NBA anyone?

[T Strife]

If One HD must cut small chunks out of replay matches, I'd like the footage of a guy who just busted his knee to be one of these chunks...

*grimace*

[Jabbz]

Actually, I was glad I saw it. I had read he was out and was curious.

Mind you, that was a pretty bad knee injury, shame he's out for the season. New Orleans will definitely miss him.

[T Strife]

Knee injuries are likely worse to watch when you've suffered a few yourself.

Actually, factoring that in, both Utah and New Orleans are pretty much screwed as a result of that game. Not that either should be hoping for much more than making the first round of the playoffs.

In other, totally unrelated news, Derrick Rose continues to be amazing. In fact, the whole Chicago team is showing great chemistry - I've gone from thinking that they had huge potential that would blossom over the next three or so years to thinking that they could conceivably take the trophy this season.

[Azzaman]

Knee injuries are likely worse to watch when you've suffered a few yourself.

Actually, factoring that in, both Utah and New Orleans are pretty much screwed as a result of that game. Not that either should be hoping for much more than making the first round of the playoffs.

In other, totally unrelated news, Derrick Rose continues to be amazing. In fact, the whole Chicago team is showing great chemistry - I've gone from thinking that they had huge potential that would blossom over the next three or so years to thinking that they could conceivably take the trophy this season.

After the last few months I'm picking them to win it.

[dimorphic]

After the last few months I'm picking them to win it.

Never count out the Lakers. Under the radar a bit this year which is odd considering we're the x2 defending world champions. Happy to keep sliding sight unseen though.

[Natrak]

I really want to see a three-peat to be perfectly honest.

[Azzaman]

Well the spurs and mavs also look very good, I wouldn't be surprised if the heat shocked everyone and got their sh*t sorted come playoffs either.

I still think Chicago look the goods and have a very complete team though. Could be a very good finals series this year.

[nonch]

All season I've been waiting for the Spurs to slide, and unfortunately it's happening at a terrible time.
Duncan, Ginobili and Parker all out injured, four straight losses.
All should be fine for playoffs, but home court is a must, so we need to maintain top spot.
Lakers are starting to look very dangerous.

[Azzaman]

Chicago's play against Indiana is shaking my faith in them slightly. They are winning, but not as convincingly as I would've thought.

Dallas v Portland, why is this the series that One HD show? Patty isn't even playing any minutes. It's a close series sure, but there are so many more important match ups or more interesting teams to watch here...

[Super Sleuth]

The Memphis v San Antonio series has been the best so far.

I bought a league pass for the playoffs. Too many games to watch.

[T Strife]

The Memphis v San Antonio series has been the best so far.

Seeing Memphis absolutely slaughter SA in the second half of game 4 was pretty awesome, and makes me feel a little better about Orlando's present situation.

And LA tied at 2-2 with the Hornets? This playoff series is just weird.

[Super Sleuth]

It has been glorious. I love a good underdog story.

Like the regular season, Memphis' work in the paint has been first rate. Gasol and Randolph's physicality and ability to work the ball into the hoop through heavy traffic is a massive plus in the playoffs. They could push fairly deep into them if all things go well.

[Natrak]

God I'd love to see San Antonio booted out in the first round.

[Super Sleuth]

Add a Hornets victory to that and I would be considerably happy.

[Azzaman]

Looks like onehd got their sh*t sorted and are showing the bulls v pacers today, win!

[T Strife]

That was pretty sweet, and a lot more intense than the final score let on. Rose didn't have a particularly good early run, tallied up four fouls way too early, and was then put back on to prove that he could at least perform under pressure and... erm... reject dunks by bigger players.

First time Chicago have looked like Chicago so far.

[dimorphic]

3-2 series lead to the lakers. Three peat baby!

[Azzaman]

That was pretty sweet, and a lot more intense than the final score let on. Rose didn't have a particularly good early run, tallied up four fouls way too early, and was then put back on to prove that he could at least perform under pressure and... erm... reject dunks by bigger players.

First time Chicago have looked like Chicago so far.

Boozer and all?

[T Strife]

I don't think I've ever seen Boozer have an exceptional game, so yes :p

Dammit at SA's overtime win. Would be a sadistic delight to see them booted from round 1.

[NiB]

Thunder through and I'm liking the thought of playing Spurs/Grizz

Perk and Ibaka can handle Z-bo and Gasol

[T Strife]

Orlando booted by #*$^ing Atlanta?

I may just have to go cry into a pillow :(

[T Strife]

In other news, New Zealand totally won the NBL. Does anybody remotely care?

No?

Very good.

(Heh - Australia can't even win its own league.)

[Azzaman]

Oh snap, Grizzlies! Can't see them getting past OKC, but then again, I couldn't see them getting past the spurs either...

[Natrak]

Should be a great series, that.

[Azzaman]

the Bulls... lost? Man, this playoff's have been weird.

