Miami Heat

[Troynos]

One thing I've noticed, in all pictures of the three of them, who's in the middle? Wade.

[Mr. Focus]

Mr Focus does love a good mass debate :)

Indeed! Even if I have to root for Phoenix over LA to get people wiled up. ;-)

It's been almost 24hrs of silence? I hope I didn't kill your thread but I was outnumbered five to one... good odds for any Greek!

For the record I never intended to offend or discourage anyone. In a few recent posts I may have thrown a couple kidney punches but ONLY after being provoked. I think RuckusJr, Troynos, Monkeywrench and my favorite Gunslinger are a great group of guys and I welcome future discourse/banter.

[Monkeywrench]

My kidneys are fine. I don't go thru and read every post in this thread becuase I really don't care lol. Here is my views:

-I've never liked Lebron. I hate his constant uberhype and the "crowning" of the King nickname. Kobe is a MUCH better player and Kobe deserved the last 2 MVP's.

-This whole circus was annoying and I tried to avoid it as much as possible until everyone picked there teams.

-I'm happy that lebron came off as a dick. I also love the Cav's owners comments. If that was my team and that happened. I would want my owner to react like that, because that's how all the fans feel.

-I hope that the Heat fail and especially Lebron.

-I think Lebron is on some form of PED or he at least was when he was in HS.

-Lebron will never be like MJ and I wish the media would quit trying to make him out to be.

-I can't wait to get my Res 7 packs.

These views are my personel feelings and opinions, please for the sake of your sanity, don't try and "debate" or "argue" with me because my mind is made up.

[halofan086]

correct.

[gunslingercbr]

I agree that LeBron could've showed some class to both the Cleveland organization and his fans by letting them know beforehand. The anticipation of his 1-hour special should've been about "Where will LeBron go? Who's the best suitor?" Before Lebron would reveal his decision, instead of the dry and elongated questions, they could've put together clips of the potential teams falling short of glory and analyzing where he'd fit in the best.

these are the situations where people reveal who they really are -- when they can do whatever they want and people will fall over backwards to accommodate them regardless of whether they are respectful or courteous of others -- and he revealed that he is classless, self-absorbed and pretty misguided abut his own "brand."

the more amazing thing this is that he thought all of this was a good idea. I guess that's what happens when all you surround yourself with are your high school buddies on the gravy train -- you can never be wrong.

but the animosity directed towards him is that he sold a bill of goods about himself that simply weren't true. he talked about idolizing MJ, purported himself to be the same type of player worthy of all the adulation and attention, which is why he got such a media even tin the first place, and then used the event to reveal he is less MJ and more Pippen. and while Pippen certainly is one of the top 50 players in history, he has no real legacy. no player today talks about wanting to be like him, wanting to emulate him. why? because MJ was the leader. leaders sell the seats, get the headlines and the adoration. it takes a special type of player to assume that responsibility, and those are the players we admire, who create legacies.

[Mr. Focus]

LOL... sounds good to me! Since day one of the free agency circus, I thought it'd be best if the free agents actually got together and decided their futures. My money is on Wade, Bosh and LeBron teaming up and breaking hearts!

I really believe LeBron wants a chance to win multiple championships now! Inorder to do that I see Wade, Bosh and LeBron taking less money initially. IF LeBron wants money then he'll stay in Cleveland... not New York, New Jersey nor Chicago!

Ha, ha, ha... posted seven hours before LeBron made his controversial and classless announcement last Thursday. Ooooohh I just love it when a plan comes together!

NEWS FLASH: It's official, Zydrunas Ilgauskas will be joining Wade and Co. Also, Jerry Stackhouse publicly submitted his resume to the Heat. I'd take him! Who would've thunk it... there's no shortage of role players lining up to hop onto the Super Friends' train in Miami!

[nightforceoutback11]

Does anyone still watch the NBA?
Lebron James & his hour long where I'm gonna play next year special..... you have got to be kidding me. Not bashing NBA fans just the product itself...... stinks!

bigjjstudd items - Get great deals on Toys Hobbies items on eBay.com! (http://shop.ebay.com/bigjjstudd/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=&_trksid=p4340)

[gunslingercbr]

Ha, ha, ha... posted seven hours before LeBron made his controversial and classless announcement last Thursday. Ooooohh I just love it when a plan comes together!

NEWS FLASH: It's official, Zydrunas Ilgauskas will be joining Wade and Co. Also, Jerry Stackhouse publicly submitted his resume to the Heat. I'd take him! Who would've thunk it... there's no shortage of role players lining up to hop onto the Super Friends' train in Miami!
that team is gonna be pretty good.

[Dawg99]

do u think the Heat would take Shaq again or is he pretty much done playing?

[Monkeywrench]

do u think the Heat would take Shaq again or is he pretty much done playing?

I hope he's done playing. It's time for him to let go

[boff123]

do u think the Heat would take Shaq again or is he pretty much done playing?

the thing with shaq is that all these teams forgot to give him the memo that he is a clog on offense. having to wait for him to stroll down and post up. the heat have 2 guys (wade & lj) along with bosh, so i dont see any chance shaq would touch the ball. since of course that would not sit well with him, he will bitch & complain just like he has been doing the last couple of yrs.

also i would not trust him around any basketball wives as he likes to bang them out too. yikes!

[Mr. Focus]

Does anyone still watch the NBA?
Lebron James & his hour long where I'm gonna play next year special..... you have got to be kidding me. Not bashing NBA fans just the product itself...... stinks!


YES, there's plenty of hypocrites that still watch the NBA... c'mon fella, there's room for one more! Did you watch the LeBron special? Tell the truth... you did, didn't you? Sure the NBA isn't as pure as it used to be but not much is these days. From reality TV to the wonderful world of boxing, you have to pick your poison or rely on your girlfriend/wife for entertainment? (results may vary)

[Mr. Focus]

I hope he's done playing. It's time for him to let go

I agree. Shaq has been in the league for 17 seasons but will probably ride the bench for another year or two before calling it ah wrap. He's doing what he know and love, I guess? They say once you find what you love to do, you'll never work another day in your life!

do u think the Heat would take Shaq again or is he pretty much done playing?

Oh no, there's at least two more seasons left on that Diesel engine! If he doesn't mind a pay cut, he'll be a nice reserve for when Miami reaches the playoffs. However, now that they've signed Big Z, I doubt they'll be holding their breath.

that team is gonna be pretty good.

QFT!

[nightforceoutback11]

YES, there's plenty of hypocrites that still watch the NBA... c'mon fella, there's room for one more! Did you watch the LeBron special? Tell the truth... you did, didn't you? Sure the NBA isn't as pure as it used to be but not much is these days. From reality TV to the wonderful world of boxing, you have to pick your poison or rely on your girlfriend/wife for entertainment? (results may very)
..... I think vary was the word you were looking for. I haven't watched the NBA since Thump & Bump ruled Philly. Birds training camp will be here before you know it. Enjoy your reality TV, Boxing, & NBA. I won't be watching any. BTW NBA still stinks. I think the HEAT should add Cadillac Anderson, Winston Bennet, Kurt Nimphius,
Allen Iverson & Shawn Kemp to the roster.... last time I checked they were still all available and willing to play for the veteran min

[CharIJoe]

It'll be interesting to see how Miami does this year definately.

[Mr. Focus]

..... I think vary was the word you were looking for. ...I think the HEAT should add Cadillac Anderson, Winston Bennet, Kurt Nimphius,
Allen Iverson & Shawn Kemp to the roster.... last time I checked they were still all available and willing to play for the veteran min

D'oh! Yes, 'vary' was the right spelling. Allen Iverson? Hmm... could work, 10-day contract! Did you say, "...last time I checked"? HAH! I knew you were still a fan of the NBA! GO HEAT!!!

It'll be interesting to see how Miami does this year definately.

Speaking of Miami's home schedule; if you provide the lodging I'll provide the Heat tickets!?!

[Mr. Focus]

With all the excitement surrounding Miami, I totally forgot about Cleveland’s initial job offer to Michigan State's head coach. DAMN good call Tom!!!

[Sgt. Airborne]

It'll be interesting to see how Miami does this year definately.

It might actually get me to order the NBA package. Will they play all out during the course of the year? How will other Eastern teams like Boston, Orlando, or Chicago play them? Will every night in whatever-the-stadium-Miami-plays in be like Mardi Gras?

Who doesn't want to see the first Cleveland / Miami slaughter with the fans going crazy!?!!?!?!?!

[Sgt. Airborne]

With all the excitement surrounding Miami, I totally forgot about Cleveland’s initial job offer to Michigan State's head coach. DAMN good call Tom!!!

I don't think it was all that difficult a decision to make. Izzo is sitting pretty at MSU. Why take the chance of going to the NBA (where so many college coaches fail), to a team that may-or-may-not have LeBron, and give up everything that he worked so hard for?

Where is the incentive? I bet Pitino wishes he never took the Celts job. He gambled thinking that they would land Duncan and lost.

[boff123]

It might actually get me to order the NBA package. Will they play all out during the course of the year? How will other Eastern teams like Boston, Orlando, or Chicago play them? Will every night in whatever-the-stadium-Miami-plays in be like Mardi Gras?

Who doesn't want to see the first Cleveland / Miami slaughter with the fans going crazy!?!!?!?!?!

i am sure espn will make the heat a top priority team just how the lakers seem to on all the time.

[Jeffrozup]

With all the excitement surrounding Miami, I totally forgot about Cleveland’s initial job offer to Michigan State's head coach. DAMN good call Tom!!!

Yeah, Izzo can thank LeBron James for staying at Michigan State. Izzo tried four times to get ahold of LeBron during the interview process and James blew him off and didn't return a single phone call to Izzo or the Cavaliers.

I would have stayed in college too.

I also like how the Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert said "we let LeBron get away with not talking to Izzo" .... you let LeBron get away with a lot of stuff while in Cleveland, yet would have signed him in a heartbeat.

[Mr. Focus]

Who doesn't want to see the first Cleveland / Miami slaughter with the fans going crazy!?!!?!?!?!

