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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 17, 2014 1:44 am

Player Review 2014-2015


I give a run down of every player from 1 to 15 and a bit of insight into their contract situations (if applicable).


Kyrie Irving
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82 games (80 starts)
25.4ppg 4.6rpg 8.2apg 3.1spg .542 FG .353 3pt


A case could be made that Kyrie Irving lost the MVP trophy thanks to the woeful April the Cavaliers had. He was first in the league in steals, and second in scoring. He made his second All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive Team (although let's face it, it was because of his steals category).

Amongst having career highs in just about everything, it was also the first season Kyrie Irving played the full 82 game schedule. Fans of Cleveland and the NBA got to see what Kyrie can do when he's unaffected by injury. What they saw was a man lead an unheralded Cleveland team back into the playoffs for the first time since LeBron James left.

His highly anticipated first playoff will finally be a reality.

Dion Waiters
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66 games (66 starts)
14.7ppg 3.9rpg 3.6apg .481 FG .323 3pt


What a terrible month April ended up being; and it all started when Dion Waiters went down against the Wizards. He wasn't the most consistent scorer, but when your second best offensive player is taken out of the equation, there's a void that needs to be filled.

But it wasn't just scoring. With Hinrich and Bibby being underwhelming backups for Kyrie, Waiters got a lot of minutes at the point. With him out, the Cavs had to rely on the services of the retiring Hinrich and Bibby more, which has been to the detriment of the team.

Unless the Cavaliers make it past the Bulls, Dion might have to play through at least another regular season before he makes his playoff debut.

Paul Pierce
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81 games (54 starts)
14.9ppg 3.2rpg .439 FG .324 3pt


Unless he wins the improbable championship with the Cavaliers, it's likely that Paul Pierce's stint in Cleveland will be compared to Michael Jordan's stint in Washington. At a glance, the numbers are reasonable (perhaps a little inefficient), but fans of the Truth will see his swansong with the Cavs as an aberration on an otherwise one team career.

The Cavs were looking for a reliable second or third scorer when they acquired him. Unfortunately he was unable to deliver that stability for the most part. With Dion Waiters out of the first round of the playoffs, it will at least be interesting to see if Pierce can step up for one last time.

Tristan Thompson
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56 games (55 starts)
10.3ppg 6.6rpg 1.1bpg .596FG


At this stage of his career, it's easy to see that Tristan Thompson was definitely a reach as the 4th overall selection in 2011. With that being said, he's still one of my favourite players on this team. He gets his 10 points per game purely from effort and has become a poor man's Kenneth Faried. His numbers might note support that claim, but keep in mind that his season was also stifled by injury.

As an upcoming restricted free agent, a good playoff performance could earn him an inflated offer sheet, which is something I'm a little torn about.

Steven Adams
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73 games (24 starts)
5.6ppg 5.7rpg 1.1bpg .604FG


Adams was labeled a project going into his NBA career, but he surprised everyone with how quickly he was able to contribute to the Cavs franchise.

A lot of people attribute the Cavaliers disasterous April to the Dion Waiters injury. While that played a big part, it can't be underestimated how much Adams' plantar fasciitis injury impacted the franchise as well. When Adams sat out, Cleveland lost a lot of their defensive presense and overall effort. His blocks per game average isn't that high (1.1) but he manages to alter a lot of shots and is the scrappy player that every team needs.

On the offensive end, Steven Adams is still very raw. Much like Blake Griffin in his rookie year, a lot of Steven Adams' points come off athletic plays and offensive rebounds. Developing a mid-range game would help him become one of the elite centres in the league, because he seems to have everything else in his favour.

J.J. Redick
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68 games (2 starts)
13.9ppg 2.4apg .424 FG .364 3PT


At times when Paul Pierce or Dion Waiters couldn't get going, Redick came off the bench and gave the Cavaliers the offensive spark they needed. This is the main reason he won the 6th man award for the second straight season.

Redick has a player option next season. I'm hoping he will pick it up and continue to be the team's leader off the bench.

Andrei Kirilenko
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80 games (25 starts)
6.1ppg 4.2rpg 1bpg .492 FG


As far as roles are concerned, AK47 probably took the biggest step back out of everyone this season. He became an integral role player for the majority of the season. Even in April, he was one of the better players for the Cavaliers. I know his versatility gets mentioned a lot, but it really does help, especially when a team gets hit by injuries.

Kirilenko is one of the many players hitting the free agency this off-season. No matter how the season ends for Cleveland, he's likely to be one of the few players on the bench that will be offered a new contract.

Carl Landry
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68 games (22 starts)
6.5ppg 3.3rpg .582 FG


Seen as a major upgrade over Charlie Villanueva; but only ended up being a marginal upgrade. With his lack of three point shooting, some might even consider it a downgrade. But since Landry knows how to rebound, I will say it's a marginal upgrade.

His contract is on the books for next season, but he's likely to be shopped around as a potential draft day/preseason trade.

Thabo Sefolosha
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57 games (18 starts)
4.6ppg 2.6rpg .429 FG


Thabo will never be the envy of any NBA player with his stats, but that doesn't mean he's not a valuable guy to have on the bench. Earlier in the season when Cleveland played defense, he was one of the guys setting the example for the rest of the team. Although the Cavaliers have lost 9 of their last 10 games, Sefolosha has also done a pretty decent job at filling in for Dion Waiters in the starting lineup.