[T Strife]

the Bulls... lost? Man, this playoff's have been weird.

Add LA to that. The NBA is getting turned on its head!

[Azzaman]

OneHD can suck my d*ck, that's twice now that they've advertised the second game of a double header, then shown the first instead. Thanks, I much prefer watching the final 3 minutes of a game instead of the whole thing...

[T Strife]

Oh, snap, LA!

[Azzaman]

Yeah, they didn't even look in the game by the end. Not looking good at this point.

[Natrak]

Don't worry, the Mavs will find some way to **** it up.

[topaz]

Ugh, please don't let it be another Mavs/Heat final...

[Azzaman]

Whats the game on OneHD this morning? Just had a look at nba.com and there's no games today :S

[T Strife]

Ugh, please don't let it be another Mavs/Heat final...

If they pull their stuff together, I can't see Miami getting past Chicago so easily. There's an imbalance with the Celtics that's getting exploited (to say nothing of how much more easily older players injure) - Miami have been running them ragged, and have a power advantage inside. Rose and, particularly, Noah may make this more difficult for them.

Actually, so would Shaq if he's fit to go. The man's getting old, but he's still probably stronger than the rest of the Boston squad rolled together. Le Bron's power may do him well if fouled by Allen, but I'd be much more surprised to see him get an and one from O'Neal.

... would somebody please remind me how I've come to hate Miami so? I feel like I've just jumped on the bandwagon without thinking because they may be the ugliest team in the league...

[NiB]

Ugh, please don't let it be another Mavs/Heat final...

Are you kidding, Imagine the mavs beating the LeBron & the pips

That would be awesome, and then Mark Cuban would go on a charlie sheen type spree paying out on David Stern

[T Strife]

3-0 now. It's going to take a lot from LA to pull this one back.

Rose took 44 points as the Bulls went up 2-1, too. Accounts seemed to state that they're starting to look like the team they should be again, and all of a sudden it's easier to see then taking the Eastern Conference once more.

[Starscream]

3-0 now. It's going to take a lot from LA to pull this one back.

Rose took 44 points as the Bulls went up 2-1, too. Accounts seemed to state that they're starting to look like the team they should be again, and all of a sudden it's easier to see then taking the Eastern Conference once more.

Hell yeah.

Want to see either Mavs, Griz or Thunder vs Bulls final series.

[T Strife]

I've asked around a bit, and apparently no NBA team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit at this stage in the playoffs. A couple of cases of it getting pushed to game 7, but no team has ever pushed it all the way. Paints a bleak picture for LA, although if the team does find it in itself to scrape out of this then, somehow, the smug emperors will have been responsible for a historic underdog moment.

Boy am I gonna be pissed if that happens...

[jawsy]

No team has ever come back from 3-0 down. I can't see them pushing it any further than game 6 in a very hostile Dallas.

Chicago have looked poor. Boozer is causing them all sorts of problems just by being on the court. At this stage Miami and Boston would both steamroll them, although I expect Miami to be the team given the chance to do that. I mean, before today they'd lost a total of four games over a period of almost two months. Asking a team to beat them four times in a fortnight would seem to be a stretch. Unless, you know, Spoelstra insists on playing Bibby and Z.

Grizzlies look good! By which I mean Tony Allen looks good!

[Azzaman]

Azzaman thinks to himself "I'm so glad I haven't spoiled the bball scores today as I'll be watching the games tonight. I think I'll look at nba.com to see if League pass has dropped in price now we're in round2."
opens nba.com
Azzaman"****** ****** ****** ******"


(I honestly have nfi what I was thinking)

[T Strife]

You were thinking that you wanted a closeup of Rondo's elbow?

[Super Sleuth]

So the Thunder half court offense jitters are back....

That series could well be over in 5.

[Starscream]

The Mavs have swept the Lakers. See ya Kobe!

And Atlanta have the series 2-2 against the Bulls.

[Azzaman]

What the ****** is happening with the 2011 playoffs???

[T Strife]

I don't know, but I'm enjoying it. LA got destroyed in that last game, too.

Bulls tied, though? What the hell, Rose? Rondo got the Celtics over the line in the last game, and he did it with a dislocated elbow!

[Azzaman]

I too am very much enjoying it :D It's just all been turned on it's head! Can't believe how Rondo came back on. It's all so crazy!

[Natrak]

I dare not hope for a Mavericks championship, but gotta think they've got a real chance of making the Finals. Still, it'd be great to see Dirk, Jet and Kidd get some jewelry.

[topaz]

If the Thunder doesn't win it (and tbh I don't think it's their time yet), I'm rooting for the Mavs. Any team but the Heat really.

[Azzaman]

Miami went up 3-1, suck it topaz :P

[nonch]

To all you guys cheering about the underdogs continually winning, you do realise that it's all just paving the way for Miami to win, don't you...?