OOOHH HELL YEAH! I'd love to hear Dan Gilbert 'WIRED' or at least assigned a camera for that entire first game!

[Jeffrozup]

OOOHH HELL YEAH! I'd love to hear Dan Gilbert 'WIRED' or at least assigned a camera for that entire first game!

They would have to bleep out every other word when Gilbert is watching LeBron score 50-60 points on Cleveland. I am thinking it might be the first game of the season and I believe Miami only has one visit to Cleveland this season.

[boff123]

hopefully it will be on espn.

[Jeffrozup]

hopefully it will be on espn.

Ha! That would be too funny, but there's probably a better chance its on TNT

[Sgt. Airborne]

i am sure espn will make the heat a top priority team just how the lakers seem to on all the time.

Oh, I am sure they will too along with the TNT, ESPN, NBC and the NBATV channel (man .. is there a channel not showing NBA games?), but there are only a certain amount of games / match ups that they can show with each team. Plus, I highly doubt that the Cavs are going to be good enough to even warrant showing the first Cavs / Heat game. I mean, seriously, it is going to be a slaughter and would they really show it on national tv?

[Jeffrozup]

Oh, I am sure they will too along with the TNT, ESPN, NBC and the NBATV channel (man .. is there a channel not showing NBA games?), but there are only a certain amount of games / match ups that they can show with each team. Plus, I highly doubt that the Cavs are going to be good enough to even warrant showing the first Cavs / Heat game. I mean, seriously, it is going to be a slaughter and would they really show it on national tv?

Oh yeah! Because of the storyline and David Stern loves storylines with his games. TNT probably wouldn't blow it up as much as ESPN would but definitely LeBron's first game back in Cleveland will be televised nationally.

[Mr. Focus]

Yeah, Izzo can thank LeBron James for staying at Michigan State. Izzo tried four times to get ahold of LeBron during the interview process and James blew him off and didn't return a single phone call to Izzo or the Cavaliers.

I would have stayed in college too. .
Izzo tried four times? Really? I missed that but it was wise of Izzo to reach out to LeBron beforehand. That's probably why it took him a week to decline the offer?


I also like how the Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert said "we let LeBron get away with not talking to Izzo" .... you let LeBron get away with a lot of stuff while in Cleveland, yet would have signed him in a heartbeat.

Dan is hurt no doubt about it but emotions are no excuse for an owner to react nor respond the way he has. His letter and comments made him appear unprofessional, foolish and petty... then again, they say when you squeeze a fruit whatever is on the insde will be revealed!

[Mr. Focus]

Oh, I am sure they will too along with the TNT, ESPN, NBC and the NBATV channel (man .. is there a channel not showing NBA games?), but there are only a certain amount of games / match ups that they can show with each team. Plus, I highly doubt that the Cavs are going to be good enough to even warrant showing the first Cavs / Heat game. I mean, seriously, it is going to be a slaughter and would they really show it on national tv?

Oh yeah! Because of the storyline and David Stern loves storylines with his games. TNT probably wouldn't blow it up as much as ESPN would but definitely LeBron's first game back in Cleveland will be televised nationally.

Yup!

[gunslingercbr]

Dan is hurt no doubt about it but emotions are no excuse for an owner to react nor respond the way he has. His letter and comments made him appear unprofessional, foolish and petty... then again, they say when you squeeze a fruit whatever is on the insde will be revealed!
Dan Gilbert is an imbecile and despite everyone vilifying LeBron James actually made himself come across even worse. they never got James a single player that legitimately helped him, he was literally a one man team, and they are surprised he was frustrated.

he didn't abandon the Cleveland fans, he abandoned the Cleveland organization, and you really can't blame him -- they never helped him. all the good players that have changed teams the last couple of years and Cleveland wasn't in for any one of them.

had LeBron simply handled his departure like a humble, respectful person, nobody would be saying boo about him, but he made a spectacle and ass of himself. but nobody can criticize him for leaving the Cavs, especially Dan Gilbert.

[Sgt. Airborne]

I think it’s funny how everyone always says “the Cavs didn’t surround LeBron with enough talent”. Bull$hit I say. Here are the free agents in each year since 2005:

2005 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2005: Free Agents (http://www.nba.com/transactions/player_movement2005_free_agents.html)

2006 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2006: Free Agents by Name (http://www.nba.com/transactions/movement2006_name.html)

2007 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2007: Free Agents by Name (http://www.nba.com/transactions/movement2007_name.html)

2008 - 2008 NBA Free Agents | NBA Free Agents | NBA Free Agency (http://www.sportscity.com/NBA/NBA-Free-Agents-2008/)

2009 - 2009-2010 NBA free agency - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=FreeAgents-09-10)

IMHO, there wasn’t a whole lot out there. Where is the IA / 1B superstar that can be Robin to his Batman? Where is the player that would put them over the hump? I say over the hump because look at the team’s performance since 2005.

2005 / 2006 – Lost Conference Semifinals.
2006 / 2007 – Lost NBA Finals.
2007 / 2008 – Lost Conference Semifinals.
2008 / 2009 – Lost Conference Finals.
2009 / 2010 – Lost Conference Semifinals.

This was a very good team with a terrific regular season record every year. So it’s not like they could have drafted a good player – because their pick was always so low. Personally, I don’t think that there was a whole lot to get in the free agent market. (Don’t forget Boozer screwed them over in .. 2004 / 2005 as well). Sure, maybe they could have found someone dumb – IE the Grizzlies – to gift-wrap a terrific player (like Gasol) for a bucket of used balls and towels but it’s unlikely. Oh wait, they DID do that last year with the Wizards and Jamison! I think that the Cavs management did do everything in their power over the last few years to get LeBron the team he so desperately wanted – unfortunately in order to do so, it left them completely out of the 2010 free agent market when a number of good free agents DID become available.

Look at how BAD the teams were that could have landed multi-max cap players this year, the Knicks, the Nets, the Heat…. Only Chicago with it’s very young team has had any recent success. All the rest have been terrible for years. Practically saving that cap room for the 2010 free agent fest. Heck, the 2010 free agents have been the only thing to look forward to for the Knicks!

You can blame Cavs management if you want. I might even agree to some extent with you. However. I think LeBron also shares in the blame. Where is his leadership? Where is his ability to make those around him better? To elevate his team to that next level? You can’t be all cocky for the entire season snapping away pictures in pre-game ceremonies and running teams out of the building … to practically pouting after you continue to get smacked in the face in the playoffs. You notice how NO ONE has asked Lebron how is arm is during this free-agency period? You remember that arm don’t you? It wasn’t bothering him supposedly but he made an effort every chance he could to show discomfort whether it be shooting free throws with the other arm or constantly tugging at the sleeve he wore.

IMHO, LeBron wanted to take credit for all the success, but not own up to any of the failures.

[Mr. Focus]

more importantly, f' the Cavs franchise.

YEEEAAHHHHHH BOI... holla back, Miami BEACH! LOL

[gunslingercbr]

I think it’s funny how everyone always says “the Cavs didn’t surround LeBron with enough talent”. Bull$hit I say. Here are the free agents in each year since 2005:

2005 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2005: Free Agents (http://www.nba.com/transactions/player_movement2005_free_agents.html)

2006 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2006: Free Agents by Name (http://www.nba.com/transactions/movement2006_name.html)

2007 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2007: Free Agents by Name (http://www.nba.com/transactions/movement2007_name.html)

2008 - 2008 NBA Free Agents | NBA Free Agents | NBA Free Agency (http://www.sportscity.com/NBA/NBA-Free-Agents-2008/)

2009 - 2009-2010 NBA free agency - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=FreeAgents-09-10)

IMHO, there wasn’t a whole lot out there. Where is the IA / 1B superstar that can be Robin to his Batman? Where is the player that would put them over the hump? I say over the hump because look at the team’s performance since 2005.

2005 / 2006 – Lost Conference Semifinals.
2006 / 2007 – Lost NBA Finals.
2007 / 2008 – Lost Conference Semifinals.
2008 / 2009 – Lost Conference Finals.
2009 / 2010 – Lost Conference Semifinals.

This was a very good team with a terrific regular season record every year. So it’s not like they could have drafted a good player – because their pick was always so low. Personally, I don’t think that there was a whole lot to get in the free agent market. (Don’t forget Boozer screwed them over in .. 2004 / 2005 as well). Sure, maybe they could have found someone dumb – IE the Grizzlies – to gift-wrap a terrific player (like Gasol) for a bucket of used balls and towels but it’s unlikely. Oh wait, they DID do that last year with the Wizards and Jamison! I think that the Cavs management did do everything in their power over the last few years to get LeBron the team he so desperately wanted – unfortunately in order to do so, it left them completely out of the 2010 free agent market when a number of good free agents DID become available.

Look at how BAD the teams were that could have landed multi-max cap players this year, the Knicks, the Nets, the Heat…. Only Chicago with it’s very young team has had any recent success. All the rest have been terrible for years. Practically saving that cap room for the 2010 free agent fest. Heck, the 2010 free agents have been the only thing to look forward to for the Knicks!

You can blame Cavs management if you want. I might even agree to some extent with you. However. I think LeBron also shares in the blame. Where is his leadership? Where is his ability to make those around him better? To elevate his team to that next level? You can’t be all cocky for the entire season snapping away pictures in pre-game ceremonies and running teams out of the building … to practically pouting after you continue to get smacked in the face in the playoffs. You notice how NO ONE has asked Lebron how is arm is during this free-agency period? You remember that arm don’t you? It wasn’t bothering him supposedly but he made an effort every chance he could to show discomfort whether it be shooting free throws with the other arm or constantly tugging at the sleeve he wore.

IMHO, LeBron wanted to take credit for all the success, but not own up to any of the failures.
not many valuable players in the NBA become free agents, but the Cavs never made any significant trades. how did the Celtics get Garnett and Allen -- trades. Lakers and Gasol -- trade.

you have to trade to get the players. who did the Cavs trade for? Antione Jamison. who else was available via trade? Amare Stoudemaire. but Jamison had another year on his contract and the Cavs didn't want to "rent" Stoudemaire. maybe if they do they get past the Celtics.

the Cavs were never willing to take a risk like that.

