Overtime Bull Run [44-15]

[Thierry •]

Nice to see Big Ben playing here

[Axel.]

I really have to do lot's of reading on this!!

Oh, 11 points in the game. Not bad,not bad at all virtual me. Keep up!

Bucks didn't get much help from their starting unit so their bench had to bail them out. You were the leading scorer off the bench.

man i missed quite alot! Lakers eh, not bad starting for the team, anyways glad to see it still going, gonna start reading everything i missed now

Good to see you back. I was wondering what had happened to you and how you would react to being on the Lakers. They chased a point guard in the draft and you were the best available when they picked. I think you are second among rookies and scoring so far, and first in assists and steals.

Nice to see Big Ben playing here

I think he should just retire.

I'll hopefully be able to get one more week and one more round of the NLSC Tournament posted before Christmas break is over.

[Lamrock]

It's early, but it looks like a championship year if you can stay healthy.

[hova-]

Never thought of Detroit as a small market ... still great wins.

[Axel.]

Part I

[17-5] Houston Rockets 94-96 Chicago Bulls [13-9]


Kevin Martin double posterizes Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer. | Nobody else backed up Martin in scoring in this game.

Derrick Rose didn't play like his usual self this game, but he did notch a double-double. | Boozer hitting the game-winning free throws.

"One of the more exciting games the Rockets have had in recent weeks," were the words of commentator Marv Albert after the TNT broadcast of this game.

And true to that, neither team got a hold of a double-digit lead this game, and there were many lead changes throughout the course of this one. Houston started the game off well going on a 10-2 run midway through the first period as they were led by Luis Scola who scored eight points in the period. Chicago answered with a three-pointer by Kyle Korver, and Luol Deng helped to give the Bulls the lead at the end of the period. Kevin Martin took some time to get into it as he was held to 2/6 shooting and seven points in the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Yao Ming became the go-to-guy as he scored Houston's first six points in the period, as both teams continued to trade blows. Deng had an unreal first half as he had 14 points on 6/7 shooting at halftime, but despite that, Houston had a slight one point lead at the break.

After a rough start to the second half, Coach Rick Adelman subbed in Martin and he went to work immediately. He scored 14 points in the third quarter alone, knocking down a couple of three-pointers and did not allow Chicago to stretch their lead. An emphatic alley-oop slam by Martin gave the Rockets the lead again 66-65, and it was a lead they would hold for the next handful of minutes.

For the Bulls, Deng continued to score at an extremely efficient pace, with his shooting numbers amounting to 11/12, good for 24 points going into the fourth quarter. He however, would slow down in the final period, one that came down to the wire.

The Rockets got a hold of a seven point lead in the fourth, but behind Taj Gibson, who scored 16 points off the bench, the Bulls came stampeding back. Korver gave the Bulls the lead with a three, 90-89, and after a forced turnover, Derrick Rose finished a breakaway slam to make it 92-89. Just when it seemed the game had a momentum swing, Martin answered back with an emphatic one-handed jam plus the foul on Deng and Boozer. Martin made the free throw to tie it at 92.

With a minute and a half left in the game, Martin made an uncontested layup to put the Rockets up 94-92, as the Bulls called a timeout. On the next possession, Rose made a tough fadeaway jumpshot to tie the game, but the Rockets could not convert on their next possession. After another timeout, Boozer drove in on Scola and was fouled. He made both free throws to give the Bulls a two point lead.

Off a timeout, Martin was given the ball. He got the mismatch he wanted with Joakim Noah in front of him. He got enough space for a decent jumpshot but got the unlucky bounce at the buzzer as Chicago held on to steal a win on the road from Houston.

Notes: Chicago's offense was superior to that of Houston's this game. The Bulls shot 50% and had 28 assists and also won the battle on the glass 47-37. Houston shot 42% against the best defensive team in the league, and had a sub-par 18 assists. Houston however, forced the turnovers as they had 14 steals, 15 turnovers forced from Chicago.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 33 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 4 steals, 11/23 FG, 2/3 3P, 9/9 FT
Courtney Lee - 12 points, 1 rebound, 1 block, 5/8 FG, 2/3 3P
Luis Scola - 12 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal, 6/16 FG
Yao Ming - 10 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, 5/12 FG
Kyle Lowry - 10 points, 5 assists, 3 steals, 4/7 FG

Bulls:
Luol Deng - 26 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 12/18 FG
Taj Gibson - 16 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 7/12 FG
Carlos Boozer - 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 5/10 FG, 4/4 FT
Derrick Rose - 14 points, 11 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 7/14 FG
Kyle Korver - 8 points, 1 rebound, 3/5 FG, 2/2 3P
Joakim Noah - 8 points, 13 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, 1 block, 3/9 FG

23 25 27 19 94
25 22 25 24 96

[17-6] Houston Rockets 114-90 Golden State Warriors [13-8]


Courtney Lee has had a great week so far. | Dorell Wright doing things for Golden State.

After what was seen in the first quarter, it was speculated that this would be another exciting game at the Toyota Center. Kevin Martin got off to a good start scoring 17 points in the quarter, 24 for the half. Monta Ellis provided for the Warriors' side as he had nine points in the first period, but Houston edged out Golden State for a five point lead at the end of one.

In the second quarter, Houston pulled away towards a double digit lead, going up 45-32 during a three-minute scoring drought from Golden State. They gave it an effort, but the Warriors were down 15 at the half, and things only got worse in the second half.

Houston wrecked Golden State on the boards 61-41, shooting 48% from the field and hitting 18/19 of their free throws. Golden State shot just 39% from the field, not really their usual selves.

"It was a bad night all around. The shots weren't falling and we weren't communicating well. They had us beat on both ends of the floor and hopefully we'll be able to come back next time with more willpower," Warriors Head Coach Keith Smart said.

Martin was the high point man with 32 points on 12/23 shooting, while Dorell Wright top scored for Golden State with 20 points, and showing some defense with three steals and two blocks. Yao Ming had his best game of the season thus far with a double-double of 20 points and 12 rebounds, an effort that was lacking last game against Chicago but appreciated all the same.

To cap off the week, Houston will visit Denver and then come back home for a quick pit stop against San Antonio before going on a West Coast road trip, where they will be facing the Warriors again.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 32 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 12/23 FG, 2/3 3P, 6/7 FT
Yao Ming - 20 points, 12 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 9/13 FG
Luis Scola - 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4/9 FG, 6/6 FT
Kyle Lowry - 12 points, 8 assists, 1 rebound, 6/13 FG
Courtney Lee - 9 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, 4/8 FG

Warriors:
Dorell Wright - 20 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks, 9/16 FG, 2/4 3P
Monta Ellis - 15 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, 7/22 FG
Stephen Curry - 13 points, 15 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, 4/16 FG, 4/4 FT
David Lee - 12 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 6/13 FG
Enes Kanter - 11 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 5/12 FG

31 29 25 29 114
26 19 23 22 90

[Axel.]

It's early, but it looks like a championship year if you can stay healthy.

Definitely. The way Martin's been anchoring the offense, a championship is definitely feasible.

Never thought of Detroit as a small market ... still great wins.

Thanks. Detroit really isn't a small market, yet not as big as LA or Chicago or New York or maybe even Houston. I just couldn't think of a better title.

