NC Domination [6-3] 6 Games and Way Way Way Too Many Trades

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2013 Playoffs First Round Summary

(2) Atlanta Hawks def. (7) Orlando Magic 3-2
After splitting the first two games of the series, the Magic seemed to take complete control in Game 3, while Dwight Howard seemed incapable of putting a beating on his former team. Finishing with eleven points and six boards, Howard's Hawks fell to 2-1 after a 93-72 loss. But the Hawks came back strong in Games 4 and 5 to close out the series. Howard averaged 16.4 points and 9.8 rebounds in the five games, while fellow frontcourt starter Kevin Love averaged 15.0 points and 15.2 rebounds. The Hawks won Games 1, 4, and 5 by at least 20 apiece. Game 2 was the only game decided by less than twenty points, and the Magic won by six.

(3) Chicago Bulls def. (6) Indiana Pacers 3-1
One name can summarize the series: Derrick Rose. The Bulls won when he scored big, and they lost when he didn't. Rose scored just 14 points and dished three assists in a 22-point loss in Game 1, but bounced back and averaged 40.3 points in the final three games of the series including a 45-point, 9 rebound performance in the final game, a 122-79 blowout. The Indiana defense was never spared and lost the final three games by an average of 31 points, after beating the Bulls in Game 1 by more than 20.

(4) Charlotte Bobcats def. (5) Cleveland Cavaliers 3-1
Every game was a contest in this 4-5 match-up. But in the end, it was Charlotte's four-headed monster of Josh Smith, Gerald Wallace, Raymond Felton, and Aaron Brooks that was able to put away the Deron Williams-led Cavs. Game 4 was definitely a doozy in the series, a 115-113 overtime thriller that included dozens of lead changes, countless highlight dunks and other plays, plenty of star play, and some unexpected bench performance. Reserve point guards Axel Gomez and Darren Howard scored 14 points apiece in very limited minutes, spelling Raymond Felton and Deron Williams, respectively, when necessary. Gomez saw minutes in overtime after Aaron Brooks fouled out and Felton was moved to shooting guard. Gomez scored two clutch three-pointers in the final two minutes of OT, including the eventual game-winner with 40 seconds left, to win the series. Wallace was injured in Game 3, played just six minutes in Game 4, and may miss time in the series against Miami with a sprained ankle.

(1) Dallas Mavericks def. (8) Sacramento Kings 3-0
No contest. With the exception of the 13-point victory in Game 1, every game was a blowout. Monta Ellis, Chris Paul, and Dirk Nowitzki combined to average 94 points per game in the series, including 37.7ppg from Monta Ellis. The Dallas defense, anchored by Bogut, Paul, and Marion, allowed 92 points per game, while Dallas put up at least 115 in every game. Shawn Marion tweeted, "We would have been disappointed with anything less than a sweep."

(2) Oklahoma City Thunder def. (7) Houston 3-0
This series was quite similar to the Mavs-Kings series, only Houston nearly won Game 3 behind a career-high 39-point outburst by Bryce Fletcher. Too bad some member of the Thunder cracked 40 in each game. Andre Iguodala, a much improved offensive player, recorded 41 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists in Game 1, while Russell Westbrook shot 17-21 and 6-6 from downtown in Game 2 en route to 43 points, 6 steals, and 9 assists, while Kevin Durant who had totaled for 35 points in the first two games, went for 47 in Game 3, including the game-winning three which got the Thunder a 131-128 win in Game 3's second overtime period. Westbrook made 11 of his 12 three-point attempts in the series. Andre Iguodala stifled Kevin Martin and let him total just 31 points and 14 assists in the three game series.

(3) Denver Nuggets def. (6) Golden State Warriors 3-0
Blake Griffin tallied 106 points and 52 rebounds in the three-game series, in which Denver totaled 350 points. Golden State managed 269. Enough said.

(5) Phoenix Suns def. (4) LA Lakers 3-0
Every series in the West ended in a sweep. Also, Phoenix is the only non-Top-4-seed to advance to the Conference Semifinals in either conference. In a hard-fought series, Phoenix's tight-knit core of Steve Nash, Amar'e Stoudemire, Jason Richardson, and Grant Hill outplayed the Lakers by just enough to win each game. Despite the team's main ball-handlers (Nash and Hill) being around 40 years old, Phoenix snuck away from the much younger, yet still aging, Lakers. The Bryant-Gasol tandem is still strong, but the Suns' chemistry outlasted a Game 3 Gasol onslaught, which included 31 points and 14 rebounds.

[Axel The Great]

West playoffs were unbalanced, all sweeps, and Houston was on the wrong end of one. However, I like how my player shined against the Cavs, especially in the clutch. Wallace missing against the Heat definitely won't help at all though.

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Conference Semifinals

(1) Miami Heat def. (4) Charlotte Bobcats 4-1
No surprises, considering Gerald Wallace missed the first three games of the series, and three Wallace-less games equaled three losses against the Heat superteam. In fact it wasn't until Game 4 that the Heat lost only their third game of the entire season. After a 29-1 record in the regular season, a 3-1 beatdown of the Domination, and a 4-1 victory over Charlotte, the Heat improved to 36-3 on the season. LeBron James had a great series averaging 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists over the five game series, while Raymond Felton led the Bobcats with 24 points and 11 assists per game.

(2) Atlanta Hawks def. (3) Chicago Bulls 4-2
A highly contested six game series was decided by Game 4 and Game 6 game-winners by Dwight Howard and Mo Williams, respectively, for the Hawks. A very bitter Danny Granger (who had an off-series, averaging just 14 points and 4 rebounds) sounded off on the Hawks. "Sometimes the best team doesn't always win the series. Sometimes a team gets some friendly bounces when they matter most." An upset Derrick Rose was fined $25,000 after muttering something about "shitty officiating" during a press conference. Dwight Howard led the way with just under 30 points and 13 rebounds per game.

(1) Dallas Mavericks def. (5) Phoenix Suns 4-0
TNT analyst Charles Barkley summed it up perfectly. "I've never seen such a throwdown in a conference semifinals in my entire life." The Phoenix Suns turbo-charged offense was stopped dead in its tracks by the super-tight Dallas defense, while Dallas scored at will throughout the series. In fact, it was such a non-contest that Grant Hill, Steve Nash, and Amar'e Stoudemire didn't even play in Game 4, in order to avoid injuries, fearing that injuries could possibly threaten the veterans' careers. Grant Hill said in a post-series interview, "I've still got some left in me. I know I'm 40 years old with a lot of injuries behind me. But I'll tell you something. I don't envy whoever has to play the Mavs next. They could beat any team without question right now." Dirk Nowitzki and Monta Ellis combined for 75 points per game in the series, while Chris Paul had outlandish assist and steal numbers throughout the series, including 22 assists and 8 steals in a 35-point victory in Game 3. Andrew Bogut, with help from Shawn Marion, held Amar'e Stoudemire to zero points, six rebounds, and eight turnovers in Game 2, while Bogut had six blocks. Dallas goes on to play the winner of OKC vs. DEN.