Since Spurs got knocked out my order of preference would be Thunder, Grizlies, Mavs, Bulls, but honestly can't see any of them beating Heat:(

[Natrak]

I don't actually care if Miami wins, I like LeBron, Wade and Bosh and think it's pretty awesome that they're on a team together. I don't think you can count out Chi-city anyway.

[jawsy]

I would be counting out Chicago based on what we've seen so far.

That game today was an instant classic. I got back from teaching class early enough to watch the last minute and OT periods. Holy shit.

[topaz]

Miami went up 3-1, suck it topaz :P

Boooo-urns!!

[NiB]

That Thunder/Grizz game was just unbelievable, even better than the Chi-Bos one a couple of seasons ago (Where ray Allen went nuts with 50+pts)

Durant hit some absolute daggers in the 3rd OT, but Westbrook is killing us with his play at the point

[jawsy]

I wouldn't say Westbrook's play is 'killing' you.

[Ad-Rock]

Heat took game 5 97-87. Celtics were leading until the last few minutes.

[NiB]

I wouldn't say Westbrook's play is 'killing' you.

it's making games a lot less comfortable and he can't get Durant involved in the 4th


As for the Celticcs, they had games 4-5 but hopeless 4th quarter execution let them down. A healthy Rondo was probably the difference in that series going to 7

[T Strife]

As for the Celticcs, they had games 4-5 but hopeless 4th quarter execution let them down. A healthy Rondo was probably the difference in that series going to 7

I'd have liked to see how that series would have turned out had Boston not been so physically beaten up. Shaq could have had a big influence, if healthy, through the sheer mass of his presence alone and... well... dislocating Rondo's elbow was probably the biggest contribution that Wade made during the series >_<

(Was it Wade? I've already forgotten.)

[jawsy]

it's making games a lot less comfortable and he can't get Durant involved in the 4th

Brooks and Durant shoulder as much of that blame.

[NiB]

Game 7....shit

[Ad-Rock]

Bulls v HEAT starts soon. Should be a cracker. I think Bulls will go 1 up, as long as Rose gets good support.

[Natrak]

Hope the series delivers.

[Ad-Rock]

Chicago wins by 21 pts.

[NiB]

Miami looked awful, and everyone needs to check out that Gibson dunk on you tube, Wade got POSTERIZED !

[Azzaman]

I thought his put back in the dying mins was way more impressive personally.

Miami showing how shallow it's rotation is and Chicago showing how deep it's bench is.
I don't see how the Heat overcome this.

[topaz]

Chicago off to a great start, I'm liking this. :D

And WOW @ the two Gibson dunks!!

[Ad-Rock]

Mavs up 1-0. Nowitsky got 48 pts including 24/24 free throws, which is some sort of record.

[Natrak]

More astounded that Dirk got 24 free throws than that he made 24 without missing.

If you're a Clippers fan (haha) how much do you hate the Baron Davis trade right now? At least it's a pretty weak draft.

[nonch]

Watched a bit of it during my lunch break today - Nowitski was unstoppable. They fouled him at every opportunity because he was hitting everything, and as a result they were in penalty very early. He also knows how to draw a foul.

12/15fg and 24/24ft = one of the great playoff performances I've seen.

[Natrak]

The moment the Mavericks crumble all of the praise for Dirk will turn into doubt and vitriol. Guess that's how it is, though, you're great when you're winning, bad when you're losing.

[nonch]

Maybe for the Mavs, but not for Dirk himself I don't think. They do rely on him a hell of a lot.

[NiB]

Dirk won't be able to do that for 4 games, hopefully Westbrook passes more, Durant dropped 40 while being shut out at the start of the game. We'll need to win game 2 to have any hope of advancing

[Ad-Rock]

Heat Bulls game 2 was fairly tight. 73-73 when Asik had to go off for stitches; James just ran riot after that. Final score 85-75

[NiB]

Hopefully Dirk doesn't have another explosion and we can steal game 2,

also buying some stuff from 9jersey.com, anyone else ever used em ?

[NiB]

Mission accomplished

Everyone needs to check out the Durant tomahawk on Haywood...shit was crazy

[Natrak]

Didn't know he had that in him.

[NiB]

He's a string bean...but he's got hops

[nonch]

Think he meant the aggression. But yeah, good to see. Durant's prolly my favourite non Spurs player.

[Azzaman]

Wow, heat looked dominant yesterday. Unless the bulls get their sh*t together they're gonna get bounced from the finals. The bulls looked very demoralized and rose is looking non existent. Very strange...

[NiB]

***K

Massive choke by the Thunder, we're pretty much ***ked now :(

[[m]averick]

The 'MVP' really dominated yesterday

8-25 and 7 TO's.

Go Rose!

[Azzaman]

He looks really, *really* uncomfortable with Lebron guarding him.

[Dukotoja]

just a simple question, how are you guys watching this? i never see it on one anymore. am i just not looking hard enough/getting unlucky with days that i check?

When are the games played? should i download them?

