Top NBA Executives of the Year (2011-12)

 1. Neil Olshey- Los Angeles Clippers (WINNER)

– The Clippers are not only relevant, they are downright good and this is because of the incredible job by GM Neil Olshey. Olshey truly deserves the award, as he has been by far the top executive of the 2011-12 season. The Chris Paul trade has turned out beautifully and even though they may have given up a lot, they now have one of the eight best players in the world on their team. Paul has made a massive difference on this team and has made every Clippers player better, just by being there. If Paul were to leave after the 2012-13 season, Olshey’s great season would be forgotten, but considering how good the Clippers look, this seems doubtful. It is safe to assume that Paul will resign with the team long-term, as they look to be contenders now and for many years to come. Besides the Paul move, Olshey has done a wonderful job bringing the depth back that the team lost in the aforementioned Paul trade. Signing Caron Butler has been a solid move as he has brought scoring and defense to the team on the perimeter and although he is not the player he once was, he has had a fine year. The Kenyon Martin pickup was a great move, as he has brought his signature defense and intensity off their bench. Olshey was also able to steal talented shooting guard Nick Young for only Brian Cook and a second round pick. Young has done well and has brought extra scoring off the bench. Most thought that the team spent far too much money, resigning center Deandre Jordan, however he has improved immensely this season and is now one of the best defensive big men in the NBA. Lastly, the Chauncey Billups post-amnesty signing looked great until he was injured, as he brought leadership and experience to a team that truly needed it. So overall, Olshey has had an absolutely stellar season, and the fact that he has been able to succeed under the Clippers’ notoriously cheap owner Donald Sterling, makes this all the more amazing. Make room on the mantle Mr. Olshey, because the award is yours.

2. Glen Grunwald- New York Knicks

– Second place is pretty amazing work for an interim GM, which is what Grunwald’s official title has been, after he took over for Donnie Walsh. Walsh must also be given due credit as he created the foundation of the team, but Grunwald has done the little things to fill in the gaps. The team’s signing of center Tyson Chandler has been a franchise-altering move for them, as he has led the team out of the bottom in defensive efficiency and into the top half of the league. Many were skeptical at the amount of money Chandler was given, but he seems to be worth every penny and has been arguably the team’s most valuable player all season long. Chandler should win the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award and is far and away number one in the NBA in field goal percentage. Of course, the move that has grabbed every fan’s attention was the signing of point guard Jeremy Lin to be the team’s fourth point guard and glorified cheerleader, which turned out spectacularly. The successes of Lin are well known and documented, but it all started with a gamble, one that has paid off and has finally found the team it’s franchise point guard that they have long sought after. The Knicks also had a great draft, landing Georgia Tech guard, Iman Shumpert and Kentucky big man, Josh Harrellson, who have both made the rotation. Shumpert has the makings of an elite defender and has the athleticism and talent to become a great offensive player as well. Harrellson has added needed size off the bench and has showed a very solid all-around game. They may not have drafted a star, but the draft has improved their depth and talent on the roster. Also, the mid-season signing of JR Smith was a low-risk, high-reward move that has worked out beautifully. He did struggle some at first, but has come alive as of late and has been electrifying off the Knicks’ bench. Even the signing of Baron Davis has worked out, although not as much as the team hoped. He has been awful shooting the ball, but has distributed well and has been passable as the starting point guard, with Lin injured. The Knicks may not be a championship caliber team, but their talent level has risen immensely since last season, which means that management has done a great job, especially Glen Grunwald.

3. Chris Grant- Cleveland Cavaliers

– The Cavs needed to hit a home run with their number one pick, in an effort to start over after losing King James and they did just that. They took a chance on point guard Kyrie Irving, who because of injury missed most of his freshmen season, but he has been phenomenal all year and seems to be the franchise player the team sorely needed after losing Lebron. He is the sure-fire Rookie of the Year and looks to be an All-Star for many years to come. The Cavaliers then surprised many by drafting raw forward Tristan Thompson fourth overall. He may never be a star, but he is a great athlete and has the potential to be a dynamic defensive presence and has showed more on offense than expected. With these two extremely young building blocks, the team has started their rebuilding process with a bang. Grant and the Cavaliers also wisely stayed clear of free agency and will have a lot of cap space to work with over the next few years, to help them continue to rebuild the roster. It is safe to say that the future in Cleveland is much brighter then it was a year ago and this is because of the work of Chris Grant and his staff.

4. RC Buford- San Antonio Spurs

– Buford has been arguably the NBA’s top executive over the last decade and has once again had a great year. No one expected the Spurs to be championship contenders, but they have a chance to obtain the number one seed in the Western Conference for the second straight year. Buford has done a wonderful job of adding young talent around their big three, which has kept their championship window open for at least this season. The draft day trade that landed them forward Kawhi Leonard for guard George Hill has been a coup, as he looks to be one of the best players in the draft and a possible lockdown defender, with the potential to grow on offense. They were also somehow able to move Richard Jefferson and has monstrous contract for Stephen Jackson, who is a better fit on the roster and has one year and over 10 million dollars less on his contract. The low-key move to acquire guard Danny Green has paid massive dividends, as he is starting for the team and is playing great two-way basketball. Buford may not have made a big splash and dramatically changed the team, but he has made numerous solid moves that have truly improved the team. Another good year, from one of the all-time great executives in this league’s history.

5. Pat Riley- Miami Heat

– With the big three already in place, Riley had the difficult challenge to fill out the team around his stars and with little cap space to do so. The biggest move for the Heat was their cap friendly signing of do-everything forward Shane Battier. An outstanding defender, passer, shooter and teammate, Battier has brought sorely needed leadership to the team, as well as a winning mentality. The only problem with Battier has been that his offense has been less than spectacular and he has struggled with his shot all season long. Luckily for the Heat, his intangibles and character have more than made up for his offensive problems. The team drafted Norris Cole, a gifted scorer and speedster, who has filled the role of backup point guard and bench scorer quite well. He may struggle with turnovers and a somewhat questionable shot selection and has not built off of his fantastic first month in the NBA, but he is an asset to the team. Also, the mid-season pickup of Ronnie Turiaf has proved successful, as he has brought his usual energy and defense to the team, which will help come playoff time. Finally, the resigning of starting point guard Mario Chalmers has been an underrated move, as he has finally become worthy of being an NBA starter, as he has improved his already stellar defense and has become an elite shooter. He may not be a great distributor, but with Lebron and Wade, the team does need that out of their point guard in order to be successful. Riley may not have had as outstanding a year as last year, when he signed the big three, but he was successful none-the-less.

6. Larry Riley- Golden State Warriors

– It is safe to say that in the span of six months, the Warriors have changed the dynamic of the team and have finally attempted to improve the team’s culture and defense. This came in three separate, but successful moves. The team finally traded scoring savant, but defensive sieve, Monte Ellis and in turn received a top-five NBA center in Andrew Bogut, who is one of the best defensive players in the NBA. Bogut may be chronically injured and currently out, but if healthy, will improve the team dramatically on defense. They then traded Stephen Jackson (who was also in the Bogut deal) for Richard Jefferson, who despite being more expensive, is the superior player and a much better defender. The final trade was acquiring shooting guard Brandon Rush for Lou Amundson. Rush has had his best season to date and has been a solid two-way player for the team and their top player off the bench. Also, the Warriors’ lottery pick, Klay Thompson has taken off since entering the starting lineup for Monte Ellis and looks to be one of the best rookies in his draft class. Overall, a very solid year for Larry Riley and new owner, Joe Lacob.

7. Larry Bird- Indiana Pacers

– Larry Bird has once again added great pieces to the Pacers in an effort to turn them into contenders. The Pacers are currently the 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, so they seem to be well on their way to becoming one of the NBA’s best teams. The big move was the signing of veteran and former 2-time All-Star, forward David West. Although he has struggled to regain some of his past glory after coming off of a serious knee injury, West has provided veteran leadership and has been an effective starter, averaging over 12 points and 6 rebounds while playing just under 30 minutes a night. As detailed in the Spurs’ section, the team traded the draft rights of Kawhi Leonard to the Spurs for George Hill and it has worked out just as well for the Pacers as it has for the Spurs. Hill has provided great scoring off the bench and has been an excellent backup point guard, while playing his normal solid defense. The team’s midseason pickup of Leandro Barbosa has also worked out well as he has brought his own scoring talents off the bench and has improved the team’s depth considerably. Larry Bird has proven that he is one of the best executives in the NBA and has once again brought his team closer to contention.

8. Dell Demps- New Orleans Hornets

– The amount of work put in by Demps in the Chris Paul trade is commendable and despite the failed trade attempt with the Lakers, he got the best possible deal he could. Now that the team finally has a new owner in Saints’ owner Tom Benson, Demps should be able to actually get some work done and not have to appease David Stern anymore. The haul in the Chris Paul trade was quite substantial, a young budding superstar in Eric Gordon, a massive expiring contract in Chris Kaman, a talented, but raw forward named Al Farouq Aminu and Minnesota’s unprotected first round pick, currently expected to go in the top ten. Demps also pulled off three lesser, but successful moves in acquiring talented backup point guard Grevious Vasquez, high potential shooting guard Xavier Henry and rookie Gustavo Ayon from Mexico. All in all, Demps did a great job, considering the obstacles in his way. It will be interesting to see how Demps does under the new owner and if he will be given the freedom to rebuild the team on his own terms.