(2) Oklahoma City Thunder def. (3) Denver Nuggets 4-3
Finally, a Game 7! Oklahoma City won the first two games without a problem, lost Game 3 in Denver, and then lost Andre Iguodala to a broken finger. Denver won Games 4 and 5 without a hitch, behind two consecutive 39-point performances from Carmelo Anthony. Russell Westbrook, who was uncharacteristically quiet through the first five games of the series, exploded for 48 in Game 6. Iggy returned in Game 7, which was decided by just three points. J.R. Smith's final three-pointer would have tied Game 7 up at the buzzer, had it gone in, but it rimmed out and OKC won the series following a huge 101-98 victory at home. Durant averaged just 22.3 points in the series, but totaled 69 rebounds and 17 blocks in the seven game series. Blake Griffin scored 21 points and had 23 rebounds in Denver's losing effort in Game 7.

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Eastern and Western Conference Finals

(1) Miami Heat def. (2) Atlanta Hawks 4-3
The first true test for the Miami Heat in the playoffs. After ripping through the first two rounds, the Heat engaged in a fully fledged seven game headlock with the Hawks. Led by the best two rebounders in the NBA, Dwight Howard and Kevin Love, the Hawks were able to steal Game 1 by four points, before losing Games 2, 3, and 4. Dwyane Wade absolutely abused Mo Williams, JJ Redick, and Jamal Crawford through the entire series. After a weak game 4, Dwight Howard bounced back in Game 5 with a monster 20-20 performance and the Hawks won by 14, the largest final margin of the entire series on either side. Game 6 went into overtime, and Kevin Love's three at the buzzer forced a Game 7. LeBron James unleashed 40 points, 13 rebounds, and 5 steals in the 12 point Game 7 victory. The Miami are one step closer to a three-peat, by making the NBA Finals again.

(1) Dallas Mavericks def. (2) Oklahoma City Thunder 4-0
In the other conference, however, the series was not as heavily contested. The Thunder lost Kevin Durant for Games 2 and 3, which likely helped the Mavs sweep the Thunder. Despite Durant scoring 37 in his Game 4 return, the damage was done and the Thunder had to bow out to the super-hot Dallas Mavericks, who averaged 131 points per game in the four game series, including an unexpected vintage performance from Shawn Marion in Game 2, where he scored 36 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 blocked shots. Dirk Nowitzki, though unspectacular, averaged a very solid 23 points and 7 rebounds throughout the series, as his Mavericks look to add a ring to their fingers.

[kibaxx7]

GO MAVS!

[rise]

Yeah, I'm really hoping they win too.

Thierry Tirieux has been pretty quiet so far in the playoffs. Hopefully he turns that around in the Finals, because the Mavs need every ounce of contribution if they want to beat the Heat.

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Mavericks Win First Title, Monta Ellis wins Finals MVP

Super-scorer Monta Ellis took home the Finals MVP award after the Dallas Mavericks' Big Three of Chris Paul, Dirk Nowitzki, and Ellis took down LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and the Miami Heat in just five games. The Mavericks, who swept their way to the NBA Finals, made history by winning their first title. They did it with solid contributions all around. Monta Ellis, who averaged 30.0 points on an incredible 64% from the field, 3.4 assists, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game in the five-game series, bailed out his team in Game 4 with 17 points in the final six minutes, including a clutch layup to win the game 109-108, and put the Mavs up 3-1. The momentum had been in the Heat's favor since a 120-99 blowout in Game 3, in which Dwyane Wade put up 39 and LeBron James scored 41. Game 5 went down to the wire, with Dirk Nowitzki and Chris Bosh battling it out in a scoring duel. Dirk outscored Bosh 36 to 26, but it was Shawn Marion's jumper with under thirty seconds left that finally made the Mavericks' lead insurmountable.

The Mavericks' bench made the difference in the first two games of the series. With Andrew Miles, Thierry Tirieux, Rashad McCants, and Rip Hamiltion all averaging double-digits in the two games, it did not matter that Dirk was struggling, and that fellow bench players Tony Allen and Jameer Nelson were injured. The Heat, however, relied too much on their Big Three. Shawn Marion, not considered a member of the Mavs' Big Three, had another vintage performance in Game 3, where he scored 20 points, dished 6 dimes, and grabbed 16 rebounds, but with LeBron James at top form (41 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists), Marion couldn't contain him.

Perhaps the biggest difference was battle between the men in the middle. The Mavs' Andrew Bogut held his own against the 6'7 DeJuan Blair throughout the series. Although Blair nearly averaged a double-double in the series (9.6ppg, 9.6rpg), Bogut was much more impressive (13.2ppg, 10.6rpg, 2.2bpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg), and he also shot 70% from the field, and he got Blair (and Chris Bosh for that matter) into foul trouble at the end of more games than not. It is interesting to note that Bogut attempted just twenty field goals in the entire series and scored 66 points. While he wasn't impressive from the stripe (54.9%), the fact that he drew enough fouls to attempt 71 free throws in five games, definitely is. DeJuan Blair was nowhere as effective, getting to line for a total 14 free-throw attempts and shooting exactly 50%.

Dirk Nowitzki was not himself during the series. He took too many jump shots, and while that may not seem terrible for the seven-foot fadeaway expert, he shot under 40% from the field and under 35% from downtown, and didn't get a lot of trips to the line (although he did convert 29 of 31 attempts, which is a very high mark). Dirk still shot enough to put up 27 points and 9 rebounds a game for the series, while playing worse defense than usual. He disappeared in the clutch in Game 2, and Chris Paul and Monta Ellis had to bail him out by combining for 23 points in the fourth quarter.

Chris Paul was fantastic, averaging 22 points, 13.2 assists, and 3 steals in the series, and while he was also erratic from downtown (3-16 from downtown) he was a great playmaker throughout the series, as he and Ellis have created what could turn into the greatest backcourt duo of all-time. Paul had 32 points and 17 assists in Game 1, not including several other plays on the defense that kept Ricky Rubio scoreless with just three assists.

