Orlando Magic Blogs

It's the All-Star break and time to asses where the season is at.  There are roughly 30 games left and the trading deadline is looming.  Here is a look at the playoffs if they were today.

Continue reading "NBA Playoffs Eastern conference"

Not sure if many of you have noticed recently, but Dwight Howard has made an concerted effort to broaden his impact on the game, namely on the offensive end. He noted the other day in his blog about how he developed his left hand which reiniforces the idea that he wants to become an all-around player, not hindered by any glaring weakness.

Continue reading "Dwight Howard - Expanding his game"

Last night, it was one small step forward and one giant leap back for the Orlando Magic.

Rashard Lewis made his season debut after being suspended for the first ten games of the season, but in the fourth quarter of the same game, Jameer Nelson injured his left knee. Reports out of Orlando today are that Nelson needs surgery to repair cartilage in that knee, and will miss 4-6 seeks.

Continue reading "Jameer Nelson Out 4-6 Weeks"

There is a first time for everything; people typically say this after something downright amazing happens.  I've also heard of this being used on pick up lines many times while dominating the drinking establishments in Madison, Wisconsin.  Typically; your Average Joe with a nobody name and even less game will launch it out there to a fine East Coast hunny.  "I don't leave the bars without my friends," or "I don't like guys that play World of Warcraft for 12 hours straight."  Person X that just got dissed/rejected gets a smirk and offers, "Well, there's a first time for everything."  Don't lie; you've used it yourself or know somebody that has.  This is one of those cases; something amazing happens.  I'm not getting rejected, but I am posting a rewind from the past week.. yes, ladies and gentlemen.  Much like when communist Russia fell.. The Buccaneers got an NFL win this season.. there is a 1st time for everything!

Continue reading "College Fantasy Football Rewind"

WOW! I wish I can go to a game at the Palace at least once in my lifetime. I bet it was crazy in there tonight! This was one of the most exciting games I have seen in a while! With Rip and Tayshaun out, I thought the Pistons' chances for a win became increasingly slimmer. People are wondering if this game will give Dumars the push to trade Rip and Tay, but all the trading rumors are, well, rumors. The teamwork and determination from the start lasted through the whole 48 minutes. Everybody stepped it up tonight!

Continue reading "Superman can't hold up against the Pistons"

Yes, I understand it's a little late to be talking about the start of the NBA season. If I wrote this after the season opener for the Pistons, it would be a very optimistic, happy blog about our win against the Grizzlies. After that, we've had two consecutive losses. It's definitely too early to tell what to expect from the Pistons, but I would like to put my two cents in.

Continue reading "NBA season is back! Are the Pistons ..."

Last night I was listening to an interview with former NBA head coach P.J. Carlesimo on 106.7 The Fan.  He was commenting on the opening days of the NBA regular season, specifically about the Eastern Conference and his thoughts on who were the better teams.  Not surprisingly he named the top three teams as the “factors,” those being Cleveland, Boston, and Orlando.  He said that there are not any teams even close to those three but on the outside looking in is the Washington Wizards.  The Wizards were the only team he mentioned as the fourth best team and he said this about three times.  These comments got me thinking about what the Wizards need to do this regular season to take the next step and breach that label, in what areas can they improve to develop into the fourth Eastern Conference power? 

Continue reading "How Can the Washington Wizards Improve ..."

I remember when Superman Shaq came out years ago. Perhaps it was so many years ago that Dwight Howard was too young to know it. Anyway, nothing much was said when Superman Dwight came out at the All-S

Continue reading "Shaq disses Howard, nope, just truth's ..."

At this point in the summer I am going to break down who I think is going to land in the playoffs after the nine.ten. This is based on what has happened so far around the league.

Western Conference Playoffs:

Continue reading "NBA Playoff Predictions"

Dave Dameshek, an ESPN.com podcaster gave kudos to Andre Agassi today, ( http://sports.espn.go.com/stations/player?context=podcast&id=4352192) on his podcast for his infamous mantra “ Image

Continue reading "James, Vick, Manny, and Beckham take ..."

Dave Dameshek, an ESPN.com podcaster gave kudos to Andre Agassi today, ( http://sports.espn.go.com/stations/player?context=podcast&id=4352192) on his podcast for his infamous mantra “ Image

Continue reading "James, Beckham, Vick and Manny take ..."

Orlando matched the Maverick's offer to Marcin Gortat.  He is to be paid $34 for the next 5 seasons.  He averaged 3.8 points and 4.5 rebounds in 12 minutes last season.  He earned 2 wins for his team using the Howard winning system.   He never played extended minutes in the playoffs.  He is a very expensive limited backup for Dwight Howard.  One thing he does give the Magic is trading value.  He is young and now has a higher salary which could work for the Magic when it comes trading time.  There will be veterans out there that may have a higher salary.  Those teams may want to take a chance at a younger player like Gortat.   Orlando is still going to be very good, but looking different:

Continue reading "Orlando resings Gortat--over paid"

1.  Julius Erving:  Dr. J

2.  Dominique Wilkins:  The Human Highlight Reel

3.  George Gervin:  The Iceman

4.  Ervin Johnson:  Magic

5.  Michael Jordan:  Air Jordan

Continue reading "The 50 Best NBA Nicknames Ever (Published Again)"

With the top 4 teams in the league last year making ALL the big moves so far this off-season(Boston excluded so far because they haven't signed sheed yet, but they will be getting a healthy Garnett ba

Continue reading "NBA Champions"

Portland Trail Blazers coach Nate McMillan is flying to Orlando to have a Wednesday night dinner with the Blazers' top free-agent target, Hedo Turkoglu.