[Natrak]

Shelled out for league pass at the start of the playoffs, myself.

[nonch]

Miami/Chicago seems to be on One at the moment, with OKC/Dallas on Foxtel. Games start around 11am, give or take.

[[m]averick]

West: ESPN
East: One

Starts at 11am

[dimorphic]

**** I hope Chicago beat Miami.

[jawsy]

I've had league pass all season and have managed to watch so many games over the last six months that I see three-step-travels-not-called whenever I close my eyes.

[[m]averick]

The MVP steps up in the final two minutes.

[NiB]

Well, it seems a fitting end for the best playoffs in a long long time (possibly ever)

An 06 grudge match, nobody can stop Dirk but Miami have 2 of the best 5 players in the league.

Hope it goes to 7

[Starscream]

Chicago gave up a 13 point lead. And Rose choked on his last free throw. That's old news already.

Go Dallas!

[Ad-Rock]

Heat will struggle to contain the Mavs big men. But any team with Bosh, James and Wade will be formidable even on an off day.

[Azzaman]

Watching that game with 4 Bulls supporters was a treat. It was a very tense finish, I haven't watched any Mavs games since the sweep of LA. So I'm struggling to make a call on who I think will win it, I'm hoping Miami but I think the Mavs are a much more complete team if that makes any sense.

I think it should be a great emotionally charged series and whoever wins it definately deserves it.

[NiB]

I hope with a huge lead and the victory assured Mark Cuban just goes off at Stern,Wade Bennet Salvatore and everyone else he's ever had a grudge against.

[Azzaman]

gm1 one tomorrow morn. so excited :D

[NiB]

gm1 one tomorrow morn. so excited :D

Not seeing it in the TV guide , what time's it on ?

[Azzaman]

10:30 according to game time app. I bought league pass last night, they've dropped it at some point to $30. Probably for the finals series.

[Super Sleuth]

It was $90 at the start of the playoffs. So yeah.

[NiB]

Currenetly ONEHD showing MLB, don't think we'll be seeing any NBA finals

[[m]averick]

ESPN.

Currently not watching.

U mad?

[Natrak]

Currenetly ONEHD showing MLB, don't think we'll be seeing any NBA finals

In previous years games have been delayed by a day, IIRC.

[[m]averick]

Just caught the last quarter.

LeWade smoked it.
Heat would be very happy with Dirk getting 10 fgs and 10 ft.
Jason Terry should be getting a tattoo removalist booked very soon.

[NiB]

LeBron is on a mission, sad to say that Dallas may get swept unless Terry and Barea play outtta their skin for the whole series

[nonch]

Don't say I didn't warn you all!

Really though, I always thought Miami was the side to beat, regardless of who they came up against.

Just can't bring myself around to liking them though.

[Starscream]

In previous years games have been delayed by a day, IIRC.
Yeah. 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Thursday on ONEHD.

[Azzaman]

So it'll be a condensed game as well then. Well that $30 was well spent IMO.

[NiB]

Shaq has retired for good, a sad day in the NBA

[Azzaman]

It's been about 7 months coming though. Did anyone think he'd make it back after the way his body gave up on him this season?

[Natrak]

Shaq has retired for good, a sad day in the NBA

Should have happened a few years earlier, really.

[NiB]

Should have happened a few years earlier, really.

If he gave a crap after Miami an got in shape he still could've been a great 3rd banana guy on contenders for the last 4 years.

[nonch]

I'm old enough to remember Shaq's rookie year.

At the time he said he was only going to play five years max and retire a rich young man...

[[m]averick]

Unbelievable!

Dirk with the dagger!

[Emilbus]

Damn assessments I totally forgot to watch the game.

Also Shaq+Hardaway ftw! Still pisses they got swept by the Rockets when they got pass the Bulls that year.

[Natrak]

Holy shit, what!? I closed the window as soon as the Heat got up by 15, can't believe the Mavs won.

[[m]averick]

Hahaha.

Classic Natrak.

Dirk scored the last 9 points. Mavs by two.

Can't believe you shut down LP after the clutch Mavs performances against OKC.

[Starscream]

averick;1288547']Hahaha.

Classic Natrak.

Dirk scored the last 9 points. Mavs by two.

Can't believe you shut down LP after the clutch Mavs performances against OKC.

Saw the second half while having lunch at the pub. What a game from Dirk and the Mavs.

[NiB]

Marion said it best, "it's a best of 5 series now and we got 3 games at home"

[Natrak]

It's rare for all three straight home games to be won by the home team.

[NiB]

In all NBA finals series with the 2-3-2 format the team that has won g3 has gone on to win the championship

[Azzaman]

Can't believe the heat gave that one away. There was a possession there that ended with Lebron taking a contested 3pt shot at the end of the clock twice, wtf? that should not be happening...

[Azzaman]

Had it in my head that game 3 was on today. Now I'm totally disappointed :(

[Emilbus]

Had it in my head that game 3 was on today. Now I'm totally disappointed :(

Ditto..whats up with the long break. I don't think Mavs is complaining though.

