I write this blog shaking my head in shock and disgust. Tim Roye just send me a text message - Baron goes to the Clippers.

Ouch! Less than 24 hours after opting out. Sounds fishy to me but the fact of the matter is that the GSW miscalculated the power of the player. This is a player\'s league and the player (especially the stars), hold the cards.

Now, in the span of 12 months, the Warriors have lost Baron and Jason Richardson, receiving only Brandon Wright as compensation. They obviously will match any offer for Monta Ellis but Ellis, despite the Warriors best efforts to play him at PG in the last month, is not a PG (not in the Parker, Paul or Ford mold). This is disasterous for the GSW - Mullin and Cohan have lots of egg on their face. One can say they are officially the laughing stock of the league.

Your thoughts?

Now GSW has to negotiate or they will be the laughing stock of the league.

The team has held a hard line with every player in the last 12 months in regards to extensions (i.e. Baron, Ellis, Biedrins, Pietrus, Barnes). Now the team\'s best player is forcing their hand. The GSW now faces multiple dilemnas:

1. Baron opts out and they get nothing in return or at best, minimal value for \'08 - \'09

2. GSW traded Jason Richardson last summer and then fail to act on the trade exemption of $10M, meaning the trade is basically Richardson for Brandon Wright

3. Monta Ellis is rumored to have been offered $100M from MEM - far more than the GSW wants to pay him.

4. Don Nelson did not agree to come back to coach a team that could be now forced to rebuild.

In summary, unless GSW antes up, they will lose their three best backcourt players in the last 12 months with perhaps only Brandon Wright to show for all their efforts.

The next couple of days will be very interesting.

Ok - GSW played an egg last Thursday night v. DEN. They were out-manned, out-worked and out-coached. But all is not lost.
HOU v DEN tonight is a must game for both teams. DEN is on a back-to-back after four straight road games. They come home and face a team that is well-coached and plays as a team. DEN is very talented but can be a bit schizo.

Prediction - DEN tanks tonight at home, makes the GSW - PHX game amazing intriques, entertaining and not to mention a must win.

Lets see what happens.

Here is a point to ponder (courtesy M. Oster). Given Nelson's inclination not to play rookies, how good would Monta Ellis be if he sat on Nelson' bench his rookie year?

From earlier this week:

"Denver is more talented than the Warriors but geez, they may be the dumbest team (poor decisions). DEN also has a tough schedule coming up...DEN has a tough road trip coming up (UTAH, GSW) and HOU at home. Plus, they are just dumb. Kenyon Martin is a stud but a dumb stud. JR Smith has hops but makes bad decisions. Same with Carmelo. They are talented and can beat anybody on any even night (including BOS) but they show little sign of handling adversity (evidence last night v SAC).

Well, DEN makes me look smart. After the 2OT lose to SEA, that clinches it. DEN is the dumbest team in the NBA. They are immensely talented but they are dumb. They also do not like each other very much. You can tell watching the way they play. Coach Karl has not control over Iverson, who is talented but VERY SELFISH. PHILA made a good decision to trade him and they are a BETTER TEAM for the decision (Billy King needs a job - any takers?). Camby is a nice defender but not Russell or Kareem as many make him out to be. Carmelo is not aggressive enough (he needs to call for the ball in crunch time, take the ball to the block and get two points or two FTs) and Martin and Smith hae little basketball IQ. Carter is dreadful, Atkins does not play, Nene is hurt and yes, an underachiever when healthy and Loisza (sp) is inconsistent. The only player who fully understands his role is Najera and he is limited offensively.

I like George but if they come in 9th, even with 409 - 50 wins, he needs a new job or a squad transplant.

Honestly, today's loss to NOR aggravates me. This was a game that the GSW had to win but lost for reasons that could have been avoided.

I understand that 76 games into the season is not the time to change your style but the breakdown of the GSW "run at all times and shoot when you think you can, no matter how dumb the shot" is officially broken.

I do not question effort (I rarely question effort of any NBA player) but I do question Don Nelson's coaching strategy. His team shot 3/29 (10.3%) from behind the arc. NOR did not have defenders with their hands in Harrington (1/7), Jackson (0/6), Davis (1/8) or Azubuike(1/8) faces.
The shot selection with this team was poor (as far as I am concerned, it is always poor) but the fact that players need to have their "legs" to shoot well and frankly, the "legs" are shot.

If I played, my legs would be shot if I played major minutes all season. Sunday afternoon, Nelson played Jackson 43 minutes, Harrington 39 minutes (he has no business playing 39 minutes), Davis 43 minutes and Ellis (he is a stud, sometimes I think he is tireless) 45 minutes, 10+ with five fouls.

Common sense tells me two things:

1. When the legs are shot, spread the minutes and use the bench. GSW had 32 bench minutes for five points (two in the last minutes).

2. When the legs are shot, drive the basket!!!! Use more players and go to the block. Get Brandon Wright minutes in the low post. Davis and Azubuike can give you production in the low post. Harrington actually played well in the block today.

The GSW will win 50 games and may very well not make the playoffs. If that is the case, I will spell out 10 reasons why and 80% of these reasons will come right back to the coach and his inability to play rookies, lengthen the bench and find a player who the team can trust in the low post.

This is not false bravado. Despite the 6 - 6 record over the last 12 games, the GSW will make the playoffs. Yes, the must win today in New Orleans (10am PT on ABC) but I do expect a win.

The last two weeks have been infuriating. The coach has over-coached and not adjusted correctly to game situations, the players have leg weary and some of the competitors (SAS and DEN (except last night's inexcusable loss to SAC) are red hot. But GSW has showed amazing resolve over the past two years. They pull off upsets and never let losing streaks occur.

Why will GSW beat out DEN and DAL:

1. Easier schedule than DEN and DAL

2. GSW is more talented than Dallas and the loss last week was a fluke due to several factors (fatigue, return of DAL star, on the road)

3. Denver is more talented than the Warriors but geez, they may be the dumbest team (poor decisions). DEN also has a tough schedule coming up.

I fully expect PHX to kick DAL badly this afternoon. Dirk is not healthy and even if he was, DAL cannot match up physically or talent-wise. DAL bench is not very good (even with Stackhouse, who is hurt. Upcoming games v. NOR and UTAH are automatic losses and PORT will not lay down like dogs.

DEN has a tough road trip coming up (UTAH, GSW) and HOU at home. Plus, they are just dumb. Kenyon Martin is a stud but a dumb stud. JR Smith has hops but makes bad decisions. Same with Carmelo. They are talented and can beat anybody on any even night (including BOS) but they show little sign of handling adversity (evidence last night v SAC).

GSW needs big games from Kelenna Azuibuike (who has played great!), Brandon Wright and, most importantly, Al Harrington for a win today. Harrington is playing hurt but GSW needs a better performance than his last three efforts.

