Wed Jan 30, 2008 3:10 pm
You have a great game. Too bad you lost thought. Finally Monta snapped his struggles there. Good play from the bench and the Suns starting lineup really killed you. Hoping for another great update 
Wed Jan 30, 2008 7:01 pm
Tough loss, man. Damn, Josh Smith had a bad shooting performance. Nice to see Monta do well. Looking forward to a new "Behind the scenes" update.
Wed Jan 30, 2008 7:54 pm
uhh. bad loss vs phoenix. at least Monta showed he is pretty good.
(oh and this format looks really nice)
(oh and this format looks really nice)
Thu Jan 31, 2008 6:54 am
Doing well man! Just one question..
Where do you get those logos? And how do you get your text like that?
Oh and how do you make those hyperlinks to your box scores and everything?
Where do you get those logos? And how do you get your text like that?
Oh and how do you make those hyperlinks to your box scores and everything?
Thu Jan 31, 2008 7:55 am
narutoaddicted, I wouldn't exactly call it a great game, I got killed, but hey, at least Monta did good
Andy92_man, Thanks man, not sure when next behind the scenes is, we'll see though
KobetheBest, thanks dude
Skillmate, well thats like 3 questions
haha, I'll try and answer them:
Andy92_man, Thanks man, not sure when next behind the scenes is, we'll see though
KobetheBest, thanks dude
Skillmate, well thats like 3 questions
haha, I'll try and answer them:
- 1) yahoo
2) Huh? What do you mean? Like what?
3) I just did these codes [url=(link)][/url]
Last edited by Chaser7 on Mon Mar 03, 2008 6:09 am, edited 1 time in total.
Thu Jan 31, 2008 2:43 pm
My suggestions on the new format, i think that the Game links shopuld be above the boxscorers etc.. i like the format you used in the germany game because of the website like format. Hoping for a new update
Sat Feb 02, 2008 12:49 am
LOL Thanks. And by text, I meant how'd you get those small shadows on the text? Looks really professional. Awesome dynasty! Keep it up 
Sat Feb 02, 2008 2:54 am
narutoaddicted wrote:My suggestions on the new format, i think that the Game links shopuld be above the boxscorers etc.. i like the format you used in the germany game because of the website like format. Hoping for a new update
hm... I dunno I kinda like the new format.. what does everyone else thinks? I want to honor my most loyal viewers though so you opinion is being heard
Skillmatic wrote:LOL Thanks. And by text, I meant how'd you get those small shadows on the text? Looks really professional. Awesome dynasty! Keep it up
Oh you do a drop shadow in photoshop. In photoshop 7, type text, then go to layer styles, then drop shadow. Good luck...
Next update should be tomorrow hopefully..
Sat Feb 02, 2008 3:05 am
Oh alright.. Thanks
I only have MGI Photosuite. But I'll see what I can do
I only have MGI Photosuite. But I'll see what I can do
Tue Feb 05, 2008 7:52 am
Tue Feb 05, 2008 9:01 am
Nice game! Can't wait to read another "behind the scenes". Keep up your good work, I really like your dynasty.
Tue Feb 05, 2008 2:10 pm
Nice win against Team Italy. I agree with Miniseys, I want to read again those behind the scenes of LA Clips. 
Wed Feb 06, 2008 2:19 am
Miniseys wrote:Nice game! Can't wait to read another "behind the scenes". Keep up your good work, I really like your dynasty.
Chino wrote:Nice win against Team Italy. I agree with Miniseys, I want to read again those behind the scenes of LA Clips.
Thanks Guys, Maybe I'll have one more behind the scenes update before the season. We'll see. they're hard to do since in reality I actually am a pretty bad writer... haha. Anyways, I want to do full team by team season previews like TheMC5 did, because A LOT of roster movement has happened during the offseason...
Wed Feb 06, 2008 4:31 am
nice win vs Italy. beautiful dunk on the piciture-who was that Smith or Thornton? and sorry for not checking it for some time now. been bussy with my dynasty(Los Angeles Lakers-check it people-a bit of commercials 
) and had a hard time at school
) and had a hard time at school
Wed Feb 06, 2008 6:40 am
@ Chaser: I'm wondering what you think of Ellis now. His game against Italy was again not very good.
Wed Feb 06, 2008 3:56 pm
Kobe the Best wrote:nice win vs Italy. beautiful dunk on the piciture-who was that Smith or Thornton? and sorry for not checking it for some time now. been bussy with my dynasty(Los Angeles Lakers-check it people-a bit of commercials
thanks man, and the pictures should get even better, now that I can now take screenshots, by hooking up my 360 through my computer!
Miniseys wrote:@ Chaser: I'm wondering what you think of Ellis now. His game against Italy was again not very good.
eh- I LOVE him in real life, (GO WARRIORS), but I'm not sold on his abilities in the game. Just not my video game type of player, but we'll see. Maybe a trade is in the work. On one hand though, I like how he is a combo guard
Sun Feb 10, 2008 5:31 pm
By Mike Bresnahan, LA Times Staff Writer
10/26/08
LOS ANGELES, CA. (AP Press) -- With the Los Angeles Clippers on their flight home from Italy, it is now time to give our comprehensive preview of the team. General Manager, Jim Fayer has completely retooled the team in the offseason, hoping to emulate, the Phoenix Sun's run-n'-gun offense that has been exciting and relatively succesful. Fayer has made some bold moves during the summer, trading away franchise player, Elton Brand (along with promising 2nd year player Al Thorton) away for hot-headed Josh Smith, and steady power forward, Marvin Williams and trading for an aging Manu Ginobili, for Corey Maggette and rookie Noble Robins. Fayer also inked Golden State free agent, Monta Ellis to a 4 year deal for the full midlevel exception.
Rookie, Dylan Lloyd has shown promise in the preseason/ Clipper fans will get used to this.
Ginobili will be counted on to score points/ Livingston is still a prospect at this point.
The bench is also fairly deep with a projected rotation of, Monta Ellis, Cuttino Mobley, Tim Thomas, Dylan Lloyd, and Paul Millsap. Ellis will be the primary backup for Livingston, and may even see time at his more natural position at the 2. Mobley will provide a spark off the bench, and Thomas will add 3-point shooting. Lloyd, will probably evenly split time with Williams at the 4, and could develop into a star someday. Millsap, will play out of position at center, but his strength and knack for getting rebounds, will negate any height he gives up to taller centers.
PLAYER ROTATION
All in all, we believe that the Clippers will win between 45-55 games in the upcoming season. With a history of injuries playing against them, the Clippers will need to stay healthy to have any sort of success. The team is quite deep though, so they should be able to withstand any major injuries. However, with such a revamped squad representing LA this year, it might take a while for the team to gel as one and reach their full potential. This team is too talented to not make the playoffs though, so Clipper fans should enjoy the season.
