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Game Changers: Undersized players left big mark on league

2011-08-26T02:34:00.000-07:00

It was one of those remarks that most people thought was absurd at the time, but not so much nowadays.

Allan Bristow, former coach of the then-Charlotte Hornets, said: "Everyone talks about how we'll never see another Michael Jordan and we'll never see another Larry Bird. But truth is, we'll never see another Muggsy Bogues."

You could say a lot of folks sold Bristow short. While we are indeed waiting for the next Jordan, and perhaps we saw the next Bird during the 2011 NBA Finals, our great-grandchildren might be the only witnesses the next time a 5-foot-3 player darts around the floor like a pinball and carves out a very productive NBA career.

Plain and simple, NBA teams just aren't big on little guys anymore. Not that they ever were. But you just don't see an abundance of players under 6-feet on rosters, and definitely none in All-Star Games.

That makes Muggsy, Spud Webb and Calvin Murphy before both of them, Game Changers who paved the way for the little man -- even though the NBA still practices size discrimination.

Only three sub-6-footers were on active rosters last season. None was what you'd consider a star, or even close. And none was selected in the first round of the most recent Draft. Which means there's no Muggsy in the works. (He was the 12th pick of the 1987 Draft, in case you forgot.)

The game at the highest level remains a near-impossible goal for anyone who measures up to Yao Ming's kneecaps. And those who happen to squeeze through the cracks are mainly role players or gimmicks who don't last very long or change the minds of NBA general managers.

The reasons are obvious and numerous. Lack of size translates into big issues, mainly on the defensive end, where they're posted up more than a yellow sticky memo. And they're stuck playing only one position. And they must be exceptional athletes, or extraordinarily good at shooting and/or dribbling, to have a chance.

Webb once said: "I see myself as a basketball player, just like anyone else in the league," but not everyone else in the league could jump almost two feet over his own height. An unmatched vertical leap kept Webb (5-foot-7) in a uniform, although he was also a very efficient passer and could hit the jumper if left open. Like most short players, he compensated for, or covered up, his weaknesses very well; anything less would've been fatal to his career.

Bogues was a freak of nature. He had no business lasting 14 seasons in the NBA, or being selected in the first round, because he had no tremendous skill. He wasn't a terrific outside shooter, nor was he a leaper (and even if he were, it wasn't going to help) and as a passer he was solid but not Stockton-like. His gifts were amazing quickness, both with his feet and hands; a low center of gravity that gave him great balance and assisted him defensively; and anticipation. He was also very smart at knowing how players would try to exploit him; he'd been trained for that his entire basketball life.

The gold standard, of course was Murphy, the shortest player in the Hall of Fame at 5-foot-9. He was the purest basketball player of any little man who ever made the NBA. Murphy could shoot with range, had a tight dribble and could spot the open man (when he decided to pass the ball, anyway). He was listed as a point guard, but in truth Murphy was an undersized shooter who averaged 20-plus points five times and finished with a career scoring average of 17.9 points. And he was feisty, willing and able to challenge taller and heavier players who dared to impose their physical strength on him.

Beyond those three players, the little man has mainly been short on impact and numbers, with only a few exceptions.

Michael Adams made himself a dangerous 3-point specialist in the Doug Moe system with the Nuggets in the late 1980s. Avery Johnson, the Little General, had a decent run with the Spurs in the 1990s. Terrell Brandon was a two-time All-Star and was solid for the Cavs and Wolves in the 1990s. Damon Stoudamire, the 1996 Rookie of the Year, gradually faded as the years went on.

Allen Iverson was slightly built (160 pounds after dessert) but listed at 6-feet, whether anyone believed it or not. Isiah Thomas was 6-foot-1. In fact, there has been a host of players in the low 6-foot range who had good and even great careers. Some are still active.

But sub-6-footers? Only a small number. So to speak.

NBA announces D-League affiliation system for 2011-12 season

2011-07-08T04:21:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK -- The National Basketball Association and the NBA Development League, the official minor league of the NBA, today announced the affiliation system for the 2011-12 season. An all-time high nine NBA teams will have single NBA D-League affiliates -- more than double last season's total of four -- including first-year partnerships between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Canton, the Golden State Warriors and Dakota Wizards, the New Jersey Nets and Springfield Armor and the New York Knicks and Erie BayHawks, along with the return of the Los Angeles D-Fenders, the Los Angeles Lakers' single affiliate.