The Turning Point: After the Miami Heat took Game 3 and a seventeen-point lead after the first half of Game 4, it was all Monta Ellis. After a disappointing first half, Monta scored 29 points and 8 rebounds in the second (finishing with 36 and 10), including 17 in the last six minutes to edge the Heat at the final buzzer.

The Mavs will hoist their first championship banner during the first home game of the regular season next year.

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Knicks Win Draft Lottery, But Trade Their Pick To Philly

For the second year in a row, the Knicks won the lottery and secured the first pick in the draft, yet it seems that the Knicks are closing in on trading that pick to the 76ers. Sources say the trade would send the 1st pick, guard Juan Carlos Navarro, and forward-center Jermaine O'Neal to the 76ers, in exchange for 6'10 sharpshooting guard Predrag Morinoskovic, and centers Jackie Butler and Craig Brackins.

The trade makes some sense for both sides, but not too much. The Knicks, who had minimal success with last year's 1st pick, 6'5 forward Tristan King (hurt for half the season, missing both All-Rookie Teams), likely wanted a sure thing. They got just that in Morinoskovic. He is a surefire talent who will absolutely improve to be an All-Star someday. He is a very long 2-guard, who can hit from any spot 25 feet from the rim. After really turning heads in Philly in his first two years, he will go on to play in front of the largest city in the country, where he will get tons of attention. He is also quite versatile, able to play the point (which is quite rare for anyone 6'10), or either forward position. While he may not be the versatile and efficient scorer that newly crowned NBA Champion Dirk Nowitzki is, he could possibly turn into something similar. In the crowded New York backcourt (possible stars in PG Jerryd Bayless, SG OJ Mayo, and G/F Tristan King), PM may have to play some time the four, where he could easily try to mimic Dirk's game. He doesn't have Nowitzki's strength, but a few extra hours a week in the gym could easily solve that issue.

Philadelphia, on the other hand, have the best dilemma you could ask for. You've got a solid starting five, and a decent bench, plus two lottery picks (#1 and #12) in what is easily the best draft in recent memory. The dilemma is, who do you pick? Do you pick Evan Fields, the 6'8 guard who pretty much is LeBron James #2, minus some athleticism, size, strength, and maybe not quite the facilitator yet? Do you pick the second-coming of Allen Iverson in Philip Griggs, the undersized, yet super-scoring two-guard, but also a bit of a headcase? What about the unique defensive mastermind, Emery Ramsey? Ronny Ramos, the injury-prone, 7'1, 240lb forward-center, but with every ounce (and then some) of versatility, athleticism, (and in the future, dominance) that only Shaquille O'Neal possessed? Even Tyrone Tyndell, who, if he can set his ego aside, is a sure-fire superstar on the offensive end, while showing promise on defense? So many options, so little time, since the draft is less than a week away.

[Axel The Great]

I bet it feels good for the Mavs to take revenge on the Heat. Solid series by Ellis and Paul.

[rise]

Hell yeah

[kibaxx7]

OH YEAH BABY!! RING

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First Round:

NYK 6'8, 205lb, SG/SF/PG/PF EVAN FIELDS
A truly amazing player, Evan Fields was the obvious number one selection. He possesses the size, shooting ability, and defensive prowess to play and defend four positions at a very high level. He has drawn a wide variety of comparisons, from Kobe Bryant to pre-injury Brandon Roy (which seems the most likely comparison) to Boris Diaw to Adam Morrison. He broke all kinds of records in his two years in college, including last year's averages of 33.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 7.0 assists. While these same numbers will most likely not carry over to the NBA, we will definitely see some very big games out of this young player, as he currently plays at an All-Star level.

2. NJN 6'2, 160lb, SG/PG PHILLIP GRIGGS
New Jersey fans facepalmed after this selection. The Nets now have a superior front court, but they passed on a potential franchise center, something every team craves. However, this undersized 6'2 combo guard is no slouch. He can run with the best of them at any level and has big-time hops. He will definitely outperform backcourt teammate Nate Robinson, his most common comparison, from day one, but will his lack of size and muscle stop him from dunking and driving into the lane and make him settle for jumpshots? Nets fans better hope this doesn't happen, because Griggs only shot 40% from the field in his final year in college. As long as he can add a fair bit of muscle to his frame, Griggs definitely has an All-Star appearance in his future.

3. NOH 7'1, 230lb, C/PF/SF RONNY RAMOS
Whenever you have a 7'1 guy who is agile enough and shoots well enough to play positions three through five, you have something very special. While Ronny Ramos seems to be a 20/10 guy right now in the NBA, every GM in the league now knows his extensive injury history. He is often limited by minor injuries, but usually plays through those. The real problem is that he tore his ACL one and a half years ago and is still recovering. This can be cut both ways: "Will he ever recover completely?" is one question, and the other question is "How on earth did he average 25 points, 13 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks per game in college while recovering from an ACL injury? How well does he play when he's healthy?"

4. DET 6'9, 231lb, SF/SG/PF EMERY RAMSEY
Like Evan Fields, Emery Ramsey is a do-it-all type player, only without a jump shot. Ramsey is better on defense than offense, and is a terrific shot blocker for a 6'9 swingman who may occasionally slide over to the 4. His college averages of 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game show his versatility, and Ramsey could be a deadly offensive player if he develops a consistent jumper. He shot 16% from outside last season.

5. UTA 6'11, 268lb, C/PF QUINCY WESLEY
Utah was desperate for size, after signing D-Leaguers to start at the 5 last season. Hopefully Quincy Wesley can carry over his 20/10 statlines to the NBA and bring Utah some much-needed star power. His defense sets him apart from ordinary centers with superb blocks and steals averages of 3 blocks and 2.5 steals per game.

6. WAS 6'11, 250lb, C/PF MARCUS STEVENSON
Basically a repeat of last year's draft, Washington selected a modestly-athletic, shot-swatting, decent-scoring, solid-rebounding center. Steve Houston will likely be expendable after this draft. Either that, or Marcus Stevenson will be traded. The only main differences that set them apart are that Stevenson hasn't missed a game due to injury since high school, and he is a lot better with his shot selection.