[Ad-Rock]

Heat regain home court advantage...

[Azzaman]

In all NBA finals series with the 2-3-2 format the team that has won g3 has gone on to win the championship

I like those odds!

[NiB]

Ahh shit...Dallas' useless bench cost em that game

[[m]averick]

Ahh shit...Dallas' useless bench cost em that game


Lol.

Imagine if people were talking about the lack of productivity coming from the Dallas bench compared to the Miami bench a month ago.

[NiB]

Just like the Melbourne/St Kilda in the AFL, 1 week your teams no good then all of a sudden a good game or 2 and the blowtorch shifts

[[m]averick]

Yeah, but a few from Dallas have been exposed.

Peja Stojakovic has been useless
Heat defence is too quick for JJ Berea
JET has been blanketed by Lebron
Kidd hasn't been shooting

Means there's too much left for the Matrix and Dirk to do.

The problem for Dallas is Heat are 2-1 up and James has only just done his job so far. Surely he will explode with a 35 point game soon.

[Azzaman]

can't believe he asked this question (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Video-LeBron-James-does-not-care-for-your-quest?urn=nba-wp4419#remaining-content). Love the response too.

[Starscream]

2 all.

Use that home court advantage Dallas!

[nonch]

Mavs still alive!

Terrible time for Dirk to get crook though!

Still, it led to the supporting cast stepping up their act, so let's hope they can continue to do so from here.

[nonch]

can't believe he asked this question (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Video-LeBron-James-does-not-care-for-your-quest?urn=nba-wp4419#remaining-content). Love the response too.

And yeah, that was pretty ****ing stupid.

Just a hack trying to get himself some national coverage not realising how stupid it was going to make him look.

[nonch]

Having said that it would have a bit more relevance if he asked the same question again after today's game.

[[m]averick]

What was the question for those of us capped?

[nonch]

Something along the lines of "Lebron, the fourth quarter is when the superstars come out to play. You seem to shy away from it. What's the deal?"

To which Lebron basically said "Maybe you should try watching the game rather than just looking at the box score. Think about that and ask me a better question next time."

[Azzaman]

this (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/LeBron-James-and-the-limitations-of-his-position;_ylt=AsRKGTvjI52mFH9I.MQ1aJ7ZrYZ4?urn=nba-wp4586#comments) article has me dreaming about the heat grabbing Phil Jackson as coach next year. Hmmmmm triangle...

[[m]averick]

Something along the lines of "Lebron, the fourth quarter is when the superstars come out to play. You seem to shy away from it. What's the deal?"

To which Lebron basically said "Maybe you should try watching the game rather than just looking at the box score. Think about that and ask me a better question next time."


Lololol.

No points in 4th quarter for Lebrone. 8 for the game. Dude seems to be on point with his questions.

[NiB]

2 things happen now

Either the Mavs ride Dirk and win it or LeBron morphs into eff you mode and shreds Dallas like he did the celtics/bulls

Heat can't win without it and Dallas can't win if Dirk isn't the best player on the court

[[m]averick]

Did you even watch today's game?

Dirk was good, but JJ and JET were the gamewinners.

[Azzaman]

Hey Miami: CLOSE OUT ON THE THREE-BALL!


AAAARRRRRGGGGHHHH!

[Natrak]

It's very early in the game, but LeBron is looking stone cold and focused.

[nintendo]

God damn ONEhd not playing this. Should have thought ahead and gone to a pub.

Saw last game in a pub in Byron Bay surrounded by hippies.

[Emilbus]

Dirk getting alot of help! Come on Dallas close it out.

[Ad-Rock]

**** yeah!

[Super Sleuth]

Terry.

[Natrak]

Goddamn, I can't believe it after the last five years. So ****ing pleased to see the Mavericks finally do it. And I know they're different teams now, but goddamn does it feel good to see them do it against the Heat after what happened in 06. I haven't really been capable of enjoying the Mavs' successes so much since that finals loss and the first round upset the next year. You might've noticed how I was constantly expecting things to go south, being a fan of the Mavericks over the last fives years has been tough, I can't imagine how it must have been for guys like Dirk, Jet, Cuban and Kidd (even if he wasn't there for 06 and 07).

Cuban gets a lot of hate, but I've always liked him, I guess he's one of those kind of guys. If he were your team's owner you'd probably love him, otherwise I guess you hate him. But goddamnit if he hasn't done a shitload for the Mavericks as a franchise and it's great to see his plan to turn the Mavericks into a town and team where players actually wanted to play and his willingness to spend (sometimes to his detriment) finally payoff.

Feel bad for doubting the team so consistently, particularly over the last season, but it feels great to see them win anyway.

[[m]averick]

Great to see the passion from the Mavs. Havent been watching NBA very long, but its pretty obvious they have copped a lot of heat (no pun intended) over the years.