[Sgt. Airborne]

not many valuable players in the NBA become free agents, but the Cavs never made any significant trades. how did the Celtics get Garnett and Allen -- trades. Lakers and Gasol -- trade.

The Celts actually had to give the Wolves a LOT to get KG. Al Jefferson who is a budding All-Star. Green and Gomes, were young and athletic. Some expiring contracts and two #1 picks. In order to get Allen, the Celts had to give up ANOTHER #1 pick along with two players - ironically both of whom were traded to the Cavs, Wally Z and Delonte West. The Celts had pieces to trade because they have sucked from the early 90's into the 00's. They got young (except for Pierce), lost out in the Oden / Durant sweepstakes then had to change their philosophy. They blew up the team (keeping Pierce), and decided we have a three (or four) year window max and we are going for it. The Cavs didn't have that luxury. They sucked had no real talent in place, got Lebron, and instantly tried to build a contender around him.

As for the Lakers, that wasn't a trade, that was a debacle. How Chris Wallace - I think thats the Grizzlies GM, he is the former Celts GM I wonder why they got rid of him - makes that trade and says it is going to make the Grizzlies better with a straight face is beyond me.

you have to trade to get the players. who did the Cavs trade for? Antione Jamison. who else was available via trade? Amare Stoudemaire. but Jamison had another year on his contract and the Cavs didn't want to "rent" Stoudemaire. maybe if they do they get past the Celtics.

Entirely possible. I don't know for sure, but I have a feeling that the asking price for Amar'e would have been a lot steeper than Jamison. Essentialy, the Cavs got Jamison for just a draft pick and some second rounder because Big Z came back to them. Plus, I believe Phoneix wanted JJ Hickson who IIRC was one of LeBron's BF's no?

the Cavs were never willing to take a risk like that.

Perhaps. I bet the truth is somewhere in between. I think it's funny that in seven years LeBron was never able to lure a superstar free agent to the Cavs, but Wade was able to lure not only him but Bosh to Miami.

[gunslingercbr]

The Celts actually had to give the Wolves a LOT to get KG. Al Jefferson who is a budding All-Star. Green and Gomes, were young and athletic. Some expiring contracts and two #1 picks. In order to get Allen, the Celts had to give up ANOTHER #1 pick along with two players - ironically both of whom were traded to the Cavs, Wally Z and Delonte West. The Celts had pieces to trade because they have sucked from the early 90's into the 00's. They got young (except for Pierce), lost out in the Oden / Durant sweepstakes then had to change their philosophy. They blew up the team (keeping Pierce), and decided we have a three (or four) year window max and we are going for it. The Cavs didn't have that luxury. They sucked had no real talent in place, got Lebron, and instantly tried to build a contender around him.

As for the Lakers, that wasn't a trade, that was a debacle. How Chris Wallace - I think thats the Grizzlies GM, he is the former Celts GM I wonder why they got rid of him - makes that trade and says it is going to make the Grizzlies better with a straight face is beyond me.



Entirely possible. I don't know for sure, but I have a feeling that the asking price for Amar'e would have been a lot steeper than Jamison. Essentialy, the Cavs got Jamison for just a draft pick and some second rounder because Big Z came back to them. Plus, I believe Phoneix wanted JJ Hickson who IIRC was one of LeBron's BF's no?



Perhaps. I bet the truth is somewhere in between. I think it's funny that in seven years LeBron was never able to lure a superstar free agent to the Cavs, but Wade was able to lure not only him but Bosh to Miami.
the dynamics of what the Cavs could offer players via free agency and what the Heat could offer this year were simply different.

the price for many of the players they may have been able to acquire may have been steep, but maybe with just one more extremely talented player alongside James the team would have been better despite the quantity of marginal players and draft choices they would have had to give up. but they were too conservative and wanted to rely on James and what they had.

I think they had to be more aggressive, and they weren't, and that is where they came up short.

[Mr. Focus]

I think it’s funny how everyone always says “the Cavs didn’t surround LeBron with enough talent”. Bull$hit I say. Here are the free agents in each year since 2005:

IMHO, there wasn’t a whole lot out there. Where is the IA / 1B superstar that can be Robin to his Batman? Where is the player that would put them over the hump? I say over the hump because look at the team’s performance since 2005.

This was a very good team with a terrific regular season record every year. So it’s not like they could have drafted a good player – because their pick was always so low. Personally, I don’t think that there was a whole lot to get in the free agent market. (Don’t forget Boozer screwed them over in .. 2004 / 2005 as well). Sure, maybe they could have found someone dumb – IE the Grizzlies – to gift-wrap a terrific player (like Gasol) for a bucket of used balls and towels but it’s unlikely. Oh wait, they DID do that last year with the Wizards and Jamison! I think that the Cavs management did do everything in their power over the last few years to get LeBron the team he so desperately wanted – unfortunately in order to do so, it left them completely out of the 2010 free agent market when a number of good free agents DID become available.

You can blame Cavs management if you want. I might even agree to some extent with you. However. I think LeBron also shares in the blame. Where is his leadership? Where is his ability to make those around him better? To elevate his team to that next level? You can’t be all cocky for the entire season snapping away pictures in pre-game ceremonies and running teams out of the building … to practically pouting after you continue to get smacked in the face in the playoffs. You notice how NO ONE has asked Lebron how is arm is during this free-agency period? You remember that arm don’t you? It wasn’t bothering him supposedly but he made an effort every chance he could to show discomfort whether it be shooting free throws with the other arm or constantly tugging at the sleeve he wore.

IMHO, LeBron wanted to take credit for all the success, but not own up to any of the failures.

WOW, that was quite a post! Let’s see here… "Cavs didn’t surround LeBron with enough talent because there wasn’t a whole lot out there. They couldn’t draft a good player because their draft pick was always so low. There wasn’t much of a free agent market. Cavs got LeBron Lamison… errr, Jamison." You think that the Cavs management did do everything in their power over the last few years. You gave us permission to blame the Cavs management and agree to some extent with us. You think LeBron also shares in the blame.

You do realize this post supports and surprisingly confirms the fact that the Cav’s organization DID NOT surround LeBron with talented players, right? How does LeBron share the blame in obtaining talented players?

After you listed Cleveland’s post season exploits for the last five seasons and mentioning their ‘terrific’ regular season record, you ask about LeBron’s leadership, his ability to make those around him better and his ability to elevate his team to that next level? You do realize Cleveland NEVER made it to the finals until the ‘CHOSEN ONE’ arrived? What about those two MVP trophies? Personally, I’ll never forget how LeBron encouraged Gibson during that Detroit play-off series in 2007.

[boff123]

jamison maybe when he 1st came into the league, just cause you an all star from the wizards? he took a bunch of shots and scored 20 a game. big deal, arenas wasn't there so someone had to launch up all the shots as the rest of team were a bunch of no shows. shaq? another over the hill star who thought he could team up and win. no superman, you just clog up the lane and are good for 6 fouls.

you want some bums that he made better: mo williams & delonte west. if you really want to see how well they play or if their inflated stats mean anything, wait till next season. defenses would 2 or 3 man lj so he could kick it out to them. i am expected 10 points or less average for both of them since teams wont have the big scorer to guard. maybe you can get bobbie gibson playing again?

the brazilian guy with the big hair was the only hustler on that team.

[Mr. Focus]

NEWS FLASH: Mike Miller signs five-year deal with Heat! His stats may not be as impressive as I'd like but he did shoot 48% from 3-point range last season.

[Sgt. Airborne]

WOW, that was quite a post! Let’s see here… "Cavs didn’t surround LeBron with enough talent because there wasn’t a whole lot out there. They couldn’t draft a good player because their draft pick was always so low. There wasn’t much of a free agent market. Cavs got LeBron Lamison… errr, Jamison." You think that the Cavs management did do everything in their power over the last few years. You gave us permission to blame the Cavs management and agree to some extent with us. You think LeBron also shares in the blame.

As I said, I don't think that Cavs management is entirely to blame. Everyone is saying that they didn't do enough to surround Lebron with quality players to win a championship ... yet they did make moves that made the team a formitable one in the regular season and got them into the playoffs every year for the past five to six years. Oh wait, am I supposed to believe that THE CHOSEN ONE is the SOLE reason for their sucess in the regular season and post-season? That the surrounding cast had NOTHING to do with ANY of the success over the last five years?

My point was and still is... what more could they have done in the last five years? Everyone says that they should have done more. Ok, who was this superstar that the Cavs management should have traded for or signed in the offseason? Tell me. Please. The only example I have seen is that they should have gotten Amar'e - who has rumors surround him that he doesn't always come to play, and has had extensive knee AND eye injuries.

Their blame lies in constantly kowtowing to LeBron and perhaps believing that LeBron would never leave after his contract was up.

You do realize this post supports and surprisingly confirms the fact that the Cav’s organization DID NOT surround LeBron with talented players, right? How does LeBron share the blame in obtaining talented players?

My point is that Cavs management (IMHO) did the best they could with the pieces that were on the table. I am sure that every move that they made over the last five years was run past, and signed off on by LeBron before it was consummated. I am sure that they tried the best they could to appease Lebron .. yet everyone is ok with saying that they didn't do enough.

After you listed Cleveland’s post season exploits for the last five seasons and mentioning their ‘terrific’ regular season record, you ask about LeBron’s leadership, his ability to make those around him better and his ability to elevate his team to that next level? You do realize Cleveland NEVER made it to the finals until the ‘CHOSEN ONE’ arrived? What about those two MVP trophies? Personally, I’ll never forget how LeBron encouraged Gibson during that Detroit play-off series in 2007.

If you were the Cavs management and your team is winning games, making the playoffs, making it to the finals... would you blow the team up or would you try to add a piece or two that puts you over the hump? Of course you would tinker but not blow it up! That is what the Cavs did! Mo Williams, Shaq, Jamison, these were all moves to put them over the hump. Did they work out? No. Were they completely bad moves? No!