9.  Danny Ainge- Boston Celtics

– This is not as much about what Ainge has done, but what he didn’t do. After massive pressure from the media and fans, Ainge chose to stay the course and not trade away any of his Big Four. It is safe to say that this strategy has definitely paid off, as the Celtics are one of hottest teams heading into the playoffs. He has made a few very wise personnel moves this season, mainly trading Glen Davis for Brandon Bass. Bass, despite making two million a year less, has been the far superior player throughout the year. Also, the pickup of undrafted rookie Greg Stiemsma has panned out, as he has proven to be a very capable backup center and a handful on defense. Despite those quality moves, the Celtics’ season seems to be a classic example of the road not taken and the overall successes that can come from that choice.

10. Mitch Kupchak- Los Angeles Lakers

– Kupchak has made the list for one reason, his trade-deadline deal for Ramon Sessions, who has filled the long-needed role of starting point guard for the team. Ramon Sessions has added fire to the team since the trade, as he is an elite distributor and a solid scorer. This move alone has once again made the Lakers championship caliber and has finally given them a productive player other than Bryant, Gasol and Bynum. The other moves this season included, trading for Jordan Hill, signing Josh McRoberts and Troy Murphy and drafting Andrew Goudelock and Darius Morris, but none of these moves have exactly panned out. To be fair, Goudelock has showed promise as a scoring guard off the bench and has the talent to become an elite three-point shooter. Regardless, the Sessions move has greatly improved the teams’ chances of winning a title and sometimes one move is all that it takes for a GM to have a successful year.

Top Ten Storylines Heading Into The Playoffs

Top Storylines Heading into Playoffs

1. Race for the Top Seeds

East: For now, the Bulls have a big lead over the  Heat, but it is impossible to count out Miami. Both teams are phenomenal at home and therefore, earning the top seed will be of great importance for their inevitable Eastern Conference Finals match up. The Bulls main concern is getting Derrick Rose and Richard Hamilton completely healthy and they will not play them unless they are 100%, which may give the Heat a chance to catch up. The Heat have been awful on the road as of late, so expect the Bulls to take the top seed.

West: The Spurs and Thunder are neck and neck, however each team has a completely different view on home court advantage. The Spurs have been near the top of the conference for almost a decade and are used to the rigors of the playoffs and playing on the road. Their main concern is getting completely healthy and giving their aging players enough rest for the long road to the NBA finals. The Thunder are a young and inexperienced team, who are most comfortable at home, so earning the top seed is of much importance, as they struggle on the road. Expect the Thunder to go full speed until the end of the season and for the Spurs to ease off the gas.

2. Health

As was expected in such a compressed schedule, injuries have taken a toll on many teams and have affected numerous playoff contenders. It will be very interesting to see who will play and who will sit down the stretch and in the playoffs and how affective they can be if they decide to tough it out. Health could very well ruin championship dreams this season and eliminate great teams early.

3. Who Will Take the Final Seeds?

East: The first seven spots are all but set, as the Bulls, Heat, Pacers, Celtics, Hawks, Magic and 76ers have all but clinched a playoff birth, but the last seed will come down to the Knicks and Bucks. Both teams have played well as of late, but the Knicks have been without Stoudemire for weeks and will be without Jeremy Lin for the rest of the season and probably the playoffs. They have also been struggling with chemistry all year long and still do not seem cohesive.  However, they have been much improved since Mike Woodson took over for Mike D’Antoni last month, but they will have to hold off the surging Bucks. Milwaukee traded an injured Andrew Bogut for a healthy Monte Ellis and Ekpe Udoh at the trade deadline and in turn, improved their chances at a playoff run. Ellis and Brandon Jennings have created one of the most explosive backcourts in the league, but the team has struggled on defense and have little quality size. It will be a great race to the finish, but neither team has much of a chance to beat the Heat or Bulls in the playoffs.

West: Unlike with the East, the Western Conference is all over the place. Only five teams seem to be guaranteed a playoff birth; the Thunder, Spurs, Lakers, Clippers and Grizzlies, but the last three spots will be decided in the final week. The Mavericks, Rockets, Nuggets, Suns and Jazz are all within two games of each other, which will make for an exciting final ten games of the season.

4. Fatigue Factor

– Like injuries, fatigue has been a major factor this season and teams that clinch playoff spots early, would be wise to give as much rest to players as possible. The Spurs have already started resting Duncan, Parker and Ginobili and other teams would be smart to do the same, especially the older ones. It will be fascinating to see which teams look tired towards the end of the season and if it will effect them come playoff time.
5. Can The Older Teams Make a Run?

– Every year the Lakers, Spurs and Celtics keep hearing that their window has closed and once again, each of these teams are near the top of their respective conferences. All three could conceivably win the title, but it will be interesting to see if they have the legs to make it through the playoffs, after this shortened and condensed season.

6. Cinderella Story

– Each year, the public likes to guess at which team will become the Cinderella of the playoffs. Last year, the Grizzlies played the role well and came within a game of making the Western Conference finals. The world loves an underdog and it will be interesting to see who gets crowned as this season’s possible Cinderella team.

7. Jeremy Lin

– Despite the fact that Lin has been all but ruled out of play until at least the second round of the playoffs, people will want constant updates on his health and availability. It would become a wonderful story if he somehow plays in the first round and leads the Knicks to an upset, however it is doubtful that Lin will play again this season, as he is coming off a serious injury.  Once again, it must be noted that the Knicks may not even make the playoffs, so the Jeremy Lin story could simply become moot.

8. Depth

– Having depth in the regular seasons can help a team win games, but it is well known that depth becomes much less of a factor in the playoffs, as coaches play their starters as much as they can handle. Because of the aforementioned short season and probable fatigue, it will be interesting to see if benches become more important than usual in the playoffs. If so, it will give a major advantage to the Bulls and Spurs, who would not be fighting for the top seed in their conferences, without it. Other playoff contenders with great depth; the 76ers, Nuggets, Rockets, Grizzlies and Pacers.

9. The Los Angeles Rivalry

– The Clippers are looking to end the Lakers’ long running dominance of the Pacific Division and are fighting for their first Pacific title ever. It is currently a very close race and should go down to the final days. There is also a very good chance that the two teams could meet in the first round of the playoffs, which would create one of the most intriguing first round series in years.

10. Can the Heat Make it Over the Hump?

– What is bound to be the hot topic around playoff time is whether or not the Heat can win the title. Because of the hype and the dramatic actions that formed the team, as well as the national spotlight, every year they lose, they will be called failures. Fair or not, this is the reality that the Heat will face and every game, play and mistake will be heavily discussed. If they lose, they will endure another year of torment and questions about if they have what it takes to actually win the trophy.

Who is the Best Coach? (Top Ten 2011-12 NBA Coaching Rankings)

Who is the 2011-12 Coach of the Year? (Top Ten Coach Rankings)

* Scott Brooks and Eric Spoelstra from Oklahoma City and Miami respectively have both had great years, but have stayed relatively injury free and have their teams playing up to their talent and overall expectations, which will not make them serious contenders for the award.

1. Gregg Popovich- San Anotnio Spurs

– This will be an extremely close race, but the favorite has got to be Gregg Popovich, who has the Spurs at the top of the Western Conference standings. In years past this would not have been a big deal for the team, but considering Manu Ginobili has missed about half the season, Tim Duncan is a shell of his former self and a large part of the rotation is extremely young and previously unproven, makes this quite remarkable. No other coach in basketball could have done as well as Popovich in this situation, which makes the award Popovich’s to lose.

2. Rick Adelman- Minnesota Timberwolves

– The Timberwolves have had a breakout year under new coach Rick Adelman. They may not make the playoffs, but that cannot take away how far the team has come. Yes, the players have had a huge part in this, as has the arrival of Ricky Rubio, who was sensational before tearing his knee last month, but the biggest move of their off season may have been the arrival of coach Adelman. Adelman has wisely abandoned the team’s foolish attempt at the triangle offense, used by former coach Kurt Rambis and has, as usual, gotten the very best out of his team. Arguably Adelman’s most impressive achievement this season is creating a workable rotation that uses three point guards, no shooting guards and about fifty forwards. A lot of players have stepped up for the Wolves, but they would not be where they are and in the playoff chase without Adelman.

3. Tom Thibodeau- Chicago Bulls

– No coach has ever won this award in back-to-back years, but that may change this year, as Tom Thibodeau has been an even better coach this season. The fact that the Bulls have the best record in the league despite missing Rose for 22 games, Deng for 9 games and Hamilton for 38 games is quite an accomplishment. The reason for their success is Thibodeau’s defensive coaching and the never quit attitude he has brought to the team. Why has he not been given a new contract?

4. Frank Vogel- Indiana Pacers

– In Vogel’s first full season as a head coach in the NBA, he currently has his team in third place in the Eastern Conference and has his team playing consistently great basketball. He has done a wonderful job of developing his young team and has the team playing very efficient defense, despite the fact that the team was built on offense. He is definitely one of the brightest young minds in the NBA.

5. Stan Van Gundy- Orlando Magic

– Van Gundy has had a phenomenal season, as he has the Magic gunning for a top four seed, but the real work has been behind the scenes and off the court. He has a superstar player who wants him fired and has had to deal with a locker with constant trade rumors for multiple players. The fact that he has kept the team afloat and actually winning is a great feat. He may not be in Orlando next year, but that should not take away from the excellent job he has done all year.

6. Byron Scott- Cleveland Cavaliers

– Scott coached the league’s worst team a year ago, in fact there were probably a few college teams that could have beaten the Cavaliers in their first post Lebron season. The team won’t make the playoffs this year, but have made huge strides this season and Scott has been a major part of this. The biggest change from last season is of course, the arrival of number one pick and eventual Rookie of the Year, Kyrie Irving, who has been spectacular. The Cavaliers are a very young team that plays hard every night, which is actually a rarity in the NBA and it is because of the leadership and coaching ability of Byron Scott.