Final Prediction: 50-32, 2nd in Pacific division, 6th in the West
Last edited by Chaser7 on Sun Feb 10, 2008 7:12 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Sun Feb 10, 2008 6:46 pm
Well, I think you're kind of overexpecting to finish 50-32 at this stage with the team not having been around for too long. But a good start and you could do even better than that
The pics look really nice and the format looks very authentic. Though I don't know how Jaosming gets his awesomely-sexy captures.
The pics look really nice and the format looks very authentic. Though I don't know how Jaosming gets his awesomely-sexy captures.
Sun Feb 10, 2008 6:57 pm
Like the writing in the preview. I think you should get a good backup for Kaman instead of Millsap because he will not going to be a great backup for Kaman. This team will gonna be great hoping for the season to start and my money will be on your rookie Dylan Llyod to have some solid numbers despite not being a starter maybe a 8.5 ppg and 7.0 rpg
Mon Feb 11, 2008 10:20 am
jonthefon wrote:Well, I think you're kind of overexpecting to finish 50-32 at this stage with the team not having been around for too long. But a good start and you could do even better than that
The pics look really nice and the format looks very authentic. Though I don't know how Jaosming gets his awesomely-sexy captures.
Thanks, but I think 50 games is a very reachable goal. The team is rather talented as Lamrock pointed out.. I'm going to come up with some like play-sim-intervene schedule to keep things interesting though.
narutoaddicted wrote:Like the writing in the preview. I think you should get a good backup for Kaman instead of Millsap because he will not going to be a great backup for Kaman. This team will gonna be great hoping for the season to start and my money will be on your rookie Dylan Llyod to have some solid numbers despite not being a starter maybe a 8.5 ppg and 7.0 rpg
I like Millsap alot, he's tough, should be fine. I think Lloyd will be good too...
To All: Do you guys want me to do full team by team previews (not like the one I did for the Clippers but similar to this: http://www.nbaliveforums.com/viewtopic. ... 394#837394?) Or should I just start the season?
It'd take a lot of work for me to do previews for all teams, because I didn't really keep track of everything during the offseason, so I'd only do it if i knew I had a lot of viewers/readers.. But there was a lot of offseason movement, having gone through all the player rotation charts for each team apparently...
More updates coming soon, since I now have early basketball practice, and will get home early now! And there will be a new Behind the scenes update soon too! Keep commenting everyone! Whew a lot of exciting stuff coming up in conclusion!
Mon Feb 11, 2008 3:30 pm
Well, I don't think you need full team previews, just a quick look at starting lineups and a prediction would be fine. Not much text.
Mon Feb 11, 2008 5:15 pm
I agree with jonthefon on the previews, as long as the starters and maybe a brief prediction/overview.
Good to see this is still going, though I must admit I wish you would finish your old Warriors one, being so close to the end. The presentation is about as polished as you can get.
You have an interesting team here. On paper, and from a video game standpoint, you have a great team that should contend for years to come. In reality, it could be a disaster due to the possibility of poor team chemistry. (less than half the original team remains)
Good luck with this!
Good to see this is still going, though I must admit I wish you would finish your old Warriors one, being so close to the end. The presentation is about as polished as you can get.
You have an interesting team here. On paper, and from a video game standpoint, you have a great team that should contend for years to come. In reality, it could be a disaster due to the possibility of poor team chemistry. (less than half the original team remains)
Good luck with this!
Tue Feb 12, 2008 5:02 am
I agree with the others just het line-up is more than fine. I really like your dynasty. I will keep following this.
Tue Feb 12, 2008 6:21 pm
2008-2009 FULL TEAM PREVIEWS
________________________________________________
Players Added: Elton Brand, Al Thorton, Eddie Gill, Tarence Kinsey, David Noel, Tim Walker*, Cornelius Coxon*, Sergei Monia
Players Lost: Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, Anthony Johnson, Solomon Jones, Mario West, Lorenz Wright, Salim Stoudamire, Tyrone Lue
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Coming off its most successful season in more than a decade, GM Billy Knight decided to make a bold move to try and thrust the once dismal Hawks into championship contention. Winning 49 games and losing in game 7 in the 2nd round to the Toronto Raptors was just first step apparently. It was clear to the Atlanta organization, that they needed a more reliable low post presence after getting manhandled by Toronto's Chris Bosh. While the trade for Elton Brand still probably doesn't put them in championship contention, this team is a lock for the playoffs, and could go even further than last year with a core of Joe Johnson, Elton Brand, Josh Childress and Al Horford.
Players Added: Emanuel Carlos*, Stefan Mihai*, Kelvin Cato
Players Lost: Tony Allen, Eddie House, Leon Powe, Scot Pollard
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Year 1 in the "Big Three" era was considered to be a failure. After posting the top record in the Eastern Conference last year, and easily dispatching the New York Knicks in round 1 in 5 games, the Boston Celtics were overwhelmed by a more experienced, playoff tested, Detroit Piston team. Detroit went on to win in 4 games on its way to the title. Danny Ainge, rather than panicking, however, remained calm and banked on the fact that the Celtics just need more time to gel. Obviously the window is closing on this team within 3 years or so, but rookie, Emanuel Carlos, looks a like a steal at this point with his ability to play either guard position. Look out for the C's in '09.
Players Added: Jarvis Hayes, Viktor Khryapa, Cody McNamara*, Ralph Bryant*
Players Lost: Emeka Okafor, Derek Anderson, Earl Boykins, Jeff McInnis, Ryan Hollins, Othella Harrington
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: As if things could be even worse from last year's disaster of a campaign, the Charlotte Bobcats took a MAJOR step backwards, when star player, Emeka Okafor spurned the Bobcats contract extension 2 summers ago, and took advantage this year by cashing in with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Michael Jordan must be feeling the pressure from Charlotte management as he took on big salaries last year, when he traded for Jason Richardson, and resigned Gerald Wallace and Matt Carroll. This team has finished 33-49 the last 2 years, and is on its way down. I'm not sure what I do if I'm the Bobcats now.
Players Added: Irwin Kohler*, Andray Blatche, Jannero Pargo, Mario Lombardi*, Pape Sow
Players Lost: Ben Gordon, JamesOn Curry, Chris Duhon, Aaron Gray, Adrian Griffin
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Much like Charlotte, the Bulls are in a tricky position. Last year was a big regression from 2006-2007, with Chicago finishing with a dismal 36-46 record after achieving so much success the year before. To make matters worse, star shooting guard, Ben Gordon, has yet to resign with the Bulls, and is still holding out. Gordon has yet to be signed with any other team, despite asking for just a 5 year, $40.61 million deal. It is highly likely that GM, John Paxson, will eventually come to terms with the former Huskie, but for now, Coach, Jim Boylan has been forced to play a huge starting lineup, shifting Andres Nocioni into the starting off-guard spot. Rookie Irwin Kohler has been promising in the preseason, but Chicago really needs to get a traditional shooting guard, be it Gordon or someone else- soon.
