Draft Review
Yes, I watched some of the NFL draft this past weekend. The fact they sped up the process kept me semi-interested. Some observations follow.
I would not take an offensive lineman with the first pick in the draft. He has to have an Anthony Munoz type career to be worth it in my book. I know, I know - the left tackle protects the quarterback’s blind side and is crucial in the running game. Still, I would take a guy who makes plays with the football, makes a ton of tackles or sacks the signal-caller on third down with that high a pick. That’s just my prerogative.
The Steelers continue to show why they have had the best player personnel department in the NFL for years. If you look at their 2008 draft, they got quality where they were sitting, filled needs and didn’t reach for players.
It’s amazing to see the Titans continue to hang their young quarterback (Vince Young) out to dry by not drafting a receiver early, or trading to acquire a disgruntled, Pro Bowl NFL receiver (see Johnson, Bolden, etc.).
No, I don’t see what all the “experts” see in Matt Ryan. Granted, I haven’t seen that much of him – I don’t sit in my parents’ basement and watch film in-between Star Trek episodes. However, I have seen enough to disagree with the Falcons making him the third pick overall. I surmise part of the reason the pick was made was to turn the page on the Vick Era in Georgia. That’s not why you go QB with that choice. I would have taken the big dude from LSU (Glenn Dorsey) to plug the interior.
The Browns had a solid draft without making any choices in day one based on filling two of their three D-line positions with quality veterans through trades. If their run defense improves dramatically this fall, one could argue the Browns had a great draft.
Again, in most cases, I would rather have a proven NFL talent than a 22 year old fresh out of college with "potential." I guess I am a George Allen disciple.
Cavaliers In Control
I am happy to note the Cavaliers are making me look bad by being up 3-1 with a chance to close it out at home tonight against the mouthy Bullets - yes the Bullets. I picked Washington to advance, as you know, based mainly on how the Cavaliers were playing heading into the post-season. I am not a homer – meaning I make choices based on what I see, not what I feel. Regardless, I will be very happy to be wrong on this one. Here’s hoping the Cavaliers have a killer’s instinct and close it out in five this evening.
Why are they ahead? – simple, LJ is playing well, as expected, he is getting enough help from his friends, the Wizards don’t defend and have had a difficult time finding the right chemistry with Arenas returning to the line-up.
KISS
You have heard me numerous times talk about “keeping it simple stupid” when it comes to sports. There is no better example of this than watching an NBA playoff game. Notice what many teams run offensively in crunch time over and over again – the simple, old-fashioned pick and roll.
The Natural
I have said it before, but it is worth repeating - Victor Martinez has a great approach at the plate. He is never off balance and rarely has a bad at bat. When I watch the Tribe, I make sure to catch his at bats. Every young hitter should study this guy’s approach.
Travis
We have reached May and Travis Hafner is still not hitting. This team simply cannot afford another sub par year from him and expect to reach the post-season. That’s asking too much from this pitching staff to match last year’s efforts. He needs to turn it around very soon or the fans and media will turn on him soon - making for a potentially ugly summer for Hafner.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Cavs Up 2-0 & Primary In PA
Cavaliers Hold Serve
So far, after two games of the opening 2008 playoff series, the Cavaliers have been able to disprove the adage that you can’t “turn it on and off.” Or perhaps Washington hasn’t shown up yet. We will know more by the end of the week. Remember, the series doesn’t really start until BOTH teams play at home.
It was good to see Wally and Gibson knock down shots in game #2 however. That’s a good sign. Then again, as we have said many times, role players tend to play a lot better at home. If James gets that kind of help in DC, the Cavaliers will most certainly steal one on the road this week.
It is a very simple game when watching the Cavaliers play – James will get his and get his teammates wide open looks time and time again. When they defend as a unit and make some open shots, the Cavaliers win, when they don’t, James has to done the cape and try to win it all by himself – which occasionally happens (see Cavs-Pistons, game #5, 2007).
Gilbert
Arenas doesn’t look close to 100%. Even in game #1 when he went off, the large majority of his points came on jumpers. He isn’t changing directions or exploding to the basket yet. That likely won’t come until next fall. Plus, with him (Arenas)in the line-up, there's a lot of standing around and watching for the other Wizards (aka: Cavs & 23). It doesn't seem the Wizards have adjusted to Arenas being back yet. When he's making shots, that's great, when he's not, that's bad. Chemistry is a funny thing.
Hard Fouls
Back when, you could almost commit assault and battery and the referees would not call a flagrant foul come playoff time. Then “Michael” started winning titles and the league realized they had to keep him upright and on the floor or the playoff ratings would suffer severely. The league can't have any of that.
We expect the same to take place for 23. The difference is, being a "freak of nature” he (LJ) is a lot stronger than the original 23 and can absorb more punishment based on his frame. Regardless, I expect LJ to spend a lot of time at the line in this series – especially at home. It would be nice if he made most of them. His poor free throw shooting performance in game #2 was overshadowed by the 30point win. That could hurt down the road (see Memphis).
Margin Insignificant
A reminder - you don't get any bonus points for margin of victory.
More Joe
By the way, we would like to see more of Joe Smith on the floor. As we said when the trade took place - Smith is a pro's pro. He does everything relatively well and should be a real asset, especially at this time of year. He gives you one thing most Cavs don't - consistent play.
PA Primary
It is shameful watching some political pundits on the cable networks (MSNBC especially) openly root for Barack Obama in PA. We expect they will be disappointed and upset after Clinton hammers him today. We like Hillary to pound him by double-figures – contrary to many wishful predictions that Obama has closed the gap and it will be close.
Another solid Clinton win today in a must-state for the democrats in the fall will bolster the Clinton argument that he is “unelectable” in the fall. The democrats realistically need to win two of the following three state to win the election in November – Florida, Ohio & Pennsylvania. At this point, he (Obama) looks as though he could lose all three to John McCain. That’s her campaign’s main argument – and it holds water.
Here is the other factor no one is raising because it has racial overtones – Obama’s electoral and total vote lead over Clinton in the primaries has been forged by beating her soundly in the south, where a heavy African-American voting block exists and has carried him to victory.
In the general election, ALL the southern states in recent history have gone republican. Where race helps him in the south in the primary, it hurts him in the south in the general election. That’s just an unfortunate fact.
That begs the question - where will his votes come from come November?
The answer – from the multitudes of young people who are turning out for the first time, from African-American (who vote 90% democratic anyway), and from wealthy white liberals (there aren’t enough of them to make a significant difference in the general election).
The Clintons will likely be proven right in the fall. Meanwhile, it has to be discouraging for Hillary and Bill, who see what’s ahead but won’t be able to mathematically overtake him in the primaries.
Remember for those of you who are political novices (don't follow this stuff like I do), everything is aligned for a democratic win this fall. The war is unpopular, the economy is in trouble (sub-prime mortgage debacle), gas is closing in on $4 a gallon and democrats are energized and turning out in record numbers at the polls.
The democratic candidate SHOULD win in a LANDSLIDE.
However, the primary knock-down drag-out between Clinton and Obama has damaged both of them severely, and the fact that both candidates are battered & flawed should make it very competitive in November.