More on this game later.

The last two GSW / LAL games have been spectacular. Beginning with the KOBE / JACK gunslingers expo Sunday night that resulted in a four point GSW road win, the two teams returned to the East Bay and gave us a thriller that resulted in a four point OT win for the LAL. After a 10 - 1 run by GSW in the last 2:26 drove the game into OT, the GSW were trailing by two with :04 left. The GSW run a clearout and Monta Ellis was tangled up with Derek Fisher. Fisher pulled Ellis to the hardwood but the foul was called on Ellis.

Oracle went ballistic and yes, the call was wrong. But my bigger question is: Why did JACK and DAVIS play 53 minutes, Ellis 50 minutes and for the LAL, Odom played 53 sensational minutes (21/21 w/5 blocks) and KOBE 52 minutes. This is not the playoffs. The goal is to make the playoffs. The level of play for GSW diminished in the second half. Why not rest DAVIS and JACKSON for five minutes and let them have fresh legs for the stretch run? Nelson has been successful coaching in an unorthodox manner, but at times he overcoaches. The loses to SAC, HOS and LAL occurred because he over-coached or was outcoached by Theus, Adelman and Jackson. The inability to adjust to zone defenses forces the GSW to launch from the outside. With no big man presence in the paint, the law of averages catches up to the GSW every time.

Therefore, the ref made a bad call but the game was decided by poor decision making by the home coach.

Stating the obvious, the LAL is on fire. With Kobe and Odom as feeders and really low post players, Gasol is playing exponentially better than at any time with MEM. Without Bynum, the LAL has three legitimate players who excel in the low block (KOBE, GASOL, ODOM). I cannot think of any team that has this many quality low post players. Coupled with the fact that all of these players can pass, I really do not see how LAL will not cruise to the conference finals. The only stumbling block is if they come in second in the conference and have to draw UTAH in the second round. UTAH is well coached and very physical – a tough match-up across all styles of play.

The West is good but the top four team in the West (LAL, SAS, NOR and UTAH) are in a different class than the other five contending teams. GSW has little low post play, DAL has the same issue, HOU is very good but they cannot sustain this level of play for an extended period of time and PHX underestimated the value of Shawn Marion. Boris Diaw is not 50% the player that Marion is and it shows evey game. DEN is talented, they play hard and very well could edge out PHX, DAL or GSW for a playoff spot, but they are first round fodder for SAS (despite last night's loss) or the LAL. All of the bottom five teams have to bring their "A" game every night to compete with the top. Nobody can sustain that level of play every night.

OK, lets get to brass tacks. In the NBA, teams that win in May and June have low-post games. Not one team in the last 47 years has won without a low post game. Even Jordan's CHIC teams had players (Jordan, Cartright, Grant, Longley) who could play in the low block.

Baron Davis is the GSW's only low post player. The next low post basket that Andris Biedrins and Al Harrington score this season will be the first one they score this year. Their points in the paint are on dump-offs or offensive rebounds.

Teams like GSW and PHX are very entertaining. However, they cannot win in the playoffs without a significant low-post presence. Stoudamire and Marion will play the low-post two-man game on occasion but not enough to be effective come playoff time.

Championships are won by teams that execute in the halfcourt offense. GSW and PHX play uptempo ball. Exciting brand of hoops that sells tickets, but does not yield banners from the rafters.

Your thoughts?

Just started working games again now that the GSW has returned from two extensive road trips.

When Tyson Chandler game into the NBA, he was raw. Talented but with little if any coaching. For five years in CHIC, he and Eddy Curry were unfulfilled potential. Well, in Chandler's case (Curry is still a stiff - thanks Isiah for killing my NYK ever so softly and methodogically), he is a beast of a presence in the paint. He is playing "lights out", averaging double-double's and altering a significant amount of shots per game. He is a young man's Alonzo Mourning (that is saying alot).

Last Friday night, Chandler played 41 minutes, scored 22pts, had 22 rebs (8 offensive), block one shot, altered about a dozen and had a =/- of 18 has the Hornets outplayed the GSW, winning 116 - 104 in a game that really was not that close. His counterpart, Andris Biedrins, scored 20 points (mostly garbage points, not one on a post-up move, grabbed 9 rebounds (nice number) but was a -20 in the +/- category.

The next night at PHX (easily the toughest back-to-back in the NBA), Chandler plays 37 minutes, scores 19 pts, 11 assts, leading NOR to a victory and a sweep of a three game west coast roadie.

Tyson Chandler has grown up and the NBA should take notice. Good coaching, good playmaking and effort are contributing factors.

NOH is a contender in this league because of strong inside play that is complemented by soon-to-be All-Star Chris Paul. This team can shoot, defend and move the ball around. The can post-up (something the GSW cannot do, with the exception of Baron Davis) and then kick the ball to Peja for open looks. If they can find more bench help, we will all read about the NOH come May (and maybe June).

It is hard to believe, but the GSW really plays a unique brand of defense. It is effective because they cause steals and convert the turnovers into points. If you do not believe me, the SAS will confirm my statement. In Tuesday's second quarter, GSW outscored SAS 30 - 12, breaking the game open with eight TOs that converted into 14 points. six different players had at least one steal in the first half alone! This is unheard of in OAK.

GSW has found more ways to beat opponents this season that in any of the 15 years I have been associated with the team. Since JAX has come back, GSW plays defense, causes a crazy number of TOs that they convert, makes FTs (unheard in the last 15 years), hits big FGs and "3s"and swarms the offensive glass. This is a different team that Nellie is used to showing the world. If they improve on the defensive glass and shot selection (Nellie encourage his players to launch from the concession stands if they wish), they could contend for a top four (4) seed in the Western Conference). Now, if Pietrus would just go to the damn rim more often (subject for next time).

I have great respect for Pat Riley. His record speaks for itself. He is a legend and as Shaq has proclaimed, the "godfather of the NBA". Speaking of Riley and Shaq, why didn't Shaq play after the 4 minute mark of the 3rd qtr. in last nights devastating loss to the GSW?

I ran a stat on every result of a Shaq touch on the offensive end of the floor during last night's game:

21 minutes
16 touches (only 16!!!!)
5/5 FG
4 forced fouls
3 offensive rebounds
1 assist

13 pts/10 rebs.

He played stellar defensive, changing at least three GSW shots in the first seven minutes of the third quarter before calling it a night. Or at least Riley calling it a night for him. Watching Shaq, he is downright pissed-off while sitting on the bench.