He comes off contract at the end of the season, but he could find himself in a Cavaliers uniform once again next season.

Timofey Mozgov
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79 games
4.8ppg 2.8rpg .545 FG


Mozgov has emerged as a decent rotation centre, and will probably stay in the NBA a long time because of his size (see Kwame Brown).

He's not a scrub by any means, he's just kind of in the mediocre Drew Gooden category. He does everything you need a centre to do fairly adequately, but doesn't command any major attention. His contract is on the books for next season, which isn't a bad thing. The Cavaliers could do a lot worse.

Channing Frye
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15 games (9 starts)
10.6ppg 4.3rpg .395 FG .286 3pt


The late season Channing Frye signing was a good one in theory, and to his credit, the initial games he played showed a lot of promise. The problem was that he ended up getting too many minutes in the rotation too soon. As the season progressed, the rust from being out of the game for over a season became more evident. His shooting touch started to wane and he was basically bullied by Jason Thompson in the Orlando game.

When your three point shooting centre is hitting below 30 percent from beyond the arc, he isn't doing his job. But at the moment, he's filling the starting centre role because of Cleveland's lack of options.

Kirk Hinrich
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24 games
4.2ppg 2apg .374 FG


I honestly don't know what to say about Hinrich. Since his stint with the Cavaliers has been rather forgetable, his retirement at the end of the season is probably for the best.

Adam Morrison
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57 games
6.2ppg 1.5rpg .411 FG


The player I was hoping to be the feel good story of the season ended up being, well, Adam Morrison.

The stache showed glimpses of the guy who was such a force for Gonzaga, but there are too many deficiencies in his game to get regular minutes in the NBA.

One more season?

Mike Bibby
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26 games
1.1ppg 1apg .481 FG


Bibby came to life in the final game against Orlando, which makes me believe he could play some meaningful minutes in the first round against Chicago. But we can't go crazy with our expectations of Mike. He only played 26 games during the regular season and he's on his way out of the league.

Mouphtaou Yarou
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16 games
1ppg 0.8rpg .304 FG


Second rounders are hit-and-miss when it comes to panning out in the NBA. Unfortunately for Cleveland, Yarou was the latter.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 17, 2014 2:33 am

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(1) Chicago Bulls Vs Cleveland Cavaliers (8)

At a Glance


On current form, the Cavaliers are easily the worst team in the playoffs. But if any team is capable of a first round let down, recent history would say it's the Chicago Bulls.


Chicago Bulls

ImageImageImageImageImage
Derrick Rose | Jimmy Butler | Luol Deng | Carlos Boozer | Joakim Noah

ImageImageImageImageImageImageImage
Bench: Taj Gibson | Anderson Varejao | Marquis Teague | Pierre Jackson | Harold Bayless | Daequan Cook | Jordan McInnis |


Cleveland Cavaliers

ImageImageImageImageImage
Kyrie Irving | Thabo Sefolosha | Paul Pierce | Tristan Thompson | Channing Frye

ImageImageImageImageImageImageImage
Bench: J.J. Redick | Andrei Kirilenko | Timofey Mozgov | Carl Landry | Adam Morrison | Mike Bibby | Kirk Hinrich

ImageImageImage
IR: Mouphtaou Yarou | Steven Adams | Dion Waiters


Injuries

Bulls: none
Cavaliers: Dion Waiters - Broken Ankle (4-6 weeks), Channing Frye - Twisted Ankle (Day-to-day), Steven Adams - Plantar Fasciitis (1-2 weeks)


Keys

Derrick Rose Vs Kyrie Irving


Two of the most exciting, franchise-leader point guards will be facing off against each other. Forget the series; this is possibly the matchup of the entire first round of the playoffs. Normally I'd say whoever has the better series out of these two will progress to the next round, but that would be selling short the players Derrick Rose has around him.

The Bulls Bigs


The Chicago Bulls have arguably the big best man rotation in the league. Joakim Noah, Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, and former Cavalier Anderson Varejao are all capable of big nights. This appears to be the biggest advantage for the Bulls, as Cleveland have to neutralise them with Channing Frye, Tristan Thompson, Carl Landry and Timofey Mozgov.



Other Matchups Around the League

East

(4) Washington Wizards Vs Toronto Raptors (5)

Wall and Beal should trump Gay and DeRozan... but 2k does love Rudy Gay.

(3) Detroit Pistons Vs New York Knicks (6)

Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond will probably be too strong for New York's front court, and Chris Paul is far superior to Raymond Felton. Iman Shumpert and Amar'e Stoudemire are the Knicks' two best players...

(2) Philadelphia 76ers Vs Milwaukee Bucks (7)

Bynum and Bogut Vs Howard and Sanders will be the matchup to watch.

West

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder Vs Golden State Warriors (8)

The Warriors did the opposite of the Cavaliers and snuck into the playoffs. However, they will be facing the league's MVP. Curry Vs Westbrook will be a great matchup.

(4) Sacramento Kings Vs Minnesota Timberwolves (5)

The Kings are back! But they have to face Kevin Love. Flip a coin on this one.

(3) Denver Nuggets Vs Los Angeles Clippers

The Nuggets have a tough task against the Clippers big three (Griffin, Bledsoe, Jordan), particularly since Ty Lawson is injured.

