Grizzlies extends Green
The Memphis Grizzlies have completed a contract with JaMychal Green signing him for the remainder of season with a partial minimum guarantees the next 2 years. The extension is reportedly valued at $1.6 million.
Showing posts with label Memphis Grizzlies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Memphis Grizzlies. Show all posts
Monday, March 2, 2015
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Grizzlies re-sign Green
The Memphis Grizzlies have signed F JaMychal Green to a second 10 day contract. Green previously signed a 10 day contract with the San Antonio Spurs before his first with the Grizzlies.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Grizzlies to sign Green
The Memphis Grizzlies will sign F JaMychal Green to a 10-day contract.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Tyrus Thomas to Memphis?.....Updated
Reports show that the Memphis Grizzlies are in "serious discussions" with free agent forward Tyrus Thomas and the franchise could sign him to a 10 day contract. Thomas last played in the NBA for the then Charlotte Bobcats during the 2012-13 season and averaged 4.8 points along with 2.3 rebounds per game.
Update: The Grizzlies have officially signed Thomas to a 10 Day contract.
Update: The Grizzlies have officially signed Thomas to a 10 Day contract.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Memphis, New Orleans, Boston trade update
Trade as currently constructed:
Grizzlies to get Jeff Green
Celtics to get Tayshuan Prince, Austin Rivers and future first round pick
Pelicans to get Quincy Pondexter
Friday, January 9, 2015
Memphis to acquire Green
Boston is finalizing an agreement to send Jeff Green to the Memphis Grizzlies for Tayshaun Prince and a first-round pick.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Deng talks trade rumors
Miami Heat F Luol Deng briefly addressed the trade rumors that surfaced overnight indicating that the Memphis Grizzlies were interested in acquiring him.
“I’ve had no issues,” he said. “My whole thing this year has been trying to get it right. It’s never been that I’m unhappy. Just because there are trade rumors– I’m not the one asking for a trade… I’m not the one starting the rumors or whatever’s going on. I know just as much as you, honestly.”
Monday, December 22, 2014
Q&A: Courtney Lee
Courtesy of Slam
SLAM: Everyone around the League was watching your 3OT game with the Spurs last week. What did you learn about your guys, battling the defending champs like that for 15 extra minutes?
Courtney Lee: That game was one the craziest games I’ve been a part of. Like you said, it went to three overtimes, both teams not backing down. It showed a lot of character within our team to continue to compete, even when things weren’t going right. We’re trying to get to where the defending champs are, and that was a huge test for us. If you watched that whole game, at end of the third OT, you could see both teams meet at half-court and just congratulate each other because it was such a well-fought game.
SLAM: You’re leading the League in three-point field-goal percentage right now, connecting on a career-high 54.5 percent of your attempts from long-range. What do you attribute that effectiveness to?
Lee: I definitely put a lot of work in with our team’s shooting coach during the offseason. He gave me different workouts during the summer, and that helped me with my muscle memory. Then it’s really all about reps. In our system, we’re doing a good job of moving the ball as a team, creating good spacing, getting each other open shots. Once you get open, you have that confidence to knock it down because you know you put the work in during the offseason. So I’m just in a good rhythm right now.
SLAM: Can you talk about that Grizzlies system under Coach Joerger? You have the fourth-best record in the NBA, suffered only your sixth loss of the season to the Cavaliers on Sunday. What is coach asking of you guys on a nightly basis?
Lee: The system is pretty much a traditional system. You have two traditional bigs who can post up down low in Gasol and Randolph, and we just play inside-out. We do a good job of moving the ball, spacing and playing off them. So that opens up a lot of things. And coach is just the enforcer, making sure that we’re out there creating the correct spacing and executing. He’s really been great for us.
SLAM: Is it too early to think about how far this team can eventually go this year? What is the tone of the locker room as far as that is concerned?
Lee: Yeah, it is still early. We have six losses, and the wins are great, but we need to figure out how and why we got those six losses. We need to make those adjustments consistently, and that’s where our focus is right now in the locker room. We’re still growing as a team, and still trying to figuring it all out.
SLAM: You’ve played for a few different teams throughout your career (Magic, Nets, Rockets, Celtics) but now you’re a starter on a contending team in the Western Conference. Do you feel at home with this role in Memphis?
Lee: Yeah, I do. I think that the system really complements my game and my game complements the system. And then playing off the guys on this team, I really feel like it is a home for me in Memphis for sure.
SLAM: As a player, do you see the Western Conference as being more competitive than ever before in your career?
