NBA High Five

1. Chicago beat another power

Sure the Bulls made everyone stand up and take notice in their win over the Spurs at the United Centre, but to prove it was not an abboration, they waltzed into the Q last night and beat LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

It was a gritty performance by the pesky Bulls, who controlled the tempo and held on for a 1 point win. While everyone is talking about the early woes of the Clelevand Cavaliers, not many people are talking about the Chicago Bulls.

After making a mid-season trade last year that brought in John Salmons and Brad Miller, many were thinking that the trade was made only to improve the bank balance. But the Bulls gelled and looked more versatile. Now, after a quiet off season the Bulls have come out and beaten two of the so called premier teams, and they've done it with Derrick Rose on one leg and no Ben Gordon.

How is this possible?

The Bulls are bigger, faster and stronger. Yes the Bulls are almost the Olympic spirit. Luol Deng is back in a big way. His mid-range game looks as good as ever, and as he grows in confidence expect him to drive the lane too. Asides from his 2-8 shooting performance against Boston, Deng has picked up the scoring slack left over from Ben Gordon.

There are just so many positives on this team. Kirk Hinrich has been unbelievable - going all the way back to Boston-Chicago series in last year's playoffs. He's an outstanding distributor, can shoot the ball and can defend the two guard. What he lacks for in explosion, Hinrich makes up for in smarts and he is definitely an underrated player in the league. The only people who didnt under-rate him were the Chicago Bulls. Faced with the decision in the off-season to either keep Ben Gordon or Kirk Hinrich they went with Hinrich. If you remember last year's playoffs, it was the Ben Gordon show.

Joakim Noah looks really good on defense and on the boards, maybe just a shade off Anderson Varejo of Cleveland. Considering Noah's age it wont be long before his game surpases Varejo's (who incidentally has added a suprising array of moves to his offensive game - which was previously non-existant).

What really has The Windy City blowing though is their rookie sensation Taj Gibson. His play is so good he even looks better than Tyrus Thomas at times. No wonder Thomas' contract wasn't extended. This guy just seems to 'get it' on the defensive end, while having an equally polished offensive game as Thomas. Taj Gibson will see a heap of courtime with the recent arm injury to Tyrus Thomas. Thomas is expected to be out 4-6 weeks.

John Salmons has been quiet so far, Derrick Rose is still recovering from his ankle injury and Janeero Pargo has yet to find his way with his new team. This team is going to be pretty good. I guess the question is - How long can their young legs hold up?

2. Blessing in disguise

After leading Sac-town to their first win (48 points against Memphis in OT) Kevin Martin is down. Yep, the one shining light on an otherwise dismissal franchise is on the sidelines for 6-8 weeks.

But this may be the best thing that could have happened to the Sacramento Kings. Even with Kevin Martin they were no chance of making the playoffs. These are developmental years for the Kings as they look to rebuild around Martin. So what better way to develop the rest of your roster than have your focul point out of action? There is no need to panic yet.

Sure the best way to develop a team is by everyone fitting in and being used to an offensive scheme, but look at a team such as Boston. Glenn Davis wouldn't have had the chance to step up if KG was not injured. Caron Butler, Deshawn Stevenson in Washington would have also been robbed that chance by Agent 0. The list goes on and on.

Sacramento are a young, raw team. Watching the game against Memphis I saw them make mistakes that usually just are not made by your more seasoned teams. With Martin out, there are no expectations at all for this team. It really gives them a chance to play low pressure ball.

Beno Urdih will need pick up more of the scoring load and he should see minutes alongside rookie Tyreke Evans. Beno's got a cool head on his shoulders and should help Tyreke's development. Spencer Hawes game will continue to improve as he'll see more opportunities off the pick and pop. I think the player they are most excited about however is Jason Thompson. He looks like a Tyrus Thomas in his first season with a keen eye for the offensive rebiound.

Omri Casspi should also see his minutes increase. I was really impressed with his game the other night. He seems to have a good shooting touch, with a mild case of vertical explosion. Maybe a future Manu in the making.

So it's not all doom and gloom for a team that, to be honest, not much was expected of anyway. Hang in their King fans. The K-mart injury may be just what the doctor ordered for your team's development.

3. Boozer back to Business

All would have been forgiven by the Utah fans after the off-season circus concerning Carlos Boozer, if he had of performed to start the season. After declaring he would "opt out" of the fina year of his contract, being injured, the Jazz signing Paul Milsap to big dollars in lue of Boozer's imminent departure and then Boozer decides he'll stay on for the final year - basically tying the hands of the Jazz organisation. Beginning the season he declared "all that is behind me". If it was behind him why stink up the floor like he neer has before?

Heading into last night's game against the Spurs, Boozer had gone 19-54 from the field this season, and thats including his 6-12 outing last game against Dallas. Usually Boozer is treated with the sound of "booooz" by a supportive crowd, but last night he was greeted with the more traditional, and somewhat different 'Boooo'. He would be the first to admit that it was deserved.

Last night he made a mends with the Utah crowd - posting his best numbers of the season. Starting the game slow, he sure kicked into gear in the final three. He finished with 27 points, shooting 12/20 from the field and tore down 14 boards, to help Utah break their two game losing streak.

It's important for not only Boozer, but for Utah, for him to play well. Despite saying "all that's behind me" Boozer is likely to be moved before the trade deadline. Utah would want at least someone who can contribute - say a Tayshaun Prince for example. If Boozer plays like he did the first four games the Jazz will be lucky to get Zach Randolph.