I blame Lebron because I honestly don't think he was ever serious about winning a championship in Cleveland. I don't recall Bird, Magic, Jordan, or ... I hate to say even his name... Kobe... taking faux pictures before games (playoffs or regular sesaon). I don't recall any of them making excuses (subtle or otherwise) about failure. They all were focused and determined on winning a championship. If they lost in the postseason they seem to come back twice as determined the following year. I don't get that impression with LeBron. In fact, I think that is part of the reason he joined Bosh and Wade. He no longer has to be THE Man.... something that for seven years he was all too quick to promote himself as.

Don't get me wrong. He had every right to leave and go to Miami. Hell, I prob would have done the same thing. Who wouldn't want to play in Miami with Bosh and Wade? I just don't understand or agree with how everyone is so quick to say "the Cavs didn't do enough to keep him there".

[Jeffrozup]

I think it’s funny how everyone always says “the Cavs didn’t surround LeBron with enough talent”. Bull$hit I say. Here are the free agents in each year since 2005:

2005 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2005: Free Agents (http://www.nba.com/transactions/player_movement2005_free_agents.html)

2006 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2006: Free Agents by Name (http://www.nba.com/transactions/movement2006_name.html)

2007 - NBA.com - Player Movement 2007: Free Agents by Name (http://www.nba.com/transactions/movement2007_name.html)

2008 - 2008 NBA Free Agents | NBA Free Agents | NBA Free Agency (http://www.sportscity.com/NBA/NBA-Free-Agents-2008/)

2009 - 2009-2010 NBA free agency - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=FreeAgents-09-10)

IMHO, there wasn’t a whole lot out there. Where is the IA / 1B superstar that can be Robin to his Batman? Where is the player that would put them over the hump? I say over the hump because look at the team’s performance since 2005.

2005 / 2006 – Lost Conference Semifinals.
2006 / 2007 – Lost NBA Finals.
2007 / 2008 – Lost Conference Semifinals.
2008 / 2009 – Lost Conference Finals.
2009 / 2010 – Lost Conference Semifinals.

This was a very good team with a terrific regular season record every year. So it’s not like they could have drafted a good player – because their pick was always so low. Personally, I don’t think that there was a whole lot to get in the free agent market. (Don’t forget Boozer screwed them over in .. 2004 / 2005 as well). Sure, maybe they could have found someone dumb – IE the Grizzlies – to gift-wrap a terrific player (like Gasol) for a bucket of used balls and towels but it’s unlikely. Oh wait, they DID do that last year with the Wizards and Jamison! I think that the Cavs management did do everything in their power over the last few years to get LeBron the team he so desperately wanted – unfortunately in order to do so, it left them completely out of the 2010 free agent market when a number of good free agents DID become available.

Look at how BAD the teams were that could have landed multi-max cap players this year, the Knicks, the Nets, the Heat…. Only Chicago with it’s very young team has had any recent success. All the rest have been terrible for years. Practically saving that cap room for the 2010 free agent fest. Heck, the 2010 free agents have been the only thing to look forward to for the Knicks!

You can blame Cavs management if you want. I might even agree to some extent with you. However. I think LeBron also shares in the blame. Where is his leadership? Where is his ability to make those around him better? To elevate his team to that next level? You can’t be all cocky for the entire season snapping away pictures in pre-game ceremonies and running teams out of the building … to practically pouting after you continue to get smacked in the face in the playoffs. You notice how NO ONE has asked Lebron how is arm is during this free-agency period? You remember that arm don’t you? It wasn’t bothering him supposedly but he made an effort every chance he could to show discomfort whether it be shooting free throws with the other arm or constantly tugging at the sleeve he wore.

IMHO, LeBron wanted to take credit for all the success, but not own up to any of the failures.

That's what I said about LeBron. He's good enough to lead a team to 60 wins a season (especially when 30 of them come from the bottom feeders of the Eastern Conference) but didn't make anybody better on the Cavaliers.

Mo Williams, Delonte West, Daniel Gibson, JJ Hickson, Ben Wallace, Anderson Varejao, Sasha Pavlocic, Shaquille O'Neal, Larry Hughes, etc, etc all played with LeBron and NONE of them elevated their games one bit so where did LeBron make his teammates better?

Here's another point that goes directly to LeBron and his "alpha dog" and "leadership" ability: The Cavaliers made the NBA Finals in 2007 with a mediocre roster at best and they got better in terms of talent each season following but didn't get back there.

Just one time did LeBron completely dominate in the playoffs and that was Game 5 against Detroit in 2007. Other than that, he did nothing spectacular in the postseason.

LeBron failed as an alpha dog and cannot admit it. He learned that in 2008 when he gave it his all against Boston in Game 7 and lost. He knew he didn't have "it" back then and it showed each of the last two seasons.

He's not Jordan. He's Pippen.

[Darth Cantu]

NEWS FLASH: Mike Miller signs five-year deal with Heat! His stats may not be as impressive as I'd like but he did shoot 48% from 3-point range last season.

Yes, and now Juwan Howard and maybe Matt Barnes are going to sign tomorrow. And a lot of people said Miami could not put a team together.

[Jeffrozup]

The biggest problem with the Cavaliers management is they were "reactive" instead of being "proactive" with all of their moves.

Every single trade or FA signing they did was almost like a second-option because they didn't pull the trigger on a bigger move at the time.

But to note, each and every single move made by the Cavaliers in the last five seasons was signed off by LeBron James. Every single player that came there, LeBron thought was good enough.

However, looking back now, LeBron knew he wasn't going to stay in Cleveland so he didn't care about the moves. Not even getting Amare last season and winning a title would have kept James in Cleveland. He wanted to play in South Beach and with Bosh and Wade.

Yes, and now Juwan Howard and maybe Matt Barnes are going to sign tomorrow. And a lot of people said Miami could not put a team together.

And actually, people said the Heat was going to have to be very creative to put a team together. They are getting a lot of players for the veteran's minimum, which they needed to do since they didn't have a lot of cap space.

[gunslingercbr]

Yes, and now Juwan Howard and maybe Matt Barnes are going to sign tomorrow. And a lot of people said Miami could not put a team together.

Barnes is a coup. he is a great complimentary player who goes hard and plays D.

Juwan Howard is garbage.

[Mr. Focus]

Yes, and now Juwan Howard and maybe Matt Barnes are going to sign tomorrow. And a lot of people said Miami could not put a team together.

Matt Barnes, foe reelz? I wanted him to stay with Orlando because they REALLY need his defense! Although, I'm not surprised he wasn't re-signed since Magic signed Richardson. A decision I'm a bit worried about... eh well, he's a solid addition to the Heat! Good intel. You were just kidding about Juwan Howard, right?

[arashikage tat]

^^^I hope so, Juwan Howard is a bum in my opinion, but Matt Barnes and Mike Miller are the real key acquisitions

[Mr. Focus]

As I said, I don't think that Cavs management is entirely to blame. Everyone is saying that they didn't do enough to surround Lebron with quality players to win a championship ... yet they did make moves that made the team a formitable one in the regular season and got them into the playoffs every year for the past five to six years. Oh wait, am I supposed to believe that THE CHOSEN ONE is the SOLE reason for their sucess in the regular season and post-season? That the surrounding cast had NOTHING to do with ANY of the success over the last five years?

Yes, you CAN entirely blame management. It’s their job to mange and put together championship teams. Once again you clearly stated, “Everyone is saying that they didn't do enough to surround Lebron with quality players to win a championship” This is the point! But then you follow with, “yet they did make moves that made the team a formidable one in the regular season and got them into the playoffs every year for the past five to six years.” That’s EXACTLY the reason LeBron left, Cleveland couldn’t secure a championship and their future looked discouraging! YES, Lebron aka THE CHOSEN ONE is the SOLE reason for their success in the regular season and post-season and that the surrounding cast had NOTHING to do with ANY of the success over the last five years. Seriously, the other players on Cleveland made typical role player contributions; most of which were setup or made possible by LeBron’s presence on the court. Cleveland has averaged 60 wins in each of the last two seasons, ironically LeBron received an MVP trophy for each of those seasons. Hey listen, you don’t have to believe LeBron was the sole reason if you don’t want to but you’ll have ALL next season to reconsider your stance. According to your words, Cleveland should be able to win at least 50 games without LeBron, right? No offense, but you sound like Dan Gilbert.



My point was and still is... what more could they have done in the last five years? Everyone says that they should have done more. Ok, who was this superstar that the Cavs management should have traded for or signed in the offseason? Tell me. Please. The only example I have seen is that they should have gotten Amar'e - who has rumors surround him that he doesn't always come to play, and has had extensive knee AND eye injuries. Their blame lies in constantly kowtowing to LeBron and perhaps believing that LeBron would never leave after his contract was up.

Bottom line: Cleveland couldn’t get it done. If the roles were reversed, LeBron would’ve been released loooooooong before that 7th year!



My point is that Cavs management (IMHO) did the best they could with the pieces that were on the table. I am sure that every move that they made over the last five years was run past, and signed off on by LeBron before it was consummated. I am sure that they tried the best they could to appease Lebron .. yet everyone is ok with saying that they didn't do enough.

Okay, I get you… Cavs management did the best they could with the pieces that were on the table… and it wasn’t enough! A-YO Cleveland Cavaliers… YOU’RE FIRED!!!



I blame Lebron because I honestly don't think he was ever serious about winning a championship in Cleveland. I don't recall Bird, Magic, Jordan, or ... I hate to say even his name... Kobe... taking faux pictures before games (playoffs or regular sesaon). I don't recall any of them making excuses (subtle or otherwise) about failure. They all were focused and determined on winning a championship. If they lost in the postseason they seem to come back twice as determined the following year. I don't get that impression with LeBron. In fact, I think that is part of the reason he joined Bosh and Wade. He no longer has to be THE Man.... something that for seven years he was all too quick to promote himself as.

You blame Lebron because you feel he wasn’t serious about winning a championship in Cleveland? You do realize he left for an opportunity to win multiple championships, right? More importantly, you JUST gave all those accolades to the ‘surrounding’ players… seem like you’d share the blame with them as well? Funny, you should be very upset with the surrounding players since they’re a small part of the reason LeBron left.