Lee: That’s one thing I felt when I first got to the team last year, coming over from Boston. I was like, ‘Is every game like this? This is like playoff basketball.’ And it’s been even better and more competitive this year. It’s a close race all around right now. Every game is just super intense. Like that 3OT game we were talking about, then Portland has another 3OT game with the Spurs after that. So yeah, the West has been crazy.
SLAM: The video of you guys all helping out the Memphis Grizzlies intern whose car was stolen went viral and it was a really nice thing to do. How did that come about, why did you guys want to all chip in and buy him a new car?
Lee: Brandon is just a good guy. He helps us out a lot. As far as anything we need done off the court, he’s always there to do it. And his car got stolen not too long ago, so he was walking around still doing everything that everybody was asking him to do. We just wanted to try to help him, give back as much as possible, and make this Christmas special for him because he really is a good guy.
SLAM: You’ve done some correspondent work on the music scene in the past. You’ve interviewed The Game, covered The Weekend’s concert. Who are some of the younger, newer artists you’re listening to right now?
Lee: Right now I’m listening to the new J. Cole CD. I’m more of a lyrical guy, as far as music, more of a fan of story-telling, like a Kendrick Lamar or J. Cole. I’m also listening to Lupe Fiasco, Stalley, and then a lot of the older guys too.
SLAM: I read that in high school, you were into sketch art. Have you done anything like that in a while?
Lee: I haven’t in a while, but I am capable of being artistic. The last time I was really serious about it was in high school, like you said. I had a couple of my pieces that went to the local museum. I drew one of my classmate, and the other was a drawing of like this garden scene.
SLAM: You were in Cleveland on Sunday to matchup with LeBron James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving. What is your first impression of that group, after playing the Cavaliers for the first time?
Lee: They have a great personnel there, obviously, with three All-Stars on one team. They didn’t come out to the fast start that they were hoping for this year, but they’re definitely starting to figure it out. Anytime you play against those guys, you know it will be a good battle.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Grizzlies re-sign Lucas, Whiteside
The Memphis Grizzlies have re-signed guard Kalin Lucas and center Hassan Whiteside. Lucas was signed on September 25th and averaged 3.1 points and 1.0 assists during the preseason before being waived in late October. Whiteside avenged 3.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.00 blocks on .500 shooting during his preseason audition with the franchise.
Monday, November 17, 2014
NBA Power Rankings Week 3; November 17th, 2014
It is the third week of the NBA Power Rankings, and for the
third consecutive week there is a new team sitting atop the rankings. This week
we saw some teams ascend back up towards where we originally thought they would
be, and some fall a couple of tiers because of it. Where does your favorite
team end up this week? Check out the rankings and find out!
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| Joe Robbins/Getty Images |
1. Memphis Grizzlies (9-1): They are over .500 for the third
time in the franchise’s history, and are rolling. They are currently riding a
ridiculous 19 game home winning streak. It will be put to the test right away
as the just as hot Rockets come to town Monday night.
2. Golden State
3. Houston Rockets (9-1): This is not the Rockets team we
saw last season, as they are currently leading the NBA in opponent points per
game, giving up only 88.9 points per game on 40.3 percent shooting. The light
schedule, playing only two teams thus far over .500, could have something to do
with it, as the offense is yet to really get going, scoring only 98.3 points
per game.
4. Toronto Raptors (8-2): The Raptors had a tough loss to
the Bulls on a rare TNT Thursday night game, which had to be a letdown for
followers of the team. They did pick up two victories against the Magic and
Jazz for another winning week. We will learn a lot about this Raptors team this
week, as they host the Grizzlies Wednesday before embarking on a back-to-back
starting with the Bucks at home and traveling to Cleveland
Saturday.
5. Chicago Bulls (7-3): The loss to the extremely
shorthanded Pacers isn’t the most pressing issue for the Bulls currently. It
has to the injury prone Derrick Rose still, who now is dealing with a hamstring
injury in addition to the two ankle injuries and always dangerous knees. It is
an issue the Bulls will have to deal with as long as Rose is around.
6. Washington Wizards (7-2): It may not be the prettiest
display thus far, but the Wizards have been able to get wins even without
Bradley Beal. Good news for them, Beal is expected back this week, and just in
time for a matchup with the Cavaliers. Praise should be given to Garrett
Temple, who filled in admirably for Beal while he was sidelined.
7. San Antonio Spurs (5-4): The Spurs responded basically
how you would expect them to once you drop them in power rankings; sweeping a
back-to-back against the Clippers and Warriors, both on the road. They
continued the California road
trip with a decisive victory over the Lakers, in which Kawhi Leonard again
showed off, holding Kobe Bryant to 1-14 shooting. A loss to the Kings normally
would be disappointing, but the fourth game in five nights is tough for anyone
to win.