However, more on a personal note. No one really knows what happens behind closed doors between owner, player, agent and coach. Carlos Boozer is a former all-star and one of the more gifted players in the NBA. The league would be missing something without Carlos in the league and I hope last night's perfomance was a sign of better things to come for Boozer, in a year that is filled with unknowns.

4. The Undefeated and the Winless

As predicted its the Nets who are doing it tough to start the season. This team would be okay with Devin Harris on the floor, but he is out with a strained groin. To make matters worse Yi Junlian is out with an MCL.
But the 'High Five' is about positives. So let's conclude our Nets talk by saying 'Good luck'.

Denver and Boston conversely ave unbeatyen records, and they have nothing to do with luck.

The Nuggets are the more liekly to see their unbeaten record come to an end first. They are currently 2 games into a 6 game eastern conference road swing before rerturning home to host the Lakers. From this Friday until next Friday this is their schedule

Tonight - @ Miami
Saturday @ Atlanta
Tuesday @ Chicago
Wednes. @ Milwaukee
Friday  home hosting LA Lakers

If I were a  Nuggets fan I would be pleased with anything better than 3-2 out of these five games. If you win all your games on the road and return and lose to the Lakers - no Biggie Smalls. If you lose to either Miami, Atlanta or Chicago and beat the Lakers at home you would consider that a successful week of roundball for the Nuggets.

Boston on the other hand seem to have a pretty cruisy schedule until their meeting with Orlando on Friday 20th Novemeber. Next Wednesday and Friday they host Utah and then Atlanta. These are the only 2 challenging games until the Magic meeting for the Green Machine.

5. TOP PERFORMERS

LeBron James - 25 pts (9-17),  7 rebs, 6 asts -1 rating
Carlos Boozer - 27 pts (12-20), 14 rebs, 3 asts +10 rating

The Mayne Mayne is

Derron Williams - 27 pts (11-19), 7 rebs, 9 asts +18 rating

Nba High Five

1. Planet Oramge still glowing

Stoudamire is back, for the first fulll season since being bustled out of the playoffs by San Antonio (again). While he's not in true STAT form as of yet, the signs are there he, and the Phoenix Suns, could be more than just an eight seed contendor. Shaq is one of the greats, but his time in a Suns uniform did not help the team. Thats no slight on him, or the team - it was just a bad fit.

I like the play of Jason Richardson. It's his first full season as a Sun, and without Shaq in the paint, J-Rich should have the room to drive the lane. Sure he's no Joe Johnson of the 04-05 team but he can create (for himself) off the dribble, and can shoot the long ball.

Grant Hill is playing as well he has in the last 10 years. Increidible to think but heading into the Orlando game Hill was averaging 20-10.

Then you have Channing Frye. A mixture between a Boris Diaw and a Shawn Marion (minus the rebounding). Frye is perhaps the best piece they have acquired in recent years. Boris was a fascillitator, could play a number of positions, but was a reluctant shooter (now for the Bobcats he always shoots. Go figure). Marion was Mr Dirtywork - a player who needed zero plays run for him (but was not a solid outside shooter).

The burning question is How much has Steve Nash lost off his game since 05-06?
That is really the key for the Suns. They have just as good a lineup on paper as they have ever had, but if Steve Nash can't consistently shoot the three, finish around the hoop and demonstrate supreme handles, the Suns simply will not win. Last year Steve looked old and I was thinking - this guy is done, but so far this season, particularly on Tuesday night against Miami, Steve Nash looked like he was back. He needs to hit those shots in the lane to draw the defense. If he only draws a soft covering he won't have the passing options he has as an elite scorer.

Another key for the Suns - Bench play.
What a difference a year makes. Last year, just when the vets needed more rest, they were actually needed more than ever because the bench absoloutely sucked (asides from Barbosa).
This year the Suns actually look at times even better with the likes of Dudley and Amundsen on the floor. For the first time the Suns have players who aggressively get after the ball. They show great hustle on D and on the boards, an identity the Suns have never had.

2. Teams with more than one play on offense

I'm really becoming frustrated with basketball at times. Maybe its just the result of a diluted player pool, but sometimes the game is a simple one-on-one playground style contest. Sure this can be fun to watch - Some of the best moments in the history of basketball were from one-on-one duels (Bird vs The Human Highlight Reel, Lebron going for 20 someting straight against the Pistons), but undoubtedly the team who wins has more than one option on offense.

Last night's game featuring Miami and Washington was a prime example. While it was exciting to see these two superstars go at it, I just looked at it and was thinking - is this all you have? Boston, Orlando, San Antonio, Cleveland and L.A Lakers all have at least two options on offense. I just don't see how these othert teams can possibly compete if they are a one-trick pony.

Chris Paul and the Hornets take head. Without him on the floor you guys have nothing. Same goes for Dallas. They need Dirk on the floor, illustrated by their shocking loss last night. Portland were their but now have others who can generate.

Don't get me wrong, at the end of the day the most important player on any team in crunch time is the dynamic slasher who can get to the free-throw line, but will they be effective in the final minute after already going 47 on the floor just to keep their team's close?

Orlando have Dwight, Cleveland have Shaq, Boston have Garnett, the Lakers have Bynum/Gasol, and the Spurs have Duncan. All these players change the flow of the game and give the superstar a rest for at least one play. Teams need to be able to change the flow of the game through a "conventional" low post target.