Turkoglu's agent, Lon Babby, said Wednesday that Turkoglu will then travel to Oregon for a Thursday tour of the Blazers' facilities and meetings with Portland general manager Kevin Pritchard and assistant GM Tom Penn.

Continue reading "Blazers' McMillan to meet with Orlando's ..."

Right now, the NBA draft just took place. Still, there are more trades to come, free agents to get sign, and much more recession money hustle through teams playing the "business game".

Continue reading "The Current NBA is at an interesting ..."

Shaq can't even proclaim himself "The Big Trade."

The defending Eastern Conference champion Orlando Magic trumped Los Angeles Laker ex Shaquille O'Neal's move from the Phoenix Suns to the Cleveland Cavaliers when they acquired Vince Carter from the New Jersey Nets.

Continue reading "Trading the Lakers' Enemies? I Don't Think So"

1 Clippers                      Blake Griffin PF

Continue reading "OH-HUM THE 2009 NBA DRAFT"

Vince Carter and Ryan Anderson are sent to the Magic for Rafer Alston, Courtney Lee, and Tony Battie.  In what looks like another attempt by Jay-Z and the Nets to get good buddy LeBron James to New Jersey has been made.  Moving Carter's big salary does that.  What was confusing was shipping youngster Anderson and acquiring poing guard Alston.  PG Devin Harris had a tremendous break out year.  Does this mean that he will move to SG or will Lee start there and Alston be a bench player.

Continue reading "Magic--Nets blockbuster deal!"

1.  Julius Erving:  Dr. J

2.  Dominique Wilkins:  The Human Highlight Reel

3.  George Gervin:  The Iceman

4.  Ervin Johnson:  Magic

5.  Michael Jordan:  Air Jordan

Continue reading "The 50 Best NBA Nicknames Ever"

Almost exactly a year ago I wrote and published my first blog in this here forum of journalistic excellence and opinionated sports debate. I recounted the pitfalls of a thoroughly disappointing Lakers-Celtics Finals, one that should have been steeped in drama, history and haymakers but was instead hampered by flops, bricks, and poor decision-making. I find it fitting to sit here on this most unceremonious of anniversaries (does anyone still read this? if you’re out there, send money) and begrudgingly opine on yet another, equally disappointing Finals. 

Continue reading "Another Disappointing Finals"

Congratulations Los Angeles Lakers! When this series started I really thought the Orlando Magic would win their 1st ever NBA title instead it was the Lakers claiming their 15th. I wanted sooooooo badl

Continue reading "Magic had all the questions...Lakers ..."

A long road of grit, talent, ups and downs has come to a magnificent end with the Lakers 15th championship.

Well tested by the Houston Rockets in the Western semis, and the Denver Nuggets in the conference finals, they entered the big show the favorite, and showed they worked out their inconsistencies by defeating a tenacious Orlando Magic team 4 games to 1.

Continue reading "Congratulations, Los Angeles Lakers, ..."

It looks like the Los Angeles Lakers, up 3-1 in the series vs. the Orlando Magic, will come up with the title before the series is over.  Maybe the Magic will win game 5 and send it back to LA, but it will likely end in game 6.  The Lakers have the best player, Kobe Bryant, and the best coach, Phil Jackson.  Jackson will end up with 10 NBA titles as head coach.  That is a number that's hard to believe.  Years back Pat Riley was the hot coach, when Kareem and Magic Johnson were in their prime.  You have to have great players to be a winning coach.  And, a great coach finds a way to keep his great players playing at the highest level.  Jackson benefitted from coaching Jordan and Pippen and the rest of the Bulls, not to forget, Dennis Rodman.  He was able to get Rodman to play his best, and that was not an easy thing to do.

Continue reading "Whatever happens in NBA Finals, Jackson is Tops"

Sure, people have compared Ricky Rubio to Pistol Pete Maravich, because they both are spectacular playmakers and have floppy hair.  However, I think an even better comparison for Rubio is Jason K

Continue reading "Ricky Rubio=Jason Kidd"

Dear Derek Fisher,

I'm sorry. I never should have questioned your play in these playoffs.

After Thursday night's heroics that lifted your Los Angeles Lakers to the 99-91 overtime victory over the Orlando Magic in Game 4 of the NBA Finals and gave your team a seemingly insurrmountable 3-1 series lead, you have earned a Laker Benefit of the Doubt card. For life.

Continue reading "The Fisher King"

Time and time again this season the Orlando Magic have been tested and counted out and they seem to always bounce back like a team destined for great things. Nobody gave them a shot in hell to be

Continue reading "Do the Magic have any more magic?"