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| Steve Dykes/Getty Images |
8. Portland Trail Blazers (7-3): It was a crazy week in the
NBA in terms of scores, and it was all kicked off by the Blazers lighting up of
the Nuggets with 84-50 halftime lead. They are currently riding an NBA-high
tying four-game winning streak, in large part to a bench that is exceeding
expectations, albeit they were low ones.
9. Dallas Mavericks (7-3): The Mavericks delivered beat downs
of epic proportions against the 76ers and Timberwolves after coming back from
an early 20+ point deficit to the Kings. The Mavericks cannot afford to get
complacent, as road games against Charlotte and Washington lead into a cupcake
against the Lakers at home. That is when it gets interesting, as Chandler
Parsons returns to Houston for the
first time in an important game against a playoff team from last season; they
are 0-3 thus far against 2014 playoff teams.
10. Los Angeles Clippers (5-3): The Clippers went 1-1 in
their short week, and their problems are as evident as ever. Doc Rivers’ hand
is being forced, as he has moved perennial Sixth Man of the Year award winner
Jamal Crawford into the starting lineup at small forward. They need to find a
way to upgrade the position, or they will continue to have early playoff exits
and waste more good seasons from Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and company.
11. New Orleans Pelicans (5-3): They lost a big-time matchup
against the Cavaliers, but responded with a closer than thought win against the
Lakers, but a dominating victory over the Timberwolves. How dominating you ask?
Franchise record level whooping. The Pelicans set franchise records for points
(139), field goals (56), shooting percentage (66.7) and 48-point victory. They
were up by as many as 53 points in the fourth quarter, and also tied a
franchise record with 15 three-pointers made.
12. Cleveland Cavaliers (5-3): Early season start is
beginning to be quelled as the Cavaliers have ripped off four-straight wins
averaging 119.25 points per game. If they are scoring at that clip, there is no
defense that will slow them down. They were lucky to escape Boston
with a victory though, as the defense does need work as they surrendered 106.75
points per game.
13. Atlanta Hawks (5-4): A four-game winning streak was
halted in excruciating fashion, as the Cavaliers blitzed the Hawks with a 9-9
three-point barrage in the opening quarter, resulting in a 127-94 blowout. Paul
Millsap has started to get things going for the Hawks though, as Kyle Korver
continues to quietly be more than a three-point specialist.
14. Sacramento Kings (6-4): The win over the Spurs over the
weekend was a nice rebound for what could have been a monster week. After
opening up 20+ point leads in the first quarter against the Mavericks and
Grizzlies, the Kings ended up losing both games. The Grizzlies one was
especially excruciating, as a blown assignment allowed for a Courtney Lee
alley-oop lay-up at the buzzer to beat them. They did lock up Rudy Gay to a
nice contract that is worth $40 million over the next three seasons.
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| Christian Peterson/Getty Images |
15. Phoenix Suns (5-5): Their homestand ended on a sour
note, as they lost to the Hornets rather handedly. Things didn’t get any better
over the weekend, as the Clippers blew them out of the Staples
Center Boston ,
Detroit , Philadelphia
and Indiana this week.
16. Miami Heat (5-5): It was a rough week for the Heat, as
they were unable to carry the momentum from their win in Dallas
over for the week. They went 0-3, losing to the Pacers, Hawks and Bucks, teams
they should be able to handle. The big problem is Dwyane Wade, who missed the
last two games of the week and is considered day-to-day and a game-time
decision at best for their matchup early in the week.
17. Milwaukee Bucks (5-5): Another impressive win this week
on the road against the Heat. Through 10 games Jason Kidd has done a solid job,
and he’s making the most of the pieces he has. Brandon Knight’s improved play
coupled with a top-two defense is enough to get this team to .500. A big matchup
this week in terms of theatrics as the Bucks visit the Nets Wednesday. Two
back-to-back sets will test this team.
18. Indiana Pacers (4-7): It was a surprisingly strong week
for the Pacers, who continue to pull out improbable performances as shorthanded
as any team not named the Thunder. Wins against the Jazz, at Miami
and at Chicago lost some of its
shine with a home blowout loss at the hands of the Nuggets, but it was a
successful week nonetheless. In a short week, Lance Stephenson’s homecoming
makes for the biggest news.
19. Charlotte Hornets (4-6): Lance Stephenson is still
struggling to find his shot, as he is shooting an underwhelming 37.5 percent
from the field. He is leading the team in rebounding and assists though, which
is a plus. Let’s see if he can turn things around scoring wise as he makes his
first visit back to Indiana to
play the Pacers.