For the seventh consecutive year, each NBA team has one NBA D-League team to which it may assign players. During the 2010-11 season, the NBA D-League saw all-time highs in NBA player assignments (56), individual players assigned (39) and NBA teams assigning a player (25), while last season marked the first time every NBA D-League team was assigned an NBA player.

"We're very excited that an all-time-high nine NBA teams will have exclusive, 'one-to-one' relationships with their NBA D-League affiliates this coming season," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "This clear trend of NBA teams buying into the NBA D-League is not only a testament to our past success, but also the sign of a very promising future."

The NBA D-League will again have 16 teams playing in 2011-12, including Canton, which will play its first year in Canton, Ohio, under the ownership of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles D-Fenders, who resume operation under the ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers after taking a one-year hiatus.

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NBA At 2: Jet Psyching Out LeBron?

2011-06-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

The NBA Finals are truly where legends are born, and after getting off to a slow start in the series Dallas Mavericks guard Jason Terry is starting to look like something of a legend.

After being stifled by the defense of Miami's LeBron James in the first three games of the Finals, Terry started running his mouth, more to get himself charged up than anything else. It worked, too. After saying he didn't believe LeBron could contain him for seven games "The Jet" scored 17 points in Game 4, including the two free throws that iced an 86-83 win for Dallas. He also scored eight of the Mavs' final 17 points, he was just getting warmed up.

Game 5 saw more of the same from Jet, who looked to upstage LeBron at every turn. Despite James' tough defense Jet again came up big in the fourth quarter, scoring eight of his 21 points in the final frame. None were bigger than the three he scored on a trey he somehow managed to drill while LeBron flew in his face, a shot that put Dallas up 108-101 with 33 seconds left and assured them of a 3-2 series lead as the Finals shift back to Miami.

"He played great," said Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle after the game. "He played great. During period where Dirk was out of the game, we were going to him, and he was delivering. Those are critical stretches because it's tough when Dirk is out of the game. But it's the total game that we've been preaching to Jet really since the playoffs began and tonight he did a terrific job."

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The Bulls are next

2011-03-26T09:52:00.000-07:00

Now comes the hard part for the Bucks.

With two victories over the reeling New York Knicks and their gaffe against Sacramento behind them, the Bucks will close out the week against the Chicago Bulls, who have emerged as one of the elite teams in the league, Saturday night at the Bradley Center.

The Bucks are 0-3 against Chicago this season.

There is a limited supply of tickets available for tonight’s game.

With their 102-96 victory over the Knicks Friday at Madison Square Garden, the Bucks picked up a game in the playoff race on Indiana which lost at home to Sacramento. The Bucks lost to the Kings Wednesday in the Bradley Center.

“We don’t worry about (the Pacers) but we want to keep trying to win,” said center Andrew Bogut. “We have a tough schedule. (Tonight) is going to be a real battle and hopefully we can steal one against one of the best teams in the NBA. We did ourselves no favors (in losing to Sacramento) so we have our work cut out for us.”

Said point guard Brandon Jennings, “We have to take care of business. Now we play against Chicago, a team that’s No. 1. They’ve got the MVP of the NBA on their team (in Derrick Rose) and we have to go and take care of business. We’re trying to make that push for the playoffs.”

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NHL, NBA Playoff and Michael Buble tickets on sale this weekend

2011-03-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

NHL Playoff tickets and NBA Playoff tickets for certain teams, as well as tickets to several upcoming concert dates from Michael Buble are on sale throughout the weekend ending March 28 as compiled by TicketNews.

Starting off this weekend's onsales are tickets to the upcoming NHL and NBA playoff season. Tickets go on sale this morning for the upcoming first and possible second round Chicago Bulls playoff games. Currently in possession of first place in the NBA's Eastern Conference, the Bulls would clinch home court advantage should they maintain their position until the end of the regular season.

Also among today's onsales are tickets to the NHL's Dallas Stars first round home games, while Saturday morning offers tickets to first round Detroit Red Wings playoff games. While the Red Wings appear to be in a solid position to clinch a playoff spot, the Stars are currently one point shy of qualifying for a playoff spot.