(2) Houston Rockets Vs Portland Trail Blazers (7)

A fully fit Blazers take on a Houston Rockets team without James Harden. Could an upset be looming?
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 17, 2014 4:40 pm

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The Bulls won the first game in Chicago, beating the Cavaliers 110-103.

Derrick Rose was the standout for the home side. He was just 3 rebounds away from a triple-double with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 12 assists. Luol Deng (16) and Jimmy Butler (14) provided solid support from the wings, while Taj Gibson (14) and Carlos Boozer (11) were influential inside the paint.

On a losing side, Kyrie Irving almost had an identical stat line to Derrick Rose. He was also 3 rebounds away from a triple-double, as he had 24 points, 7 rebounds and 14 assists on his debut post-season game. Tristan Thompson also had a great playoff debut. He registered a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. Experienced campaigner Paul Pierce added 17, while Thabo Sefolosha (15) and J.J. Redick (10) also had notable contributors.

Depite their losing streak going into this game, the Cavaliers were competitive right to the end. They were even within two points as Kyrie Irving had a clutch three within the last minute. But the Bulls closed out the game from the free throw line.


CLE@CHI

CHI: 110
Rose 24, Deng 16, Butler 14
CLE: 103
Irving 24, Thompson 22, Pierce 17

Jordan Performer of the Game: Derrick Rose 24 points (9-24 FG) 7 rebounds 12 assists 5 steals

Rebounds
CHI: Boozer 8
CLE: Thompson 12

Assists
CHI: Rose 12
CLE: Irving 14


Image


Cleveland were on the end of a 107-86 blowout in Chicago.

Derrick Rose was on his game again, achieving another double-double with 26 points and 11 assists. Luol Deng was lethal behind the arc, scoring 23 points, while Jimmy Butler (13) and Joakim Noah (10 points, 11 rebounds) also had solid games.

The Cavaliers had to rely on J.J. Redick to give them a spark from the bench. He top scored with 19 points. Paul Pierce added 16, while Kyrie Irving was sub-par, scoring only 15 points. Thabo Sefolosha chipped in with 10.

The series now heads to Cleveland, where the Cavaliers hope halt the Bulls' momentum.


CLE@CHI

CHI: 107
Rose 26, Deng 23, Butler 13
CLE: 86
Redick 19, Pierce 16, Irving 15

Jordan Performer of the Game: Derrick Rose 26 points 4 rebounds 11 assists 2 steals

Rebounds
CHI: Noah 11
CLE: Mozgov 9

Assists
CHI: Rose 11
CLE: Irving 8
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Lamrock on Tue Mar 18, 2014 2:54 am

Tough break dropping the first two in Chi-Town. Hoping for a comeback!
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Martti. on Tue Mar 18, 2014 6:15 pm

Maybe you can force the series back to Chicago, but you really don't have enough to beat them, especially if Irving is struggling like in game #2.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Kenny on Wed Mar 19, 2014 7:43 pm

Lamrock, I honestly don't know what's worse; getting torched by the guy who has barely played the last couple of seasons, or by the guy who is actually playing for Cleveland IRL.

Martti., Kyrie really does need to score 25+ in order for the team to remain competitive. It's generally not how I like to use my point guards, but as you said, he doesn't have much around him at the moment.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Kenny on Wed Mar 19, 2014 7:49 pm

Image


The Cavaliers were unable to make up any ground in the series, as they lost 105-86 to the Bulls in Cleveland.

Derrick Rose was outstanding once again, leading his team with 28 points. But the standout for the Bulls was Carlos Boozer. He was in vintage form as he scored 24 points off 12-17 shooting. He also grabbed 7 rebounds. Anderson Varejao was a pest against his old team, scoring the majority of his 14 points off second chance opportunities. Jimmy Butler added 10.

For the Cavaliers, no player scored over 20 points on the night. The closest was Paul Pierce, who top scored for Cleveland with 17 points. Kyrie Irving had another sub-par night, with 15 points, while Tristan Thompson scored 11 points despite having the flu.

The Cavaliers have to win their next game in Cleveland to avoid the sweep.


CHI@CLE

CHI: 105
Rose 28, Boozer 24, Varejao 14
CLE: 86
Pierce 17, Irving 15, Thompson 11

Jordan Performer of the Game: Carlos Boozer 24 points (12-17 FG) 7 rebounds 1 assist 1 steal

Rebounds
CHI: Deng 9
CLE: Mozgov 8

Assists
CHI: Rose 5
CLE: Irving, Pierce 3


Image


The Cavaliers were unable to avoid a first round sweep, losing to the Bulls 106-94.

At one stage, the Cavs had a 4 point lead in the 4th quarter, but superstar point guard Derrick Rose took over the game for the visiting team. Rose ended up with 34 points. Carlos Boozer was dominant once again, with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Jimmy Butler and Luol Deng both scored 12 points each.

For Cleveland, Kyrie Irving fought off a slow start to end up 4 rebounds off a triple-double. He had 26 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. Thabo Sefolosha was solid once again, with 12 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks, while Paul Pierce netted 11. Tristan Thompson and Channing Frye ended up with 10 points each.