We all know that Shaq can be a liability late in games because he cannot shoot foul shots. However, MIA does not have a deep bench and Riley did not substitute in the 4th qtr. His five players on the floor were licking the dust off the mid-court stripe trying to stay with GSW down the stretch. GSW had a 24 - 7 run to take over the game. In the quarter, Baron Davis and Monta Ellis had 21 in the final period while Dwayne Wade, who finished with 33, had only 5 in the final period.

Now, if Riley looked at Shaq's productivity and did not rely on history (or over-coaching), playing Shaq in the 4th qtr. provides a defensive presence while also slowing the pace of the game down to a speed that helps MIA.

Shaq is still a productive player. He must play 30 minutes for MIA to compete. Last night was a night that Riley would just as soon forget.

Last month I wrote that we would know where the GSW stood on Nov. 29. Now that the date has passed, here is what we know.

1. GSW is relentless and filled with passion and heart
2. GSW team shoot FTs better than in the past.
3. GSW plays very good interior defense (something we have
not seen in over a decade). The defense on Yao last
Thursday as well as in SAC in the 4th qtr. was
exceptional.
4. Stephen Jackson is not just the heart and soul, he is a
damn good player.
5. Kelenna Azuibuike has plenty of game on both sides of
the court.
6. Monta Ellis is a better player this year.
7. Nelson is coaching out of his mind.
8. Home or Away, GSW will not be intimidated.
9. Andris Biedrins is one of the leagues most efficient big
men.
10. And, yes, Baron is Baron - surly as ever. An MVP
candidate who brings guts, attitude and game every
night!

GSW are four games better than where I thought they would be entering tonight's match v. ORL (a very very strong team). Can't wait for Howard v. Biedrins (who would have ever thought this would be a match-up of premier big men. Enjoy tonight's match-up. More tomorrow.

Two weeks ago, most experts were throwing dirt on the GSW grave. The GSW was 0 - 6, just off a bad loss to DET and getting to embark on a 5 game, 7 night east coast swing. The talk show hosts were blasting the daylight out of Baron and the troops. Guess what:

1. 11.16 - GSW gets first win v. LAC at home
2 11.18 - GSW gets first road win in TOR
3. 11.24 - GSW complete trip, wins 4 of 5 (lone lose to BOS - no crime here)

I predicted the GSW would be 4 - 8 after the first 12. I was wrong, they are 5 - 7, have won 5 of the last 6 and return to OAK to finish the month, beginning tomorrow v. PHX, then Wed at SAC and finally, a Thursday night showdown v. HOU, who broke a 6 game slide by blowing DEN out clear to Vail last night.

I wrote earlier this month that on 11.29 we would know more about the '07 - '08 GSW. I gotta tell you, my early forecast is that the future is bright and that a playoff seed is certainly in the mix.

Do not panic. Seriously. The season is 82 games, not 16 (see NFL). I predicted the GSW would go 1 - 6 in the first seven and I stand by my prediction. Tough schedule to start the season. No JAX, injuries, bad match-ups, adjusting to life without JRICH. GSW do not help the cause with poor shooting, bad decision making and the lack of strong inside play, not to mention zero killer instinct.

Last night v. DET was embarrassing. From a coaching standpoint, they lost not just because they cannot shoot FT and 3FG, but because they lack the discipline to stem runs, especially at the end of the half. The 10 - 3 DET run to end the half hurt BADLY.

My thoughts, basketball games are 48 minutes. Teams, especially sized-challenged teams like GSW, must not always play the same style for 48 minutes. Sometimes, you need to run 20 seconds off the 24-second clock. Slow the pace and not allow the run to happen. Go deeper on the bench during slower periods. KA and BD do not have to play the entire half. They were dragging and it showed in the performance.
SAS and DAL does this better than most NBA teams. Make the opponent (esp. the one who is getting their butt kicked), conform to your style - do not ever give them a chance to begin a momentum-changing run. Make the opponent go into the locker room at half-time thinking that they are out-matched and have little if any chance to win. Do not give them hope of a comeback.

Killer instinct is a mind-set, not a physical presence. If GSW showed more of a killer instinct, they would win games like last night v. DET.

I am asked this question all the time. All my friends want to know who is the player I would choose to build my team around. And, of course, when I tell them his name is not LeBron, Dwayne, Kobe, Tracy or Stephon (just kidding), I am told that I have no idea what I am talking about.

Well, here is my criteria:

1. Player have to play with your back to the basketball
2. Player must be aggressive
3. Player have to average 20pts/10rebs and change the opponent's shot selection.

Right now, only four players in '06 - '07 will fit this bill.

a. Tim Duncan
b. Yao Ming
c. Kevin Garnett
d. Carlos Boozer
e. Dwight Howard

Of all of these players, I would choose Duncan because he is so efficient, consistent, fundamental (thanks Shaq) and he is a proven winner. Four (4) titles in ten (10) years as the undisputed leader of his team. And he has a solid five (5) years remaining, so at his rate, add two (2) more titles. That works for me.

Yao has become the best pure center in the league - he does so much every night and just gets better. HOU is my pick for NBA champ this year and he is the reason why. KG is great and now he is in a position to really compete for a championship (his MINN teams of a few years ago were total pretenders). Boozer is very underrated - he can score, rebound, intimidate, run the floor and play excellent defense. UTAH is no fluke and he is the reason why they are so good. Howard is a marvel. Reminds me of Hakeem and Malone combined into one body. ORL is two players away, but free agency has a way of changing the destiny of a team. ORL will be a champion within three (3) years if they can find a real shooter (not JJ Redick) and one other 15pt - 18pt scorer.

And no, Isiah, Eddy Curry of the Knicks does not make my list. Sorry!

BOS is for real. Unselfish play by the Big 3 this early in the season will bode well for them down the road. Getting players like Rondo and Perkins in the offensive flow makes BOS dangerous...NJN, despite injuries to Kidd and VC, are 4 - 1 (one loss a home blowout v. TOR. This is a good team and as long as Kidd runs the show, Frank calls the plays and Thorn oversees the operation, they will be competitive... ATL is for real - big wins v DAL and PHX are evidence...WASH is in trouble; Gilbert came back too early... Do not count out MIA, D WADE is one of the top five players in this league and he is good enough to will MIA to a lower seed...Good to see Adonal Foyle in the rotation for ORL...INDY loses IKE for six weeks will hurt, but Dunleavy, O'Neal, Tinsley and Granger will carry this team. IKE will end up making INDY forget about Al Harrington...NYK, despite the incompetent Isiah Thomas, has enough talent to gain a lower seed...Lebron hits a game-tying "3" with 10 seconds left v. UTAH, then CLEVE lets D. Williams dribble the length of the court for a game-winning layup. No defensive - disgraceful.