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NBA: Warriors rout of Raptors 138-100

2011-03-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

Oakland, CA - Monta Ellis scored 27 points and led seven Golden State players in double figures in a 138-100 rout of the Toronto Raptors.

The Warriors set an NBA season-high with 84 points in the first half. Dorell Wright tallied 26 points, Stephen Curry 23 and David Lee 21, including the first made three-pointer of his career.

Everything seemed to be falling for the Warriors. They scored 45 in the opening quarter, ended the game shooting 61.4 percent and snapped a six-game slide.

"I wanted to send a message to our team that we are building," Warriors head coach Keith Smart said. "This is a process. The way we have always done it at this time of year, to sit back and not play, you've got your better players on your team who want to play and will play, and that's a good thing."

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L.A. Lakers: Are Gasol, Bynum, and Odom the NBA's Top Postseason Advantage?

2011-03-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

Kobe Bryant may lead the Los Angeles Lakers to the 2010-11 NBA Finals, but if the team hopes to capture their 3rd consecutive title it will be because of the play of Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, and Lamar Odom.

Gasol, Odom, and Bynum give the Lakers one of the biggest, most talented, and productive front lines in the NBA, and it may be an advantage that no other team can match in the postseason.

The only other trio that even comes close to matching the production of Gasol, Bynum, and Odom is the Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah, Carlos Boozer, and Taj Gibson.

The Lakers' players average 44.8 points per game and 27 rebounds, while the Bulls' trio averages 37 points and 25.3 rebounds.

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Matthews powers Portland past Philadelphia

2011-03-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

PORTLAND, Ore. – Wesley Matthews had 17 of his 28 points in the first quarter, helping the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Philadelphia 76ers 110-101 Saturday night.

Gerald Wallace added 25 points and a season-high eight assists for the Blazers (40-29), who won for the seventh time in nine games to move within a half-game of Denver for the fifth playoff spot in the Western Conference. LaMarcus Aldridge had 18 points and Nicolas Batum finished with 16.

Lou Williams had 24 points, part of a 59-point night for Philadelphia's reserves. Thaddeus Young had 19 points and Jodie Meeks added 17.

The Sixers (36-34) played without Andre Igoudala, who has been bothered by knee tendinitis. Leading scorer Elton Brand was held to 10 points.

The Blazers led the whole way. Philadelphia was as close as 92-89 with 9:11 remaining after Brand hit three straight shots, but Portland responded with a 9-0 run.

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Bynum may be NBA's biggest big man

2011-03-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Others are taller and some weigh more, but is there a bigger big man than Andrew Bynum in the NBA? Bynum, officially listed at 7-foot and 285 pounds, certainly measured up against the Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard, who's 6-11, 275.

"He's a big guy, man," Orlando point guard Jameer Nelson said of Bynum after the Lakers rallied to defeat the Magic 97-84 on Monday night at Staples Center for their 10th victory in 11 games since the All-Star break.

"He's a handful," Nelson continued. "It's like he's out there and you think you've got the ball, and he has it in his hands. You're jumping for the ball, but he's just standing there tipping it to himself to get those extra shots."

Bynum scored 10 points and matched his career high with 18 rebounds Monday, his fourth consecutive game with 10 or more points and his sixth straight with 12 or more rebounds. He's had a big impact on the Lakers' winning ways since the All-Star break.

After rounding into form slowly following offseason right knee surgery that sidelined him for the first 24 games of 2010-11, Bynum has become a force in the paint for the Lakers. His season averages have risen to 11.6 points and 8.8 rebounds.

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Impressive Lakers roll past Orlando in 2nd half

2011-03-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES – By the time Kobe Bryant talked himself into a little confidence in his swollen ankle in the second half, Andrew Bynum and the Los Angeles Lakers' reserves had already taken care of Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic.

Pau Gasol scored 23 points, Bryant added 16 while playing on a sprained left ankle, and the Lakers roared away in the second half for their 10th win in 11 games, 97-84 Monday night.

Bynum had 10 points, a career high-tying 18 rebounds and four blocks while hounding Howard into nine turnovers — four more than the entire Lakers squad — in another eye-catching low-post game for the Lakers' young center.