We still like McCain to win, but the wild card will be the number of new (young) voters Obama actually turns out. That is the one factor that gives him a fighting chance – even with all the baggage going in. Traditionally, young people disappoint democrats and don’t show up in large numbers at the polls. Obama is charismatic. He will turn out record numbers of African-Americans (13% of the overall population of the U.S.).
Can he also turn out enough young people (new voters) to beat McCain?
So far, after two games of the opening 2008 playoff series, the Cavaliers have been able to disprove the adage that you can’t “turn it on and off.” Or perhaps Washington hasn’t shown up yet. We will know more by the end of the week. Remember, the series doesn’t really start until BOTH teams play at home.
It was good to see Wally and Gibson knock down shots in game #2 however. That’s a good sign. Then again, as we have said many times, role players tend to play a lot better at home. If James gets that kind of help in DC, the Cavaliers will most certainly steal one on the road this week.
It is a very simple game when watching the Cavaliers play – James will get his and get his teammates wide open looks time and time again. When they defend as a unit and make some open shots, the Cavaliers win, when they don’t, James has to done the cape and try to win it all by himself – which occasionally happens (see Cavs-Pistons, game #5, 2007).
Gilbert
Arenas doesn’t look close to 100%. Even in game #1 when he went off, the large majority of his points came on jumpers. He isn’t changing directions or exploding to the basket yet. That likely won’t come until next fall. Plus, with him (Arenas)in the line-up, there's a lot of standing around and watching for the other Wizards (aka: Cavs & 23). It doesn't seem the Wizards have adjusted to Arenas being back yet. When he's making shots, that's great, when he's not, that's bad. Chemistry is a funny thing.
Hard Fouls
Back when, you could almost commit assault and battery and the referees would not call a flagrant foul come playoff time. Then “Michael” started winning titles and the league realized they had to keep him upright and on the floor or the playoff ratings would suffer severely. The league can't have any of that.
We expect the same to take place for 23. The difference is, being a "freak of nature” he (LJ) is a lot stronger than the original 23 and can absorb more punishment based on his frame. Regardless, I expect LJ to spend a lot of time at the line in this series – especially at home. It would be nice if he made most of them. His poor free throw shooting performance in game #2 was overshadowed by the 30point win. That could hurt down the road (see Memphis).
Margin Insignificant
A reminder - you don't get any bonus points for margin of victory.
More Joe
By the way, we would like to see more of Joe Smith on the floor. As we said when the trade took place - Smith is a pro's pro. He does everything relatively well and should be a real asset, especially at this time of year. He gives you one thing most Cavs don't - consistent play.
PA Primary
It is shameful watching some political pundits on the cable networks (MSNBC especially) openly root for Barack Obama in PA. We expect they will be disappointed and upset after Clinton hammers him today. We like Hillary to pound him by double-figures – contrary to many wishful predictions that Obama has closed the gap and it will be close.
Another solid Clinton win today in a must-state for the democrats in the fall will bolster the Clinton argument that he is “unelectable” in the fall. The democrats realistically need to win two of the following three state to win the election in November – Florida, Ohio & Pennsylvania. At this point, he (Obama) looks as though he could lose all three to John McCain. That’s her campaign’s main argument – and it holds water.
Here is the other factor no one is raising because it has racial overtones – Obama’s electoral and total vote lead over Clinton in the primaries has been forged by beating her soundly in the south, where a heavy African-American voting block exists and has carried him to victory.
In the general election, ALL the southern states in recent history have gone republican. Where race helps him in the south in the primary, it hurts him in the south in the general election. That’s just an unfortunate fact.
That begs the question - where will his votes come from come November?
The answer – from the multitudes of young people who are turning out for the first time, from African-American (who vote 90% democratic anyway), and from wealthy white liberals (there aren’t enough of them to make a significant difference in the general election).
The Clintons will likely be proven right in the fall. Meanwhile, it has to be discouraging for Hillary and Bill, who see what’s ahead but won’t be able to mathematically overtake him in the primaries.
Remember for those of you who are political novices (don't follow this stuff like I do), everything is aligned for a democratic win this fall. The war is unpopular, the economy is in trouble (sub-prime mortgage debacle), gas is closing in on $4 a gallon and democrats are energized and turning out in record numbers at the polls.
The democratic candidate SHOULD win in a LANDSLIDE.
However, the primary knock-down drag-out between Clinton and Obama has damaged both of them severely, and the fact that both candidates are battered & flawed should make it very competitive in November.
We still like McCain to win, but the wild card will be the number of new (young) voters Obama actually turns out. That is the one factor that gives him a fighting chance – even with all the baggage going in. Traditionally, young people disappoint democrats and don’t show up in large numbers at the polls. Obama is charismatic. He will turn out record numbers of African-Americans (13% of the overall population of the U.S.).
Can he also turn out enough young people (new voters) to beat McCain?
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Hits & Misses Pre-NBA Playoffs
NBA Playoffs
Before the season started, we had the Celtics and Spurs meeting in the Finals with the Spurs winning the title. We see no reason to change that prediction.
Detroit seems like the only team capable of coming out of the East besides the revamped Celtics, but we like Garnett and company to edge the Pistons in the conference finals. One can make a viable argument for all eight teams possibly coming out of the West, however, if healthy, we still like the experience of the defending champs.
As for the Cavaliers, my heart says 23 will carry them to the second round, but my head says the Wizards will take this series. All the variables point to a Cavalier first round exit – James is not 100%, they aren’t guarding anyone, the team has not meshed since the trade, once again no one can realistically be depended on every night to play well besides James, the Wizards have payback on their mind, and finally, after James, the next three best players in the series all wear Washington uniforms (Arenas, Jamison, Butler). A reminder - I have been wrong before.
I know, I know. I’m the same guy who said a few months ago James would take his team deeper into the '08 playoffs than Kobe. I am still not sold on the Lakers, but I have seen enough of the Cavaliers to think they just don’t have what it takes to make a deep playoff run in ‘08. On this one, I have to go with Spygate's mastermind, who infamously said when coaching the Browns in the early/mid 90s – “I can only go by what I see.”
You Never Know
If I told you the Tribe would have a starter sitting at 3-0 in mid-April, you would have rattled off several potential names and never mentioned Cliff Lee. I saw Lee pitch for the first time last night in the win over the Twins. He’s throwing more fastballs, throwing strikes and just as important, throwing inside. That’s something CC should be doing and hasn't this spring. If you don’t establish the inside part of the plate, hitters at this level will make you pay even if you have great stuff. When CC starts brushing people back and occasionally hitting a few batters, the quality starts will return as well.
NFL Draft
There they go again. I was flipping channels yesterday and happened to catch one of many upcoming NFL draft specials on ESPN. Several of the talking heads referred to Boston College’s quarterback (Ryan) as a “franchise” player. One even compared his skill-set to P. Manning and T. Brady. NICE!!!
This dialogue reminded me of why I don’t like such programs. One of my sports 10 commandments states - “Never use the term “franchise player" when describing someone who hasn’t achieved anything. Such status should be reserved for those who have achieved such status (i.e. Hall of Fame caliber).
For example, as you are aware, I am a huge Brady Q. fan and believe he will be one of the league’s five best signal-callers within two to three years of starting. Yet, I have never referred to him as a “franchise quarterback.” First, I may be wrong, and second, that term denigrates those who have already earned the label.