20. Brooklyn Nets (4-5): Joe Johnson made some waves saying
that the wins in the season for the Nets don’t mean much as they played
inferior opponents. They have to pass the ball more Johnson said. He was right,
but also fell victim to trying to play hero ball as the Nets went 0-3 on their
west coast trip. The Suns loss was tough, as they were up by as many as 19
points in the first half, but their offense failed them in the second half as
the Suns came all the way back and won by eight.
21. Boston Celtics (3-5): It was a slow week for the
Celtics, who played only two games. A blowout loss at home against the Thunder
looked to be turned around with a victory over the Cavaliers later in the week.
Alas it wasn’t meant to happen, as the Celtics blew an 18-point lead in the
fourth quarter.
22. Orlando Magic (4-7): The injury bug just can’t get
enough of the young Magic. As soon as Victor Oladipo returns, rookie forward
Aaron Gordon is sidelined with a broken foot. It is a tough break for the
Magic, who are 4-3 after starting the season with four straight losses.
23. Utah Jazz (4-7): Another buzzer beater against the
Knicks saved the Jazz from a winless week. It is already the second buzzer
beater victory for the Jazz this season, as Trey Burke’s heroics against the
Knicks followed up Gordon Hayward’s against the Cavaliers just nine days
earlier.
24. Detroit Pistons (3-7): The struggles of Andre Drummond thus
far are surprising. What could be more surprising is the play of Brandon
Jennings. It was thought D.J. Augustin would eventually supplant him as the
starter, but if he continues putting up 16.2 points, 6.0 assists and a 23.6 PER
he’ll safely be in the starting lineup night in and night out.
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| Gregory Shamus/Getty Images |
25. New York Knicks (3-8): The Knicks were finally able to
end their lengthy losing streak with a victory over the Denver Nuggets Sunday
afternoon. More encouraging, Carmelo Anthony looks to be finding his footing offensively,
scoring 74 points on 26-40 shooting the last two games. Jose Calderon and
Andrea Bargnani are also expected to beginning practicing this week.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (3-8): Kevin Durant and Russell
Westbrook can’t return soon enough for the Thunder. They had a rough week,
going 1-3 and losing to the Bucks, Pistons and Rockets. Sunday’s loss to the
Rockets was especially rough, as they fell 69-65. It’s arguable that Durant and
Westbrook could have beaten that total by themselves.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves (2-7): Currently riding the
longest losing streak in the NBA by a team not named the 76ers. Can’t say Ricky
Rubio would have helped much this past week, as the Timberwolves surrendered 127.6
points per game this week, giving up 131 and 139 to the Pelicans and Mavericks
respectively. That has a hand in the T’Wolves giving up the most points per
game in the NBA thus far this season.
28. Denver Nuggets (2-7): A blowout victory over the Pacers
was sandwiched by two shellackings at the hands of the Trail Blazers and
Knicks. It got really ugly against the Knicks, as they didn’t make a basket the
whole quarter until the final buzzer. Shaw’s seat is getting hotter, if that
was even possible.
29. Los Angeles Lakers (1-9): If there is another game like
Sunday, they will no longer be known as the Lakers and instead called the Los
Angeles Kobes. The Warriors thumped them, 136-115 as the Lakers were
embarrassed. Kobe Bryant, who only played in the first three quarters, scored
44 points on 34 shot attempts. He just isn’t getting any help.
30. Philadelphia 76ers (0-9): Michael Carter-Williams returned to the lineup right in time for
one of the worst defeats in the history of the NBA. The 76ers got destroyed by
the Mavericks 123-70, as they were down 73-29 at halftime. They showed a lot of
heart the next night though, falling one point short to the Houston Rockets.
The tank is in.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Monday, November 10, 2014
NBA Power Rankings Week 2: November 10th, 2014
It is only Week 2 of the NBA Power Rankings, but there are already some surprises at the top of the rankings. There was a lot of movement after Week 1, as plenty of teams made big leaps and bounds, while others plummeted like rocks in the ocean. Check out this week's power rankings and don't hesitate to leave comments letting us know how we did, even if you agree or think we are way off.
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| Erza Shaw/Getty Images |
1. Golden State
2. Houston Rockets (6-1): While the schedule has been soft
thus far for the Rockets, they are not choosing who to play against. They are
beating who is put in front of them, and doing it easily. They have an NBA high
11.0 point differential per game on the season, winning their games by an
average of 13 points per game; they have yet to win a game by less than 11.
3. Toronto Raptors (6-1): The Raptors are as hot as any team
in the NBA right now. A perfect 4-0 week with three victories all easily into
double-digits. This is a team to keep an eye on as they could really make some
noise in the Eastern Conference this season.