7. Lionel Hollins- Memphis Grizzlies

– For the second straight year, Hollins has flown under the radar, but the excellence of his coaching cannot be understated. Last year the team lost Rudy Gay to injury and Hollins turned the offense over to Randolph and Gasol down low and preached defense. This season with Randolph out for the majority of the season, he turned the team back into a perimeter-oriented offense, while still demanding the same great defense. It is no easy task to change the offensive philosophy of a team twice in two years and still have the team thrive, which makes Hollins one of the best coaches in the league. If you have talent and preach defense, your team will overachieve.

8. Ty Corbin– Utah Jazz

– Corbin has turned the Jazz back into playoff contenders, which is no small accomplishment as the team has lost All-Star Deron Williams and coach Jerry Sloan in the past year. What is most impressive is how he has seamlessly worked their four lottery picks over the last two years into the rotation, to go along with their cast of strong veterans. The team has exceeded almost all expectations and Corbin, who is in his first full year as a head coach, deserves a lot of credit.

9. Larry Drew- Atlanta Hawks

– Drew has the Hawks in the middle of the Eastern Conference playoffs, despite missing the team’s best player, Al Horford, for almost the entire season. Joe Johnson and Josh Smith have kept the team afloat on the floor, but without the excellent coaching of Drew, the team would not have been able to overcome the loss of Horford. Most kept waiting for the team to falter and fall down the standings, but it never happened, which is a testament to the stability that coach Drew brings.

10. Mike Brown- LA Lakers

– After a difficult start to the season, Mike Brown has the Lakers playing great basketball going into the final stretch. Being the man who replaces Phil Jackson, the greatest basketball coach of all time is no easy task and Brown has done quite well. Before the trade for Ramon Sessions, the team had nothing behind Bryant, Bynum and Gasol and it surprising that the team was able to win so often. The team now seems to be legitimate title contenders and Brown has already passed his most important test, getting the attention and respect of Kobe.

How The Magic Can Keep Howard

How the Magic Can Keep Howard

Dwight Howard has recently exercised his player option for the 2012-13 season, guaranteeing his continued play in Orlando, at least for a while. Although Magic fans and ownership must be happy to keep their star player, unless the team improves and Howard feels comfortable, the Howard Circus will continue into next season. Regardless, Howard is worth the trouble and the circus, as he is the consensus top center in the league and is going for the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year honor for the fourth straight year. If Orlando wants to avoid the mayhem that haunted the team all year long and get Howard to stay, they need to build around him, the right way. The team has done well this season and will easily make the playoffs, but Howard has repeatedly stated his desire to win a championship and it is doubtful that the team as is can compete for a title. Some changes, small and large could make the difference between keeping and losing Dwight Howard and there are things that the Magic must do to improve.

How to Build Around Howard: Before going over changes and improvement ideas, you must know how a Dwight Howard led team is most productive. On defense, Howard is such a dominant presence, that even with mediocre defensive talent around him, the team will be near the top in defensive statistics, but it is not as easy on offense. Howard plays his best when he has the paint to himself, which is why it is important to surround him with shooters, as the constant double teams will always leave a player open. The Magic have done this quite well and have some of the best shooters in the league on their team. The team must also have a point guard who can spread the ball around, but also be able to drive to the hoop, which will open up room for Howard. If the Magic hit their threes and Howard is playing well, the team is near unbeatable, but if the threes are not falling they are in trouble. This happened in last season’s playoffs, as they were thoroughly dominated by a lesser Atlanta Hawks team. This makes the team way too one dimensional, which is why the team desperately needs a star on the perimeter, a player who can create his own shot and carry the load when the shooters are off and Howard is struggling. This would add a completely new dimension to the team and could make them a contender. They have tried this over the years, first with a washed up Vince Carter, which was an obvious failure and recently with a past his prime, Jason Richardson, who while still productive, is not the star they need. With the most dominant big man in the league, a second option on the perimeter and a stable of shooters surrounding them, the Magic would be unstoppable.

 Fix the Cap: The Magic have had a great year, but if they want to have any chance to improve the roster in the future and in doing so keep Howard for good, the salary cap mess in Orlando must be fixed. Over the last two years the Magic have traded for Gilbert Arenas, Hedo Turkoglu, Glen Davis and Jason Richardson, the first three moves being massive mistakes. The Richardson trade was fine as he is still a very productive player, but between Turkoglu and Arenas they inherited over 120 million dollars of overpaid and past their prime, talent. In regards to Davis, they traded Brandon Bass to the Celtics in a sign and trade move. The problem is that Bass is a much better player and is playing on a much smaller contract. Apart from the trades, they have resigned Jason Richardson to a 4 year, 25 million dollar contract, signed the previously mentioned Glen Davis to a 4 year, 26 million dollar contract, signed Chris Duhon to a 4 year, 15 million dollar contract and resigned JJ Redick for 3 years and 19 million dollars. The team has since amnestied Arenas, which ended up costing the team their amnesty clause, which would have helped them remedy their current ailments and of course the near 60 million still left on his contract. Richardson, Redick and Davis are all solid players, but they overpaid for all three. The Duhon signing was ludicrous and has proved disastrous, as he is not worth even half of that money. In order to build a contender around Howard, they ended up destroying their current and future cap space, but because of the price tags given, the Magic must role with what they have, as these players will be extremely difficult to trade. Because of these mistakes, someone must take the blame and it should be Otis Smith, their GM.

 Fire Otis Smith: It is understandable that Smith tried to do what he could in order to improve the team, however there was nothing wrong with the team that made it to the 2009 finals. Since then he has made countless “bold” moves to try and turn the team into champions, however almost every single one of these moves has backfired. Whether or not Smith gets fired, he or their next GM must learn self-control. Since 2008 Otis Smith has been easily the worst GM in the NBA and the team can do better and will need to do better if they hope to keep Howard.

Let Stan Van Gundy Go: A recent development has shown the instability in the locker room between Howard and coach Stan Van Gundy. Van Gundy has recently let it be known that he has heard that Howard has asked for the coach to be fired. Howard has since denied the rumors, but one has to take the side of Van Gundy, as he has no reason to lie, as his claim has all but ended his relationship with Dwight and therefore the team.  If a team has to choose between a coach and star player, the player will win 10 out of 10 times and with no disrespect to Van Gundy, who is an excellent coach, the team must find a new head coach.

Resign Ryan Anderson: The next major step is the logical resigning of the team’s second best player, Ryan Anderson. He is a perfect frontcourt player to match with Howard, as he is one of the best shooters in the NBA and a more than capable rebounder. He is a restricted free agent, so the team can match any offer, however the team would be wise to sign him before a team throws a massive offer sheet his way. He is vital to the team’s successes, however they must be smart and offer him a fair contract and cannot get carried away as usual. A contract in the five-year and 45-55 million range is his market price and Anderson would be well worth the money. Keeping Anderson would be a positive step in the right direction, but if they want Howard to stay, they must add more.

Round Out The Roster: Along with Dwight Howard and the previously detailed Ryan Anderson, the rest of the roster is not too impressive. There are the overpriced veterans, a lack of young talent and quite a few D-League caliber players. The only real young talent of note is Earl Clark, who has recently come alive and has shown signs of being an elite defensive player. The true wildcard on the Magic is former All-Star point guard Jameer Nelson, who after a nightmarish first half of the year has really come on as of late. In fact, Nelson is playing his best basketball in at least two years. If he keeps this up, he can once again be the point guard the team so desperately needs to open up space for Howard. The only problem is that Nelson has the option to opt out of his contract at the end of the current season. If he does decline his option, a new starter would need to be found, as Chris Duhon cannot be a starter for a team that wants to win a title. The trio of Howard, Anderson and Nelson heading into 2012-13 is a good start, but they need one more good piece.

Trade Up in the Draft: The Magic are in desperate need for the aforementioned perimeter player that can take the team to the next level. This is of course, no easy task and they do not have the cap space to sign a major free agent, or have the pieces for a major trade, unless Howard is involved. This means that the last possible chance is trading up in the draft and hoping that a major prospect falls. There are quite a few perimeter players in the upcoming draft with star potential and one or two are bound to fall out of the top ten. The prime targets are Harrison Barnes and Jeremy Lamb, both top five prospects, who have both disappointed in their sophomore seasons. Both players have the capabilities to become the missing peace for the Magic, Barnes with his scoring and Lamb with his all-around offensive talents. The team has not had an elite talent on the roster outside of Howard in years and if the team were able land one, it would show Howard that they are willing to do what it takes to build a champion and if he just gives them the time, they can win a title.

Make Peace: It is impossible to predict the amount of bad blood that is present within the organization, but based on reports to come out of Orlando, there are probably severe problems with the team on all levels. The team cannot be happy with Howard’s public trade requests and for putting them through this circus. This off season, Howard and the whole organization needs to have a long talk, get out their frustrations and put it past them or else the team cannot move forward and become contenders. Also, if the team is to keep Stan Van Gundy, a lot of work between Howard and Van Gundy must occur to fix their relationship. Without peace throughout the organization Howard will most likely pack up and leave, which cannot happen.

Give Dwight Power, But Not Too Much: In order to appease Howard and make him feel truly wanted, they should give him a say in all changes made by the team, when it comes to improving the talent and management. He should in no way have the final say, but knowing that his input matters, may convince him that he can have a future in Orlando. This leads to just one final point.