Players Added: Amory Gallagher*, Christian Power*
Players Lost: Daniel Gibson, Dwayne Jones, Ira Newble, Devin Brown, Anderson Varejao
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Lebron James has called out for help-- and Danny Ferry hasn't responded. In fact, Cleveland is also going backwards- Anderson Varejao signed with the Phoenix Suns, and now rookie Amory Gallgher must play out of position to fill his spot. Worse yet, Big men, Drew Gooden, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas have both been benched for unknown reasons. Cedric Simmons, the new starting center is clearly must worse than Ilgauskas, yet coach Mike Brown has refused to start the former All-star. Gallagher, a natural small forward has taken over as the new starting power forward, despite standing at just 6'7. Cleveland fans should be getting worried, as Lebron James has just one more year left on his deal after this season, and could potentially bolt for greener pastures.
Players Added: Mike Sweetney, Leon Neves*, Dickey Battie*
Players Lost: Devin Harris, Juwan Howard
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: You get the feeling that this team has blown its chances. Having lost for the 2nd time in the NBA finals in 3 years, and losing a key starter in Devin Harris to free agency (Philadelphia), its hard to imagine Dallas ever capturing that elusive NBA title. Dirk Nowtizki is now 30 years old, and team hasn't really made any significant additions to replace Harris. For some odd reason, coach Avery Johnson has decided to shift Jerry Stackhouse to point guard instead of Jason Terry. Our only explanation can be that he thinks Terry is better as a spot up shooter, and it won't matter who brings up the ball. Still we'd have to imagine that it'd be in Dallas' best interest to play Stackhouse at the 2, but then again we're not Dallas. Mark Cuban should probably start looking to make some major moves by the trade deadline because this team just isn't good enough to win a ring right now.
Players Added: Kevin Martin, Shawn Abraham*, Ruben Worthy*, Bobby Jones
Players Lost: J.R. Smith, Eduardo Najera, Von Wafer, Anthony Carter, Yakhouba Diawara
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: This team will definitely be one of the most exciting teams in the 2009 season, and should have no problem scoring points. Shooting guard Kevin Martin, disgruntled with a losing situation in Sacramento, signed with Denver for just the midlevel exception over 4 years adding already to the dangerous combo of Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony. Drafting Shawn Abraham, a 6'8 small forward to play as the power forward and shifting the other K-Mart to the 5, will mean this team will run, run, and run. Marcus Camby, after hearing the news that the Sacramento swingman had signed with the team, quickly came out of retirement, just a month after he had originally decided to call it quits. He has decided to come back for at least one more try at a championship but he actually decides to rest, and it seems like a smart move. The steal of K-Mart v2 is a steal, no doubt, expect great things from this team.
Players Added: Hamran Sue*, J.R. Pinnock, Larry Dowel*, Dwayne Jones
Players Lost: Primoz Brezec, Walter Hermann, Antonio McDyess, Cheick Samb, Jarvis Hayes
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Feeding off their amazing post-season run from last year, the Detroit Pistons have returned and have said that they are "hungrier than ever". Despite finishing just 44-38, and earning only the 4th seed in the weak, Eastern Conference, the Pistons silenced all critics on their way to their 4th championship in team history and 2nd in 5 years. Having drafted Chinese center, Hamran Sue to replace Jason Maxiel as their new starting center, and only adding and losing bit pieces from last season, Detroit should once again contended for the title. Their regular season success (or lack their of) can't be used to determine how they will do in the playoffs, but Joe Dumars may be able to squeeze another title out of this group before their core group will have to be broken up.
Players Added: Jameer Nelson, Warren McNamara*, Manfred McDonnell*
Players Lost: Matt Barnes, Monta Ellis, Austin Croshure, Troy Hudson, Mickael Pietrus
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Golden State is another wild card. On one hand, their one of the few teams in the league with a starting lineup without any unproven rookies, but on the other hand, they are one of the thinnest teams. Its doubtful they can recapture their success that they have had the last two seasons (back to back conference semi-finals runs), after refusing to give Monta Ellis the midlevel exception. Vice President, Chris Mullen must have been worried about giving Ellis a ridiculous contract like he did with Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Derek Fisher, so he tried low-balling the rising star, and eventually pissed him off. Ellis signed with rival Los Angeles Clippers, and Mullen decided to try and replace him with Jameer Nelson by trading away fan favorite Matt Barnes. Nelson and Baron Davis should make for an interesting backcourt, but with no other point guards on the roster, and Nelson starting at the 2, the team is very weak in bench support. Mickael Pietrus also has refused to resign with the Warriors, leaving the bench even more depleted. Don Nelson better work some magic, because this team might have peaked already, and the future is beginning to look slightly bleak.
Players Added: Walter Fox*, Filip Serrano*, Scot Pollard, Earl Barron
Players Lost: Luis Scola, Chuck Hayes, Kirk Snyder, Bonzi Wells, Dikembe Mutombo, Carl Landy, Steve Novak
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Finally. The Chuck Hayes experiment is over. Houston fans can breathe a sign of a relief. After another disappoint first round exit to clearly superior Phoenix Suns, GM Daryl Morey, decided to try and go after a real power forward. He did so in drafting Walter Fox, a 7'0' , 238 lbs power forward out of Illinois. Fox, while probably won't be a star player, is a solid role player and will compliment Yao Ming well. Other teams will struggle to get rebounds over the opposing duo. T-Mac has hinted at that he might want a trade if he still doesn't get past the 1st round, so only time will tell if Fox will be enough for him.
Players Added: Dakota Doyle*, Ji Young Sin*
Players Lost: Stephen Graham, Andre Owens, Kareem Rush
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: We're really not sure where to start with this team. Despite finishing with just a 37-45 record and losing in the 1st round to the Atlanta Hawks 2-4, the team made almost zero improvements during the offseason. It doesn't seem like the current group with their new rookies will able to go much further than what they accomplished last season, and Jermaine O'Neal is entering the "past his prime" stage. How healthy O'Neal stays will determine how the season will go for the Pacers, but Indy fans shouldn't get their hopes up.
Players Added: Mahama Suriya*, Christopher Fortsen*, Michael Ruffin
Players Lost: Sasha Vujacic, Trevor Ariza, Coby Karl, Ronny Turiaf, Chris Mihm
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Again another team that would have been better suited to make more improvements rather than just standing pat. Kobe Bryant can't be happy with another playoff defeat in the opening round even after finishing the season with a 54-28 record, 3rd best in the West. GM, Mitch Kupchak, must feel that the defeat at the hands of the Golden State Warriors was merely a fluke, and that the Lakers are still championship contenders. However, off his thoughts may be, as long as KB24 still wears the purple and gold, the Lakers are always dangerous. With a pair of untested rookies in the starting lineup, one hopes that they can both survive, Bryant's intense personality.