For those who care (DB), the little I saw of DI football this year, I came away with the impression that there isn’t one QB I would take with a top-10 pick in this draft. That's right - no "franchise" QBs in this group.
Annoying Reminder
Yes, I still want Barry Bonds in the middle of the Tribe line-up and Pac Man covering the Browns opponents' #1 receiving threat this fall. Both are STILL available and would come cheap. At this point, Pac Man carries more baggage than Bonds, who has had his legal issues with the Feds pushed back. It's a business, remember?
Think about it, who would you rather get with a fourth round pick next week - some defensive tackle from Fresno State you never heard of, or a true, quality cover corner not seen in Cleveland since Dixon/Minnifield? Secondly, where else can you get a HOF middle-of-the-order bat immediately?
Coming soon - the 10 commandments.
Before the season started, we had the Celtics and Spurs meeting in the Finals with the Spurs winning the title. We see no reason to change that prediction.
Detroit seems like the only team capable of coming out of the East besides the revamped Celtics, but we like Garnett and company to edge the Pistons in the conference finals. One can make a viable argument for all eight teams possibly coming out of the West, however, if healthy, we still like the experience of the defending champs.
As for the Cavaliers, my heart says 23 will carry them to the second round, but my head says the Wizards will take this series. All the variables point to a Cavalier first round exit – James is not 100%, they aren’t guarding anyone, the team has not meshed since the trade, once again no one can realistically be depended on every night to play well besides James, the Wizards have payback on their mind, and finally, after James, the next three best players in the series all wear Washington uniforms (Arenas, Jamison, Butler). A reminder - I have been wrong before.
I know, I know. I’m the same guy who said a few months ago James would take his team deeper into the '08 playoffs than Kobe. I am still not sold on the Lakers, but I have seen enough of the Cavaliers to think they just don’t have what it takes to make a deep playoff run in ‘08. On this one, I have to go with Spygate's mastermind, who infamously said when coaching the Browns in the early/mid 90s – “I can only go by what I see.”
You Never Know
If I told you the Tribe would have a starter sitting at 3-0 in mid-April, you would have rattled off several potential names and never mentioned Cliff Lee. I saw Lee pitch for the first time last night in the win over the Twins. He’s throwing more fastballs, throwing strikes and just as important, throwing inside. That’s something CC should be doing and hasn't this spring. If you don’t establish the inside part of the plate, hitters at this level will make you pay even if you have great stuff. When CC starts brushing people back and occasionally hitting a few batters, the quality starts will return as well.
NFL Draft
There they go again. I was flipping channels yesterday and happened to catch one of many upcoming NFL draft specials on ESPN. Several of the talking heads referred to Boston College’s quarterback (Ryan) as a “franchise” player. One even compared his skill-set to P. Manning and T. Brady. NICE!!!
This dialogue reminded me of why I don’t like such programs. One of my sports 10 commandments states - “Never use the term “franchise player" when describing someone who hasn’t achieved anything. Such status should be reserved for those who have achieved such status (i.e. Hall of Fame caliber).
For example, as you are aware, I am a huge Brady Q. fan and believe he will be one of the league’s five best signal-callers within two to three years of starting. Yet, I have never referred to him as a “franchise quarterback.” First, I may be wrong, and second, that term denigrates those who have already earned the label.
For those who care (DB), the little I saw of DI football this year, I came away with the impression that there isn’t one QB I would take with a top-10 pick in this draft. That's right - no "franchise" QBs in this group.
Annoying Reminder
Yes, I still want Barry Bonds in the middle of the Tribe line-up and Pac Man covering the Browns opponents' #1 receiving threat this fall. Both are STILL available and would come cheap. At this point, Pac Man carries more baggage than Bonds, who has had his legal issues with the Feds pushed back. It's a business, remember?
Think about it, who would you rather get with a fourth round pick next week - some defensive tackle from Fresno State you never heard of, or a true, quality cover corner not seen in Cleveland since Dixon/Minnifield? Secondly, where else can you get a HOF middle-of-the-order bat immediately?
Coming soon - the 10 commandments.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Mid-April Random Thoughts
I simply did not have anything of note to say last week.
Cavs Limping Into Post-Season
I just watched the Cavaliers struggle to earn a home win over the lowly & injury-riddled Miami Heat, bringing their magic number to one in an attempt to clinch home-court in round #1 of the playoffs.
The way they have played down the stretch, it won’t matter where the Cavaliers play that final game. It won't get that far. The Cavaliers look slow defensively and out of sync offensively. We know they have had injuries, but excuses will get you one and done in the post-season.
The good news is their potential first round opponent, the Washington Wizards, have been busy trash-talking and requesting another post-season date with Cleveland. The Cavaliers have remained above it all – probably because they have been too busy struggling to get it together since the 11-player deal back in February.
Perhaps the Wizards will do with their collective mouth, what Head Coach Mike Brown and his staff have been unable to do with practices and game-day clipboards – motivate the Cavaliers to play well at both ends for an extended stretch of time.
Last year, the Cavaliers were the beneficiary of a soft post-season schedule and a coaching gaffe for the ages - (see Flip Saunders) allowing LJ to score 29 of his team’s final 30 points in pivotal game #5 versus the Pistons.
This time around, the Cavaliers limp into the playoffs unsure of even who to play, when and how much. While other playoff teams have spent the past few weeks shrinking down their rotation for post-season, the Cavaliers have yet to find one that works.
Last spring, Andy V. and Boobie Gibson played well throughout the playoffs. LJ will need their help and much more if we can expect to see pro basketball in northeast Ohio well into May.
Questions abound for the locals:
Will Ben’s back hold up so he can do what he was brought to town to do – defend the post in the playoffs?
Does Wally have anything left in the tank?
Can anyone in the backcourt PLEASE stop guard penetration?
Has anyone seen Shasha this year?
And there are more problems on the horizon. This year, the competition is stronger (i.e. Boston) and some of the teams in the way have a score to settle with the Cavaliers (see Wizards & Pistons).
With two games remaining in the regular season, it doesn’t look good for the locals. However, don’t forget – they do have 23. If healthy, he will get his and consistently get his teammates open looks in the playoffs. And if they can stay close late, he will close more often than not.
LJ just might have to average a triple-double in the playoffs for the Cavaliers to advance.
That's okay, he's used to having a load on his back this time of year. Why do you think it hurts so much?
So Much For Spring Training Numbers
Much was made of the Tribe’s rotation success in spring training. Everyone go their work in and dominated in the process. A lot of good that did!
The Indians have gotten out of the gate slowly – to put it kindly. It’s early, so there is no reason to panic. The beauty of baseball is in its “marathon” nature. Over the course of 162 games, talent reaches its expected level. That should be the case with the Tribe.
The start isn’t pretty, but it could be worse. You could be a Tigers’ fan right now looking at that $130+ million payroll that is suspect in pitching and scratching your head.
Third Time Is the Charm
MLB and the players' union have agreed on another drug testing policy. I think this is the third try in the past two years. Let me get this right – the new deal includes amnesty for past violators (see Mitchell Report), no outside agency placed in charge of the testing as was recommended, no revealing when someone flunks a test unless it reaches the suspension stage and no human growth hormone testing. Nice!!! Somehow, I doubt Congress, or anyone else will buy it.