4. Memphis Grizzlies (6-1): Not many people envisioned their
first loss being to the Bucks I’m sure, but that is a little hiccup for the
Grizzlies who are rolling. They handled the Pelicans and Suns with relative
ease, and will look to continue building the wins with a homestand this week.
5. Miami Heat (5-2): Chris Bosh is turning the clock back to
Raptors’ Bosh, as he is averaging 23.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.0 assists and
1.14 steals per game. Those are outstanding numbers, and there is no reason
they will slow down. They had a letdown in a big matchup against the Rockets to
start the week, and lost to the Hornets, but bounced back nicely with a win
against the Timberwolves and an impressive one at Dallas .
6. Chicago Bulls (5-2): A loss to the Celtics is
disappointing, especially when they played without Rajon Rondo. But it was the
fourth game in five nights, so they can get a little slack. Derrick Rose once
again is questionable because of ankle injuries, but the team is looking solid
as they have gotten used to playing without Rose.
7. Los Angeles Clippers (4-2): They won their home games
against the Jazz and Blazers but got destroyed on the road by the Warriors.
This is a team that just isnt clicking yet, as shooting woes has been evident.
They have a short week with only two games, but they are important ones Monday
against the Spurs and Saturday against the Suns.
8. Sacramento Kings (5-2): Taking a home and home with the
Nuggets to start the week only got better with an overtime road victory over
the Suns. What made the OT victory so impressive was it was without DeMarcus
Cousins, and we even saw Cousins being the level-headed one in an exchange. A
loss Sunday to the Thunder is a slight disappointment, but OKC still holds a
legitimate home court advantage that will help get them some wins.
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| Rob Carr/Getty Images |
9. Washington Wizards (5-2): They’re beating who they are
supposed to, but again put up a clunker against a strong opponent. This week it
was the Raptors filling that role, blowing the Wizards out of the water by 19.
It’s a short week for the Wizards, who play only Wednesday against the Pistons
and Saturday against the Magic.
10. San Antonio Spurs (2-3): Not ready to drop them out of
the top-10. This week that could change though, as they play the Clippers,
Warriors and Kings all this week. Wins this week will catapult them up the
rankings, or plummeting down as the early season results haven’t been what we
expected.
11. Phoenix Suns (4-3): Add another tally to the impressive
win category for the Suns, who knocked off the Warriors, giving them their
first loss of the season. The Suns continue to be one of the most exciting
teams to watch. That lineup with three point guards is something, but shows the
dangers; had Andre Iguodala been able to take advantage of Isaiah Thomas, that
game could have looked much different.
12. Portland Trail Blazers (4-3): Nicolas Batum suffered a
knee injury, but it does not look serious right now. They had a strong week
though, blowing out the Cavaliers, Mavericks and Nuggets with relative ease.
They fell in a much anticipated matchup with the Clippers, but they look to be
turning things around; namely Damian Lillard, whose early season shooting woes
look to be behind him now.
13. Dallas Mavericks (4-3): Pretty decisive losses at the
hands of the Blazers and Heat have knocked the Mavericks down a little bit.
Something to watch for when they start the week against Kings on Tuesday is
Dirk Nowitzki’s scoring output. He is only 17 points behind Hakeem Olajuwon
ninth-place on the all-time scoring list.
14. New Orleans Pelicans (3-2): A big time matchup Monday
will showcase Anthony Davis against LeBron James. Davis
has started the season on pace for one of the best in recent NBA history. As
long as he is healthy they will give teams fits; ask the Spurs. Tyreke Evans,
Jrue Holiday and Ryan Anderson are strong complementary pieces.
15. Brooklyn Nets (4-2): As long as Brook Lopez and Deron
Williams are in the lineup, this is a dangerous team. The question is how long
will they both be? Joe Johnson continues to quietly do about his business as
well as a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.
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| Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images |
16. Utah Jazz (3-4): The Jazz provided some memorable games
this past week. They hung tough with the Clippers in Los
Angeles , and then pulled off an improbable win with a
Gordon Hayward buzzer beater to sink the Cavaliers. A blowout loss in Dallas
was quickly recovered from with a come from behind win in Detroit .
Good start to a five-game Eastern Conference trip.
17. Cleveland Cavaliers (2-3): In the running for most
surprising start. With all that talent, losses are hard to imagine seeing. It
happens, but losing at the buzzer in Utah
is not how you would envision it. All talk about Kyrie Irving and LeBron James
budding heads was put to rest a bit with a win over the Nuggets. The Cavaliers
now leave Cleveland only two more
times in November, which could jump start the season.