It all added up to a rather easy night of work for Bryant, who decided to play despite seriously rolling his ankle during the third quarter of Saturday's win at Dallas.

"It was more mental," said Bryant, who went 7 for 19 and missed eight shots in the first half. "It affected my bounce a little bit just because of the trust factor, just trusting it in the first half. Then at halftime, I just gave it a little pep talk."

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Bryant struggles and still leads Lakers over Mavs

2011-03-12T20:45:00.000-08:00

DALLAS – Kobe Bryant overcame a sore ankle to score 16 points, helping the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Dallas Mavericks 96-91 on Saturday night.

Bryant shot just 6 of 20, but scored six points and assisted on the other basket in a 9-0 run by the Lakers late in the second quarter. That snapped a tie and put them ahead to stay.

After Bryant came down awkwardly on his left ankle late in the third quarter and left the game for a bit, the Lakers immediately scored eight consecutive points to stretch the lead to 10.

The Mavericks (47-19) are only a half-game ahead of Los Angeles (47-20) for second place in the Western Conference.

After topping the Heat yet again, this Rose is in full bloom

2011-02-25T09:21:00.000-08:00

Within the larger confines of The Race To The MVP, a dash to the More Valuable Player Award broke out Thursday night at Chicago's United Center.

That's More Valuable, rather than Most, because in this case it was a comparative competition rather than a superlative. The Race is a generous form, with spots for 10 MVP candidates even though the NBA's official ballot allows for only five. But with Derrick Rose and LeBron James running 1-2 -- in that order -- atop The Race for weeks now, it seemed appropriate that the showdown of their teams, the Chicago Bulls vs. the Miami Heat, might narrow the MVP focus in laser-like fashion.

Members of the committee, all of whom were in the house, weren't the only ones who saw it that way.

"So would it be safe to say that the result of tonight's big matchup between Miami vs. Chicago (in Chicago) will determine who the #1 ranked guy on the Race is tomorrow?" e-mailer "Yoon Mi" wrote. "I can't wait cause it is going to be an awesome game and a possible playoff preview. "Personally I agree with ESPN's award watch that LeBron is the MVP right now but I agree with you on the other 2-10 rankings. Hopefully LBJ can prove me right tonight with a big road win and send Chicago to a second consecutive loss. Cheers!"

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Cavaliers Target Guard Baron Davis Ahead of Today's NBA Trade Deadline

2011-02-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

The Cleveland Cavaliers may join the New Jersey Nets and Atlanta Hawks in adding new point guards ahead of today’s National Basketball Association trade deadline.

The Cavaliers reached an agreement in principle to acquire Baron Davis and a 2011 first-round draft pick from the Los Angeles Clippers for Mo Williams and Jamario Moon, Yahoo Sports reports, citing unidentified league officials.

Davis has averaged 16.5 points and 7.3 rebounds over his 12-year NBA career.

The Nets acquired point guard Deron Williams from the Utah Jazz yesterday, while the Hawks last night got Kirk Hinrich from Washington in a five-player trade that sent Mike Bibby to the Wizards.

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Nuggets would be foolish to ship out Carmelo Anthony

2010-08-21T22:53:00.000-07:00

Suffer, sadly, the fools who, this very day, would throw Carmelo Anthony under the bus, to the curb, over the cliff and into the briar patch.

Can't we see how this plays out?

In Carmelo Anthony's seven seasons in Denver, the Nuggets have won 338 regular-season games, averaging just over 48 victories per season, finished first or second in the division 6 times, reached the playoffs in every season and advanced to the conference finals once (and, yes, lost in the first round all other years).

In the eight seasons prior to Carmelo Anthony's arrival, the Nuggets won 200 games, an average of 25 per season and NEVER made the playoffs.

Yet, because Carmelo hasn't made up his mind yet about accepting a three-year, $65 million contract extension offer, because some people made cute, champagne remarks at his wedding, because the Knicks were snubbed by LeBron James and look like the buffoons they are, because some people in New York and on talk radio claim to have sources who are friends of sources who drink on barstools next to sources, some people in Denver want to run the Nuggets' most accomplished NBA player, ever, out of town — immediately.

The rest of us must suffer the fools.