Browns & Corners
I strongly suggest the Cleveland Browns acquire a quality cornerback or two before September rolls around. They traded their best cover corner (LB) and another one (Wright) is in trouble with the MAN (aka police). That’s never good.
As of now, the Browns seem to be better prepared to stop your first and 10 carry off tackle than cover WRs on third and five.
Memphis vs. Kansas
I know what coach Calipari was trying to do by stating over and over again that free throw shooting wasn’t that important. He was playing amateur psychologist – letting his kids think the coach isn’t worried about it, so they (players) should not be.
It didn’t work out too well however.
Memphis blew a nine point lead with just over two minutes MAINLY BECAUSE they missed four of five charity tosses down the stretch. It isn’t any more complicated than that.
It wasn’t because their post player fouled out. It wasn’t because Memphis had to play its starters huge minutes which led to fatigue in OT. It wasn’t because a great shot sent it to overtime. And it wasn’t because Kansas earned it by making all the plays.
As Calipari put it, “a perfect storm” happened that kept the Tigers from winning the title. His thesis was that everything that had to go wrong for his team to lose did go wrong.
I don’t buy it.
They (Memphis) shot 20% from the line in crunch time. That opened the door and Kansas walked through it. I felt badly for the Memphis kids who didn't knock down the charity tosses late. Those misses will be hard to forget.
The lesson - with all the great athleticism in basketball today at all levels, it still boils down to fundamentals – including making a standstill 15 footer with no one in the way.
Next time you watch a college or pro lay-up drill that turns into a dunk fest in pre-game, think about Memphis and how the time would be better spent knocking down those free-bees from 15 feet.
Funny thing is, we hear over and over again how players today are so "selfish."
Yet, a wise man once said "the only time a basketball player can be totally selfish is when he's at the line."
Irony can be cruel.
Cavs Limping Into Post-Season
I just watched the Cavaliers struggle to earn a home win over the lowly & injury-riddled Miami Heat, bringing their magic number to one in an attempt to clinch home-court in round #1 of the playoffs.
The way they have played down the stretch, it won’t matter where the Cavaliers play that final game. It won't get that far. The Cavaliers look slow defensively and out of sync offensively. We know they have had injuries, but excuses will get you one and done in the post-season.
The good news is their potential first round opponent, the Washington Wizards, have been busy trash-talking and requesting another post-season date with Cleveland. The Cavaliers have remained above it all – probably because they have been too busy struggling to get it together since the 11-player deal back in February.
Perhaps the Wizards will do with their collective mouth, what Head Coach Mike Brown and his staff have been unable to do with practices and game-day clipboards – motivate the Cavaliers to play well at both ends for an extended stretch of time.
Last year, the Cavaliers were the beneficiary of a soft post-season schedule and a coaching gaffe for the ages - (see Flip Saunders) allowing LJ to score 29 of his team’s final 30 points in pivotal game #5 versus the Pistons.
This time around, the Cavaliers limp into the playoffs unsure of even who to play, when and how much. While other playoff teams have spent the past few weeks shrinking down their rotation for post-season, the Cavaliers have yet to find one that works.
Last spring, Andy V. and Boobie Gibson played well throughout the playoffs. LJ will need their help and much more if we can expect to see pro basketball in northeast Ohio well into May.
Questions abound for the locals:
Will Ben’s back hold up so he can do what he was brought to town to do – defend the post in the playoffs?
Does Wally have anything left in the tank?
Can anyone in the backcourt PLEASE stop guard penetration?
Has anyone seen Shasha this year?
And there are more problems on the horizon. This year, the competition is stronger (i.e. Boston) and some of the teams in the way have a score to settle with the Cavaliers (see Wizards & Pistons).
With two games remaining in the regular season, it doesn’t look good for the locals. However, don’t forget – they do have 23. If healthy, he will get his and consistently get his teammates open looks in the playoffs. And if they can stay close late, he will close more often than not.
LJ just might have to average a triple-double in the playoffs for the Cavaliers to advance.
That's okay, he's used to having a load on his back this time of year. Why do you think it hurts so much?
So Much For Spring Training Numbers
Much was made of the Tribe’s rotation success in spring training. Everyone go their work in and dominated in the process. A lot of good that did!
The Indians have gotten out of the gate slowly – to put it kindly. It’s early, so there is no reason to panic. The beauty of baseball is in its “marathon” nature. Over the course of 162 games, talent reaches its expected level. That should be the case with the Tribe.
The start isn’t pretty, but it could be worse. You could be a Tigers’ fan right now looking at that $130+ million payroll that is suspect in pitching and scratching your head.
Third Time Is the Charm
MLB and the players' union have agreed on another drug testing policy. I think this is the third try in the past two years. Let me get this right – the new deal includes amnesty for past violators (see Mitchell Report), no outside agency placed in charge of the testing as was recommended, no revealing when someone flunks a test unless it reaches the suspension stage and no human growth hormone testing. Nice!!! Somehow, I doubt Congress, or anyone else will buy it.
Browns & Corners
I strongly suggest the Cleveland Browns acquire a quality cornerback or two before September rolls around. They traded their best cover corner (LB) and another one (Wright) is in trouble with the MAN (aka police). That’s never good.
As of now, the Browns seem to be better prepared to stop your first and 10 carry off tackle than cover WRs on third and five.
Memphis vs. Kansas
I know what coach Calipari was trying to do by stating over and over again that free throw shooting wasn’t that important. He was playing amateur psychologist – letting his kids think the coach isn’t worried about it, so they (players) should not be.
It didn’t work out too well however.
Memphis blew a nine point lead with just over two minutes MAINLY BECAUSE they missed four of five charity tosses down the stretch. It isn’t any more complicated than that.
It wasn’t because their post player fouled out. It wasn’t because Memphis had to play its starters huge minutes which led to fatigue in OT. It wasn’t because a great shot sent it to overtime. And it wasn’t because Kansas earned it by making all the plays.
As Calipari put it, “a perfect storm” happened that kept the Tigers from winning the title. His thesis was that everything that had to go wrong for his team to lose did go wrong.
I don’t buy it.
They (Memphis) shot 20% from the line in crunch time. That opened the door and Kansas walked through it. I felt badly for the Memphis kids who didn't knock down the charity tosses late. Those misses will be hard to forget.
The lesson - with all the great athleticism in basketball today at all levels, it still boils down to fundamentals – including making a standstill 15 footer with no one in the way.
Next time you watch a college or pro lay-up drill that turns into a dunk fest in pre-game, think about Memphis and how the time would be better spent knocking down those free-bees from 15 feet.
Funny thing is, we hear over and over again how players today are so "selfish."
Yet, a wise man once said "the only time a basketball player can be totally selfish is when he's at the line."
Irony can be cruel.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Bowling A 37
Barack Obama went bowling today in PA hunting for votes. Reportedly, he bowled seven frames and totaled a 37. That’s right – a 37!
Game, set, match – the election is now officially over – or at least it should be. I mean how does a grown man living in the USA with the sense of sight bowl a 37?