Next will hopefully be the second round of the NLSC Tournament. Just wanna wish everyone an early Happy New Year because I might not be able to log on to the forums until then.

[karlsanada10]

Advanced Happy new year Axel. And tough loss with the bulls.

[Axel.]

It was a close one, but we got back on track by running over the Warriors. Should hopefully finish off the week and get the next round of the NLSC Tournament posted tomorrow.

[hova-]

Happy new year, tough loss vs the Bulls. Problem is, they can hurt you in so many way, even with Rose having an underwhelming night.

[rise]

Deng had a LeBron-like night against you. Similar stats and only two points in the fourth quarter.

[Thierry •]

Courtney Lee helping He hasn't played this year, right?

[Axel.]

Part II

[18-6] Houston Rockets 102-104 Denver Nuggets [19-6]


Martin continuing to thwart any defense that gets in his way. | Terrence Williams with the sweet reverse layup.

Wilson Chandler taking the leading role for Denver this game. | But Nene took over in the fourth quarter.

Both teams were relatively even in terms of offense the entire game. Houston shot 47% from the field while Denver shot 46%. They both held on to the ball as they each had less than 10 turnovers, but something one can point to is Denver's ability to get to the foul line and knock down their free throws. The Nuggets went 20/25 from the charity stripe while Houston struggled early on with free throws starting 3/6 in the first quarter and ending up 15/21. While the percentages aren't far off, if Houston had just knocked down a couple more of their free throws the game could have been tied or at least gone another way.

After a high scoring third quarter, Denver got into a roll in the fourth quarter, as Nene scored eight of his 20 points in that period. He was one of three Denver players to reach the 20 mark, as Wilson Chandler (22) and Danilo Gallinari (20) joined him in that rank. Denver's offense ultimately outmatched Houston's as they won the game simply by just outscoring them seeing as how neither team played much defense in the second half.

For Houston, Kevin Martin top scored once again with 33 points on 14/21 shooting. He was accompanied in scoring by Yao Ming and Kyle Lowry with 14 and 13 respectively.

The score reached 104-99 for Denver before Martin scored a final three-pointer with time running out. The Nuggets' lead over the Rockets for top of the West increases, as they move up to 20-6. Houston will go back home to compete with the division rivals, the San Antonio Spurs.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 33 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, 14/21 FG, 2/3 3P, 3/5 FT
Yao Ming - 14 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, 7/12 FG
Kyle Lowry - 13 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 4/9 FG, 4/4 FT
Courtney Lee - 10 points, 6 rebounds, 4/7 FG, 3/7 3P
Aaron Brooks - 8 points, 4 assists, 2/6 FG, 4/6 FT
Luis Scola - 8 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 3/10 FG

Nuggets:
Wilson Chandler - 22 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 10/18 FG
Nene - 20 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block, 7/16 FG, 6/6 FT
Danilo Gallinari - 20 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 8/13 FG, 3/4 FT
Raymond Felton - 13 points, 11 assists, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, 5/14 FG, 3/4 FT
Arron Afflalo - 10 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 4/7 FG, 2/2 3P

29 22 27 24 102
26 24 27 27 104

[18-7] Houston Rockets 107-98 San Antonio Spurs [13-13]


With Christmas drawing near, Kyle Lowry is in the mood for giving. | Shane Battier's contribution can be easily overlooked.

Using crafty moves, Tim Duncan found ways to get easy points all game. | It "snowed" threes for Manu Ginobili.

This wasn't the back and forth game that we saw in Denver, but it was still competitive in its own right. Shane Battier started by scoring the first five points for Houston, and he would finish with 11 points on 5/7 shooting, definitely a plus for the Rockets considering his sub-par play in recent games. When it seemed like Houston would edge San Antonio for a bigger lead, they would answer right back. Houston had a six-point lead at the end of one, despite the fact that San Antonio had 10 free throw attempts in the quarter.

Free throws was a big letdown for the Spurs. In the first quarter they hit just 5/10 attempts, and 19/30 (63%) for the game. Houston would race out to a 16 point lead in the second quarter, leading by as many as 18.

With a 16 point margin to overcome, San Antonio had a magical run in the third quarter. They began the quarter on a 12-4 run which was ignited by back-to-back threes by Manu Ginobili. Ginobili had 22 points on the game but on a low 7/21 shooting. San Antonio would go on to score 34 points for the quarter, down by five going into the fourth.

It was seemingly an inevitable comeback for the Spurs, but Courtney Lee made them think twice about that. He scored eight straight points for the Rockets, finishing with 11 points off the bench. That surge was what helped the Rockets slam the door on the Spurs, as Kevin Martin kept them at bay with his game and season high 37 points.

Not to be left out is Tim Duncan, who compared with Martin in scoring with 36 of his own, and he did it on 16/23 shooting. The Spurs came to within seven with a few minutes left, but Houston held on to prevent another disappointing loss.

Notes: Houston shot 48% from the field, San Antonio shot 45%. There was a lot of ball movement with Houston edging San Antonio in the assists department 27-24. Houston took advantage of their free throws going 18/21. Three pointers were essential for the Spurs as they went 7/15 from downtown compared to 7/19 by Houston.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 37 points, 3 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, 11/20 FG, 2/5 3P, 13/13 FT
Yao Ming - 14 points, 13 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 7/11 FG
Courtney Lee - 11 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 5/11 FG
Luis Scola - 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block, 3/11 FG
Shane Battier - 11 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 5/7 FG
Kyle Lowry - 7 points, 9 assists, 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 3/9 FG

Spurs:
Tim Duncan - 36 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 3 blocks, 16/23 FG, 4/5 FT
Manu Ginobili - 22 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 block, 7/21 FG, 5/11 3P, 3/4 FT
Gary Neal - 8 points, 2 assists, 1 rebound, 2/3 FG/3P
Tony Parker - 8 points, 12 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, 4/5 FG
George Hill - 7 points, 1 assist, 2 steals, 2/5 FG, 3/6 FT

29 27 23 28 107
23 17 32 24 98

[Axel.]

Happy new year, tough loss vs the Bulls. Problem is, they can hurt you in so many way, even with Rose having an underwhelming night.

Yep. Deng's big shooting was what kept them in the game, and they somehow found a way to survive in the fourth quarter.

Deng had a LeBron-like night against you. Similar stats and only two points in the fourth quarter.

How true, but nobody will get on Deng for not having a fourth quarter.

Courtney Lee helping He hasn't played this year, right?

He's played every game this year, it's just that he's been under the radar and consistent (around 7-8 points every game) all season long. I really like to see him scoring that much though since Scola was shit these past couple of games.

[rise]

Not every day you get to see K-Mart posterize Nene. I liked that pic.

[karlsanada10]

Wait, did you just sweep the Spurs this season?:))

Kevin Martin for MVP and scoring leader.xD

[Thierry •]

He's played every game this year, it's just that he's been under the radar and consistent (around 7-8 points every game) all season long. I really like to see him scoring that much though since Scola was shit these past couple of games.

I meant in real life, my bad. Is he injured?

[hova-]

Wow, Denver's really doing well. Tough to see that you've basically lost that game because of your weakness from the line ... Somehow I have the same problem over and over again. Either I shoot ridiculously well from the stripe (like .90) or I just can't hit shit and go below .500.