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NBA : Stephen Curry Hopes to Play Saturday

2010-08-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

Though Stephen Curry said his left ankle was at just “80 percent” in yesterday’s practice, he’s looking to play this weekend as the US takes on Lithuania on Saturday and defending world champion Spain on Sunday: From Marcus Thompson: “Doctors told him there is no structural damage to the ligaments or tendons in his left ankle.

Curry’s sprained ankle, he promises, is really just a mild sprained ankle. So much so, he is going to continue his pursuit of making the national team for the World Championships. He said if he thought the injury would linger, he would leave Team USA to make sure he is healthy for the season.

He said he is hoping to play in Saturday’s game vs. Lithuania in Spain, though it all depends on how his ankle feels. He is presumed to be in a battle with Clippers guard Eric Gordon for the 12th and final roster spot for the World Championships, which starts Aug. 28 in Turkey.”

NBA : Chicago Bulls making their “moves”

2010-08-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

This year’s trade market was one of the busiest as well as biggest in the NBA history. With big names like LeBron James and Chris Bosh moving to Miami Heat, NBA witnessed a lot of buzz lately. Some fans consider the move would be successful whereas others have opposite views. The Miami Heat has come up with big signings, with other teams following its footsteps.

Trying to recapture the days in which they were the only dominating force in the NBA, the Bulls intended to sign LeBron James, who is expected to bring the same royals as Michael Jordan once did. After failing to sign King James, the Chicago Bulls came up signing Carlos Boozer to further boost their talented squad that lacked experience. LeBron joined the Miami Heat that couldn’t manage to get past the first round playoffs. Not only did the Bulls sign Boozer but came up with another amazing signing that strengthens three scoring abilities by bagging Kyle Korver, a three-point specialist from the Utah Jazz.

Not only this, the Bulls also managed to trade away a few players from their squad so that they could rotate the players and every person in the team could play without any conflicts.

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Stephen Curry hoping for quick recovery from ankle injury

2010-08-19T13:03:00.000-07:00

MADRID (AP) -- Stephen Curry is eager to overcome an ankle injury, hopeful it won't impact his chances of making the U.S. roster for the world championship.

Stephen Curry didn't practice Thursday after suffering a mild sprain to his left ankle a day earlier. The U.S. team said Curry's recovery was "progressing'' but he remained day to day.

With one player still to be cut from the 13-man squad -- and most likely a guard -- Stephen Curry looked slightly anxious after watching his teammates practice.

"It hurts. To miss a great practice like this with the scrimmaging and all -- it's never great to have an injury, especially in a pressure situation like this,'' Stephen Curry said at the Magic Box center on the outskirts of the Spanish capital. "I just have to make sure I get back this weekend.''

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NBA : Rudy Fernandez ignoring Portland Trail Blazers

2010-08-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

MADRID, Spain -- Rudy Fernandez is not returning calls from Portland Trail Blazers coach Nate McMillan, and the NBA on Thursday was investigating whether Fernandez or his agent violated league rules by threatening a holdout.

With Team USA set to play Rudy Fernandez and the Spanish national team Sunday night, the latest developments regarding the disgruntled Rudy Fernandez and the trade speculation surrounding Carmelo Anthony added 2 more subplots to an NBA offseason that refuses to take a holiday.

"I have tried to contact Rudy, and he hasn't returned calls [since the season ended]," Nate McMillan told ESPN.com. "So we'll just have to see what happens. We are looking to improve our team at all times, but I don't know what's going to happen."

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Paul Pierce still likes Boston Celtics in ever-changing NBA

2010-08-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

When he considers the new-age look of the NBA, Paul Pierce just shakes his head. Dwayne Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh keeping company in Miami. Talk of Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony leaving their respective teams.

“I have never seen a summer like this,” the Celtics captain said yesterday at his youth camp at Basketball City. “The landscape of the NBA is changing, West to East.

“It’s like the season never ended. You are seeing a new era in basketball. It’s going to be different the next 10, 15 years.”

Of course, Pierce’s team hasn’t exactly let the world pass by. General Manager Danny Ainge made several big moves this offseason, including re-signing Paul Pierce (after he opted out of his contract), Ray Allen, Nate Robinson and Marquis Daniels and adding veteran centers Shaquille O’Neal and Jermaine O’Neal.

