It's Peyton Freakin Manning
by Jordan Doucette
I'm sick of it, man. If you couldn't tell by my constant Tebow tweets, status updates, and texts- I am a HUGE Tim Tebow fan. Everything about the guy. He is a man of God, a great person, and a winner. I don't like his press conferences and interviews, however. Tim. Just answer the question!
"So Tim, we've just gotten word that your mother has been kidnapped by a village of psychotic Indians, thoughts?" To which Tim would reply....
"You know. I just want to go out there every single day and give it my best. I'm so blessed to have this opportunity here."
You don't have anything left to prove to anyone, sir. You have already proven that you can win games in the NFL while still remaining a good image. Be real with these people. Tell them how you feel. Anyways, that is beside the point.
The Broncos dealt Tebow to the Jets amid the signing of Peyton Manning. I will miss Tebow greatly, especially how much he brought to the Broncos. 1-4 to winning a playoff game against the STEELERS. The almighty Steelers, who seemed to always be in the Super Bowl despite constant Roethlistroversy. No, it wasn't all him, but he had a lot to do with it. Kyle Orton is a better quarterback than Tebow, no doubt. But Tebow is a better winner than Orton, and he proved he could continue that trend at a professional level. Nonetheless, the Broncos still pursued that Manning guy. But understand, there is a reason for all of the madness: Peyton Manning is arguably the best quarterback in the history of the NFL. Call me crazy.
Peyton Manning combines the lethal ability to zing a ball between two defenders and change the play with 3 seconds left on the play clock. Following that, he zings the ball between two defenders. He has the heart of a warrior, not to mention. He is one of the most classy people you'll ever meet. Broncos fans, BE PROUD. Peyton chose you over essentially any other team's fans. I'm more proud than ever to sport my Broncos jersey, you should be too.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Train Wreck in Denver
Melo-Drama. Disaster in D-Town. The Last Stand of Carmelo Anthony. Any clever pun that ESPN can come up with will never describe the suffering of fans in Denver this season.
This summer, Nuggets fans learned that the team would look to trade Anthony. This not only sparked an eruption of criticism, but a change in Denver sports forever.
When Anthony was drafted 3rd overall in the 2003 NBA draft, fans thought that the Nuggets had found their next great franchise player. The next David Thompson. The next Alex English. Early on in his career, Anthony was poised to turn around one of the worst franchises of the past decade. In fact, he has led the Nuggets to a playoff berth each of his first seven season. This leaves each and every Nuggets fan wondering...
Why leave now?
Although Carmelo has kept his feelings on this trade relatively contained, everybody knows that he wants to be in New York. Well, that was until today when trade talks involving Carmelo and the Los Angeles Lakers surfaced. The Los Angeles Lakers. The most dominant team of the past decade. The deal would send Andrew Bynum to Denver, while Carmelo would join Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and the Lakers.
Let me be the first to say this. Are you kidding me?! This would be like giving Bill Gates a $100,000 donation in exchange for a copy of Windows 7. Like giving Superman a high five in exchange for a punch to the groin. The Nuggets have already dealt with a significant amount of injuries this season, adding Bynum would only risk more of the same. As for the Lakers, talk about the rich getting richer. Teams would be forced to double team either Kobe or Carmelo, leaving the other open to dominate their opponent, who would be mismatched by default.
The Nuggets need to rebuild. The deal with the Knicks would give Denver a great young talent in Wilson Chandler, as well as a top-10 draft pick for 2011 from the Timberwolves. Players like Chauncey Billups and Kenyon Martin aren’t going to be around for much longer, and the three team trade between the Nuggets, Knicks, and Timberwolves would give Denver the best chance possible to rebuild. In addition, Denver would be giving up any chance to win the Western Conference in the next few years with this deal. The Lakers would be the Miami Heat of the Western Conference.
And let’s face it, nobody likes the Heat.
This summer, Nuggets fans learned that the team would look to trade Anthony. This not only sparked an eruption of criticism, but a change in Denver sports forever.
When Anthony was drafted 3rd overall in the 2003 NBA draft, fans thought that the Nuggets had found their next great franchise player. The next David Thompson. The next Alex English. Early on in his career, Anthony was poised to turn around one of the worst franchises of the past decade. In fact, he has led the Nuggets to a playoff berth each of his first seven season. This leaves each and every Nuggets fan wondering...