Win: The last step in keeping Howard is to fulfill his one wish, win. If the team can prove that they have what it takes to become a winner, then Howard will stay and they will keep their franchise player for many years to come. If not, he will leave and the franchise will be in ruins, it is this simple. What the team does over the summer could mean the difference between contention and starting over.

NBA TOP 40 AT 25

NBA Top 40 At 25

A Ranking of Players 25 and Under

Mike Elworth (Hoopstuff Publisher)

NBA fans and media alike have the good fortune to be able to watch and cover the league at this time, as the talent level may be as high as it has ever been. It is in fact so good, that this list was supposed to be a list of the top 25 players, 25 years old and under, but the talent forced me to make the list, the top 40 young players in the NBA. This is of course just my opinion, so feel free to leave comments below, if you agree, disagree or have an opinion yourself. As always thanks for reading.

1. Kevin Durant: Oklahoma City Thunder –23- 2^nd Pick 2007

The two-time scoring champion gets the top spot for one simple reason, he is the most gifted and unstoppable offensive force in the league. His mixture of ball handling, distribution, shooting, driving, size and length has turned him into a player with no equal on the offensive end. Add in his leadership, intangibles and effort and he is the epitome of what superstardom should be.

2. Derrick Rose: Chicago Bulls- 23- 1^st Pick 2008

The defending MVP just missed out at number one after serious deliberation, but will have to settle for second place. The top point guard in the NBA is an elite athlete and has an extraordinary work ethic and has been able to improve in every area of his game since entering the NBA. He has improved his shot, defense and passing and has become a true superstar. His leadership, humility and intangibles, along with his talent and skill make him one of the league’s best players.

 3. Kevin Love: Minnesota Timberwolves- 23- 5^th Pick 2008

– Love is now arguably the top power forward in the NBA and is a player whose type has rarely been seen in the league. He is a top-two NBA rebounder and has a complete offensive game. He is an elite shooter, has a brilliant set of low-post moves and is a willing and talented distributor. He has the best inside-outside offensive game of any big man in the entire league and will only get better. Few if any big men in NBA history can shoot over 40% from three and average 13 rebounds per game.

4. Blake Griffin: Los Angeles Clippers- 22- 1^st Pick 2009

– It did not take long for Griffin to become one of the most popular players in the league. He was the first rookie to make the All-Star team since Penny Hardaway in 1994 and is already a dominant low post threat. He is also one of the most athletic players in the league and has become the most electrifying dunker in the entire NBA. He does have weaknesses, mainly shooting, free throws and defense, but is too talented not to become a better player over the years.

5. Andrew Bynum: Los Angeles Lakers- 25- 10^th Pick 2006

– Fresh off his first All-Star appearance, Bynum has finally seemed to put all of his talent together. Being healthy for the first time in years has had to help and he has showed on a nightly basis that he is a legitimate two-way player in the NBA. He is an elite rebounder, has an excellent low-post game and has proven to be an All-NBA talent on the defensive end. It seems the only thing that can hold him back is his health and if his body holds up, he should be considered the second best center in the NBA for years to come.

 6. Russell Westbrook- Oklahoma City Thunder- 23- 4^th Pick 2008

– Russell Westbrook can be a bit of an enigma, but he is supremely talented and one of the most talented and explosive players in the NBA. Other than Rose, no other guard can get to the hoop easier and few players are faster than Westbrook. He has also improved his shooting and point guard skills and although he looks to score too much, has become a real point guard. He does have a few lapses to his game, mainly, ball-hogging tendencies, falling in love with shooting now and again and poor decision-making. If he and Durant can solve their alpha dog situation for good, then no NBA duo will be more potent and effective as the two Thunder superstars.

 7. Al Horford- Atlanta Hawks- 25- 3^rd Pick 2007

– Horford has been out for almost the entire season, so many have forgotten just how good he is. He is a legitimate 20-10 threat and a great defender down low. He has a beautiful offensive game, a great midrange shot and a stable of low post moves. He is the Hawks’ best player and if healthy could win them a playoff series or two.

8. Greg Monroe- Detroit Pistons- 23- 7^th Pick 2010

– Monroe is arguably the most underrated player in the NBA, which is a product of playing on a lowly Detroit Pistons team. He has quietly become one of the best big men in the league and is the Pistons’ best player and is the centerpiece to their future. He is an elite passer from the post and has a terrific set of offensive moves and an effective jump shot. There were questions about his motor and effort coming out of college, but he has proven his critics wrong and has become an All-Star caliber player.

9. Stephen Curry- Golden State Warriors- 24- 7^th Pick 2009

– Saying that he is this generation’s Steve Nash is going a tad overboard, but should in no way take away from how great a player Curry is and how much better he could become if his injury problems would go away. He has become a true floor leader and is a fantastic passer. Of course the staple of his game is his jump shot, which is truly a work of art and one day soon he should crack the elite, 50-40-90 club. He must work on his defense, which is quite simply atrocious and needs to stop turning the ball over as often, but he has what it takes to become a perennial All-Star and one of the best guards in the NBA.

10. Eric Gordon- New Orleans Hornets- 23- 7^th Pick 2008

– Without a doubt, Gordon was the hardest player to place on this list. He has been injured almost the entire season, but over the second half of last season, became one of the best shooting guards in the entire league. In a league with a lack of quality shooting guards, Gordon has the talent to become the third best two-guard after Bryant and Wade. He may be on the short side, but is an elite shooter and a surprisingly good athlete and defender. He can drive to the lain and is an excellent passer.  Easily his team’s best player, even after playing just two games, he should be considered the centerpiece of the Hornets rebuilding plans. He should be back on the court soon and will be playing for a new contract, so look out. The Hornets should without a doubt do whatever it takes to keep him in New Orleans for years to come.

 11. Kyle Lowry- Houston Rockets- 25- 24^th Pick 2007

– Another ridiculously underrated player, Lowry may be the best two-way point guard in the NBA. He is big and long and smothers people on defense and on offense, runs the team beautifully, is a gifted passer and a great shooter. He should only get better in time and is an All-Star caliber talent.

 12. Rudy Gay- Memphis Grizzlies- 24- 9^th Pick 2006

– One of the most athletically gifted players in the NBA, Gay has become one of the best offensive players in the entire league. He drives to the hoop with ease and has developed a very good jump shot. He has lapses in judgment and could work harder on defense, but he is just a very special player and is capable of being a team’s first option on offense.

 13. Roy Hibbert- Indiana Pacers- 25- 17^th Pick 2008

– Deserving or not, Hibbert was an All-Star this season and has become one of the better centers in the league and arguably the second best center in the East. The league’s tallest player has an arsenal of moves down low, a reliable jump shot and is one of the league’s best rebounders. He is also a load on defense, using his size to give players problems on that end. His lack of athleticism may limit his potential, but his skill set should keep him in the upper class of centers for years to come and additional All-Star appearances are definitely in his future.

 14. Kyrie Irving- Cleveland Cavaliers- 19- 1^st Pick 2011

– This may be too low for the eventual Rookie of the Year, but a half season of work is not enough to bump down any of the other more accomplished players above him. Easily the top player in his draft class, Irving has been better than anyone expected. After only playing a handful of college games due to injury, Irving has burst onto the scene and has lead the surprisingly good Cavaliers back to respectability. He has taken the role of franchise player to heart and will only get better. For a rookie, he is an excellent distributor and shooter and despite elite athleticism, can pick his spots on the floor and move wherever he wants. It is great to see the Cavaliers get back on track after losing Lebron and Irving is the main reason for their recovery.

15. John Wall- Washington Wizards- 21- 1^st Pick 2010

– Many are pegging John Wall as a disappointment, but his problems have been based on his circumstances and not on his own talent. Wall does have his weaknesses, mainly a horrendous shot and a problem with turnovers, but his team has done him no favors. Until the Nene trade, which is a fantastic move in the right direction, he was surrounded by head cases and ball hogs and he had to carry the team on his back. He may be the fastest player in the NBA, is an elite athlete, an excellent distributor and great ball handler. If he can discover how to shoot the ball with consistency, he can easily become one of the best players in the league.

 16. Tyreke Evans- Sacramento Kings- 22- 4^th Pick 2009

– For one reason or another, Evans has not been able to replicate the success from his outstanding 2010 Rookie of the Year season, but is still one of the best young players in the NBA. He is an elite athlete and is unstoppable driving to the hoop, but he turns the ball over far too often and is not a great shooter. It seems that the team has finally realized that he is not a true point guard and have wisely placed him in a Lebronesque point-forward role. He is an excellent distributor, but just does not have the mindset to be a point guard and actually lead a team.

 17. Demarcus Cousins- Sacramento Kings- 20- 5^th Pick 2010

– The talent of Cousins is unmistakable, but his maturity issues and attitude have held him back. He could easily become a top-five NBA center, but he has proven to be a massive head case. To be fair he has seemed to have improved in this area since the team fired coach Paul Westphal, but it just seems to be an inevitability that he will have another episode sometime soon. When it comes to talent, not many players can compete with Cousins, who is already an elite low-post scorer and rebounder. If he can finally put everything together, he can become a superstar in this league.

 18. Ty Lawson- Denver Nuggets- 23- 18^th Pick 2009

– Lawson is another completely underrated player. He may be short, but is as quick as they come and has a very high basketball IQ. He is great at getting to the rim, setting up his teammates and runs the Nuggets high flying offense to a T. He is the perfect point guard for George Karl’s high scoring squad and although he may not have the upside of most players on this list, should be a great player for many years to come.