Don't get me wrong. He had every right to leave and go to Miami. Hell, I prob would have done the same thing. Who wouldn't want to play in Miami with Bosh and Wade? I just don't understand or agree with how everyone is so quick to say "the Cavs didn't do enough to keep him there".

First off, we weren’t quick to judge. We waited seven years and one ‘2010 decision’ special before we came to our conclusion. I would ask you if you really thought Cleveland did enough to keep LeBron but it would be rhetorical… since he left!

[Darth Cantu]

Matt Barnes, foe reelz? I wanted him to stay with Orlando because they REALLY need his defense! Although, I'm not surprised he wasn't re-signed since Magic signed Richardson. A decision I'm a bit worried about... eh well, he's a solid addition to the Heat! Good intel. You were just kidding about Juwan Howard, right?

No, he will sign on Friday, and Matt Barnes will decide on the Mavs, Lakers or the Heat Fri also. But at least Orlando matched the Bulls for J.J. Oh and T-Mac to the Clippers? He's trying out next week for them:)

[boff123]

That's what I said about LeBron. He's good enough to lead a team to 60 wins a season (especially when 30 of them come from the bottom feeders of the Eastern Conference) but didn't make anybody better on the Cavaliers.

Mo Williams, Delonte West, Daniel Gibson, JJ Hickson, Ben Wallace, Anderson Varejao, Sasha Pavlocic, Shaquille O'Neal, Larry Hughes, etc, etc all played with LeBron and NONE of them elevated their games one bit so where did LeBron make his teammates better?

Here's another point that goes directly to LeBron and his "alpha dog" and "leadership" ability: The Cavaliers made the NBA Finals in 2007 with a mediocre roster at best and they got better in terms of talent each season following but didn't get back there.

Just one time did LeBron completely dominate in the playoffs and that was Game 5 against Detroit in 2007. Other than that, he did nothing spectacular in the postseason.

LeBron failed as an alpha dog and cannot admit it. He learned that in 2008 when he gave it his all against Boston in Game 7 and lost. He knew he didn't have "it" back then and it showed each of the last two seasons.

He's not Jordan. He's Pippen.

did you read your last paragraph? you want the man to play 5 vs 1. he scored 45, had 5 rebounds and 6 assists. what more did you really expect of him? he scored almost 1/2 the team's points (92 total). you can definitely blame the loss on the rest of the bums who provided zero support.

[Mr. Focus]

No, he will sign on Friday, and Matt Barnes will decide on the Mavs, Lakers or the Heat Fri also. But at least Orlando matched the Bulls for J.J. Oh and T-Mac to the Clippers? He's trying out next week for them:)

YES!!! Orlando has retained J.J., good job Magic! I wasn't sure they were going to match Chicago's handsome offer. Makes me wonder; why didn't they move Vince Carter to small forward and start J.J. while rotating Barnes and Pietrus instead of replacing Barnes with Richardson? Hmm... I now understand why the Magic is taking a chance with Richardson. Think about it; if you had to change one thing with Orlando's starting five, based on how they exited the last two playoffs, what one thing would you change? EXACTLY... another scorer to ease more pressure off of Howard. Being an advocate of defense, I don't like it but I guess I seen this coming because Orlando shoots more three-pointers than they run plays! If Orlando doesn't make it to the 2011 NBA Finals then they should fire Stan, and trade Richardson, Carter and Nelson in an attempt to get Chris Paul and Carmelo (free agent in 2011)!

Just imagine...
C- Dwight Howard
PF- Rashard Lewis
SF- Carmelo Anthony
SG- J.J. Redick/Pietrus
PG- Chris Paul

I'm getting all excited just thinking about it! If that happens I'd probably buy a winter home in Florida and season tickets to both Heat and Magic. Hmm... a location off the beach or somewhere in the middle of both stadiums? ARGHHH, that's a toughfy!

T-mac is still in the league? GOD bless 'em! WOW, your intel must becoming from an NBA agent or NBA rep? Keep it comin' 'SLICK'!

[boff123]

i really hope tmac leaves the knicks. he is a shell of his former self.

[Darth Cantu]

YES!!! Orlando has retained J.J., good job Magic! I wasn't sure they were going to match Chicago's handsome offer. Makes me wonder; why didn't they move Vince Carter to small forward and start J.J. while rotating Barnes and Pietrus instead of replacing Barnes with Richardson? Hmm... I now understand why the Magic is taking a chance with Richardson. Think about it; if you had to change one thing with Orlando's starting five, based on how they exited the last two playoffs, what one thing would you change? EXACTLY... another scorer to ease more pressure off of Howard. Being an advocate of defense, I don't like it but I guess I seen this coming because Orlando shoots more three-pointers than they run plays! If Orlando doesn't make it to the 2011 NBA Finals then they should fire Stan, and trade Richardson, Carter and Nelson in an attempt to get Chris Paul and Carmelo (free agent in 2011)!

Just imagine...
C- Dwight Howard
PF- Rashard Lewis
SF- Carmelo Anthony
SG- J.J. Redick/Pietrus
PG- Chris Paul

I'm getting all excited just thinking about it! If that happens I'd probably buy a winter home in Florida and season tickets to both Heat and Magic. Hmm... a location off the beach or somewhere in the middle of both stadiums? ARGHHH, that's a toughfy!

T-mac is still in the league? GOD bless 'em! WOW, your intel must becoming from an NBA agent or NBA rep? Keep it comin' 'SLICK'!

I think it will be Orlando and Miami playing each other in the Conference Finals to see who goes to the Finals this year. I just don't see Boston making it, they are getting to old, fast. As for the intel, even Penny Hardaway is going to try out for the Heat and hope to get a spot on the roster, this was on the Orlando Sentinel:)

If you want to check out some of the action going on in free agency "Mr. Focus" check out this site and hit rumors HoopsHype - The NBA Basketball Web Site (http://hoopshype.com/)

[solid.wii]

I think that it's a Catch 22 situation because Lebon opted out to become a free agent. Many coaches and players refused to go to the Cavs because they didn't know if Lebron was going to be there in the future. Oh the irony.

[Jeffrozup]

Well if the Penny Hardaway rumors to the Heat are true, then they are indeed a lock to win the title :D

[arashikage tat]

Isn't Penny Hardaway like 47yrs old? :)

[Mr. Focus]

I think it will be Orlando and Miami playing each other in the Conference Finals to see who goes to the Finals this year. I just don't see Boston making it, they are getting to old, fast. As for the intel, even Penny Hardaway is going to try out for the Heat and hope to get a spot on the roster, this was on the Orlando Sentinel:)

If you want to check out some of the action going on in free agency "Mr. Focus" check out this site and hit rumors HoopsHype - The NBA Basketball Web Site (http://hoopshype.com/)

Good LOKKIN' on the 'HoopsHype' website! FTW

[Mr. Focus]

Miami Heat 2010-2011 roster
---------------------------

Starters:
C-Zydrunas Ilgauskas
PF-Chris Bosh
SF-LeBron James
SG-Dwayne Wade
PG-*Carlos Arroyo

Reserves:
6.) Mike Miller
7.) Mario Chalmers
8.) Udonis Haslem
9.) Joel Anthony
10.) Dexter Pittman
11.) *Jamaal Magloire
12.) *Juwan Howard
13.) *James Jones
*soon to be signed

Rumors:
Jason Williams
Keyon Dooling
Chris Quinn

[Darth Cantu]

Miami Heat 2010-2011 roster
---------------------------

Starters:
C-Zydrunas Ilgauskas
PF-Chris Bosh
SF-LeBron James
SG-Dwayne Wade
PG-*Carlos Arroyo

Reserves:
6.) Mike Miller
7.) Mario Chalmers
8.) Udonis Haslem
9.) Joey Anthony
10.) Dexter Pittman
11.) *Jamaal Magloire
12.) *Juwan Howard
13.) *James Jones
*soon to be signed

Rumors:
Jason Williams
Keyon Dooling
Chris Quinn

I think the starting lineup will have Mike Miller at SG and D. Wade at PG, because it don't matter who starts at PG. When it comes down to it L. James and D. Wade will bring the ball up during the game.

[Mr. Focus]

I think the starting lineup will have Mike Miller at SG and D. Wade at PG, because it don't matter who starts at PG. When it comes down to it L. James and D. Wade will bring the ball up during the game.

There are soooo many possibilities! In support of the 'Super Friends' administering justice to the league; I prefer Miller to help provide offense from off the bench.

[G.I.Spawn]

There are soooo many possibilities! In support of the 'Super Friends' administering justice to the league; I prefer Miller to help provide offense from off the bench.

I also think Miller would make the perfect 6th man. and screw Penny Hardaway. I hope the Heat don't give him a chance

[Mr. Focus]

I also think Miller would make the perfect 6th man. and screw Penny Hardaway. I hope the Heat don't give him a chance

No worries... Pat 'The man with a plan' Riley isn't playing around with the notion that Miami can win the 2011 championship!

"A New World Order is in place after the draft and free agency, and the Heat is rising in the East. Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh, along with a better-than-anticipated supporting cast, will make sure of that much."

"We’ve foolishly resisted the urge to jump on the Heat bandwagon the past 10 days. But after several conversations with some of our best sources, we’ve reconsidered that position. “You saw what happened in Boston,” a veteran player who recently signed with a Western Conference playoff power reminded us via text. “Don’t be a fool. Those boys are already the best team in the East. Hands down.” Wade, Bosh and James are easily the best, three-man nucleus in the league (sorry Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Ron Artest or Andrew Bynum). But the supporting cast being assembled in Miami is first-rate as well. Veterans like Udonis Haselm, Mike Miller, Zydrunas Ilgauskas and James Jones should help the Heat separate the Heat from the rest of the pack in the East. The brunt of the title chase, however, rests with the Three Amigos. And while Erik Spoelstra is no Doc Rivers, anyone assuming he can’t handle the egos he has been handed by Pat Riley is underestimating the abilities of one of the league’s brightest young coaches."

-by Sekou Smith
Rates Miami Heat #1 in the eastern conference!

[G.I.Spawn]

^ Well put. It looks like the supporting cast isn't gonna try to steal the lime light. I think Penny Hardaway if given a chance, might do that.