I don’t care if you have never picked up a bowling ball in our life, you can’t bowl a 37 in seven frames – not now, not ever, and expect other men to have any sense of respect for you.
And here’s a public relations question for his handlers – for heaven’s sake, why didn’t you stop him from embarrassing himself once it was obvious he had the coordination of a giraffe?
Wasn’t it obvious to these PR wizards every time he rolled the ball, he was losing more votes? Someone should have stepped up and stopped him. But no one did. Maybe that’s because he was surrounded by other gutter ball candidates. Perhaps they thought it couldn’t get any worse. I just don't understand it.
The more likely scenario is everyone in the Obama camp was stunned by his ineptness and simply failed to move. Besides, he wasn’t going to get the PA bowling alley crowd to vote for him anyway, right?
Again, that’s not the point.
How can potentially the most powerful person on the planet total 37 in seven frames? You see, many Americans won’t be able to wrap their minds around that one. Therefore, they won’t – or more importantly, shouldn’t vote for Obama.
It has nothing to do with his stance on issues. It has no relationship to his judgment. It has no bearing on his personality or even love of country. It has everything to do with the stars being aligned correctly and all being right with the world.
In other words - no male ever claims pink is his favorite color, if you get beamed by a baseball, you never rub it and we pee standing up.
Men will not vote for a guy who couldn’t beat his 10 year old niece at your neighborhood lanes. Period. You understand, don’t you? And if you don’t, stop reading - you don’t get it and never will.
Now the good news for the Obama camp - the mainstream media loves this guy. It has a little bit to do with white guilt and a lot to do with an excellent, young, orator peaking their collective interest. Therefore, most outlets will bury the tape. In fact, me being a cable news hound, I could only find a quick five second clip on one network that can only be described as follows - an uncoordinated approach to the lane that quickly turned into a gutter ball (wide right alla Scott Norwood) nearly immediately post release.
Only one network carried it tonight. I wonder why?
In fact, after the ugly tape ran, one of the talking heads hosting the program went off script (see: did not read from the teleprompter) and actually added the following trying to cover for the poor guy - “We have heard he’s actually an excellent basketball player.”
Right! I’m sure most “excellent” basketball players have a tough time reaching that magic number of 37 after rolling, what, 14 bowling balls down an alley.
The problem for Obama and company is the inevitability that this footage will find its way on Youtube. If you are a Hillary Clinton operative or you work for the John McCain camp, forget about Reverend Wright. Just get this footage out to the public ASAP. It speaks for itself. You won’t need anything else.
I’m hoping against hope the story has some holes. Maybe he had 37 after five frames, not seven. That would make me feel a little better in case he is elected president next November. I would sleep better at night thinking he could at least reach 100 on a good night if he went the distance.
Come to think of it – I don’t want to see Barack Obama anywhere near another bowling alley the rest of this campaign season. That five second view I had was horrifying enough. I may have trouble sleeping tonight thinking this guy may one day be the leader of the free world.
Too bad – I actually like him. He and I are about the same age and he seems like an intelligent dude.
I do have one piece of advice for his handlers if they some day all do heroine one night and decide to take him back to the scene of the crime – next time DEMAND BUMPERS! If my 10 year old daughter can get to the century mark with them (bumpers), a potential president should be able to do the same.
A bonus: I was about to sign off and just saw this clip on the local nightly sports wrap up - the president of some international car racing association just got picked up at a whore house with five hookers. It gets better. The girls were wearing nazi uniforms and beating him with whips while he was all tied up. And they have the video. NICE!
The story put a smile on my face. I hope it does the same for you.
By the way, the Indians are undefeated (1-0). Good for them. Yes, I watched some of it - innings eight & nine. And yes, I would have had Garko bunt - in case you were wondering with two on, no one out and the game tied in the bottom of the eighth. Blake, who was horrid in the clutch in 2007, got Wedge off the hook.
Till next week. Ciao.
Game, set, match – the election is now officially over – or at least it should be. I mean how does a grown man living in the USA with the sense of sight bowl a 37?
I don’t care if you have never picked up a bowling ball in our life, you can’t bowl a 37 in seven frames – not now, not ever, and expect other men to have any sense of respect for you.
And here’s a public relations question for his handlers – for heaven’s sake, why didn’t you stop him from embarrassing himself once it was obvious he had the coordination of a giraffe?
Wasn’t it obvious to these PR wizards every time he rolled the ball, he was losing more votes? Someone should have stepped up and stopped him. But no one did. Maybe that’s because he was surrounded by other gutter ball candidates. Perhaps they thought it couldn’t get any worse. I just don't understand it.
The more likely scenario is everyone in the Obama camp was stunned by his ineptness and simply failed to move. Besides, he wasn’t going to get the PA bowling alley crowd to vote for him anyway, right?
Again, that’s not the point.
How can potentially the most powerful person on the planet total 37 in seven frames? You see, many Americans won’t be able to wrap their minds around that one. Therefore, they won’t – or more importantly, shouldn’t vote for Obama.
It has nothing to do with his stance on issues. It has no relationship to his judgment. It has no bearing on his personality or even love of country. It has everything to do with the stars being aligned correctly and all being right with the world.
In other words - no male ever claims pink is his favorite color, if you get beamed by a baseball, you never rub it and we pee standing up.
Men will not vote for a guy who couldn’t beat his 10 year old niece at your neighborhood lanes. Period. You understand, don’t you? And if you don’t, stop reading - you don’t get it and never will.
Now the good news for the Obama camp - the mainstream media loves this guy. It has a little bit to do with white guilt and a lot to do with an excellent, young, orator peaking their collective interest. Therefore, most outlets will bury the tape. In fact, me being a cable news hound, I could only find a quick five second clip on one network that can only be described as follows - an uncoordinated approach to the lane that quickly turned into a gutter ball (wide right alla Scott Norwood) nearly immediately post release.
Only one network carried it tonight. I wonder why?
In fact, after the ugly tape ran, one of the talking heads hosting the program went off script (see: did not read from the teleprompter) and actually added the following trying to cover for the poor guy - “We have heard he’s actually an excellent basketball player.”
Right! I’m sure most “excellent” basketball players have a tough time reaching that magic number of 37 after rolling, what, 14 bowling balls down an alley.
The problem for Obama and company is the inevitability that this footage will find its way on Youtube. If you are a Hillary Clinton operative or you work for the John McCain camp, forget about Reverend Wright. Just get this footage out to the public ASAP. It speaks for itself. You won’t need anything else.
I’m hoping against hope the story has some holes. Maybe he had 37 after five frames, not seven. That would make me feel a little better in case he is elected president next November. I would sleep better at night thinking he could at least reach 100 on a good night if he went the distance.
Come to think of it – I don’t want to see Barack Obama anywhere near another bowling alley the rest of this campaign season. That five second view I had was horrifying enough. I may have trouble sleeping tonight thinking this guy may one day be the leader of the free world.
Too bad – I actually like him. He and I are about the same age and he seems like an intelligent dude.
I do have one piece of advice for his handlers if they some day all do heroine one night and decide to take him back to the scene of the crime – next time DEMAND BUMPERS! If my 10 year old daughter can get to the century mark with them (bumpers), a potential president should be able to do the same.