 19. James Harden- Oklahoma City Thunder- 22- 3^rd Pick 2009

– Besides having easily the greatest beard in the game, Harden has more than made up for his disappointing rookie season and has become the best backup in the league. He could easily become the starter, but his game suggests the role of the ideal sixth man on a contending team. He is simply a player without a weakness, as he is a great shooter, passer, ball-handler and a willing defender and although a shooting guard, can run a team like a point guard. He is also a fantastic teammate and his willingness to come off the bench and in doing so sacrificing his own stats, says a lot about his character.

 20. Brandon Jennings- Milwaukee Bucks- 21- 10^th Pick 2009

– Jennings is another difficult player to peg. Some days he plays like a star and others he can single handedly shoot his team out of games. He has great strengths, his speed, ball-handling and penetration, but significant weaknesses as well, including ball-hogging tendencies, turnovers and defense. He still has a long way to go in becoming a complete basketball player, but he is one of the most talented guards in the league. One further point of note is Milwaukee’s acquisition of Monte Ellis, may hurt him as they are extremely similar players and both need the ball to be effective. This will be something to keep an eye on in the future.

 21. Ricky Rubio- Minnesota Timberwolves- 22- 5th Pick 2009

– Rubio was a sensation and a revelation for the Timberwolves before tragically tearing his ACL. The good news is that the injury should not have lasting effects, as he has never relied on athleticism. Rubio is already one of the most gifted passers and ball-handlers in the NBA and has elite, Magic Johnson worthy court vision. He is also a much better shooter and defender than expected and should continue to amaze fans for years to come.

 22. Danillo Galianari- Denver Nuggets- 23- 6^th Pick 2008

– Galinari was a very good player for the Knicks, but since being traded in the Carmello Anthony trade, he has thrived in Denver. He is an elite shooter, a great athlete and a very efficient offensive player. He may not be a first option for a contending team but he can carry an offense if need be. He should only get better over the years and is in a great situation in the fast paced, Denver offense.

23. Jeremy Lin- New York Knicks- 23- Undrafted 2010

– By now everyone knows the story of Jeremy Lin, the first American born Chinese player to play in the NBA and a star at Harvard, who defied the odds to become the starting point guard for the Knicks. He was recently injured and will most likely be out for the remainder of the regular season, but has had a season to remember. He is an incredible ball-handler and passer and can run an offense beautifully, however he does have some glaring weaknesses. He is a turnover machine and a poor defender, but the good definitely outweighs the bad.

 24. Nic Batum- Portland Trailblazers- 23- 25^th Pick 2008

– Another fantastic young player who is extremely underrated, Batum has become one of the best two-way perimeter players in the NBA. He is an amazing defender and uses his length to cause problems on defense, but is also a skilled offensive player, who keeps getting better on a daily basis. A solid shooter and an elite athlete, Batum can get to the hoop with ease, in fact the only problem with Batum on offense, is that he can be too passive. Batum still has not come close to fulfilling his full potential and could become a star, but for now he is an elite defender, with an ever-improving offensive game.

 25. Ryan Anderson- Orlando Magic- 24- 21^st Pick 2008

– Anderson has had a breakout year and has become one of the best shooters in the NBA, leading the league in both 3-point attempts and makes. He can also find his own shot, which gets him extra open looks and is a very good rebounder. He is not the best defender, or athlete, but he is the perfect frontcourt mate for Dwight Howard, as he gives Howard space to do his thing and hits open shots when passed to. He may not have the potential of other players on this list, but plays up to his strengths and should be a great player for years.

 26. Paul George- Indiana Pacers- 22- 10^th Pick 2010

– Another player just scratching the surface of his potential, George is already an elite perimeter defender and has excellent size and length for a perimeter player. He may be playing out of position at shooting guard, but has thrived regardless. One of the better athletes in the league and a fantastic dunker, he has surprised many with a more than reliable three point shot. He has superstar potential and at the rate he is progressing, he could get there.

 27. Serge Ibaka- Oklahoma City Thunder- 23- 23^rd Pick 2008

– Ibaka came into the NBA as raw as they come, but has become better than most thought possible. Ridiculously athletic, with possibly the longest wingspan in the NBA, Ibaka has become one of the league’s top defenders and is leading the league in blocked shots. He is also a top-notch rebounder and although he is not a great offensive player and never will be. He mostly scores off of put backs and open shots made possible by teams double teaming Durant or Westbrook. He is on the perfect team that does not need him to be an offensive force and allows him to play to his strengths and he may one day challenge Orlando’s Dwight Howard as the best defensive big man in the league.

 28. Ersan Iylasova- Milwaukee Bucks- 24- 36th Pick 2005

– Playing in Milwaukee, not many people know about him, but that should change soon, as he has become an offensive force. An elite shooter and able to create his own shot, Iylasova scores points in bunches and is one of the best rebounders in the league. He has had some amazing performances this season and has gone for 20/20 multiple times. A free agent this off-season, Ilyasova has been rumored to be pondering returning overseas, but if he stays he could become an All-Star.

 29. Deandre Jordan- Los Angeles Clippers- 23- 35^th Pick 2008

– Crazy long and athletic, Jordan has become a dominant defender in the NBA, a top rebounder and shot-blocker, and an overall master at protecting the basket. His offense may be restricted to put backs and easy dunks and he may be a porous free-throw shooter, but Jordan knows his strengths and plays to them.

 30. Demar Derozan- Toronto Raptors- 22- 9^th Pick 2009

– Derozan is an elite talent, but his inconsistencies have made him extremely hard to peg. He is an incredible athlete and is able to create his own shot and get to the basket, but his shooting has been extremely hot and cold and he especially struggles from the outside. Derozan is also not the best of defenders and can be a bit of a ball-hog, but if he can play consistent basketball, he could become one of the best shooting guards in the NBA.

 31. Brook Lopez- New Jersey Nets- 23- 10^th Pick 2008

– Lopez has been hurt almost the entire season, but when he has actually been playing, he has played All-Star caliber basketball. It is well known that he is a dominant offensive player down-low with a great post skill-set and an excellent mid-range shot, but his horrible defense and rebounding numbers, have really hurt his value.

 32. Lou Williams- Philadelphia 76ers- 25-  45th Pick 2005

– He may be a backup, but Williams is leading the playoff-bound 76ers in scoring, which is remarkable and rare for a sixth man. He is a very gifted offensive player, a great ball handler and shooter and a good passer when he wants to be. He may be a ball-hog at times and is a poor defender, but he is one of the best sixth men in the league and a top offensive guard. He could start for a number of teams and could get that chance next season, as he could become a free agent, if he declines his player option.

 33. Mike Conley- Memphis Grizzlies- 24- 4^th Pick 2007

– Conley came into the league with a lot of potential and has come a long way since entering the league. He is a great game manager and sets up the Grizzlies offense extremely well, which is difficult since the Grizzlies are a team with multiple players who need the ball to be effective. He is a top passer and ball-handler and a very good shooter and defender and should be the Grizzlies point guard for years to come. He is on a team that lets him play to his strengths, which has allowed him to thrive.

34. Thaddeus Young- Philadelphia 76ers- 23- 17^th Pick 2007

– Young may not have a true position, but he is a nightmare on offense. His size makes it difficult for small forwards to match up and his athleticism makes it difficult for power forwards to guard him. He is also a very good rebounder and a solid defender. He has never been given a chance to be a starter, which has hurt his career, but he is still a very productive player regardless.

 35. Gerald Henderson- Charlotte Bobcats- 12^th Pick 2009

– Gerald Henderson is easily the Bobcats’ best player, which is not saying much, as they are a historically awful team this season. He is top perimeter defender and a more than reliable offensive player. On offense he is a good shooter, ball handler and has the athleticism to get the basket. He in no way should be a team’s first or even second option, but he is a very good player.

 36. Evan Turner- Philadelphia 76ers- 23- 2^nd Pick 2010

– Turner has really turned a corner since the All-Star break and has become the player the 76ers hoped for when they drafted him second overall two years ago. He is an elite ball handler, passer and rebounder for a shooting guard and is great at setting his teammates up and creating his own shot. He has a good mid-range shot, but should spend some time fixing his three-point shot, but after an extremely disappointing first year and half, Turner has truly broken out.

 37. Jrue Holliday- Philadelphia 76ers- 21- 17^th Pick 2009

– Yet another 76er, Holliday has become a capable starting point guard, but his talent suggests that he could become much better. He is already an elite defender at point guard and is a solid distributor and shooter, but he could improve in every area on offense. His defense is truly special, which is what puts him on this list.

 38. Wilson Chandler- Denver Nuggets- 24- 21^st Pick 2007

– Finally returning from China, Chandler has come into Denver looking to make a difference for the struggling Nuggets. He is a great athlete and a very good two-way player who can score in a variety of ways. He has great size for a perimeter player, which makes him a match up problem and if he comes close to reaching last season’s production, he could easily rise up this list.

 39. Jeff Teague- Atlanta Hawks- 22- 19^th Pick 2009

– Teague has slowly improved since being drafted, but has not shown the consistency to claim the starting position long term. He is extremely fast, but can be reckless and when not scoring, he often seems lost. He is filled with potential, but if he cannot gain game-to-game consistency, he will be replaced. However, he is a gifted scorer and has shown some signs of becoming a full time point guard, but for a team that is ready to compete now, they need him to produce on a daily basis.

 40. Spencer Hawes- Philadelphia 76ers 24- 10^th Pick 2007

– And yet another 76ers player makes the cut, which would make a total of five. It is no wonder the team is having such a great year. Hawes has been in and out of the lineup the entire season, but when playing, he has shown signs of becoming a very good starting NBA center. He can shoot, post up, is a top passer for a big man and is a solid defender. The way he is improving, he could become one of the better centers in the NBA.