3. Dirk's 29 point 4th Quarter

After watching three quarters of one of the worst NBA ganes i have ever seen (excluding the play of Derron Williams), Dirk suddenly sprang to life. With 8 minutes left in regulation the Mavs were down by plenty and seemingly on route to a horrible loss at home. Two minutes later I was thinking 'Okay, yes, Dirk is heating up but he's going to need some help if they want to tie it'
.
With three minutes remaining Dirk had tied the game and I was wondering if Utah was going to do anything to try and stop him getting the ball. With one minute to go the game was a foregone conclusion. Dirk had just dominated. He was not doing anything spectacular by an stretch. He just looked like a player who could get the shot he wanted when he wanted. What was Jerry Sloan doing? I think he was just enjoying the show. Boozer has been stinking it up this season, and maybe Sloan was happy enough seeing him stink it up defensively on the former 2006-07 MVP


4. Bill Walton retires from broadcasting

Congratulations to Bill Walton. Another career cut short by injury. No no - despite being true, it's unfair to a man who deserves the utmost respect. Bill Walton has overcome adversary numerous times, and while this may have crushed lesser men, it only made Bill stronger as a person.
In my mind Bill Walton should have been a musician. He was a philosopher of sorts, and the way he said things was like poetry that didnt make sense, but did. Thus was his career as a basketballer and as a person. His path to greatness was truly unconventional, and through basketball and the challenges it posed to him, Bill learnt what at one stage he thought he never would.

As a player Bill Walton was possibly the best passing Big Man in the history of the game (to go along with Russell). He led the Portland Trailblazers, under head coach Jack Ramsay to a title in 1977, seemingly on the way to perhaps cementing himself as possibly the best ever. Walton had all the skills, but after 3 short years was plagued by a series of injuries for the remainder of his career.

I will miss Bill behind the Mic. While just plain annoying at times, seemingly not even watching the same game as you, he looked at the game on a different level. Fundamentals an and understanding of knowing who you are playing and what needs to be done in order to win. Some of my favourite Waltonisms were:

Player A is of course forgetting that Player B is Left-handed
His elongated use of the word 'Pleeeease'
“Come on, that was no foul! It may be a violation of all the basic rules of human decency, but it’s not a foul.”

For more - One Off Waltonisms click here

Do yourself a favour and take a moment ro read up on one of the true greats of NBA basketball. Click here

5. The Lakers hanging tough on the road

What do the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Lakers have in common? Well a couple of things. Phil Jackson has been a key part of both franchises, both teams represent the biggest east coast and west coast cities, but most frighteningly: both teams have participated in back-to-back (yeah-YEAHHH) Overtime contests.

On Tuesday Night the Lakers ventured out of the Staples Centre for the first time of the season - a short two game road trip to Oklohoma and then Houston.

I don't know whether we should be praising the Lakers or murdering them for scaring their fans to a virtual 'do not ressusitate'. The Thunder are an improving sqauad, by no means vying for a playoff spot this year, but they appear ready to make a move in a year or so. How could the Lakers almost lose this game?

And then in Houston, sure the Rockets have started well, but they are severly undermatched when it comes to taking on the Lakers. The Rockets had this one, but a costly turnover in the final minute, gave Kobe another 2 free throws resulting in OT.

This season already has a sense of familiarity to it - Boston starts off extremely well, just plain punking teams, while L.A looks all out of sorts, but still coming through in close games with the occassional loss against a team that leaves you scratching your head.

But let's look at it for the Lakers. In 2007-08 the Lakers begun the season with a dark cloud hanging over Kobe Bryant and his commitment to the team (he asked for Bynum to be traded - and just didnt like the direction the franchise was heading), but then in possibly the biggest trade coupe of all time the Lakers acquire Pau Gasol, basically for Kwame Brown (and the rights to Mark Gasol - who may be even better than Pau when both careers are said and done). So they have a big new part to integrate and Pau, while fitting in better than most, still looked a bit of whack in the Lakers offense.Then their trump card, Andrew Bynum, goes down for the remainder of the season not long into the new year. So the Lakers have a big piece missing (by no where near the loss offensively he woudl be this year, but definitely in terms of rebounding and defense around the baslet).

Last year, with a full compliemnt of players at their disposal the Lakers cruised to a 7-0 - along the way beating Portland (20), Denver (7), Houston (29), Dallas (7), New Orleans (7). That's every team from last year's playoffs excluding San Antonio and Utah.

This year, they are missing Pau Gasol to start the season, and while Bynum, looks like a beast you still get the feeling that the Lakers are a little thin on both ends of the floor, particularly when they turn to their bench. Devin Brown has secured a spot in the rotation (along with Odom when Gasol returns to the starting 5), but beyond that they don't have too much. Artest has been Artest, for the most part struggling on offense (give him time to fit into the system), but being a lock-down defender. Mr Bryant has just been Mr. Bryant. 40 here 40 there. Ah Yawn.

The real difference for the Lakers this season, which makes for the reduced offensive production from years past with Gasol, Ariza, Vujacic and Radmanovic is the play of Andrew Bynum. Offenisively he looks much more polished. He is getting much better position down low and also understands when to cut to the rim on a Kobe drive. Most importantly, Bynum is not rushing. He looks settled on the block and seems to have at least one go to move - his developing hook shot. Sure his numbers will drop when Gasol returns but he is a more than adequate third option.
I guess the question is. Which year is it? Is it 2007-08 where the Lakers were missing some vital parts and looked pretty shaky all year, but still making it into the Finals, meanwhile Boston destroy opponents and are too good come playoff time?