Good to see a champion team demolish a cocky, arrogant, overrated team of champions (still love Wade, at least he gave a **** unlike that shitheap LBJ).

Best thing is, the best is yet to come! Great off-season shaping up with the Miami fall-out.

[HD Boy]

Got on the Mavs to win it all back when they were paying 18 to 1. $15 well spent.

[dimorphic]

I loved seeing James yet again come up short. I hope he never wins a championship now. Ever since 'the decision' I've hated the guy.

[nonch]

Very happy to have been wrong about Dallas - I thought Miami would win, but great to see Lebron and co suffer!

[[m]averick]

I loved seeing James yet again come up short. I hope he never wins a championship now. Ever since 'the decision' I've hated the guy.


I want to see him win one, but not this year and not the way he played.

I want to see him win one as The Man, having worked hard to overcome deficiencies and demons. Not win one having left Cleveland for a Super Team, driving and dishing to Juwan Howard in the 4th quarter ffs. Take the lead. Stop deferring to Dwade.

Jordan was 28 when he got his first ring.

[Azzaman]

Disappointing finish to a great finals series. However, the Heat went a lot further then I thought would be possible while they are so top heavy with talent. Given a few years and some smart personnel changes and they will have a much deeper rotation. Really need to get a good (dominant if available/possible) centre, drop Bibby, Dampier, Howard and (dare I say it) big-Z and get another good point guard that can play off the ball to back up Chalmers. Then fill out the roster with players that can knock down open shots.

Props to Dallas they were definitely the better team down the stretch. I couldn't believe how amazing Kidd's defence was at 38. That said the only Dallas games outside of this series that I watched all year was the opening round Dal-Por series, so I've probably missed something that's been there all year.

Miami have a long way to go before they are a dominant force, Chicago will be looking to make some moves and strengthen up. Howard's on the move so could be interesting where he ends up (sorry magic fans, you know it's going to happen!). There's plenty of other teams that I wouldn't count out either, if next season happens it's onna be another fun ride.

[Natrak]

averick;1289813']
Best thing is, the best is yet to come! Great off-season shaping up with the Miami fall-out.

Yup, can't wait for that lockout...

[nonch]

Howard's on the move so could be interesting where he ends up (sorry magic fans, you know it's going to happen!).

Please go to Spurs!!!!!!

[Natrak]

**** the Spurs.

[Azzaman]

To replace Timmy-D? Do they have the cap space?

[topaz]

Late post, but I watched game 6 live while on holidays in our hotel room in Osaka. Such an exciting game!! I was swearing too much according to my gf lol. Very happy for Dirk and the way he finished the game after hitting one shot the entire first half. It pretty much destroyed the notion that he's not clutch in the 4th. Everyone on the Mavs deserved this win, and Rick Carlise too, after being real unlucky with Detroit & Indiana. Happy that Dirk, JT & Kidd are finally getting their rings.

Overall it was a great playoffs with memorable moments, from Gary Neal hitting the three, Z-Bo going crazy, Bulls upsetting the Heat in game 1, Durant having some incredible performances, LeBron shying away during the big moments (again), and Dirk showing the world that he has what it takes to win.

[nonch]

To replace Timmy-D? Do they have the cap space?

Duncan is contracted for next season - would think that will be his last.

As for cap space - I don't know how it works with the hard cap and soft cap, but this year Spurs' payrole was just under 70mil.

Teams like Lakers, Dallas and Orlando were all around 90mil.

Anyway, going on past experience Spurs will only need to spend one season outside playoffs, draw the number one pick and land another franchise player, so I'm not too worried:D

[nonch]

**** the Spurs.

Just be happy the Mavs managed to avoid them this year, huh?

[Natrak]

Yeah, they looked real threatening in that first round exit!

[nonch]

Not saying they did, just making a point that Mavs would have been very relieved they didn't have to play them.

I've got nothing against Mavs though, and I'm glad they finally won one.

[NiB]

Lots of talk that Tony Parker might get traded, I think the spurs are ready for a full rebuild. The Duncan/Ginobli/Parker era was a great success. But like the lakers and magic, big changes are gonna have to be made to compete. Thankfully the spurs don't have an arenas type contract on the books

[nonch]

With Gary Neal and George Hill in the side I would be okay with letting Parker go for the right kind of deal.

Don't know if a full rebuild is needed, but a big guy to replace Duncan is a must.

Considering how conservative the Spurs have been over the past 20 years, I would be surprised to see anything major happen.

[nonch]

So it looks like Parker will be staying.

Spurs have traded George Hill to Indiana for small forward Kawhi Leonard, who went 15th, but was expected to be a lottery pick.

Sounds as if it is a good trade for Spurs, but we still need a big man!

[nonch]

Ok so the proposed Spurs trade is Hill to Indiana for picks 15 and 42.