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NBA : Where will Carmelo Anthony land?

2010-08-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

After what transpired this summer, with LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Carlos Boozer and Amare Stoudemire changing addresses, it looks like Carmelo Anthony wants to get in on the fun.

As ESPN's Ric Bucher reported on Monday, Carmelo Anthony is ready to split with the Denver Nuggets, whether by trade or free agency. And if he doesn't sign an extension in the meantime, Carmelo will be the star of the 2011 free agent class.

Where will he end up? We posed that question to our 93 NBA experts.

Here are the results:

New York (60 votes)

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Celtics: How "The Big Shamrock" Will Help The Celtics

2010-08-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

As a huge fan of Shaquille O'Neal, let me welcome the "Big Shamrock" to Boston. Ever since I started watching basketball, I’ve always loved watching the Diesel muscle his way through defenders and work the camera like no one in the history of the NBA. With that said, many people are a little skeptical of the signing because, let's face it, Shaquille O'Neal is 38 years old, clearly out of shape, and not nearly the player he once was. I look at the signing a bit differently...

We all watched the NBA Finals and saw the Boston Celtics get owned on the boards and just could not match up to the oversized team that was the Lakers. When Kendrick Perkins went down with a torn ACL and MCL in Game 6, all of Celtic Nation held their breath because we knew that we just lost one of the best defensive centers in the league at a time when we needed him most.

Even without Perk, the Boston Celtics were just a few minutes away from an 18th NBA Championship, but then that glaring hole at center really started to show. The likes of Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Kobe Bryant, and Andrew Bynum started getting all the rebounds that the Celtics could not get. Boston Celtics was just worn out and could not keep up with the Lakers who were able to keep their players fresh.

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Orlando Magic Sign Second Round Pick

2010-08-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

On Monday, the Orlando Magic officially signed forward Stanley Robinson. Robinson, selected in the second round (59th overall) of the 2010 NBA draft, played four seasons for the University of Connecticut. He also was considered an integral part of the Huskies 2009 run to the Final Four.

This summer, Stanley Robinson played on the Magic’s summer league team where he impressed staff by shooting fifty percent from the floor and he also excels in rebounding and, with his 6’9″ frame, shot blocking.

Per team policy, the terms of the deal were not disclosed.

LA Lakers: 30 Team Previews In 30 Days

2010-08-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

2009-10 Statistics

Finished 57-25, first in Pacific Division, first in Western Conference

Postseason

1st Round: Defeated Oklahoma City Thunder 4-2

2nd Round: Defeated Utah Jazz 4-0

Conference Finals: Defeated Phoenix Suns 4-3

NBA Finals: Defeated Boston Celtics 4-3

Additions and Re-Signings

Matt Barnes via free agency, Steve Blake via free agency, Theo Ratliff via free agency, Shannon Brown via re-signing, Derek Caracter via draft, and Devin Ebanks via draft.

Losses

Jordan Farmar via free agency and Josh Powell via free agency.

Revenge has never felt so good for the LA Lakers. After being ousted in 6 games in the 2007 NBA Finals by the Boston Celtics, the LA Lakers made it back to the NBA Finals to gain redemption against the team that had embarrassed them 2 years prior.

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Karl Mallone and Scottie Pippen Join Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame

2010-08-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

Getting into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame has been the dream of every basketball player. This prestigious recognition seems to be the ultimate achievement for a basketball player to have.

This year, two great basketball players have joined the group. Power forward Karl Malone and small forward Scottie Pippen were among the 10 inductees listed. Karl Malone has been nicknamed “The Mailman” way back his college years for his consistency and work in the post. It figuratively means “the mailman always delivers” and these has been Karl Malone been doing in his games. Proclaimed as two-time NBA’s Most Valuable Player and generally considered one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, and has scored the second most points (36,928) in NBA history. Deserving enough to be included.

Scottie Pippen on the other has a lot of things to brag out. He was best remembered in Chicago Bulls wherein he has been a part of their record of 1996 season of having 72 wins. He was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team 8 times and the All-NBA First Team 3 times. He was a 7-time NBA All Star and was the NBA All Star Game MVP in 1994. He has been considered to be one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History during the 1996–97 NBA season.