18. Boston Celtics (3-3): The Celtics were getting knocked
back down to earth to start the week after a strong opening night. But they
bounced back beating the Pacers at home but more impressively knocking off the
Bulls, in Chicago nonetheless. Oh,
forgot to mention also the win in Chicago
was without Rajon Rondo.
19. Atlanta Hawks (2-3): They played it tough with the
defending champs, and followed that up with another tough loss in double-OT to
the Hornets. But for like many teams in the recent history, a visit by the
Knicks got them back on track. They’ll look to take a home-and-home with the
Knicks Monday before hosting the Jazz and Heat and traveling to visit the
Cavaliers.
20. Charlotte Hornets (3-4): Giving the Lakers their first
win of the season is never a positive. It is a disappointing finish to what was
looking like a strong week, as the Hornets picked up a double-OT victory over
the Hawks and beat the Heat. That was a nice response to a loss to another
up-and-coming team, the Pelicans, on Tuesday.
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| Streeter Lecka/Getty Images |
21. Milwaukee Bucks (3-4): A road victory in Indiana
is nice, even with how poor the roster looks right now is a good win for the
Bucks. The victory against the Grizzlies, their first of the season, is the
impressive feat this week for the Bucks. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored a
career-high in the game as well, getting people excited once again for the
“Greek Freak”.
22. Oklahoma City Thunder (2-5): They’re still playing
extremely short-handed, and without their top guns wins will be a struggle to
come by. A close call with the Grizzlies and a victory over the upstart Kings
put a little better end to a week that saw two blowout losses at the hands of
the Nets and Raptors.
23. Detroit Pistons (2-4):
It wasn’t a busy week for the Pistons, but back-to-back 98-95 wins over
the Knicks and Bucks gave them their first weeks of the season. It would have
been three in a row if they hadn’t blown a double-digit lead against the Jazz
Sunday. That will peeve Stan Van Gundy for a little while, but they look much
better in Week 2 than Week 1.
24. Orlando Magic (2-5): Another young team that is worth
tuning into League Pass Toronto
and New York before hosting the
Bucks and traveling to Washington D.C.
25. New York Knicks (2-5): The good vibes from a win in Cleveland
followed with a defeat of the Hornets is gone. The Knicks are now riding a
four-game losing streak in large part because Carmelo Anthony’s shot is not
working right now. That, and also the team lacks energy and effort on a
consistent basis; not talk you want to hear two weeks into the season.
26. Minnesota Timberwolves (2-5): The Ricky Rubio injury is
a big loss for this team, as he had been playing great ball. They did have a
nice win in Brooklyn , but there may not be many wins for
them this season. But they will be a team to check in on NBA
League Pass
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| Stephen Dunn/Getty Images |
27. Los Angeles Lakers (1-5): The Lakers were able to get
their first win of the season Sunday over the Hornets. Who is happier about
that, people associated with the Lakers, their fans, or Charles Barkley?
28. Indiana Pacers (1-6): They won opening night and it has
been losing ever since. Their return to Miami
Wednesday just does not have the same feel as it should with so many injuries
and defections from last season’s playoff series. The guys are fighting hard,
but playing without so many starters from last season is a formula for any team
to lose.
29. Denver Nuggets (1-5): Is it far to say that Bryan Shaw
may have the hottest seat in the NBA? The Nuggets are a disjointed team right
now with a head coach that has no idea how who to play and when. This is a bad
team going nowhere fast with an east coast trip this week.
30. Philadelphia 76ers (0-7): When you are the last remaining winless team in the NBA, the
cellar is your spot. This season isn’t about wins and losses for the 76ers
though, as they are looking to develop young talent. One person who has stood
out thus far in K.J. McDaniels, who is providing young Dwyane Wade-like
defensive stats, and is shooting the ball better than people thought he would.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Tony Allen Fined
Memphis Grizzlies G Tony Allen has been fined $15,000 for intentionally striking a camera during the franchises 93-81 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday.
Grizzlies add backcourt depth
The Memphis Grizzlies have signed G Kalin Lucas. Lucas has spent the last three Summer Leagues with the San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, and the Grizzlies who initially waived the guard on October 25th. Due to the uncertainty of Mike Conley's ankle, Lucas was re-signed.
Monday, November 3, 2014
NBA Power Rankings Week 1: November 3rd, 2014
The first week of the NBA season is in the books, and it did
not disappoint. There were exciting games already to watch and impressive
individual performances that are catching the attention of the national media
and even the casual fan. With that also comes the NBA power rankings. It is
early, but they still need to be done as there are some early season moves and
droppers that people will be surprised to see.