Or is it 2008-09 where the Lakers haef all their pieces healthy, win well., while the Celtics once again start well and suffer a major injury.

Well its neither. Its 2009-10 and I'm hoping that no one gets injured. These two teams deserve the right to face of for all the marbles this year. They do need to earn the right however, and this season will be the toughest of all for both teams with some stellar compeititon to get through first in each conference.

Oh. One other thing  The difference between the Knicks and the Lakers? The Lakers won both of their overtime games while the Knicks did the opposite.

TOP PERFORMERS (2 past nights)

Chris Paul (N.O) - 39 pts (14-23), 3/4 3's, 5 rebs, 7 asts +3 rating
Kobe Bryant (LAL) - 41 pts (15-30), 6 rebs, 4 asts, 4 stls +2 ratng
Dwayne Wade (MIA) - 40 pts (14-26), 4 rebs, 5 asts +12 rating

The Mayne Mayne is....

Dirk Nowizki - 40 pts (12-22), 15/16 FT, 11 rebs, 5 asts, 5 blks +23 rating

A record setting night for 'The Diggler' as he eclipses Mark Aguirre's record for most points by a Dallas player in a quarter. Mark scored 24 points, back in 1984 against Denver in a quarter. The record stood for over 25 years but was beaten and then some by Dirk's 29 in the fourth.

My Idea of Heaven

Here is my game schedule for today:

Memphis @ Sacramento - Monday's OT Game (I know the score - but I want to watch these young teams)
Boston @ Philidelphia
Miami @ Phoenix
Washington @ Cleveland
Utah @ Dallas

Followed by two Games Live on ESPN
Miami @ Washington
Dallas @ New Orleans

So Here we Go: (Pacific Time)

MEMPHIS @ SACRAMENTO





7.30 - am woken up by girlfriend early, who helps make morning coffee - am weary as i went to bed around 2 am after watching the first half of the Sacramento-Memphis Game.
 
8.10 am - Martin is so hot he decides to put on his Shawn Marion impersonation. Drains the three (Unlike Marion) - Kings up 64-58  - Martin has 26.
 
8.12 am - Sacramento Courtside reporter Katie Christensen (former UC Santa Barbara and WNBA star) interviews Floyd Mayweather Jr. He's about 1 whole foot shorter. During interview Mayweather's head still looks straight ahead level with her chest. Now I how she got the interview

8.20 am - Is Zach Randolph a rookie? He looks nothing like those three other players named Zach Randolph who stunk up the New York, LA Clippers and Blazer Benches.

8.45 am - Why even pass the ball K-Mart? (34 points - Kings down by one)

8.51 am - 2 buckets in a row from Iverson

8.53 am - 2 turnovers in a row by Iverson

8.56 am - Make a free throw somebody. I don't care what team you are on.

9.00 am - OJ Mayo will be good if he learns to play good one on one defense.

9.02 am - Spencer Hawes is Chris Mihm. But he can shoot.

9.12 am - Mark Gasol looks awesome. He had a good first year in a couch potato's body. Now he actually looks like an athlete.

9.18 am - 45 seconds left. Kings up by 3. Time out - they cut to a Paul Westphal interview - he sounds like Bill Murray. You have to have a sense of humour to coach the Kings I guess

9.20 am - Rudy Gay hits an open 3 out of the time-out to tie it. Were they playing zone or was Martin just lost on defense?

9.35 am - Why isn't the ball going to Gasol in the post in OT?

9.45 am - Okay one down. Kevni Martin was just on fire and poor transition D fromMemphis sealed the win for Kings

BOSTON @ PHILADELPHIA

9.54 am - The key for the Sixers is transition buckets and whether Iggi and Young make the right decisions after breaking down Pierce and Allen.

9.58 am - Dalembert looks more athletic than both KG and Perk.

10.06 am - 1/2 way through the first and the Celtics look to be trying to establish dominance inside over Dalembert. Dalembert having none of it. 10-4 Sixers lead. I'd like to see Rondo get into the lane and either finish or create.

10.21 am - Wallace and Daniels. Wow they are fitting in well already. Definite sparks off the bench. The Celtics in no way get weaker when they go to their bench.

10.22 am - Did Rondo just do that? Celts up by 2 after 1Q thanks to Rondo's fade away baseline shot over the backboard. Wow.

10.32 am - This is Boston - Starting lineup - a defense minded lineup that grinds and wears you down. Their lineup with House, Wallace and Daniels - The Phoenix Suns of 2006.

10.35 am - House and Wallace back to back 3's to extend to a 31-21 lead. Wallace ommits a loud high pitched 'Wooooouuuuuh!!!' that can be heard all over the arena. He has his swagger back.

10.49 am -  Instead of the 'Big Three' im thinking 'The Enigmatic Eight'. The Super Six. KG does look a little off. Dalembert causing him problems

11.21 am - After half time The Celts come out with their trademark D. Transition 3's. Killer.

11.30 am - The good teams just seem to get bored. If they stayed focused you would see some ridiculous scores.

11.44 am - Yes!! Rasheed gets the tech. I love it. Go Sheed. He clearly was in the act of shooting when fouled. 'Im goin to pass it out? C'mon Mayne'

11.54 am - Anre Igodula is doing it by himself. Where has Dalembert gone?

12.07 am - What a spank job. The only question now is how many 3's will Sheed make. 6 so far. Sheldon Williams has also hit two nice shots in a row.

12.13 am - Scalabrine sees some minutes. It must be junk time. Celts cruise to victory in another blowout.