7. MIN 7'1, 310lb, C/PF ANDREW ALLEN
Dear God, David Kahn. You drafted like eight guards in one draft, and a couple of drafts later, you come back and draft a 300lb guy who was predicted to land somewhere between #20 and #30 in a super-deep draft, saying "You can't teach size." He's halfway correct. You can't teach "vertical" size, but you can most certainly teach "horizontal" size. Just ask Eddy Curry and ask him how his career went. As for wanting size on the roster, couldn't Kahn have drafted the 7'5 guy who went ten picks later?

8. MIL 6'6, 215lb, SF/SG/PF TYRONE TYNDELL
At 6'6, Tyrone Tyndell plays much bigger than his frame. He's a top-notch, dynamic scorer and is a ferocious rebounder for his size. Extremely quick, he's also a huge leaper and loves to get to the rim. However, he is as wild off the court as he is on it, and he draws many comparisons to J.R. Smith, which may not always be a good thing. One thing we know, is that he'll definitely make an impact in the league. A big impact.

9. MEM 6'6, 226lb, SF/PF/SG RAY BARRETT
Once known as a likely top pick in this draft, a knee injury lowered Ray Barrett's draft stock. He is a very similar player to Tyrone Tyndell, but doesn't have as good of a shooting touch. To compensate, he is excellent at stealing the basketball, and also quite good at passing the rock. He was an explosive dunker, but he may be less explosive in his rookie season, coming off of knee surgery.

10. TOR 6'11, 245lb, PF/C ALPHONSO LIVINGSTON
Despite being listed as a mid-to-late first-rounder, Alphonso snuck into the top 10! An extremely well-rounded center, Livingston did not truly stand out in any one area, but his equal commitment to offense, defense, and rebounding makes him an enticing option. He is quite strong and very consistent, two characteristics the Raptors severely lacked last season. You won't get many exceptional statlines from him, but you can count on 15 points and 8 rebounds from him almost every night. Comparing him to Lamarcus Aldridge may be pushing it a little, but Livingston's game reminds a lot of people of the All-Star's rookie season.

11. BOS 6'2, 165lb, PG/SG BLAKE AARONS
Just when we thought the Celtics couldn't get any smaller, they picked a point guard. However, they could not ask for a more perfect complement to Rajon Rondo. When Rondo can't get it done on offense, Blake Aarons is sure to make it happen. He has a lot of potential as a jump shooter, is an exceptional leaper, and is not turnover-prone. His defense could use quite a bit of work, but he could quickly learn under the perennial All-Defensive point guard.

12. PHI 6'6, 255lb, PF/SF/C XAVIER BRADLEY
There are a lot of undersized players in this draft who play much bigger than they actually are. Xavier Bradley is another one. At 6'6, Bradley can play either forward position, and can even play a little while at the 5. He is a truly explosive leaper, with a rock solid foundation in all facets of the game. He scores with ease, rebounds at a great rate, and is a top-notch defender at every level. He could very well be the next Gerald Wallace if he adds a jump shot to his arsenal.

13. POR 6'11 265lb, PF/C AARON CARTER
Here's a guy who can do a little of everything. He's got a developed post game, he can drain shots from mid-range, and can pass the ball out of double-teams quite well. On defense, he does not hesitate to block a shot. His athleticism may not be up to par with others at his position, but anyone who is known as a very poor man's Tim Duncan, has potential.

14. LAC 6'4, 164lb, PG/SG RICHARD EMBREY
Richard Embrey is a quite, low-key kind of guy off the court, but he's a completely different person on the court. Despite his skinny frame, he will not hesitate to make defenders pay with a dunk, and he is very good at timing his jump to come up with the occasional block. He's quite athletic and is a high-energy guy. He is a great floor general, but is well-known for his college career 5% shooting from beyond the arc. That must improve.

15. SAS 6'11, 250lb, C/PF BEN CAMPBELL
The Spurs found a second replacement for Tim Duncan! With the selection of Dan Janson last year, they went all out and drafted another 6'11 forward! It is unclear whether Ben Campbell will play power forward or center, but it is clear that he will score and rebound. He may not be a good defender yet, but he's only 21, and analysts expect him to average a double-double next season. Talk about high expectations for the last guy picked in the lottery.

16. SAC 6'5, 185lb, SG/PG RICKY RICHARDSON
There aren't many defensive-minded point guards like Richardson in the league right now. In fact, there may not be anyone in the league like him right now. He's one of those guys who you wish were a little bit taller so they could play any position on the floor. Scouts mostly go by his high school performances, as he missed his only college season with a severe injury. In high school, he would be start the game at center, but would handle the ball a lot more than the average center. He became known as a point-center. Obviously at 6'5 and only 185 pounds, there is no chance of him playing any amount of time at the 5 in the NBA, but he will show off the strength, defensive talent, and rebounding abilities we usually associate with big men, while handling the ball, defending, and shooting like a guard.

17. NCD 7'5, 287lb, C ZACK EVANS
At 7'5, Zack Evans is the biggest player drafted in a long time. With his height, you would expect him to get drafted in the lottery, but injuries have already taken their hold on the big man. Minus the injuries, he has drawn several comparisons to other super tall NBA stars Yao Ming and Shawn Bradley. He excels on defense, particularly blocking shots, and on the glass, when he's healthy. At the draft combine, he played more like Slavko Vranes (a 7'5 scrub) than Yao Ming, but you can blame Evans' injury history for that. He plays like a pro when he's not injured.

18. ORL 6'4, 202lb, SG/PG WHITMAN BOOTH
One word. Shooting. Booth is an excellent shooter for an 18-year-old and can continue to improve on other facets of his game, like his rapidly improving transition offense. He is a sufficient ballhandler and has above average court vision and athleticism, but his rebounding and defense need work. A lot of it. The Magic could very well have the next Anthony Morrow.

19. HOU 6'6, 191lb, SG/PG GRANT HENLEY
In contrast to Booth, here's a combo guard with a rock solid commitment to defense and rebounding, but lacks on the offensive end. He is very turnover-prone and has range out to only around 15 feet. When you are a small, skinny combo guard, those are the two traits you do not want. However, his defense makes up for his offensive woes, and Henley should be a solid rotation player by next season.

20. IND 6'6, 225lb, SF/SG OSCAR ROGERS
Oscar Rogers is a poor man's Nicolas Batum. He hits his shots when they come, and has athleticism that he is not afraid to use. A well above average rebounder, 6'6 Oscar Rogers could very well lead his Pacers in rebounding, as Brook Lopez and Andrea Bargnani start at the 4 and 5. If he starts, Rogers should be a lock for 10 points and 6 rebounds, but needs work on defense if he wants that starting job.