A bonus: I was about to sign off and just saw this clip on the local nightly sports wrap up - the president of some international car racing association just got picked up at a whore house with five hookers. It gets better. The girls were wearing nazi uniforms and beating him with whips while he was all tied up. And they have the video. NICE!
The story put a smile on my face. I hope it does the same for you.
By the way, the Indians are undefeated (1-0). Good for them. Yes, I watched some of it - innings eight & nine. And yes, I would have had Garko bunt - in case you were wondering with two on, no one out and the game tied in the bottom of the eighth. Blake, who was horrid in the clutch in 2007, got Wedge off the hook.
Till next week. Ciao.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
March 23,'08 Random Thoughts
I took a week off – things needed done.
Cavaliers Lack D
The Cavaliers are starting to fall into a dangerous pattern of winning at home but falling badly on the road – even against sub-par teams. That means they aren’t defending every night. You can do that and win at home – especially when you have arguably the best closer in the game (23). But on the road, it's a different story.
They are having an especially difficult time stopping guard penetration. This was also the case when Larry Hughes wore a Cavs’ uniform, but it’s even more of a problem now. The Cavaliers will need to tighten up defensively if they want to do serious damage in the post-season. Not having Big Ben healthy also allows quality post players to feast on the Cavs inside.
I may be the only observer around who feels not having Eric Snow healthy hurts this team heading into the post-season. Snow would make it much more difficult for the opposing point guard to go where he pleases. Having Snow available, even for short spurts come post-season, would help the Cavaliers advance.
Andy & Ben
You can’t play both Andy V and Ben W at the same time on a consistent basis. We have stated that before. Neither player can score the basketball. It makes it too easy for teams to defend James and the other players on the floor. That's not to say both aren't important to the team's success however.
Mind you, the addition of Wallace is a good fit – as we stated at the time of the trade – because he is a perfect compliment to Z, who is the team’s best 15-foot face-up shooter.
Screen & Roll
This conversation all leads us to the pick and roll sets the Cavaliers run. I see no reason why the Cavaliers run screen and roll with James and either Ben or Andy. All it does is bring another body over to help defend James. Besides, neither Andy nor Ben can finish unless they are standing under the basket with no one around them.
It makes much more sense to involve Wally Z. or Joe Smith in those screen/roll situations with James. The reason why Z and James work well on screen/rolls is because Z has turned himself into an excellent perimeter shooter. The same amount of success – if not more – could occur if you involve Wally/Joe in pick and pop sets with 23.
This is the time to tinker so you know what will and won’t work come playoff time.
More Z
I have criticized the Cavaliers in the past for signing Z over thinking long-term and keeping Boozer instead. Time has proven me right in terms of which player is a better pro right now.
However, I must credit Z for working hard every night and changing his game for the better after reaching the age of 30 and beyond. Z was mostly a post-up player prior to his foot injuries. Since coming back, he has steadily improved his shooting and is now one of the best face-up shooting post men in the game. This makes him valuable on a team with LJ - who draws so much attention.
Danny Ferry and Mike Brown have said over and over again the team needed to surrround 23 with shooters. That's the main reason the 11-player deal came down several weeks ago. In theory, between Joe Smith, Wally Z., Boobie G.,, once healthy, and Z, Mike Brown should be able to find a couple players who can make teams CONSISTENTY pay when they decide to mug James come April.
Wally Z. is not a good man-on-man defender, however, his size and range, along with his 16-point career scoring average will get him floor time. It's up to him to take advantage of it.
Notice I did not mention D.West or Damon J. That's because both have been unable to defend. Jones has a history of not being able to defend and will likely to see his minutes cut when Gibson returns. Here's hoping West plays better at the defensive end of the floor come playoff time, or he will become a spectator as well.
D’Angelo Hall
Now we know what a quality cover corner is worth on the open market – a high #2 draft choice and a second day pick to go along with it. D’Angelo Hall, arguably one of the NFL’s best corners, was recently dealt from Atlanta to Oakland. He then signed a huge contract potentially worth $70 million. Yet, the Falcons could not get a #1 pick for a corner that has Pro Bowl talent and is in his prime.
It never ceases to amaze me how NFL teams value draft choices more than proven talent. Answer this – what are the odds the Falcons will draft a player that has a better NFL career than Hall with that #2 pick? The odds are slim that will happen. That’s the point. Teams, time and time again, value picks over guys who “have done it.”
There is an out here – in many cases, the NFL players being traded carry some baggage (i.e. Hall), otherwise they would not likely be dealt. However, in nine out of 10 cases, we prefer the guy who has done it over an unknown quantity - a yet to be determined draft pick.
You may wonder then why do I want the Browns to deal DA – who “has done it” albeit for one year (2007). Simple. I think they have someone better waiting in the wings and they still have needs to fill elsewhere (i.e. pass rusher, linebacker, corner, safety, etc...)
Indians In 2008
As many of you know, I don’t follow the Grapefruit League/Cactus League schedule. It means nothing. Last year, I had the Indians finishing at 89-73 and narrowly missing out on post-season. I was wrong. Good.
This year, with everyone basically back, one can expect the Tribe to once again be in the hunt. That’s not a bulletin.
Here are two things that must happen if they expect to once again be one of the league’s elite teams in 2008 - Travis Hafner has to bounce back and have a quality season at the plate and Fausto Carmona has to show that 2007 was not a fluke. If those two things happen, the Tribe should once again be a 90+ win team – which hopefully will be good enough to qualify for post-season play.
That's not to say Hafner has to go 40/120 while hitting .320. Few players do that anymore now that the "juice" has been reduced in MLB. But he must do much better than a year ago. You can't pay a DH that kind of cash and have him hit .250 with average power numbers.
As for Carmona, if he has an ERA in the mid threes while winning 17 games, I would be thrilled. AL hitters have now had a full year to study him. It will be interesting to see what adjustments have been made.
Tyler Hansbrough
I have been watching some Division I basketball tournament play and have come to this conclusion – Tyler Hansbrough is a terrific college player who plays with great heart and deserves every positive accolade one can give him for the way he carries himself at North Carolina.
However, he would not be in my top-10 if I were drafting for an NBA team - any NBA team. He’s simply too mechanical, too slow-footed to be a 30 minute a night player at the next level. That’s not to say he won’t work his tail off for you and be a solid role player, but if he is a relatively high lottery pick, that GM in question should be held accountable when Hansbrough struggles.
Jeremiah Wood
On the other hand, I have seen my alma mater’s Jeremiah Wood (University of Akron) play several times now in recent weeks and feel this 6-6 post player would be a good fit taken in the second round or signed as a free agent by an NBA team that needs to fill out its bench.
Wood was obviously overlooked by large Division I schools because he lacked height for a player who did most of his damage with his back to the basket. Akron wisely picked him up and he excelled for them. They (Akron) even listed him as a forward, even though he does much of his damage inside. Because of his footwork in the paint and relentless approach, he is deserving of a look at the next level.
Politics
Now my political thought for the week - Obama is done. Many Americans simply do not want to be reminded we still have race issues to deal with - especially those in towns like Scranton, PA or Youngstown, Ohio. Many middle class whites are resentful when the race issue is brought up. That doesn't make them right - it just makes it so. These folks are busy trying to pay for $3 a gallon gas and frustrated they can't save enough for their kids' college. They don't want to be told there is unfinished business in terms of race they must address. No sir.