Why leave now?
Although Carmelo has kept his feelings on this trade relatively contained, everybody knows that he wants to be in New York. Well, that was until today when trade talks involving Carmelo and the Los Angeles Lakers surfaced. The Los Angeles Lakers. The most dominant team of the past decade. The deal would send Andrew Bynum to Denver, while Carmelo would join Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and the Lakers.
Let me be the first to say this. Are you kidding me?! This would be like giving Bill Gates a $100,000 donation in exchange for a copy of Windows 7. Like giving Superman a high five in exchange for a punch to the groin. The Nuggets have already dealt with a significant amount of injuries this season, adding Bynum would only risk more of the same. As for the Lakers, talk about the rich getting richer. Teams would be forced to double team either Kobe or Carmelo, leaving the other open to dominate their opponent, who would be mismatched by default.
The Nuggets need to rebuild. The deal with the Knicks would give Denver a great young talent in Wilson Chandler, as well as a top-10 draft pick for 2011 from the Timberwolves. Players like Chauncey Billups and Kenyon Martin aren’t going to be around for much longer, and the three team trade between the Nuggets, Knicks, and Timberwolves would give Denver the best chance possible to rebuild. In addition, Denver would be giving up any chance to win the Western Conference in the next few years with this deal. The Lakers would be the Miami Heat of the Western Conference.
And let’s face it, nobody likes the Heat.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Destruction in D-Town
Who would have guessed it? Tony Romo, one of the best quarterbacks our league has today. Dez Bryant, the most explosive rookie in the game. DeMarcus Ware, possibly the most dominate defensive player in the NFL. And the Dallas Cowboys, America’s sweethearts, are 1-7. 1-7. My Denver Broncos are 2-6, and ESPN’s Tony Kornheiser thinks they wont win another game, and he thinks the ‘Boys are even worse. On Sunday, it all fell apart. Many still had hope that Dallas could bounce back this season. The Boys went into Green Bay to face Aaron Rodgers and his Packers. Needless to say, it was a blowout.
The Pack stormed out of the gate, taking a 28-0 lead with 10 minutes left in the second quarter. The Cowboys were able to get a quick touchdown to end the half, making the score 28-7. The second half wouldn’t be much different. The Pack drove down the field at will, and forced turnover after turnover. LB Clay Matthews dominated all night long, and was even able to come up with a fumble recovery and take it back for six. If you watched the game, you saw “that look” on Jerry Jones’ face. That look said so much about the Cowboys’ season thus far. His sullen expression said, “This is embarrassing.” His angry hand wave said, “My team is underperforming.” Jones is known as a very passionate and involved owner, and today he made his involvement known.
After just over three seasons, Jones fired head coach Wade Phillips. Much of America doubted the decision of hiring Phillips in the first place, so the firing is not much of a surprise. The surprise remains that the Dallas Cowboys have the third worst record in the NFL through eight games. They have won just one contest. They rank dead last in the NFL with a little over 75 rushing yards per game. And their defense, who was hyped up to be one of the best in recent history, is rated 20th overall. Not to mention, their star quarterback Tony Romo is done for the year with a fractured collar bone.
So what has gone wrong? For starters, the indecision of Wade Phillips. He decided to play three different running backs every week, and RB Marion Barber claims that Phillips’ decision shot his confidence. Second, the hype. The big story with the Boys this year was that they had the potential to play the Super Bowl in their own stadium. As exciting as that sounds, it can be a bit intimidating. Unfortunately, the Boys weren’t able to overcome the pressure of being a favorite for the title.
It’s been a rough start for the Cowboys. Let’s see where they go from here under new head coach Jason Garrett.
Also, if you have any suggestions for articles or questions you would like my opinion on, please let me know
The Pack stormed out of the gate, taking a 28-0 lead with 10 minutes left in the second quarter. The Cowboys were able to get a quick touchdown to end the half, making the score 28-7. The second half wouldn’t be much different. The Pack drove down the field at will, and forced turnover after turnover. LB Clay Matthews dominated all night long, and was even able to come up with a fumble recovery and take it back for six. If you watched the game, you saw “that look” on Jerry Jones’ face. That look said so much about the Cowboys’ season thus far. His sullen expression said, “This is embarrassing.” His angry hand wave said, “My team is underperforming.” Jones is known as a very passionate and involved owner, and today he made his involvement known.
