I've watched quite a few NBA games recently (I don't usually start watching until after the All-Star break) and here are a few of my observations.
- Dwayne Wade is my favorite player to watch in the NBA. He does spectacular stuff each and every time he touches the ball. There's no question that he has recovered from his injuries, and I would not want to play Miami in the second round (I'm talking to you, Cleveland).
- Despite Dwayne's awesome season, LeBron is the MVP. Yes, LeBron's supporting cast is a little better, but it's not like he's playing with the '86 Celtics or anything. John Hollinger at ESPN thinks LeBron is having one of the best seasons ever.
- NBA officiating sucks compared to college, and I think it's because the rules are easier to interpret in the college ranks. No circle under the hoop, no strange defensive three seconds, a more pure game that's easier to officiate.
- What the heck happened to Jermaine O'Neal? I lived in Indiana when he was in his prime, and he was an awesome player to watch. It's sad that he's become a shell of his former self. Still a valuable player for the Heat, but not a force.
- I argued back in January that Starbury would be a bad fit for the Celtics. So far, I've been wrong. He's been a decent back-up PG, though I don't think the signing pushes the Celtics past the Cavs if I'm handicapping the playoffs today.
Like the blog (found via facebook):
ReplyDeletePeople were all wet wondering about Marbury's effect of chemistry - that was negligible. It's a matter of if the dude can play - and that has been a work in progress. He has probably been too unselfish, but it will improve.
College officiating sucks - as an ACC watcher, I can tell you this. The charge circle forces guys to try to play actual defense. Duke taking charges under the basket is unfair (how can a player stop his movement that close to the bucket).
Really every year I watch, it is more and more obvious how much better the pro game is. Only two games this march (Nova-Pitt and Syracuse-UConn) I'd trade in for the two games ESPN showed last wednesday.
Marbury has been terrible for the celtics.
ReplyDeletejermaine oneal was overrated even in his best year. Note that I used singular for year.
The officiating is too inconsistant but I'm not sure the know what they want to call. The either call too many or not enough fouls. How about they just CALL the game. jeez, its not brain science.
Siram -- totally agree about NBA vs. college. I much more enjoy the pro game, especially with all of the awesome players currently in the NBA.
ReplyDeleteDoug -- O'Neal was probably overrated, but he was very good, maybe even a top 15 player (for 2 years).