PHOENIX @ MIAMI

12.45 PM - are you kidding me? no Barbosa? could be trouble for the Suns in this 5 game road swing

1.03 PM - Channing Frye, He may not pass like Boris Diaw but he could be the perfect Marion/Diaw love child they have been waiting for.

1.07 PM - The Miami Public Address is the most annoying in the leauge.

1.25 PM - I'm shocked. The Suns second unit is actually playing well. Their 2nd year and Dragic and Amunden look so much more comfortable. Steve Nash might actually be able to get some rest for a change.

1.57 PM - Grant Hill is living in 1999. He looks the best has ever been since leaving Detroit.

1.58 PM - Q Richardson has lost about 20 pounds. Good work from Q who didnt let 4 trades that sent him from the Knicks to Memphis then to the Clippers and also to Minnesota before finally landing  in Miami get him down. He looks rejuvinated and should contribute for a few more years.

2.08 PM - Dwanye Wade, quiert in the first half exploding on both ends of the court extending the Heat lead to 12.

2.15 PM - In true Suns fashion they play in scoring surges. Steve Nash showing some 04-05 form with 17 (7/8 FG) so far in the 3rd quarter. Grant Hill cleaning the boards and already has a double double. So far averaging 20 and 10 on the young season.

2.37 PM - After trailing by 11 The Suns lead by 9 with 4 and change remaining. The Suns look great. They may have lost some 3 point shooting over the years but the youngsters have given them some defensive spunk off the bench.

2.44 PM - Wow, It was the toughness of the Suns, thats right THE SUNS, that won them the game. Wayde restricted to 24 points - he did also have 9 rebs and 7 assists. Steve Nash had 30 pts for Phoenix including 25 in the 2nd half.

UTAH @ DALLAS

2.56 PM - If Dallas want to be considered the real deal they need to beat teams like the Jazz on their home floor.

3.03 PM - Perhaps the only thing worse than J-Kidd going 1-11 thus far from the land of plenty is his shocking start distributing the ball - 3 turnovers already.

3.06 PM - This has been an ugly start. Get Marion out of there. Boozer's shocking start to the season continues.

3.34 PM - What's stopping Jerry Sloan from starting Paul Milsap. He adequately filled in for Boozer last year and has been much more impressive to start the season.

3.39 PM - Utah up 37-35 with 2 seconds left in the half. Dallas only shooting 32%. Marion looks like he is playing for Utah tonight rather than Dallas.

3.43 PM - You can tell the game is not the best when Dallas' offense is relying entirely on Jason Kidd's 3 point shot.

3.57 PM - Derron Williams is taking over. Jason Kidd shuold be playing D on him rather than Jet Terry.

4.06 PM - The resaon why the Macvs will never win a championship. No low post scoring and noone who can get to the foul line. Rick Carlisle will be hoping Josh Hoawrd returns sooner rather than later. But even then, he seems to have become a pull up shooter

4.09 PM - Utah rookie Mathews drives through the Mavs like they had stopped for a foul call. the Mavs are just plan stinking it up.

4.12 PM - If the Jazz lose this - considering how the Mavs are playing right now - they won't make the playoffs.

4.17 PM - How good are you Mr Nowitzki? He's single handly trynig to bring them back from 16 down. Its now an 8 point lead with 6 minutes remaining.

4.18 PM - Woah! 16-3 Mavs run. 3 point game

4.20 PM - Boozer has sobered up. 2 straight buckets after going 2 for 8

422 PM - Duuuuuuuuurk!!! Thats the way to play like an MVP. . Game tied at 83-83

4.24 PM - Wow! A new scoring record for Dallas in a quarter. 25 points beating Mark Aguirre from 1984. And counting...

4.26 PM - Nowitzki to Kidd - BANG!!! 7 point lead. Amazing comeback led by a future hall-of-famer.

4.30 PM - 76-60 was the Utah lead with 8 minutes left. Mavs win 96-85. Dirk scores 40 - 29 in the last quarter.

MIAMI @ WASHINGTON

4.36 PM - Dwayne Wade has scored 13 points (6/8) to lead Miami. A 13-0 run to lead 24-6.

4.50 PM - a 12-2 run by the Wiz. With good shooters and enrgy players McGee and Blatche I guess it was to be expected.

 5.00 PM - 'With no regard for human life' Caron is prepaerd to use his teammates as a screen even if they are lying flat on their face.

5.03 PM - Dwayne Wade on the floor and the Heat are unstoppable - 19 first half points so far. Him on the bench and the lead was pegged back to 3. Back to back 3's from 'The Flash' looking to explode after being contained by the Suns defense last night. Sounds funny doesn't it? The Suns Defense.

5.10 PM - Q-Rich looks good. He's getting open shots and knocking them down. Chalmers is slightly off, but he can also knock down the long ball. Flip Saunders needs some defense from his players. Not mucbh of a chance of getting any.

5.35 PM - Mike miller get rid of that pony tail. Maybe then you'll survive a bruising Chalmers screen.

5.40 PM - Refs make the right call. Otherwise this game will become more than just 'chippy'.

5.43 PM - It's a sad day for Jermaine O'neal when he's being schooled by Brendan Haywood.

5.57 PM - I would like to see some offensive execution please. This looks like a pre-game shootaround, with basically Wade and Arenas playing HORSE. 64-64 as we wind down in the 3rd

5.58 PM - Hooray. Someone created for somebody else. Astro Girl Mike Miller passes to Caron Butler.

6.08 PM - Mike Miller is one tough cookie. First off he lays it in one handed - lands on his bung shoulder and writhers in pain on the ground. Struggling to get a hand up on D, he then sets the table for a team mate to tie the score at 73.