After just over three seasons, Jones fired head coach Wade Phillips. Much of America doubted the decision of hiring Phillips in the first place, so the firing is not much of a surprise. The surprise remains that the Dallas Cowboys have the third worst record in the NFL through eight games. They have won just one contest. They rank dead last in the NFL with a little over 75 rushing yards per game. And their defense, who was hyped up to be one of the best in recent history, is rated 20th overall. Not to mention, their star quarterback Tony Romo is done for the year with a fractured collar bone.
So what has gone wrong? For starters, the indecision of Wade Phillips. He decided to play three different running backs every week, and RB Marion Barber claims that Phillips’ decision shot his confidence. Second, the hype. The big story with the Boys this year was that they had the potential to play the Super Bowl in their own stadium. As exciting as that sounds, it can be a bit intimidating. Unfortunately, the Boys weren’t able to overcome the pressure of being a favorite for the title.
It’s been a rough start for the Cowboys. Let’s see where they go from here under new head coach Jason Garrett.
Also, if you have any suggestions for articles or questions you would like my opinion on, please let me know
Friday, October 1, 2010
Dear Carmelo
Dear Carmelo Anthony,
I am not even sure why I am writing you this letter today. I almost just feel like ranting at you for a while, and may even slip in a couple of reasons to stay. Who knows?
I’ll start by addressing my immense amount of frustration I feel towards you right now. I have been a Nuggets fan for as long as I can remember, and you becoming a part of our team was the best thing that has happened to Denver since the Rockies were founded in ’93. You put us on the map, and now you don’t have the guts to finish what you started? Sure, I thought Cleveland fans were out of line burning LeBron’s jersey. Sure I don’t think Denver is everybody’s dream city. But Melo, we made you who you are today. Do you often forget how good it feels to have 19,000 passionate fans screaming at the top of their lungs? Denver is perfect for you.
Well, if I can’t convince you that Denver is the best city in America, I can convince you why the other cities just aren’t for you.
New York: We all love broadway, late nights, and big buildings. However, don’t forget the air that smells like warm exhaust. That all the people love ecstasy more than their own families, and that their average attendance was 11,000 last season. BOOM.
Chicago: If you go to Chicago you will always be known as the next Denver superstar to leave the town who loves them because of selfish greed. Plus it’s windy. Real windy. And Derek Rose and the boys couldn’t even convince LeBron to play for them Sure, you’re not LeBron, you’re better. Like I always say, everything is better in Denver. And everything blows like the wind in Chicago.
New Jersey: They won 12 games last season. Enough said.
Los Angeles: There are so many positives about the California environment. But don’t forget, it’s the Clippers who want you. You will always be known as the “Other LA team’s best player.” Is that what you want. A second- tier job.
So Carmelo, wake up. We love you here more than you know. I would hate to see you leave the city that loves you.
Sincerely,
SportsGuy99
I am not even sure why I am writing you this letter today. I almost just feel like ranting at you for a while, and may even slip in a couple of reasons to stay. Who knows?
I’ll start by addressing my immense amount of frustration I feel towards you right now. I have been a Nuggets fan for as long as I can remember, and you becoming a part of our team was the best thing that has happened to Denver since the Rockies were founded in ’93. You put us on the map, and now you don’t have the guts to finish what you started? Sure, I thought Cleveland fans were out of line burning LeBron’s jersey. Sure I don’t think Denver is everybody’s dream city. But Melo, we made you who you are today. Do you often forget how good it feels to have 19,000 passionate fans screaming at the top of their lungs? Denver is perfect for you.
Well, if I can’t convince you that Denver is the best city in America, I can convince you why the other cities just aren’t for you.
New York: We all love broadway, late nights, and big buildings. However, don’t forget the air that smells like warm exhaust. That all the people love ecstasy more than their own families, and that their average attendance was 11,000 last season. BOOM.
Chicago: If you go to Chicago you will always be known as the next Denver superstar to leave the town who loves them because of selfish greed. Plus it’s windy. Real windy. And Derek Rose and the boys couldn’t even convince LeBron to play for them Sure, you’re not LeBron, you’re better. Like I always say, everything is better in Denver. And everything blows like the wind in Chicago.