Los Angeles Lakers at Orlando Magic (Lakers lead the series 2-1)

NBA Finals, Game 4 - June 11, 2009

Amway Arena - Orlando, Florida

Game 4 preview and in-game recap

By Brad VanFossan

Continue reading "Derek Fisher the new Robert Horry? ..."

Has any coach's stock risen more in this year's NBA playoff's than Stan Van Gundy?

Who would have believed before the season that a Ron Jeremy look alike would be one of the biggest headliners of the basketball postseason? While he looks more like a used car salesmen rather than an NBA coach, his solid regular season resume, along with a run to the Finals this year, has elevated his status as one of the best in the game. Looking back at the choice of Mike Brown as coach of the year for 2009 almost looks silly. That debate is for another time though and I want to remain focused on what exactly Jeff's brother has done to spark his Orlando Magic.

Continue reading "The Sorcerer- Stan Van Gundy"

What has transpired in the last two NBA Finals games has made it clear: Kobe Bryant is not the best closer in the league.

Not right now, anyway.

For the second consecutive game, the Los Angeles Lakers put the ball in Bryant's hands with a chance to beat the Orlando Magic and he failed to deliver.

Continue reading "Two Strikes and Kobe's Out as the Closer"

  2009 NBA FINALS

 VS

Continue reading "The Dwight Fight"

NBA FINALS; Orlando Magic give LA a Battle of a Game, but Lakers Take It in Overtime!!!!

Continue reading "Lakers in Overtime"

Lamar Odom's offense in the fourth quarter was a huge reason the Los Angeles Lakers escaped in overtime of the NBA Finals' Game 2.

Odom also was the reason they didn't put the game away a lot sooner.

Continue reading "Lovin' Lamar Odom ... NOT"

This was a bad game for the magic. who simply let L.A. run all over them dwight Howard cant let paul gasol, & Andrew bynum guard him. Another thing jermel nelson should be coming off the bench to

Continue reading ""

NBA FINALS GAME 1; Kobe and the LA Lakers Show the Orlando Magic their on a Mission!!
I thought that this was going to be a close game and a battle, even Vegas had the spread at 6 thinking it would be close, but it ended up being a blowout!!

Continue reading "LA Blows Out The Magic"

GAME 1 Los Angeles 

      100        

Continue reading "KOBE SHOWS COURT IS IN SESSION"

Earlier in the NBA playoffs, a 25-point Los Angeles Lakers victory would have been a source of concern heading into the ensuing game.

Fortunately, the Lakers now have two things going for them following their 100-75 blowout of the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday night.

Continue reading "How Will Lakers Handle Prosperity? ..."

Something happened on the way to the NBA Finals. Neither the Boston Celtics nor the LeBron Cavaliers made it to face the Kobe Lakers.

Actually no one should be surprised. Well not totally anyway. I was fairly certain that without Jameer Nelson at the point, the Orlando Magic would struggle with the 76ers and fall to the Kevin Garnett-less Celtics.

Continue reading "Destiny Magic?"

When will we learn?

Many cocky Laker fans welcome the news of point guard Jameer Nelson's possible return to the Orlando Magic in the NBA Finals that begin Thursday at Staples Center.

"His timing will be off. He'll only disrupt the playoff rotation the Magic have already established. He'll do more harm than good in the Orlando lineup," these Laker fans foolishly prattle.

Continue reading "Lakers Beware The Willis Reed Curse ..."

 Orlando Magic: Can they win the big game?

     Orlando Magic make the NBA finals as the underdog for the whole series against Cleveland. Even when the Orlando Magic were up in the series 3 to 1, sports analysis and fans of the NBA were still doubting the Magic, but Dwight Howard stepped up HUGE in game 6, as he scored 40 points and grapped 14 rebounds. Hopefully for the Magic's sake he can perform at that level of intensity. Another playing that has been stepping up all playoffs long, was Rashard Lewis with 18 points and he had 8 rebounds. Lebron scored only 25 points (only. lol), compared to his average against the Magic in the Eastern Conference finals being over 35 ppg.

Continue reading "Orlando Magic in the Finals! Can they win it?"

This should be a good match up, bringing us fans some entertaining finals games.  I called Orlando beating Cleveland and that was because the Magic played as a team throughout the whole pla

Continue reading "NBA Finals: Orlando Magic vs. LA Lakers"

I'm sure everyone wanted to see Cleveland Cavs versus the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron James play Kobe Bryant. The media would fawn over every play. We'd see highlight after highlight of Kobe's baskets then Lebron's shots.  Thank God that didn't happen!

Continue reading "Magic's win is good for NBA"

Shaq or Kobe? The debate’s not dead just yet.

Really? It’s not? You’re saying to yourself, this guy is a complete and utter moron, how can he be asking this still now? I was so tired of hearing about this five years ago, and you’re asking this now?

Continue reading "Shaq vs. Kobe - You thought the debate ..."

In the Eastern Conference finals, Orlando is showing everyone that they deserve to be in the finals!!!! They beat Cleveland again last night in a battle and, I might add, a very entertaining game giving Orlando a 3-1 series' edge!!!! Crazy, they already have commercials playing that are basically saying it's Kobe vs James rather than Orlando vs Denver.  I think that's awesome as I always love the underdogs!!!