I can understand Senator Obama's pastor having some built up anger for whites. He grew up in the 1950s & 1960s when blacks could not eat in many restaurants and were told certain water fountains were off limits as well. He lived through injustice yet served his country as a Marine. I can see why he feels conflicted. So I cut him some slack. I would probably feel the same way if I were black and approaching retirement or in my 70s.
However, times have changed. In some cases, the balance has been tilted in favor of minority hirings to help even out years of injustice. I am okay with that. I do belive in some form of Affirmative Action. Our society is not totally color blind - but things are much better.
However, the problem for Obama is the danger of being seen strictly as a black candidate - something he had been able to avoid until the "Rev. Wright Controversy" arose. That's not good.
Middle class whites, who are struggling from pay check to pay check, and feel no one is giving them any special favors, could punish Obama at the ballot box come November - if not sooner, if they believe, in their minds, Obama sees the world like his pastor and friend of 20 years.
Obama has an interesting resume and is an excellent orator with the ability to move people to action. My guess is he's like that team that reaches the playoffs for the first time. That squad is more likely to do serious damage the next time around - after being there once and learning from it.
The same may be the case for the Senator from Illinois.
Cavaliers Lack D
The Cavaliers are starting to fall into a dangerous pattern of winning at home but falling badly on the road – even against sub-par teams. That means they aren’t defending every night. You can do that and win at home – especially when you have arguably the best closer in the game (23). But on the road, it's a different story.
They are having an especially difficult time stopping guard penetration. This was also the case when Larry Hughes wore a Cavs’ uniform, but it’s even more of a problem now. The Cavaliers will need to tighten up defensively if they want to do serious damage in the post-season. Not having Big Ben healthy also allows quality post players to feast on the Cavs inside.
I may be the only observer around who feels not having Eric Snow healthy hurts this team heading into the post-season. Snow would make it much more difficult for the opposing point guard to go where he pleases. Having Snow available, even for short spurts come post-season, would help the Cavaliers advance.
Andy & Ben
You can’t play both Andy V and Ben W at the same time on a consistent basis. We have stated that before. Neither player can score the basketball. It makes it too easy for teams to defend James and the other players on the floor. That's not to say both aren't important to the team's success however.
Mind you, the addition of Wallace is a good fit – as we stated at the time of the trade – because he is a perfect compliment to Z, who is the team’s best 15-foot face-up shooter.
Screen & Roll
This conversation all leads us to the pick and roll sets the Cavaliers run. I see no reason why the Cavaliers run screen and roll with James and either Ben or Andy. All it does is bring another body over to help defend James. Besides, neither Andy nor Ben can finish unless they are standing under the basket with no one around them.
It makes much more sense to involve Wally Z. or Joe Smith in those screen/roll situations with James. The reason why Z and James work well on screen/rolls is because Z has turned himself into an excellent perimeter shooter. The same amount of success – if not more – could occur if you involve Wally/Joe in pick and pop sets with 23.
This is the time to tinker so you know what will and won’t work come playoff time.
More Z
I have criticized the Cavaliers in the past for signing Z over thinking long-term and keeping Boozer instead. Time has proven me right in terms of which player is a better pro right now.
However, I must credit Z for working hard every night and changing his game for the better after reaching the age of 30 and beyond. Z was mostly a post-up player prior to his foot injuries. Since coming back, he has steadily improved his shooting and is now one of the best face-up shooting post men in the game. This makes him valuable on a team with LJ - who draws so much attention.
Danny Ferry and Mike Brown have said over and over again the team needed to surrround 23 with shooters. That's the main reason the 11-player deal came down several weeks ago. In theory, between Joe Smith, Wally Z., Boobie G.,, once healthy, and Z, Mike Brown should be able to find a couple players who can make teams CONSISTENTY pay when they decide to mug James come April.
Wally Z. is not a good man-on-man defender, however, his size and range, along with his 16-point career scoring average will get him floor time. It's up to him to take advantage of it.
Notice I did not mention D.West or Damon J. That's because both have been unable to defend. Jones has a history of not being able to defend and will likely to see his minutes cut when Gibson returns. Here's hoping West plays better at the defensive end of the floor come playoff time, or he will become a spectator as well.
D’Angelo Hall
Now we know what a quality cover corner is worth on the open market – a high #2 draft choice and a second day pick to go along with it. D’Angelo Hall, arguably one of the NFL’s best corners, was recently dealt from Atlanta to Oakland. He then signed a huge contract potentially worth $70 million. Yet, the Falcons could not get a #1 pick for a corner that has Pro Bowl talent and is in his prime.
It never ceases to amaze me how NFL teams value draft choices more than proven talent. Answer this – what are the odds the Falcons will draft a player that has a better NFL career than Hall with that #2 pick? The odds are slim that will happen. That’s the point. Teams, time and time again, value picks over guys who “have done it.”
There is an out here – in many cases, the NFL players being traded carry some baggage (i.e. Hall), otherwise they would not likely be dealt. However, in nine out of 10 cases, we prefer the guy who has done it over an unknown quantity - a yet to be determined draft pick.
You may wonder then why do I want the Browns to deal DA – who “has done it” albeit for one year (2007). Simple. I think they have someone better waiting in the wings and they still have needs to fill elsewhere (i.e. pass rusher, linebacker, corner, safety, etc...)
Indians In 2008
As many of you know, I don’t follow the Grapefruit League/Cactus League schedule. It means nothing. Last year, I had the Indians finishing at 89-73 and narrowly missing out on post-season. I was wrong. Good.
This year, with everyone basically back, one can expect the Tribe to once again be in the hunt. That’s not a bulletin.
Here are two things that must happen if they expect to once again be one of the league’s elite teams in 2008 - Travis Hafner has to bounce back and have a quality season at the plate and Fausto Carmona has to show that 2007 was not a fluke. If those two things happen, the Tribe should once again be a 90+ win team – which hopefully will be good enough to qualify for post-season play.
That's not to say Hafner has to go 40/120 while hitting .320. Few players do that anymore now that the "juice" has been reduced in MLB. But he must do much better than a year ago. You can't pay a DH that kind of cash and have him hit .250 with average power numbers.
As for Carmona, if he has an ERA in the mid threes while winning 17 games, I would be thrilled. AL hitters have now had a full year to study him. It will be interesting to see what adjustments have been made.
Tyler Hansbrough
I have been watching some Division I basketball tournament play and have come to this conclusion – Tyler Hansbrough is a terrific college player who plays with great heart and deserves every positive accolade one can give him for the way he carries himself at North Carolina.
However, he would not be in my top-10 if I were drafting for an NBA team - any NBA team. He’s simply too mechanical, too slow-footed to be a 30 minute a night player at the next level. That’s not to say he won’t work his tail off for you and be a solid role player, but if he is a relatively high lottery pick, that GM in question should be held accountable when Hansbrough struggles.
Jeremiah Wood
On the other hand, I have seen my alma mater’s Jeremiah Wood (University of Akron) play several times now in recent weeks and feel this 6-6 post player would be a good fit taken in the second round or signed as a free agent by an NBA team that needs to fill out its bench.