And Up They Go (Risers in the NBA Draft)

And Up they Go (Risers in the Draft)

The NCAA tournament is the ultimate showcase for an NBA caliber player to prove that they have what it takes to truly make it in the pros and be a difference maker. Every year, scores of prospects perform on the biggest stage and by their tournament performances alone can make themselves millions of dollars, with great play. A good tournament can turn an undrafted player into a second round pick, a second round pick into a first round pick and a first round pick into a lottery selection. Here is a look at the players who based on their March Madness performances have improved their stock and are in line to rise up in the draft.

Bradley Beal: Florida- Guard

Beal was a lottery pick regardless of his play in the tournament. He was already one of the best shooters in the draft and arguably the top rebounding guard in the country. His mixture of youth and talent made a top fifteen pick a certainty, but now, after carrying Florida in their unexpected, extended stay in the tournament, he has positioned himself as a possible top five pick. His foolish travel at the end of their elite eight game against Louisville, may have cost Florida a chance at a Final Four appearance, but his elite rebounding numbers and fantastic shooting percentage throughout the tournament has without a doubt made him one of the best prospects in the draft.

Jae Crowder: Marquette- Forward

Crowder was a mid-second round prospect before the tournament began, but his fantastic showing in the tournament has without a doubt put him in the first round discussion. His motor, energy, hustle and determination was undeniable and in fact reminiscent of Joakim Noah. He also was able to show off a nifty jump shot, as well as elite defensive and rebounding potential. If a team is drafting for on the court intangibles towards the end of the first round, Crowder is definitely their man. The only thing holding him back is his size, where at 6’6, teams could shy away from him.

Draymond Green: Michigan State- Forward

Green was one of the country’s best players all year long, but his play in the tournament has made him a sure fire first round selection. His offense and defense are both elite at times, but the overall intensity that he plays with, every minute on the floor, is extremely impressive. Also, his leadership has been a huge factor for Michigan State and cannot be overstated. Green has the entire package and should be a great player at the next level and a contributor from day one.

 Quincy Acy (F) and Pierre Jackson (PG): Baylor

Throughout Baylor’s elite eight run, the majority of scouts eyes were without a doubt fixed upon their two lottery talents, Quincy Miller and Perry Jones, however the true stars for the Baylor Bears were Quincy Acy and Pierre Jackson. Brady Heslip was obviously instrumental in their run, but he is just a jump shooter and simply does not have the size to play in the NBA. Quincy Acy carried the Bears with his great two-way play, athleticism and on the court leadership and proved that he has an NBA game. He could sneak into the first round. Jackson was simply electrifying at times, as he ran the team to perfection and showed an NBA jump shot. He can definitely become an NBA player at point guard and has shown that he has what it takes to lead a team, even if it is just as a backup.

 Kendall Marshall: North Carolina- PG

Yes, Marshall only played two games in the tournament, but the fact that the team struggled so mightily without him shows how important he was to the team. In the two games that he did play, he was passing the ball as well as always. This was not as big of a deal as he was already the top pure point guard in the nation, but during the NCAA Tournament and the ACC Tournament, he started showing that he could score the ball at a very high level. He can shoot it from deep, drive to the lane and create his own shot. He is now a probable lottery pick and could be the first point guard taken.

 Thomas Robinson: Kansas- Forward

It is never easy for a consensus top five prospect to improve his draft position, but Robinson has done this by carrying an under whelming Kansas team to the Final Four. He did this with their second best player, Tyshawn Taylor, struggling in every game, except their elite eight victory over North Carolina. Robinson should win National Player of the Year, as he was simply the best player in the nation this season. He has become the second best prospect in the draft and cemented his place in the top five. He will be a daily double-double threat in the NBA.

 Patrick Silva- Louisville- PG

Louisville is one of the best defensive teams in the nation, which is a big reason why they have made the Final Four, however, no team can make it this far without players stepping up on offense and Silva has done just that. He is the team’s star player, a great leader and a gritty player and has easily moved up in the draft and has gone from an undrafted player into a probable second round pick. He will not be a star in the NBA, but can stick around on an NBA roster as a backup.

 Jordan Taylor: Wisconsin- PG

  Wisconsin played exceptionally well in the tournament and are a very well coached team and nearly made it to the elite eight. The main reason for their success was the play from their senior star, Jordan Taylor. Whenever they needed a basket, Taylor provided it and ran the team incredibly well. He was a fringe draft prospect, but now should without a doubt be drafted somewhere in the second round in June. He can be a fantastic backup point guard in the league.

 Dion Waiters: Syracuse- Guard

Waiters has played off the bench for the majority of the season, however he has what it takes to be a starter in the NBA. He was already a first round prospect, but may have positioned himself as a lottery pick. He has the total package on offense, a beautiful jump shot, the ability to drive to the basket whenever he pleases and an intensity on that end of the floor, that is very rare for a college player. His numbers may not have been great in the tournament, however the talent was on display for everyone to see and he could become an elite offensive player in the NBA. He could be this season’s MarShon Brooks. Regardless, he has truly helped himself in the upcoming draft.

 Royce White: Iowa State

White and his Iowa State Cyclones only played two tournament games, but White dominated against some serious NBA prospects. He played against two top-five picks in Kentucky’s Anthony Davis and UCONN’s Andre Drummond and more then held his own, in fact he completely outplayed both players. White should be a lock as a first round pick.

Durant or Lebron For MVP? It Is No Contest

Most have pegged this year’s MVP race as a two-man derby, between Lebron James and Kevin Durant, however this season has one clear MVP, Lebron James. Love him or hate him, the man is the most physically blessed and athletically gifted player in the league. At the same time Lebron is having one of the most incredible seasons of all time statistically and has separated himself as the best player of this season.

Before going over the numbers and dissecting the games of both exceptional players, kudos and respect must be given to other stars who are having incredible seasons. Last year’s MVP, Derrick Rose is having as good of a season as last year, but missing ten games has effectively left him out of the MVP picture. Kevin Love has become the best power forward in the NBA and is second in rebounds and fourth in points per game. Even more impressive, Love has the Timberwolves firmly in the playoff race. Chris Paul has made all of the difference in the world to the Clippers and has turned a non-playoff team into a legitimate championship contender. His leadership, scoring, passing and defense makes him the best pure point guard in the league. Tony Parker has had his best season ever and has lead the Spurs to the second seed in the West with an ancient Tim Duncan and a chronically injured Manu Ginobili. Parker may not have the stats of his competitors, but his overall affect on Spurs team cannot be discounted. Finally, old man river, Kobe Bryant is having a phenomenal season, even by his standards. At 34 years old and in his 16^th year in the NBA, he is leading the league in scoring and keeping his team afloat, with a lack of talent on the roster. In other seasons, these four players would all be in the discussion, but because of the brilliance of Kevin Durant and Lebron James, they will be left out of the race.

As previously stated, Kevin Durant is obviously having an MVP caliber season. The two-time and possible soon-to-be-three-time scoring champion is simply the best offensive player in the league. His offense is smooth and effortless and he is unstoppable. This is accomplished by having one of the best shots in the league, a great post up game and an amazing ability to create his own shot, whenever he wants. It also helps that he is a 6’10 small forward with a 7’5 wingspan, which makes his shot near un-blockable and makes him a nightmare in the post. He has also become a much better distributor as of late and is great at getting his teammates involved, which is easy when opposing players are so afraid of you. But when it comes to the complete offensive package, no opposing player can possibly hope to contain him on defense.. Speaking of defense, this happens to be Durant’s only real weakness. He has been better this season, but does not have the strength to bully players on that end. However, he does have the speed and length to get better at this department, which will come in time.

Now on to Lebron James, the clear favorite for top honors this season. He is not just a once-in-a-generation-athlete, he is also one of, if not the top, two-way perimeter player in the NBA. But what really makes him special, is his complete set of skills. When he wants to be, Lebron is arguably the best perimeter defender in the league and can guard any player, positions 1-4. He has the speed to keep up with point guards and the length to smother them, as well as the size and strength to dominate power forwards. He is also an elite passer and distributor and one of the best in the league, not just at his position. He is unstoppable in the open court with his size, speed, strength and athleticism and is the best finisher in the league. He has even improved his shooting percentages this year, mainly by cutting down on his threes and hitting a high percentage when taking them. Lebron really only has one real weakness and it is his play in the clutch and his late game heroics, or lack there of. He has repeatedly choked in crucial moments, which has really hurt his reputation and has led to some pegging him as the best 46-minute player in the NBA. Until he fixes this problem, it will be impossible for him to be considered the universal, best player in the NBA, but he has the drive and talent to fix this.

Both players have amazing track records and are arguably the two best players in the NBA and have easily been the two best players this season. But Lebron James deserves the MVP for one distinct reason, the stats. Usually the award is awarded from a mixture of stats and team wins and as their records are near identical and both play with amazing supporting casts, it is the overall stats that turn this into Lebron’s trophy to win. He is simply having one of the greatest statistical seasons of all time and is on pace for the all-time record in PER. Say what you want about John Hollinger’s Player Efficiency Rating, it is not the end all be all that some think it is, but it is the best form of advanced statistics out there. With a stat line of 28 points, 8 rebounds, 6.5 assists and almost two steals a game, he is posting overall numbers that few players in history could produce. Add in his elite defense and he has the best overall game in the NBA and has been the best player in the league this year.