New Jersey: They won 12 games last season. Enough said.
Los Angeles: There are so many positives about the California environment. But don’t forget, it’s the Clippers who want you. You will always be known as the “Other LA team’s best player.” Is that what you want. A second- tier job.
So Carmelo, wake up. We love you here more than you know. I would hate to see you leave the city that loves you.
Sincerely,
SportsGuy99
Thursday, August 12, 2010
NFL Season Preview: AFC East
Tom Brady is still a stud. Rex Ryan is still his optimistic self. Ricky Williams is still on pot. And Marshawn Lynch still shares with Ricky. Not much has changed in the AFC East, has it?
The Answer: A Lot has changed. Here's an overview of what's happened this year in the AFC East.
Buffalo Bills:
First of all, the Bills lost Terrell Owens to the Bengals. I would argue that it wasn't too big of a loss for New York's "other team." TO only managed 55 catches for the Bills in '09, his lowest over a 16-game span since 1996, his rookie season. In an attempt to fill the void in 2010, the Bills did...well.. nothing. The only wideout the Bills picked up would be Marcus Easley in the fourth round of April's draft. But one thing is for sure. The Bills did not waste their first round pick. Buffalo picked up Clemson back CJ Spiller. Spiller ran a 4.37 forty-yard dash, making him a top-5 running back in that category. Spiller gives the Bills the speed they don't quite get from Marshawn Lynch. The Bills do have an up and coming Quarterback in Trent Edwards, and speedy wideout in Lee Evans, but I simply don't think the Bills have enough offensive firepower to contend with the rest of the East. When it comes to this season, I don't see significant improvement from '09. The Bills simply did not make enough offseason moves to make them a serious contender.
Miami Dolphins:
It's official. This writer's favorite receiver in the NFL, Brandon Marshall is a Miami Dolphin. Josh McDaniels continued his dismantling of the Denver Broncos is trading Marshall, and not to mention- made the Dolphins a serious contender. Sure, Chad Henne isn't the quarterback that Marshall had in Jay Cutler. However, Marshall did succeed with Kyle Orton in 2009. The Dolphins introduced the original "Wildcat" in '08, which continues to be a staple in their offense. With Marshall, Miami now has the speed and strength to incorporate a WR "reverse" into their offensive scheme. And let's not forget the other singing the Fins made this summer. Linebacker Karlos Dansby, a force in the middle, and the leader of the defense for Arizona the last few years. Dansby brings leadership and strength to a what many consider to be a mediocre defense. With Miami's offseason moves, I see significant improvement from the 2009 season, in which the Dolphins won 7 games. Consider the Dolphins a serious AFC East contender.
New England Patriots:
2004. The last time Tom Brady lifted up the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. It's been a 6-season drought for the Pats, and critics wonder if they have done enough this offseason to improve. Let me start by telling you this, I am one of those critics. The Brady Bunch made no major offseason additions. While the Pats were a playoff team last year, I still believe that this aging team is past their prime. New England has always struggled at running back. Although Lawrence Maroney seemed like a possible star at the beginning of his career, injuries have set him back. Their offense is much too one dimensional. While their defense was rated 8th in the NFL last season. Another question lingering among Pats faithful is how the battered Wes Welker will return. Welker tore his ACL late last season. Although Welker is one of the best slot receivers in the history of the game, a knee injury for a wideout can seriously alter a career. I look forward to seeing how Wes will come back this season. Overall, consider the Pats a threat to win the east, but don't expect a super bowl win.
New York Jets:
I'll start this post out with a math equation. Darelle Revis+Antonio Cromartie= Best Secondary in the NFL. And another. Rex Ryan + Jets Offense= Consistently one of the best. In simple terms, The New York Jets are going to be good, real good. Let's start with New York's offseason moves. LaDanian Tomlinson. Antonio Cromartie, and Santonio Holmes. Three stars in their previous homes, these three have a shot to make a significant impact for the Jets. The AFC may experience a fly-by when the Jets come to town.
To me, the AFC East has a chance to be an elite division this year. I can see three teams playing come playoff time. Let's take a second to look at my predicted standings in the AFC East.
1) New York- 11-5
2) New England- 10-6
3) Miami- 10-6
4) Buffalo- 7-9
Next up: NFC East
The Answer: A Lot has changed. Here's an overview of what's happened this year in the AFC East.