6.23 PM This has become a poretty good game. Wade and Arenas both willing their teams on. Big 3's from Chalmers and Q-Rich and Miami are up by 3. 87-84

6.29 PM - Wooah. Flash Bomb - Wade bumps Butler and gets levelled by Haywood. If it comes down to Arenas vs Wade. The Flash will win. Both teams need more versatility in their offense. Mike Miller is gone due to injury but at least he was looking for teammates. Arenas is just taking on the Heat by himself.

6.32 PM - Big bucket by Arenas. Drove through the defense and kisses it off the glass. Arenas with 32 pts.

6.35 PM - Bodies just going everywhere. They are playing this one like an Eastern Conference Final.

6.37 PM - Wade hits the go ahead jumper from 20 feet. 89-87. Wizards ball with 24.6 left on the clock.

6.45 PM - Gilbert Arenas must have eaten popcorn in each of the time outs. Miami win

DALLAS @ NEW ORLEANS

6.47 PM - Who's this Dallas rookie Beabois?. He's scored all 7 Dallas points and (GASP) drove to the baket.

6,50 PM - New Orleans are ordinary this year, but the Kidd v Paul matchup has been crucial - and has resulted in N'Orleans recent dominance of the Mavericks.

6.58 PM - The music sounds familiar early vs the Mavs. The Hornets can't do a thing wrong.

7.25 PM - Back from dinner break - it was roast beef tri-tip. As delicious as a pass served up by CP3

731 PM - Chris Paul is a gun but Hubie Brown was on point with that Jose Barea backdown. What can he do if can't stand there?

8.05 PM - Quote of the night from Hubie Brown 'Every time he puts it up..it's like an adventure'

8.22 PM - New Orleans' two man game cuases Dallas trouble like no other

8.26 PM - CP3 just too much for Dallas' D. That long step drive at the end of the third punctuated a dominannt third quarter from the best point guard in the world.

8.32 PM - 1 minute rest for CP3 but the lead already erased.

8.40 PM  - 15-0 Dallas run. JET Terry finally hittin gsome shots and showing creativity in the lane.

8.47 PM - Its a JET vs CP3 shootout. Both players are shooting an outstanding percentage.

8.51 PM = Who's time is it. Dampier's time.

8.57 PM - Despite only scoring 12 points - Drik Nowitzki fouling it looks like it will cost the Mavs the game. No inside scoring - epitamised by an ugly Barea three point brick. Can anyone step up in money time?

9.08 PM - Barea over sold that CP3 shove but in my mind justice prevails. CP3 has gotten away with it all night. Fault goes to the referees for not calling it intially. If the refs called it on those plays, cahnces are CP3 would not have been so aggressive with his forearm.

9.14 PM - 3 missed free-throws, a stojacovic special and its going to be game over in overtime.

NBA High Five

1. Rocket fuelled

Perhaps the biggest suprise of this young NBA season is the Houston Rockets who are sitting atop the tough Southwest Division ahead of San Antonio, Dallas and New Orleans.

Currently 3-1 on the young season, most experts would have predicted a 1-3 start, 2-2 at best. Consider their opening week's schedule:

Tue, Oct 27 @ Portland L 87-96
Wed, Oct 28 @ Golden State W 108-107
Sat, Oct 31 Portland W 111-107
Mon, Nov 2 @ Utah W 113-96

Three games away from home including Portland and Utah, and one at home against Portland. Portland and Utah are no easy beats, certainly Utah at home where they have been a virtual lock for the past two seasons, and Portland are a Top 4 Western Conference calibre team.

All of this without Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady. For the past two seasons this team has exceeded expectation without their two best players even on the floor which poses the question. Should one or both of their top two players be moved while they stilll have a decent market value?

Well we all no the answer to that one. McGrady is unmovable. His contract runs through the 2009-10 season and is worth a touch over 23 million. Any takers? No way. At least not this season.

If Yao Ming can rehab and come back with half a decent jump shot still intact look for Houston to be one of the Top Four Western Conference teams along with LA, Denver and Portland. Consider the potential of their line-up for a second.

They are the clear winners of the Ariza/Artest swap (well L.A do need Artest's D) - having a young player who can already contribute but will only get better. Aaron Brooks is already showing his chops as a the leader at the point. You also have Luis Scola, Shane Battier who are both good defenders who can rebound and also have a nice shooting touch. Then you have two proimsing youngsters in Lowry and Landry off the bench.

What does this add up to? A team which has no ego. A team that has a cagy scrappy defensive mentality with something to prove.

2. A.I Returns

"The Answer" is back. Or should his nickname now be "the Question"? A career 42.5% shooter, he's the 16th all time leading scorer and 2nd amongst active players. Iverson's game has shown little signs of decline over the past few seasons - his numbers actually improving in his time with Denver where he shot 45.4% upon coming over from Phily in 06-07. Im his only full season with the Nuggets he shot 45.8% while going for 26.4 PPG.

But he was traded to Detroit in what at the time looked like a win talent-wise for the Pistons, but this theory was quickly dis-proven as the Pistons stumbled into the playoffs while Chauncey Billups tok the Nuggets into the Western Conference Finals.
Teams now see the answer as more of 'the question', can we win with 'The Answer' on our team? Hopefully in Memphis he can mentor a group of youngsters back into the playoffs for the first time since the Pau Gasol led Griz were swept by the Mavericks three seasons ago. I think the playoffs are a stretch this season, but after a year's development of the likes of O.J, Thabeet and Gasol they could be fighting for a spot in the next few seasons.
3. And then there were Three.