21. GSW 7'0, 260lb, C/PF IAN MAY
Ian May may have a defensive game somewhat comparable to that of Dwight Howard. He was a lockdown defender with an excellent post game in college, but it remains to be seen if that will transfer to the NBA. The offensive-minded Golden State Warriors will definitely welcome his offense, but his defense and rebounding will play key roles in their success in the future. The main problem in his game is he is consistently in foul trouble and can't seem to play 40 minutes without racking up six fouls. Injuries might shape (or destroy) his career as well.

22. PHX 6'0, 200lb, PG AARON INGRAHAM
Aaron Ingraham is an outstanding shooter from outside, mid-range, and at the charity stripe. He's an excellent ball-handler and a great passer. He steals the ball well, but the remainder of his defense is poor because of his size. At only 6'0, his lack of a solid vertical jump will cause him problems down low, and he'll also have problems shooting over bigger guards. However, he is a very good decision-maker on the court and has drawn many comparisons to Steve Nash. Ingraham could be the steal of the draft, and in a couple years, he could be a serious All-Star candidate, possibly making him a real steal.

23. LAL 6'11, 218lb, C/PF COTHRAN RAMEY
The Lakers probably have just picked the next Channing Frye. More suited to playing power forward, the 6'11, 218 pound Cothran Ramey is very skinny for a center, has range out to the perimeter, and is a mediocre rebounder and defender. However, Ramey has a decent post game, and if he adds another 20 pounds of muscle, he could be a force down low for the Lakers.

24. CLE 6'4, 210lb, PG/SG JONAH IVAN
Jonah Ivan has been drawing Jrue Holiday comparisons since high school. He's a guy who can run the floor well, can hit the open man with the perfect pass, and will contribute well on both ends of the floor. He may not be the best shooter in the draft, but he has excellent shot selection, and will not unneccesarily take shots. However, he sometimes passes too often, which may not be a bad thing if he plays alongside Deron Williams.

25. CHA 6'10, 240lb, C/PF ADAM ZOLLER
Zoller was possibly college basketball's best big man defensive specialist last season. He comes into the NBA already being known as a premier defender and a strong rebounder. Zoller may not be the most athletic big on the court, but his IQ is off the charts and he uses that to his advantage of both ends. His offense still needs work, as well as his ball security in the paint. He may not have a lot of time before he reaches his prime, as he is already nearing his 24th birthday, making him the oldest player in the draft.

26. CHI 6'9, 245lb, PF/C VINCE YOUNG
Here's another tough defender with solid rebounding technique. Young is a lot more athletic than Zoller, but is even more raw on the offensive end. However, Vince Young is 19 and has a lot of room to grow. He was drafted mostly on potential, but has drawn Taj Gibson comparisons.

27. DEN 6'4, 210lb, PG/SG ANTHONY DICKERSON
Dickerson is yet another defensive specialist. A-Dick is a sharpshooting point guard, who has spent the last four years guarding whoever he has been asked to guard. Despite his size, he can guard small forwards with ease, and can contain guards completely. He's definitely the guy this offensive-minded Denver Nuggets team wants coming off the bench.

28. OKC 6'8, 220lb, SF/SG OLIVER WILLIS
Another guy drafted on potential, Oliver Willis is a high-flying energy guy who will play a few minutes, score a few points, defend a bit, maybe rebound the ball a couple times, and then head back to the bench. While Oklahoma's starting five can do all of this, their bench is lacking in places, and could use some help. Willis should be able to help, but seems more like Renaldo Balkman than anything else right now.

29. ATL 6'10, 265lb, C/PF TREVOR ANDREWS
Andrews is basically a big body. Yet another man drafted on potential, Andrews should be able to play behind Dwight Howard short-term, but it's not out of the question to see him start for another team in a couple years. Right now, he is a project. A BIG project. Scouts have noticed similarities in the offensive games of Andrews and Ian Mahinmi, which could be a good thing, because Mahinmi could be poised for a breakout season in the next year.

30. DAL 6'5, 200lb, SG/SF/PG DEVON TURNER
Nothing in Turner's game stands out, but there are very few things he can't do. He's capable on both ends of the floor, and is decent on the glass for a guy his size. He's a versatile scorer, and a good defender, but he's rather small for a swingman. There have been a lot of Stephen Jackson comparisons, on the court, and unfortunately, off it as well. If the Mavericks ever needed a ball-handler, Turner can play the 1 for a short stretch of time, although his decision-making is questionable at best. His ideal role on a team would have to be an eleventh or twelfth man on a contender, which is exactly where he is right now. He is likely the last rotation player for the defending champions.

31. MIA 6'8, 273lb, PF/C STUART JACKSON
Not a lot is known about Stuart Jackson. There's been a lot of guessing, and a lot of weird comparisons that have been drawn. A poor man's Aaron Carter (taken 13th) seems like a solid comparison, but some have called him the next Zach Randolph for his knack for getting tough rebounds without relying on athleticism. However, Jackson has little to no offensive game at this point, and to say that he will ever get enough minutes to put up Zach Randolph-esque numbers, would be quite a stretch right now. Jackson is only 20 and has a lot of room to improve. He will need to if he wants to crack Miami's rotation.

SECOND ROUND:
1- C. Anderson (PF) [NOH]
2- T. Edwards (SG) [DET]
3- J. Robinson (PG) [UTA]
4- T. Jefferson (PF) [NYK]
5- J. Cotter (SF) [NJN]
6- C. Gallagher (SG) [WAS]
7- L. Jones (C) [MIN]
8- A. Ledford (PF) [MIL]
9- S. Ness (PG) [MEM]
10- A. Emmanuel (PG) [TOR]
11- E. Butler (C) [BOS]
12- S. Benzer (PG) [PHI]
13- M. Thompson (PG) [POR]
14- A. Armstrong (SG) [LAC]
15- F. Johnson (C) [SAS]
16- N. Horry (SG) [SAC]
17- T. Hewitt (C) [NCD]
18- T. Armstrong (SF) [ORL]
19- J. Williams (SG) [HOU]
20- C. Garren (SG) [IND]
21- M. Nabokov (SF) [GSW]
22- B. Butler (PG) [PHX]
23- L. Hunter (PF) [LAL]
24- P. Winter (SF) [CLE]
25- T. Brewer (PF) [CHA]
26- R. Wagner (SG) [CHI]
27- V. Rogers (C) [DEN]
28- K. Taylor (C) [OKC]
29- D. Hardaway (SF) [ATL]
30- FORFEITED PICK- ROSTER FULL[DAL]
31- R. Carter (PG) [MIA]




DRAFT-DAY TRADES:

New York sends 1st pick (Evan Fields), Juan Carlos Navarro, and Jermaine O'Neal to Philadelphia for Predrag Morinoskovic, Jackie Butler, and Craig Brackins.