[Mr. Focus]

Miami Heat 2010-2011 roster (updated)
-------------------------------------

Starters:
C-Zydrunas Ilgauskas
PF-Chris Bosh
SF-LeBron James
SG-Dwayne Wade
PG-*Carlos Arroyo

Reserves:
6.) Mike Miller
7.) Mario Chalmers
8.) Udonis Haslem
9.) Joey Anthony
10.) Dexter Pittman
11.) Jamaal Magloire
12.) *Juwan Howard
13.) James Jones

*soon to be signed

Rumors:
Jason Williams
Keyon Dooling
Chris Quinn

[zx670]

Yes, you CAN entirely blame management. It’s their job to mange and put together championship teams. Once again you clearly stated, “Everyone is saying that they didn't do enough to surround Lebron with quality players to win a championship” This is the point! But then you follow with, “yet they did make moves that made the team a formidable one in the regular season and got them into the playoffs every year for the past five to six years.” [b]That’s EXACTLY the reason LeBron left, Cleveland couldn’t secure a championship and their future looked discouraging!

Er, isn't that on LeBron, then, and not the Cavs management? I'm sorry, but if you, as management, put together a team together around LeBron that records the best record in the NBA two seasons in a row and that team fails to get to the Finals, that is on the team and coach, not on management.

And yes, I understand playoff basketball is much different from the regular season. Still, with the supposed best player in the league on the best team heading into the playoffs, plenty more blame lies on the players and coach than on management for not getting it done.

And actually, people said the Heat was going to have to be very creative to put a team together. They are getting a lot of players for the veteran's minimum, which they needed to do since they didn't have a lot of cap space.

I didn't think they could, but I also didn't think all of these players would give up so much money to basically leech off the big three just to get a championship ring. That's all that is going on here.

[Mr. Focus]

Er, isn't that on LeBron, then, and not the Cavs management? I'm sorry, but if you, as management, put together a team together around LeBron that records the best record in the NBA two seasons in a row and that team fails to get to the Finals, that is on the team and coach, not on management.

And yes, I understand playoff basketball is much different from the regular season. Still, with the supposed best player in the league on the best team heading into the playoffs, plenty more blame lies on the players and coach than on management for not getting it done.
You can’t single out one player as the reason you fell short in the playoffs. There’s a difference in saying, “Tracey McGrady couldn’t get it done in Houston”, as opposed to “McGrady is the reason Houston couldn’t get a championship.”

The ‘blame management’ argument derived from looking at the last seven seasons of Cav’s basketball, my outlook of the next two seasons in Cleveland and LeBron’s decision to leave. Understand, two years is too short of a period to judge one’s effectiveness in the front office.

You seem unbiased? Now that you have the proper context; seven seasons with no championship, a poor outlook for the next two seasons’ and Lebron leaving, who’s to blame?

[Mr. Focus]

And actually, people said the Heat was going to have to be very creative to put a team together. They are getting a lot of players for the veteran's minimum, which they needed to do since they didn't have a lot of cap space.

I didn't think they could, but I also didn't think all of these players would give up so much money to basically leech off the big three just to get a championship ring. That's all that is going on here.

LOL... That's the EXACT reason I KNEW that there would be a better than anticipated supporting cast! Understand, role/bench players are just as or possibly more eager to join championship bound teams than star players. The big three taking less money, Wade the least of the three, set the example and expectation. Such sacrifice is why I KNOW Miami’s new trio will not only workout but also deliver multiple championships, “…not two, not three, not four, not five, not six, not seven!” LOL

[loiosh]

As a clevelander, I have never been big into Basketball. I'm to fat and to short to play it, so I dont even have an interest. But I rotted for them, and still will, Ya gotta stick with the home team. I am glad Lebron left! why? not for the reasons everyone else from Cleveland is saying, they are as the urban culture would say "Hating" I am loving all the great deals I got the weekend he made his "decision" Like a pair of 100 dollar Lebron James headphones for 95% off. so I paid like 7 bucks for them, or the 200 dollar Nike shoes I got for 25 bucks! I saved over 250 bucks!

[Dawg99]

Can't wait for the Heat SuperFriends to start playing gonna be interesting

[Mr. Focus]

As a clevelander, I have never been big into Basketball. I'm to fat and to short to play it, so I dont even have an interest. But I rotted for them, and still will, Ya gotta stick with the home team. I am glad Lebron left! why? not for the reasons everyone else from Cleveland is saying, they are as the urban culture would say "Hating" I am loving all the great deals I got the weekend he made his "decision" Like a pair of 100 dollar Lebron James headphones for 95% off. so I paid like 7 bucks for them, or the 200 dollar Nike shoes I got for 25 bucks! I saved over 250 bucks!

The proverbial lemonade... ABSOLUTELY! I like your attitude young man.

Can't wait for the Heat SuperFriends to start playing gonna be interesting

YES SIRRRRRRRR!!! To borrow a line from 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, "Miami 3:16 means (3)Wade, (1)Bosh and (6)LeBron just whipped your ARSE!"

YouTube - The Birth Of Austin 3:16 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_atmzsOrK0&feature=related)

[arashikage tat]

I just hope Shaq signs with the Heat so he can slow them down and ruin whatever identity the team is trying to develop :)

[zx670]

You can’t single out one player as the reason you fell short in the playoffs. There’s a difference in saying, “Tracey McGrady couldn’t get it done in Houston”, as opposed to “McGrady is the reason Houston couldn’t get a championship.”

The ‘blame management’ argument derived from looking at the last seven seasons of Cav’s basketball, my outlook of the next two seasons in Cleveland and LeBron’s decision to leave. Understand, two years is too short of a period to judge one’s effectiveness in the front office.

You seem unbiased? Now that you have the proper context; seven seasons with no championship, a poor outlook for the next two seasons’ and Lebron leaving, who’s to blame?

Yeah, I'm unbiased here. I really don't care much for basketball, but the Rockets are my team. Still, I can't agree with your argument that it's not on LeBron, it's on the management. It may not be on LeBron, but that doesn't mean blame the management.

I threw the last two seasons out there just because I knew they had the best record in the league those two seasons. Let's go back farther, though. They've made the playoffs the last 5 seasons, 4 of them with 50 or more wins, the last two with the best record in the league. That tells me management was putting a better product on the court each year without dissecting this too far. The team was getting better, so good in fact they were the best in the league in the regular season the final two years of his stay there. How is not winning a championship, knowing that to be the case, on management's shoulders?

Granted, you could take the lazy way out and say the team's failures are always on management, but that's BS and we all know it. At some point the players have to be held accountable.

And please note I never mention he is to blame, only that management is not. The team should have done better, he is the focus of the team so he will get the majority of the credit in winning and blame in losing, but that's what happens when you're the star.

Perhaps that's another reason for him to go to Miami, he's no longer the top dog, that's now Wade's spot.

[Mr. Focus]

Still, I can't agree with your argument that it's not on LeBron, it's on the management. It may not be on LeBron, but that doesn't mean blame the management.

I read your entire post and you failed to answer my question. I understand that you have a different opinion, which was established in your first post… I GOT IT! Do you realize if you don’t answer or at least acknowledge my questions, of which opens the conversation, then we’re just two stubborn individuals whose ideal of winning the argument is by getting the last word? Again, who’s the blame after seven seasons?


I threw the last two seasons out there just because I knew they had the best record in the league those two seasons. Let's go back farther, though. They've made the playoffs the last 5 seasons, 4 of them with 50 or more wins, the last two with the best record in the league. That tells me management was putting a better product on the court each year without dissecting this too far. The team was getting better, so good in fact they were the best in the league in the regular season the final two years of his stay there. How is not winning a championship, knowing that to be the case, on management's shoulders?

C’mon, making the playoffs from the Eastern conference is nothing to brag about. Charlotte Bobcats made it to the playoffs this year, Philadelphia made it two of the last three seasons and Washington made it three of the last five seasons. Funny, the Western conference has won eight of the last eleven NBA Championships! Wow, the Cleveland organization obtained the best record for the last two years... that’s good. The only thing I remember is LA beating Orlando in 2009 for the NBA Championship, the '10 Detroit Pistons sucking x10 and LA beating Boston to repeat as NBA Champions.

BOTTOM LINE: Cleveland didn't get it done which has ironically drastically affected ALL that 'better product' you mentioned. Let this be a lesson to you boys and girls; Don't let being 'GOOD' stop you from becoming 'GREAT'!

You asked, “How is not winning a championship on management's shoulders?” We’re going in circles here 'SPARKY'… my last post asked you, “After seven seasons who do you blame? Why hasn’t Cleveland won a championship? Why did LeBron leave?”

Granted, you could take the lazy way out and say the team's failures are always on management, but that's BS and we all know it. At some point the players have to be held accountable.

Stay in the context of this discussion. We’re talking about the summation of seven seasons, seven NBA drafts, seven free agency buffets and seven trading deadlines.


And please note I never mention [LeBron] is to blame, only that management is not. The team should have done better, [LeBron] is the focus of the team so he will get the majority of the credit in winning and blame in losing, but that's what happens when you're the star.

Your post from 12:10 pm (ET) 7-20-2010...
Er, isn't that on LeBron, then, and not the Cavs management?

Sounds like you’re blaming LeBron to me? Win, lose, and star or not… after seven seasons, I’d hoped you’d start looking closer at your organization as a whole because if you keep doing what you been doing, you’re going to keep getting what you been getting... which, in this case, has been an early exit despite your exploits during the regular season.

Lastly, you don’t have to gain my perception but you could at least answer my questions... all three of them.

[Mr. Focus]

I just hope Shaq signs with the Heat so he can slow them down and ruin whatever identity the team is trying to develop :)

Tat... not you? Say it ain't so? That 'HATER-aid' isn't good for you 'SLICK'. It's like 99.9% sodium!

[arashikage tat]

Tat... not you? Say it ain't so? That 'HATER-aid' isn't good for you 'SLICK'. It's like 99.9% sodium!


LMAO!!! I know...I'm gonna die a bitter salty old man! :)

[Mr. Focus]

LMAO!!! I know...I'm gonna die a bitter salty old man! :)

Before you die, I thought you should know...