Buffalo Bills:
First of all, the Bills lost Terrell Owens to the Bengals. I would argue that it wasn't too big of a loss for New York's "other team." TO only managed 55 catches for the Bills in '09, his lowest over a 16-game span since 1996, his rookie season. In an attempt to fill the void in 2010, the Bills did...well.. nothing. The only wideout the Bills picked up would be Marcus Easley in the fourth round of April's draft. But one thing is for sure. The Bills did not waste their first round pick. Buffalo picked up Clemson back CJ Spiller. Spiller ran a 4.37 forty-yard dash, making him a top-5 running back in that category. Spiller gives the Bills the speed they don't quite get from Marshawn Lynch. The Bills do have an up and coming Quarterback in Trent Edwards, and speedy wideout in Lee Evans, but I simply don't think the Bills have enough offensive firepower to contend with the rest of the East. When it comes to this season, I don't see significant improvement from '09. The Bills simply did not make enough offseason moves to make them a serious contender.
Miami Dolphins:
It's official. This writer's favorite receiver in the NFL, Brandon Marshall is a Miami Dolphin. Josh McDaniels continued his dismantling of the Denver Broncos is trading Marshall, and not to mention- made the Dolphins a serious contender. Sure, Chad Henne isn't the quarterback that Marshall had in Jay Cutler. However, Marshall did succeed with Kyle Orton in 2009. The Dolphins introduced the original "Wildcat" in '08, which continues to be a staple in their offense. With Marshall, Miami now has the speed and strength to incorporate a WR "reverse" into their offensive scheme. And let's not forget the other singing the Fins made this summer. Linebacker Karlos Dansby, a force in the middle, and the leader of the defense for Arizona the last few years. Dansby brings leadership and strength to a what many consider to be a mediocre defense. With Miami's offseason moves, I see significant improvement from the 2009 season, in which the Dolphins won 7 games. Consider the Dolphins a serious AFC East contender.
New England Patriots:
2004. The last time Tom Brady lifted up the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. It's been a 6-season drought for the Pats, and critics wonder if they have done enough this offseason to improve. Let me start by telling you this, I am one of those critics. The Brady Bunch made no major offseason additions. While the Pats were a playoff team last year, I still believe that this aging team is past their prime. New England has always struggled at running back. Although Lawrence Maroney seemed like a possible star at the beginning of his career, injuries have set him back. Their offense is much too one dimensional. While their defense was rated 8th in the NFL last season. Another question lingering among Pats faithful is how the battered Wes Welker will return. Welker tore his ACL late last season. Although Welker is one of the best slot receivers in the history of the game, a knee injury for a wideout can seriously alter a career. I look forward to seeing how Wes will come back this season. Overall, consider the Pats a threat to win the east, but don't expect a super bowl win.
New York Jets:
I'll start this post out with a math equation. Darelle Revis+Antonio Cromartie= Best Secondary in the NFL. And another. Rex Ryan + Jets Offense= Consistently one of the best. In simple terms, The New York Jets are going to be good, real good. Let's start with New York's offseason moves. LaDanian Tomlinson. Antonio Cromartie, and Santonio Holmes. Three stars in their previous homes, these three have a shot to make a significant impact for the Jets. The AFC may experience a fly-by when the Jets come to town.
To me, the AFC East has a chance to be an elite division this year. I can see three teams playing come playoff time. Let's take a second to look at my predicted standings in the AFC East.
1) New York- 11-5
2) New England- 10-6
3) Miami- 10-6
4) Buffalo- 7-9
Next up: NFC East
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Simply LeBron
We have had Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert “The Chief” Parish. MJ, Scottie Pippin and Dennis Rodman. Some would even mention Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Unfortunately for these nine men, the spotlight has shifted as of Thursday. LeBron James, the L-Train, King James, the Akron Hammer- has joined Draft class of ’03 superstars such as Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh to play for the Miami Heat.
Let’s start with Bosh, who was once deemed the “New Hope” of the Toronto franchise. Bosh, the 4th overall pick of the 2003 draft, has left the Raptors after 7 seasons of leading the team with 20.7 PPG. Bosh gives the squad a big mid-range threat, as well as a lengthy defender and consistent post-up man. Bosh may be considered the third-wheel to Wade and LBJ, but his presence will be felt come October.