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| Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images |
1. San Antonio Spurs (1-1): The loss in Phoenix
with Kawhi Leonard returning the lineup is not enough to knock the defending
champs out of the top spot. They will be here until further notice.
2. Dallas Mavericks (2-1): Only challenger for the top spot
after going to the buzzer with the Spurs in their home opener. The Mavericks
are rolling, currently the highest scoring team in the NBA. They added talent
this offseason with Chandler Parsons and Tyson Chandler and they look right at
home next to Dirk Nowitzki and Monta Ellis.
3. Golden State
4. Memphis Grizzlies (3-0): The Grizzlies had their
prototypical game against the Hornets Saturday winning 71-69. It is the type of
game they have built their reputation on. The Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph
tandem is looking nice once again, as the tandem is averaging 44.3 points and
20.3 rebounds per game. They will have a busy week hosting Anthony Davis then
traveling to Phoenix , Oklahoma Milwaukee .
5. Miami Heat (3-0): They had some benefits in the first
week, as the Wizards were without Bradley Beal and Nene, and they also got the
Raptors at home with a trip to Philadelphia
sandwiched in-between. But they do not make the schedule, and won all the games
they were asked to play. That undefeated record will be put to the test this
week as they will host the Rockets and Timberwolves, and travel to Charlotte
and Dallas.
6. Houston Rockets (3-0): The Rockets took advantage of an
east early season slate, winning every game easily by double-digits. Things
will ratchet up for the Rockets this week, especially if Dwight Howard is
forced to miss any time after banging knees this weekend.
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| Jason Miller/Getty Images |
7. Cleveland Cavaliers (1-1): The Cavaliers put up a dud in
their home opener. Losing to the Knicks, who were on a back-to-back after
getting embarrassed in their own home opener by the Bulls is as bad as it
sounds. LeBron and company have some work to do, but did beat the Bulls in the
round robin the Cavaliers, Knicks and Bulls started the season in.
8. Chicago Bulls (2-1): They hammered the Knicks opening night,
and then got beat by the Cavaliers in overtime. The wins and losses at this
point are not of the utmost importance. Derrick Rose is who is already missing
games because of two twisted ankles. Yes, he twisted both ankles. He just
cannot stay healthy, even though he says he can play the team is being overly
cautious, and rightfully so, as he is injured.
9. Los Angeles Clippers (2-1): Easily the most
underachieving team in the first week of the season. They played close games
with the Oklahoma City Thunder sans Kevin Durant and then Russell Westbrook,
then beat the Lakers by only seven. They followed that up with a loss to the
Kings. That game Wednesday in Golden State
10. New York Knicks (2-1): Derek Fisher is getting the most
out of a roster that many people thought to be extremely flawed. He is using
the depth he has to his advantage, playing anywhere from 10-12 players a night.
It is working, as the Knicks knocked off the Cavaliers and Hornets after a
disappointing home and season opener. Things are looking up for the Knicks, but
they have a busy week ahead. The Knicks are set to play four games in five
nights against teams they will be fighting for playoff spots in the Eastern
Conference in the Wizards, Pistons, Nets and Hawks.
11. Toronto Raptors (2-1): The Raptors hurt themselves
against the Heat, missing 15 free throws and shooting 25 percent from the foul
line. It will disappoint some people, but they showed they belong and will
challenge for a top three seed in the East most likely after the Cavaliers and
Bulls.
12. Phoenix Suns (2-1): Isaiah Thomas is fitting in nicely
with the Suns, as he Goran Dragic and Eric Bledsoe finished out the game
together in a victory over the Spurs. The good feelings from that game were quickly
washed away though as the Suns lost to the Jazz, albeit in a back-to-back.
13. Washington Wizards (2-1): After a season opening defeat
at the hands of the Heat, the Wizards pulled off two victories over the Magic
and Bucks. They need to continue winning the ones they are expected to win
until Bradley Beal returns and Nene gets healthy. Paul Pierce looks to be
fitting in quite well.
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| Stephen Dunn/Getty Image |
14. Sacramento Kings (2-1): Arguably the best start to the
season goes to the Kings. Rudy Gay and DeMarcus Cousins look determined to
carry over their success from the summer with team USA .
Could this be this season’s Suns from 2013-14? If Gay and Cousins continue
playing like they did this weekend it could happen.
15. Portland Trail Blazers (1-2): Damian Lillard’s slow start
is a big reason the Blazers sit where they do currently at 1-2. A rough
Halloween weekend saw the Blazers lose to the Kings and Warriors. Things won’t
get easier this week as they host the Cavaliers, Mavericks before traveling to Los
Angeles to take on the Clippers in the first night of
a back-to-back before hosting the Nuggets.