Anyways, at least a win against the Spurs.

[rise]

He's played every game this year, it's just that he's been under the radar and consistent (around 7-8 points every game) all season long. I really like to see him scoring that much though since Scola was shit these past couple of games.

I meant in real life, my bad. Is he injured?

I think he was actually injured yesterday.

[Axel.]

Chapter 24 - Suspect In Our Midst

Christmas was about a week away and the spirit was definitely there at Rockets headquarters. Employees wore cozy winter clothes and Christmas hats while decorations of reindeer, snowmen, and Christmas lights were found in almost every room and office of the headquarters.

One person whose face didn't show any Christmas spirit, was that of Axel Gomez, the interim General Manager of the Houston Rockets franchise. He was worn out from all the madness of his duties, whether it was scheduling halftime shows for home games to overseeing the team practices, it had been a very stressful month for the young GM.

At ten o' clock and on the verge of calling it a day, Axel had fallen asleep on his desk in the GM's office. He had been out of it for about twenty minutes, and he had even began to drool on the abundance of papers lying around unwanted on his desk. He had just finished talking with the Phoenix Suns, the Los Angeles Clippers, the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Orlando Magic; he was looking for a way to unload some players out of the roster, most importantly Aaron Brooks and Chase Budinger.

"On one hand, Brooks is a very quick and young point guard and an excellent shooter. Someone who can take over the scoring load for a young team such as my Wolves. A valuable asset and an expiring contract this year. However, I have begun to realize the logjam I've caused at that position on this roster and am not eager to unload players from another position to add to that logjam. Thank you for the offer, but no thank you," Timberwolves GM David Kahn had told him in response to his offer of Aaron Brooks and Chase Budinger for Darko Milicic and a first round draft pick for next year. "And in addition, I like what Darko brings to the table," he added.

That had been the last straw, and in frustration, Axel had put his head down and snoozed away, willing to get away from the stress he had had the past month.

Meanwhile, the phones in the secretary offices were ringing away. Adriana, head secretary of the headquarters, was answering away, with a very exhausted look on her face. She had one particular call from a voice she recognized. It was the voice of the actual Rockets GM, Daryl Morey.

"Hello, Rockets headquarters, this is Adriana speaking how can I help you?" she said in a fake enthusiastic voice.

"Adriana, how are you? This is Daryl Morey speaking!" Morey said in a loud voice.

"Oh! Mr. Morey! I'm doing pretty well, how are you coming along? Will you be back soon?" Adriana gasped.

"Unfortunately I won't. The doctor says I was extremely lucky to survive such an atrocious hit from a semi-truck. My ribs were bruised and cracked, the impact hyper-extended my left knee, and broke my left arm. I am still unable to walk, but hopefully in a few months' time, I will be able to come to work again," Morey said.

"That's good news, at least it didn't put you out of action permanently. I hope you're back soon enough," Adriana responded. What excitement she had when Morey had called was now gone.

"So how are things going over there? How is Axel running things, is it too stressful for him, is he helpless without me?" Morey asked, a greedy look on his face forming at the thought of his assistant not being able to handle the top spot of the franchise.

"Well to be honest, the way he has ran the franchise has been the same, arguably better. But the problem is that none of us like him anymore. Ever since he was named the interim GM, he has been a completely different person," Adriana said.

"What's changed? Is he not the same prankster that he's always been? Does he not mess around with the employees anymore, what's wrong?" Morey asked.

"Well, he's just not the same fun and cool guy he used to be. He's really rough with the employees. If he sees they're not working, he yells at them, gives them lectures, threatens them, and says other mean things. And even if they are working, he still bothers the crap out of them. I can't count how many times I've been busy with paperwork and the phones at the same time, and he tells me off for letting the phone ring too long or not getting the paperwork done. I can only do one thing at one time! And then he gives me a lecture on multi-tasking! Even worse, he never warns us when he's going home, so he unexpectedly pops in and out and probably never takes a day off and then we have to suffer this every single workday," Adriana said, rolling her eyes.

"Haha, I guess that gives you second thoughts about being 'friends' with him, right?" Morey asked laughing.

"Oh, shut up," Adriana said in defense, blushing.

"Has he fired anyone?" Morey asked in curiosity, continuing the conversation.

"Yeah, he's fired about two or three people for talking back to him. That really got everyone else scared and so they obey his every command so the same doesn't happen to them. We all miss you, Mr. Morey, and we want you back as soon as possible," Adriana said.

"What about the players, how does he treat them?"

"A lot more rough. Rick Adelman complained to me the other day that it's as if he's the actual coach of the team. He's the one yelling at Chase Budinger for letting Thabo slip by him for a dunk, or yelling at Brooks for turning the ball over so much in practice. He even seems to treat Kevin Martin, his idol, pretty rough too."

"And what does Les think of him? Does he approve of what he's done or does he just not pay attention because he knows he can get the job done like he does with me? Or is he on the same boat as you guys?" continued Morey, another greedy look on his face.

"Are you kidding me? Les Alexander loves him. He says Axel is the best thing to happen to the franchise ever since the Kevin Martin trade! We've all tried filing complaints about Axel to him and he just says 'he's doing it for the good of the franchise'" Adriana mocked the Rockets owner in a deep voice "I guess he just likes the authoritarian way he runs things."

"Sounds like it's been rough for you guys in my time away. Well Adriana, it was nice talking to you and getting an update on my franchise, hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The doctors are coming for the daily checkup, so it's time for me to hang up," Morey said.

"Thank you Mr. Morey, and a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too. I hope you recover soon enough so you can end this dark reign that's going on here," Adriana replied.

"Bye," they said in unison, and hung up.

• • • • • • • • • •

Still continuing to try and unload Aaron Brooks and Chase Budinger and also working out a contract extension for Courtney Lee, Axel did not notice Jerome and Dao, two friends of his and secret spies, somehow sneaking in through the window in his office which was on the third floor.

"So we got some updates for you over Mystery Monster Truck," Jerome told Axel. His sudden, loud and energetic voice made Axel jump, and he stopped what he was doing to turn around and look at them.

"I still need to figure out how you guys sneak in through the window. I wonder if anyone has ever noticed a black guy and Asian guy climbing to the third floor of a building. If I were an outsider, I'd get pretty suspicious," Axel told the both of them.

"We ninjas, foo', nobody ever seen us and if they do, they oughta keep quiet if they know what's good for 'em," Jerome replied.

"So what's the update?" Axel asked, changing the subject.

"We have three suspects so far in our mystery. These are all people we think had something against Morey," Dao said. "They are Brad Halstead, that player you drafted that's currently in the D-League. Thabo Sefolosha, who claims that he's not happy here in Houston. And you," Dao continued, to which Axel let out an unconvinced and skeptical laugh.

"Me? Really? Who's the guy paying you to investigate this in the first place? If I had something to hide, I would never have had you trying to go Scooby-Doo here," Axel said, with a bit of anger thrown in.

"We have investigated to the extreme. And by the extreme I mean the extreme. We've asked many people awkward questions. We've had people get suspicious about us and give us dirty looks," Jerome said. "We suspect you because we think you were after Morey's job and the only way you'd be promoted right away would be if he died. Of course, he didn't die fortunately, but I hope you've had a good time being the main boss," Jerome said. "And if it was you, we won't tell no one, big boss" he added, winking.

