This is topic Early, Early Pre-Season BASKETBALL Thread in forum Books, Films, Food and Culture at Hatrack River Forum.


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Posted by RoyHobbs (Member # 7594) on :
 
With the recent arrests of the 2 UConn players for stealing and selling laptops, basketball is again where it should be, in the news.

No, but seriously, this is for all basketball topics, including NBA free agency. The latest news on that front is the recent signings of Guards Nick Van Exel and Michael Finley to the defending champion San Antonio Spurs. By signing 2 former 20 points-per-game scorers, these moves give the Spurs unparalleled depth and flexibility with their roster. I think we can safely say that barring any injuries, the Spurs are going to repeat.
 
Posted by RoyHobbs (Member # 7594) on :
 
...and as a Spurs fan that makes me say "YEE-HAW!!"
or something... [Smile]
 
Posted by Beren One Hand (Member # 3403) on :
 
Two teams seriously loaded talent in the off-season: The Spurs and the Heat.

I really don't see anyone in the West catching the Spurs, especially after Phoenix lost Joe Johnson. The Kings will have another good run at the WCC, but I doubt they can stop Tim Duncan.
 
Posted by El JT de Spang (Member # 7742) on :
 
Finley can still play, but I think Van Exel is almost a liability at this point. He's slowed down, and though he can still hit the clutch three, I don't think he's got many minutes left. I look for him to contribute little next year, and Finley will probably get hurt.

I don't really like the Heat's moves this offseason. The Shaq/Zo combo is a year older, and I think Shaq will be more like his last two years with the Lakers than last year. He'll miss a bunch of games, be a little more out of shape, and not as effective. The other thing is that D-Wade is not a secret anymore. People knew last year, but now everybody knows he's the guy to stop. They lost Dooling and Rasual Butler, and I think that production will be missed.

I'm just wondering if the Hornets will play any games in LA this year or if they'll have to relocate, too.

I still would pick Spurs/Heat for finals, but I don't think it'll be the walk people are predicting.
 
Posted by Jay (Member # 5786) on :
 
The Mountaineers (West Virginia University) are getting almost everyone back.
We were one shot from the final four. Can’t wait to see what we’ll do this year.
 
Posted by RynoW1 (Member # 8365) on :
 
Being a die hard blazer fan, I think I can officially say that Van Exel is a MAJOR liability. Just getting a free ride for a championship ring.

I agree about Heat and Spurs. Two SOLID teams.

I'm really excited about my "baby blazers" this year. Although I dont think they will make the playoffs I think that we are heading in the right direction by getting rid of the thugs and building a good youth base around Telfair and Travis Outlaw.

Outlaw will be in my top 10 fantasy players. Honestly, could end up being the next Amare.

Mark my words. :-)
 


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