Bosh gives LeBron the power forward he has always dreamed of. This next guy gives the King the best Shooting Guard in the Eastern Conference. His name- Dwayne Wade. D-Wade gives LeBron exactly what he has waited for in a 1-2 punch. Wade is an excellent passer, and never gives anything but his best (cough.. Hanley Ramirez). D-Wade and LBJ could make an excellent 1-2 combo by themselves. Adding Bosh to the equation only amplifies the threat of the Miami Heat.
Let me throw an analogy of sorts at you. The Miami Heat are the Michael Jordan- era Bulls. Pippin, Rodman, and MJ run this team, right? Bosh resembles Dennis Rodman, a defensive minded player with a dominating presence on the glass. D-Wade is Scottie Pippin, the humble workhorse. And of course, LeBron is MJ, the best player on the court, no matter who he is playing. All 6 of these men are excellent players, but if you were going to be compared to one of the Bulls, wouldn’t you want it to be Michael Jordan- the best player in NBA history. I’m sure that’s how LeBron feels, and he should. He is arguably became the most dominating presence in the NBA the second he stepped foot on the court.
Here’s where the debate gets heated (get it, Heat-ed?) How will the Heat fare over the next several seasons? Will they be as dominant as they look on paper? And will the three stars be able to accept reduced roles?
Question 1: Will the three stars be able to accept reduced roles?
This is a debate not to be overlooked. One might ask, “They took pay cuts, how would their roles on the team be affected?” It’s simple. All three of these men are used to being THE guy on their respective teams. When you go seven years as the #1 man, a #2 or #3 role might not be what your hoping for. However, I have watched these men play since they came into the league, and that has led me to believe this will work for 2 reasons. 1)Dwayne Wade. A humble leader with a fiery spirit. His leadership will bring this Miami squad together for years to come. (I can see the locker room speeches already- “Well, boys, we lost our first game of the year last night, making us 29-1. Simply put, we need to get our heads straight!”) 2. The idea of playing with LeBron James. He is arguably the best basketball player of his generation, and he makes everyone around him better. That in itself should be enough to keep the Heat motivated as a team.
Will the Heat be as good as they look on paper?
The Miami Heat starting three were 3 of 5 starters for the Eastern Conference All-Stars last year. Combined, the threesome has scored an average of over 70 points per game over the last 7 seasons. In other words, this team should dominate. Whether they will perform to these expectations is up to them, however. If the threesome can accept their roles as teammates (not superstars), it is possible that the Heat can pull together a 65-win season. Not to mention an NBA title. In other words, barring injury, the Heat can be as good as they look on paper.
How will the Heat fare over the next few seasons?
The first season will be a molding year. It will be a lot of getting used to each other. I’d say that will just talent, the Heat can come up with a 55-win season. Once molded, however, the Heat will be a force to be reckoned with. King James will prove Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert wrong. Gilbert guaranteed Cleveland fans a championship before LeBron. Not gonna happen. Miami will take home a ring by 2013. If not, I owe all of my subscribers $5, deal. Hold me to it.
All in all, I can’t wait for the NBA season to get underway. Although no one will give my Nuggets a look, if we can land a solid free-agent Shooting Guard, watch out. It may be early in the summer for predictions regarding next season, but next week will be my article concerning just that.
One last thing. Recently my Uncle, Morgan Bolls had a heart attack. He will be discharged from the hospital today, going home diagnosed with Diabetes. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you.
Let’s start with Bosh, who was once deemed the “New Hope” of the Toronto franchise. Bosh, the 4th overall pick of the 2003 draft, has left the Raptors after 7 seasons of leading the team with 20.7 PPG. Bosh gives the squad a big mid-range threat, as well as a lengthy defender and consistent post-up man. Bosh may be considered the third-wheel to Wade and LBJ, but his presence will be felt come October.
Bosh gives LeBron the power forward he has always dreamed of. This next guy gives the King the best Shooting Guard in the Eastern Conference. His name- Dwayne Wade. D-Wade gives LeBron exactly what he has waited for in a 1-2 punch. Wade is an excellent passer, and never gives anything but his best (cough.. Hanley Ramirez). D-Wade and LBJ could make an excellent 1-2 combo by themselves. Adding Bosh to the equation only amplifies the threat of the Miami Heat.
