nature of it with humor. Needless to say, I highly recommend it. Here is a clip:
http://tinyurl.com/ygsl68
I'd recommend watching from the beginning so go to Showtime on Demand and start from episode 1.
If you're a fan of drama, comedy and who done it, this is the show for you!
Ciao,
bill
If you have Showtime, you have to check out Dexter on Sunday nights at 9pm.
In a nutshell, Dexter Morgan is a forensic pathologist by day for the Miami police department and a serial killer at night (although he only kills people that "deserve" it..).
It has great acting, it's well written and does a good job of breaking up the serious nature of it with humor. Needless to say, I highly recommend it. Here is a clip:
http://tinyurl.com/ygsl68
I'd recommend watching from the beginning so go to Showtime on Demand and start from episode 1.
If you're a fan of drama, comedy and who done it, this is the show for you!
Ciao,
bill
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
A Fabulous Update - 10/31
Now that the season is half way over, here is my fabulous Top 10 in the NFL:
1) Indianapolis - Big test coming up this weekend in NE (which I think the Patriots will win by the way....), but as of now, they are doing everything they need to do to be in the top spot. Their defense (or lack there of) will be their undoing come playoff time, but for now, they stay at the top.
2) Da Bears - The other undeafeted team has to be in the 2nd spot. They have a murderous schedule this month with road games at the Giants, Jets and Patriots so we'll know where they stand then. The defense has been phenomenal (as expected) and the offense has finally stepped up. We'll see where it takes them....
3) Patriots - They continue to improve as the season goes along. Defense is playing great and their offense is starting to hit it's stride as Brady and the new receivers continue to get comfortable with each other. With Maroney (mid season offensive rookie of the year), Dillon and a young hungry offensive line running the ball, this team is built for the cold weather come January. If they get home field thru out the playoffs, mark them down for a 4th super bowl victory.
4) Chargers - I'm hot and cold with this team but when they're on, they're as good as anyone in football. They're tough both sides of ball and have playmakers everywhere. I like Rivers and think he's been doing a great job. My one issue with them is Schottenheimer. For all his regular season wins, he's never been to a super bowl and I expect the samething to happen again this year. Merriman being out for 4 games will hurt and cost them homefield come playoff time where they'll be eliminated in a surprising early loss........
5) Broncos - Tough game they lost at home this weekend which I think showed some weaknesses and will be exploiteded by teams down the road. They went into NE a few weeks ago and dominated but I don't think they've improved any since then. The 2 games against San Diego will decide the division and I'm not sure Jake "the snake" is up to it... Each week that goes by the media and fans keep calling for Cutler to come in and "save" the Broncos and that can't lead to a harmonious locker room...
6) Giants - I was down on them earlier in the year but after watching them the last couple weeks, I've been real impressed. Solid all around and they don't seem to hurt themselves. If you want to beat them, you better come ready to play. Should be a great game on the Nov. 12th when the Bears come to town.
7) Falcons - Well Vick is teasing us again by his play in the last couple of weeks. If he could consistently do this, he'd finally live up to all the hype. Unfortunately for the ATL fans, I just don't see him being able to continue to do this... I look at him as the jeckle and hyde of the nfl. On the other hand, I have Crumpler on my fantasty team and am looking at picking up Jenkins, so I hope Vick can keep this up!
8) Saints - Gotta hand it to Sean Payton, he's done a great job coming in and putting together a solid team. I think they are truely a year away from being a serious contender, but they are fun to watch. Best rookie on the team? Marques Colston out of Bill Cosby's alma mater, Hofstra! That's not a knock against Reggie Bush, but Colston has been playing unbelievable and deserves serious rookie of the year consideration.
9) Ravens - I have them a little lower than most, but I've definetly soured on McNair and the offense. Obviously the defense is one of the best, but does McNair really give them a better shot then Boller? At this point in Air McNair's career, I keep wondering how he can direct an offense with a fork sticking out his back..... Sounds difficult.
And #10 on my fabulous list is:
10) Cowboys - With the Jaguars close behind..... I'm not sure how Romo is going to do. Could help or hurt. We'll have to see. This is such a combustible team I just have no idea where to put them. There are a lot things I like and a lot of things I don't ..... I just don't know. Same holds true with the Jaguars. If they go full time with Garrard, I think they'd be more dangerous than with Leftwich. Also I like their running game now with Jones-Drew and Taylor.
We'll there you have it, my mid season top 10. Obviously there are a few other teams out there that could step up and contend (Seahawks / Eagles come to mind) but I think these teams are the only contenders after a half season of play.
Ciao,
Bill
1) Indianapolis - Big test coming up this weekend in NE (which I think the Patriots will win by the way....), but as of now, they are doing everything they need to do to be in the top spot. Their defense (or lack there of) will be their undoing come playoff time, but for now, they stay at the top.
2) Da Bears - The other undeafeted team has to be in the 2nd spot. They have a murderous schedule this month with road games at the Giants, Jets and Patriots so we'll know where they stand then. The defense has been phenomenal (as expected) and the offense has finally stepped up. We'll see where it takes them....
3) Patriots - They continue to improve as the season goes along. Defense is playing great and their offense is starting to hit it's stride as Brady and the new receivers continue to get comfortable with each other. With Maroney (mid season offensive rookie of the year), Dillon and a young hungry offensive line running the ball, this team is built for the cold weather come January. If they get home field thru out the playoffs, mark them down for a 4th super bowl victory.
4) Chargers - I'm hot and cold with this team but when they're on, they're as good as anyone in football. They're tough both sides of ball and have playmakers everywhere. I like Rivers and think he's been doing a great job. My one issue with them is Schottenheimer. For all his regular season wins, he's never been to a super bowl and I expect the samething to happen again this year. Merriman being out for 4 games will hurt and cost them homefield come playoff time where they'll be eliminated in a surprising early loss........
5) Broncos - Tough game they lost at home this weekend which I think showed some weaknesses and will be exploiteded by teams down the road. They went into NE a few weeks ago and dominated but I don't think they've improved any since then. The 2 games against San Diego will decide the division and I'm not sure Jake "the snake" is up to it... Each week that goes by the media and fans keep calling for Cutler to come in and "save" the Broncos and that can't lead to a harmonious locker room...
6) Giants - I was down on them earlier in the year but after watching them the last couple weeks, I've been real impressed. Solid all around and they don't seem to hurt themselves. If you want to beat them, you better come ready to play. Should be a great game on the Nov. 12th when the Bears come to town.
7) Falcons - Well Vick is teasing us again by his play in the last couple of weeks. If he could consistently do this, he'd finally live up to all the hype. Unfortunately for the ATL fans, I just don't see him being able to continue to do this... I look at him as the jeckle and hyde of the nfl. On the other hand, I have Crumpler on my fantasty team and am looking at picking up Jenkins, so I hope Vick can keep this up!
8) Saints - Gotta hand it to Sean Payton, he's done a great job coming in and putting together a solid team. I think they are truely a year away from being a serious contender, but they are fun to watch. Best rookie on the team? Marques Colston out of Bill Cosby's alma mater, Hofstra! That's not a knock against Reggie Bush, but Colston has been playing unbelievable and deserves serious rookie of the year consideration.
9) Ravens - I have them a little lower than most, but I've definetly soured on McNair and the offense. Obviously the defense is one of the best, but does McNair really give them a better shot then Boller? At this point in Air McNair's career, I keep wondering how he can direct an offense with a fork sticking out his back..... Sounds difficult.
And #10 on my fabulous list is:
10) Cowboys - With the Jaguars close behind..... I'm not sure how Romo is going to do. Could help or hurt. We'll have to see. This is such a combustible team I just have no idea where to put them. There are a lot things I like and a lot of things I don't ..... I just don't know. Same holds true with the Jaguars. If they go full time with Garrard, I think they'd be more dangerous than with Leftwich. Also I like their running game now with Jones-Drew and Taylor.
We'll there you have it, my mid season top 10. Obviously there are a few other teams out there that could step up and contend (Seahawks / Eagles come to mind) but I think these teams are the only contenders after a half season of play.
Ciao,
Bill
Saturday, September 30, 2006
And You Wonder Why Boston Didn't Resign Him 9/30
It would have taken 5yrs and 60 million to bring him back to Boston, and this is why when a pitcher hits his mid 30's you don't do it...
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2608613
Bill
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2608613
Bill
Friday, September 15, 2006
I Am A God 9/16
A fantasy football god that is!
This year I decided to just do 2 leagues with 1 being for fun and the other a little more serious (and more money). I'll keep you up to date with the serious 1 which is called "Dude Ranch" and has 12 teams.
My team is called "Drama Time" named in honor of the multiple emmy and oscar nominated actor Johnny "Drama" Chase (brother of Vincent Chase of Aquaman and Streets of Brooklyn fame.....).
We have 14 players on the roster with 9 active each week (1QB, 2RB, 2WR, 1TE, 1K, 1D and 1Flex position (could be rb,wr or te). Here's my current roster:
Actives:
Drew Brees - qb
Edgerrin James - rb
Willis McGahee - rb
Hines Ward - wr
Donald Driver - wr
Donte Stallworth - Flex
Alge Crumpler - te
Neil Rackers - k
Da Bears - D
Reserves:
Ahman Green - rb
Isaac Bruce - wr
Jeff Wilkins - k
Trent Green - qb
Dallas Clark - te
Money - cost to play the league is $425 with additional costs along the way. A trade cost's $8, picking a player up from waivers or free agency cost's $2, moving a player from active to reserve (or vice versa if you will) cost's $2.
The winner of the league gets $2000 (2nd $1000, 3rd $500). If you win your division (league is split into 2 divisions) you win $250. If you have the most points in a week you win $25 and the most points for the season get's all the transaction money (which judging from the 1st week, could be a lot).
I'm happy with how the draft went. I drafted 9th and picked Edge with my 1st pick and McGahee with my 2nd (pick #14). If you have hopes of winning, you need rb's and I got 2 of the best. I was hoping Frank Gore would fall to me in the 3rd, but he got snapped up prior to me picking. I went Ward and Driver next and after that whoever I felt was best. To show you how valuable I consider QB's, I actually took a kicker (Racker) before taking Bree's in the 12th round. Who I really wanted for a QB was Kurt Warner, but someone else selected him in the 11th round.
Week #1 - Drama Time took on Cool Runnings with Drama Time winning the week 121-112. Those were the 2 highest point totals for the week and with the highest overall score bringing home the $25 "win" and taking over 1st place in my division. I got big performances from Donte Stallworth and Da Bears, with solid outings from Edge, McGahee, Driver, Ward and Rackers. I actually had started Trent Green at QB but he got knocked out early and wasn't much of a help to my dominating week 1 victory (only got me 2 points).
For week #2 Drama Time goes on the road to face the 1-0 Don't Know Shit About Football led by the top pick in the draft Larry Johnson. I'm tempted to sit out Ward and put Ahman Green in as I think he's going to have a big game (and Ward still is bothered by a hamstring problem). It'll be a game time decision which way I go.....
Prediction - Drama Time has another solid outing putting up 110 points to out distance DKSAF who only score 98.
Current Record - 1-0 and in 1st place
Money Out:
$427
This year I decided to just do 2 leagues with 1 being for fun and the other a little more serious (and more money). I'll keep you up to date with the serious 1 which is called "Dude Ranch" and has 12 teams.
My team is called "Drama Time" named in honor of the multiple emmy and oscar nominated actor Johnny "Drama" Chase (brother of Vincent Chase of Aquaman and Streets of Brooklyn fame.....).
