Bench Points

Playoff Thoughts

Now that the NBA playoff seedings have almost solidified, there is one question I've seen asked more than any other.

What will be the big first round upset?

Well, for my part I think the Los Angeles Lakers have the best chance against the Pheonix Suns (if that indeed will be the matchup), if only because the Suns lineup has been a little shaken up due to injury. While Steve Nash has overcome these setbacks to lead his team into the playoffs, the absence of inside play due to the injuries of Amare Stoudemire and Kurt Thomas leaves them with a serious offensive flaw.

The Lakers, on the other hand, do not live or die by Kobe Bryant as many people believe. Kobe will do what Kobe does no matter what his teammates do. Namely, put up an ungodly number of points by himself, but what will really decide the outcome IS what his teammates do!
Without solid defense from everyone on the squad, and offensive contributions by players NOT named Kobe Bryant, will be key to keep up with the Suns' "run the floor" offense.

Plus let's not forget who is coaching the Lakers, a man who has plenty of playoff experience, Phil Jackson.

"The Big Ticket's" Chances Of Punching That Ticket Out Of Minnesota

I'm tried of NBA writers and on-air analysts proclaiming that the "Kevin Garnett Sweepstakes" has begun.

If I had a felony charge for each time I've heard that I'd be...well I'd be the Portland Trailblazers.

I've heard Garnett talk about being upset about the Timberwolves not being able to get it done before and after the regular season many times, and well he's never requested a trade (that I know of). From what I can tell Garnett really would like to stay in Minnesota, and all he asks is that management gets him a little help.

To be honest though, there is always the possibility of him being moved, but the questions are really "when?" and "how?".

I've heard rumors of Stephon Marbury wanting to reunite with KG, but to be honest, that didn't work too well the last time and Marbury's ego wasn't even as large back then as it is now. Being a Timberwolves fan, I'd hate to see this happen, I fully believe that any team with Marbury on its roster is doomed (see New York Knicks).

Another tidbit I've heard about concerns everyone's favorite "one man team", Kobe Bryant. Bryant has in the past tried to woo Garnett to Los Angeles without much success, but with Kobe needing just a little help to make the Lakers a contender, and Phil Jackson being back on the bench, this might be the opportunity that KG would like to possibly get a ring.

Trade rumors About Allen Iverson? I'm Shocked!

See the beginning of the Garnett commentary, again an over-hyped situation that has happened a lot in the past.

Iverson isn't happy, Iverson hasn't been happy for awhile. The 76ers have tried to get him help, but to no avail as they are missing the playoffs this year.

About all I have to say about this is: Trade him. Let him go be happy somewhere else where he has the chance to be a winner, and use the trade to help restructure your team with some good, young talent.