Continue reading "The Eastern Conference Finals -- ..."

Or is it dilemmi? Either way.

As the entire NBA world eagerly awaits the potential match-up of Kobe and LeBron in this year's finals, they also can't help observe it's getting increasingly difficult for them to get there. The Magic and Nuggets are hitting their strides at the right time, with bench players stepping up at crucial moments, Van Panic and Karl making good coaching moves, and both team's point guards acting as the leaders they can be. Even if the current and future MJ's of our time average 50 a game for the rest of the playoffs, it won't matter. That's not how you reach the Golden Summit (Yes, I just used "Golden Summit" as an analogy for the Finals. Deal with it. I like it.).

Continue reading "Kobe and LeBron facing similar dilemmas"

All season Cleveland established themselves as an NBA Eastern fave! Led by MVP LeBron James the Cavaliers have put together a quality team. Their weak link however has been an inconsistent bench.

Continue reading "Is This The Real Orlando?"

The Orlando Magic won game 3 99-89 and took a 2-1 lead in the physical NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

The Cleveland Cavs' LeBron James scored 41 points, but it wasn't enough as the Magic played a smarter game and did not allow for any late heroics as we saw in Game 2.  If not for James' 23 footer in game 2, this would be a 3-0 series and people would be shocked. But the Magic match up well with Cleveland. They have a well-rounded team, with guys contributing points.  Alston and Pietrus played well. And, Hedo Turkelu had double figures despite only making 1 shot from the field.  Free-throws were the difference in this game, and Dwight Howard made 14 from the charity stripe, his high for the Playoffs.

Continue reading "Magic by 10 in Game 3"

You never hear the term "Final 4" applied to the NBA conference finalists. That marketing marker is applied to collegiate March Madness.

But this exhilarating post-season, the L.A. Nuggets are in a dead heat with the Denver Lakers, as of midway of Game 3, Western Conference final.

Continue reading "NBA Final 4 Rock Equally Hard -- ..."

AARWICH NEWS!!!  -  5/21/09



       I grew up in the 80's watching the the greats battle it out on the
hardwood. It was a time of true parity and drama. As I became more and

Continue reading "NBA's NEXT ERA WILL BE THE BEST EVER"

So once again we face the win or go-home game seven situation. This Orlando series has been a mixture of blowouts, come-backs, and some good battles; tonight's game is all or nothing. If we consider the history of the Boston Celtics, this game is in the bag...every time the Cs are in game 7, their record is 20-5. At home they are 17-3. Orlando is 1-1 in this situation and 0-1 on the road.

Continue reading "Boston Celtics: And It All Comes Down to This"

When Mark Cuban told Lydia Moore that her son, the Nuggets' Kenyon Martin, was a "thug" after Game 3 of the Nuggets-Mavs series, he crossed a line. I thought I'd point out the Top 10 Things he MEANT TO SAY to Ms. Moore:

Continue reading "Top 10 Things Mark Cuban MEANT TO ..."

Last night's Celts versus Orlando Magic game was different from the other games in this series. The Celtics came out looking determined to win this one and end the series in 6. The Cs had the lead the whole entire game (biggest lead 12) until the last 3 minutes. This is the first time during this playoff that a Cs lead in the 4th did not lead to a close out. Rondo had a good night scoring 19 points, 16 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals, and so did Perkins scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds, an assist and 3 blocks. But it wouldn't be enough with Ray Ray only scoring 5 points and Davis 6 points -- this is not what C-Nation is used to! The Cs bench did play great Defense though, especially Scalabrine, and if he can keep that up, it will be huge in game 7.  But no offense from the bench -- I was hoping to see House step up when Allen was off, but no such luck.    Their "Superman" D. Howard had the night that Magic fans were waiting for and scored a game high 23 points and game high 22 rebounds and with help from R. Lewis scoring 20 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, it was just enough to give the Magic the win 83-75.  I thought that when the Cs were up 8 with 9 minutes left in the game, we were leaving with a win, but Pierce and Allen were 3-15 in the second half and that's what cost us. Pierce played an overall good game, scoring 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists keeping the Cs in the lead the whole game. But right down the stretch when Pierce usually single-handedly closes out the other team, he just didn't have it  and no one else stepped up. The Cs handed this game to the Magic!!! Pierce missed two free throws in the last 3 minutes and then the Celts just couldn't score and Orlando took advantage. They got the lead with under 3 minutes and kept it, sending this series to a game 7. Another crazy series but as Dato, G, Jon, KC, Rach, Ro,JR, Bobafet, Even-Murray, and I said from the start, this was going to a Game 7!!!( Rach has believed from the beginning that this series iwould be just like last year's, and she's right.) This will be back in Boston Sunday night at 8:00 where the Cs franchise is 32-0 in game 7. MIT believes the Cs are a lock. The Professor and I believe it's going to be a battle and could come down to the last possession. We will see Sunday. So Go Celts, get your green on; you don't want to miss this one!!!