We have 14 players on the roster with 9 active each week (1QB, 2RB, 2WR, 1TE, 1K, 1D and 1Flex position (could be rb,wr or te). Here's my current roster:
Actives:
Drew Brees - qb
Edgerrin James - rb
Willis McGahee - rb
Hines Ward - wr
Donald Driver - wr
Donte Stallworth - Flex
Alge Crumpler - te
Neil Rackers - k
Da Bears - D
Reserves:
Ahman Green - rb
Isaac Bruce - wr
Jeff Wilkins - k
Trent Green - qb
Dallas Clark - te
Money - cost to play the league is $425 with additional costs along the way. A trade cost's $8, picking a player up from waivers or free agency cost's $2, moving a player from active to reserve (or vice versa if you will) cost's $2.
The winner of the league gets $2000 (2nd $1000, 3rd $500). If you win your division (league is split into 2 divisions) you win $250. If you have the most points in a week you win $25 and the most points for the season get's all the transaction money (which judging from the 1st week, could be a lot).
I'm happy with how the draft went. I drafted 9th and picked Edge with my 1st pick and McGahee with my 2nd (pick #14). If you have hopes of winning, you need rb's and I got 2 of the best. I was hoping Frank Gore would fall to me in the 3rd, but he got snapped up prior to me picking. I went Ward and Driver next and after that whoever I felt was best. To show you how valuable I consider QB's, I actually took a kicker (Racker) before taking Bree's in the 12th round. Who I really wanted for a QB was Kurt Warner, but someone else selected him in the 11th round.
Week #1 - Drama Time took on Cool Runnings with Drama Time winning the week 121-112. Those were the 2 highest point totals for the week and with the highest overall score bringing home the $25 "win" and taking over 1st place in my division. I got big performances from Donte Stallworth and Da Bears, with solid outings from Edge, McGahee, Driver, Ward and Rackers. I actually had started Trent Green at QB but he got knocked out early and wasn't much of a help to my dominating week 1 victory (only got me 2 points).
For week #2 Drama Time goes on the road to face the 1-0 Don't Know Shit About Football led by the top pick in the draft Larry Johnson. I'm tempted to sit out Ward and put Ahman Green in as I think he's going to have a big game (and Ward still is bothered by a hamstring problem). It'll be a game time decision which way I go.....
Prediction - Drama Time has another solid outing putting up 110 points to out distance DKSAF who only score 98.
Current Record - 1-0 and in 1st place
Money Out:
$427
Money In:
$25
Ciao,
Bill
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Power Rankings 9/14
After week one, here's my fabulous top 10:
1) Pittsburgh - defending champion stays #1 till beaten.
2) Baltimore - Still one of the best defensively and McNair won't hurt them like Boller.
3) Philadelphia - I'm rating them higher than others, but after they beat the Gints this weekend, people will jump on board. You saw it here first!
4) Indianapolis - 2 things I don't like about them 1) running back by committee and 2) defense is too small and can get muscled by physical teams.
5) Patriots - Too many people get caught up in what they didn't bring back, not what they have. Improved running game will help control the ball.
6) Chicago Bears - Like Baltimore, with their defense they're in every game. If offense can continue to grow, they are my pick to represent the NFC in the SB.
7) Seattle - I'm putting them here only because they were in the SB last year. They're the class of a weak division which will help them out record wise, but I think this team peaked last year. Branch won't help them out like the media thinks and their offensive line took a big hit.
8) Jacksonville - Here's another team I like a lot. Call them my sleeper pick to go to the SB. Suffocating defense, smart QB and respected head coach. They went 12-4 last season and no one seems to be talking about them...
9) NY Giants - I'm still not sold on them, but they have a lot of weapons. We'll see how they do against Philly on Sunday.
10) Minnesota - Went into RFK and played a nice game. I like their new head coach a lot, he understands how you win in the NFL (defense and a punishing running game). He went out during the off season and brought in another stud offensive lineman (Hutchinson) to go with McKinnie. Brad Johnson does here what Steve McNair will do in Baltimore, manage the game and not cost his team a win.
Those knocking on the door? Dallas, Falcons, Chargers, Bengals.
Ciao,
Bill
1) Pittsburgh - defending champion stays #1 till beaten.
2) Baltimore - Still one of the best defensively and McNair won't hurt them like Boller.
3) Philadelphia - I'm rating them higher than others, but after they beat the Gints this weekend, people will jump on board. You saw it here first!
4) Indianapolis - 2 things I don't like about them 1) running back by committee and 2) defense is too small and can get muscled by physical teams.
5) Patriots - Too many people get caught up in what they didn't bring back, not what they have. Improved running game will help control the ball.
6) Chicago Bears - Like Baltimore, with their defense they're in every game. If offense can continue to grow, they are my pick to represent the NFC in the SB.
7) Seattle - I'm putting them here only because they were in the SB last year. They're the class of a weak division which will help them out record wise, but I think this team peaked last year. Branch won't help them out like the media thinks and their offensive line took a big hit.
8) Jacksonville - Here's another team I like a lot. Call them my sleeper pick to go to the SB. Suffocating defense, smart QB and respected head coach. They went 12-4 last season and no one seems to be talking about them...
9) NY Giants - I'm still not sold on them, but they have a lot of weapons. We'll see how they do against Philly on Sunday.
10) Minnesota - Went into RFK and played a nice game. I like their new head coach a lot, he understands how you win in the NFL (defense and a punishing running game). He went out during the off season and brought in another stud offensive lineman (Hutchinson) to go with McKinnie. Brad Johnson does here what Steve McNair will do in Baltimore, manage the game and not cost his team a win.
Those knocking on the door? Dallas, Falcons, Chargers, Bengals.
Ciao,
Bill
Saturday, September 09, 2006
I have a secret 9/9
I love Peyton Manning........
God knows I've tried to hate him. Quite frankly, I have every reason to.
1) He plays for a big rival of my favorite team
2) He whines
3) He's WAY OVER RATED by the media
But I gotta say he comes across in his commercials as a genuine down to earth guy who could be your next door neighbor....
So there I've said it. I love Peyton Manning and I'd love to have him be a back up to Brady on the Patriots......
Ciao,
Bill
God knows I've tried to hate him. Quite frankly, I have every reason to.
1) He plays for a big rival of my favorite team
2) He whines
3) He's WAY OVER RATED by the media
But I gotta say he comes across in his commercials as a genuine down to earth guy who could be your next door neighbor....
So there I've said it. I love Peyton Manning and I'd love to have him be a back up to Brady on the Patriots......
Ciao,
Bill
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
NBA Mock Draft 6/27
I was so impressive on my NFL Mock Draft, I figured I'd give the NBA a shot!
As always, I wouldn't be going to Vegas with these, but lets just see how wrong I can be........
1. Toronto Andrea Bargnani (Italy, 7-0, 225, PF, 20)
2. Chicago (via New York) Tyrus Thomas (LSU, 6-9, 229, PF, Fr.)
3. Charlotte Adam Morrison (Gonzaga, 6-8, 205, SF, Jr.)
4. Portland Brandon Roy (Washington, 6-5, 195, SG, Sr.)
5. Atlanta Hawks LaMarcus Aldridge (Texas, 6-11, 234, PF, So)
6. Minnesota Rudy Gay (UConn, 6-9, 222, SF, So.)
7. Boston Celtics Randy Foye (Villanova, 6-4, 205, SG, Sr.)
8. Houston Rockets Marcus Williams (UConn, 6-3, 205, PG, Jr.)
9. Golden State Warriors Shelden Williams (Duke, 6-9, 250, PF, Sr.)
10. Seattle SuperSonics Patrick O'Bryant (Bradley, 7-0, 260, C)
11. Orlando Magic Rodney Carney (Memphis, 6-7, 205, SF, Sr.)
12. NO/OK Hornets Cedric Simmons (NC State, 6-9, 225, PF, So.)
13. Philadelphia 76ers Ronnie Brewer (Arkansas, 6-7, 220, G/F, Jr.)
14. Utah Jazz JJ Redick (Duke, 6-4, 190, SG, Sr.)
15. Hornets (via Bucks) Hilton Armstrong (UConn, 6-11, 245, PF/C, Sr.)
16. Chicago Bulls Saer Sene (Senegal, 7-0, 230, PF/C)
17. Indiana Pacers Sergio Rodriguez (Spain, 6-3, 185, G)
18. Washington Wizards Alexander Johnson (Florida State, 6-10, 230, Jr.)
19. Sacramento Kings Shawne Williams (Memphis, 6-9, 225, SF, Fr.)
20. Knicks (via Nuggets) Mardy Collins (Temple, 6-6, 205, PG, Sr.)
21. Suns (via Lakers) Thabo Sefolosha (Switzerland, 6-7, 210, SF)
22. Nets (via Clippers) Jordan Farmar (UCLA, 6-2, 180, PG, So.)
23. New Jersey Nets Maurice Ager (Michigan State, 6-5, 180, SG, Sr.)
24. Memphis Grizzlies Shannon Brown (Michigan State, 6-3, 190, G, Jr.)
25. Cleveland Cavaliers Kyle Lowry (Villanova, 6-0, 185, PG, So.)
26. L.A. Lakers (via Heat) Guillermo Diaz (Miami, 6-2, 185, G, Jr.)
27. Phoenix Suns Rajon Rondo (Kentucky, 6-1, 175, PG, So.)
28. Dallas Mavericks Paul Davis (Michigan State, 6-10, 250, PF, Sr.)
29. Knicks (via Spurs) Marcus Vinicius (Brazil, 6-10, 230, SF, Age 22)
30. Blazers (via Pistons) Quincy Douby (Rutgers, 6-3, 175, G, Jr.)
We'll see how it turns out tomorrow,
Bill
As always, I wouldn't be going to Vegas with these, but lets just see how wrong I can be........
1. Toronto Andrea Bargnani (Italy, 7-0, 225, PF, 20)
2. Chicago (via New York) Tyrus Thomas (LSU, 6-9, 229, PF, Fr.)
3. Charlotte Adam Morrison (Gonzaga, 6-8, 205, SF, Jr.)
4. Portland Brandon Roy (Washington, 6-5, 195, SG, Sr.)
5. Atlanta Hawks LaMarcus Aldridge (Texas, 6-11, 234, PF, So)
6. Minnesota Rudy Gay (UConn, 6-9, 222, SF, So.)
7. Boston Celtics Randy Foye (Villanova, 6-4, 205, SG, Sr.)
8. Houston Rockets Marcus Williams (UConn, 6-3, 205, PG, Jr.)
9. Golden State Warriors Shelden Williams (Duke, 6-9, 250, PF, Sr.)
10. Seattle SuperSonics Patrick O'Bryant (Bradley, 7-0, 260, C)
11. Orlando Magic Rodney Carney (Memphis, 6-7, 205, SF, Sr.)
12. NO/OK Hornets Cedric Simmons (NC State, 6-9, 225, PF, So.)
13. Philadelphia 76ers Ronnie Brewer (Arkansas, 6-7, 220, G/F, Jr.)
14. Utah Jazz JJ Redick (Duke, 6-4, 190, SG, Sr.)
15. Hornets (via Bucks) Hilton Armstrong (UConn, 6-11, 245, PF/C, Sr.)
16. Chicago Bulls Saer Sene (Senegal, 7-0, 230, PF/C)
17. Indiana Pacers Sergio Rodriguez (Spain, 6-3, 185, G)
18. Washington Wizards Alexander Johnson (Florida State, 6-10, 230, Jr.)
19. Sacramento Kings Shawne Williams (Memphis, 6-9, 225, SF, Fr.)
20. Knicks (via Nuggets) Mardy Collins (Temple, 6-6, 205, PG, Sr.)
21. Suns (via Lakers) Thabo Sefolosha (Switzerland, 6-7, 210, SF)
22. Nets (via Clippers) Jordan Farmar (UCLA, 6-2, 180, PG, So.)
23. New Jersey Nets Maurice Ager (Michigan State, 6-5, 180, SG, Sr.)
24. Memphis Grizzlies Shannon Brown (Michigan State, 6-3, 190, G, Jr.)
25. Cleveland Cavaliers Kyle Lowry (Villanova, 6-0, 185, PG, So.)
26. L.A. Lakers (via Heat) Guillermo Diaz (Miami, 6-2, 185, G, Jr.)
27. Phoenix Suns Rajon Rondo (Kentucky, 6-1, 175, PG, So.)
28. Dallas Mavericks Paul Davis (Michigan State, 6-10, 250, PF, Sr.)
29. Knicks (via Spurs) Marcus Vinicius (Brazil, 6-10, 230, SF, Age 22)
30. Blazers (via Pistons) Quincy Douby (Rutgers, 6-3, 175, G, Jr.)
We'll see how it turns out tomorrow,
Bill
Monday, June 26, 2006
When Real Sports Heroes Existed! 6/26
If you've ever wondered why I'm the way I am now, click on the title.....