New Orleans sends 3rd pick (Ronny Ramos), Jared Lindsey, and Peja Stojakovic to North Carolina for Christopher Henderson, Alexander Henderson, and Nene.

Sacramento sends 16th pick (Ricky Richardson), Brandon Rush, and Dominique Jones to Orlando for Marcin Gortat, Matt Barnes, and Roger Mason.

Oklahoma sends 28th pick and Marcus Williams to Boston, Boston sends Grant Wheat and Cole Aldrich to LA Lakers, LA sends Mareese Speights to Oklahoma City, and LA sends Trey

Johnson to Boston.

Memphis sends 10th pick (Ray Barrett), Andrei Kirilenko, and Brent Petway to Milwaukee for 9th pick (Tyrone Tyndell), Paul Millsap, and Drew Gooden.







Retiring Players:
Several NBA veterans announced their retirement in the last few days. Celtics center Chris Andersen retired at age 35, Portland center Marcus Camby retired at age 39, and Nuggets forward Kenyon Martin retired at age 36. Also, 35-year-old guard Eddie House retired a member of the Rockets.

In addition, several free agents announced their retirements from basketball. 38-year-old centers Mikki Moore, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and Raef LaFrentz retired, along with point guards Brevin Knight (37), Rafer Alston (37), Will Solomon (34), and Derek Fisher (39).

Derek Fisher also stepped down as the president of the NBPA, handing the reigns to Mavericks guard Chris Paul. Fisher will have his #2 jersey retired by the Lakers after playing key roles with five Laker championship teams.

Zydrunas (Big Z) Ilgauskas will have his #11 jersey retired by the Cavaliers after being an iconic 7'3 center an two-time All-Star with the franchise for 14 seasons.


RE-SIGNINGS:

Dwight Howard (ATL): 7 years/$114M
Kendrick Perkins (BOS): 3 years/$13.5M
Kevin Garnett (BOS): 1 year/$1.8M
Sam Saxon (BOS): 1 year/$2.6M
Gerald Wallace (CHA): 1 year/$7.9M
Josh Smith (CHA): 3 years/$37.5M
Stephen Jackson (CHA): 1 year/$4.0M
JJ Barea (CHA): 2 years/$9.0M
Martell Webster (CLE): 5 years/$22.5M
Richard Hamilton (DAL): 2 years/$2.2M
Jameer Nelson (DAL): 1 year/$4.0M
Blake Griffin (DEN): 6 years/$114M
Chauncey Billups (DEN): 2 years/$6.5M
Dorrell Wright (GSW): 1 year/$4.5M
Hassan Adams (GSW): 2 years/$3.0M
Kevin Martin (HOU): 3 years/$23.9M
Al-Farouq Aminu (LAC): 3 years/$13.5M
Al Jefferson (MEM): 2 years/$21.0M
Alex Phillips (MEM): 5 years/$9.7M
Jrue Holiday (MIA): 4 years/$23.0M
Ricky Davis (MIL): 1 year/$880K
Gabe Pruitt (MIL): 1 year/$2.3M
Robby Edwards (MIL): 4 years/$4.0M
Wilson Chandler (MIN): 3 years/$20.3M
Johnny Flynn (MIN): 1 year/$1.8M
George Hill (NJN): 5 years/$32.9M
Marcus Marion (NJN): 3 years/$4.0M
Jerryd Bayless (NYK): 6 years/$40.5M
Jared Dudley (NCD): 4 years/$40.7M
Walter Herrmann (NCD): 2 years/$3.6M
Jackie Butler (PHI): 3 years/$4.5M
Steve Nash (PHX): 1 year/$3.6M
Tracy McGrady (PHX): 1 year/$1.3M
Demarcus Cousins (SAC): 5 years/$26.0M
Manu Ginobili (SAS): 2 years/$2.2M
Linas Kleiza (TOR): 1 year/$1.5M
DJ White (WAS): 4 years/$18.0M

[Mavs4Life]

DALLAS YES!! First sim champ I've seen them take here.

[rise]

OH YEAH BABY!! RING

Congrats on the ring, Thierry.

DALLAS YES!! First sim champ I've seen them take here.

With such a crazy roster, how couldn't they win?

Once my workload slows down a bit (probably this weekend), I'll post a few updates. I realize it's been awhile. I've had a pretty insane week... or three.

[rise]

Domination and Hornets Agree On Trade- Superstar On The Way To NC?
The Henderson brothers lasted just one year in North Carolina before being traded out, along with Nene, to the bottom-dwelling New Orleans Hornets for their 3rd overall draft pick. In a draft with several sure-fire superstars, the Domination gave up a ton of assets, including two of last year's first round picks and an established center in Nene. The Domination receive Peja Stojakovic and Jared Lindsey along with the draft pick.

Sources say the Domination expect forward-center Ronny Ramos to still be on the board after Philly and New Jersey make their picks. The Sixers are expected to draft either Philip Griggs, a small, but amazing scoring two-guard; Evan Fields, the all-around stud who was clearly the best player in college basketball last year; or Emery Ramsey, a lockdown defender who will immediately make opposing swingmen have nightmares whenever they play against him. The Sixers have reportedly decided against drafting Ramos due to injury concerns. If Fields is on the board, the Nets have made it clear they will draft him, and despite being in need of a star center, they are unlikely to draft Ramos.

If Ramos is still available, it is more than likely the Domination will take him at #3. Ramos, prior to an ACL injury, was a hyper-athletic, 7-1, 230-pound, offensive genius, with great defensive potential. His super-long arms make him a great shot blocker, and he has great range on his jump shot, which extends almost all the way to the three-point line. He would likely play alongside Tyson Chandler, making probably the most unguardable frontcourt duo in ages. Ramos, when healthy, is likely a legit superstar in the NBA. When asked whether Ramos is worth the risk of being the next Greg Oden, Domination GM Zee Otoo claimed, "I would risk anything for this guy. If Shaq lost about 120 pounds, extended his range, and knocked down 90% of his free-throws, he would be Ronny Ramos. Guys like that don't come around very often in this league. The injuries don't bother me too bad, as I think we have the best medical staff in the NBA. Like I said, I'd risk anything for a guy like this to play for us. I can't wait to draft him."