CHI@CLE

CHI: 106
Rose 34, Boozer 16, Butler 12
CLE: 94
Irving 26, Sefolosha 12, Pierce 11

Jordan Performer of the Game: Derrick Rose 34 points (16-30 FG) 5 rebounds 5 assists 3 steals 4 blocks

Rebounds
CHI: Boozer 11
CLE: Irving, Thompson 6

Assists
CHI: Rose 5
CLE: Irving 10


Chicago Bulls Win the Series 4-0
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Kenny on Wed Mar 19, 2014 7:50 pm

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The Oklahoma City Thunder were the bridesmaids once again as the Chicago Bulls won their 7th championship. Most notably, it's the first without some guy named Michael Jordan.

The Bulls won the series 4-1.


Finals MVP: Derrick Rose

25.7ppg 4.7rpg 6.7apg 1.6spg 0.8bpg .500 FG% .348 3PT% .853 FT%


Retiring Players

[PHI] Manu Ginobili (13 years pro)
[CLE] Kirk Hinrich (12 years pro)
[CLE] Mike Bibby (16 years pro)
[MIA] Kenyon Martin (15 years pro)
[MIA] Shawn Marion (16 years pro)
[UTA] Corey Maggette (16 years pro)
[LAL] Chauncey Billups (18 years pro)
[ORL] Al Harrington (17 years pro)
[DAL] Dahntay Jones (12 years pro)


Byron Scott Retires From Coaching


Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott decided to call it quits on his coaching career. It is believed that the Cavaliers end of season collapse was pivotal in his decision.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [PLAYOFFS!]

Postby Phil89 on Wed Mar 19, 2014 8:52 pm

So I'm not the only one who Rose thrives against. Sucks that you had those injuries and got swept by the Bulls. At least you lost against the eventual champions and not some rubbish team.

Look forward to seeing what you do during the off-season to make your team stronger.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [2015 Off-season

Postby Kenny on Fri Mar 21, 2014 4:35 pm

Phil89, I think it's just point guards in general. I get complacent and think that Steven Adams, AK47 or Tristan Thompson is going to block the shot at the rim. Kyrie Irving is an even worse on-ball defender when I'm controlling him.

I have 3 first round picks, so hopefully that'll lead to some good pieces :)
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [2015 Off-season

Postby Kenny on Fri Mar 21, 2014 4:38 pm

Off-Season Headlines


Kevin McHale Announced as Cavs New Coach


The Cavaliers have signed former Boston great Kevin McHale to a 3 year deal. He will replace the recently retired Byron Scott.


Cavaliers Pick Up Waiters, Sefolosha Options


The Cavaliers front office have accepted the team option on both Dion Waiters and Thabo Sefolosha.


J.J. Decides to Stay


J.J. Redick will remain with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the 2015-2016 season, as he accepted the player option on his contract.


Seven Players to Test Free Agency


Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson headline the players from last season's Cavaliers lineup to test the free agent market. They do so as restricted free agents.

Andrei Kirilenko, Channing Frye, and Adam Morrison also informed the Cavaliers front office that they will try their luck as well, however, they will do so as unrestricted free agents. Paul Pierce and Mouphtaou Yarou will also be unrestricted free agents.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [2015 Off-season

Postby Kenny on Fri Mar 21, 2014 4:40 pm

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Cavaliers Win the Draft Lottery


The Cavaliers have won another Draft Lottery, beating the Orlando Magic. This pick was a part of the deal that sent C.J. Miles to the Memphis Grizzlies for Austin Daye. The Cavaliers will also get picks number 15 (via Golden State) and 19.

With a clear need at the small forward position, it is likely that Andrew Wiggins or Jabari Parker will be taken with the first overall pick.
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Re: What's So Good About Cleveland? (43-39) [2015 Off-season

Postby Kenny on Fri Mar 21, 2014 7:21 pm

2015 NLSC Prospects


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Age: 19
School: Houston


The NBA is full of outspoken, polarizing figures that like to talk as big as the flashy moves in their highlight reels. Then you have guys like Axel Gomez; the point guard out of Houston, Texas.

Gomez was the quiet achiever of the NCAA tournament. Instead of using flashy dunks or his Twitter account, he built his reputation with gritty, physical play. He is now one of the top point guard prospects in the draft.

Strengths


What most people love about Axel Gomez is his ability, and willingness, to play tough defense. As an on-ball defender, he was one of the elite players in the NCAA system at the point guard position. His quickness on the court is a big part of this. He might not be mentioned with the likes of John Wall or Ty Lawson, but he has shown the ability to stay in front of guys who possess similar quickness because of his own deceptive speed.

As much as Gomez' stature has been built with his defensive prowess, he's also extremely effective on the offensive end. He has range out to the NBA three point line, and he's a consistent double-double threat with his ability to find the open man.

All these positive traits and he's only 19. The potential for Gomez is seemingly limitless.

Weaknesses


Turnovers; the common affliction with young, inexperienced point guards. While Axel Gomez is one of the better point guards in the draft, this is an issue he tends to have.

Despite having great quickness, he doesn't utilise it with a great driving game. He can have the tendency to lose the ball when in traffic, and often looks awkward when he's going to the rim. At this stage of his career, he tends to be more of a spot up shooter. Improving his ball security is the biggest step Gomez will have to take in order to make the All-Star leap.

Summary


Most of the weaknesses in Axel's game can be ironed out with more experience at the elite level. Even though the NBA has a plethora of talented point guards, Axel Gomez will find a niche in the league with his tough, gritty style. Defensive minded coaches will love him, and 29 other teams will probably hate him.