Players Added: Keith Donnelly*, Stavros Macres*
Players Lost: Andre Brown, Casey Jacobsen, Juan Carlos Navarro
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Perhaps the most puzzling thing about Memphis is the benching of franchise player Pau Gasol. It is well known that the Spaniard asked for a trade at the beginning of last season, and his dissatisfaction with club surely has grown after coach Marc Ivaroni's decision to start Hakin Warrick over him. It is also interesting that the Grizzlies would choose to draft another point guard (Keith Donnelly) after just picking Mike Conley Jr. the year before. Memphis is still clearly rebuilding, so don't expect them to make any noise this year.
Players Added: Lorenzen Wright, Melvin Ely, Sergio Rodriguez, Tony Battie, Abraham O'Doherty*, Khamis Talib*
Players Lost: Jason Williams, Ricky Davis, Mark Blount, Daequan Cook, Chris Quinn, Alonzo Morning, Alexander Johnson
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Shaquille O'Neal isn't getting any younger, and its showing. Miami once again was dismissed in the 1st round, and Pat Reilly decided ti was time for a change. Despite not making any major trades or moves, the Heat have managed to changed over 50% of their roster in just 2 months. None of these moves should really make any significance, but it should be fun to see Sergio Rodriguez nicknamed "Spanish White Chocolate" push the ball and possibly infuse some energy into this veteran squad. Still don't expect this Miami team to do any real damage when it really matters and Reilly should really start looking to rebuild around Wade soon.
Players Added: Rik MacKenna*, Tanner Simpson*
Players Lost: Royal Ivey, Awvee Storey, Ramon Sessions, Michael Ruffin, David Noel, Jake Voskuhl
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: On paper everything looks good. Michael Redd + Andre Igualdola + Rik MacKenna is a solid trio. If Yi Jianlian continues to improve this team could be right on the heals of a playoff berth, and possibly even more. Tanner Simpson, the team's 2nd round pick has played well enough to unexpectedly earn the starting spot over Mo Williams. With Williams making so much money, it makes more sense for Milwaukee to move, being such a small market team. However, this team will be more of a threat in a couple of years than right now, but the future looks bright in Milwaukee, so tip your hats off to Larry Harris and the Buck's organization.
Players Added: Emeka Okafor, Ivan Stojanovic*, Danny Fortson, Raymond Walsh*
Players Lost: Ryan Gomes, Chris Richard, Sebastian Telfair
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Maybe the Kevin Garnett deal wasn't so bad after all. With the incredibly amount of cap space created from the trade, GM Kevin McHale used the money to sign Charlotte's star player, Emeka Okafor to a 3 year deal worth around $30 million. With a young, exciting, and promising front court, the T-Wolves are going to be contenders down the road. If Randy Foye contiually improves his game they could be even more of a threat this year. However there are rumors involving Foye, so Minnesota fans keep your eyes peeled on this team, with or without the Villanova combo guard.
Players Added: Viktor Branco*, Oscar McCrathy*, Dahntay Jones, Eduardo Najera, Francisco Elson
Players Lost: Malik Allen, Darrell Armstrong, Nenad Kristic, Jamaal Maglorie, Bostjan Nachbar
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Jason Kidd still hasn't been granted his trade request. His knees are getting stiffer, his foot speed is decreasing, but his court vision remains strong as ever. However, Kidd would like to use his key strength on a team where it would actually do some good, rather than sticking it out in the meadowlands Perhaps the only thing missing from probably HOF's career is a championship ring, even with superstar Vince Carter, and rising star Richard Jefferson. Things don't look too exciting in New Jersey, not that they were ever before, after all it is America's Armpit.
Players Added: Vitaly Ptapenko, Erik O'Keefe*, Sondai Chidzero*, Ronald Dupree, Deshawn Stevenson
Players Lost: Jannero Pargo, Marcus Vinicius, Melvin Ely, Ryan Bowen, Bernard Robinson, Adam Haluska
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Surprisingly, New Orleans was one of the worst teams in the league last season, and ended up with one of the top picks in the draft. Their pick of Erik O'Keefe was a bit surprising, considering Tyson Chandler's and David West's emergence as legit NBA big man, but the Hornets felt otherwise. For now, West is a reserve, but that could easily change in the future. Chris Paul has been greatly improving each year, and is soon going to enter his prime, which is exciting not just for New Orlean fans, but NBA fans alike. The offseason signing of Deshawn Stevenson is questionable, but time will tell whether this was a good move or not. The Hornets could be anywhere from the playoffs to the lottery come next season.
Players Added: Neil Keates*, Tommy Booth*
Players Lost: Jerome James, Randolph Morris
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Its hard to say what created the most shock around the NBA, the fact that Isiah Thomas made no major moves during the summer or that Eddy Curry and Zach Randolph (2 prized Thomas acquisitions) got into a huge fist fight during practice and as result both are benched beginning the season. Randolph is on the inactive list right now, but he claims he is perfectly healthy. The news of the poor chemistry can't be anything good for New York fans, as last year the team managed to squeeze into the playoffs as the 8th seed. However, without Randolph or Curry, don't expect much to happen from the Big Apple, because they really need them to do well. Thomas should probably ship one of the two out- and soon too.
Players Added: Matt Barnes, Willard Gill,*, Vincente Carlos*, Ronnie Price, Steve Novak, Mark Blount
Players Lost: Jameer Nelson, Carlos Arroyo, James Augustine, Tony Battie, Kenyon Dooling, Pat Garrity, Marcin Gortat
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: The trade for Matt Barnes wouldn't be that bad, considering what they gave up. Its just that there's no room in Orlando's crowded frontcourt for Barnes. The former Warrior will start the year on the inactive list, and it seems unlikely that he will overcome Hedo Turkoglu, Rashard Lewis, or Dwight Howard in the depth chart. Still that just shows how deep they are in those positions, and Orlando could be a force to be reckon with. Howard is still developing, but he is slowly becoming a monster in the league. If only they worked on improving that backcourt....
Players Added: Devin Harris, Sanga Ntheppe*, Jeffrey Jefferies*, Marcus Vinicius, Robert Swift, Royal Ivey
Player Lost: Louis Amundson, Calvin Booth, Kevin Ollie, Shavlik Randolph, Louis Williams
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: You have to wonder what Billy King was thinking when he signed Devin Harris to a 4 year, $40 million dollar deal. Now the 76ers are stuck with 2 point guards, who can't shooting, as Harris will join Andre Miller in the backcourt. We have to wonder how far off defenders will be able to back of Philly's backcourt now, and we think one of them should be traded, preferably Miller, since he is older. Charlie Villanueva has been proving critics wrong all his career, and will face another uphill battle trying to prove he was worth AI2. He silenced those who considered Toronto to be dumb for drafting him so high, but beating AI2 seems unlikely. Much like the 76ers playoff chances.