Let me throw an analogy of sorts at you. The Miami Heat are the Michael Jordan- era Bulls. Pippin, Rodman, and MJ run this team, right? Bosh resembles Dennis Rodman, a defensive minded player with a dominating presence on the glass. D-Wade is Scottie Pippin, the humble workhorse. And of course, LeBron is MJ, the best player on the court, no matter who he is playing. All 6 of these men are excellent players, but if you were going to be compared to one of the Bulls, wouldn’t you want it to be Michael Jordan- the best player in NBA history. I’m sure that’s how LeBron feels, and he should. He is arguably became the most dominating presence in the NBA the second he stepped foot on the court.
Here’s where the debate gets heated (get it, Heat-ed?) How will the Heat fare over the next several seasons? Will they be as dominant as they look on paper? And will the three stars be able to accept reduced roles?
Question 1: Will the three stars be able to accept reduced roles?
This is a debate not to be overlooked. One might ask, “They took pay cuts, how would their roles on the team be affected?” It’s simple. All three of these men are used to being THE guy on their respective teams. When you go seven years as the #1 man, a #2 or #3 role might not be what your hoping for. However, I have watched these men play since they came into the league, and that has led me to believe this will work for 2 reasons. 1)Dwayne Wade. A humble leader with a fiery spirit. His leadership will bring this Miami squad together for years to come. (I can see the locker room speeches already- “Well, boys, we lost our first game of the year last night, making us 29-1. Simply put, we need to get our heads straight!”) 2. The idea of playing with LeBron James. He is arguably the best basketball player of his generation, and he makes everyone around him better. That in itself should be enough to keep the Heat motivated as a team.
Will the Heat be as good as they look on paper?
The Miami Heat starting three were 3 of 5 starters for the Eastern Conference All-Stars last year. Combined, the threesome has scored an average of over 70 points per game over the last 7 seasons. In other words, this team should dominate. Whether they will perform to these expectations is up to them, however. If the threesome can accept their roles as teammates (not superstars), it is possible that the Heat can pull together a 65-win season. Not to mention an NBA title. In other words, barring injury, the Heat can be as good as they look on paper.
How will the Heat fare over the next few seasons?
The first season will be a molding year. It will be a lot of getting used to each other. I’d say that will just talent, the Heat can come up with a 55-win season. Once molded, however, the Heat will be a force to be reckoned with. King James will prove Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert wrong. Gilbert guaranteed Cleveland fans a championship before LeBron. Not gonna happen. Miami will take home a ring by 2013. If not, I owe all of my subscribers $5, deal. Hold me to it.
All in all, I can’t wait for the NBA season to get underway. Although no one will give my Nuggets a look, if we can land a solid free-agent Shooting Guard, watch out. It may be early in the summer for predictions regarding next season, but next week will be my article concerning just that.
One last thing. Recently my Uncle, Morgan Bolls had a heart attack. He will be discharged from the hospital today, going home diagnosed with Diabetes. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Fiesta Friday!
I’d like to start off by saying that I am currently listening to Jack Johnson. So if this post seems overly chill, I apologize, Mr. Johnson has that affect on me. Moving on. What a past two days! Since Wiff-Fest 2k10, so much has happened. The Lake Show are world champions yet again. It seems Jim Joyce has died and reincarnated as Koman Coulibaly, the referee from this morning’s USA v. Slovenia World Cup game. England tied to give the USA a chance to advance. And Tiger Woods’ “karma tour” continued today, as he shot 4 over par on day two of the U.S. Open. It seems that God has blessed me with plenty to write about today. Lets start with the NBA Finals.