ESPN Draft Board: 6



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Age: 21
School: Florida State


A native of Estonia, Martti Must was recognised as a prodigious basketball talent at a young age. He moved to Florida with his parents in the hope that he would be recruited into the college system and get closer to his dream of playing in the best league in the world.

After playing his college ball with the Seminoles, Must enters the 2015 NBA Draft with the opportunity to be the first Estonian born basketball player to be drafted since Martin Müürsepp in 1996.

Strengths


Martti has obvious similarities to Chandler Parsons; he's roughly the same build and he play collegiately in Florida. He is also one of the best shooters in the draft. His deadeye shooting will make him an immediate contributor in the league. But he's not just a guy who launches from the perimeter, he also does a lot of good work in the paint. With Florida State, he got a lot of points from put backs.

Must is also a smart defender. His defensive awareness is well developed, and his quickness makes him an excellent chasedown artist. He has the shot altering ability of a prime Andrei Kirilenko, which seperates him from the average marksman.

Weaknesses


A lot of his problems are on perimeter defense. While he possesses great awareness and speed, he currently lacks the strength to stay in front of the more physical wing players in the league.

Somehow, a deadeye shooter like Martti Must has had his troubles from the charity stripe. He currently shoots in the 60's from the line, which is astounding, considering he shoots from the 40's beyond the arc. With his shooting touch, this is something that can be improved down the line.

Summary


Once you look past Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker, Martti Must is probably the best wing player in the draft. His ability to shoot and block shots could also make him a great stretch forward in the league. Once he adds more strength to his game, he should be at least a fringe All-Star for most of his career.

ESPN Draft Board: 7


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Age: 19
School: Florida


Being a 6'8 small forward out of Akron, Ohio, who played his high school ball with St Vincent - St Mary's High School, Chris Bridges has been compared to LeBron James since day one. While being compared to the best player in the world has been a bit of a curse for Bridges, it also helped him become a heavily recruited player out of high school.

Strengths


Like LeBron, he's an incredible finisher around the rim. He's likely to become a fan favourite in the NBA and will probably make a lot of highlight reels. While we're comparing him to LeBron, he's also a great chasedown blocker and an excellent passer - when he wants to be.

To go with his athleticism, he also has NBA 3-point range, and he's not afraid to take the big shot in crunch time.

Weaknesses


Despite all his gifts, the biggest knock on Bridges at this point of his career is his attitude and overall basketball IQ. This was a part of his game that was exposed at the collegiate level. Even though he has the ability to hit clutch shots, his decision making is often questionable and he can be as much of a liability in big moments as he is an asset.

While he possesses the abilities of the elite, he can also turn into J.R. Smith at the drop of a hat. This in turn has GM's a little weary of drafting him too high.

Summary


If old draft rules applied, Chris Bridges would have went to the NBA straight out of high school and would have been a top 5 pick in 2014. However, entering into the best draft of the last decade, as well as being under the national microscope in college, has made his stock fall considerably. He could be a reach in the top 10, but will most likely to go late in the lottery.

ESPN Draft Board: 13


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Age: 21
School: Georgia


Da'Vonte Hughes enters into the 2015 NBA Draft after a stellar career in Georgia. Despite lacking the athleticism of the modern point guard, he was consistently one of the best guards at the collegiate level due to his shooting ability.

Strengths


As far as his jumpshot is concerned, he has no real weaknesses anywhere on the floor. He can shoot from three, or step in and hit that mid range shot. If he can continue to shoot well in the pros, there will always be a spot for him.

Hughes is also a savvy defender. For Georgia, he made some clutch plays on the defensive end, thanks to his speed and awareness. Although it might be hard for him to become a starter in this league, he could contribute straight away by becoming a team's lock down defender on the perimeter.

Weaknesses


Da'Vonte Hughes isn't an athletic player. He basically relies on his shooting touch and defensive IQ. Hughes is essentially the point guard version of Zach Randolph when it comes to his vertical leap. There's nothing overly wrong about that; Andre Miller was able to have a solid career without the athletic gifts possessed by other point guards. But in a draft with so many athletes, he could potentially fall a few places.

For a point guard as big as Hughes is, he doesn't really force shorter players to defend him on the post. The fact that he's 6'4 and has basically no post offense is quite bizarre.

While he's known as a great clutch player on the defensive end, on offense he still has a long way to go. At this point of his career, he's not a good option for last second plays.

Summary


Da'Vonte Hughes is likely to fall under the radar in this year's NBA Draft and become a steal late in the first round. The league is full of explosive point guards, so at this point, he would be a solid backup.

ESPN Draft Board: 18
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [2015 Off-season + NLSC Prospects]

Postby Martti. on Fri Mar 21, 2014 10:00 pm

Chandler Parsons 2.0 is gonna be a top 5 pick. (Y) And take Wiggins!
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [2015 Off-season + NLSC Prospects]

Postby Phil89 on Sat Mar 22, 2014 1:43 pm

Congrats on winning the lottery! Clearly Dan Gilbert took his son again, for good luck. :wink:

Looks like you will have some cap space to work with seeing as several of your key players are out of contract. I hope Kyrie stays.
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [2015 Off-season + NLSC Prospects]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 2:11 am

Martti. where you got drafted and whether I got Wiggins will be up in the next post :)

Phil89, who would have thought the Austin Daye acquisition would have been a key part of the franchise.