"Shaq, T-Mac and AI have all expressed interest in joining the most hated team in the league, yet you needn’t expect any of them to land on South Beach. In assembling a supporting cast for LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh on a severely limited budget, Miami has made it clear that it doesn’t want to add anyone, no matter how much money he's willing to sacrifice, who could conceivably challenge the chemistry or threaten to divert focus away from the three SuperFriends. O’Neal, frankly, was never a consideration after his stinging critiques of Miami’s training staff upon arrival in Phoenix and his history of slamming Bosh. Two former All-Stars whom the Heat are far more likely to consider are Jerry Stackhouse and Michael Finley." -Marc Stein

I'd pick Stackhouse. I've told you guys before, Riley isn't playing around... IT'S NOT A GAME PEOPLE!!!

[Mr. Focus]

If Orlando doesn't make it to the 2011 NBA Finals then they should fire Stan, and trade Richardson, Carter and Nelson in an attempt to get Chris Paul and Carmelo (free agent in 2011)!

Just imagine...
C- Dwight Howard
PF- Rashard Lewis
SF- Carmelo Anthony
SG- J.J. Redick/Pietrus
PG- Chris Paul

I'm getting all excited just thinking about it! If that happens I'd probably buy a winter home in Florida and season tickets to both Heat and Magic. Hmm... a location off the beach or somewhere in the middle of both stadiums? ARGHHH, that's a toughfy!



Wednesday's CBSSports.com report said Paul saw what his friend LeBron James did in signing to play alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh with the Miami Heat, and has designs on doing something similar. "He wants out," the person with knowledge of Paul's plans told CBSSports.com. "He wants to play with another superstar."

The New York Knicks, Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers are on Paul's list of preferred destinations, sources told CBSSports.com. The sources said members of Paul's "inner circle" have told the Hornets the guard wants out in part because "he feels like 'THEY haven't put the right pieces together." Do you see a pattern zx670?

Any-who... MAGIC, this is your chance! It's all coming together like I called it above. Sure it's happening an season earlier than expected but the time is NOW! Orlando, get on da friggin' horn and trade Nelson & Richardson... LET'S GO, MOVE, MOVE, MOVE!!!

Hmm... I'm leaning towards a home off the beach? :)

[zx670]

I read your entire post and you failed to answer my question. I understand that you have a different opinion, which was established in your first post… I GOT IT! Do you realize if you don’t answer or at least acknowledge my questions, of which opens the conversation, then we’re just two stubborn individuals whose ideal of winning the argument is by getting the last word? Again, who’s the blame after seven seasons?

You should read more carefully. I asked a question trying to be funny, followed by my answer to the question you are browbeating me for not answering in a post BEFORE you actually asked it. Check it:

Er, isn't that on LeBron, then, and not the Cavs management? I'm sorry, but if you, as management, put together a team together around LeBron that records the best record in the NBA two seasons in a row and that team fails to get to the Finals, that is on the team and coach, not on management.

Repeat: On the team and coach, not on management. Answered.

C’mon, making the playoffs from the Eastern conference is nothing to brag about. Charlotte Bobcats made it to the playoffs this year, Philadelphia made it two of the last three seasons and Washington made it three of the last five seasons. Funny, the Western conference has won eight of the last eleven NBA Championships! Wow, the Cleveland organization obtained the best record for the last two years... that’s good. The only thing I remember is LA beating Orlando in 2009 for the NBA Championship, the '10 Detroit Pistons sucking x10 and LA beating Boston to repeat as NBA Champions.

Perhaps. I'd agree before now the East has been weak for a long time. Still, you have to make the playoffs for a chance to win a Championship, and thus it is still relevant here.

You asked, “How is not winning a championship on management's shoulders?” We’re going in circles here 'SPARKY'… my last post asked you, “After seven seasons who do you blame? Why hasn’t Cleveland won a championship? Why did LeBron leave?”

I believe you're going in circles, not "we". Again, seeing how I had already answered your question before it was asked, why should I be forced to repeat myself? Instead, just read more carefully.

Stay in the context of this discussion. We’re talking about the summation of seven seasons, seven NBA drafts, seven free agency buffets and seven trading deadlines.

That was in context of the discussion. The end of that summation was a team worthy of holding the best record in the NBA twice in a row. That's pretty lofty, and I'd say a job well done by management. Players (and coach) have to be held accountable.

Lastly, you don’t have to gain my perception but you could at least answer my questions... all three of them.

The other two questions do not fall into the same discussion in my opinion. Only one team wins the Championship each year. I would not, then, argue that every other team's management has failed. Therefore, I don't think Cleveland's management has failed on the sole requirement that they didn't win a Championship. And I don't care why LeBron left, could be any number of reasons, and I doubt Cleveland's management is one of those reasons.

[zx670]

The sources said members of Paul's "inner circle" have told the Hornets the guard wants out in part because "he feels like 'THEY haven't put the right pieces together." Do you see a pattern zx670?


They aren't even similar, dude. The Hornets have won over 50 games only once in the past 10 years. They won only 37 last season. Paul has a legitimate beef there, unlike LeBron IF that is even the reason he is attributing to his leaving the Cavs.

[Mr. Focus]

You should read more carefully. I asked a question trying to be funny, followed by my answer to the question you are browbeating me for not answering in a post BEFORE you actually asked it. Check it:

Repeat: On the team and coach, not on management. Answered.

I read your initial post carefully and realized that I should give you a clear explanation as to why I blame management and make certain that you’re arguing in the right context as stated below…

The ‘blame management’ argument derived from looking at the last seven seasons of Cav’s basketball, my outlook of the next two seasons in Cleveland and LeBron’s decision to leave. Understand, two years is too short of a period to judge one’s effectiveness in the front office.

You seem unbiased? Now that you have the proper context; seven seasons with no championship, a poor outlook for the next two seasons’ and Lebron leaving, who’s to blame?

You agreed and accepted the proper context when saying…

I threw the last two seasons out there just because I knew they had the best record in the league those two seasons. Let's go back farther, though.

At that point our discussion actually began on the topic at hand and your input held more value since it took into consideration where I was coming from.


Perhaps. I'd agree before now the East has been weak for a long time. Still, you have to make the playoffs for a chance to win a Championship, and thus it is still relevant here.

But if you don’t win the playoffs your stated relevance is as significant as Toronto, Washington and Charlotte and provides a poor rationale of a job well done; as if, after seven seasons and no championship in sight, just making the playoffs is good enough?



I believe you're going in circles, not "we". Again, seeing how I had already answered your question before it was asked, why should I be forced to repeat myself? Instead, just read more carefully.

If it’s anything I can be accused of it's the tolerance for… nevermind. This statement only confirms you had a stubborn/one-sided stance during our discussion which explains why it has been so hard for me to open up this conversation. So you were done with this topic after your first post? After all our discourse you reference an answer, based on two seasons, from your initial post; despite my attempts to place us on the same page? What a waste of time and energy. Fool me twice, shame on me!




That was in context of the discussion. The end of that summation was a team worthy of holding the best record in the NBA twice in a row. That's pretty lofty, and I'd say a job well done by management. Players (and coach) have to be held accountable.



You said, “Granted, you could take the lazy way out and say the team's failures are always on management, but that's BS and we all know it. At some point the players have to be held accountable.” This statement is flawed and lacks the context of seven seasons in its ‘entirety’ nor does it acknowledge my first critique that you can’t judge the front offices effectiveness within a two year period; saying ‘always’ pertains to yearly. Players and coaches should be held accountable but only in the short-term. After the summation of seven seasons and the realization that you’ve inter-changed the coaching staff and the players… nevermind.


The other two questions do not fall into the same discussion in my opinion. Only one team wins the Championship each year. I would not, then, argue that every other team's management has failed. Therefore, I don't think Cleveland's management has failed on the sole requirement that they didn't win a Championship. And I don't care why LeBron left, could be any number of reasons, and I doubt Cleveland's management is one of those reasons.

The other two questions were, “Why hasn’t Cleveland won a championship?” and “Why did LeBron leave?” Really, these questions don’t fall into a discussion about Cleveland’s last seven seasons? You do realize those two questions are derivatives of our topic, ‘who’s to blame’, right?

No, you shouldn’t argue that every other team's management has failed because we’re talking about Cleveland, remember? After seven seasons and different combinations of both coaches and players, you feel Cleveland's management hasn’t failed on the sole requirement that they didn't win a Championship. What do you think is management’s job? Some would say Miami’s management, Pat Riley in particular, has done a helluva job this summer! Regardless what happens over the next seven seasons in Miami, why would you blame the coaching staff or players for not obtaining the franchise goals? Players play and coaches coach, after seven seasons can you really blame either of them? HINT: LeBron left because he wants to win multiple championships.

None-the-less you’re not entertaining my questions. Instead, you keep repeating yourself….

…not the Cavs management


…not on management.


…that doesn't mean blame the management.

How is not winning a championship on management's shoulders?


…only that management is not [the blame].



I don't think Cleveland's management has failed…



...followed by random points that prevents us from exploring the many variables and circumstances involved with Cleveland’s inability to secure a championship during the last seven seasons. Don’t get me wrong, I like fore-play as much as the next virile guy but there comes a moment when you realize either you’re going to do the dew or you’re not. And since obviously we’re not, let’s end it here and change the topic of 'who's to blame', fair enough?

[Mr. Focus]

Wednesday's CBSSports.com report said Paul saw what his friend LeBron James did in signing to play alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh with the Miami Heat, and has designs on doing something similar. "He wants out," the person with knowledge of Paul's plans told CBSSports.com. "He wants to play with another superstar."

The New York Knicks, Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers are on Paul's list of preferred destinations, sources told CBSSports.com. The sources said members of Paul's "inner circle" have told the Hornets the guard wants out in part because "he feels like 'THEY' haven't put the right pieces together." Do you see a pattern zx670?



They aren't even similar, dude. The Hornets have won over 50 games only once in the past 10 years. They won only 37 last season. Paul has a legitimate beef there, unlike LeBron IF that is even the reason he is attributing to his leaving the Cavs.