Bill
ps............ the traitor makes an early appearance here!
Bill
ps............ the traitor makes an early appearance here!
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Hey look, I have a Mock Draft! 4-28
I've read about 75 different predictions in the past week by the "experts" which tells me no one has any idea what's going to happen so I thought I'd give you my prediction. Let's see how wrong I can be!
1) Houston - Reggie Bush - USC
2) New Orleans - Mario Williams - North Carolina St
3) Tennessee - Matt Leinert - USC - I keep hearing they'll take Young but that is a smoke screen. Fisher is a USC alum and Chow is Leinerts former offensive coordinator there. Tennessee is hoping someone will jump up and want to make a trade in order to get Young, hence all the rumors going around.
4) Jets - D'Brickasaw Ferguson - Virginia - Not a sexy pick, but a stud offensive lineman. Keep in mind the Belichick ties here now in the staff. They will not pick a quaterback, running back or receiver this high as you can ALWAYS find that lower in the draft..... They'll draft for value.
5) Packers - AJ Hawk - The Ohio State. This pick and the 49ers pick next, I see everyone predicting this so I'll go with it......
6) 49'ers - Vernon Davis - Maryland
7. Oakland - Vince Young - Texas - the wild card... Can Al Davis pass on a talent??? No.
8. Buffalo - Haloti Ngata - Oregon State
9. Detroit - Michael Huff - Texas
10. Arizona - Jay Cutler - Vanderbilt
11. St. Louis - Jimmy Williams - Virginia Tech
12. Cleveland - Chad Greenway - Iowa
13. Baltimore - Brodrick Bunkley - Florida State
14. Philadelphia - Bobby Carpenter - Ohio State
15. Denver (from Atlanta) - every "expert" I read has them taking a wide receiver, so I'll go with one also - Chad Jackson - Florida
16. Miami - Winston Justice - Miami - They need protection for Culpepper, so I'll go with the best offensive lineman on the board. However Santonio Holmes might go here too....
17. Minnesota - Ernie Sims - Florida St. - they continue building the defense.
18. Dallas - Manny Lawson - North Carolina St.
19. San Diego - Antonio Cromartie- Florida St. - No player has been shooting up the draft boards quicker recently as Cromartie. He's coming back from a torn ACL and didn't take a snap in 05, but is 1 of the most talented players in the draft. Has the same potential as Champ Bailey...
20. Kansas City - Tye Hill - Clemson
21. New England - Kamerion Wimbley - Florida St. - a big time defensive end who could go as high as 12. I keep reading they'll take a running back to start replacing Corey Dillon but NE does not select running backs this high..... also if Cromartie falls to them here, they won't be able to get their card in quick enough as they'd love to have him!
22. San Franciso - They were hoping for Wimbley, so if NE passes on him, they take him..... But seeing as how I do have him gone, I'll go with - Richard Marshall - Fresno State.
23. Tampa Bay - Donte Witner - Ohio State - versatile player capable of playing 4 positions on the defense.
24. Cincinnati - Jason Allen - Tennessee
25. N.Y. Giants - Santonio Holmes - Ohio State - Giants are amazed he's dropped this far and although they were planning on going defense, they get an incrediable player at 25.
26. Chicago - With Jerry Azumah (UNH alum....) retiring, they'll go cornerback - Jonathon Joseph - South Carolina
27. Carolina - Lendale White - USC - best big back in the draft.
28. Jacksonville - Thomas Howard - UNLV - Del Rio likes linebackers and Howard is as athletic as they come.
29. NY Jets (from Denver through Atlanta) - Nick Mangold, a center, was who I was going to give them but with Cedric Houston in an auto accident, I think they take - Deangelo Williams - Memphis.
30. Indianapolis - Laurance Maroney - Minnesota. With the loss of "Edge", they're thrilled to have 1 of the top running backs fall to them.
31. Seattle - Ashton Youboty - Ohio State
32. Pittsburgh - Sinorice Moss - Miami - Santana's brother and capable of taking over the 3rd wide receiver spot left vacant by Randal El leaving.
A couple notes about the draft. Obviously I didn't factor in any trades (which I don't see happening much in the 1st round anyways), but if someone makes a jump up to get one of the big 3 QB's, then the picks could change drastically. Secondly, concerning the Patriots and a running back, if they do select one look for them to go with Joseph Addai out of LSU in the 3rd or 4th round.
I also want to go out on a limb and say that 12 years from now when we look back on this draft we'll say how could teams consider taking Vince Young over Leinert, as Leinert will have a stellar career. Also I see Reggie Bush getting injured down the road, and when they retire, Lendale White will have had a better career......
There you have it, my 1st official nfl mock draft! Lets take a look at it next week and see how wrong I am.........
Ciao,
Bill
1) Houston - Reggie Bush - USC
2) New Orleans - Mario Williams - North Carolina St
3) Tennessee - Matt Leinert - USC - I keep hearing they'll take Young but that is a smoke screen. Fisher is a USC alum and Chow is Leinerts former offensive coordinator there. Tennessee is hoping someone will jump up and want to make a trade in order to get Young, hence all the rumors going around.
4) Jets - D'Brickasaw Ferguson - Virginia - Not a sexy pick, but a stud offensive lineman. Keep in mind the Belichick ties here now in the staff. They will not pick a quaterback, running back or receiver this high as you can ALWAYS find that lower in the draft..... They'll draft for value.
5) Packers - AJ Hawk - The Ohio State. This pick and the 49ers pick next, I see everyone predicting this so I'll go with it......
6) 49'ers - Vernon Davis - Maryland
7. Oakland - Vince Young - Texas - the wild card... Can Al Davis pass on a talent??? No.
8. Buffalo - Haloti Ngata - Oregon State
9. Detroit - Michael Huff - Texas
10. Arizona - Jay Cutler - Vanderbilt
11. St. Louis - Jimmy Williams - Virginia Tech
12. Cleveland - Chad Greenway - Iowa
13. Baltimore - Brodrick Bunkley - Florida State
14. Philadelphia - Bobby Carpenter - Ohio State
15. Denver (from Atlanta) - every "expert" I read has them taking a wide receiver, so I'll go with one also - Chad Jackson - Florida
16. Miami - Winston Justice - Miami - They need protection for Culpepper, so I'll go with the best offensive lineman on the board. However Santonio Holmes might go here too....
17. Minnesota - Ernie Sims - Florida St. - they continue building the defense.
18. Dallas - Manny Lawson - North Carolina St.
19. San Diego - Antonio Cromartie- Florida St. - No player has been shooting up the draft boards quicker recently as Cromartie. He's coming back from a torn ACL and didn't take a snap in 05, but is 1 of the most talented players in the draft. Has the same potential as Champ Bailey...
20. Kansas City - Tye Hill - Clemson
21. New England - Kamerion Wimbley - Florida St. - a big time defensive end who could go as high as 12. I keep reading they'll take a running back to start replacing Corey Dillon but NE does not select running backs this high..... also if Cromartie falls to them here, they won't be able to get their card in quick enough as they'd love to have him!
22. San Franciso - They were hoping for Wimbley, so if NE passes on him, they take him..... But seeing as how I do have him gone, I'll go with - Richard Marshall - Fresno State.
23. Tampa Bay - Donte Witner - Ohio State - versatile player capable of playing 4 positions on the defense.
24. Cincinnati - Jason Allen - Tennessee
25. N.Y. Giants - Santonio Holmes - Ohio State - Giants are amazed he's dropped this far and although they were planning on going defense, they get an incrediable player at 25.
26. Chicago - With Jerry Azumah (UNH alum....) retiring, they'll go cornerback - Jonathon Joseph - South Carolina
27. Carolina - Lendale White - USC - best big back in the draft.
28. Jacksonville - Thomas Howard - UNLV - Del Rio likes linebackers and Howard is as athletic as they come.
29. NY Jets (from Denver through Atlanta) - Nick Mangold, a center, was who I was going to give them but with Cedric Houston in an auto accident, I think they take - Deangelo Williams - Memphis.
30. Indianapolis - Laurance Maroney - Minnesota. With the loss of "Edge", they're thrilled to have 1 of the top running backs fall to them.
31. Seattle - Ashton Youboty - Ohio State
32. Pittsburgh - Sinorice Moss - Miami - Santana's brother and capable of taking over the 3rd wide receiver spot left vacant by Randal El leaving.
A couple notes about the draft. Obviously I didn't factor in any trades (which I don't see happening much in the 1st round anyways), but if someone makes a jump up to get one of the big 3 QB's, then the picks could change drastically. Secondly, concerning the Patriots and a running back, if they do select one look for them to go with Joseph Addai out of LSU in the 3rd or 4th round.
I also want to go out on a limb and say that 12 years from now when we look back on this draft we'll say how could teams consider taking Vince Young over Leinert, as Leinert will have a stellar career. Also I see Reggie Bush getting injured down the road, and when they retire, Lendale White will have had a better career......
There you have it, my 1st official nfl mock draft! Lets take a look at it next week and see how wrong I am.........
Ciao,
Bill
Dinner Table - 4/13/06
Name 3 athletes, alive or dead, you'd like to have dinner with. Here's my 3:
1) Jackie Robinson - The man went through so much and handled it all with dignity. I'm sure he'd be very satisfied with how far sports have come with integration.
2) Wilt Chamberlain - You need someone at the table who is full of stories and admittedly I'd be grilling him on all his "conquests".....
3) Babe Didrikson - I had to include 1 woman in the group and it was a tough choice between the greatest female athlete of all time or Anna Kournikova (best looking female athlete of all time!)............ Babe dominated golf and track and field like no female athlete before or since. In golf she won 55 tournaments (including a string of 13 in a row) and she was one of 3 people to start the LPGA tour. In track and field, she won the womans 1st olympic javelin and set a world record in the 80 meter hurdles. She was named the female athlete of the year 6 times.
I think these 3 would be a good start.
Bill
1) Jackie Robinson - The man went through so much and handled it all with dignity. I'm sure he'd be very satisfied with how far sports have come with integration.
2) Wilt Chamberlain - You need someone at the table who is full of stories and admittedly I'd be grilling him on all his "conquests".....
3) Babe Didrikson - I had to include 1 woman in the group and it was a tough choice between the greatest female athlete of all time or Anna Kournikova (best looking female athlete of all time!)............ Babe dominated golf and track and field like no female athlete before or since. In golf she won 55 tournaments (including a string of 13 in a row) and she was one of 3 people to start the LPGA tour. In track and field, she won the womans 1st olympic javelin and set a world record in the 80 meter hurdles. She was named the female athlete of the year 6 times.
I think these 3 would be a good start.
Bill
Monday, August 29, 2005
Thinking Cap......... 8/29
1) I think Terrel Owens made a stupid mistake by all his talking and holding out of camp. The Eagles will never renegotiate his contract now, and I think Owens has lowered his market value tremendously. If he had come to camp, shut his mouth and negotiated quietly, Philly would have given him a bump, and the public would be loving him.