Pacers just picked Davis Bertans with 42 - an 18yo 6'10" three point shooter from Latvia - maybe the next Dirk?:D

[NiB]

lollin hard at all the talk that Melbourne has produced 2 #1 NBA draft picks in the last 5 odd years cause of Kyrie Irving

[nonch]

What are you talking about - he spent the two most formative years of his life here!

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!

[NiB]

Cleveland will beat any enthusiasm outta him...we don't want damaged goods in the green and gold

[Azzaman]

Apparently he's already declared he wants to play for USA and not aus. He has the choice as he holds dual citizenship.

[nonch]

Well, given the choice it's a no brainer, but the Boomers will be waiting in the wings if he doesn't make Team USA.

[[m]averick]

Given the choice, the Boomers is the obvious choice in this point guard era.

He's got no chance of getting game time at the point anytime soon with Williams, Westbrook, Paul, Rondo, Rose all vying for a start.

[nonch]

Yeah that's true.

[Azzaman]

When representing your country I guess it's not all about playing time. Kid considers himself American, can't really blame him though technically he's Aussie.

[Emilbus]

Damn! Another freakin lock out.

[jawsy]

Another? We haven't had one in 12 years and it's only the fourth work stoppage ever for the NBA.

[Emilbus]

Should have made myself clear...another American sport lockout within the same year.

[Emilbus]

Yao retires (http://www.nba.com/2011/news/07/08/yao-ming-retires/index.html)

[Azzaman]

Really missing the nba, can't wait for even nbl to start...

[Emilbus]

NQQu-JWzBug

[SWiSH]

Some crazy shit going down in the NBA today. Sort of relieved Stern nixed the CP3 trade. I don't think it's the right move for LA, and gives them a chance to re-group and continue to pursue D12.

[Azzaman]

They could have theoretically gotten both.

[SWiSH]

They could have, would have been near impossible though. Looks like they'll now miss out on both :(

[dimorphic]

Firstly, I am kinda glad the CP3 deal didn't go ahead because I don't think trading Gasol without bringing in another PF is a good idea.

However, the fact that the NBA blocked the deal is ridiculous. They OWN the Hornets and I fully believe David Stern thought to himself that if they lose CP3 they won't have a chance at selling the franchise.

They called it a basketball decision however the trade was the best thing for NO considering CP3 said he doesn't want to be there and they'd have gotten a very good player in Gasol as well as the players from Houston.

Now we're in the position of CP3 considering legal action and essentially holding out from the Hornets and Gasol/Odom knowing that LA will trade them, so they'd have to be thinking why am I giving my all for a team that doesn't want me.

First the laughable lockout that David Stern so poorly presided over and now this. He has to be the worst Commissioner in American sport.

[Azzaman]

On a small side note one hd can go f--k themselves. Now the cheapest way for me to watch NBA is $200 for league pass...

[NiB]

I look forward to the Lakers missing the playoffs. Trading Odom was the dumbest thing they could have done. And they got nothing for him.

[buckstwits]

On a small side note one hd can go f--k themselves. Now the cheapest way for me to watch NBA is $200 for league pass...

If League Pass is anything like the NFL one it's probably worth it.

[SWiSH]

I can confirm NBA League Pass is worth it. Would be nice to have OneHD as a fallback though - why are they determined to destroy Basketball in Australia? :(

[Azzaman]

I know for a fact it's worth it. But at this point the missus won't let me part with $200. So it isn't happening. Looks like after the 9th (when the league pass free trial finishes) I won't be watching nba :(

[dimorphic]

The league pass has a free trial till Jan 9th. I've been using it and it's sweet!

[Azzaman]

Is there an echo in here? I have to admit the tight schedule is awesome considering the trial is only until the 9th, at least 1 or 2 games everyday that I want to watch.

[[m]averick]

League Pass is available for $7 if you know where you're looking ;)

[Super Sleuth]

I know where I'm looking, it just isn't the right place.

[Azzaman]

I love you Mav :D

[[m]averick]

How is it Azza?

I've heard conflicting reports as to how well it works, plus I heard he's not taking any new people on.

I'm probably gonna buy it from him after the 9th.

[NiB]

That Mavs Thunder game was incredible

[Super Sleuth]

Just finished watching it. Outstanding.

[Azzaman]

averick;1302565']How is it Azza?

I've heard conflicting reports as to how well it works, plus I heard he's not taking any new people on.

I'm probably gonna buy it from him after the 9th.

if thats the case I dont love you as much. I just googled it and did about 10 mins of reading, looks like it works and for $7 it's not too much of a risk if it turns out it's crap. I'm gonna try my luck now

[NiB]

And then we get CP3 v Rose today in LA...god I've missed the NBA

[Azzaman]

fyi that $7 lpb thingo has closed it's applications, got a better luck next year email back :(

[VanAce]

AbyOevVAYQI

Most likely the dunk of the year. Man, Blake Griffin is a great player to watch.