Regardless of your opinion of Lebron, it is impossible to discount that he is having a season for the ages and is the league’s MVP. Kevin Durant will win this award some day soon, but for now the MVP belongs to Lebron James after a one-year hiatus. However, this trophy will not mean a thing if he cannot lead his team to a championship and until then, he can be called the most valuable player, but not the greatest player in this league, or one of the greatest players of all time.

NBA Trades Grades

An opinion on every NBA, before the deadline.

1. Milwaukee Bucks trade Andrew Bogut and Stephen Jackson to the Golden State Warriors for Monte Ellis, Ekpe Udoh and Kwame Brown

Milwaukee Bucks: Losing Bogut hurts, but it was well known that he was going to get traded at some point. First off, Udoh is a fine young player and Brown is an injured player on an expiring contract, but the real piece was Ellis. He is one of the most gifted scorers in the league, but is very similar to Brandon Jennings and does not seem to be a Scott Skiles player, with his ball-hogging tendencies and lack of defense. This may not work as an Ellis/Jennings combo is eerily similar to the Ellis/Curry combo, as they are both undersized backcourts that are poor at defense, but can score in bunches. Not sure if this is a great fit, however this trade makes the Bucks chances of making the playoffs this season much better overall. Grade: B-

Golden State Warriors: Bogut may be currently injured and has had many injury problems during his career but he is one of the best centers in the NBA and one of the most dominating defenders in the entire league. He is also a great rebounder and has a good offensive game. If healthy, he is a great fit for the team. They are finally changing their culture in Golden State, from all offense to more defense, which will be a very welcomed sight. Also, Jackson can help offset some of the loss in scoring from losing Ellis and he was most successful while in the Bay Area. A great trade for the Warriors, the only thing that hurts the grade is the injuries to Bogut. Grade A-

2. Philadelphia 76ers Trade Rights to Ricky Sanchez to Memphis Grizzlies for Sam Young

 Philadelphia 76ers: They added a versatile perimeter player for what amounts to a player who may never play in the NBA. Regardless of fit, they got a very solid player for almost nothing. Grade: A

Memphis Grizzlies: Young was not a part of the team’s plans, but this still hurts their depth. This was a cost cutting move, for a team that needs to cut costs, since they are paying a lot of money to a small group of players. Grade: D

3. Indiana Pacers Trade Second Round Pick to Toronto Raptors for Leandro Barbosa

 Indiana Pacers: The Pacers got another scorer for their bench, which lacks punch, This is a team who wants to compete for a title and have added another player to help them out overall. Grade: A-

Toronto Raptors: The Raptors are not making the playoffs and Barbosa was gone after the season, so they were wise to get something of value for him. Grade: B+

4. Los Angeles Lakers Trade Luke Walton, Jason Kapono, 2012 First Round Pick and the Right To swap 2013 Laker’s First Round Pick with Miami Heat for Ramon Sessions and Christian Eyenga

Los Angeles Lakers: They get rid a horrible contract in Walton, a bench specialist and two late first round picks for a long needed, starting point guard and an intriguing young wing in Eyenga. Eyenga could become a Shannon Brown like backup with his great athleticism and could truly find a role on the Lakers. Losing draft picks hurt, but they get some cap space and a better shot a title, which is their only goal. Grade A

 Cleveland Cavaliers: This is quite puzzling, yes they add more draft picks, which is important, but they are taking on a really bad contract and are giving up a very good player. If it helps in the future, then this could become a good trade, but for now, it seems like a why bother move. Grade: C-

5. New Jersey Nets Trade Mehmet Okur, Shawne Williams and 2012 First Round Pick (Top Three Protected) to Portland Trailblazers for Gerald Wallace

 New Jersey Nets: They are getting an above average starter and former All-Star, but it seems like they overreacted to not being able to trade for Dwight Howard and recklessly traded for a player that might appease Deron Williams. However, they may have traded for Wallace in an effort to increase the pieces for a future Dwight trade, but they have given up significant cap space and a probable high pick in a very good draft. Grade: C

 Portland Trailblazers: This was the first of many moves in order purge the team and build for the future. Wallace was not a great fit and took minutes away from the younger and better Nic Batum and they will receive a great draft pick. Starting next year they should have a core of Batum, All-Star Lamarcus Aldridge, Wes Matthews and two probable lottery picks. Grade: A-

6. Houston Rockets Trade Jonny Flynn, Hasheem Thabeet and a Second Round Draft Pick to the Portland Trailblazers for Marcus Camby.

 Houston Rockets: The Rockets gain another solid piece for their playoff push and all that costs them is two barely used draft busts and a second round pick. Great trade for the Rockets. Grade: A

 Portland Trailblazers: Like previously stated, the Blazers are going into a rebuilding faze and decided to trade a reliable veteran for two young players, albeit colossal busts, to see if they can revive their careers. It is a two-month tryout to see if they can be apart of their future. Nice trade. Grade: B

7. San Antonio Spurs Trade Richard Jefferson to the Golden State Warriors for Stephen Jackson

 San Antonio Spurs: Brilliant trade for the Spurs, Jackson has one year less on his contract, so the team will save 11 million dollars in two years. They also know how to control Jackson, so he will not be causing trouble. This also opens more minutes for talented young players like, Gary Neal, Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green. Grade: A+

 Golden State Warriors: The Warriors lose a headache, in Jackson, but are taking back more salary. But they may have gotten the better player and regardless, he is a big upgrade at small forward over Dorrell Wright. He will play defense, which the team is trying to make more important and along with Bogut will help turn around a no defense roster in Golden State. However, with the Bogut trade and now the Jefferson trade, they have thrown away a huge amount of cap space in 2012, 2013 and 2014.    Grade C+

8.Houston Rockets Trade Jordan Hill to the Los Angeles Lakers for Derrick Fisher and a 2012 First Round Pick.

Houston Rockets: For the Rockets, they gain a leader and a solid backup point guard as well as one second round pick and only had to give up a backup center. Since they received Camby, Hill would not have played at all, so they received a nice haul. Grade: B

 Los Angeles Lakers: They Lakers received the better player in the deal, but they lost a leader, Kobe’s friend and sidekick, as well as a first round pick. The loss of Fisher on the court does not mean much, but what he brought to the locker room and huddle cannot be stressed enough. The loss of Fisher will hurt in more ways than they realized, however they gained a player who could play a key role of the bench and could get them that much closer to a title. Grade: B+

9. Washington Wizards Receive, Nene, Brian Cook and a Second Round Draft Pick, Denver Nuggets receive, Javalle, McGee and Ronny Turiaf and Los Angeles Clippers receive, Nick Young

Washington Wizards: They trade two young and talented players, but receive a very good starting center in Nene, even though it is a five year and sixty million dollar contract they inherit. Nene instantly becomes the teams second best player, he does not have a me first mentality like Young and McGee and will be a good influence for this young team. Cook was just a throw in and will most likely be bought out or waived and the pick could help in the future. If Nene can stay healthy, this trade will work very well for the team and John Wall must be happy to finally have a reliable second option and someone to help him take control of this very young and talented team.  Grade: A-

 Denver Nuggets: They obviously were not pleased with the production Nene was giving them after signing him to a major deal and they shed were able to gain significant future cap space. They also receive a young and talented center in McGee, who will be trying out for the team, so they can decide if they should resign him long-term or let him go. Turiaf will either be waived or bought out and will not help, but overall a good trade for the team. Grade: B+

Los Angeles Clippers: They receive an instant starter and a player to replace what Billups gave them. If Young is behaving and actually passes the ball and plays a little defense, he could help them rise up the ranks in the West. The fact that it cost them just Cook and a low pick, makes this an excellent trade. Grade: A+

NBA Rookie Rankings (Irving at One)

 1. Kyrie Irving: Cleveland Cavaliers- 1^st Pick

– Irving is the runaway favorite for Rookie of the Year and it is not hard to see why. He has been better than advertised and has an outstanding offensive skill set. He is already an excellent shooter, but is also extremely gifted when it comes to getting into the paint and finishing. He has also showed top-notch distributing skills and is a true point guard. He does need to work on his defense, which was expected, but there are no real holes to his game. He has star potential and carries himself with the confidence of one. He is an all-star player, it is only of matter of when and could happen as soon as 2013.

 2. Ricky Rubio: Minnesota Timberwolves- 5^th Pick (2009)

– Ricky Rubio has somehow matched the hype that has been building up for the last three years. His passing and court vision are already at an elite level and he has a wow factor about him. He has proven to be a solid three-point and free throw shooter, however his shooting percentage has to improve.  Most shocking, has been Rubio’s defense, which has been surprisingly good. He will be among the leaders in steals and assists for years to come, however, he has hit the rookie wall as of late, which has to be discouraging for the Timberwolves. Regardless, he has an excellent future and is a young star in the making.

3. Brandon Knight: Detroit Pistons- 8^th Pick

– Everyone knew that Knight had talent, but many were unsure how NBA ready he was and if he was even a true point guard. He has answered questions on both counts and he has proven that he is more than capable as a starter in this league. He has been inconsistent from game to game, but has showed the talent to be a star. He has showed immense talent in shooting and distributing, which proves that he has what it takes to be one of the best floor leaders in the league.

 4. MarShon Brooks: New Jersey Nets- 25^th Pick

– Brooks is a pure scorer and has proven that he has what it takes to be an elite NBA guard. He has an effortless offensive game and will be a big-time producer in the league. He sits at four, since he has not shown another above average skill besides scoring, but there is still time to develop those. Regardless, he could become one of the best scorers and shooting guards in the NBA.