Continue reading "Boston Celtics: It Can Get Awfully Hot in Orlando"

95-80, Houston. These effin' (s)La(c)kers are getting on my nerves. 40 pt. winning landslide followed by Kobe and the Anemia Drips. As the coach noted, Jekyll-Hyde. Question: Who's the winner, Killer Hyde, or Mild Doc Jekyll? One of those bad means good, good means bad conundrums.

Continue reading "Round 2, Game 6, Lakers Fail to Seal ..."

The Celtics came out last night against Orlando looking tired and defeated. I was reminded immediately of how they looked in game 1 and even though I hoped they'd pull magic out of their bag of tricks, the outcome was exactly the same as game 1 -- a blowout.In the 1st quarter, neither team could hit a jump shot; every point scored by both teams was in the paint. This led to D. Howard having a big game and all the Celtics getting in foul trouble early (which they cannot afford). Next thing you know it's half time, and the Orlando is up by 12 and Ray Ray can't hit a shot. Pierce and Rondo look extremely tired -- not good for the Celtics. This bad news and bad start would continue as the Magic would have a 20 point lead in the 3rd quarter and this time they keep it, ending up with an ugly final score of 117-96!  As the Professor always says, if Rondo is on, we win; if not we lose!!! And last night the Professor said, "I believe Rondo is off tonight [which he was] and it looks like Pierce is hurt."  So once again, the Professor is right. By the 4th quarter, Pierce was limping. I don't believe he is hurt, but he does look beyond-tired. All the starters looked so tired and Ray, with only 8 points (2-12), and Rondo, who's off his game, it's almost always going to be impossible to get the win. Even though Eddie House was on once again (the only one who was), without our starters, count us out.  So I think with all of the sitting at the end of this game, all the starters will have their legs back under them for an important game 4. C-Nation knows we can beat Orlando and we proved that in game 2 and that's what we need to see in game 4 -- that same fire and determination we all know that's there. It just needs to come out again, and I believe it will. MIT said, "I think the Cs have the next game for sure and they will win by 8-10 points on Sunday!!"  I personally think it will be another blow-out, but by who, we will have to wait to see what Celtic team shows up for this one!! I hope MIT is right, but I think as does Dato, G, KC, Jon, Rach, Ro, Bedlam(Showoff Marketing), and even Murray, this is going to 7, so stay tuned. I believe in the magic for Boston.

Continue reading "The Boston Celtics: Is the Magic Gone?"

Tonight at 7:00 pm the Boston Celtics will play game 3 against the Orlando Magic in their house. The big question is who is going to come out tonight: The Celtics who came out tired and dragging and couldn't work as a team in game 1 or the Celtics who came out like the Champs they are in game 2? The Professor thinks that if Rondo plays well, the Celts will take this one. MIT believes this game is going to be like last game and if he's right, you might want to throw on the Red Sox game, cause this is over!! I believe this game is going to be a battle, no blow out by either team, but within the last 5 minutes the Celts will close them down!!! So stay tuned for this one, and let's see who brings out the magic!! Go Celts!

Continue reading "Boston Celtics Heading to the Magic Kingdom"

C-Nation, I believe that we are in for another crazy fight like the first round with the Bulls that felt like two fighters in the ring exchanging blow after blow. But unlike the Pacquiao/Hatton fight Sat. Night which was over before you could blink --Pac-Man won if you didn't know -- I I'm not so sure that the C's can end the Magic as quickly. 

Continue reading "Boston Celtics: Bring on the Magic Show!"

Last night's game between the Celtics and the Bulls ended what is only going to be remembered as an epic battle. It's finally over and C-nation got the win we wanted and sent the Bulls packing. Clearly, the Celts bench stepped it up to another level -- this is what I have been waiting for during the entire playoffs -- seeing the team play like a unit instead of counting on one guy.

Continue reading "Celtics to Bulls: You're Outta Our House"

After seeing the Celtics lose Leon Powe last night and not having Kevin Garnett for the entire playoffs, people are writing off the defending champs. The other challenger to the Cavs, the Orlando Magi

Continue reading "Is it a cakewalk to the NBA Finals for the Cavs?"

The Chicago Bulls have been one of the hottest home teams in the league, and their play of the past two weeks have put them into the NBA playoffs. The will not face the Cavs, that honor goes to 8th seed Detroit. But the Bulls might be matched against the Celtics or the Orlando Magic. 

Continue reading "Bulls' Run Right into The Playoffs"

Jets Lose Cutler Bidding and Win 

The Denver Broncos traded Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler and a fifth round pick in the 2009 draft to the Chicago Bears for signal-caller Kyle Orton, first round picks in both the 2009 and 2010 drafts, and a third round pick in this April's draft Thursday evening.

Continue reading "Jets Lose Cutler Bidding and Win ..."

What a basketball game -- the Celtics down by 16 points in the third quarter and to have the ending we did, CRAZY!  The Celts not only had to battle Dwight Howard and his Orlando Magic (who are fighting against us for the 2 seed), but last night the Cs had to battle the referees as well. 