Players Added: Lucian Zimmermann*, Robin Roe*, Anderson Varejao
Players Lost: Sean Marks, Brian Skinner, D.J. Strawberry, Eric Piatkowski
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: How much longer can Steve Nash play at the MVP level? That is the question that dooms Phoenix when their speedy point guard begins to actually breakdown. The chance to win it all is fading away, and Phoenix needs to get it done now or never. The signing of Varejao should actually help, as he will provide tons of energy of the bench, in different areas than what Leandro Barbosa brings to the table. The team is still deep and solid so expect another long playoff run. Not much else to say.
Players Added: Derrick Ferguson*, Rick O'Leary*
Players Lost: Taurean Green, Josh McRoberts, Sergio Rodriguez
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: With only minor tweaks to the roster, Portland should still be a contender- in a few years. LaMarcus Aldrige has won the starting center battle, which means Greg Oden is taking more time to develop than originally thought. Darius Miles is making yet again another comeback attempt, and we can only hope he retires if he fails again. Ferguson is playing out of position at small forward, but don't expect this to hinder his growth as an NBA player. The kid can play, flat out. Portland's future is still looking bright, and Brandon Roy will continue to improve as expected.
Players Added: Will Lynch*, Delonte West, Andre Owens, Carlos Delfino, Quentin Simon*, Ronald Murray
Players Lost: Dahntay Jones, Beno Udrih, Justin Williams, Kevin Martin
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Sacramento better trade Ron Artest and Mike Bibby soon, with Kevin Martin leaving the Kings to sign with the Nuggets, any hopes of success this season have disappeared. Sacramento needs to completely rebuild and find a new identity soon, and having old veterans with large contracts won't help. Both players have a lot of trade value as they can still play, but the supporting cast is way to weak to help them in any meaningful way. If Bibby goes, than so goes the last remaining member of the King's team that lost to the Lakers in the 2002 NBA Western Conference Finals, but so be it. That is the nature of professional sports. Kings fans are in for a long season. Good luck.
Players Added: Trevor Ariza, Corey Maggette, Noble Robin*, Runzhi Niu*, Josh McRoberts, Elmo Hymphrey*, Kyle Watters*, Malik Allen, Tony Allen, Ira Newble
Players Lost: Michael Finley, Brent Barry, Manu Ginobili, Robert Horry, Bruce Bowen, Francisco Elson, Fabricio Oberto, Ime Udoka, Ian Mahinmi
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: This is basically a new team besides a few remaining constants, none more important than Tim Duncan and Tony Parker. With 11 new players this season, including 4 rookies, San Antonio just isn't the same. Noble Robins is a particularly interesting prospect, but the Spurs will miss the veteran leadership of Barry, Finley, Bowen, and "Big Shot Bob". The team should make the playoffs, but a title run seems unlikely.
Players Added: Jon Lange*, Ken Daniels*
Players Lost: Mickael Gelabale, Johan Petro, Kurt Thomas, Robert Swift, Delonte West
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Year 2 begins in the Kevin Durant Era in Seattle. Surprisingly still playing in the land of coffee, the Sonics continue their rebuilding process around rookie of the year, Durant. The team will continue to struggle this year, no doubt, but things are looking up for the future- Seattle fans just may not be there to see it first hand though. On a side note, it is weird that Mouhamed Sene earned the starting center position over established veteran Brad Miller, who they acquired last year.
Players Added: Doug Wright*, Bob Fenwick*, Junior Harrington, Fabricio Oberto,
Players Lost: Maceo Boston, Jose Calderon, Juan Dixon, Carlos Delfino, Darrick Martin
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Considering the team made the Eastern Conference Finals last season, it came as no surprise that Toronto made no major moves. Their rookies have shown promise and have challenged Anthony Parker and Jason Kapono for their starter jobs. Kapono is injured right now, so he will lose for now, but Parker is heading towards the bench for a while. Toronto should repeat last seasons success, but then again they could be another Cleveland Cavaliers story- one year and done.
Players Added: Spyros Saltik*, Ruslan Kolesnikov*, Daequan Cook
Players Lost: Kyrylo Fesenko, C.J. Miles
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: For unknown reasons, much like the Memphis situation, Coach Jerry Sloan has benched Andrei Kirilenko, Carlos Boozer, and Mehmet Okur in favor of clearly weaker skilled players. Sloan has felt no need to defend his decision and his players haven't lashed out yet. Still we can't help but wonder what's going on down in the land of the mormons and hope that the real starting front court reclaim their jobs soon. Until then it is hard to predict what level of success they will find.
Players Added: Wally Hadson*, Julian Wright, Curt Schneider*, Pops Mensah-Bonsu
Players Lost: Andray Blatche, Roger Mason, Dominic McGuire
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Arenas has predicted a 50 win season, we have to disagree, but we don't want to eat our words in the future. Much of it depends on whether Arenas and Butler improved, and the growth of newly acquired Julian Wright and Tyrus Thomas will make things interesting. Still can't say this an elite team as it still needs low post help besides that of Antwan Jaminson, who can't defend a brickwall at this point in his career.
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Credit to TheMC5 for making the banners and for coming up with this idea for previews.
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Players Added: Elton Brand, Al Thorton, Eddie Gill, Tarence Kinsey, David Noel, Tim Walker*, Cornelius Coxon*, Sergei Monia
Players Lost: Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, Anthony Johnson, Solomon Jones, Mario West, Lorenz Wright, Salim Stoudamire, Tyrone Lue
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Coming off its most successful season in more than a decade, GM Billy Knight decided to make a bold move to try and thrust the once dismal Hawks into championship contention. Winning 49 games and losing in game 7 in the 2nd round to the Toronto Raptors was just first step apparently. It was clear to the Atlanta organization, that they needed a more reliable low post presence after getting manhandled by Toronto's Chris Bosh. While the trade for Elton Brand still probably doesn't put them in championship contention, this team is a lock for the playoffs, and could go even further than last year with a core of Joe Johnson, Elton Brand, Josh Childress and Al Horford.
Players Added: Emanuel Carlos*, Stefan Mihai*, Kelvin Cato
Players Lost: Tony Allen, Eddie House, Leon Powe, Scot Pollard
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Year 1 in the "Big Three" era was considered to be a failure. After posting the top record in the Eastern Conference last year, and easily dispatching the New York Knicks in round 1 in 5 games, the Boston Celtics were overwhelmed by a more experienced, playoff tested, Detroit Piston team. Detroit went on to win in 4 games on its way to the title. Danny Ainge, rather than panicking, however, remained calm and banked on the fact that the Celtics just need more time to gel. Obviously the window is closing on this team within 3 years or so, but rookie, Emanuel Carlos, looks a like a steal at this point with his ability to play either guard position. Look out for the C's in '09.