"Don't be an idiot. It wasn't me. Sure I don't get along with him, but I'm not the one about to wish death on someone else. And plus, it couldn't be me, I was in the office when he was hit, and I don't even know how to drive a semi truck," Axel said. As Jerome was about to open his mouth, Axel added, "And don't think I paid or ordered someone to do it either. This job really is not something I'd kill to have, it just isn't."

"Moving on, I guess we can scratch you from our list, then," Dao said. "Next we got Brad, who we think did it to get payback on Morey for bashing him in front of the media."

"Yeah, Morey did go a little too far in that, calling him lazy and a pot head and all that. You should definitely investigate him a little closer. But also, why Thabo? He seems like a really cool guy to me. I've had him complain about playing time and I've told him that I'm working on it," Axel replied.

"Well Thabo's just the shoe in so we can make it three suspects because three is a good number," Jerome said. "We think he thinks he was separated from the 'family' that he had in OKC, you know, Durant, Westbrook, Ibaka and all them. And with the lack of playing time, he wants a trade, but Morey never even considered trading him, and we even witnessed Morey telling him to rot on the bench."

"But that's an extreme way to get back at a guy for just one insult. I'd scratch Thabo off the list, I know it just can't be him. Knowing you two racist idiots, it would probably be because he's European," Axel said sarcastically.

The door of Axel's office opened, and there stood the owner of the Rockets, Leslie Alexander. He looked from Jerome and Dao to Axel, and smiled.

"Friends of yours?" Alexander asked.

"Assistants I've hired, sir," Axel replied.

"And why wasn't I informed of this?" Alexander asked, puzzled.

"It's nothin' related to the Rockets, really. We just here to congratulate him on his promotion to GM, a month late, but better late than never," Jerome said, putting on his signature smile that seemed to convince everyone.

"Well he's just interim GM, but I say it was about time he was given the top spot; he's done such a great job in one year. Well Mr. Axel, I hope you continue to work hard, don't let these guys distract you. Do your thing." Alexander gave Axel the thumbs up, and went away.

"It was about time you were given the top spot," Dao quoted Alexander once he was out of earshot. "Very suspicious claim."

"Please don't imply that you think it was him. What would he have to gain from attempting to murder Morey? He loves him almost as much as he loves me, and he's the owner. He makes a shit load of money so he's not gaining anything," Axel said. When he looked around, Jerome and Dao were climbing back out the window.

"You sure as hell can't trust no one when you investigating," Jerome said. "We about to do some investigatin' on him."

"I'm not paying you for that. You'll be wasting your time. I'll be sure to give Brad Halstead a call though, and see if I can get anything out of him," Axel said, but when he had finished, Jerome and Dao had jumped out the window, and after a screeching of tires, they were gone.

[Axel.]

Not every day you get to see K-Mart posterize Nene. I liked that pic.

Agreed, it's a really good pic. But I've pretty much taken pics of Martin posterizing almost the entire league this season, 2K gives him quite a bit of athleticism.

Wait, did you just sweep the Spurs this season?:))

Kevin Martin for MVP and scoring leader.xD

Nope. Pretty sure we've split the two games we've played so far. They've been pretty close games though, Spurs' veterans are tough to beat.

Wow, Denver's really doing well. Tough to see that you've basically lost that game because of your weakness from the line ... Somehow I have the same problem over and over again. Either I shoot ridiculously well from the stripe (like .90) or I just can't hit shit and go below .500.

Anyways, at least a win against the Spurs.

I'm surprised at how well the sim engine has treated Denver so far, but playing against them you can definitely tell it's not a fluke. Free throws can be a bit hard sometimes. I usually shoot at round 90% every game, but I do get the odd game where I miss quite a few. It's how basketball is in video games and in real life.

I meant in real life, my bad. Is he injured?

I think he was actually injured yesterday.

He's played five out of six games this season, so he's not injured. As a sidenote, he's also averaging 22 minutes a game so there's nothing wrong.

Hope you guys enjoy this chapter. Things will only get interesting from here.

[Stress Fracture]

What a rough interim GM. Why trade Bud?

[Axel.]

I've found a better use for Terrence Williams than Budinger, that's all. It's not something that needs to be done, but trading Brooks for another backup point guard would benefit us seeing as how Brooks' contract is expiring and since we're over the cap, I can't re-sign him. He is the only player on the roster with a year remaining on his contract, so it is guaranteed he'll be playing elsewhere sooner or later.

[karlsanada10]

I thought you just swept them. I'm not having a hard time on them, just Jefferson. He's a sicko when I play on HOF.-.- Knocking all the three, even guarded.

Anyways, Terrence William's shot style is so hard, but yeah, he's good at driving, but so does Bud. And Brooks, I guess you have to part ways now.

[Axel.]

Richard Jefferson sucks ass when I play him. I'm not even aware that he's playing sometimes until I see that he has 8 points in the boxscore.

I am interested in getting either Eric Maynor from OKC, or Dragic from Phoenix, and I may include Budinger in that package. In exchange, I hope to get a first round pick or two from either of those teams, especially the Suns.

So the NLSC Tournament Round Two Recap is next, but it won't include pics because I was running low on time yesterday and couldn't take them.

[karlsanada10]

How is Suns doing? One of the worst? Dragic? It will be good to see him with the Rockets in your association.

[Axel.]

NLSC Tournament Second Round Results

(1-0) Ray Cer vs. Badger Johnson (0-1)
Score: 21-11
Length: 14 minutes

Ray Cer and Danny Granger had a relatively easy time scoring in this one, as Badger Johnson and John Wall provided little signs of defensive resistance. Cer and Granger put on a show with flashy dunks and also forced the turnovers. Wall and Johnson were forced to difficult shots and as a result, they move down 0-2 while Cer and Granger win their second game and stand at 2-0.

Stats:
Ray Cer - 11 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 11/20 FG
Danny Granger - 10 points, 2 rebounds, 3 steals, 10/14 FG
Badger Johnson - 5 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal, 5/10 FG
John Wall - 6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks, 6/13 FG

(0-1) Amadeus Pelayo vs. Karl Cristobal (1-0)
Score: 21-14
Length: 15 minutes

After a very slow start for Amadeus Pelayo and Luis Scola, they developed a rhythm and went on an 8-0 run to end and win the game. Scola had himself a double-double and Pelayo once again had all-around stats. Karl Cristobal struggled with the size of Pelayo and shot just 5/13 from the field, but Kevin Love played well scoring nine points and grabbing nine boards. Both duos now sit at 1-1.

Stats:
Amadeus Pelayo - 9 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 9/23 FG
Luis Scola - 12 points, 12 rebounds, 1 steal, 12/18 FG
Karl Cristobal - 5 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 1 block, 5/13 FG
Kevin Love - 9 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 9/15 FG

(1-0) Kene Yougario vs. Martti Must (1-0)
Score: 22-20
Length: 17 minutes

Martti Must and Kevin Martin had this game locked up when they were up 20-17. Martin blew a layup that could've ended the game, and then came a run from Kene Yougario and Chauncey Billups. Yougario had another great game with 13 points and 8 boards, and on the defensive end he had three steals and four rejections. Him and Billups scored five unanswered to come away with the win. The entire game, Must and Martin were out of sync in their ball movement, as they just rely on post ups and isolations (respectively) for their scoring. Even with that, they put up a great fight, but just couldn't hold on for the victory.