Continue reading "Celts vs Orlando Magic vs. the Refs 3/26/09"

I don’t know what the players on most of the World Baseball Classic teams were thinking during the tournament, but the players on Team Italy really wanted to win.  The WBC wasn’t spring training for most of them, like it was for the United States.  I’m not suggesting the Americans did not try as hard as everyone else, but each of Team U.S.’s players knew he had a great job to go back to when the WBC was over.  Some of the players on the Italian roster, by contrast, were auditioning for big-league or even minor league jobs.

Continue reading "WBC thoughts from an inside perspective"

I was at my day job when I first read it on my phone, Rockets deal Alston to Magic for Cook, Lowry. It took a moment to sink in. We traded Rafer? Not McGrady? Not Artest? Was this the move thats going to put us over the top? I didn't know what to think. I didn't know who to ask. I didn't even know who Cook and Lowry

Continue reading "Do Houston fans miss Rafer aka Skip to my Lou?"

The Grizzlies shipped guard Kyle Lowry to the Houston Rockets minutes before the 2 p.m. trade deadline today as part of a three-way deal with the Orlando Magic.  As part of the deal, Houston sent guard Rafer Alston to Orlando, and the Magic sent a first-round draft pick to the Grizzlies and Brian Cook to the Rockets.

Continue reading "Grizz dish Lowry at buzzer"

This is not something I normally do, but it seems like everywhere I look and listen, there are faulty NBA power rankings. I have no choice but to improve upon what I've seen and heard. It's about that time for me to get my two cents in, but quickly I have to go over a couple rules:

Continue reading "NBA Power Rankings"

For better or worse, fan balloting has been cast and counted, and the responsibility of correcting mistakes, filling bench spots and inevitably producing a snub or two rests on the shoulders of the head coaches around the league.

Continue reading "The Sports Don Reveals His Eastern ..."

(Note: I've published this post on another blog of mine, here.)

Did you see these two teams yesterday? I don't think I've ever been more impressed by a pair of NBA teams on the same day. The Celtics absolutely dismantled a respectable Dallas Mavericks' team, and the Lakers shamed the once-mighty San Antonio Spurs. Everything was clicking for both the Celtics and Lakers, and yet it's not as if this was a one-time deal.

Continue reading "We're headed for a Lakers/Celtics ..."

It's odd, I have my site at bostoncelticsnews.com, and I have only posted one thing NBA related. Well, how about I make it two? 

On MLK night, the Lakers took it the Cavs. If this game didn't showcase why the Lakers are the best team in the league right now, I don't know what does. For the average person who just looks at the NBA as a whole, the Lakers are the team right now. But, as Lee Corso would say, not so fast my friend. Breaking it down, here are my rankings for teams that I think have the best shot at winning the championship. 

Continue reading "NBA Wrap-Up"

Tonight is the Night orlando will try to stay unbeaten on there WEST Coast rode trip! SInce Phoenix has decided to trade raja bell and boris diaw and no SHAQ tonight I believe the magic should win and win big!  predict another 20 and 15 night for Dwight Howard and the Magic will stay on FIRE form the three point line!!!!

Continue reading "MAGIC vs SUNS!"

Many fans will discuss the heartbreak of Tuesday night's game between the Orlando Magic and Portland Trailblazers.  The eight point lead with a minute and a half left, the offensive rebounds given up in crunch time and the Blazers inability to put the hammer down and prevent their first home loss.  But the biggest concern is the fact that no one felt comfortable with the ball in their hands at the end of the game. 

Continue reading "Crunch Time"

The Portland Trailblazers, with a 15-7 record, have yet to lose at the Rose Garden this season, add in the fact that out of 8 contests they've only fallen once to a team from the Eastern Conference and it becomes clear that the Orlando Magic will need to come out guns blazing to build on to their current three game win streak.

Continue reading "Orlando's Tough Task"

Friday night not only saw the Magic win their second straight in Orlando before leaving on a five game road journey but also the the return of Jameer Nelson and Keith Bogans.  And while Orlando, despite their roster often limping into games, has stayed atop the Southeast with a 15-5 record, though Atlanta only trails by a few games with a 12-7 record, the return of these two well rounded athletes will certainly aid the Magic to gain on the Celtics lead of the Eastern Conference, especially with Mickael Pietrus sidelined for another several weeks.

Continue reading "Return of Duo Guards to Help Magic on Road"

The Magic bounced back after a subpar performance against the Celtics to defeat the Timberwolves 100-89 Wednesday night.  Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu combined for 68 points and Orlando, as a whole, shot well, knocking down 57% of their field goals.

Continue reading "Courtney Lee Helps Magic Topple T-Wolves"

Rashard Lewis tallied 30 points while Dwight Howard grabbed 15 boards and had 4 blocks, yet it was the Celtics who left Monday victorious.  And while Boston's ability is certainly not to be taken lightly, it was the Magic that defeated themselves having only hit 42% of their field goals and shooting a mere 19% from behind the arc; the Magic's free throw shooting was also lackluster, having missed a total of ten. 

Continue reading "Lewis' 30 Not Enough Against Boston"

In front of 17,000 plus, despite a standout performance by Indiana's Danny Granger, the Orlando Magic extended their win streak to 4 and their record to 13 wins with just 4 losses.