 5. Kemba Walker: Charlotte Bobcats- 9^th Pick

– Walker has been as advertised, both good and bad. He is an elite scorer and can distribute, but is not ready to be a full-time starting point guard. He must continue to work on his point guard skills, as his height makes being a shooting guard impossible.

6. Isiah Thomas: Sacramento Kings – 60^th Pick

– Thomas is the surprise of this draft. Mr. Irrelevant, (the last pick of the draft), has become a starter on the Kings and has been on fire recently. He has finally moved Evans to small forward, which is best for the team, as he can be a point forward a la Lebron James and Paul Pierce. The very undersized Thomas has scored in bunches and distributed when necessary.

 7.Kahwi Leonard: San Antonio Spurs- 15^th Pick

-Leonard was been in and out of the starting lineup for the Spurs, but the fact that he was starting for this veteran, contending team says a lot. He is already a very good defender, but is a much better shooter than most thought and has a very smooth offensive game. He may never be an all-star, but he is the perfect role player.

 8. Nikola Vucevic: Philadelphia 76ers- 16^th Pick

– Vucevic has been struggling with health, but has a very polished offensive game and has been a very solid spot starter with Hawes injured. His 40 minute stats are quite impressive; 15.5 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks and has proven to be a starting center in this league. To put this into perspective, all-star Roy Hibbert is averaging 17.7 points, 12.3 points and 2.17 blocks per 40 minutes.

9. Iman Shumpert: New York Knicks- 17^th Pick

-The Knicks may have already found out what most questioned when Shumpert was drafted, that he is not a point guard. With Jeremy Lin in the fold, he does not have to pretend to be a point guard and can focus on doing what he does well. He is instant offense off the bench, a great athlete and a player with great potential on defense.

10. Norris Cole: Miami Heat- 28^th Pick

– Cole, like Shumpert has proven to be an excellent backup, but the fact that he is playing a significant role on the title favorite Heat says a lot about what the players and coaches think of him. He also has the skills to be a starting point guard in the league, as he has elite speed. To become a better point guard, he needs to pass more and limit his turnovers, which is a product of his recklessly fast style of play.

 11. Enes Kanter: Utah Jazz- 3^rd Pick

– Kanter does not get the playing time he deserves, with the excellent inside depth on the Jazz. However, when in the game, he has proven to be capable of being a very good starting center in the league. He is playing well on both ends of the floor, which is increasingly impressive since he has not played real basketball in two years because of ineligibility issues in college.

12. Derrick Williams: Minnesota Timberwolves- 2^nd Pick

– Williams is an extremely talented player, but has been lost in the shuffle in Minnesota’s plethora of forwards. It is not his fault that he plays the same position as his team’s best player. He is an explosive athlete with a very fluid offensive game, he just needs more playing time, which will be hard to get on this team. It is curious that the team has not put him on the trade block, as it is difficult to believe that he can play small forward full time.

13. Chandler Parsons: Houston Rockets- 38^th Pick

– Parsons has been another big surprise, becoming a starter on the Rockets. The fact that a second round pick is starting on a playoff contender is extremely impressive. He is not the most talented of players, but he is an extremely hard worker on both ends of the court and has earned the trust of coach, Kevin Mchale.

14. Kenneth Faried: Denver Nuggets- 22^nd Pick

– One unwritten rule in basketball is that rebounding is the number one skill that translates from college to the pros and Faried, who led the nation in rebounding last season, has become another example of this fact. He has recently been given playing time and has proven to be a very good player,  an elite rebounder and instant energy.

15.Tristan Thompson: Cleveland Cavaliers- 4^th Pick

– Thompson came into the league with elite defensive potential and a growing offensive game. Should he have been the fourth overall pick? It is too early to tell, but he has already showed off his defense and rebounding and is becoming a better offensive player on a day-to-day basis. He is definitely a keeper and should be a starter as soon as the team trades Jamison.

16. Markieff Morris: Phoenix Suns- 13^th Pick

– It has been surprising that Markieff has thrived while his brother Marcus has been sent to the D-League on a regular basis. Most believed that Marcus was the better prospect and was more NBA ready than Markieff. Unlike his brother, he is a true power forward, with a blue-collar game. He has also been very effective behind the three-point line, which has been a very pleasant surprise. He is one of the only bright spots on the Suns, although more consistency would be nice.

17. Bismack Biyombo: Charlotte Bobcats- 7^th Pick

– Biyombo has been incredibly inconsistent, but has an occasional game where he has a ridiculous stat line along the lines of 10 points, 10 rebounds and 7 blocks. There are only a handful of players who can do that in this league. He is as raw as advertised, but is amazingly athletic, long and has elite, Ben Wallace level potential on defense.

 18. Gustavo Ayon: New Orleans Hornets- Undrafted (2007)

– Ayon has not had a spectacular year by any stretch of the imagination, but he has been a very solid player for the Hornets and has even made the starting lineup. The former Mexican star has a very good offensive game and even though he is 26, has room to grow.

 19. Ivan Johnson- Atlanta Hawks- Undrafted (2007)

– Johnson has come from absolutely nowhere to become a very important part of the Hawks’ rotation. Not the most skilled of players, but he is a great energy player and works hard every second while on the court.

20. Chris Singleton: Washington Wizards- 18^th Pick

– Singleton is an excellent defender, which is why he was drafted so early, however he has shown a lot on offense and is starter material in the league. He has the size and length to be an elite perimeter stopper and is on the perfect team, as he is the only one who tries on that end.

Just Missed Out: Klay Thompson (Golden State Warriors 11^th Pick), John Leuer (Milwaukee Bucks 36^th Pick), Tobias Harris (Milwaukee Bucks, 19^th Pick),  Alec Burks (Utah Jazz, 12^th Pick), Josh Harrelson (New York Knicks, 45^th Pick), Reggie Jackson (Oklahoma City Thunder, 24^th Pick), Andrew Goudelock (Los Angeles Lakers, 46^th Pick)

They’re In Trouble:

Jimmer Fredette: Sacramento Kings- 10^th Pick

– The fact that he has been beaten out by the last pick in the draft speaks levels on how he is playing. Every bad thing written about the BYU sensation has been true, no defense, bad decision making and poor shot selection. There still is hope as he is an amazing shooter and has a high basketball IQ, but his lack of athleticism and lack of point guard skills may hurt him.

Jan Vesely: Washington Wizards- 6^th Pick

– Vesely was considered the anti-European player, one who would be NBA ready because of his elite athleticism, but he has simply looked lost on the court. He has showed some positive signs, but has a long way to go if he wants to play up to his draft position.

Marcus Morris: Houston Rockets- 14^th Pick

– Wasn’t he supposed to be the better Morris twin and more NBA ready? It is true that he is on a team that is stacked at the forward slots, but he was completely beaten out by fellow rookie Chandler Parsons, in the starting lineup.

Dear NBA Stars, It is Time to Man Up and Throw Down (Dunks)

 The Slam Dunk contest used to be a superstar filled spectacle, where fans were dazzled by the best athletes in the world, showcasing their talents and genuinely relishing the whole experience. From Erving, to Michael, to Dominique, to Carter, to Howard, to Chase Budinger? Really, Chase Budinger, Paul George, Jeremy Evans and Derrick Williams is the best the league can do? If that is what the NBA has to offer fans, then why bother? When did superstars decide that they had better things to do and how did they forget that it was an honor to represent the best of the best? How did the league come to a place where their best players refuse to participate in their most exciting event? These are all honest questions that the league and players need to be asking themselves, as this has become an embarrassment.

In the past, the dunk contest showed the world, how amazing these athletes were and brought worldwide intrigue to the league. The contest made kids imagine the impossible and believe in the amazing. That is the NBA’s slogan, “Where Amazing Happens,” not where Jeremy Evans happens. It is impossible to recall a player winning this contest and having ninety percent of fans ask, who? That is right, the 2012 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest was won by a player who has played a total of 112 minutes this season and is averaging all of 1.8 points per game.

This is unacceptable and the NBA needs to save face and the superstars need to man up and realize that it is for the good of the league. If Michael Jordan participated three times, then Lebron James can do it once. Maybe this year in the baseball homerun derby, we can all witness Brett Gardner, Tony Gwynn Jr., Juan Pierre, a washed up Manny Ramirez and two minor leaguers and see if we notice. Well NBA, we did notice. Apparently watching Rajon Rondo, Deron Williams and Tony Parker dribble around cones and hitting a couple of jump shots is now more entertaining then watching people throw down dunks. This contest deserves better and we as fans deserve more.

Right now the NBA is the most athletic it has ever been and there are so many young stars who should be participating in this event. We know that Lebron refuses for whatever reason and Dwight Howard gets a pass for giving us three great years. Blake Griffin gave an amazing show last year and also can be excused, but there are so many other options. Did they ask Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose, Andre Iguodala, John Wall, Russell Westbrook, Josh Smith, Tyreke Evans, Joakim Noah, Dwayne Wade or Deandre Jordan? Did they say no? Well ask them again, these men are making millions of dollars to play the sport they love. They can take a little bit of time and participate for the good of the league in the NBA’s most cherished contest. Even ask Brian Scalabrine, at least he would have the name recognition to boost the ratings over the players this year. From the outside it seems quite puzzling that this entire list of players and more would say no. It also says a lot about the stars in today’s NBA that they would all refuse. In the last year we have gone from a player leaping a car, to a player jumping a motorcycle and we cannot have Jeremy Evans jump a scooter next year, it would be unbearable.

These just might be the ramblings of a disappointed fan, but this pathetic attempt at entertainment was a disgrace to the league and the stars should be ashamed. Regardless, at least one thing is certain, it could not possibly be as bad next year. We hope.