2) I think Ricky Williams on the other hand has done a great job by coming to camp and keeping his mouth shut. The Dolphins will either trade him after he comes back from his suspension, or they’ll move him next off season when his market value will be high again (2nd round pick). If he was running his mouth now, everyone would be burying him.
3) I think my pre, pre, pre season picks for the SuperBowl are New England and Minnesota. The Patriots are self explanatory but the Vikings will no longer have the distraction of Randy Moss and they’ve done a great job updating their defense. With all the losses NE has experienced this offseason, it’s easy to write them off, but they are the 2 time defending champion and I think they have the most talent on the roster as they’ve ever had.
4) I think Gus Ferotte will be the starting QB in Miami, beating out A.J. Feeley. Will this make a difference in their season? No……
5) I think San Diego will come back to earth this year and be 8-8.
6) I think the Arizona Cardinals will be the “surprise” team in the NFL and running back J.J. Arrington will be the Offensive Rookie of the year.
7) I think when Raphael Palmiero comes out and talks about why he tested positive for steroids, no one will believe him. Does he still deserve to be in the Hall of Fame? I say yes he does.
8) I think my predictions for the baseball postseason, go something like this:
AL East – Red Sox
AL Central – White Sox
AL West – Angels
AL Wild Card – Yankees
NL East – Braves
NL Central – Cardinals
NL West – Padres
NL Wildcard – Astros
Red Sox over Angels, Yankees over White Sox, Red Sox over Yankees
Cardinals over Padres, Astros over Braves, Astros over Cardinals
World Series – Red Sox over Astros
9) I think after “reading” the Playboy article with Jose Canseco’s ex wife, he’s 1 lucky guy. Although apprarently he has small testicles….
10) I think if you have never read “The Science of Hitting” by Ted Williams, you owe it to yourself to read it. Very informative, entertaining and a lot of great ideas if you have a young son that is interested in baseball. Pick it up here www.tinyurl.com/7m3ax
11) I think it’s great that the Contender is coming back for another season. ESPN has picked it up and the new season starts in October. If you didn’t see it last season, it’s worth it just to laugh at Slyvester Stallone pretending he’s actually a boxer not an actor.
12) I think another great fighting reality show that has just been renewed I also highly recommend. The Ultimate Fighter on Spike TV I thought was even better than The Contender last year. I’ve never been into Ultimate Fighting, but after watching the first season, I’ve now started following the sport. This from a guy who gets weak when I cut myself shaving and see blood…. Go figure. It can be seen on Monday nights at 11pm on Spike TV.
Until next time,
Bill
2) I think Ricky Williams on the other hand has done a great job by coming to camp and keeping his mouth shut. The Dolphins will either trade him after he comes back from his suspension, or they’ll move him next off season when his market value will be high again (2nd round pick). If he was running his mouth now, everyone would be burying him.
3) I think my pre, pre, pre season picks for the SuperBowl are New England and Minnesota. The Patriots are self explanatory but the Vikings will no longer have the distraction of Randy Moss and they’ve done a great job updating their defense. With all the losses NE has experienced this offseason, it’s easy to write them off, but they are the 2 time defending champion and I think they have the most talent on the roster as they’ve ever had.
4) I think Gus Ferotte will be the starting QB in Miami, beating out A.J. Feeley. Will this make a difference in their season? No……
5) I think San Diego will come back to earth this year and be 8-8.
6) I think the Arizona Cardinals will be the “surprise” team in the NFL and running back J.J. Arrington will be the Offensive Rookie of the year.
7) I think when Raphael Palmiero comes out and talks about why he tested positive for steroids, no one will believe him. Does he still deserve to be in the Hall of Fame? I say yes he does.
8) I think my predictions for the baseball postseason, go something like this:
AL East – Red Sox
AL Central – White Sox
AL West – Angels
AL Wild Card – Yankees
NL East – Braves
NL Central – Cardinals
NL West – Padres
NL Wildcard – Astros
Red Sox over Angels, Yankees over White Sox, Red Sox over Yankees
Cardinals over Padres, Astros over Braves, Astros over Cardinals
World Series – Red Sox over Astros
9) I think after “reading” the Playboy article with Jose Canseco’s ex wife, he’s 1 lucky guy. Although apprarently he has small testicles….
10) I think if you have never read “The Science of Hitting” by Ted Williams, you owe it to yourself to read it. Very informative, entertaining and a lot of great ideas if you have a young son that is interested in baseball. Pick it up here www.tinyurl.com/7m3ax
11) I think it’s great that the Contender is coming back for another season. ESPN has picked it up and the new season starts in October. If you didn’t see it last season, it’s worth it just to laugh at Slyvester Stallone pretending he’s actually a boxer not an actor.
12) I think another great fighting reality show that has just been renewed I also highly recommend. The Ultimate Fighter on Spike TV I thought was even better than The Contender last year. I’ve never been into Ultimate Fighting, but after watching the first season, I’ve now started following the sport. This from a guy who gets weak when I cut myself shaving and see blood…. Go figure. It can be seen on Monday nights at 11pm on Spike TV.
Until next time,
Bill
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Knives, Rumors and Players Heads Who Have Exploded 8/2
1) Raphael Palmerio: "I've never intentionally taken steroids". Sounds alot like Bonds last year when he thought "the clear" was just soothing his aching muscles..... With the revelation this week that Palmerio tested positive for steroids, where do you put Jose Canseco on the believability scale now with his accusations from his book? Here's an interesting quote I heard last night, "Of all the players in the 500hr club, it took Palmerio longer to hit 30hrs in a season than any other player (8 years before his first season of 30+). He first did it in 1993 when he was a teammate for the first time with (Drumroll please....................................) Jose Canseco. What are the odds!!! The big thing in the media with this is whether the sports writers will still vote for him for the Hall of Fame. My take is he'll get in, it just won't be on the first ballot.
2) Bonds calling it quits for the year - With Palmerio's "shocking" news yesterday, the King of all Media, Barry Bonds, came out with the announcement that he most likely won't be back this year. Amazing how he came out with that news on the day that another big story broke, in order to minimize his. It's certainly taking a long time to recover from having his knee scoped isn't it? That damn thing just won't heel....... When he originally had the surgery back in January, most reports had him back in time for the end of spring training based on the normal recovery time of other athletes that have had the same procedure. I say he comes back next year, hits about 27hr homeruns and then retires. You heard it here first!
3) Bret Boone - Here's another person mentioned in Canseco's book who's head size has tripled in the last 5 years and is in the news..... In case you missed it, he was released by Minnesota on Monday, after being on their roster for a month (after being released by Seattle earlier this year). Here's a player who since 1998 has averaged 26 hrs, 97 rbi's and a .275 batting avg a year, but after a drug testing policy goes into affect, suddenly can't get a job....... He's currently hitting a robust .201, with 7hrs and 34 rbi's. Steroids couldn't possible have had anything to do with his previous production could it???? Nah, didn't think so......
4) Knife Wielding Vendor - On Sunday at Dodger stadium, a fight broke out in the parking lot when a vendor selling illegal tee shirts was approached by security guards and asked to turn over his merchandise. He apparently pulled out a knife and ended up stabbing 3 people in his rush to escape. He did get away and police are still searching for him. Nice place, that Chavez Ravine!
5) Dodger Blue or Red? - Scarlet Red. In other Dodger news, it's being reported that LA Dodger pitcher Derek Lowe has been having an affair with a local female sportscaster. A professional athlete having an affair? Shocked, shocked I tell you! More info here: http://tinyurl.com/ckrof In other news, it's being reported that some professional athlete's take steroids...........
6) Neon Deion - In our style category, I felt it was important to mention this fact about Deion Sanders. He apparently has over 1,900 suits and he keeps them in a 2500sq ft closet. Just think about that for a minute.......
7) Koren Robinson - Former 1st round draft choice of the Seattle Seahawks, checked himself into an alcohol rehab center this weekend http://tinyurl.com/bs3h7 . I wish I could put money down somewhere saying that he'll end up playing for "Da Raiders" this year. He sounds like a perfect fit for them, as they only require their players to complete 5 of the 12 steps in an alcohol program! :)
8) Link of The Week - Grip it and Rip it! http://www.thunderingwaters.com/web-content/dalysplash2.html
I know what I'm watching this Wednesday. Evel Knievel jumping the Grand Canyon! Or something close to that.....
By the way, I heard a rumor hockey is back.........
Till next week,
Bill
2) Bonds calling it quits for the year - With Palmerio's "shocking" news yesterday, the King of all Media, Barry Bonds, came out with the announcement that he most likely won't be back this year. Amazing how he came out with that news on the day that another big story broke, in order to minimize his. It's certainly taking a long time to recover from having his knee scoped isn't it? That damn thing just won't heel....... When he originally had the surgery back in January, most reports had him back in time for the end of spring training based on the normal recovery time of other athletes that have had the same procedure. I say he comes back next year, hits about 27hr homeruns and then retires. You heard it here first!
3) Bret Boone - Here's another person mentioned in Canseco's book who's head size has tripled in the last 5 years and is in the news..... In case you missed it, he was released by Minnesota on Monday, after being on their roster for a month (after being released by Seattle earlier this year). Here's a player who since 1998 has averaged 26 hrs, 97 rbi's and a .275 batting avg a year, but after a drug testing policy goes into affect, suddenly can't get a job....... He's currently hitting a robust .201, with 7hrs and 34 rbi's. Steroids couldn't possible have had anything to do with his previous production could it???? Nah, didn't think so......
4) Knife Wielding Vendor - On Sunday at Dodger stadium, a fight broke out in the parking lot when a vendor selling illegal tee shirts was approached by security guards and asked to turn over his merchandise. He apparently pulled out a knife and ended up stabbing 3 people in his rush to escape. He did get away and police are still searching for him. Nice place, that Chavez Ravine!
5) Dodger Blue or Red? - Scarlet Red. In other Dodger news, it's being reported that LA Dodger pitcher Derek Lowe has been having an affair with a local female sportscaster. A professional athlete having an affair? Shocked, shocked I tell you! More info here: http://tinyurl.com/ckrof In other news, it's being reported that some professional athlete's take steroids...........
6) Neon Deion - In our style category, I felt it was important to mention this fact about Deion Sanders. He apparently has over 1,900 suits and he keeps them in a 2500sq ft closet. Just think about that for a minute.......
7) Koren Robinson - Former 1st round draft choice of the Seattle Seahawks, checked himself into an alcohol rehab center this weekend http://tinyurl.com/bs3h7 . I wish I could put money down somewhere saying that he'll end up playing for "Da Raiders" this year. He sounds like a perfect fit for them, as they only require their players to complete 5 of the 12 steps in an alcohol program! :)
8) Link of The Week - Grip it and Rip it! http://www.thunderingwaters.com/web-content/dalysplash2.html
I know what I'm watching this Wednesday. Evel Knievel jumping the Grand Canyon! Or something close to that.....
By the way, I heard a rumor hockey is back.........
Till next week,
Bill
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Pigskins, Pot and Poker 7/26
1) NFL - With mini-camps opening up this week, I thought I'd touch on some of what's in the news with football;
A) Ricky Williams- Let me ask you a question. If the arbitrator had ruled in favor of Ricky and said he didn't need to pay back close to $9 million dollars to the Dolphins, do you think he'd be making a comeback right now? In his press conference he talked about how much he missed playing, what it meant to him, blah, blah, blah...... I didn't hear him once say he needs the money. At the end of the day, it's just what Rod Tidwell said in "Jerry McGuire", "Show me the Money!" We'll see what happens, but I can't imagine there are too many teammates in his locker room that are happy to have him back. I say when he returns after his 4 game suspension, he is a bit player and the Dolphins try to trade him at the end of the year.