And while the day was special to Anthony Johnson, who put up his best numbers of the year with 16 points, it was Dwight Howard who would lay claim to the Magic's victory as his own.  Howard, who had more rebounds than the rest of the Magic combined with 21, put up an amazing 32 points, outshining Granger by 5.

Continue reading "Magic Rout Pacers; Prepare to Face Celtics"

While we are all certainly enjoying this elongated weekend, perhaps no one is enjoying it more than the players and fans of the Orlando Magic.  

The Magic began the holiday weekend with an intense win over the 76ers on Wednesday and followed the feat with a 15 point victory over the Wizards last night.  Orlando will be back on the court tomorrow to take on the 6-8 Pacers who will be lead by the high scoring Danny Granger.

Continue reading "Orlando Magic look to continue three ..."

Cinderella didn't wear a jersey nor did she wear a helmet. She was also not glamourous or graceful until magic surrounded her one night. Sports analyzers are calling Texas Tech a "Cinderella" team. We were always the belle of the ball. No one knew it, but the Texas Tech Red Raiders sure did.

Continue reading "Texas Tech: No Cinderella Story"

The Philadelphia Sixers have won another game against a West coast foe winning by eight tonight against the Golden State Warriors 89-81 thanks to another great performance from Elton Brand...23 points 12 rebounds to give the 76ers a 7-6 record heading into a tough week.

Continue reading "76ers win two straight to move above .500"

With the NBA season about to Start this Tuesday, I decided its probably time for me to do my preseason playoff predictions...

EAST
1. Cavaliers
2. Celtics
3. Pistons
4. Magic

Continue reading "NBA Playoff Predictions"

A big thanks to everyone who participated in the "Inbound Link Contest".  We have a winner!  A big congratulations go out to Marija.  Thank you for all your hard work on this.  While we had a lot of people participate, Marija was able to win with only 4 links!  So it wouldn't have taken a lot to win this contest!  We'll be having another contest soon so stay tuned.

Continue reading "Inbound link contest winner announced!"

Camp is chugging right along and it's hard to believe that the first preseason game is a mere two days away. Check back tomorrow for our 5 Keys to the Game. It might be somewhat of an exercise in futility for a meaningless preaseason game as far as the team goes, but for individual players there's a lot at stake. Some quick hit thoughts and links:

Continue reading "Tuesday Pats Stuff"

Back in the day, when I used to reside in the City of the Rat, I had a friend that ran a local radio station.  Let’s call him Brotha E.  Now as a result of his high-standing in the community, and the fact that his radio station aired Orlando Magic games, Brotha E would often score free tickets into the pre-Dwight Howard O-Rena.  These were the T-Mac days, always entertaining since you never knew when Kid Auburndale was going to go off for 40.  Plus it was always enjoyable to see if Grant Hill’s ankle boot and crutches matched his $3,000 Armani suit.

Continue reading "Brushes with Sports Greatness, Volume ..."

To try and motivate our bloggers to get inbound links we're going to have a contest to see which blogger can get the most inbound links to their blog. The contest begins now and ends July 31st, 2008. To be entered in to the contest all you have to do is go out and get as many websites to link to your blog as you can and at the end of the month send us an email listing all those links. All links must be active from August 1st through August 7th when we'll be judging the entries - a winner will be announced on August 7th. All entry emails must be received by Midnight on July 31st, 2008. You can email them to sportsfan@nbabasketballonline.com

Continue reading "Inbound link contest - Win $100!"

 

Jerry Colangelo and USA Basketball is painting this wonderful picture of how the 12-man U.S. men's national team was constructed but take a closer because the picture is revealing something else.

Continue reading "TEAM NIKE GOING FOR GOLD IN BEIJING"

Major League Baseball’s all-star game is approaching and in all honesty, I am kind of excited.  I like baseball’s all-star festivities, especially compared to the other main sports in the U.S.  And if you don’t mind, I’m going to tell you why.  Actually, what do I care if you mind?

Continue reading "All-star weekend...or middle of the week."

Ugh, last night's loss left a bitter taste in my mouth to say the least.  I'm trying to fin the proper words to describe it, but it's proving more difficult than I had anticipated.  I could say that this loss was deflating and/or disheartening, but I'm not sure that it was all bad and completely demoralizing.  In fact, despite the loss, there were a few things that went well for the Celtics that I could see them using to recapture the edge in this series.

Continue reading "Silver Lining?"

You have to say that the Detroit Pistons have built a pretty successful organization in the new millennium. While the term "dynasty" is usually reserved for sports teams that put together a string of championships, we can surely make an exception for the Pistons.

Continue reading "Pistons: Beasts in the East"

Just an interesting tidbit that defies the conventional dialogue of the mainstream sports media these days.  Everybody with an opinion and a metaphorical megaphone (be it a sports blog or a tv show on ESPN) has been critical of the Boston Celtics this postseason for their inability to win on the road. 

Continue reading "No Place Like Home"

If this trend continues then Boston fans have nothing to worry about.  With home court advantage throughout the playoffs the Celtics have the inside track to the NBA title.  I have never seen anything like this before.  Home court advantage is obviously important, it is why teams play the whole regular season and it’s why Major League Baseball puts it up for grabs every July in the All-Star game.  But I didn’t know that playing in front of your home crowd mattered this much. 