After wins last night for the Knicks, Clippers and Kings we have only three winless teams remaining.

The Knicks have been working hard this season. Already putting in two extra periods in back-to-back games coming away winless, firstly going down to Charlotte 102-100 in Charlotte, the following night a 141-127 overtime loss was served to them by the Sixers. Happy Halloween Mike D'Antoni!

Finally they took care of business on Monday against the Hornets thanks to a nice 4th quarter burst with 6 minutes remaining. Leading 94-92  David Lee and Al Harrington fueled the offense while holding the Hornets scoreless for 3:10 to bust the game open, leading 102-92 with 3 and change left on the clock.

The Clippers have also come close with agonising losses to Phoenix and Dallas at home, even looking solid against Utah in Salt Lake before folding in the fourth quarter. Last night it looked like they may have lost it again in the fourth quarter, but a key 3 pointer by Baron Davis midway through the fourth on an otherwise horrible shooting night (2-10) and a go-ahead lay in from Eric Gordon (6-12 FG for 17 points) with 1:32 remaining helped the Clippers limp to the win. The stand-out once again - Chris Kaman (25 points).

And last but by no means least Paul Westphaul and the Sacramento Kings outlasted the Mephis Grizzlies in OT coming away with 127-116 win. Kevin Martin was simply outstanding with 48 points. Beno Udrih (16 points), now back on the bench this season, was also clutch coming up with some big buckets - including a game-tying layup at the end of regulation.

So that leaves us with only three teams yet to notch up a W. Last year it took until the 12th of November for every team to have a win (Washington def Utah  95-87). When will it happen this year? Let's take a look.

Indiana should be able to take care of New York in MSG with Spike Lee watching on, if not they'll have five days after their game against Washington on Friday to regroup and take care of Golden State at home on Wednesday 11th.

New Jersey have their work cut out for them hosting Denver, then playing Philidelphia away, then returning home to host Boston the following night. Their best chance for a win comes on Wed 11th when they take on Philidelphia at home.

Golden State - despite being 0-2 after losses to Houston and Phoenix have a really good schedule over the next two weeks which should see them jump over Phoenix (who are about to go a tough 5 game eastern confernce road trip - Miami, Orlando, Boston, Washington, Philidelphia). If coach Don Nelson and Stephon Jackson can sort something out the Warriors could have a record of 7-2 going into Clevleand on Tuesday the 17th. These next two weeks will define the Warriors season.

Wed, Nov 4 Memphis
Fri, Nov 6 LA Clippers
Sun, Nov 8 @ Sacramento
Mon, Nov 9 Minnesota
Wed, Nov 11 @ Indiana
Fri, Nov 13 @ NY Knicks
Sat, Nov 14 @ Milwaukee

4. One week down. 3 overtime games in the books.

You've got to love your round ball. Only a week in an already three overtime games. While featuring none of the first teer teams, it sure has been an exciting start to the young season. Way to wear in those new 09-10 sneakers.

New York played in two consecutive OT contests, firstly against the Bobcats narrowly going down , before going down to Phili at home the following night in OT . Last night the Kings took care of the Griz 127-116 in OT.

5. Tonight's schedule

After last night's lull, which actually turned out be a pretty darn good night of NBA action, the schedule blesses us with a bevy of tasty matchups tonight.

Washington @ Cleveland - Are Washington the real deal? Tonight they face a big test, heading into the Q to face LeBron and a fired up Cavs outfit.
Boston @ Philidelphia - Just how good are the Sixers? Tonight they host their biggest rival who also happen to be ranked #1 in the Power Rankings
Phoenix @ Miami - Both teams are undefeated. Neither are considered playoff threats. Who will keep their unbeaten record alive?
Utah @ Dallas- Can Utah turn things around? D-Will vs J-Kidd, Boozer vs Dirk, Kirilenko vs Marion. Should be exciting
Atlanta @ Portland - Both tteams are on the rise and are looking reasonable so far in this short season. Which up-and-comer will come out on top?

Top Performers

Chris Kaman (Lac) - 25 pts (10-15), 11 rebs, 2 blks +5 rating
Zach Randolph (Mem) - 30 pts (12-21), 16 rebs +8 rating
Chris Paul (N.O) - 32 pts (12-18), 4/5 3's, 13 asts +5 rating

The Mayne Mayne is:

Kevin Martin (SAC) - 48 pts (14-27), 7/10 3's, 5 rebs, 4 asts, 4 stls +10 rating

Why A.I. is playing for the Memphis Grizzlies

Okay, at the end of the 2008-09 season, one of the most dynamic shooting guards of all time and a future hall of famer is available. Do you pick him up? No way!!

What? Are you crazy? This guy is one of the best ever, a player who single handly took it to the Lakers in 2000 for the NBA Championship. He knows how to get to the Finals. He is a flat out competitor and still has enough juice in the tank to allow him to be productive for another three years. Why won't you take him?

Attitude. Thats all it is. Heaven help him if he takes the route of a Marbury or a Sprewell, but if Iverson continues to dillude himself that's how he'll be remembered in his declining years. Sure unlike the other two he is a future hall of famer, but he'll take an early exit when he could have helped a team win an NBA Championship. After only one his first game as a Grizzlies player he's already whining.