Players Added: Jarvis Hayes, Viktor Khryapa, Cody McNamara*, Ralph Bryant*
Players Lost: Emeka Okafor, Derek Anderson, Earl Boykins, Jeff McInnis, Ryan Hollins, Othella Harrington
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: As if things could be even worse from last year's disaster of a campaign, the Charlotte Bobcats took a MAJOR step backwards, when star player, Emeka Okafor spurned the Bobcats contract extension 2 summers ago, and took advantage this year by cashing in with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Michael Jordan must be feeling the pressure from Charlotte management as he took on big salaries last year, when he traded for Jason Richardson, and resigned Gerald Wallace and Matt Carroll. This team has finished 33-49 the last 2 years, and is on its way down. I'm not sure what I do if I'm the Bobcats now.
Players Added: Irwin Kohler*, Andray Blatche, Jannero Pargo, Mario Lombardi*, Pape Sow
Players Lost: Ben Gordon, JamesOn Curry, Chris Duhon, Aaron Gray, Adrian Griffin
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Much like Charlotte, the Bulls are in a tricky position. Last year was a big regression from 2006-2007, with Chicago finishing with a dismal 36-46 record after achieving so much success the year before. To make matters worse, star shooting guard, Ben Gordon, has yet to resign with the Bulls, and is still holding out. Gordon has yet to be signed with any other team, despite asking for just a 5 year, $40.61 million deal. It is highly likely that GM, John Paxson, will eventually come to terms with the former Huskie, but for now, Coach, Jim Boylan has been forced to play a huge starting lineup, shifting Andres Nocioni into the starting off-guard spot. Rookie Irwin Kohler has been promising in the preseason, but Chicago really needs to get a traditional shooting guard, be it Gordon or someone else- soon.
Players Added: Amory Gallagher*, Christian Power*
Players Lost: Daniel Gibson, Dwayne Jones, Ira Newble, Devin Brown, Anderson Varejao
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Lebron James has called out for help-- and Danny Ferry hasn't responded. In fact, Cleveland is also going backwards- Anderson Varejao signed with the Phoenix Suns, and now rookie Amory Gallgher must play out of position to fill his spot. Worse yet, Big men, Drew Gooden, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas have both been benched for unknown reasons. Cedric Simmons, the new starting center is clearly must worse than Ilgauskas, yet coach Mike Brown has refused to start the former All-star. Gallagher, a natural small forward has taken over as the new starting power forward, despite standing at just 6'7. Cleveland fans should be getting worried, as Lebron James has just one more year left on his deal after this season, and could potentially bolt for greener pastures.
Players Added: Mike Sweetney, Leon Neves*, Dickey Battie*
Players Lost: Devin Harris, Juwan Howard
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: You get the feeling that this team has blown its chances. Having lost for the 2nd time in the NBA finals in 3 years, and losing a key starter in Devin Harris to free agency (Philadelphia), its hard to imagine Dallas ever capturing that elusive NBA title. Dirk Nowtizki is now 30 years old, and team hasn't really made any significant additions to replace Harris. For some odd reason, coach Avery Johnson has decided to shift Jerry Stackhouse to point guard instead of Jason Terry. Our only explanation can be that he thinks Terry is better as a spot up shooter, and it won't matter who brings up the ball. Still we'd have to imagine that it'd be in Dallas' best interest to play Stackhouse at the 2, but then again we're not Dallas. Mark Cuban should probably start looking to make some major moves by the trade deadline because this team just isn't good enough to win a ring right now.
Players Added: Kevin Martin, Shawn Abraham*, Ruben Worthy*, Bobby Jones
Players Lost: J.R. Smith, Eduardo Najera, Von Wafer, Anthony Carter, Yakhouba Diawara
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: This team will definitely be one of the most exciting teams in the 2009 season, and should have no problem scoring points. Shooting guard Kevin Martin, disgruntled with a losing situation in Sacramento, signed with Denver for just the midlevel exception over 4 years adding already to the dangerous combo of Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony. Drafting Shawn Abraham, a 6'8 small forward to play as the power forward and shifting the other K-Mart to the 5, will mean this team will run, run, and run. Marcus Camby, after hearing the news that the Sacramento swingman had signed with the team, quickly came out of retirement, just a month after he had originally decided to call it quits. He has decided to come back for at least one more try at a championship but he actually decides to rest, and it seems like a smart move. The steal of K-Mart v2 is a steal, no doubt, expect great things from this team.
Players Added: Hamran Sue*, J.R. Pinnock, Larry Dowel*, Dwayne Jones
Players Lost: Primoz Brezec, Walter Hermann, Antonio McDyess, Cheick Samb, Jarvis Hayes
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Feeding off their amazing post-season run from last year, the Detroit Pistons have returned and have said that they are "hungrier than ever". Despite finishing just 44-38, and earning only the 4th seed in the weak, Eastern Conference, the Pistons silenced all critics on their way to their 4th championship in team history and 2nd in 5 years. Having drafted Chinese center, Hamran Sue to replace Jason Maxiel as their new starting center, and only adding and losing bit pieces from last season, Detroit should once again contended for the title. Their regular season success (or lack their of) can't be used to determine how they will do in the playoffs, but Joe Dumars may be able to squeeze another title out of this group before their core group will have to be broken up.
Players Added: Jameer Nelson, Warren McNamara*, Manfred McDonnell*
Players Lost: Matt Barnes, Monta Ellis, Austin Croshure, Troy Hudson, Mickael Pietrus
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Golden State is another wild card. On one hand, their one of the few teams in the league with a starting lineup without any unproven rookies, but on the other hand, they are one of the thinnest teams. Its doubtful they can recapture their success that they have had the last two seasons (back to back conference semi-finals runs), after refusing to give Monta Ellis the midlevel exception. Vice President, Chris Mullen must have been worried about giving Ellis a ridiculous contract like he did with Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Derek Fisher, so he tried low-balling the rising star, and eventually pissed him off. Ellis signed with rival Los Angeles Clippers, and Mullen decided to try and replace him with Jameer Nelson by trading away fan favorite Matt Barnes. Nelson and Baron Davis should make for an interesting backcourt, but with no other point guards on the roster, and Nelson starting at the 2, the team is very weak in bench support. Mickael Pietrus also has refused to resign with the Warriors, leaving the bench even more depleted. Don Nelson better work some magic, because this team might have peaked already, and the future is beginning to look slightly bleak.
Players Added: Walter Fox*, Filip Serrano*, Scot Pollard, Earl Barron
Players Lost: Luis Scola, Chuck Hayes, Kirk Snyder, Bonzi Wells, Dikembe Mutombo, Carl Landy, Steve Novak
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Finally. The Chuck Hayes experiment is over. Houston fans can breathe a sign of a relief. After another disappoint first round exit to clearly superior Phoenix Suns, GM Daryl Morey, decided to try and go after a real power forward. He did so in drafting Walter Fox, a 7'0' , 238 lbs power forward out of Illinois. Fox, while probably won't be a star player, is a solid role player and will compliment Yao Ming well. Other teams will struggle to get rebounds over the opposing duo. T-Mac has hinted at that he might want a trade if he still doesn't get past the 1st round, so only time will tell if Fox will be enough for him.