Since they are restricted free agents, it's going to be another conservative free agency so I can re-sign them.
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [2015 Off-season + NLSC Prospects]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 2:11 am

NBA Draft 2015


Jabari Picked at #1


The Cleveland Cavaliers have picked another player from Duke with their number 1 pick, as they drafted Jabari Parker.

Parker, along with Andrew Wiggins, was one of the headline prospects of the 2015 draft and many expected him to be picked with the second pick. However, the Cavaliers front office decided to take the more refined Parker over the athletic Andrew Wiggins.


Cavaliers Get Smart with #15


With the last pick of the lottery, the Cleveland Cavaliers drafted combo guard Marcus Smart.

Smart was projected to be a top 5 pick, but with teams in the top 5 reaching for centres, he was left on the board up until Cleveland got their second pick.


Cavs Steal Must at #19


Martti Must was another prospect that fell in the draft rankings, as he was selected at 19 by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Like Smart, Must was expected to fall within the top 10 of the draft.


NLSC Picks


#19 Cleveland Cavaliers: Martti Must [Florida State]


With the amount of centres that went in the top 10, Must was one of the highly touted players that fell in the draft. The Cavaliers arguably got the steal of the draft here, as Martti Must will further strengthen a once weak position in the roster.

#24 Washington Wizards: Axel Gomez [Houston]


Axel Gomez was another player who fell in the draft because of the centre infatuation in the top 10. Gomez will find it hard to get minutes initially, as he'll be playing behind both John Wall and Bradley Beal. Still, he's a great pick at 24.

#27 Houston Rockets: Chris Bridges [Florida]


Chris Bridges fell even further than expected. As a point forward, he will add a lot of versatility to the Rockets - if they decide to give him playing time.

#30 Chicago Bulls: Da'Vonte Hughes [Georgia]


Hughes is actually a good fit for the Bulls. He should be able to play for the defensive mind Tom Thibodeau, and will most likely be a better backup than Marquis Teague.
Last edited by Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 12:11 pm, edited 2 times in total.
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [2015 Off-season + NLSC Prospects]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 2:12 am

NBA Draft 2015


FIRST ROUND

#1 Cleveland Cavaliers: Jabari Parker [Duke]
#2 Orlando Magic: Andrew Wiggins [Kansas]
#3 Toronto Raptors: Willie Cauley-Stein [Kentucky]
#4 Boston Celtics: A.J. Hammons [Purdue]
#5 Charlotte Bobcats: Zhelin Wang [China]

***TRADE: Lakers send pick #6 and Raul Cruz to the Kings for Jimmer Fredette and the Kings 2016 First Round Pick***

#6 Sacramento Kings: Noah Vonleh [Indiana]
#7 Atlanta Hawks: Glenn Robinson III [Michigan]
#8 Brooklyn Nets: Julius Randle [Kentucky]
#9 Dallas Mavericks: Ilimane Diop [Senegal]
#10 Utah Jazz: Aaron Gordon [Arizona]

***TRADE: Suns send pick #11 to the Celtics for A.J. Hammons***

#11 Boston Celtics: Mitch McGary [Michigan]
#12 New Orleans Hornets: Wayne Selden [Kansas]
#13 Indiana Pacers: James Young [Kentucky]
#14 Miami Heat: Chane Behanan [Louisville]
#15 Cleveland Cavaliers: Marcus Smart [Oklahoma State]
#16 Portland Trail Blazers: Luol Garnett [Kentucky]
#17 Charlotte Bobcats: Kaleb Tarczewski [Arizona]
#18 Los Angeles Clippers: Aaron Harrison [Kentucky]
#19 Cleveland Cavaliers: Martti Must [Florida State]
#20 Milwaukee Bucks: Mario Hezonja [Croatia]

***THREE TEAM TRADE: The Warriors receive Corey Brewer from the Nuggets and Jared Sullinger from the Celtics, the Celtics receive pick #21 from the Nuggets and Arnett Moultrie from the Warriors, The Nuggets receive Seth Curry and Timmy Adrien from the Warriors***

#21 Boston Celtics: P.J. Hairston [North Carolina]
#22 New York Knicks: Gary Harris [Michigan State]
#23 Sacramento Kings: B.J. Young [Arkansas]
#24 Washington Wizards: Axel Gomez [Houston]
#25 Detroit Pistons: Chris Walker [Florida]

***TRADE: The Suns send picks #26 and #56 to the Celtics for Amir Johnson***

#26 Boston Celtics: Austin Hollins [Minnesota]
#27 Houston Rockets: Chris Bridges [Florida]
#28 Philadelphia 76ers: Jerami Grant [Syracuse]
#29 Oklahoma City Thunder: Andrew Harrison [Kentucky]
#30 Chicago Bulls: Da'Vonte Hughes [Georgia]