Wood was obviously overlooked by large Division I schools because he lacked height for a player who did most of his damage with his back to the basket. Akron wisely picked him up and he excelled for them. They (Akron) even listed him as a forward, even though he does much of his damage inside. Because of his footwork in the paint and relentless approach, he is deserving of a look at the next level.
Politics
Now my political thought for the week - Obama is done. Many Americans simply do not want to be reminded we still have race issues to deal with - especially those in towns like Scranton, PA or Youngstown, Ohio. Many middle class whites are resentful when the race issue is brought up. That doesn't make them right - it just makes it so. These folks are busy trying to pay for $3 a gallon gas and frustrated they can't save enough for their kids' college. They don't want to be told there is unfinished business in terms of race they must address. No sir.
I can understand Senator Obama's pastor having some built up anger for whites. He grew up in the 1950s & 1960s when blacks could not eat in many restaurants and were told certain water fountains were off limits as well. He lived through injustice yet served his country as a Marine. I can see why he feels conflicted. So I cut him some slack. I would probably feel the same way if I were black and approaching retirement or in my 70s.
However, times have changed. In some cases, the balance has been tilted in favor of minority hirings to help even out years of injustice. I am okay with that. I do belive in some form of Affirmative Action. Our society is not totally color blind - but things are much better.
However, the problem for Obama is the danger of being seen strictly as a black candidate - something he had been able to avoid until the "Rev. Wright Controversy" arose. That's not good.
Middle class whites, who are struggling from pay check to pay check, and feel no one is giving them any special favors, could punish Obama at the ballot box come November - if not sooner, if they believe, in their minds, Obama sees the world like his pastor and friend of 20 years.
Obama has an interesting resume and is an excellent orator with the ability to move people to action. My guess is he's like that team that reaches the playoffs for the first time. That squad is more likely to do serious damage the next time around - after being there once and learning from it.
The same may be the case for the Senator from Illinois.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
LeBron & Fan Behavior
LeBron James just doesn’t get it when it comes to fan behavior.
LeBron James is dead wrong and I am afraid no one – the Cavaliers’ front office, the league or his agents - have the guts to tell him so.
I am referring to the recent incident in New York where a fan came out of the stands and reached James on the floor at Madison Square Garden after he (James) went off for 50 points in a win over the Knicks.
James seemed to be friendly toward the 17-year old fan and later told reporters he didn’t mind the incident – saying he was not afraid since he was “6-9/250 pounds.”
The mega-star made matters even worse when it was later reported the fan in question would be James' guest at an upcoming game. Soon after that leaked out, James’ people refuted the rumor, but the damage was already done.
Why didn’t James have the common sense to make the following statement after the incident?
“I appreciate their support, but fans have absolutely no right to come out of the stands and onto the floor. That type of action potentially puts others at risk.”
Perhaps no one in the Cavaliers’ organization had the guts to tell “The King” what to say.
Why didn’t the league ask James to make such a statement the following day?
Perhaps the commissioner’s office did not have the guts to tell “The Chosen One” what to say either.
The same can be said of the numerous adults who represent the 23-year old.
LeBron James is the most high profile player the NBA has going and that will likely remain so for years to come. To date, he has said and done all the right things – with the exception of his 100+ mph speeding ticket and wearing of Yankee garb at an Indians’ home playoff game. The speeding put him at physical risk and the Gotham hat did little more than upset the local fan base for a time.
But this incident has ramifications beyond just idol worship gone wrong.
Just as players have no business going into the stands, fans have no right coming out of the stands for numerous reasons – the most importance of which is the athletes’ safety. By almost befriending this individual, James is sending out the absolute wrong message.
If James hasn’t been asked to do so or won’t do it, the league should step in and make a public statement re-emphasizing this fact.
Secondly, the Knicks should ban this individual from Madison Squarer Garden for life and he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Madison Square Garden should also do a thorough investigation of its security measures and make sure this never happens again. Ditto for the rest of the NBA's playing venues.
I have stated over and over again that fans have no business on the field of play. That’s a catastrophe waiting to happen – whether it is at the college level following a major upset or at the professional level when a fan decides to make the playing field his living room.
What would be the reaction today in the sports world if that individual's intentions were to do harm James and he was able to carry out those actions?
Fortunately in the U.S., our sports fans are relatively sane - especially when compared to the supporters of the world's #1 sport - soccer. But let's make sure we, in the States, get this one right nonetheless.
LeBron James got it wrong, and because he is who he is, has not been excoriated for it. That is bad enough.
But what’s worse, the grown ups who run the sport and know better have not stepped in and cleaned up the mess.
That’s inexcusable.
LeBron James is dead wrong and I am afraid no one – the Cavaliers’ front office, the league or his agents - have the guts to tell him so.
I am referring to the recent incident in New York where a fan came out of the stands and reached James on the floor at Madison Square Garden after he (James) went off for 50 points in a win over the Knicks.
James seemed to be friendly toward the 17-year old fan and later told reporters he didn’t mind the incident – saying he was not afraid since he was “6-9/250 pounds.”
The mega-star made matters even worse when it was later reported the fan in question would be James' guest at an upcoming game. Soon after that leaked out, James’ people refuted the rumor, but the damage was already done.
Why didn’t James have the common sense to make the following statement after the incident?
“I appreciate their support, but fans have absolutely no right to come out of the stands and onto the floor. That type of action potentially puts others at risk.”
Perhaps no one in the Cavaliers’ organization had the guts to tell “The King” what to say.
Why didn’t the league ask James to make such a statement the following day?
Perhaps the commissioner’s office did not have the guts to tell “The Chosen One” what to say either.
The same can be said of the numerous adults who represent the 23-year old.
LeBron James is the most high profile player the NBA has going and that will likely remain so for years to come. To date, he has said and done all the right things – with the exception of his 100+ mph speeding ticket and wearing of Yankee garb at an Indians’ home playoff game. The speeding put him at physical risk and the Gotham hat did little more than upset the local fan base for a time.
But this incident has ramifications beyond just idol worship gone wrong.
Just as players have no business going into the stands, fans have no right coming out of the stands for numerous reasons – the most importance of which is the athletes’ safety. By almost befriending this individual, James is sending out the absolute wrong message.
If James hasn’t been asked to do so or won’t do it, the league should step in and make a public statement re-emphasizing this fact.
Secondly, the Knicks should ban this individual from Madison Squarer Garden for life and he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Madison Square Garden should also do a thorough investigation of its security measures and make sure this never happens again. Ditto for the rest of the NBA's playing venues.
I have stated over and over again that fans have no business on the field of play. That’s a catastrophe waiting to happen – whether it is at the college level following a major upset or at the professional level when a fan decides to make the playing field his living room.
What would be the reaction today in the sports world if that individual's intentions were to do harm James and he was able to carry out those actions?
Fortunately in the U.S., our sports fans are relatively sane - especially when compared to the supporters of the world's #1 sport - soccer. But let's make sure we, in the States, get this one right nonetheless.
LeBron James got it wrong, and because he is who he is, has not been excoriated for it. That is bad enough.
But what’s worse, the grown ups who run the sport and know better have not stepped in and cleaned up the mess.
That’s inexcusable.
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