Continue reading "Looking For A Road Win"

“A rose by any of name would smell as sweet.” Even if he is Charlie Hustle. What is the construction of a great nickname? What is at the heart of a truly “Great One”? No I don’t mean Wayne Gretzky, although if we are starting with “Legends”, how about Larry Bird? I mean the “Hick from French Lick” was so good that he has two? In both those cases the players were great but the nick names were just very good. I’d like to develop a list of my top five nicknames of all time. Before I do, I would like to give an acknowledgement to the group that started this discussion for me. Lindros, Leclair, Renburg, were truly as their name suggested,

Continue reading "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet...."

What the heck was that? The game clock malfuctions at the end of Quarter 3 in Game 2 of the Pistons/Magic series...Chauncy Billups drains a 3 with the clock stuck at 4.8 seconds.... there's no way to know whether it would have counted (w/out accessing the instant replay and using a stop-watch...which is apparently too complicated for the NBA)...and so referee Steve Javie effectively shrugs, ("eh, who knows"), raises his arms and delcares the 3-pointer is good.

Continue reading "Steve Javie, shame on you!"

I'm not one to tinker too much with the game, but if I were commish, czar, and supreme baseball deity all rolled up into one, I'd mandate the following changes:

1. Eliminate the fake-to-third-turn-to-first move by the pitcher. I've seen this work once, though it's done thousands of times and elicits boos every time from home fans (even if it's the home pitcher doing it). It's a stupid play, it should be a balk (its intention is to deceive the runner, which is the definition of "balk") and it looks plain foolish.

Continue reading "How I'd Change Baseball"

Every time I read that the Giants came up with a system to beat the mighty Patriots, I cringe.  Attack the Quarterback, bombard the offensive line with a variety of blitzes coming from different angl

Continue reading "Super Bowl Confidential"

Bring on the Jazz! Those Salt Pillars are goin' down! Lakers in 6. In the other semifinal, steely Spurs over stinging Hornets in 6. Western Conference Finals: Lakers-Spurs gunslingin' showdown at the OK Corral. Lakers in 6 or 7.

Continue reading "ROCKIN' SECOND-ROUND (& ONWARD) PLAYOFF PREVIEW"

Hey, did you hear that? What you ask. That. The sound of the Denver Nuggets imploding. The sound of time passing by because it is only a matter of time before they are out of the playoffs. Heck, there is the chance that they will be swept out of the playoffs. That’s right, I said it.

Continue reading "Lakers/Nuggets Game 2"

They are finally here.  After months of riveting basketball and a Western Conference race that went down to the last night of the season, they are here.  Of course, I would be talking about the 2008 NBA Playoffs.  The playoffs that have a chance to be the best in a long time.  When was the last time a 50-win team is an 8 seed and has basically no chance of winning their first round season?  When was the last time 2 of the best teams in the lead and 2 of the 5 teams that have a chance at winning it all, met in the first round?  Forget all of that, when was the last time people were excited to begin the 2 month stretch for the title?  Before any of this can begin we must take a look at each series and make some (gulp!!!) predictions.

Continue reading "NBA PLayoff Preview: EAST"

According to a poll Comcast SportsNet conducted after the Bulls/Magic game last night, Bulls fans feel John Paxson should make Ben Gordon a priority in the offseason. Obviously, these results weren’t based on last night, when the guard scored three points after 18 minutes of playing time in a 104-84 loss. But it is interesting to note that Gordon, who turned down a reported $50 million contract over the summer and went from being a starter to bench player, is still one of the team’s most popular players.

Continue reading ""

Very rarely does an MVP race turn out the way last year’s American League race did.  A no-brainer.  It was obvious to see that Alex Rodriguez would win and by a large margin.  Usually there are two or three candidates and you can make a case for all of them.  This years MVP race in the National Basketball Association is no different then the AL race last season though, it’s just no one sees it.  There are seven or eight people who you could make a strong case for but picking the winner is easier then people think.  That’s only if you use my way of finding the true MVP.

Continue reading "Tight NBA MVP Race? Not In My Eyes"

Yesterday, I wrote about the Celtics easy schedule heading into their likely first round match up with the Atlanta Hawks.  Today, after watching Cleveland lose to Larry Hughes and Ben Gordon and the Chicago Bulls (the only reason they even get a nod is because of Noah's last second defense on King James, otherwise I'd feel fine about disavowing their existence), I'm just itching to unnecessarily criticize the Cavs and explain to my massive audience (there's at least four of you by now, right?) why I'm salivating at the mere thought of a second round playoff match-up with Cleveland.

Continue reading "I Swear I'm Not Crazy..."

http://wizbangsports.com/2008/03/shaquille_oneal_wants_to_be_gm.

Once his playing career is over. From the Orlando Sentinel-

BOSTON - Center Shaquille O'Neal was traded from the Miami Heat to the Phoenix Suns last month, but the Orlando Magic -- the team with whom he started his high-profile career -- never seem far from his thoughts.

Continue reading "Shaquille O'Neal wants to be Orlando Magic GM"