Players Added: Dakota Doyle*, Ji Young Sin*
Players Lost: Stephen Graham, Andre Owens, Kareem Rush
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: We're really not sure where to start with this team. Despite finishing with just a 37-45 record and losing in the 1st round to the Atlanta Hawks 2-4, the team made almost zero improvements during the offseason. It doesn't seem like the current group with their new rookies will able to go much further than what they accomplished last season, and Jermaine O'Neal is entering the "past his prime" stage. How healthy O'Neal stays will determine how the season will go for the Pacers, but Indy fans shouldn't get their hopes up.
Players Added: Mahama Suriya*, Christopher Fortsen*, Michael Ruffin
Players Lost: Sasha Vujacic, Trevor Ariza, Coby Karl, Ronny Turiaf, Chris Mihm
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Again another team that would have been better suited to make more improvements rather than just standing pat. Kobe Bryant can't be happy with another playoff defeat in the opening round even after finishing the season with a 54-28 record, 3rd best in the West. GM, Mitch Kupchak, must feel that the defeat at the hands of the Golden State Warriors was merely a fluke, and that the Lakers are still championship contenders. However, off his thoughts may be, as long as KB24 still wears the purple and gold, the Lakers are always dangerous. With a pair of untested rookies in the starting lineup, one hopes that they can both survive, Bryant's intense personality.
Players Added: Keith Donnelly*, Stavros Macres*
Players Lost: Andre Brown, Casey Jacobsen, Juan Carlos Navarro
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Perhaps the most puzzling thing about Memphis is the benching of franchise player Pau Gasol. It is well known that the Spaniard asked for a trade at the beginning of last season, and his dissatisfaction with club surely has grown after coach Marc Ivaroni's decision to start Hakin Warrick over him. It is also interesting that the Grizzlies would choose to draft another point guard (Keith Donnelly) after just picking Mike Conley Jr. the year before. Memphis is still clearly rebuilding, so don't expect them to make any noise this year.
Players Added: Lorenzen Wright, Melvin Ely, Sergio Rodriguez, Tony Battie, Abraham O'Doherty*, Khamis Talib*
Players Lost: Jason Williams, Ricky Davis, Mark Blount, Daequan Cook, Chris Quinn, Alonzo Morning, Alexander Johnson
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Shaquille O'Neal isn't getting any younger, and its showing. Miami once again was dismissed in the 1st round, and Pat Reilly decided ti was time for a change. Despite not making any major trades or moves, the Heat have managed to changed over 50% of their roster in just 2 months. None of these moves should really make any significance, but it should be fun to see Sergio Rodriguez nicknamed "Spanish White Chocolate" push the ball and possibly infuse some energy into this veteran squad. Still don't expect this Miami team to do any real damage when it really matters and Reilly should really start looking to rebuild around Wade soon.
Players Added: Rik MacKenna*, Tanner Simpson*
Players Lost: Royal Ivey, Awvee Storey, Ramon Sessions, Michael Ruffin, David Noel, Jake Voskuhl
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: On paper everything looks good. Michael Redd + Andre Igualdola + Rik MacKenna is a solid trio. If Yi Jianlian continues to improve this team could be right on the heals of a playoff berth, and possibly even more. Tanner Simpson, the team's 2nd round pick has played well enough to unexpectedly earn the starting spot over Mo Williams. With Williams making so much money, it makes more sense for Milwaukee to move, being such a small market team. However, this team will be more of a threat in a couple of years than right now, but the future looks bright in Milwaukee, so tip your hats off to Larry Harris and the Buck's organization.
Players Added: Emeka Okafor, Ivan Stojanovic*, Danny Fortson, Raymond Walsh*
Players Lost: Ryan Gomes, Chris Richard, Sebastian Telfair
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Maybe the Kevin Garnett deal wasn't so bad after all. With the incredibly amount of cap space created from the trade, GM Kevin McHale used the money to sign Charlotte's star player, Emeka Okafor to a 3 year deal worth around $30 million. With a young, exciting, and promising front court, the T-Wolves are going to be contenders down the road. If Randy Foye contiually improves his game they could be even more of a threat this year. However there are rumors involving Foye, so Minnesota fans keep your eyes peeled on this team, with or without the Villanova combo guard.
Players Added: Viktor Branco*, Oscar McCrathy*, Dahntay Jones, Eduardo Najera, Francisco Elson
Players Lost: Malik Allen, Darrell Armstrong, Nenad Kristic, Jamaal Maglorie, Bostjan Nachbar
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Jason Kidd still hasn't been granted his trade request. His knees are getting stiffer, his foot speed is decreasing, but his court vision remains strong as ever. However, Kidd would like to use his key strength on a team where it would actually do some good, rather than sticking it out in the meadowlands Perhaps the only thing missing from probably HOF's career is a championship ring, even with superstar Vince Carter, and rising star Richard Jefferson. Things don't look too exciting in New Jersey, not that they were ever before, after all it is America's Armpit
.Players Added: Vitaly Ptapenko, Erik O'Keefe*, Sondai Chidzero*, Ronald Dupree, Deshawn Stevenson
Players Lost: Jannero Pargo, Marcus Vinicius, Melvin Ely, Ryan Bowen, Bernard Robinson, Adam Haluska
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Surprisingly, New Orleans was one of the worst teams in the league last season, and ended up with one of the top picks in the draft. Their pick of Erik O'Keefe was a bit surprising, considering Tyson Chandler's and David West's emergence as legit NBA big man, but the Hornets felt otherwise. For now, West is a reserve, but that could easily change in the future. Chris Paul has been greatly improving each year, and is soon going to enter his prime, which is exciting not just for New Orlean fans, but NBA fans alike. The offseason signing of Deshawn Stevenson is questionable, but time will tell whether this was a good move or not. The Hornets could be anywhere from the playoffs to the lottery come next season.
Players Added: Neil Keates*, Tommy Booth*
Players Lost: Jerome James, Randolph Morris
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Its hard to say what created the most shock around the NBA, the fact that Isiah Thomas made no major moves during the summer or that Eddy Curry and Zach Randolph (2 prized Thomas acquisitions) got into a huge fist fight during practice and as result both are benched beginning the season. Randolph is on the inactive list right now, but he claims he is perfectly healthy. The news of the poor chemistry can't be anything good for New York fans, as last year the team managed to squeeze into the playoffs as the 8th seed. However, without Randolph or Curry, don't expect much to happen from the Big Apple, because they really need them to do well. Thomas should probably ship one of the two out- and soon too.