You want playoff intensity in Nov? Well, you got it last night in OAK with the DAL/GSW matchup. GSW goes into the game 0 - 4 and in need of a positive, anything positive. Nelson held nothing back, playing both Baron and Monte 47:55 minutes of a possible 48 minutes. GSW bench minutes amounted to less than 25 in total.

There were 25 lead changes and 12 ties. DAL prevailed at the end 120 - 115, but no one felt shortchanged or cheated.
Baron Davis and Keleena Azubuike were off the charts (KA had an offensive rebound/dunk that was one of the best I have seen on the 300+ games I have ran talent stats. Jim Barnett concurred on this fact - sensational athletic play!).

DAL is still a very good team. GSW is shorthanded. But GSW, have no fear, this is the hard part of the schedule. If the GSW can be around .500 at the All Star break, they will be just fine.

And hitting a few foul shots would not hurt either.

Anybody who knows me will acknowledge that I am a Mike Dunleavy advocate. I know dozens of GSW fans that really believed that he stunk. I defended him - he has skills, just in the wrong system. I said that if he played for Jeff Van Gundy, he would be a 20/6/6 player.

In IND, he has started off strong through two games and IND is 2 - 0, including a 1 pt win over MIA last night.

Prediction - Dunleavy is a 18/6/6 player who, along with Ike Diogu, will justify the trade that has already paid dividends for the GSW.

Yeah, starting off 0 - 2 hurts, but it should be no surprise. UTAH is a bigger, stronger and more talented team than the GSW (see last year's playoffs). UTAH outrebounds GSW Wednesday by almost 2 - 1 (again no surprise) and I expect the same again tonight in UTAH when the two teams play for the second time in four nights.

As for last night for LAC, this is where the GSW really miss JAX. His leadership and defense were sorely missed. The seven game suspension is tough, especially when they face UTAH 2x, LAC 2x, DAL, CLEVE and DET. Only the LAC home game in two weeks should be considered a "W". DAL, CLEVE and DET, whether home or on the road, are especially tough. Obviously, the schedule maker did the GSW no favors starting the season with all of these tough home games, especially when JAX is under suspension.

JAX returns on the 18th, just in time for a five game road trip to TOR, NYK, BOS, PHILA and WASH. If the GSW can come away from the first 12 games, 4 - 8, I will be happy. Anything better than 4 - 8 is gravy. But, I will tell you that is does not get any easier when they return to CA, with three games in four nights v PHX, at SAC, then home for HOU.

Last year, GSW battled adversity well. We will know a ton about this season's GSW come November 29.

For more NBA information, please visit by stats blog at http://nbastatman.blogspot.com/ or email me at nba@allan-brown.com

Here are my playoff picks:

East
Division Winners

BOS
CLEVE
MIA

Other playoff teams - NJN, WASH, DET, TOR, ORL

WEST
Division Winners

PHX
SAS
DEN

Other playoff teams - HOU, UTAH, LAL, GSW, DAL

Finals - HOU v DET

Winner - HOU

Today's Ricky Davis for Antoine Walker deal intrigues me. I remember when Ricky played for Pat Riley. When Riley traded him, Davis ripped Riley five ways to November. Now he brings him back. Dwayne Wade must be hurt more seriously than the MIA are telling us. The other guys in this trade a salary cap fillers to make this trade work.

To me, it is really a non-event. MINN is lottery bound and MIA will be competitive if Davis plays defense. And, believe me, he will play defense for Riles or he is on the next plane to Istanbul.

The first time I saw Mickael Pietrus take the court for the GSW, they were playing against Baron Davis' Hornets. Pietrus looked lost (he never seems fully at ease on the court) but his talent and potential was apparent. I saw him produce one of the greatest dunks I ever saw, then come back down court and play shutdown defense.

With Pietrus, you take the good and the bad. When he is focused, he is very good. But when he is playing in outer space, just take him out and send him to the next city. He is frustrating to watch. I have seen him play well against the NBAs elite teams, yet I saw him create a critical mental error that cost the GSW a game with MEM in 2005.

A major reason he did not earn a big contract was his erratic performance. This year, he needs to step out, especially with Richardson no longer with the GSW, and provide 25 - 30 minutes of inspired ball. He is capable, but now is the time to produce.

As a player:

1. Two-time NBA champion
2. Numerous All-NBA teams
3. Basketball Hall of Fame

As an administrator:

1. Fired as NBA GM of an expansion franchise that had only two good players in three years
2. Hired as the Commissioner of the CBA (I think he was a plant) who subsequently bankrupted the league and pocketed $34M.
3. Coach of an NBA franchise that, despite a strong talent base, was knocked out of the first round of the players three consecutive years.
4. Serving as President of the NBA's flagship franchise, fired four coaches, exceeded salary cap limitations, offered 3rd tier players 1st tier contracts, made questionable basketball decisions as the head coach and was found guilty of sexual harassment charges, costing his organization $11.6M.
5. Instigated a bench-clearing brawl that resulted in multiple players suspensions.
6. Has successfully managed to alienate an entire fan base of loyal basketball fans.

He is 46 years old - too old to play the game. Would you hire him as part of your management team?

The NBA 2007 -2008 season begins today for the GSW. Media day in Oakland, followed by a charter flight to Turtle Bay on the north shore of Oahu, HI for 10 days for blood, sweat and tears. All roster spots are filled, but the team will take four practice players who are there to audition for other clubs (NBA and European). During the 10 days at BYU-Hawaii campus, the GSW will spend three nights on Waikiki beach (one hour from Turtle Bay), preparing for two exhibition games v. the LAL. It was in Hawaii four years ago, when the GSW played the LAL, that Shaquille O'Neal called out Dr. Jerry Buss, asking for a contract extension, while running the court. This incident was the impetus, not Kobe Bryant alledged complaints, that led to O'Neal getting shipped to MIA. Let's see if there is any forthcoming drama this fall.

More later.

Tim Donaghypleaded guilty today. According to reports, there are no other NBA referees involved in this breach of trust. Now, after one month of what has been "hell" for David Stern and NBA security officials, the league can move forward. But now the NBA will be forced to install new safeguards to ensure that the sacred trust between the league, players and the fan base are not violated.

I hope that people will view breach as an isolated incident. While we may not all agree with the calls referees make, these men (and one woman) are of high integrity and character. Do not throw stones in their direction the minute a referee blows a charging call. Do not get belligerent when your hero gets his third foul in the first quarter and has to take a seat.

There will always be questionable calls. Donaghy indiscretions are isolated incidents. Let's now cease from wasting energy on the negative and turn towards an exciting '07 - '08 season.

Last night, the GSW announced that they have bought out the contract of C Adonal Foyle. Foyle has been a good soldier for 10 seasons, but unfortunately, he never fulfilled his potential.