[NiB]

Better than LeBron jumping over John Lucas

[T Strife]

*sits and twiddles thumbs and wonders why nobody's been taking about NYK and Lin*

G0oaqWMLdwk

Although, a loss to the Hornets? That streak was never going to last forever, but... really?

[Azzaman]

I have been league pass-less this month after the free trial ended so I haven't really been keeping up to date on Lin-sanity. I am shocked that he's come out of nowhere though, how does someone like this get so buried in rotations for so long that he's barely heard of? Crazy

[Lazlow]

Because he's Asian.

And apparently only good 5-on-5

[NiB]

He just landed in the exact right place at the exact right time. He'll fade out soon enough. He can't go left with his first step and melo and amare are horrible to play with, the ball stops moving when they get their hands on it

[Azzaman]

Lin had a bad game against Miami. Is it over now or does everyone just hate the heat that little bit more?

Just noticed league pass is now $170 usd (so around $160 for us I think), I have $120 saved up, so close :D

[Big Scib Man]

*sits and twiddles thumbs and wonders why nobody's been taking about NYK and Lin*

zExrVyTX_aw

[Emilbus]

Crapfest..you all know what I'm talking about.

[adam_91vn]

The dunk conest is definately getting shitter every year.

[nintendo]

Didn't watch it this year, might later on, but after Griffin winning last year the whole thing is total bs.

All star game was alright though, got real close near the end. IMO Lebron chocked again and passed instead of going for the 3 which could have evened it.

[Azzaman]

He single handedly pulls them out of a 10pt hole and he's a choker?

[Azzaman]

Poor Ricky :( twolves were on my list of games to watch almost exclusively because of him. K love is great but rubio was so flashy and great to watch, such a shame.

[Azzaman]

Some of the trades that just happened are insane, mcgee for nene? blew my mind.
Also saw it coming still kinda shocking though; oden has been released poor guy, hopefully he finds some health and a new home. Hoping both in Miami ;)

[Lazlow]

m-l38yYPeQc

[Azzaman]

What a difference a day makes. Thinking Miami may sweep Knicks now. We'll have to see how much of a difference a healthy chandler makes.

My condolences to any chicago fans, I still think they'll knock off the 76ers but I can't see them getting much further.

What a day!

[Starscream]

http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/2012/images/04/27/Bracket-0427.jpg

My picks to make the NBA Finals:

From the West:
Lakers, Thunder or Spurs

From the East:
Celtics, Heat

[Azzaman]

Well the Celtics have dug themselves in a hole. Gonna be all uphill for them from here.
Knicks have also made it tough, thanks Amare!

The bulls losing Rose I think lets Miami walk into the eastern conference win, still not sure about the west though, could easily be lakers, thunder or spurs. But my money's on the spurs making it through.

Unfortunately I don't know if the heat can pull it off with those teams in the west, but they've flipped the switch big-time in the last two games, so maybe i need a little more faith ;)

[Natrak]

Goddamn fire extinguisher was looking at him the wrong way.

[Starscream]

Just a shame that Dallas and OKC are in the opening round. Hard for Dallas to come back from two game losses.

[Natrak]

Not necessarily, they just need to take care of business at home and go from there. Disappointed that they didn't steal home court advantage, though. At least both matches have been great to watch for the most part.

[Starscream]

Not necessarily, they just need to take care of business at home and go from there. Disappointed that they didn't steal home court advantage, though. At least both matches have been great to watch for the most part.
The DAL v OKC games have been very close.

I read the playoff previews on ESPN website as to how the teams may go:

ESPN Western Conference Playoffs Preview 2012 (http://espn.go.com/nba/playoffs/2012/story/_/page/West-120427/nba-playoffs-western-conference-preview)

ESPN Eastern Conference Playoffs Preview 2012 (http://espn.go.com/nba/playoffs/2012/story/_/page/East-120427/nba-playoffs-eastern-conference-preview)

Interesting insight on the Grizzlies & Clippers match up

[Lazlow]

http://i.imgur.com/AVD9p.jpg

[HD Boy]

Just purchased the stream package on nba.tv, it's pretty much perfect. This will be done every year from now on.

[Natrak]

****.

[Azzaman]

Nyk or dal? Only question now is if Miami or okc will sweep.

Looking for the bulls to bounce back today, it may be tough on the road but I don't want to count them out till I see them collapse again or rally it together and pull out the W.

I'm also told I should be watching some spurs games as they are highly entertaining. I'm just struggling to find the motivation to watch that series as they are prob my two least favorite teams in the league....

[Starscream]

And like that, Dallas were swept.

[Azzaman]

Ladies and Gentlemen, James Harden!

[Super Sleuth]

There's always going to be a lane open when you've got Durant and Westbrook standing at each corner.

[Azzaman]

RBA-lH2a6E8

Gentleman's sweep, it's not going to 6.

[Starscream]

Injured Rose and Noah (only for Game 4) really makes a difference for the 76ers.