Stats:
Kene Yougario - 13 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, 4 blocks, 13/18 FG
Chauncey Billups - 9 points, 5 assists, 2 rebounds, 3 steals, 9/18 FG
Martti Must - 8 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 8/15 FG
Kevin Martin - 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals, 12/23 FG

(0-1) Prazar Petrovic vs. Shado Green (0-1)
Score: 21-9
Length: 15 minutes

Defensively, it didn't take very much effort from the duo of Prazar Petrovic and Ray Allen, because Shado Green had what could be the worst shooting numbers in the history of the tournament. Green shot 1/14, but despite just having one point, he had solid numbers in other areas. Joel Anthony had an excellent game with eight points and 12 boards. Many would say that Petrovic and Allen had a win locked up in this one, they just had to get past the top-notch, hard-nosed defense of both Anthony and Green. Offense wins games, and that's how this game was won.

Stats:
Prazar Petrovic - 10 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, 8/19 FG
Ray Allen - 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals, 11/20 FG
Shado Green - 1 point, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 1/14 FG
Joel Anthony - 8 points, 12 rebounds, 3 steals, 4 blocks, 8/15 FG

Tournament Standings

Player	Record
Kene Yougario	2-0
Ray Cer	2-0
Martti Must	1-1
Amadeus Pelayo	1-1
Karl Cristobal	1-1
Prazar Petrovic	1-1
Shado Green	0-2
Badger Johnson	0-2

[Axel.]

How is Suns doing? One of the worst? Dragic? It will be good to see him with the Rockets in your association.

Suns are bottom of the Western Conference. Brooks and Budinger for Dragic would be giving too much imo, especially since Brooks is a good sim engine player, so a first round pick from the Suns would compensate for it. That may be ripping the Suns off quite a bit, however.

[Martti.]

Gotta find better chemistry with Martin.

[KidJustin]

another double-double

wow, the Kene-Martti game was very surprising. cant wait for the matchup against either of these two

[karlsanada10]

Dangit, I lost.-.-

5pts, 5asts, 4reb isn't bad anyway.

[Stress Fracture]

Dangit, I lost.-.-

5pts, 5asts, 4reb isn't bad anyway.

I need to win, that's why.

9/23 FG shooting ain't bad.

[Axel.]

Chapter 25 - Dragedy of the Suns

"Hi Aaron, how are you doing today?" asked Adriana, the head secretary of the Houston Rockets headquarters. It was the day after the Houston Rockets had defeated the San Antonio Spurs at home, and later on the team would be leaving to Oakland to play the Golden State Warriors the following day. Aaron Brooks had entered Rockets headquarters seeking to speak to Axel, the interim Rockets General Manager.

"I'm doin' aight," Brooks said as if shifting the question aside. "I'm here to see Axel, is he workin' today?"

"The question is when does he not work. He works seven days a week. He's in his office right now, just proceed through," Adriana motioned him towards the hallway that led to Axel's office.

"Cool. I got some unfinished business to settle wit 'em," Brooks muttered.

"You mean to say unfinished whining, Brooksy?" Axel asked from behind Brooks. Brooks turned around and found himself face-to-face with the man he wanted to see. They both had a very bitter expression on their faces. It was as if both of them thought the other smelled like dung.

"I been askin' for my trade outta here, where is it foo'?" Brooks asked Axel in a rude tone.

"Where is it, sir," Axel corrected Brooks. "I'm the manager here, you will speak to me as such. I've told you time and time again, I've been working hard at it but every team seems to want to rip me off. Just because you want a trade it doesn't mean I'm gonna take the first scrub I can trade you for," Axel continued.

"You don't know what you doin'," Brooks said to Axel. "Morey woulda had me outta here by now, but yo' bitchass insists on keepin' me here. I don't wanna be here longer, either trade me now, or there will be hell to pay."

Axel laughed, a very cold, cruel and chill-to-the-bone kind of laugh.

"What kind of hell? What can you do about it Brooksy? If I don't trade you, what are you gonna do, stop playing? Retire? Because if so, you would be doing the NBA-- no, the entire world, a favor by doing so. No one would have to watch you chuck up shots any longer," Axel insulted Brooks.

That insult seemed to have really gotten up Brooks's spine. He made to swing at Axel, but Adriana got up out of her chair just in time to get between them.

"Calm down, boys! Please don't let this get out of hand!" Adriana said desperately. She turned to Axel. "You need to stop running this place like you're Stalin! You're even beginning to anger your own players!" she exclaimed to him.

"And who the hell are you to tell me how to run this place! The fucking phones are ringing, sit yo' big ass down and answer them!" Axel yelled at Adriana.

On the verge of tears, Adriana sat down just as the owner, and last person Axel wanted to see, walked into the room.

"What's all this yelling about?" Leslie Alexander asked. He had a very stern and menacing look on his face.

"Sir, he's yelling at us all over the place. He insulted the way I play basketball, and I don't put up wit dat bullshit," Brooks told Alexander, pointing at Axel. "He just yelled at this beautiful young chick that's right here, and that's called being a dick," he continued, pointing at Adriana.

Alexander gave Axel the same stern and menacing look, but Axel did not seem intimidated. In fact, he gave Alexander that same look back.

"Axel, I gave you this position because I thought you could handle it while Morey is gone. I wanted to see what you could do with your smarts, I know you have potential. It appears to me you're still too immature for this job, and one more incident like this I'm gonna have to---" Alexander did not finish his sentence because Axel interrupted him.

"Fire me?" Axel finished the sentence, laughing the same cruel laugh. It gave Alexander a cold chill down his spine. "If you fired me, who's GM now, Brooks? Adriana? You have any idea how well I've been running this place while Morey's gone? You even said it yourself. 'Hiring Axel was the best thing to happen to this franchise since trading for Kevin Martin'," Axel quoted Alexander, mocking him in an old man voice.

Alexander was shocked at the way Axel had talked back to him. He was at a loss for words. It had never been done by any other GM; they had all respected him.

"Now if this conversation is over, I'm gonna finalize a trade for this shot-chucker so we can move on and finally win a championship," Axel said, and left the room. He left Alexander, Brooks, and Adriana in a state of shock.

Brooks left soon afterwards cursing under his breath, while Alexander and Adriana had a conversation about the way Axel has behaved since running the franchise. She informed the owner how rough he was treating the employees and players, and for the first time, Alexander actually listened.

"If I go anywhere near him, I could just sense a cold and evil aura of authority around him. It's good that a manager is strict, but he's strict beyond the limit. He's a dictator," Adriana said.

"I'm gonna have to take matters into my own hands. This is the last time he'll treat an employee or player like that. I have a plan in mind, and hopefully he'll calm down. I'm also, with the evilness that he's capable of, beginning to think he might have had something to do with Morey's accident," Alexander replied, and left the room as well.

Meanwhile, in Axel's office, Jerome and Dao had sneaked in through the window and were informing Axel of their findings about the Rockets owner and their suspicions of him in the incident of Morey.