I remember that his game improved vastly in his 4th and 5th seasons. I really thought that he would be a strong player on a club that would feature Gilbert Arenas and Jason Richardson. Unfortunately, I believe that injuries affected Adonal's progress. He had an elbow issue and a knee issue that limited his play during his 6th season (not to mention Erick Dampier's career year).

Adonal style of play did not fit Coach Nelson's up and down style. That is ok, on to bigger and better. But mark my words, Foyle will have success in this league as a 15 - 20 minute player on teams like Orlando, Miami, New York and Cleveland. He will land on his feet and do well in a defined role.

By coincidence, I was able to attend the NBA Summer League in LV last month. I was in LV with friends for a trip planned without knowing the NBA schedule (hard to believe knowing my passion, but it is true). When I found out, I headed to UNLV for some games and I must tell you, it was the highlight of the trip.

I saw six games - all were exciting. Attendance was slim (only 500+ per game and more than 50% were players, coaches and scouts). It is fun to watch a game speaking with legends like Tex Winter, Adrian Dantley and Mitch Richmond. The building was overrun with GMs, Presidents and Head Coaches.

I had some great NBA conversations with several folks but the most interesting dynamic (away from the great competition - no embellishment - these guys played ball) was walking the casino floor at the Mandalay and seeing coaches and established players (over 21) playing casino games while the under 21s (Odom, Durant, etc.) hanging by the elevators because they are too young to gamble and too young to drink. Most have been 20+ NBA rookies hanging by the elevators.

Anyway, more the the games in the next blog entry.

I'm back! The players may be on vacation, but my blog is back and open for business! I will be updating 2x week for the rest of the summer about NBA basketball, specifically the GSW, the NBA summer leagues, trades, rumors and all things that NBA fans want to know.

Come back and visit tomorrow for the latest NBA news.

Sorry, but a Super Bowl hangover in INDY is no excuse. Last night’s one-sided victory by the GSW (now 2 – 3 on the road trip) was not even close. GSW blew INDY clear back to Chicago. The stats will appear that the game was close until the end but the fact is that INDY laid an egg in what was billed as a match-up of the traded players. Troy Murphy was awful (3pts in 17 minutes), Mike Dunleavy was not much better and Ike Diogu (who can play in the low block) and Keith McLeod barely broke a sweat. Nellie’s presence must really scare the daylights out of Murphy. At least he cut his hair and does not look like a freak any longer.

Road trip winds up in MINN. Biggest game of the year (to date). GSW needs this conference win. Both Baron Davis and Monta Ellis (will be back in uniform). After this game, three very winable home games v. the eastern conference (CHIC (ending a long road trip), ATL and my beloved NYK) with one road conference game in DEN (back end of a back-to-back), always a challenge traveling to DEN for back-to-backs.

More later…

Apologies for the lack of updates. Between visitors and three business trips (one to China), free time has not been an ally.

All season, the GSW has had two major problems: 1) the inability to put together a string of victories aganist good teams and 2) inability to win on the road. While many will say that if they could have taken advantage of CHAR turnovers during last night's defeat in CHAR, they would be 2 - 2 on the current roadtrip, which heads into IND for a showdown with former GSW players Dunleavy, Murphy, Ike and McLeod. I take a different viewpoint; if Harrington did not make a terrific play at the end of the PHIL game, along with some help from the referee, the GSW would be 0 - 4 with 4 losses in 5 games. This team lacks consistency. Perhaps when Jason Richardson returns, they will have another accomplished scorer who can take the burden off of Baron Davis. I am waiting for that six game winning streak to happen. It better happen soon or they will need a telescope to see the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Let’s get realistic – now that the GSW has hit their first extended road trip of the season, the big question is whether or not they have the wherewithal to overcome adversity and win some games in some tough arenas. So far, on this six game road trip through three different climates, the GSW has put up the good fight, but have fallen short in both PHX and TOR. In both games, the GSW has been out-rebounded (a common theme these days, especially with a team that plays small and does not extend the bench) and really does not play very good defense. To win on the road, teams must slow the game down and play good defense. Unfortunately, this team reminds me of the mediocre days of Run TMC where Coach Nelson’s teams played more games with scores like 120 – 115 (see Sunday v. TOR) as opposed to games that are highly contested on the defensive end. Personally, I was never a huge fan of the Run TMC brand of ball that Nelson brought to Oakland in the late 80’s and early 90’s with a squad laden in offensive talent (Mullin, Richmond, Hardaway, Higgins and Marculionus (sp)) and not much rebounding or interior defensive. Unless this team buckles down on the defensive end, I expect more road losses, lots of offensive and at the end, a 41 – 41 run of the mill squad.

How would like to pack for a road trip during the month of December that takes you to the desert one night, then have to travel 3,000 miles away, across the border to the frigid shores of Lake Ontario for an afternoon game, then to the whipping winds of the Meadowlands (thank goodness for Sunday night in NYC)? It does not stop there; you end up having to break out the wool sweater for a night along the banks of the frigid Charles River before hiking to Disneyland and South Beach. How’s that for a road trip? Well, the GSW embarks tonight after a thrilling come-from-behind 109 – 107 home victory over HOU.

First the road trip – the GSW better be ready for one helluva ride the next eight days. Last year, the GSW went 0 – 5 and basically eliminated themselves from any serious consideration for the remainder of the season. This year, rest assured that Don Nelson will not let this team tank on this trip, no matter has crazy the extremes may be. The suitcase will be packed with wool sweaters, winter gloves and Speedos for that afternoon in PHX and that trip to South Beach (the most dreaded venue for NBA coaches).

Back to the court. In the last 2 games, Andris Biedrins has played nearly perfect basketball. At home Tues. night v. SAC, he goes 7/7 FG 6/6 FT (no typo here) for 20/13 in a blowout where the GSW played 6 players for 230 of 240 player minutes. Then Thursday night, he come off the bench (Adonal Foyle gets the start v. Yao Ming) and Biedrins goes 6/7 FG 3/3 FT (again, no typo) for 15/4. All this one week after he was embarrassed by Yao in Houston and was pulled by Nelson for “mercy”. GSW fans should be ecstatic about Biedrins play; he is a totally different player from his first two seasons, when he was totally lost on the floor, had no post-up game and could not break 50% from the line. Kudos to Biedrins for hard work to improve his game and to Coach Nelson for getting him prepared to play the best big man in the game, nine days after he was schooled.

More tomorrow.

Congratulations to the GSW! After tonight's 111 '“ 102 victory against the SAS (first SAS road loss of the season, the GSW has beaten the following upper echelon teams during the first month of the season: DAL, UTAH, SAS and DET. This is a big accomplishment for a team that notoriously plays poorly against teams that have strong half-court games. In tonight's win v. SAS, Andris Biedrins continues to secure his place as a legitimate low post player with 18pts, 15 rebounds and 6 blocks in 42 minutes. He stood up tall against the best big man in the league, Tim Duncan (22pts, 6 rebs, 6 blks).