OMG! You're friggin' kidding, right? How did you miss that one? CBSSports.com clearly said, "...Paul saw what his friend LeBron James did in signing to play alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh with the Miami Heat, and has designs on doing something 'SIMILAR'."

Followed by, "He wants out... He wants to play with another superstar... he feels like 'THEY' haven't put the right pieces together."

You should read more carefully

We're in total agreement here sport! LOL

[Mr. Focus]

Zexy?!? Don't disappear on me SPORT! You stay in this thread and talk to me like a man, ya hear? Zexy???

[G.I.Spawn]

Its definitely the org. fault. Or maybe Delonte West's, for sleeping with Lebrons mom.

[G.I.Spawn]

Now the only prob with the Magic picking up Paul, is who are they going to give up. I say Bass, Anthony Johnson, Pietrus or Reddick. Maybe a draft pick. I don't want Pietrus or reddick to go, but who else would they trade?

[arashikage tat]

Just read that Matt Barnes looks like he's inking a two year deal with the Lakers tonight instead of Miami or the Cavs...I'm really liking our squad this upcoming year

[G.I.Spawn]

Theres no doubt that the Magic will be better with Paul. But if the Magic are gonna beat the Heat, they need Carter or Reddick to take the ball up the court more. IMO. I didn't think Barnes was a good fit anyways. His d was the only thing that was great. Same thing with Brandon Bass

[Mr. Focus]

Its definitely the org. fault. Or maybe Delonte West's, for sleeping with Lebrons mom.

You already know my stance! The affair between LeBron's mom (42) and West (26) is pretty sad. I read somewhere that LeBron's mom had also slept with LeBron's agent's brother, of which lead to that agent being fired. You'd think LeBron's mom would be a bit discreet about her indiscretions especially when taking into account LeBron's reputation. Eh well, money just makes you more of who you are!

Now the only prob with the Magic picking up Paul, is who are they going to give up. I say Bass, Anthony Johnson, Pietrus or Reddick. Maybe a draft pick. I don't want Pietrus or reddick to go, but who else would they trade?



If Orlando doesn't make it to the 2011 NBA Finals then they should fire Stan, and trade Richardson, Carter and Nelson in an attempt to get Chris Paul and Carmelo (free agent in 2011)!

Just imagine...
C- Dwight Howard
PF- Rashard Lewis
SF- Carmelo Anthony
SG- J.J. Redick/Pietrus
PG- Chris Paul

I'm getting all excited just thinking about it! If that happens I'd probably buy a winter home in Florida and season tickets to both Heat and Magic. Hmm... a location off the beach or somewhere in the middle of both stadiums? ARGHHH, that's a toughfy!

They should trade Q. Richardson and J. Nelson for Chris Paul. Orlando better move quick because Paul is leaning towards the Knicks.

[Mr. Focus]

Just read that Matt Barnes looks like he's inking a two year deal with the Lakers tonight instead of Miami or the Cavs...I'm really liking our squad this upcoming year

LA is also looking at adding Theo Ratliff. I'm not sure if that's good or bad but I agree, LA has made some good decisions thus far!

Theres no doubt that the Magic will be better with Paul. But if the Magic are gonna beat the Heat, they need Carter or Reddick to take the ball up the court more. IMO. I didn't think Barnes was a good fit anyways. His d was the only thing that was great. Same thing with Brandon Bass

Better with Paul now and great with Carmelo next year!?! Barnes was the only player playing good perimeter defense. That's why he started and that'll be the reason he'll be missed. Orlando is an offensive juggernaut that has suffered in overall defense. The lost of Barnes will now leave the Magic vulnerable at the 2 & 3 spot.

[tuan_tran73]

When you can not beat them, join them. So what is the competition here.

[Mr. Focus]

Miami Heat 2010-2011 roster (updated)
-------------------------------------

Starters:
C-Zydrunas Ilgauskas
PF-Chris Bosh
SF-LeBron James
SG-Dwayne Wade
PG-Carlos Arroyo

Reserves:
6.) Mike Miller
7.) Mario Chalmers
8.) Udonis Haslem
9.) Joey Anthony
10.) Dexter Pittman
11.) Jamaal Magloire
12.) Juwan Howard
13.) James Jones

Rumors:
Jason Williams
Keyon Dooling
Chris Quinn
Jerry Stackhouse

[arashikage tat]

LA is also looking at adding Theo Ratliff. I'm not sure if that's good or bad but I agree, LA has made some good decisions thus far!


Yeah I'm not sure about Theo either...the way I see it all he can do is help, I mean we have a formidable front line with Bynum, Gasol and Odom...so he really can't hurt much! Plus he's a hell of a shot blocker and we definitely need that

[Darth Cantu]

Wow, looks like the Miami Heat's first game of the season might be against Cleveland at The "Q". What a way to start the season with a BOOOOOOOOO! fest at Cleveland:)

[arashikage tat]

Wow, looks like the Miami Heat's first game of the season might be against Cleveland at The "Q". What a way to start the season with a BOOOOOOOOO! fest at Cleveland:)


I thought it was gonna be against the C's in Beantown?

[commandwolf]

According to the Boston Globe, the first game for the Miami Heat will indeed be against the Boston Celtics. Clash of the Titans anyone?

[arashikage tat]

According to the Boston Globe, the first game for the Miami Heat will indeed be against the Boston Celtics. Clash of the Titans anyone?


I can't wait for that!!! First game of the season is gonna be awesome

[The Conflict]

Outside of Shaq going to the Celtics is there any other nba news? Any word on Chris Paul yet?

[arashikage tat]

FHP: Haslem cited after Miami-Dade traffic stop - NBA News - FOX Sports on MSN (http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/AP-Haslem-cited-after-Miami-Dade-traffic-stop-081510)

Miami is gonna kick off this season right haha

[arashikage tat]

Just wanted to see if anyone has caught any of the Heats pre season games and what you thought. I think injuries (even though minor) aren't a good sign so far

[nightforceoutback11]

.......

[Monkeywrench]

it's great that there struggling. Go Kobe!!

[Mr. Focus]

The Heat started the season 9-8 but are now 32-7 of the last 39 games played. With the exeception of Miami's struggles against the Celtics, I think the Heat are living up to expectations with their best yet to be shown!

[Dawg99]

Heat are on Fire..

[arashikage tat]

As much as I don't like the Heat...I have to admit that full court alley oop from Wade to James was pretty damn sick!

[Mainframe]

I will admit it's been nice watching the Celtics own the Heat, and watching it LIVE at that. And I am looking forward to photoshopping the above photo come finals time.

[arashikage tat]

I will admit it's been nice watching the Celtics own the Heat, and watching it LIVE at that. And I am looking forward to photoshopping the above photo come finals time.

With all due respect bro....u thought the same thing last year! :)

[Mainframe]

With all due respect bro....u thought the same thing last year! :)
YEP, and I think the same thing this year. One might be able to post that same Banner with a Perkins DNP for game 7 also.....

[arashikage tat]

YEP, and I think the same thing this year. One might be able to post that same Banner with a Perkins DNP for game 7 also.....


True, but Bynum was out that whole series in 08' where as Perk just missed game 7. Granted game 7 is for all the marbles and that does suck, but unfortunately that's how it went. Oh and Bynum was playing with a torn meniscus since the first round and was pretty much a non factor by the time the finals rolled around.

Honestly I don't see the C's winning it this year and if I am being totally honest I don't know that I see my Lakers taking it either...unless they make a semi-significant move before the trade deadline! As much as I hate to say it, I think San Antonio is playing almost flawless basketball and seems like they are on a mission and not to be denied!

[Mainframe]

Guess that whole "we need Perk thing" is out the door now....
Honestly, I've never been a fan of the guy. He's a big body,that's all. Here's to hoping that Troy Murphy comes to town.

[arashikage tat]

Guess that whole "we need Perk thing" is out the door now....
Honestly, I've never been a fan of the guy. He's a big body,that's all. Here's to hoping that Troy Murphy comes to town.


lol...yeah I thought the same thing when I heard about the trade and since the Lakers didn't make a move, here's to hoping Jason Kapono comes to town for us :)

[Mainframe]

Danny can't be done yet, you don't trade 3 centers for Jeff Green(whic was a good trade) and severly jeopardize your weakest spot already. This was done for cap room clearence, at worst they'll fill with Leon Powe. New Jersey/Brooklyn might be pretty darn good one of these days. I liked Felton in NY, too bad they pulled the trigger, they were fun to watch.

[Mainframe]

Ahhh, welcome Troy Murphy. And to be honsest, Kristic has looked better than half decent so far. Good enough for me to purchase a strip of playoff tickets. Here's to hoping the Lakers come back to Boston, I want home court advantage.

[Monkeywrench]

this can't be said enough: Fuck Lebron

[arashikage tat]

this can't be said enough: Fuck Lebron



hell yeah my man!!!!

[Mainframe]

I love this, Miami shows that a team is only as good as it's best players, and it hows that the Heat's and the NBA's "Best" isn't that good. The heat can't beat the good teams.

[arashikage tat]

I love it....I love it....I love it

The Heat lost again to Chicago and that's now 4 L's in a row

[Mainframe]

The worst part is listeninig to D Wade, and I Quote "The World is happy now, the Heat are losing games". Well yes, but who the hell is he to say that? The world is happy because it's tax return time, and it's their own fault that Lebron missed his game winner and D-Wade missed a open shot at the end. And it's the media that's "following them to closely". What a bunch or sorry little bitches.Lots of tinks in that armor
Kristic had 17 last night by the way, glad the Lakers were able to beat the Spurs, still need to taste purple and gold! Duncan looks like he's aging a bit.

[arashikage tat]

I think I've asked this on here before, but am I the only one who thinks Chris Bosh looks like one of his parents was a dinosaur?

[Dawg99]

I think I've asked this on here before, but am I the only one who thinks Chris Bosh looks like one of his parents was a dinosaur?

he reminds me of the blue guys from Avatar

[boff123]

they just beat the lakers. guess all the freaking out was for not.

[Dawg99]

they just beat the lakers. guess all the freaking out was for not.

that's awesome