"Turns out it's not him. He was at a spa getting a massage when this happened, and he would never have dreamed of harming Morey, he loves the guy as much as he loves you. We also went to interrogate Morey, and we... we did have to tell him that you were a terrible general manager to squeeze something out of him, but he says he didn't see the driver's face or what he looked like, so it looks like we're back to where we started," Jerome said.

"The next step is to interrogate Brad Halstead. He should be down in Rio Grande this week, if you guys are looking to advance, you should head down there," Axel told both Jerome and Dao.

"We just stock up on gas so we ready to go," Dao told Axel as him and Jerome quickly climbed out the window.

"Foo', I swear it's colder in Axel's office than outside, and we in December!" Jerome told Dao as they climbed back down to the ground.

"Psychologically, I did feel cold. Axel is just too much into his new job that it's turned him evil, and that's where the cold comes from," Dao said as they drove away in Jerome's Cadillac Cien.

••••••••••

"Oh fuck you Brooks you shot chucker!" Axel said as he was watching the Rockets against the Lakers at Staples Center. He was at his house watching it on his bedroom TV. He had (to the employees' surprise) worked 9 am to 7 pm that day and had finalized a deal with the Phoenix Suns.

He was shipping Aaron Brooks and Chase Budinger away to Phoenix for Goran Dragic and a first round draft pick for 2012. Suns GM Lance Blanks had been a little reluctant in giving away the first round pick.

"But if you look at the standings, there's a chance that pick will end up being the number one pick next year," Blanks had said over the phone.

"We're handing you two scorers that I think fit in well with your system, and your future point guard in Brooks. In return we're only getting a backup point guard in Dragic, we need some compensation for giving away too much," Axel had replied coolly.

Something about Axel's tone had made Blanks reluctantly agree to including the draft pick. "I'm gonna regret this," he had muttered to himself after he had hung up.

When the game was over, Axel phoned Aaron Brooks right away and informed him of this deal.

"That terrible game you played just now? It's your last with the Houston Rockets. You're heading out to the desert, son, to Phoenix. Be sure to tell Bud about this too because he'll be joining you," Axel said.

"Well about time you do somethin' right for da franchise man," a happy Brooks replied. "Who's comin' over to this hell hole?"

"Goran Dragic. I'm pretty sure he's an upgrade over you, not to mention we got a first round draft pick from the Suns. We win," Axel said, and laughed.

"I'm gon' make it my mission to win as many games as possible in Phoenix so that pick will be as low as possible," Brooks told Axel.

"Good luck with that, then. Kinda hard to win games when you chuck up as many bad shots as you do," Axel said in reply.

"I got Steve Nash on my side," Brooks said in defense, with confidence.

"Probably not for long," Axel replied, and hung up.

••••••••••

The next day, word had gotten out about the first trade of this season. Axel took the day off because he was in a sour mood for some reason, and because since the Rockets were on the road that day, there was no game planning to do.

As he browsed many different websites, he found blogs and such analyzing the trade. Almost every blog he looked into there was comments that said, "THE SUNS WERE RAPED!!!!" and other negatives. Charles Barkley had even labeled the trade "turrible" for one of his former teams. He found many articles that praised how the Rockets were able to get a first round pick from that deal especially since the draft class of 2012 is supposed to be strong.

To top things off, Axel received a phone call from his boss, Daryl Morey, who praised him about the trade.

"Genius! And to think I had plans to fire you! That first round pick will be a valuable asset come this draft. Who do you think we should draft?" Morey had said in excitement.

"Psh. I don't know. With so much to do this past month I haven't even had time to scout college prospects. I was thinking of drafting someone who would benefit from coming off the bench. Someone who wouldn't be able to handle a starting role just yet. A young, raw big man would do, a shot blocker. Andre Drummond seems like the way to go. If we luck into the number one pick, that's who we should go with," Axel said.

"I was thinking either Michael Gilchrist, or I've even heard this "Speed" Ray Cer guy is a dark horse," Morey said.

"Speed Racer? Do you still have the effects of anesthesia on you Morey? There is no Speed Racer anywhere, that's a kid movie," Axel said, puzzled.

"No, Speed is his nickname. First name Ray, last name Cer. He's a blindingly quick scoring guard, he would definitely be great to have," Morey said.

"Never heard of such a player. But it's too early to be thinking about the draft right now, we're not the Toronto Raptors. Right now, it's time to think about winning basketball games to get into the post season," Axel said.

"So I've heard you've been an asshole to the employees in your time as GM," Morey told Axel, changing the subject.

"You were way too soft on them before you went out of action. They were thinking that with me as GM everything would be a blast, but I'm not having any of that shit. We're there to work, not to goof off," Axel said.

"Things will change once I'm back in action," Morey replied.

"And when will that be?" asked Axel.

"Hopefully around April, in time for the playoffs," said Morey.

"We'll see," said Axel. "We'll see." And after hearing Axel's cold laugh, Morey hurriedly hung up.

[Axel.]

Gotta find better chemistry with Martin.

With both of you guys being of a scoring mentality, that will kind of be hard to do. Even with that, you guys still make an awesome team.

another double-double

wow, the Kene-Martti game was very surprising. cant wait for the matchup against either of these two

Agreed, those will be exciting matchups to watch.

Dangit, I lost.-.-

5pts, 5asts, 4reb isn't bad anyway.

Good all-around stats. You just didn't have it going like you did last game.

9/23 FG shooting ain't bad.

In this tournament it's sub-par considering last tournament most players shot over 50%.

Week Nine recap tomorrow, but in the meantime, enjoy the "evil" chapter of mine.

[Stress Fracture]

You will really regret on trading Bud.

[Thierry •]

I wouldn't have traded Bud, either. I'd have traded Lee.

[|)e8*]

WHY U YELL AT A CHICK MAN! good trade btw.

[Martti.]

Nice deal, Phoenix seems to suck in 2K with their current line-up, so well done getting that pick. Sucks to see Bud go.

[Houndy]

Damn, GM Axel's a bitch

[rise]

Took those words right out of my mouth. Except I was going to say asshole instead of bitch.

[Lamrock]

Nice to see the Dragic deal finally go down in this story. Funny how you're turning into Jerry Krause though.

[Axel.]

I wouldn't have traded Bud, either. I'd have traded Lee.

You will really regret on trading Bud.

I might regret it, but that's where the draft pick balances it out. Phoenix are in last place in the West, what if that pick ends up being #1 overall?

WHY U YELL AT A CHICK MAN! good trade btw.

No one tells me how to do my job. Glad you think it's a good trade.

Nice deal, Phoenix seems to suck in 2K with their current line-up, so well done getting that pick. Sucks to see Bud go.

Looking up and down their roster, it's not that hard to see why. They don't have a consistent SF and their best PF is a 64-rated Sean Williams (in my game). Aaron Brooks may end up helping them since he's a really good sim engine player. Bud should also help in the SF hole. Here's hoping they don't improve so the pick ends up being #1 or #2.

Damn, GM Axel's a bitch

Took those words right out of my mouth. Except I was going to say asshole instead of bitch.

That he is.

Nice to see the Dragic deal finally go down in this story. Funny how you're turning into Jerry Krause though.