This was a well-played game by both teams. GSW shortened the bench to eight players, with three playing over 40 minutes. SAS did the same with four of five starters plays 38+ minutes. Most importantly for the GSW, Mike Dunleavy has adjusted to coming off the bench and is making major contributions on both ends of the floor. I wrote in the beginning of the season that he should be a 20/6/6 player. He will not get the 20pts/game, but he is scoring more than 14/game in the last 5 and making contributions that do not show up in the box score. Last Monday v. PHX, he took 5 offensive fouls. He consistently is pushing the ball up the floor and has shown excellent play-making abilities in the absence of Baron Davis (ribs), taking the onus off of second year phenom Monta Ellis. Dunleavy still needs to understand that he needs to push the ball into the paint, especially when he enters games. He has a tendency to launch from behind the arc after entering the game, which brings few if any positives to teammates, let only himself. He is a better penetrator than jump shooter and he is not afraid to mix it up in the paint. He needs to get involved early and penetrating/dishing to the open man is his best way to make significant contributions. I am sure Don Nelson agrees. Next game '“ Wednesday v. IND at OAK.

Ben Wallace was benched at the start of the third quarter last night because he wore a headband, a violation of a long-standing team policy. This is one of the most ridiculous things that I have read in a long time. Give Ben and the rest of the world a break. Headband ban? Now, if he wore a skirt and pumps, I would be concerned. But a headban? hmmmm....

Was Saturday night a sign of great things to come?

The GSW frontcourt was outstanding last night, holding the highly praised UTAH bigman (Andrei Kirilenko, Mehmut Okur and Carlos Boozer) to 12 points total while scoring 53 of their own in a 91 – 78 victory in OAK. Of significance was the interior passing game by the GSW, something I cannot remember seeing in the 14 years I have been doing stats for GSW radio. Troy Murphy and Andris Biedrins played tremendous games (Biedrins has really stepped his game up – he is a legitimate threat at the “5”) and Matt Barnes showed Don Nelson and all in attendance why he deserves minutes. He is very athletic and not afraid to get his hands up on the defensive end. Biedrins and Murphy combined for eight blocks (Murphy rarely gets any blocks and he had three last night). UTAH came into the game with the Association’s best record and honestly, with the exception of a 10 – 0 run to end the half, were manhandled by the GSW frontcourt.

In summary, GSW has proven that they can beat any team in this league on any given tonight. Question is, can the GSW do it consistently and will the team rise to the task when the schedule takes them to the road, where the GSW have only played 4 of their first 14 games. Tomorrow night – Tim Duncan and the SAS come to town. This will be a doozy!

For more NBA information, please visit http://allan-brown.com/nba/nba.php or email me at nba@allan-brown.com. Feel free to drop me an IM at allanbrownsf (AOL AIM).

After two tough losses at home to PHX and DEN (both by 3pts), the GSW have a five game stretch that will be very tough. Currently at 7 '“ 5, GSW travels to DEN to complete the home and home, then return home for a big match-up Sat v. UTAH, followed by home games Monday and Wednesday and Saturday v. SAS, IND and NOK. These are huge games for the GSW, a squad that is banged up at the PG, SF and PF. Baron Davis is clearly not himself, trying to play through badly bruised ribs; Jason Richardson played his best game of the season Wednesday night v. DEN but clearly is not at full speed since knee surgery. JRICH just does not have the hops right now and is slow off the dribble and Troy Murphy has been tentative under the glass because of a broken nose. Keith McLeod and Zarko Cabarkapa are still not at full strength (ankle and back).

Despite all the injuries, the GSW needs to show more toughness under the glass. While Andris Biedrins has really picked up his game this year (fyi - so has Micheal Pietrus), the GSW cannot continue to make Reggie Evans and others from the same cloth look like Elvin Hayes. Evans banged an bruised the GSW interior defensive Wednesday night for 9pts and 14 rebs (most in the second quarter); he was the difference maker in the game. The GSW have a chance to rectify Wednesday's mistake tonight, a game I consider a 'must-win' road game, especially since the next four at home will be difficult games.

Anybody who knows me understands that I love the New York Giants and how much I love to watch them play – and I do watch every down.

Well, I have to do stats for GSW radio tomorrow, so I need to TIVO the game. Am I complaining – nope! I get to watch two teams who love to get up and down the court. This game will be very fun to watch.

Do not be deceived by PHX’s (3 -6) slow start. Tonight’s match-up against the athletic, versatile PHX will be a nice test for the 7 – 3 GSW. This year’s PHX squad is more athletic than the last two years, when they are arguably the most athletic team in the Association. This year, they have Amare Stoudamire back (not quite 100% but still rounding into shape) and have added nice pieces in Marcus Banks (stronger defender), Jalen Rose (solid all-round player) and Eric Piatkowski (shooter). Leandro Barbosa gets better every year and Kurt Thomas has returned from injury. And remember, they still have the Matrix Shawn Marion (why his name surfaces in trades in beyond my wildest explanation) and of course, two-time MVP Steve Nash. This team needs some time to jell and believe me, they will.

The floor leaders for both teams are game time decisions. Steve Nash (back) has missed the last two games, including an OT loss to 9 -1 UTAH (GSW opponent Saturday night in OAK). Baron Davis (bruised ribs) has been playing a ridiculous amount of minutes and is an early candidate for MVP. Davis is averaging 20.6/8.3 in just under 36 minutes per contest. However, GSW may have found another star to complement Davis and Jason Richardson. Monte Ellis has been lights out (sorry Shawn Merriman), averaging 17.5 pts per game in just his second year out of high school. Ellis is cat quick, aggressive and a good team players. After Davis went down Saturday v. SEA, Ellis took over and had a career high 31pts, 7 assts and 7 rebounds in GSW’s 107 -95 win in OAK. GSW is averaging 114. pts and are shooting 51.7% from the field in the last four games (all home wins). This week they play three more home games (PHX, DEN and UTAH, with a stop Friday in DEN.)

Now, take this for what is it worth; my interest Monday night is in the Andris Biedrins/Stoudamire match-up. Two years ago, this would be been blatantly unfair. However, Biedrins is averaging 8.5/8.7 as well as 2.2 blocks per game. More importantly, he is active around the basket defensively and runs the floor exceptionally well. It will be interesting to see how Biedrins fares against the athletically superior (even after microfracture surgery) Stoudamire. More on this one Tuesday.

For more NBA information, please visit http://allan-brown.com/nba/nba.php or email me at nba@allan-brown.com. Feel free to drop me an IM at allanbrownsf (AOL AIM).