Players Added: Matt Barnes, Willard Gill,*, Vincente Carlos*, Ronnie Price, Steve Novak, Mark Blount
Players Lost: Jameer Nelson, Carlos Arroyo, James Augustine, Tony Battie, Kenyon Dooling, Pat Garrity, Marcin Gortat
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: The trade for Matt Barnes wouldn't be that bad, considering what they gave up. Its just that there's no room in Orlando's crowded frontcourt for Barnes. The former Warrior will start the year on the inactive list, and it seems unlikely that he will overcome Hedo Turkoglu, Rashard Lewis, or Dwight Howard in the depth chart. Still that just shows how deep they are in those positions, and Orlando could be a force to be reckon with. Howard is still developing, but he is slowly becoming a monster in the league. If only they worked on improving that backcourt....
Players Added: Devin Harris, Sanga Ntheppe*, Jeffrey Jefferies*, Marcus Vinicius, Robert Swift, Royal Ivey
Player Lost: Louis Amundson, Calvin Booth, Kevin Ollie, Shavlik Randolph, Louis Williams
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: You have to wonder what Billy King was thinking when he signed Devin Harris to a 4 year, $40 million dollar deal. Now the 76ers are stuck with 2 point guards, who can't shooting, as Harris will join Andre Miller in the backcourt. We have to wonder how far off defenders will be able to back of Philly's backcourt now, and we think one of them should be traded, preferably Miller, since he is older. Charlie Villanueva has been proving critics wrong all his career, and will face another uphill battle trying to prove he was worth AI2. He silenced those who considered Toronto to be dumb for drafting him so high, but beating AI2 seems unlikely. Much like the 76ers playoff chances.
Players Added: Lucian Zimmermann*, Robin Roe*, Anderson Varejao
Players Lost: Sean Marks, Brian Skinner, D.J. Strawberry, Eric Piatkowski
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: How much longer can Steve Nash play at the MVP level? That is the question that dooms Phoenix when their speedy point guard begins to actually breakdown. The chance to win it all is fading away, and Phoenix needs to get it done now or never. The signing of Varejao should actually help, as he will provide tons of energy of the bench, in different areas than what Leandro Barbosa brings to the table. The team is still deep and solid so expect another long playoff run. Not much else to say.
Players Added: Derrick Ferguson*, Rick O'Leary*
Players Lost: Taurean Green, Josh McRoberts, Sergio Rodriguez
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: With only minor tweaks to the roster, Portland should still be a contender- in a few years. LaMarcus Aldrige has won the starting center battle, which means Greg Oden is taking more time to develop than originally thought. Darius Miles is making yet again another comeback attempt, and we can only hope he retires if he fails again. Ferguson is playing out of position at small forward, but don't expect this to hinder his growth as an NBA player. The kid can play, flat out. Portland's future is still looking bright, and Brandon Roy will continue to improve as expected.
Players Added: Will Lynch*, Delonte West, Andre Owens, Carlos Delfino, Quentin Simon*, Ronald Murray
Players Lost: Dahntay Jones, Beno Udrih, Justin Williams, Kevin Martin
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Sacramento better trade Ron Artest and Mike Bibby soon, with Kevin Martin leaving the Kings to sign with the Nuggets, any hopes of success this season have disappeared. Sacramento needs to completely rebuild and find a new identity soon, and having old veterans with large contracts won't help. Both players have a lot of trade value as they can still play, but the supporting cast is way to weak to help them in any meaningful way. If Bibby goes, than so goes the last remaining member of the King's team that lost to the Lakers in the 2002 NBA Western Conference Finals, but so be it. That is the nature of professional sports. Kings fans are in for a long season. Good luck.
Players Added: Trevor Ariza, Corey Maggette, Noble Robin*, Runzhi Niu*, Josh McRoberts, Elmo Hymphrey*, Kyle Watters*, Malik Allen, Tony Allen, Ira Newble
Players Lost: Michael Finley, Brent Barry, Manu Ginobili, Robert Horry, Bruce Bowen, Francisco Elson, Fabricio Oberto, Ime Udoka, Ian Mahinmi
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: This is basically a new team besides a few remaining constants, none more important than Tim Duncan and Tony Parker. With 11 new players this season, including 4 rookies, San Antonio just isn't the same. Noble Robins is a particularly interesting prospect, but the Spurs will miss the veteran leadership of Barry, Finley, Bowen, and "Big Shot Bob". The team should make the playoffs, but a title run seems unlikely.
Players Added: Jon Lange*, Ken Daniels*
Players Lost: Mickael Gelabale, Johan Petro, Kurt Thomas, Robert Swift, Delonte West
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Year 2 begins in the Kevin Durant Era in Seattle. Surprisingly still playing in the land of coffee, the Sonics continue their rebuilding process around rookie of the year, Durant. The team will continue to struggle this year, no doubt, but things are looking up for the future- Seattle fans just may not be there to see it first hand though. On a side note, it is weird that Mouhamed Sene earned the starting center position over established veteran Brad Miller, who they acquired last year.
Players Added: Doug Wright*, Bob Fenwick*, Junior Harrington, Fabricio Oberto,
Players Lost: Maceo Boston, Jose Calderon, Juan Dixon, Carlos Delfino, Darrick Martin
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Considering the team made the Eastern Conference Finals last season, it came as no surprise that Toronto made no major moves. Their rookies have shown promise and have challenged Anthony Parker and Jason Kapono for their starter jobs. Kapono is injured right now, so he will lose for now, but Parker is heading towards the bench for a while. Toronto should repeat last seasons success, but then again they could be another Cleveland Cavaliers story- one year and done.
Players Added: Spyros Saltik*, Ruslan Kolesnikov*, Daequan Cook
Players Lost: Kyrylo Fesenko, C.J. Miles
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: For unknown reasons, much like the Memphis situation, Coach Jerry Sloan has benched Andrei Kirilenko, Carlos Boozer, and Mehmet Okur in favor of clearly weaker skilled players. Sloan has felt no need to defend his decision and his players haven't lashed out yet. Still we can't help but wonder what's going on down in the land of the mormons and hope that the real starting front court reclaim their jobs soon. Until then it is hard to predict what level of success they will find.
Players Added: Wally Hadson*, Julian Wright, Curt Schneider*, Pops Mensah-Bonsu
Players Lost: Andray Blatche, Roger Mason, Dominic McGuire
PLAYER ROTATION
OUTLOOK: Arenas has predicted a 50 win season, we have to disagree, but we don't want to eat our words in the future. Much of it depends on whether Arenas and Butler improved, and the growth of newly acquired Julian Wright and Tyrus Thomas will make things interesting. Still can't say this an elite team as it still needs low post help besides that of Antwan Jaminson, who can't defend a brickwall at this point in his career.
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Credit to TheMC5 for making the banners and for coming up with this idea for previews.
Wed Feb 13, 2008 12:15 am
Wow, what a long read but it was worth it . Hmmm what a weird season it gonna be because some of the star of some teams are bench? 
Hoping you do good for the season will predict a 44-35 season for you
. Hmmm what a weird season it gonna be because some of the star of some teams are bench? Hoping you do good for the season will predict a 44-35 season for you