[rise]

Actual draft results, draft day trades, list of retiring players, and list of players who re-signed with their teams in the first post of the page.

I realize it's been a long time since I did an update. I've been busy with work, college, life, and basically everything else. Since I'm home the next few weeks with nothing to do, I decided it's time to finally post some updates. Hype this up again, and we can get started with Season 4 really soon!

[Radioman]

Glad to hear you still have some time for the Domination. Looking forward to some updates

[rise]

Thanks! More to come, I promise.

[Bulls#1]

Wow man didn't know you will still continue this I was following this back then when I was not a member

[rise]

Jared Dudley and Walter Herrmann Re-sign With Domination

On the first day of free agency, North Carolina forwards Jared Dudley and Walter Herrmann have agreed to terms with the Domination. Dudley stated, "I'm glad to be back in North Carolina. There's no place I'd rather be, and no team I'd rather be playing for. I'm ready to lead this team to a championship." His contract runs for four years and will pay him 10-11 million dollars per year for a total of $41M. Dudley reportedly turned down a six-year, $75M deal from the Clippers and a three-year, $45M deal from the Rockets to stay in North Carolina. Dudley's former team, the Phoenix Suns also offered a six-year deal worth close to $70M. Dudley averaged 24.0ppg, leading the Domination to the playoffs.

Herrmann, who recently celebrated his 34th birthday, also turned down higher offers in order to stay with the Domination. Herrmann will be paid just $3.6M over the course of two years, despite being offered nearly $10M over two years by teams like the Grizzlies and the Wizards. "I couldn't see myself in another jersey. I started my NBA career in this state [with the Bobcats in 2006], and I want to finish it here as well. I want to win a ring before I retire, and I feel we have a pretty good chance in the near future." Herrmann may be aging quickly, but it's clear he has plenty left in the tank. The 34-year-old three-point specialist jokingly says he has "another ten years in the tank. I'll play till I'm 45." Herrmann will likely come off the bench this season behind NC's dominant front line of Tyson Chandler, rookie Ronny Ramos, and Jared Dudley.

[rise]

ALL FREE AGENT SIGNINGS:

TONY PARKER -> Spurs [3 years/$27.0M]
ERIC GORDON -> Kings [4 years/$41.4M]
DANILO GALLINARI -> Timberwolves [3 years/$20.3M]
DEVIN HARRIS -> Timberwolves [2 years/$12.7M]
ACIE LAW -> Domination [3 years/$6.8M]
RICKY RUBIO -> 76ers [6 years/$35.0M]
JAVALE MCGEE -> 76ers [3 years/$19.9M]
LOU WILLIAMS -> 76ers [3 years/$6.8M]
DANIEL GIBSON -> Magic [5 years/$22.0M]
PAUL MILLSAP -> Bucks [3 years/$22.5M]
LAMAR ODOM -> Heat [2 years/$7.1M]
NICOLAS BATUM -> Hornets [3 years/$18M]
GREG ODEN -> Trailblazers [3 years/$13.5M]
DEMAR DEROZAN -> Kings [4 years/$31.1M]
JORDAN WILLIAMS -> Spurs [3 years/$6.5M]
JOEL ANTHONY -> Celtics [4 years/$6.6M]
CHRIS KAMAN -> Raptors [2 years/$8.8M]
BRANDAN WRIGHT -> Jazz [3 years/$6.8M]
GORDON HAYWARD -> Hawks [4 years/$17.5M]
TY LAWSON -> Hawks [7 years/$54.3M]
TIAGO SPLITTER -> Nuggets [2 years/$4.5M]
JJ REDICK -> Nuggets [4 years/$16.4M]
ADAM MORRISON -> Domination [2 years/$3.0M]
BRANDON BASS -> Cavaliers [3 years/$6.8M]
DEANDRE JORDAN -> Bulls [1 year/MIN]
KYLE LOWRY -> Pistons [4 years/$22.0M]
PAUL GEORGE -> Magic [6 years/$46.6M]
DAVID WEST -> Magic [2 years/$3.7M]
JASON SMITH -> Rockets [5 years/$7.3M]
HAKIM WARRICK -> Rockets [5 years/$7.7M]
YI JIANLIAN -> Lakers [1 year/MIN]
TERRENCE WILLIAMS -> Suns [2 years/$4.5M]
ELTON BRAND -> Thunder [1 year/MIN]
HEDO TURKOGLU -> Bobcats [3 years/$4.8M]
ZAZA PACHULIA -> Cavaliers [2 years/$3.0M]
EARL WATSON -> Pistons [1 year/$995.2K]
BARON DAVIS -> Warriors [2 years/$3.6M]
RAMON SESSIONS -> Rockets [2 years/$4.5M]
WILL BYNUM -> Rockets [2 years/$4.2M]
LARRY SANDERS -> Timberwolves [2 years/$4.5M]
BEN GORDON -> Pistons [2 years/$8.5M]
DONTE GREENE -> Rockets [5 years/$11.2M]
MO EVANS -> Lakers [1 year/MIN]
BLAKE AHEARN -> Lakers [4 years/$5.5M]
DEXTER PITTMAN -> Clippers [2 years/$3.0M]
DANNY GREEN -> Clippers [3 years/$6.8M]
TYSON SWEET -> Celtics [2 years/$5.2M]
KYLE ANTHONY -> Bucks [4 years/$8.3M]
SHAUN LIVINGSTON -> Suns [2 years/$9.0M]
DARREN COLLISON -> Kings [3 years/$13.5M]
AVERY BRADLEY -> Kings [7 years/$22.7M]
KYLE KORVER -> Celtics [4 years/$6.5M]
FRANCISCO GARCIA -> Celtics [3 years/$3.5M]
MORRIS ALMOND -> Warriors [2 years/$3.0M]
KELENNA AZUBUIKE -> Warriors [2 years/$3.0M]
JOHN BROCKMAN -> Thunder [3 years/$4.5M]
KOSTA KOUFOS -> Thunder [3 years/$5.2M]
RENALDO BALKMAN -> Warriors [2 years/$3.0M]
JASON THOMPSON -> Nets [3 years/$6.8M]
PATRICK PATTERSON -> Nets [2 years/$3.0M]
LEANDRO BARBOSA -> Nuggets [2 years/$4.2M]
ERIC MAYNOR -> Timberwolves [4 years/$9.0M]
OMRI CASSPI -> Timberwolves [4 years/$9.0M]
ERIC BLEDSOE -> Thunder [3 years/$6.8M]
MATT BARNES -> Magic [2 years/$2.5M]
DARIUS WASHINGTON -> 76ers [2 years/$4.5M]
JOSE CALDERON -> Trailblazers [1 year/MIN]
PATRICK O'BRYANT -> Bulls [1 year/MIN]
DANTE CUNNINGHAM -> Bobcats [3 years/$4.5M]
VINCE CARTER -> Hawks [2 years/$2.2M]
RONNIE BREWER -> Domination [2 years/$4.5M]
DAMION JAMES -> Nets [1 year/MIN]
ED DAVIS -> Knicks [3 years/$4.5M]
QUENTIN RUCKER -> Bucks [5 years/$9.7M]
KIRK HINRICH -> Heat [1 year/MIN]
JORDAN FARMAR -> Grizzlies [3 years/$6.8M]
ZOLTAN WALGAS -> Raptors [7 years/$18.9M]
ELIOT WILLIAMS -> Nuggets [2 years/$3.0M]
LUCAS BLACK -> Pacers [7 years/$16.5M]
CEDRIC SIMMONS -> Rockets [4 years/$6.0M] (waived Andre Miller)
ALEKSANDAR PAVLOVLIC -> Clippers [2 years/$3.0M] (waived Brian Cook)
NIKOLA PEKOVIC -> Pistons [2 years/$3.0M] (waived Mike Sweetney)
RONNY MCELWRATH -> Domination [2 years/$3.7M]
TERRNECE ANDERSON -> Lakers [2 years/$3.0M] (waived Steve Blake)
TARENCE KINSEY -> Lakers [1 year/MIN] (waived Mo Evans)
MALIK HAIRSTON -> Domination [2 years/$3.0M]
MICHAEL SNOW -> Jazz [2 years/$3.7M]
JOSH MCROBERTS -> Raptors [3 years/$4.6M]
KYRYLO FESENKO -> Jazz [3 years/$3.0M]