Recently, I have read that Scott Skiles believes that Big Ben Wallace can be an offensive force. As part of this master scheme, he has juggled his starting line and now has PJ Brown and Ben Gordon coming off the bench.

That is an ill-advised strategy. Ben is not an offensive presence and never will be. Use his physical presence to set picks and screens for other players. He can make others better without the ball. He should be able to average 10 points off the offensive glass. He does not need to have the ball to be effective and the Bulls will not be effective if they believe that he has low post skills and run an inordinate amount of set plays for him.

PJ Brown provides a defensive presence, is a tough inside player who crashes the offensive glass. He is not a role player off the bench. As for Ben Gordon, he can shoot and is a tough matchup for most SG. He is not a streak shooter; he is the type of player that needs to find his groove. That is hard to do coming off the bench and being forced to adapt to the pace of the game.

I think Coach Skiles, who I think is a very good teacher of fundamentals (esp. defense), needs to re-evaluate his decision to change his starters. I will revisit this in a week with some analysis and comments.

Thursday night, Eric Musselman and his SAC Kings visit OAK for a national televised game v. GSW. Now remember, Musselman served as GSW’s head man for two season (’02 – ’03 and “03 – ’04). He left GSW under not so wonderful terms, despite the fact that GSW was a viable competitor during his tenure (38 - 44 and 37 -45 respective). Musselman is an intense guy who had fundamental disagreements with numerous players, namely Adonal Foyle, Jason Richardson, Troy Murphy and most notably, Mike Dunleavy.

As GSW coach, Musselman was caught in a tough spot – win now AND play young experienced talent like Mike Dunleavy and Micheal Pietrus or feel the wrath of management for not developing the young talent and not winning. He was unable to balance the two, which ultimately lead to his dismissal one month after Chris Mullin officially took over the reigns from Garry St. Jean as head of basketball operations.

Musselman should be proud of what he did with the GSW and hopefully he has learned how to delicately balance the expectations of management and the development/minutes of his roster. I wish him well with SAC – he starts off with a pretty good roster, fulled with a nice mix of veterans and young second and third year players. Ron Artest is a super player and when teamed with Mike Bibby, Shaaref Abdul Rahim and Brad Miller (out with injury) and upstart Kevin Martin, SAC is more than a formidable opponent for all teams, including SAS, HOU, CLEVE and other NBA elite.

Since the opening night debacle v. LAL, the GSW has played some pretty good basketball. They are now 5 – 3 after winning the first game of a 7 game home stand, beating the upstart TOR 110 – 99, creating the crest of an 18 -3 run in the 4th quarter. While the GSW are taking a beating on the boards (no shock here), the starting backcourt of Monte Ellis and Baron Davis are driving the GSW, using unique styles based on their physiques. Ellis, a second year player who came to the GSW straight from high school, is cat-quick (think Tony Parker and Devin Harris) with good court sense. He can break down a defender without issues and makes positive things happen in and out of the paint. Baron Davis, the seven year veteran from UCLA, is a more physical player and a superb defender. Davis came to Don Nelson’s GSW in better shape and has embraced his leadership role. He also is fierceless in the paint and has done a pretty job distributing the ball (7.9 asst/game). He is playing a crazy number of minutes (37/game; 3 games over 44 minutes), mostly because Jason Richardson is not 100% healthy (knee).

Ellis’ play should not be a major surprise to any GSW follower, but he certainly is turning heads around the league. Nelson knows that his decision making will get better, resulting in less turnovers and more trips to the stripe. Davis is working hard to shed his wrap as a locker room cancer and while he dribbles a bit too much (are your reading this Starbury?), he is making others like Andris Biedrins (more on him tomorrow), Ellis and Micheal Pietrus better players.

The GSW, with limited post play, is improving game by game and with Davis and Ellis firmly entrenched in the rotation, the GSW can be competitive with every team in the Association. It will be interesting to see how Nelson allocates minutes when Richardson is back in high gear.

Last night's game vs. NOK in OAK reminded me of the GSW under Mike Montgomery. The GSW shot well (51.3%) hit the foul shots (81.1% on 30 '“ 37), hit a high percentage from behind the arc (13 '“ 34 for 38.2%) '“ numbers that should spell ROUT! But the GSW beat the NOK 121 '“ 116. in a game that was decided in the last 30 seconds. Why?

Well, NOK outbounded the GSW 45 on the glass (20 '“ 7 on the offensive boards). NOK outscored GSW 58 '“ 38 in the paint. However, 19 NOK turnovers led to 30 GSW points while GSW only turned the ball over 12 times (10 pts). Baron Davis was on fire (36/9) with 0 turnovers, offsetting Chris Paul's career high of 34 point (with 10 assts and 6 turnovers). But the GSW scored 0 points on low post play. Basically, this means that when your team has no low post presence, you better shoot very well from behind the arc and foul line or the opposition better be off their game. In last night's game, both occurred and the GSW prevailed. But, as in years past, they will not win many games like this. They need to get better low block play from Troy Murphy, Andris Biedrins (19 minutes, 3 pts, 6 rebs. 6 fouls) and Ike Diogu (DNP '“ Injury) we will continue to say 'Same old Warriors'.

This is the first edition of Notes from Courtside, a look at intriguing facts and deep thoughts about today's NBA. Kick back, enjoy and let me know your thoughts...Andrew Bynum is playing out of his mind. He single handedly beat up the MINN tonight. His line is not a fluke (20/14 with three blocks in 29 minutes). The LAL is deep in talent and they are a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference...Steve Francis hurt his ankle and is out indefinitely. Do you think the NYK fans care? Not with Big Nate Robinson around to take his place. Francis will not be missed...Josh Howard is out for two weeks. DAL is 0 - 3. They need Josh Howard to be successful. Bad start for DAL...Speaking of DAL, did you see Baron Davis take Damp to the hole last night? Thing of beauty...New NBA season, same ole Shaq. Bet he does not play 60 games...SEA is 1-3 and has blown three 4th Qtr. leads...I like the Big Three for PORT (Jack, Roy and Randolph). This team will be a force in the Western Conference for years. Give them one more year to develop...Nice balance in INDY tonight - six players in double figures, none more than 16 in INDY win over PHILA. See you next week.