I remember last season everyone wanted me to trade for Dragic but I denied because I was happy with the roster. Seeing as how Phoenix was doing terrible and how poor AB was shooting this season (37% from the field? ), that first round pick is ultimately why I went in for the kill.

As for Jerry Krause, I know who he is, but don't understand how my in-story character is like him.

Week Nine Recap is ready and will be posted shortly.

[Axel.]

[19-7] Houston Rockets 102-89 Golden State Warriors [13-11]


Shane Battier again contributing under the radar. | Finally a game high that doesn't belong to Kevin Martin. Monta Ellis went for 30.

Houston dominated the inside in this one, scoring 52 points in the paint which led to 47% shooting from the field. Luis Scola contributed a bunch of those points on the inside. After having a terrible week last week, Scola has rebounded with a 21-point, 13-rebound double-double against Golden State. With an aggressive Scola, the Rockets were in control of the interior all game.

Kevin Martin went about his normal routine scoring a team high 26 points, which is uncharacteristically low if you base it on some of the most recent games. He also had four boards and four assists to go along with that. Shane Battier shot 5/8 from the field en route to 11 points.

For Golden State, only Monta Ellis and Dorell Wright gave the effort on offense. Ellis had a game high 30, while Wright had a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds, shooting an efficient 7/13 from the field. Stephen Curry and David Lee scored 12 and 11 respectively, the former shooting a sub-par 5/15, and the latter suffered from foul trouble.

After a relatively close first half, Houston went on a brutal 21-6 run in the third quarter to pull away for good. Golden State had 12 steals but it was still not enough to keep up with the faster-paced Rockets.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 26 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 9/19 FG, 7/7 FT
Luis Scola - 21 points, 13 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, 1 block, 9/15 FG, 3/4 FT
Shane Battier - 11 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block, 5/8 FG
Yao Ming - 10 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 blocks, 5/11 FG
Kyle Lowry - 9 points, 9 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 3/9 FG

Warriors:
Monta Ellis - 30 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 12/26 FG
Dorell Wright - 16 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, 7/13 FG
Stephen Curry - 12 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 5/15 FG, 2/4 3P
David Lee - 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 5/7 FG
Enes Kanter - 7 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 3/13 FG

30 21 30 21 102
22 21 21 25 89

[20-7] Houston Rockets 102-105 Los Angeles Lakers [11-15]


Kevin Martin knocks down a desperation trey. | Luis Scola came up with a huge double-double.

Kobe scored 26 points in the second half. | Andrew Bynum also had himself a monstrous double-double.

This game came down to the fourth quarter, and that's where the Lakers took complete control. Early on, Los Angeles was bringing it to the Rockets by forcing them to cough up the ball and bad shots. Kobe Bryant hit his first five shots to propel the Lakers to an early lead. The Rockets offered quite a bit of resistance however, as they countered with a 9-0 run to take their first lead. The Rockets barely edged out the Lakers in the first quarter, 23-21.

The second quarter was a game of runs, as the Lakers went on an 18-6 run to take control of the game again, but Houston would counter with an 18-6 run of their own to push for a five-point lead at halftime.

In the third quarter, Bryant brought forth a 16-point effort, but even with that, the Lakers still found themselves down. Kevin Martin had an 11-point quarter, as he would finish with a game high 39 points with an added five assists and four boards. Bryant would finish with 38 points.

The fourth quarter was a showdown to behold. A three-point play from Lamar Odom and a monstrous dunk from Andrew Bynum got Los Angeles pumped for a huge comeback, eventually retaking the lead with about seven minutes left in the game. Next was a bunch of back and forth action between both squads, with neither team able to grip the lead. After Martin gave the Rockets the lead at 95-93 with an easy jumpshot, Bryant answered back with a three-pointer to electrify the entire Staples Center to give the Lakers a 96-95 lead.

After failing to score on their possession, the Rockets gave up an easy layup to Bryant as the Lakers gained a slightly more comfortable lead at 98-95. Martin converted two free throws and an added bucket to have his Rockets up 99-98.

On the next possession, Odom was fouled by Martin, and converted both free throws to give the Lakers a 100-99 lead. Failing to convert another bucket, Houston was forced to foul as they sent rookie Xavier Nelson to the line, who would knock down five out of six in crunch time. Martin scored an improbable three to bring the Rockets to within one, but Nelson kept his cool at the foul line to seal the win for Los Angeles.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 39 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 14/23 FG, 2/4 3P, 9/9 FT
Luis Scola - 15 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists, 6/13 FG, 3/3 FT
Courtney Lee - 12 points, 3 rebounds, 4/5 FG, 3/3 FT
Yao Ming - 11 points, 10 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 5/9 FG
Kyle Lowry - 11 points, 11 assists, 1 rebound, 1 steal, 4/9 FG

Lakers:
Kobe Bryant - 38 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, 16/25 FG, 5/5 FT
Andrew Bynum - 26 points, 17 rebounds, 12/26 FG
Xavier Nelson - 21 points, 9 assists, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, 7/19 FG, 1/6 3P, 6/8 FT
Lamar Odom - 12 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 4/6 FG, 3/3 FT

23 27 25 27 102
21 24 24 36 105

[20-8] Houston Rockets 112-85 Sacramento Kings [16-13]


Play of the Game: Chuck Hayes hits a turnaround jumper. | Kyrie Irving led a futile effort for the Kings.

The jumpshot wasn't falling for the Rockets, but then, how were they able to not only win this game, but blow out the Sacramento Kings? All game long, they were looking for points inside, and their season high 66 points in the paint reflects that. Not only that, the starters were shooting terribly (with the exception of Shane Battier and Yao Ming) from the field. That is where the bench was given the spotlight and green light to score 43 points, a season high. Despite their lack of the jumpshot, Houston still shot 48% from the field.

"We were missing two key players we were used to playing alongside this game," said Shane Battier. "We lacked one player we need to get used to playing," he continued, referring to Goran Dragic. Dragic was not available to play in this game, as he was still getting prepared to change teams. He will play next game against the Charlotte Bobcats.

Things went well for the Kings in the beginning, as they mounted an 14-0 run to counter Houston's 18-8 start, but afterwards fell short shooting just 39% from the field. Kyrie Irving was a big factor with a team high 23 points and eight assists. Jason Thompson played well with 16 points (6/8 shooting) and 11 boards, but he had a terrible six turnovers. Tyreke Evans was the next double-digit scorer with 15.

Speaking of double-digit scorers, Houston only had two of them, Kevin Martin and Luis Scola. Martin had a game high 36, but on an atrocious 12/28 shooting, while Scola had 12. Additionally, all 12 of Houston's players scored three points or more, which shows the all-around team performance in this one.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 36 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, 12/28 FG, 11/11 FT
Luis Scola - 12 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 4/10 FG
Terrence Williams - 9 points, 1 block, 4/5 FG
Shane Battier - 9 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 4/7 FG
Chuck Hayes - 9 points, 4 rebounds, 3/3 FG
Yao Ming - 9 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block, 4/6 FG
Patrick Patterson - 8 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, 3/6 FG
Kyle Lowry - 3 points, 9 assists, 4 rebounds, 5 steals, 1/7 FG

Kings:
Kyrie Irving - 23 points, 8 assists, 1 rebound, 5 steals, 9/22 FG, 4/4 FT
Jason Thompson - 16 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 6 TO, 6/8 FG, 4/4 FT
Tyreke Evans - 15 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 6/21 FG
Jeff Green - 9 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 4/13 FG

27 30 25 30 112
26 21 17 21 85

[|)e8*]

Despite my kinda-chucking we still beat you! yea!