B) Renegotiations - Touchy topic here. Several big name players (Terrel Owens, Javon Walker and Richard Seymour) are threatening to sit out the year unless their teams renegotiate. My stance on this is that the player agreed to the contract, so honor it. The argument you hear is that the club can cut the player anytime so why should the player honor the contract. My feeling is that argument has 2 flaws in it. First of all, you have signing bonuses, which have come about in order to give the players guaranteed money. They know when they sign those contracts, the only thing they're guaranteed is the upfront money, NOT the base year salaries. Secondly, this structure is what the Owners and Players Association have agreed to in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. If the players don't like it, they need to fire the head of their Union (Gene Upshaw), and when the CBA expires, renegotiate a different pay structure. Until then, they need to shut the hell up, get into camp and play football!
##### Editor's Note ##### Just as I get done writing this bit and go to publish it, I notice ESPN has an article on it. You can read it here http://tinyurl.com/7hsew
2) Money Ball - In case you haven't noticed, the hottest team in baseball right now are the Oakland A's. After getting off to a horrible start, the A's have won 37 of their last 50 games including 7 in a row, and are currently only 5 games out of first place. After tearing apart their pitching staff in the offseason, very few people gave them any chance this year. What they've discovered is a young staff which is giving up very few runs and an offense which has been scoring at will lately. The General Manager, Billy Beane, was criticized for ripping the team apart, but with this latest surge, his "money ball" philosophy is being lauded again. If you haven't read the book about him and his baseball beliefs, I highly recommend it. One of the neat things about it is some of the young guys he drafts in the book, are now making their debuts on the Major League team and are big contributors to this latest turnaround. Check it out here http://tinyurl.com/avqs3
3) Love Em or Hate Em - I heard this on ESPN radio the other day and thought it was interesting. Michael Vick. I'd have to say LOVE HIM, because he is a tremendous athlete and fun to watch play. HOWEVAAA, if I'm a head coach, I probably hate him, because he'll be too quick to try to run, instead of running the offense. Probably drive me crazy.
4) Link of the Week - Next time you go to Vegas and you're wondering what to do, you need to take the advice of professional poker player Antonio Esfandiari. http://tinyurl.com/73l9x
Till next time,
Bill
A) Ricky Williams- Let me ask you a question. If the arbitrator had ruled in favor of Ricky and said he didn't need to pay back close to $9 million dollars to the Dolphins, do you think he'd be making a comeback right now? In his press conference he talked about how much he missed playing, what it meant to him, blah, blah, blah...... I didn't hear him once say he needs the money. At the end of the day, it's just what Rod Tidwell said in "Jerry McGuire", "Show me the Money!" We'll see what happens, but I can't imagine there are too many teammates in his locker room that are happy to have him back. I say when he returns after his 4 game suspension, he is a bit player and the Dolphins try to trade him at the end of the year.
B) Renegotiations - Touchy topic here. Several big name players (Terrel Owens, Javon Walker and Richard Seymour) are threatening to sit out the year unless their teams renegotiate. My stance on this is that the player agreed to the contract, so honor it. The argument you hear is that the club can cut the player anytime so why should the player honor the contract. My feeling is that argument has 2 flaws in it. First of all, you have signing bonuses, which have come about in order to give the players guaranteed money. They know when they sign those contracts, the only thing they're guaranteed is the upfront money, NOT the base year salaries. Secondly, this structure is what the Owners and Players Association have agreed to in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. If the players don't like it, they need to fire the head of their Union (Gene Upshaw), and when the CBA expires, renegotiate a different pay structure. Until then, they need to shut the hell up, get into camp and play football!
##### Editor's Note ##### Just as I get done writing this bit and go to publish it, I notice ESPN has an article on it. You can read it here http://tinyurl.com/7hsew
2) Money Ball - In case you haven't noticed, the hottest team in baseball right now are the Oakland A's. After getting off to a horrible start, the A's have won 37 of their last 50 games including 7 in a row, and are currently only 5 games out of first place. After tearing apart their pitching staff in the offseason, very few people gave them any chance this year. What they've discovered is a young staff which is giving up very few runs and an offense which has been scoring at will lately. The General Manager, Billy Beane, was criticized for ripping the team apart, but with this latest surge, his "money ball" philosophy is being lauded again. If you haven't read the book about him and his baseball beliefs, I highly recommend it. One of the neat things about it is some of the young guys he drafts in the book, are now making their debuts on the Major League team and are big contributors to this latest turnaround. Check it out here http://tinyurl.com/avqs3
3) Love Em or Hate Em - I heard this on ESPN radio the other day and thought it was interesting. Michael Vick. I'd have to say LOVE HIM, because he is a tremendous athlete and fun to watch play. HOWEVAAA, if I'm a head coach, I probably hate him, because he'll be too quick to try to run, instead of running the offense. Probably drive me crazy.
4) Link of the Week - Next time you go to Vegas and you're wondering what to do, you need to take the advice of professional poker player Antonio Esfandiari. http://tinyurl.com/73l9x
Till next time,
Bill
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Ramblings - 7/20
1) MLB trade deadline - Some interesting races shaping up out there and a couple big names being tossed around. Baltimore is reportedly going after Florida's A.J. Burnett which could seriously affect the East. Skankees and Red Sox have discussed minor deals (Yank's talking about Byrnes in Oakland, Red Sox just acquired utility player Graffanino from KC), but look for both to pull the trigger on big deals at the July 31st deadline. Who are they looking at? Red Sox are discussing JC Romero from Minnesota and Tom Glavine from the Mets (he grew up in Massachusetts and is a longtime Sox fan) and the Yanks have inquired about Jason Schmidt from San Fran. and Ken Griffey Jr.
2) White Sox - Can anyone stop them? Right now as I type they are 62-30 and hold a commanding 12 game lead in the Central. My prediction? They'll finish with 105 wins and get knocked out of the playoffs early, similar to what happened to the Mariners a couple years ago.
3) Super Agent? Although I don't always agree with Drew Rosenhaus, it was nice to read the story about him rescuing a drowning boy http://tinyurl.com/aukt3 I guess agents aren't all bad!
4) Michelle Wie - I like her. OK, I like her alot. I think she's talented and pretty darn cute for 15. I just don't feel women should be playing in men's tournaments. That is what the LPGA is for. When the LPGA starts letting men (or maybe in this case, teenage boys) play in their tournaments then the girls can start playing in the mens. Going along with this, how come women reporters are allowed to interview men in the locker room but male reporters are not allowed to go into women's? So you're saying women would never let their eyes wander but men would???? Ok, bad example, but you get the picture!
5) Tour De France - I'm pulling for Armstrong to win again, and with only a few stages left, he's pretty well wrapped it up. When he retires, this sport will once again go back to being barely mentioned here in the states as well it should be....
6) Calling Brown- No I'm not talking about UPS but Larry Brown. Can't wait to see him behind the bench in Madison Square Garden. It'll be good for basketball and I'm sure the NBA will play it up big time. Expect to see the Knicks on NBC every Sunday afternoon this winter.
7) Time For a Brew - Good news for all us Patriot fans, as it looks like Tedy Bruschi will be back playing this year after suffering a stroke back in February. Hopefully he's not pushing it too much, as along with being a great player he's also a devoted dad and husband and his health needs to come first. ***** EDITORS NOTE******** Looks like I jumped the gun on this one! http://tinyurl.com/93fp8
8) Naive or is something going on? So she just decides to let him take topless photos "for himself"...... Come on, something must have been going on between them. Where are these women, and how can I get them to let me photograph them? Apparently in Russia.... http://tinyurl.com/dln6t
9) Link of the Week - The man's my Governor...... http://tinyurl.com/a7y64
Until next time,
Bill
2) White Sox - Can anyone stop them? Right now as I type they are 62-30 and hold a commanding 12 game lead in the Central. My prediction? They'll finish with 105 wins and get knocked out of the playoffs early, similar to what happened to the Mariners a couple years ago.
3) Super Agent? Although I don't always agree with Drew Rosenhaus, it was nice to read the story about him rescuing a drowning boy http://tinyurl.com/aukt3 I guess agents aren't all bad!
4) Michelle Wie - I like her. OK, I like her alot. I think she's talented and pretty darn cute for 15. I just don't feel women should be playing in men's tournaments. That is what the LPGA is for. When the LPGA starts letting men (or maybe in this case, teenage boys) play in their tournaments then the girls can start playing in the mens. Going along with this, how come women reporters are allowed to interview men in the locker room but male reporters are not allowed to go into women's? So you're saying women would never let their eyes wander but men would???? Ok, bad example, but you get the picture!
5) Tour De France - I'm pulling for Armstrong to win again, and with only a few stages left, he's pretty well wrapped it up. When he retires, this sport will once again go back to being barely mentioned here in the states as well it should be....
6) Calling Brown- No I'm not talking about UPS but Larry Brown. Can't wait to see him behind the bench in Madison Square Garden. It'll be good for basketball and I'm sure the NBA will play it up big time. Expect to see the Knicks on NBC every Sunday afternoon this winter.
7) Time For a Brew - Good news for all us Patriot fans, as it looks like Tedy Bruschi will be back playing this year after suffering a stroke back in February. Hopefully he's not pushing it too much, as along with being a great player he's also a devoted dad and husband and his health needs to come first. ***** EDITORS NOTE******** Looks like I jumped the gun on this one! http://tinyurl.com/93fp8
8) Naive or is something going on? So she just decides to let him take topless photos "for himself"...... Come on, something must have been going on between them. Where are these women, and how can I get them to let me photograph them? Apparently in Russia.... http://tinyurl.com/dln6t
9) Link of the Week - The man's my Governor...... http://tinyurl.com/a7y64
Until next time,
Bill
Thursday, February 17, 2005
The NBA is so "Money"...... 2/17
With the NBA All Star game upon us, I thought I'd give out some mid season awards and do it "Swingers" style... So with no further ado, Double Down and Mikey will take it from here. (All quotes from the movie "Swingers")
1) Trent: "You know, I'm gonna find me two waitresses here and I'm gonna pull me a Fredo."
Mikey: "Yeah, Well they're all skanks"
Trent: "What are talking about? Look at all the beautiful babies here"
Mikey: "The beautiful babies don't work midnight to six on a Wednesday. This is the skank shift."
This quote is for our "Most Surprising Team" award. You never know when you're going to find a beautiful baby and this year the Phoenix Suns have been it. Nobody was expecting too much from them before the season started but they've surprised everyone by putting together a record of 41-12 and leading the Pacific Division by over 7 games. How are they doing it? Just like us in "Swingers", old school baby, old school. They get out,run and push the ball, and remind everyone of the great up-tempo teams of the 70's and 80's. They are leading the NBA in points per game by averaging over 110 per game which is 7 points more than the next closest team. Do they play defense? Nope, not a lick. That's what makes them so much fun to watch. They come out every game and dare you to out score them. Will they win the Championship? Probably not, but they sure as hell are fun to watch. I wish more teams played like them, it would make the league much more entertaining.
2) Rob: "I'm considering taking a part as Goofy"
Charles: "Well, at least it's Disney, right?"
Disappointment, as our buddies Rob and Charles touched on, comes in many ways. The "Most Disappointing Team" in the NBA so far has to be the Minnesota Timberwolves. Here was a team that had the best record in the Western Conference last year, making it all the way to the Western Conference finals, and here they are a season later not even at .500. Currently they are in 9th place and if the playoffs started now, would be on the outside looking in. They just fired Flip Saunders (here's a scoop for you, Head Coach of the Lakers next year...) and Kevin McHale has come down out of the General Managers Suite to take over. What's their problem? Mainly dissension in the locker room. Both Sam Cassell and Latrell Sprewell are looking for new big money contracts (they both have families to feed and 9 million a year just doesn't go that far anymore....), and with the Timberwolves refusal to give it to them, they've pretty much tanked the season. Garnett has been continuing to play great, but he can't do it alone. If McHale can motivate them, they do have a favorable schedule in the 2nd half. We're going to give them the benefit of the doubt and say they get a little giddy in their hop and overtake the Lakers for the 8th and final seed.