"Go look at my resume and that will show you that I'm not a sixth man," Iverson said. "I don't think it has anything to do with me being selfish. It's just who I am. I don't want to change what gave me all the success that I've had since I've been in this league."

Now imagine if Iverson accepted his role as the leader off the bench. Any team he plays on would just be plain silly good.

For example - In Boston - Iverson and Wallace? That's a pretty good tandem. We're ignoring the fact that this would mean reduced minutes for an important piece in Eddie House and would totally take Boston out of their offense which remains a set system no matter who is on the floor, but just imagine Iverson buying in to a team's philosophy and accepting a new role?

Iverson still has a lot of ability. He is still a shot creator, a rare talent, he may not be a good one on one defender but he has a decent enough defensive IQ. and he is flat out fast. He can definetly help a team win a title if he comes off the bench ala Vinnie "The Microwave" Johnson.

But no, Iverson continues to complain about his role, still wanting to be a starter, but what he doesn't understand is he no longer draws the contact and gets to the line enough to warrant him being a volume shooter who totally takes every other player out of the offense. What Iverson doesn't understand is that in order to win you have to make sacrifices for the better of the team.
Back in his days with Philly, he was a flat out scorer - quick and elusive - he could score baskets that made you say "How'd he do that?' and he wasn't afraid of the contact. But now Iverson is half a step slower, lost a little off his shot and cannot get to the line as he once did. That makes him a liability as a starter and moe importantly a liability to a team's cohesion. Plain and simple, his style of play as a starter no longer puts up the W's.

Players win championships by adapting their games and fitting in to a system or accepting a role on a team, not by living in the past.

In short - Iverson has a big head.

NBA High Five

1. Better than Advertised

The L.A Clipppers are one of only five teams to be winless thus far in the early stages of the 2009-10 season. Sure they ARE the L.A Clippers, but this team does have a chance to fight for the 8th seed. Despite their 0-4 start they have faced tough compeition and were well and arguably could have won 3 out of the 4 games if it wasn't for fourth court meltdowns. They could have even beaten the Utah Jazz in Utah, the toughest homecourt in the NBA over the past two seasons.

Chris Kaman is an absolte monster, both in looks and play. Against Dallas, he set a new career high in points without seeing the basketball all that much. Any co-incidence in this new high and halloween? Kaman looks to have added more weapons to his offensive game and it may not be too late for Coach Mike Dunleavy to work his game into the offense more as I'm sure if his game continues to flourish he will attract the double team. Unlike Samson he is better without the hair.

Eric Gordon is one of the best second year players out there and Craig Smith is a versatile big man who can run the floor. Against the Mavericks he did better defensive work against Dirk Nowitzki than anyone has in the league over the psat two years, siince Don Nelson's Golden State Warriors help defense at the top of the key.

When Blake Griffin returns this team will be an exiciting one to watch. The only thign mroe exciting may be seeing how long B-Diddy's beard gets through the season.

2. Finger Lickin' Good

Al Horford - The big man has improved his out side shot. Last night agaiinst the Lakers he went to spin moves, fade -aways. This kid could be scary good.

The Orlando Magic - These boys are racking up the points in bunches. And that's without Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis. This team is deeper than a Ryan Howard long ball. The 2nd best looking team right now behind the Celtics.

Daniel Gallinari - Dubbed 'the '2nd superstar' of the 2010-11 New York Knicks due to a poor economic client, Gallinari is proving his worth. Averaging 22 pts a game and going for 18-36 from the land of plenty after 3 games.

3. Player of the Week

Carmelo Anthony - Wowsers. This guy has turned the corner over the last two seasons, putting behind alll his off-court dramas that had disbelievers saying 'I told you so'. 'Melo has led his team to a perfect start (3-0). To put things in perspective he's scored 113 points in 117 minutes.

PPG. 37.7 RPG - 7.0 APG 4.3

4. Rondo's contract extension

Bean town must be pleased. Their team is showing a commitment to winning. Today it has been reported that Rajon Rondo has signed on for a 5-year 55 million dollar extension.

Rondo's importance may have been overshadowed by the Big Three in the past but any follower of this team will tell you that Rondo is just as, if not more, important. Jameer Neilson of the Magic will have to have a flawless start if he hopes to challenge for the starting Eastern Conference All-star spot.

5. ALL NBA FIRST TEAM

PG Rajon Rondo - Sure KG is back, but 11.8 APG are nothing to sneeze at
SG Kobe Bryant - 31.3 PPG just pips Dwayne Wade for this position.
SF Carmelo Anthony - Sure James IS better but who has the wins?
PF Chris Bosh - Last season here - still putting in the effort.
C Dwight Howard - Does Superman have a ceiling?

ALL SUPRISE TEAM

PG Gilbert Arenas (WAS) - A glorious return
SG Brandon Jennings (MIL)- Out scoring Michael Redd
SF Shawn Marion (DAL) - Doing everything the Mavs were hoping he would
PF Ryan Anderson (ORL)- In only his 2nd year he's 2nd in team scoring
C Chris Kaman (LAC)- a beast on the block

DAILY TOP PERFORMERS

Chris Bosh - 35 pts (10-20), 16 rebs -6 rating
O.J Mayo - 40 pts (17-25), 5 rebs, 4 asts, -4 rating
Kobe Bryant - 41 pts* (15-29)10-11 FT, 8 rbs 5 stls +12 rating

*97th 40+ point game for Kobew Bryant

The Mayne Mayne is

Carmelo Anthony - 42 pts (15-26) 11-12 FT, 7 rebs, 5 asts +4 rating