I have received several questions regarding the NBA Finals. “Jordan, how did you know the Lakers would win game 7?” “How did you know that Ron Artest would take it to Paul Pierce late in the series?” And my favorite, “Jordan, why are you so good-looking?” I know the answer to two of these things. I knew the Lakers would win in 7 because I saw one thing. The Lakers and the Celtics are extremely well-matched, so I truly believed home-court would decide it. Both teams lost just one contest on their home courts respectively. But it came down to the Lakers having one more home game than the Celtics. As for Ron Artest, I knew the second I saw him taking it to the Melo man that he was a force. He proved to be no less than that against Boston. As for the third question- Thank you Mom and Dad :)
Let’s move on. The World Cup! USA! USA! USA! Comeback of the year? I believe so! Landon Donovan goes top shelf, Michael Bradley scores with nine minutes left in regulation, and we still end up tied with the smallest nation in the World Cup, Slovenia. How did this happen? Not only did the USA come out sluggish, but a referee named Koman Coulibaly seemed a little sluggish himself. In case you were hibernating at the time, or you were busy hating soccer, you missed a monumental missed call. In the 86th minute, American forward Maurice Adu kicked one into the back of the net, only to hear a whistle shortly after. “What?!” every American in sight hollered. The call was offsides. I don’t know if Coulibaly has a grudge against America or what, but there was no one even close to being offsides. As heart wrenching as it seems, the U.S. needs to get focused on winning their next match against Algeria. Because it’s win or go home from here on out, boys. Thankfully, England tied their match against Algeria to give the US a chance of advancing. It will all come down to the next match for the Americans.
Tiger Woods has been the subject of constant humiliation from myself and my friend JJ as of late. But as the Tiger jokes ease up, his swing is more tense than ever. Tiger shot 4 over par today after an even round yesterday. This puts the Tiger tied for 40th in the US Open. I miss the Tiger from the ’08 US Open. Battling though extreme knee pain to putt hiss way to the title. Where did that man go, Mr. Woods? Your fans want that fire back. I’m sure you do as well. Maybe take a little more time off. Heal up. Get your relationship with your family straight. Family comes first, Tiger, and yours needs you more than ever.
Ladies and Gents, get your Kleenex box out. I have some bad news. Well, bad news for you. I’m going to Hawaii in the morning! So for the next ten days, your sports opinions can no longer come from me. I may slip in a “Hello” to my followers at some point, but I can’t promise a sports piece. I’ll be at the beach :) See you all June 30th!
I have received several questions regarding the NBA Finals. “Jordan, how did you know the Lakers would win game 7?” “How did you know that Ron Artest would take it to Paul Pierce late in the series?” And my favorite, “Jordan, why are you so good-looking?” I know the answer to two of these things. I knew the Lakers would win in 7 because I saw one thing. The Lakers and the Celtics are extremely well-matched, so I truly believed home-court would decide it. Both teams lost just one contest on their home courts respectively. But it came down to the Lakers having one more home game than the Celtics. As for Ron Artest, I knew the second I saw him taking it to the Melo man that he was a force. He proved to be no less than that against Boston. As for the third question- Thank you Mom and Dad :)
Let’s move on. The World Cup! USA! USA! USA! Comeback of the year? I believe so! Landon Donovan goes top shelf, Michael Bradley scores with nine minutes left in regulation, and we still end up tied with the smallest nation in the World Cup, Slovenia. How did this happen? Not only did the USA come out sluggish, but a referee named Koman Coulibaly seemed a little sluggish himself. In case you were hibernating at the time, or you were busy hating soccer, you missed a monumental missed call. In the 86th minute, American forward Maurice Adu kicked one into the back of the net, only to hear a whistle shortly after. “What?!” every American in sight hollered. The call was offsides. I don’t know if Coulibaly has a grudge against America or what, but there was no one even close to being offsides. As heart wrenching as it seems, the U.S. needs to get focused on winning their next match against Algeria. Because it’s win or go home from here on out, boys. Thankfully, England tied their match against Algeria to give the US a chance of advancing. It will all come down to the next match for the Americans.
Tiger Woods has been the subject of constant humiliation from myself and my friend JJ as of late. But as the Tiger jokes ease up, his swing is more tense than ever. Tiger shot 4 over par today after an even round yesterday. This puts the Tiger tied for 40th in the US Open. I miss the Tiger from the ’08 US Open. Battling though extreme knee pain to putt hiss way to the title. Where did that man go, Mr. Woods? Your fans want that fire back. I’m sure you do as well. Maybe take a little more time off. Heal up. Get your relationship with your family straight. Family comes first, Tiger, and yours needs you more than ever.
Ladies and Gents, get your Kleenex box out. I have some bad news. Well, bad news for you. I’m going to Hawaii in the morning! So for the next ten days, your sports opinions can no longer come from me. I may slip in a “Hello” to my followers at some point, but I can’t promise a sports piece. I’ll be at the beach :) See you all June 30th!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)