[karlsanada10]

Xavier Nelson Rookie of the year? )

[Stress Fracture]

That's just Kobe being Kobe.

[Lamrock]

Shitty you lost to the Lakers. Would be very lame if it went un-avenged and they missed the playoffs.

[Thierry •]

Man, those Kings are gonna be scary in a couple of years. Great wins, but Bynum was a monster.

[Axel.]

Despite my kinda-chucking we still beat you! yea!

Kobe bailed you out.

Xavier Nelson Rookie of the year? )

Nah, his shooting numbers are scary. They're somewhere around the 35% range. Other than the shooting numbers though, everything else is above average.

That's just Kobe being Kobe.

And that was just K-Mart being K-Mart.

Shitty you lost to the Lakers. Would be very lame if it went un-avenged and they missed the playoffs.

Yeah, but I kinda had it coming after some beatdowns I've given them in past games from this season and last. That loss is just a minor setback.

Man, those Kings are gonna be scary in a couple of years. Great wins, but Bynum was a monster.

Heck yes, those Kings are pretty scary now. If Tyreke would've had it going, that game could have gone a different way. And Bynum is making a push to start over Yao in the ASG.

I should hopefully get Week 10 posted this weekend. After that, it'll be the December Recap.

[Axel.]

[21-8] Houston Rockets 92-68 Charlotte Bobcats [15-13]

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Luis Scola - 22 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 11/17 FG
Kevin Martin - 19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 6/15 FG, 3/6 3P, 4/4 FT
Yao Ming - 18 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 blocks, 6/11 FG, 6/7 FT
Kyle Lowry - 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 5/7 FG

Bobcats:
Stephen Jackson - 22 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 4 steals, 2 blocks, 6/18 FG, 0/6 3P, 10/14 FT
DJ Augustin - 10 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2/7 FG, 2/5 3P, 4/4 FT
Rafer Alston - 9 points, 2 assists, 4/9 FG
Gerald Henderson - 8 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 4/8 FG
Justine Jones - 8 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block, 1/12 FG, 6/10 FT

19 20 22 31 92
16 15 15 22

[22-8] Houston Rockets 116-99 Washington Wizards [13-20]


Kevin Martin did it all in this game. | Dragic's only field goal of the game.

The Rockets were asleep on defense, and rookie Derrick Williams took advantage. | JaVale McGee notched a double-double.

This appears to have been an easy game for the Rockets, but try telling that to Kevin Martin. Martin lit up the Wizards for a season high 43 points on 16/24 shooting, and without him, Houston would have collapsed completely in this game. Martin's high scoring action kept their lead at double-digits for most of the game, but the Wizards lurked in the shadows and bit them with an unexpected run. Houston's biggest lead was 21, but the Wizards managed to get the margin down to five midway through the fourth. Martin called out his teammates during a post-game conference.

"I can't be bailing everyone out in crunch time. Basketball is a team game, and in moments where the W is slipping from your hands, it's not the time to expect your best player to pull it out, it's when the team has to come together as a unit to win. That's what they (Wizards) were doing, and as a team, they gave us a big scare in the fourth quarter. I'd like to see everyone step up in the future," Martin said.

For the Wizards, Derrick Williams had a career night with 28 points on 11/21 shooting, and was the center piece of Washington's fourth quarter run. However, thanks to Martin's help, the Rockets pulled away when it was necessary to win it by 116-99.

Notes: Houston shot 52% from the field, their highest percentage in recent games, while Washington shot 43%. Washington had pretty poor shooting all around going just 12/19 from the free throw line, and 3/19 from deep. Houston on the other hand went 24/28 from the line, and 8/15 from outside. The Wizards hustled through the game with 15 second chance points compared to just three by the Rockets.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 43 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, 16/24 FG, 3/3 3P, 8/9 FT
Shane Battier - 14 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block, 5/9 FG
Kyle Lowry - 13 points, 12 assists, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block, 4/9 FG, 4/4 FT
Luis Scola - 12 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 2/8 FG, 8/10 FT
Yao Ming - 12 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal, 3 blocks, 6/8 FG

Wizards:
Derrick Williams - 28 points, 1 rebound, 1 steal, 11/21 FG, 2/5 3P, 4/5 FT
Nick Young - 20 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 8/24 FG, 1/7 3P, 3/3 FT
John Wall - 11 points, 16 assists, 2 rebounds, 4 steals, 5/11 FG
JaVale McGee - 10 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4/9 FG, 2/6 FT
Andray Blatche - 8 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4/9 FG

32 30 27 27 116
25 21 23 30 99


[23-8] Houston Rockets 112-85 Philadelphia 76ers [15-16]


Goran Dragic dishes out a season high 10 assists. | Without Andre Iguodala, Evan Turner had to do everything.

The Philadelphia 76ers were without Andre Iguodala whom is out with a Broken Foot but is expected to return to action soon. They would have needed him for every point he could have given them in this game.

Philadelphia started the game terribly in terms of ballhandling, with six turnovers in the first quarter. They had 15 for the game, while Houston only had eight. As a result of their turnovers, Houston came up with 14 steals.

If that wasn't bad enough, Philadelphia's bench only scored 12 points, while Houston's scored 39. Leading the bench for Houston was Patrick Patterson, who scored 14 points and grabbed eight boards and shot 7/9 from the field. Goran Dragic also had a great game with eight points, a season high 10 assists and four boards.

For Philadelphia, Evan Turner scored a game high 34 points on 14/22 shooting, but his effort was not enough as his teammates just did not give him enough help.

"When a young team such as this is missing their veteran leader, it can be tough to play on the road and especially against a great team like Houston," 76ers head coach Doug Collins said. "I think Evan (Turner), did a great job in leading by example, but everyone else was just shut down."

Houston gets an easy win to end the year of 2011, and now they move on to the year 2012 looking to keep piling up the wins and capture the elusive championship.

Key Performers:
Rockets:
Kevin Martin - 33 points, 9 assists, 2 rebounds, 4 steals, 11/19 FG, 10/11 FT
Patrick Patterson - 14 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 7/9 FG
Yao Ming - 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 blocks, 6/10 FG
Kyle Lowry - 9 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 2/10 FG
Luis Scola - 9 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 4/10 FG
Shane Battier - 9 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 3/6 FG
Goran Dragic - 8 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, 3/7 FG

76ers:
Evan Turner - 34 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 14/22 FG, 4/6 FT
Elton Brand - 12 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 1 block, 6/12 FG
Jrue Holiday - 12 points, 13 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block, 4/8 FG, 4/4 FT
Marreese Speights - 10 points, 3 rebounds, 5/11 FG
Spencer Hawes - 8 points, 8 rebounds, 3/6 FG
Jan Vesely - 8 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 4/6 FG

32 27 25 28 112
22 21 17 28 85

[karlsanada10]

You're killin' all of them. :O Are you playing on HOF?