16. Atlanta Hawks (1-1): Kyle Korver is lighting it up from
deep, and Al Horford looks good in his return from injury. Traveling to San
Antonio will be tough, but important games at Charlotte
and hosting the Knicks, important Eastern Conference games that will impact the
playoff race at the end of the season.
17. New Orleans Pelicans (1-1): Anthony Davis is a monster.
That is all you need to know about the Pelicans, as Davis
has averaged 28.5 points, 16.5 rebounds and 6.0 blocks per game. Tyreke Evans
has also looked great after hamstring woes in the preseason, scoring and
handling the ball plenty.
18. Brooklyn Nets (1-1): Brook Lopez makes his much
anticipated return to the court Monday against the Oklahoma City Thunder. It is
a much needed boost for the Nets as they got hammered by the Celtics opening
night, but bounced back with a victory over the hapless Pistons.
19. Oklahoma City Thunder (1-2): Already without Kevin Durant,
they will now be without Russell Westbrook who hurt his hand opening night.
This leaves us with the Perry Jones show, who has looked outstanding. It will
be interesting to see if Jones, Reggie Jackson and Serge Ibaka can carry the
offensive load and keep the team afloat without their two All-Pros
20. Denver Nuggets (1-1): They lost to the Thunder in their
first game without Durant and Westbrook, which doesn’t look good. They have a
home-and-home with the Kings to start the week and a visit from LeBron Friday
night before traveling to Portland .
Interesting tidbit, the Nuggets are actually 12-8 all time against LeBron. Will
that success continue?
21. Utah Jazz (1-2): Beating the Suns was a nice win. Alex
Burks looks very impressive and worth every penny of the extension he signed
recently. He and Gordon Hayward make an impressive duo on the wing, with
Derrick Favors playing well in the paint. The Jazz, along with the Kings, are a
candidate to be this season’s Suns.
22. Charlotte Hornets (1-2): They could easily be 0-3 if not
for the Bucks squandering a 20+ point lead and losing it in halftime thanks to
some Kemba Walker heroics. An ugly game against the Grizzlies that saw Lance
Stephenson benched wasn’t helped any with a loss at MSG to the Knicks to end the
week. This team has a couple things to work out before leaping the Heat and
Wizards in that division.
23. Boston Celtics (1-1): Rajon Rondo made a surprising
return to start the season, and the Celtics used it to power themselves to a
decisive win over the Nets opening night. They came crashing back down to earth
against the Rockets in the second game of the season, getting beaten easily. As
long as Rondo is around they have a chance in each game, but it could just be
to raise his trade value.
24. Indiana Pacers (1-2): The Pacers have a legitimate
chance to go into Week 3 with a .500 record, which would be impressive since
they are playing without four starters from last season. Getting the 76ers,
Bucks and Celtics in the first two weeks helps, but it is what the shorthanded
Pacers need. Roy Hibbert though has looked strong in three games.
25. Minnesota Timberwolves (1-2): The Timberwolves had a
successful week even though they lost twice. They hung tough with the superior
Grizzlies and Bulls, and beat the Pistons. They could have easily beaten the
Bulls had Andrew Wiggins not committed a bad foul on Jimmy Butler, who sank two
free throws to win the game. This season could be a little better for the
Timberwolves than originally thought.
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| Streeter Lecka/Getty Images |
26. Milwaukee Bucks (1-2): The Bucks blew a 20+ point lead
in Charlotte opening night, or else
they would be looking at a 2-1 record. Jason Kidd has plenty of decisions to
make regarding this roster, as they have logjams at plenty of spots. One player
who has stood out is O.J. Mayo, who looks to have come back in much better
shape, and his good play from preseason is carrying over.
27. Orlando Magic (0-3): Nikola Vucevic has been a monster
thus far this season. He already has a 23 rebound game this season, and has
looked strong in the paint for the young Magic. Elfrid Payton has looked good
thus far running the show, and once Victor Oladipo gets back they will form a
young, dynamic backcourt that will be plenty of fun to watch.
28. Detroit Pistons (0-3): Stan Van Gundy is at a loss with
this roster. It is mismatched as their three best players cannot share the
court together, and the offense is a mess. It could be a long first season in Detroit
for Van Gundy until he can really start piecing together this roster. Andre Drummond
will be fun to watch under Van Gundy, but he has to fix his foul woes.
29. Philadelphia
76ers (0-3): There won’t be many wins in Philadelphia
this season, but this a fun team to watch nonetheless. Expect plenty of high
scoring affairs, and it is always fun watching younger players get a chance to
play without limitations or veterans blocking them from minutes.
30. Los Angeles Lakers (0-4): Things are ugly in Los
Angeles
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