3) Trent: "They're gonna give daddy the Rain Man suite! You dig that? We're going to Vegas, Mike."
Trent,Mike: "VEGAS!"
Mike: "You think we'll get there by midnight?"
Trent: "Honey, we're gonna be up five hundy by midnight!"
Trent,Mike: "VEGAS, BABY! VEGAS!"
Ahh, the excitement and suspense of Vegas. This quote brings us to the "Most Entertaining Player" in the NBA. Lots of good choices out there (Nash,Nowitzki,Stoudamire), but for our money, we like Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat. Wade has been like Superman so far this year. Everyone knew Miami would be good with Shaq, but Wade has been the heart and soul for them. At the end of every close game, Wade is taking all the shots, and more times than not, making them. He leads them in points per game, assists, steals and is 3rd in rebounds. And unlike other marquee players, he plays defense too. He's one of the few players in the game that really holds your attention for a whole game. Truly entertaining to watch.
4) Rob: "Where is this place?"
Mike: "For some reason the cool bars in Hollywood have to be hard to find and have no sign. It's kind a like a speak easy kind a thing. It's kind a cool, like you're in on some kind of secret. You know, you tell a chick you been some place it's like bragging you know how to find it."
When you want to make it big, sometimes you have to move to someplace new and learn how to fit in. This leads us into our "Rookie of the Year" award. For our money, we like Emeka Okafor of the Charlotte Bobcats. Okafor has been everything for the expansion Bobcats that he was for the NCAA champion Connecticut Huskies: a rebounder, a shot-blocker and a tough inside scorer. His impact has everything to do with why the Bobcats have been so competitive when everyone expected pushovers. Others getting mentioned here are Dwight Howard, Luol Deng and Ben Gordon.
5) Trent: "She can't roll the dice. She's business class."
Mikey: "Business class?"
Sue: "Big butt. You know, can't fly coach."
Sometimes you have high hopes for someone but inevitably they just let you down. In other words, disappointment. This brings us to our "Most Disappointing Player" award. We feel so far in the first half that goes to Carmelo Anthony. He does average 20 points a game, but his .395 FG% is pathetic given how many shots he takes, and other than his 5.7 rebounds, he doesn't contribute impressively in any category. Unless he can raise his FG%, steals, and 3PM, he's never going to be anything more than an average player at best. After his breakout season last year, he just hasn't lived up to all the hype, and has been a huge disappointment for us...
6) Trent: "Our little boy is groweds up tonight! And you know what big boy, you're groweds up! you're groweds up! Yeah, dig that!!!"
Our "Most Improved Player" award goes to Bobby Simmons of the Los Angeles Clippers. Simmons' improvement has been dramatic. He won a spot on the Clippers because of his hustle and defense, but he has taken a huge leap offensively this season, averaging 15.9 points on 47.1 percent shooting. His career averages beginning the season were 5.5 points on 40.3 percent shooting. With all the negative things that always seem to follow the Clippers, he is one of the bright spots. On top of it, he seems like a good guy who appreciates the good fortune that has come to him.
7) Trent: "I don't want you to be the guy in the PG-13 movie everyone's really hoping makes it happen. I want you to be like the guy in the rated R movie, you, know, the guy you're not quite sure whether or not you like yet. You're not sure where he's coming from. Okay? You're a bad man. You're a bad man. You're a bad man....."
Who's a bad man in the NBA and the winner of our "Most Psychotic" award? Why Ron Artest of the Indiana Pacers of course! Nobody will forget the scene of Artest bolting from the scorer's table into the stands in Detroit to ignite the worst fans/players brawl in American sports history. The reigning defensive player of the year, the Pacers' All-Star forward was suspended for the season. He is the ultimate Psycho, too frustrating to embrace and too valuable to let go. The guy has all the talent in the world but just can't keep his emotions in check. I hope his singing career is going well, because at this rate he's NFL (Not For Long) in the NBA. Der Kommissar Stern is now just looking for reasons to run him out of the league.
8) Trent: "Look at all the beautiful honeys here. Excuse me darling, I'm sorry, wow. I want you to remember this face here, this is the guy behind the guy behind the guy."
Who's our "Coach of the Year" so far? We've got to go with Nate McMillan of the Seattle Supersonics. McMillan has taken a team that was 37-45 last season and has them playing fast-paced, unselfish basketball that creates plenty of shots for everybody. He also has imposed tougher defense and a more aggressive, attacking offense, a style he has long wanted to use and the results have shown why. McMillan is in the last year of his contract, and with Seattle not anxious to renew him, he's started taking risks figuring he's got nothing to lose. And it's paid off.
9) Sue: "I'm telling ya you're money."
Trent: "You're so f*&%$ money!"
Who's been the "money" so far in the NBA? Our mid season "MVP" goes to Lebron James, followed closely by Steve Nash. Lebron has elevated his game to the next level and has led Cleveland to a 30-20 record (3rd best in the Eastern Conference). The Cavaliers only won 35 games last year and actually the last time they won 30 games before the all star break was back in the 92-93 season when they went to the Eastern Conference semifinals. Lebron's averaging 25.4 pts, 7.7 assists, 7.1 rebounds and 2.4 steals. He walks into every game with a big bull’s eye on his back and still produces every night. Earlier in season, he reached 2,000 career points quicker than any person ever and apparently there is no stopping him. Nash is getting a lot of mention because he is the trigger man for Phoenix's great offense. While we like Nash alot and think he's playing great, we just can't give the award to someone that doesn't play defense. You at least have to make an attempt on the defensive side if you expect to win the MVP award.
10) Trent: "Who's the big winner here tonight at the casino? Mikey, that's who. Mikey's the big winner! Mikey wins!"
Alright, who's the big winner in the first half of the season? We feel there are alot of pretenders out there, but the "Team to Beat" award goes to the San Antonio Spurs. Miami, Phoenix, Detroit, Dallas all are doing great, but it's the Spurs with their team defense concept that is still the ones to beat. They've got a record of 41-12 (tied with Phoenix), score 97.1 pts a game but only allow 86.4 (best in the NBA). If you want to win the title, history shows us you better play defense, and nobody plays it better. On top of it, Duncan is having another monster year, and Parker and Ginobili form the "best foreign backcourt" in the game. I see San Antonio facing Miami in the finals, and if Shaq is healthy, it could be a classic, ala Frazier/Ali. Two heavyweights going toe to toe for 15 rounds with the Spurs winning game 7.
There you have it, the 1/5th first mid season NBA awards. I think I'm in the mood for a martini and some Big Bad Voodoo Daddy!
Until next time,
Bill
1) Trent: "You know, I'm gonna find me two waitresses here and I'm gonna pull me a Fredo."
Mikey: "Yeah, Well they're all skanks"
Trent: "What are talking about? Look at all the beautiful babies here"
Mikey: "The beautiful babies don't work midnight to six on a Wednesday. This is the skank shift."
This quote is for our "Most Surprising Team" award. You never know when you're going to find a beautiful baby and this year the Phoenix Suns have been it. Nobody was expecting too much from them before the season started but they've surprised everyone by putting together a record of 41-12 and leading the Pacific Division by over 7 games. How are they doing it? Just like us in "Swingers", old school baby, old school. They get out,run and push the ball, and remind everyone of the great up-tempo teams of the 70's and 80's. They are leading the NBA in points per game by averaging over 110 per game which is 7 points more than the next closest team. Do they play defense? Nope, not a lick. That's what makes them so much fun to watch. They come out every game and dare you to out score them. Will they win the Championship? Probably not, but they sure as hell are fun to watch. I wish more teams played like them, it would make the league much more entertaining.
2) Rob: "I'm considering taking a part as Goofy"
Charles: "Well, at least it's Disney, right?"
Disappointment, as our buddies Rob and Charles touched on, comes in many ways. The "Most Disappointing Team" in the NBA so far has to be the Minnesota Timberwolves. Here was a team that had the best record in the Western Conference last year, making it all the way to the Western Conference finals, and here they are a season later not even at .500. Currently they are in 9th place and if the playoffs started now, would be on the outside looking in. They just fired Flip Saunders (here's a scoop for you, Head Coach of the Lakers next year...) and Kevin McHale has come down out of the General Managers Suite to take over. What's their problem? Mainly dissension in the locker room. Both Sam Cassell and Latrell Sprewell are looking for new big money contracts (they both have families to feed and 9 million a year just doesn't go that far anymore....), and with the Timberwolves refusal to give it to them, they've pretty much tanked the season. Garnett has been continuing to play great, but he can't do it alone. If McHale can motivate them, they do have a favorable schedule in the 2nd half. We're going to give them the benefit of the doubt and say they get a little giddy in their hop and overtake the Lakers for the 8th and final seed.
3) Trent: "They're gonna give daddy the Rain Man suite! You dig that? We're going to Vegas, Mike."
Trent,Mike: "VEGAS!"
Mike: "You think we'll get there by midnight?"
Trent: "Honey, we're gonna be up five hundy by midnight!"
Trent,Mike: "VEGAS, BABY! VEGAS!"
Ahh, the excitement and suspense of Vegas. This quote brings us to the "Most Entertaining Player" in the NBA. Lots of good choices out there (Nash,Nowitzki,Stoudamire), but for our money, we like Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat. Wade has been like Superman so far this year. Everyone knew Miami would be good with Shaq, but Wade has been the heart and soul for them. At the end of every close game, Wade is taking all the shots, and more times than not, making them. He leads them in points per game, assists, steals and is 3rd in rebounds. And unlike other marquee players, he plays defense too. He's one of the few players in the game that really holds your attention for a whole game. Truly entertaining to watch.
4) Rob: "Where is this place?"
Mike: "For some reason the cool bars in Hollywood have to be hard to find and have no sign. It's kind a like a speak easy kind a thing. It's kind a cool, like you're in on some kind of secret. You know, you tell a chick you been some place it's like bragging you know how to find it."
When you want to make it big, sometimes you have to move to someplace new and learn how to fit in. This leads us into our "Rookie of the Year" award. For our money, we like Emeka Okafor of the Charlotte Bobcats. Okafor has been everything for the expansion Bobcats that he was for the NCAA champion Connecticut Huskies: a rebounder, a shot-blocker and a tough inside scorer. His impact has everything to do with why the Bobcats have been so competitive when everyone expected pushovers. Others getting mentioned here are Dwight Howard, Luol Deng and Ben Gordon.
5) Trent: "She can't roll the dice. She's business class."
Mikey: "Business class?"
Sue: "Big butt. You know, can't fly coach."
Sometimes you have high hopes for someone but inevitably they just let you down. In other words, disappointment. This brings us to our "Most Disappointing Player" award. We feel so far in the first half that goes to Carmelo Anthony. He does average 20 points a game, but his .395 FG% is pathetic given how many shots he takes, and other than his 5.7 rebounds, he doesn't contribute impressively in any category. Unless he can raise his FG%, steals, and 3PM, he's never going to be anything more than an average player at best. After his breakout season last year, he just hasn't lived up to all the hype, and has been a huge disappointment for us...
6) Trent: "Our little boy is groweds up tonight! And you know what big boy, you're groweds up! you're groweds up! Yeah, dig that!!!"