Despite a strong effort by the GSW, playing their 4th game in 5 nights (an NBA killer), the GSW fell to 2 – 3 Tuesday night, losing to the Oklahoma City Hornets 97 – 93. But, no matter how much heart GSW showed in the final game of a three game road trip, they stand no chance to win when the opponents outmuscle them 54 – 34 on the boards (21 – 9 on the offensive glass). At one point, the Hornets had 20 second chance points to the Warriors 2. I know that all the pundits are touting that the only way to win in this league is to run the other team out of the gym. In this case, the pundits are wrong. You cannot win consistently in this league unless you get to the rim and get there often. Successful teams bang the offensive glass hard. While Andris Biedrins is playing very well defensively for the GSW, he offers little offense and you can bet Coach Nelson does not run a set play for #15. Troy Murphy has played one solid offense game (Monday night in Dallas), but the GSW needs him to crash the offensive glass, a strong suit he has never quite developed. This team needs an inside presence more than ever, especially since Jason Richardson is playing at 75% with his ailing knee.

Tonight’s game was the first of a back-to back with NOK. Next game is Thursday night at the Oracle. Let’s see if they bang the glass just a bit more often.

Let’s hope not, but the GSW, at 1 – 2 , closely resemble last year’s model, not in the look of the roster, but in the actual scheme that the team plays. Saturday night’s blow-up in UTAH, coupled with the season opener massacre v. an injury-laden LAL (no Kobe, Kwame, Mihm, McKee, or Coach Jax) shared common similarities – inside soft play on the part of the bigs. Last year, this team was able to get away with soft inside play because Jason Richardson was scoring in the mid-20’s. But this year, JRICH is playing at 75% (if he is lucky) because of knee surgery and there is not another scorer on the team to pick up the slack. UTAH just outmuscled the GSW Saturday. This match was so bad that Coach Nelson threw in the towel early in the 4th Qtr.

I have a theory on injuries; if a guy is injured, he sits; if he is hurt, he can play. Murphy is playing soft with his broken nose and JRICH is just not ready. Therefore, Coach Nelson needs to sit down his two young veterans and play Ike Diogu, Monte Ellis, Andres Biedrins and DeJuan Wagner big minutes. All of these players bring energy and game to the court. More minutes for these four players mean more production on the court, not to mention less embarrassing results.

Front Loaded Schedule

If the GSW is going to be a contender for the 2006 – 2007 playoffs that begin in April, we will all have a pretty good idea by December 14 (HOU), when they finish their 16th home game in 23 matches. After that game, they embark on a six (6) game road trip to the east coast. This will be the first of three extended trips to the east coast, trips that have proven to be just brutal for the GSW.

Of the 23 games, only three are matches are against Eastern Conference opponents. The schedule maker gave the GSW five (5) back-to-back games in the first 23 games (20 back-to-backs in total) and only two (2) four (4) games in five (5) nights stints (the toughest schedule challenge NBA teams face.

The GSW last trip to the east coast ends on March 5 (DET). GSW finishes the season with five (5) of the last nine (9) on the road, including a three (3) games in four (4) night segment in HOU, MEM and SAN.

All in all – not a terrible schedule, especially with all the games frontloaded. If all goes well by Dec. 14th, GSW fans should have plenty to cheer about on their way to the first playoff berth since 1993 – 1994 (lost to PHX in three (3) games, when Charles Barkley toasted the GSW for 56pts in the Game 3 clincher in Oakland). Given the last 12 years, GSW fans just want to sniff the rare scent of playoff basketball. Look at Dec. 14th as the first benchmark for analyzing the successes/failures for the 2006 – 2007 season.

Last night, I was out on the town to celebrate Halloween. I wanted something easy to wear (not like the people who wear butterfly wings and take up half to room at the party/bar). I through on a GSW jersey and warm-up top and I swear, the I was approached by Mike the GSW lifer and Molly the GSW fanatic within the first five minutes in the bar. Of course, the talk began (and ended) with the GSW. When I told them of my affiliation with the team (radio stats man for 14 year, the backend the the Numbers King and Master of the Art Jeff Chapman), they wanted to speak more and in great detail.

This is all a good thing. But one thing they asked for, my prediction for the season. I hate predictions about a team. I will make predications about a player and his improvement, but never a team. Too long a season and too many factors to consider (injuries, chemistry, travel, schedule (not all schedules are equal)) for me to get into that stuff. I leave that to the beat writers and they do not want to write about that nonsense, their editors make them do it.

But since Mike and Molly asked, here are two easy prediction:

1. GSW will play very meaningful games in April.
2. The NYK will not play meaningful games in March or April (this pains me).

More about my love for the NYK and frustrations about Isiah Thomas and his ability to fall up next time.

Lots of been bantered in the papers and on talk radio about Adonal Foyle's contract and his inability to live up to expectations. I will admit that I have defended him, stating that I thought he had talent to be a better than serviceable center. Granted, Foyle has underachieved throughout his career. He has not proven to be a quality starter. However, defensively he can change games by his presence in the paint. I have seen him to this numerous times.

While many pundits love to potshot Chris Mullin for providing Foyle with a big contract, keep in mind that Mullin paid market rate for an NBA center. There are only 30 NBA starting centers in the league and he was compensated according to supply and demand, not performance. If he average 10/10 and blocked two (2) shots a game, GSW would have been a playoff team the last three (3) seasons. That did not happen and Foyle is the scapegoat.

Don Nelson needs to make a decision about how to use Foyle. I would be surprised, no matter how much more $$$ GSW has generated this office (ORACLE naming deal; more on-court seating), if the GSW eats his contract. Foyle can and will make a contribution on this team defensively, but Nellie, the master of the mismatch, needs to find a way to maximize Foyle's productivity.

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Since the day he first put on an NBA jersey, Mike Dunleavy has carried a heavy burden. The number three overall pick in 2002, a national collegiate champion at one of the nation’s top academic/athletic universities, not to mention the son of a scrappy, successful NBA player and coach, Dunleavy has lived under a microscope. Throughout his first four years in the league, he has shown signs of stardom, but his overall play has been inconsistent. Now, entering his fifth year and his first with a coach that will know how to get the most out of his abilities, I expect Dunleavy to shine.



Chris Mullin, a huge Dunleavy advocate, knew exactly what he was getting when the GSW drafted him. However, politics involving ex-coach Eric Musselman (Musselman did not want to play rookies - #1 reason for his dismissal), a doze of immaturity and being placed in systems that did not yield to Dunleavy’s skills unfortunately have contributed to his reputation as an underachiever. I have always maintained that if a top coach like Jeff Van Gundy, Hubie Brown or Gregg Popovich had him on their teams, Dunleavy would be a 20/6/6 player. Now with Don Nelson, the master of match-ups, I expect Dunleavy to shine. This team will play a bunch of 115 – 112 games and Dunleavy’s contributions will be a major determinant as to whether they are on the right side of the scorecard. Nelson, for all of his deficiencies, knows how to get the most out of his players. I expect Dunleavy to be a force this year and earn the respect of other players, sportswriters and fans through the league.



For more NBA information, please visit http://allan-brown.com/nba/nba.php or email me at nba@allan-brown.com