SECOND ROUND

#31 Orlando Magic: Kyle Anderson [UCLA]
#32 Memphis Grizzlies: Semaj Christon [Xavier (OH)]
#33 Los Angeles Lakers: Rodney Purvis [North Carolina State]
#34 Los Angeles Lakers: Dwight Powell [Stanford]
#35 Charlotte Bobcats: Spencer Dinwiddie [Colorado]
#36 Atlanta Hawks: Lebryan Nash [Oklahoma State]
#37 Brooklyn Nets: C.J. Fair [Syracuse]
#38 Dallas Mavericks: Jamil Wilson [Marquette]
#39 Phoenix Suns: Aaron Craft [Ohio State]
#40 San Antonio Spurs: Amric Fields [TCU]
#41 Utah Jazz: Jerian Grant [Notre Dame]
#42 New Orleans Hornets: Shabazz Napier [Connecticut]
#43 Detroit Pistons: Augusto Lima [Brazil]
#44 Indiana Pacers: Kasey Hill [Florida]
#45 Portland Trail Blazers: Russ Smith [Louisville]
#46 Miami Heat: Jarnell Stokes [Tennessee]
#47 Minnesota Timberwolves: Andre Hollins [Minnesota]
#48 Los Angeles Clippers: Ole Wendt [Germany]
#49 Golden State Warriors: Khem Birch [UNLV]
#50 Milwaukee Bucks: Adreian Payne [Michigan State]
#51 Sacramento Kings: Alec Brown [Wisconsin-Green Bay]
#52 New York Knicks: Patric Young [Florida]
#53 Denver Nuggets: Ruslan Guolla [Russia]
#54 Atlanta Hawks: Jahii Carson [Arizona State]

***TRADE: Pistons send pick #55 and their 2016 first round pick to the Knicks for Tyson Chandler***

#55 New York Knicks: Johnny O'Bryant [LSU]
#56 Boston Celtics: Chuck Cummings [Utah]
#57 Houston Rockets: Victor Simpson [Arizona]
#58 Philadelphia 76ers: Fred York [South Carolina]
#59 Oklahoma City Thunder: Nwankwo N'Diaye [Nigeria]
#60 Chicago Bulls: Julian Cole [UNLV]
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker?]

Postby Lamrock on Mon Mar 24, 2014 5:28 am

With Parker in tow, you should be perennial contenders. Bummed I missed out on a draftee - let me know if you end up doing a 2016 class
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker?]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 11:51 am

Lamrock, I'm hoping so. I think he's going to be a good pro in real life - possibly favourite for ROY if he declares.

As for the 2016 Draft, I can definitely put you in. I accidentally loaded up the 2014 class again for the 2016, so I need to do a complete overhaul of it anyway. I was thinking bad names and porno mustaches as an homage to Live 10.

Anyway, I pretty much lifted the form from your Blazers story:

Code: Select all
NLSC Rookie Template

[b]Name (first and last):[/b]
[b]Age/Date of Birth (19-24 years old):[/b]
[b]Position(s):[/b]
[b]School:[/b]
[b]Height:[/b]
[b]Weight:[/b]
[b]Jersey #:[/b]
[b]Dominant Hand:[/b]
[b]Body Type:[/b]
[b]Skin Tone:[/b]
[b]5 Strengths:[/b]
[b]5 Weaknesses:[/b]
[b]3 Signature Skills[/b]
[b]Playing Style:[/b]
[b]NBA Comparison:[/b]
[b]Physical Appearance (use a headshot if necessary):[/b]
[b]Misc. Details (Backstory, sig. shot, specific tendencies etc):[/b]
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker?]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 11:55 am

Free Agency 2015


Kyrie and Tristan Stay in Cleveland


The Cleveland Cavaliers managed to re-sign their star point guard to a long term deal. Kyrie Irving inked a 5 year deal worth 102.7M.

Tristan Thompson signed a 4 year deal with the Cavaliers. His is worth 26.56M, and includes a team option for a 5th season.


AK-47 Re-Signs


Andrei Kirilenko signed for another season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

He will earn just over 800k and has a player option for a second season.


Magic Guard to Back Up Kyrie


The Cavaliers signed veteran point guard Jameer Nelson to a one year deal.


Chuck Lands in Cleveland


Chuck Hayes signed a one year deal with the Cavaliers.
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker?]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 12:07 pm

Free Agency 2015: Who Went Where?


Amongst the big movers in this free agency were Amar'e Stoudemire (Bobcats), Carlos Boozer (Magic), Wilson Chandler (Heat) and Michael Beasley (Lakers). Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love on the other hand were big names to re-sign major deals with their draft teams.

There also seemed to be a sense of nostalgia in this free agency. After being traded to the Raptors, Rudy Gay finds himself back in Memphis, while both Jeremy Lin and Landry Fields go back to New York.


76ers
Jerami Grant (1st Round Pick)
Fred York (2nd Round Pick)

Bobcats
Amar'e Stoudemire 1yr/8.81M
Khris Middleton 1yr/2.64M
Zhelin Wang (1st Round Pick)
Kaleb Tarczewski (1st Round Pick)
Spencer Dinwiddie (2nd Round Pick)

Bucks
Caron Butler 1yr/1.66M
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute 4yr/6.44M
Mario Hezonja (1st Round Pick)
Adreian Payne (2nd Round Pick)

Bulls
Orlando Johnson 3yr/14.20M
Anderson Varejao 2yr/2.28M
Da'Vonte Hughes (1st Round Pick)
Julian Cole (2nd Round Pick)

Cavaliers
Kyrie Irving 5yr/102.7M
Tristan Thompson 4yr/26.56M
Jabari Parker (1st Round Pick)
Marcus Smart (1st Round Pick)
Martti Must (1st Round Pick)
Andrei Kirilenko (1yr/900k)
Jameer Nelson (1yr/1.05M)
Chuck Hayes (1yr/600k)