Our "Most Improved Player" award goes to Bobby Simmons of the Los Angeles Clippers. Simmons' improvement has been dramatic. He won a spot on the Clippers because of his hustle and defense, but he has taken a huge leap offensively this season, averaging 15.9 points on 47.1 percent shooting. His career averages beginning the season were 5.5 points on 40.3 percent shooting. With all the negative things that always seem to follow the Clippers, he is one of the bright spots. On top of it, he seems like a good guy who appreciates the good fortune that has come to him.
7) Trent: "I don't want you to be the guy in the PG-13 movie everyone's really hoping makes it happen. I want you to be like the guy in the rated R movie, you, know, the guy you're not quite sure whether or not you like yet. You're not sure where he's coming from. Okay? You're a bad man. You're a bad man. You're a bad man....."
Who's a bad man in the NBA and the winner of our "Most Psychotic" award? Why Ron Artest of the Indiana Pacers of course! Nobody will forget the scene of Artest bolting from the scorer's table into the stands in Detroit to ignite the worst fans/players brawl in American sports history. The reigning defensive player of the year, the Pacers' All-Star forward was suspended for the season. He is the ultimate Psycho, too frustrating to embrace and too valuable to let go. The guy has all the talent in the world but just can't keep his emotions in check. I hope his singing career is going well, because at this rate he's NFL (Not For Long) in the NBA. Der Kommissar Stern is now just looking for reasons to run him out of the league.
8) Trent: "Look at all the beautiful honeys here. Excuse me darling, I'm sorry, wow. I want you to remember this face here, this is the guy behind the guy behind the guy."
Who's our "Coach of the Year" so far? We've got to go with Nate McMillan of the Seattle Supersonics. McMillan has taken a team that was 37-45 last season and has them playing fast-paced, unselfish basketball that creates plenty of shots for everybody. He also has imposed tougher defense and a more aggressive, attacking offense, a style he has long wanted to use and the results have shown why. McMillan is in the last year of his contract, and with Seattle not anxious to renew him, he's started taking risks figuring he's got nothing to lose. And it's paid off.
9) Sue: "I'm telling ya you're money."
Trent: "You're so f*&%$ money!"
Who's been the "money" so far in the NBA? Our mid season "MVP" goes to Lebron James, followed closely by Steve Nash. Lebron has elevated his game to the next level and has led Cleveland to a 30-20 record (3rd best in the Eastern Conference). The Cavaliers only won 35 games last year and actually the last time they won 30 games before the all star break was back in the 92-93 season when they went to the Eastern Conference semifinals. Lebron's averaging 25.4 pts, 7.7 assists, 7.1 rebounds and 2.4 steals. He walks into every game with a big bull’s eye on his back and still produces every night. Earlier in season, he reached 2,000 career points quicker than any person ever and apparently there is no stopping him. Nash is getting a lot of mention because he is the trigger man for Phoenix's great offense. While we like Nash alot and think he's playing great, we just can't give the award to someone that doesn't play defense. You at least have to make an attempt on the defensive side if you expect to win the MVP award.
10) Trent: "Who's the big winner here tonight at the casino? Mikey, that's who. Mikey's the big winner! Mikey wins!"
Alright, who's the big winner in the first half of the season? We feel there are alot of pretenders out there, but the "Team to Beat" award goes to the San Antonio Spurs. Miami, Phoenix, Detroit, Dallas all are doing great, but it's the Spurs with their team defense concept that is still the ones to beat. They've got a record of 41-12 (tied with Phoenix), score 97.1 pts a game but only allow 86.4 (best in the NBA). If you want to win the title, history shows us you better play defense, and nobody plays it better. On top of it, Duncan is having another monster year, and Parker and Ginobili form the "best foreign backcourt" in the game. I see San Antonio facing Miami in the finals, and if Shaq is healthy, it could be a classic, ala Frazier/Ali. Two heavyweights going toe to toe for 15 rounds with the Spurs winning game 7.
There you have it, the 1/5th first mid season NBA awards. I think I'm in the mood for a martini and some Big Bad Voodoo Daddy!
Until next time,
Bill
Monday, February 14, 2005
Wild Times and Rampant Roids 2/14
As Tom Cruise said in Cocktail, "everything ends badly, otherwise it wouldn't end". So goes Jose Canseco's departure from baseball. He's burning all bridges, naming names, and making accusations all over the place. I love it! Gossip columns and talk radio shows are eating this up and so am I.......
1) Steroids – I had a chance to catch the Canseco interview on 60 minutes Sunday. The main thing I came away with is “what human growth steroid is Mike Wallace taking?” He’s what 105, 106 and he looks like he’s 45……. Seriously though, I thought overall the interview was credible, although I’m sure Canseco is exaggerating to an extent. I’m curious why so many people are quick to discredit him, and say there is no way the allegations can be correct? Yes I know his background, arrests, etc… but still, with all the evidence we’ve seen about steroid usage in MLB coming out lately, why are his comments so far out of reality? Now if this was a court of law, yes his comments wouldn’t hold weight, but it’s not. I’ve heard a couple people (Walt Weiss, Tony La Russa) come out and say McGuire didn’t take steroids, but for the most part, other people that were there have been quiet. Maybe they know what really was going on and don’t want to lie about it. If there is anything you can say about Canseco, it's that he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to steroids. In the last 10 years, we’ve seen certain players explode in size and conversely have seen records fall left and right. It’s a shame MLB has waited so long to take a stronger stance on this issue (only doing the testing now after the government threatened them), but hopefully these stronger testing measures will help clean the illegal drug usage up.
2) Bonds – I heard on Fox news over the weekend that Barry’s mistress has come out and accused him of using steroids….. A Major League player is using illegal drugs? He has a mistress? Next I’ll be hearing that they just play for the money. Come on, tell me something I don’t know!
3) Hockey – Bob in Canada was complaining about hockey being cancelled…… Does anyone else care about this??? For being the so called #4 major sport, there is an awful lot of indifference. I grew up a big hockey fan (Boston Bruins) but since moving to California, I just don’t really care about it anymore. I’m sure hockey’s “better” than it used to be but as a youngster I loved the fights and rough play, and guys like Terry O’Reilly, Tai Domi, Cam Neely, Bobby Clark, Ken Dryden, and Matthew Barnaby. You had good guys, bad guys, teams you absolutely hated (Flyers with their “broad street bullies” era), teams you loved. One thing you didn’t have then were a bunch of European players with names you couldn’t pronounce or identify with. I know the hockey purists will tell you about how Selanne, Samsonov, Tchdivalinsky, Federov, et all, are so talented, but basically I don’t care. And judging by the apathy I see about this lockout, I think most people agree with me. My personal feeling is that I hope the league breaks the union, contracts 4 teams, sets a salary cap, and goes back to playing physical hockey. Until then, I refuse to watch any more NHL hockey. What do you think about that idea, beauty eh?
4) Malone / Miller retire – I was happy to hear both of them announcing their retirements. I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about hall of fame. Malone, obviously 1st ballot. One of the best power forwards of all time. Yes at times he could be annoying, but Malone and Stockton will go down in history as one of the greatest duos of all time. At their peak, running the pick and roll, it was a thing of beauty. Best play in basketball, and no one did it better. Miller will make it in too because of his longevity and consistency. After 18 years in the NBA he’ll end up with some pretty impressive numbers. One of the best spot up shooters of all time, when he got going, he could shoot with anyone. He’ll be best remembered for scoring 8 points in the last 8.9 seconds of the playoff game in 95 against the Knicks along with the battles against Jordan and the Bulls.
5) Football – Heard there was a football game over the weekend… Is the pro bowl the least watched all star game? Why do they even have it? No one cares about it, including the players…. They are there for the all expenses paid trip to Hawaii. Instead of the game, why not have a skills competition type deal? Maybe an NFL Superstars competition, or something like that. I’d be interested in that more than a football game, where no one plays defense, or hits, or cares…….. Heard Manning “won” the MVP of the game.. Way to go Peyton, you’re my favorite accountant, cut that meat!
6) Randy Moss- Speaking of football, I want to make a prediction about where Randy Moss will end up next year. I'm going to say the Baltimore Ravens. I think they have the infrastructure (word of the day) there to handle him. With Billick as coach, along with Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, you've got some strong personalities with the playing (and coaching) ability to back up their comments and keep Randy in line. I also think they are an organization that is willing to risk giving up players and picks to try to get them back to the Super Bowl. The Jets are also being mentioned as suitors, but I don't see them as willing to risk taking on "a head case" like Moss. He is definetly someone that, while obviously as talented as any player in the game, can disrupt your organization and be a bad influence on the younger guys. Herm Edwards, Terry Bradway and the owner Johnson are not big risk takers, and I think in the end, will decide to pass on Moss.
7) Timberwolves- I also wanted to mention the firing of Flip Saunders because right now he is an example of a coach being let go, instead of making personal changes. He's been with Minnesota for something like 10 years, done a great job, got them to the Western Conference finals last year, and now because of some players not trying hard (Cassell and Sprewell), he's being removed as coach. I hope the organization takes a tumble and falls further down in the standings (currently 9th). I just wish one of these times, an owner would standup for the coach and say "it's not his fault we're doing bad, it's the players", and then cut the problem people. Going along with this, expect Sam Mitchell in Toronto to be let go as coach as there are players there that are unhappy with him. The General Manager made a comment this weekend that Mitchell owes an apology to some players... Red Auerbach must be choking on his cigar right now...........
8) Link of the Week – If anyone wants to purchase me a signed autographed copy, here you go:
http://www.josecanseco.com/
Until next week,
Bill
1) Steroids – I had a chance to catch the Canseco interview on 60 minutes Sunday. The main thing I came away with is “what human growth steroid is Mike Wallace taking?” He’s what 105, 106 and he looks like he’s 45……. Seriously though, I thought overall the interview was credible, although I’m sure Canseco is exaggerating to an extent. I’m curious why so many people are quick to discredit him, and say there is no way the allegations can be correct? Yes I know his background, arrests, etc… but still, with all the evidence we’ve seen about steroid usage in MLB coming out lately, why are his comments so far out of reality? Now if this was a court of law, yes his comments wouldn’t hold weight, but it’s not. I’ve heard a couple people (Walt Weiss, Tony La Russa) come out and say McGuire didn’t take steroids, but for the most part, other people that were there have been quiet. Maybe they know what really was going on and don’t want to lie about it. If there is anything you can say about Canseco, it's that he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to steroids. In the last 10 years, we’ve seen certain players explode in size and conversely have seen records fall left and right. It’s a shame MLB has waited so long to take a stronger stance on this issue (only doing the testing now after the government threatened them), but hopefully these stronger testing measures will help clean the illegal drug usage up.
2) Bonds – I heard on Fox news over the weekend that Barry’s mistress has come out and accused him of using steroids….. A Major League player is using illegal drugs? He has a mistress? Next I’ll be hearing that they just play for the money. Come on, tell me something I don’t know!
3) Hockey – Bob in Canada was complaining about hockey being cancelled…… Does anyone else care about this??? For being the so called #4 major sport, there is an awful lot of indifference. I grew up a big hockey fan (Boston Bruins) but since moving to California, I just don’t really care about it anymore. I’m sure hockey’s “better” than it used to be but as a youngster I loved the fights and rough play, and guys like Terry O’Reilly, Tai Domi, Cam Neely, Bobby Clark, Ken Dryden, and Matthew Barnaby. You had good guys, bad guys, teams you absolutely hated (Flyers with their “broad street bullies” era), teams you loved. One thing you didn’t have then were a bunch of European players with names you couldn’t pronounce or identify with. I know the hockey purists will tell you about how Selanne, Samsonov, Tchdivalinsky, Federov, et all, are so talented, but basically I don’t care. And judging by the apathy I see about this lockout, I think most people agree with me. My personal feeling is that I hope the league breaks the union, contracts 4 teams, sets a salary cap, and goes back to playing physical hockey. Until then, I refuse to watch any more NHL hockey. What do you think about that idea, beauty eh?