[Radioman]

I can't believe Walter Herrman is still playing in the NBA in this one.

So he got another 10 years in the tank? we will see. I hope you can return to the Playoffs and maybe a bit further.

[rise]

I can't believe Walter Herrman is still playing in the NBA in this one.

So he got another 10 years in the tank? we will see. I hope you can return to the Playoffs and maybe a bit further.

NBA Live's aging system has been pretty kind to Walter so far. Most 34-year-old's ratings have plummeted. He's not getting very far off the ground anymore, but his shot is as good as it's ever been.

Wow man didn't know you will still continue this I was following this back then when I was not a member

Always good to hear. Hope you enjoy the rest of this!

[rise]

2013-14 Offseason Trades

CHA gets: Zack Evans [NCD] (76), Ronnie Brewer [NCD] (76)
NCD gets: Darko Milicic [MIN] (71), Ian Mahinmi [CHA] (76), Kyle Anthony [MIL] (74), Ricky Davis [MIL] (70)
MIN gets: Luis Scola [NCD] (70), Adam Zoller [CHA] (73)
ORL gets: Roger Mason [MIN] (71)
MIL gets: Jared Lindsey [NCD] (75), Peja Stojakovic [NCD] (71)

SAS gets: Delonte West [TOR] (75), Jameer Nelson [DAL] (79), Antoine Wright [DAL] (72)
DAL gets: Chris Kaman [TOR] (75), Rodrigue Beaubois [SAS] (80)
TOR gets: Valdis Iesalnieks [SAS] (75), Jeremy Lin [SAS] (77)

GSW gets: Brandon Jennings (88), Jeremy Evans (73), Anderi Kirilenko (79)
MIL gets: Stephen Curry (89), Darrell Arthur (77), Vladimir Radmanovic (69)

NYK gets: Tayshaun Prince (77), Brendan Haywood (73), Luke Babbitt (75)
POR gets: CJ Watson (73), Taj Gibson (79), Beno Udrih (71)

MEM gets: Byron Mullens (67)
SAC gets: Stephen Graham (72)

BOS gets: Oliver Willis (73), Marcus Williams (75)
OKC gets: Nick Collison (73), Marreese Speights (74)

ORL gets: Brandon Rush (75)
SAC gets: Matt Barnes (72)

WAS gets: Juan Carlos Navarro (72)
PHI gets: Jamario Davidson (72)

[rise]

Top-to-Bottom: 2013-14 Opening Night Roster

Tyson Chandler [84]
At 7'1, Chandler's anchoring defense, solid rebounding ability, and efficient offense give opposing teams fits. Easily a top five center in the league, he has just turned 31 years old and is entering his thirteenth year in the NBA. He has not shown the slightest sign of aging yet and should be counted on for a nightly double-double with great defense.

Ronny Ramos [84]
Ronny Ramos, 7'1, 230 lbs, might be the most hyped rookie in the league. Acquired from New Orleans in a trade, Ramos has done nothing but impress every member of the Domination. A do-it-all guy who could probably play every position despite being more than seven feet tall, Ramos could be counted on for fifteen points, eight rebounds, and five assists as a rookie. Will he live up to expectations?

Jared Dudley [88]
As good as ever, Dudley is ready to record some big scoring numbers. Despite new additions, expect J-Dud to still be the first option on offense. He won't allow his man to score much either. "I've worked a lot on my D this summer. I'm not letting people score on me. Not in my house, not anywhere."

Rudy Fernandez [83]
Count on fastbreak triples and fadeaway mid-range shots from Rudy Fernandez, because his shooting touch is better than ever this season. Don't worry about his lack of defense, because the quartet of Chandler, Dudley, Harrington, and Ramos will likely be the top defensive quartet in the league.

Corey Harrington [87]
The Domination have to be really thankful that Harrington is back already from a torn MCL. While he may be still limited, he is in much better shape than most might think. He's not quite as explosive as before yet, but his dunks are still awesome, his D is just as good, and he's improved his shooting.

Bench Mob:
Ian Mahinmi [76], Walter Herrmann [76], Kyle Anthony [73], Adam Morrison [73], Acie Law IV [75]
Darko Milicic [72], Marcus Fucking Haislip [71], Ricky Davis [69], Malik Hairston [73], Ronny McElwrath [72]
This bench could beat some lottery teams. From Herrmann's threes to Kyle Anthony's jams, to Darko Milicic's shotblocking, to Acie Law's passing, to Adam Morrison's sheer awesomeness, this bench has everything you could want. A little more defense couldn't hurt, but the starting lineup has all the defense in the world.