Celtics
Mitch McGary (1st Round Pick)
PJ Hairston (1st Round Pick)
Austin Hollins (1st Round Pick)
Arnett Moultrie (via Golden State)
Chuck Cummings (2nd Round Pick)

Clippers
Aaron Harrison (1st Round Pick)
Ole Wendt (2nd Round Pick)

Grizzlies
Rudy Gay 4yr/57.48M
Darington Hobson 1yr/1.76M
Semaj Christon (2nd Round Pick)

Hawks
Michael Carter-Williams (1yr/771K)
Glenn Robinson III (1st Round Pick)
LeBryan Nash (2nd Round Pick)
Jahii Carson (2nd Round Pick)

Heat
Wilson Chandler 3yr/21.48M
Omer Asik 3yr/7.31M
Greg Smith 2yr/4.72M
Chane Behanan (1st Round Pick)
Jarnell Stokes (2nd Round Pick)

Hornets
Wayne Selden (1st Round Pick)

Jazz
C.J. Miles 1yr/3.03M
Aaron Gordon (1st Round Pick)
Jerian Grant (2nd Round Pick)

Kings
Raul Cruz (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Noah Vonleh (1st Round Pick)
BJ Young (1st Round Pick)
Alec Brown (2nd Round Pick)

Knicks
Jeremy Lin 4yr/45.52M
Landry Fields 3yr/21.05M
Marcus Thornton 3yr/21.4M
Gary Harris (1st Round Pick)
Johnny O'Bryant (2nd Round Pick)
Patric Young (2nd Round Pick)

Lakers
Kobe Bryant 2yr/18.33M
Michael Beasley 3yr/40.53M
Wesley Matthews 3yr/28.44M
Jimmer Fredette (via Sacramento)
Rodney Purvis (2nd Round Pick)
Dwight Powell (2nd Round Pick)

Magic
Andrew Wiggins (1st Round Pick)
Carlos Boozer 1yr/3.79M
Elijah Johnson 1yr/1.73M
Kyle Anderson (2nd Round Pick)

Mavericks
Paul Pierce 1yr/2.34M
Ilimane Diop (1st Round Pick)
Jamil Wilson (2nd Round Pick)

Nets
Julius Randle (1st Round Pick)
CJ Fair (2nd Round Pick)

Nuggets
Kenneth Faried 4yr/50.04M
Seth Curry (via Golden State)
Timmy Adrien (via Golden State)
Billy Richmond (1st Round Pick)

Pacers
James Young (1st Round Pick)
Kasey Hill (2nd Round Pick)

Pistons
Danny Green 1yr/2.74M
Tyson Chandler (via New York)
Chris Walker (1st Round Pick)
Augusto Lima (2nd Round Pick)

Raptors
Willie Cauley-Stein (1st Round Pick)

Rockets
Chris Bridges (1st Round Pick)
Victor Simpson (2nd Round Pick)

Spurs
Kawhi Leonard 3yr/23.99M
Corey Joseph 1yr/3.2M
Amric Fields (2nd Round Pick)

Suns
Alonzo Gee 1yr/4.32M
Amir Johnson (via Boston)
AJ Hammons (1st Round Pick via Boston)
Aaron Craft (2nd Round Pick)

Thunder
Andrew Harrison (1st Round Pick)
Nwankwo N'Diaye (2nd Round Pick)


Timberwolves
Kevin Love 5yr/102.4M
Andre Hollins (2nd Round Pick)

Trail Blazers
Luol Garnett (1st Round Pick)

Warriors
Jared Sullinger (via Boston)
Corey Brewer (via Denver)
Khem Birch (2nd Round Pick)

Wizards
Axel Gomez (1st Round Pick)
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker? + Free Agency]

Postby Phil89 on Mon Mar 24, 2014 2:43 pm

Damn, Kyrie got paid. :shock: A good investment though. Especially if he can lead you to a title or two. (Y)

Looks like you nailed the draft as well. I like the Parker selection. Will he be a starter now that Pierce is gone?
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker? + Free Agency]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 4:50 pm

Phil89, he sure did. I figured that with Parker and Waiters/Smart around for the foreseeable future, giving Kyrie that contract would ensure a fairly large window to contend for a title (in theory - it is the Cavs after all).

Parker was a great pick up, but I was equally happy with the other two picks as well. They were both labelled as top 5 on the draft screen, yet they fell to the teens because of the CPU wanting to draft centres. In any case, it's a win for me. And Parker will be starting.
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Re: Cleveland Cavaliers [Wiggins or Parker? + Free Agency]

Postby Kenny on Mon Mar 24, 2014 4:52 pm

Waiters Ruled Out For Opening Night


The comeback for Dion Waiters will be put on hold for a few weeks after he sustained a groin injury in the preseason. Waiters hasn't played since April after he broke his ankle in a game against the Washington Wizards.

This loss represents a great opportunity for rookie guard Marcus Smart, who will start at shooting guard.



2015-2016 Opening Night Roster

ImageImageImageImageImage
Kyrie Irving | Marcus Smart | Jabari Parker | Tristan Thompson | Steven Adams

ImageImageImageImageImageImageImage
J.J. Redick | Martti Must | Andrei Kirilenko | Timofey Mozgov | Carl Landry | Thabo Sefolosha | Jameer Nelson

ImageImage
Chuck Hayes | Dion Waiters
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