4) Malone / Miller retire – I was happy to hear both of them announcing their retirements. I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about hall of fame. Malone, obviously 1st ballot. One of the best power forwards of all time. Yes at times he could be annoying, but Malone and Stockton will go down in history as one of the greatest duos of all time. At their peak, running the pick and roll, it was a thing of beauty. Best play in basketball, and no one did it better. Miller will make it in too because of his longevity and consistency. After 18 years in the NBA he’ll end up with some pretty impressive numbers. One of the best spot up shooters of all time, when he got going, he could shoot with anyone. He’ll be best remembered for scoring 8 points in the last 8.9 seconds of the playoff game in 95 against the Knicks along with the battles against Jordan and the Bulls.
5) Football – Heard there was a football game over the weekend… Is the pro bowl the least watched all star game? Why do they even have it? No one cares about it, including the players…. They are there for the all expenses paid trip to Hawaii. Instead of the game, why not have a skills competition type deal? Maybe an NFL Superstars competition, or something like that. I’d be interested in that more than a football game, where no one plays defense, or hits, or cares…….. Heard Manning “won” the MVP of the game.. Way to go Peyton, you’re my favorite accountant, cut that meat!
6) Randy Moss- Speaking of football, I want to make a prediction about where Randy Moss will end up next year. I'm going to say the Baltimore Ravens. I think they have the infrastructure (word of the day) there to handle him. With Billick as coach, along with Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, you've got some strong personalities with the playing (and coaching) ability to back up their comments and keep Randy in line. I also think they are an organization that is willing to risk giving up players and picks to try to get them back to the Super Bowl. The Jets are also being mentioned as suitors, but I don't see them as willing to risk taking on "a head case" like Moss. He is definetly someone that, while obviously as talented as any player in the game, can disrupt your organization and be a bad influence on the younger guys. Herm Edwards, Terry Bradway and the owner Johnson are not big risk takers, and I think in the end, will decide to pass on Moss.
7) Timberwolves- I also wanted to mention the firing of Flip Saunders because right now he is an example of a coach being let go, instead of making personal changes. He's been with Minnesota for something like 10 years, done a great job, got them to the Western Conference finals last year, and now because of some players not trying hard (Cassell and Sprewell), he's being removed as coach. I hope the organization takes a tumble and falls further down in the standings (currently 9th). I just wish one of these times, an owner would standup for the coach and say "it's not his fault we're doing bad, it's the players", and then cut the problem people. Going along with this, expect Sam Mitchell in Toronto to be let go as coach as there are players there that are unhappy with him. The General Manager made a comment this weekend that Mitchell owes an apology to some players... Red Auerbach must be choking on his cigar right now...........
8) Link of the Week – If anyone wants to purchase me a signed autographed copy, here you go:
http://www.josecanseco.com/
Until next week,
Bill
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Tee Shirt and Hat Games - 2/10
Super Bowl Thoughts – As Tedy Bruschi said after the game, “we’re a team that lives for the free tee shirts and hats games……” Did the game play out as I expected? No. It wasn’t until the 3rd quarter that NE started going 4 and 5 wide and spreading out Philly’s defense. They started running screens off that formation and opened up the game for them. From the Eagles standpoint, I said going into it they needed McNabb to have an error free game in order for them to win, and obviously that didn’t happen. I don’t care how many yards he threw for, for a guy who threw only 8 interceptions on the year, for him to throw 3 in the Super Bowl, is just unacceptable. Do you credit the Patriots defense or did McNabb just have a bad day??? (yes sarcasm is dripping off the page right now….). I tip my hat to Owens for a courageous game. What he did was unbelievable. Westbrook also played well for Philly. From the Patriots standpoint, it was once again a huge team effort. Branch, Brady, Dillon, Bruschi, Harrison, Seymour all played excellent. In the 2nd quarter their depleted secondary took another hit with the broken arm of cornerback Eugene Wilson so they inserted their 51st player on the roster and kept going….. In the end, New England just wore Philly down, and even when the Eagles got the ball back with 46 seconds left, did any one think Philly could score? They were not just beaten physically but mentally as well. NE is a great, dominate team who have won 34 of their last 37 games(some by close scores, some by blowouts), which is something no team in the history of football has done. Did you realize that the combined regular-season record of the New England opponents was 40-8. Based on regular-season records of opponents, that makes this the most difficult Super Bowl title in NFL history. The previous best combined regular-season record of opponents on the way to a Super Bowl title was the 1969 Kansas City Chiefs, at 34-7-1. Which leads me into my next topic.
The “D” Word – Are the Patriots a dynasty? Five years ago that would have been like saying “Halle Berry is going to win an Oscar some day”. Seriously what were the odds of that happening?? Everyone seems to have an opinion on this dynasty thing, so I’ll throw mine out too. Yes I feel they are a dynasty but not one of the great “teams” of all time. You look at some of the rosters of the great teams, the 85 Bears, the Steelers in the 70’s, the 49ers in the 80’s, Packers in the 60’s, Boys in the 90’s, Browns in the 50’s, they were all filled with stars. New England, in this era of salary cap, has to approach it differently. They may not have the best 22 players on the roster, but they have the best 53. They are able to fill holes when starters go down with injuries and not miss a beat. They have an owner, player director and head coach who are all on the same page about what type of players they want (how unusual to say that in sports today?) and they stick to that philosophy. With the salary cap it’s hard to stay on top now. Look at the teams in recent years that have made it to the Super Bowl. They’ll have 1 or 2 years, then they blow out the cap, have to unload talented veterans and start over from scratch again. Tampa Bay, St. Louis, Tennessee, Oakland and Carolina are all teams that in the last 5 or 6 years each built themselves up, made it to the Super Bowl (some won, some didn’t), but then had trouble with the cap, age, etc… and had to retool their teams. Just look at the NFL draft this year. Tampa Bay picks 5th, Tennessee 6th, Oakland 7th, Carolina 14th and St. Louis 19th. As Jerry Glanville so elegantly said one time, “you know what the NFL stands for don’t you? Not For Long…..”. That holds true nowadays more than ever…. As for New England, who knows what’s going to happen to them over the next couple years. They’ve lost their offensive and defensive coordinators, so that is priority one over the next few weeks. I’m sure Belichick has been preparing for this but it’ll be interesting to see who he picks. From a salary cap standpoint, they’re pretty well set. They have two contracts that will need to be addressed. Brady (who has already gone on record saying he’s willing to renegotiate) and Ty Law who keeps going back and forth on whether he wants out or is willing to stay and take less (his latest is that he’s willing to talk). From my standpoint, Law is expendable, let him go. If you’re Belichick you can always replace a cornerback, no matter how good. Keep the rest of the defense in place, and keep acquiring as many talented players as possible. The formula has worked great, why stop now? So to recap, dynasty? Yes. One of the all time great teams? No.
Jose Canseco – With his new book scheduled to come out next week, reports are saying that he’s naming some former players like McGuire, Giambi, Palmerio, Gonzalez and Pudge Rodriguez as steroid users. Well as you can imagine, they are denying any usage.
My opinion? Innocent until more information comes out (with the obvious exception of Giambi, which the information has already come out)……. One persons accusation shouldn’t ruin someones career, but I do feel they shouldn’t also just be blown off as baseless accusations. We’ll have to wait to see if anyone else steps forward and can corroborate Canseco’s story (Pudge, is it true you got your nickname when you, Jose and Raphael were doing Viagra together???)…… Until I read the book and see what else in it, I’ll withhold judgement, but needless to say, this storyline is dominating the airways right now and will continue to be a big story. I'll have more on this next week.
Donald Young – Yes, I know right now you’re saying, “huh,who is Donald Young?” Well in my never ending quest to allow you to win bar bets, he’s the future of men’s tennis. At 15, this American is the youngest ever ranked number 1 junior player in the world. He won the Australian Open Junior Title this year and became the first American to win the Australian since Andy Roddick did it back in 2000. As a left hander, he is frequently compared to John McEnroe. Ok, now your informed about the future of men’s tennis.
Link of the Week –
This takes balls to do this……. http://uk.news.yahoo.com/050208/80/fbzpn.html
Until next week,
Bill
The “D” Word – Are the Patriots a dynasty? Five years ago that would have been like saying “Halle Berry is going to win an Oscar some day”. Seriously what were the odds of that happening?? Everyone seems to have an opinion on this dynasty thing, so I’ll throw mine out too. Yes I feel they are a dynasty but not one of the great “teams” of all time. You look at some of the rosters of the great teams, the 85 Bears, the Steelers in the 70’s, the 49ers in the 80’s, Packers in the 60’s, Boys in the 90’s, Browns in the 50’s, they were all filled with stars. New England, in this era of salary cap, has to approach it differently. They may not have the best 22 players on the roster, but they have the best 53. They are able to fill holes when starters go down with injuries and not miss a beat. They have an owner, player director and head coach who are all on the same page about what type of players they want (how unusual to say that in sports today?) and they stick to that philosophy. With the salary cap it’s hard to stay on top now. Look at the teams in recent years that have made it to the Super Bowl. They’ll have 1 or 2 years, then they blow out the cap, have to unload talented veterans and start over from scratch again. Tampa Bay, St. Louis, Tennessee, Oakland and Carolina are all teams that in the last 5 or 6 years each built themselves up, made it to the Super Bowl (some won, some didn’t), but then had trouble with the cap, age, etc… and had to retool their teams. Just look at the NFL draft this year. Tampa Bay picks 5th, Tennessee 6th, Oakland 7th, Carolina 14th and St. Louis 19th. As Jerry Glanville so elegantly said one time, “you know what the NFL stands for don’t you? Not For Long…..”. That holds true nowadays more than ever…. As for New England, who knows what’s going to happen to them over the next couple years. They’ve lost their offensive and defensive coordinators, so that is priority one over the next few weeks. I’m sure Belichick has been preparing for this but it’ll be interesting to see who he picks. From a salary cap standpoint, they’re pretty well set. They have two contracts that will need to be addressed. Brady (who has already gone on record saying he’s willing to renegotiate) and Ty Law who keeps going back and forth on whether he wants out or is willing to stay and take less (his latest is that he’s willing to talk). From my standpoint, Law is expendable, let him go. If you’re Belichick you can always replace a cornerback, no matter how good. Keep the rest of the defense in place, and keep acquiring as many talented players as possible. The formula has worked great, why stop now? So to recap, dynasty? Yes. One of the all time great teams? No.
Jose Canseco – With his new book scheduled to come out next week, reports are saying that he’s naming some former players like McGuire, Giambi, Palmerio, Gonzalez and Pudge Rodriguez as steroid users. Well as you can imagine, they are denying any usage.
My opinion? Innocent until more information comes out (with the obvious exception of Giambi, which the information has already come out)……. One persons accusation shouldn’t ruin someones career, but I do feel they shouldn’t also just be blown off as baseless accusations. We’ll have to wait to see if anyone else steps forward and can corroborate Canseco’s story (Pudge, is it true you got your nickname when you, Jose and Raphael were doing Viagra together???)…… Until I read the book and see what else in it, I’ll withhold judgement, but needless to say, this storyline is dominating the airways right now and will continue to be a big story. I'll have more on this next week.
Donald Young – Yes, I know right now you’re saying, “huh,who is Donald Young?” Well in my never ending quest to allow you to win bar bets, he’s the future of men’s tennis. At 15, this American is the youngest ever ranked number 1 junior player in the world. He won the Australian Open Junior Title this year and became the first American to win the Australian since Andy Roddick did it back in 2000. As a left hander, he is frequently compared to John McEnroe. Ok, now your informed about the future of men’s tennis.
Link of the Week –
This takes balls to do this……. http://uk.news.yahoo.com/050208/80/fbzpn.html
Until next week,
Bill
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