Karl Malone has been emotional in the induction and has dedicated everything to his mom. Scottie Pippen on the other has given Micheal Jordan for being his best team mate. “MJ, you have touched so many people’s lives, but none quite like mine. Thank you for being the best team mate. I will always cherish that experience and I will cherish our relationship forever”, Scottie Pippen said.

NBA Videos

2010-08-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

The Creativity of NBA Superstars HD

LeBron, Carmelo, Wade attend negotiating session

2010-08-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK—LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade and Chris Paul were among the players who attended a negotiating session between the NBA and the union Thursday.

"It is important for me that all of us, as being the faces of the NBA, to be involved in the negotiations and what's going on," Carmelo Anthony said as he left. "Our future is in jeopardy if we can't come into a mutual agreement."

Chauncey Billups and Joe Johnson also attended. Chris Paul is the only one of the All-Stars who was scheduled to be there as a member of the players' executive committee.

Players' association executive director Billy Hunter said 14 players participated in the meeting in Manhattan. The sides agreed to hold another session before training camp so players can take part again.

The current collective bargaining agreement expires June 30, 2011.

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NBA Trade: Darren Collison, Trevor Ariza and Troy Murphy Switch Teams

2010-08-12T18:06:00.000-07:00

Even though NBA free agency is basically over with all the big-names signing new deals after Tracy McGrady signed a one-year deal with the Detroit Pistons, a few teams around the league were still not content with their current rosters as the New Orleans Hornets, Houston Rockets, New Jersey Nets and Indiana Pacers chose to make a blockbuster trade.

The 2 biggest names involved in the recent 4-team trade was Darren Collison and Trevor Ariza. With only one year in Houston and New Orleans, Darren Collison and Trevor Ariza are already on the move as the promising young point guard will be headed to the Indiana Pacers and the defensive minded Ariza will be playing alongside Chris Paul next season.

Despite every team involved in this trade losing very good players, I believe all 4 teams will ultimately get better as a result. Along with Trevor Ariza and Darren Collison heading elsewhere, Troy Murphy, Courtney Lee and James Posey will also be wearing a different jersey next season.

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Celtics Sign Luke Harangody, NBA Title Now in Sight

2010-08-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

In what should be one of the moves that solidifies the Boston Celtics as the front runners for the 2010-11 NBA title, and banner number 18, the Boston Celtics have today signed undersized power forward Luke Harangody to a guaranteed contract.

The burly, flat-topped 6'6" (without shoes) power forward today inked a 2-year deal so rich that the terms were not disclosed. Luke Harangody, the 52nd pick of the 2010 draft, will compete for time with Glen "Big Baby" Davis in the now-crowded Celtics frontcourt.

Also announced at the same press conference was the signing of some big guy with 4 titles and countless nicknames who will get some minutes at center.

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LA Lakers A Long Way From Repeating

2010-08-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

Despite Miami Heat guard Dwayne Wade’s utterance that the Los Angeles Lakers are the favorites to repeat as NBA champions, Kobe Bryant’s team shouldn’t just be handed the trophy now. The road as a defending champion is always longer and more difficult than the previous one.

There are more expectations and thus more pressure. The mentality of fans is “If the Los Angeles Lakers won the title last year and kept every significant piece on their roster, why can’t they do it again?”

The answer is twofold. For one thing, a bullseye is inevitably placed on the back of each defending champion. It’s now squarely affixed between the numbers of the purple and gold jerseys. Especially on the back of Kobe Bryant’s 24.

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Detroit Pistons, Tracy McGrady agree on one-year deal

2010-08-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

It's funny how life sometimes comes full circle.

One of Tracy McGrady's biggest playoff disappointments happened at the Palace 7 years ago.

And now he might get a chance to redeem himself, with the Palace serving as the backdrop.

Tracy McGrady, an unrestricted free agent, agreed to a one-year, $1.2 million veteran's minimum contract with the Detroit Pistons Tuesday. He joins the now shooting guard/swingman heavy roster with starters Tayshaun Prince and Rip Hamilton.

Trades may happen down the road with Prince and Hamilton, but only Pistons president Joe Dumars knows the big picture.

For now, back to McGrady's disappointment.

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'The Mailman' Karl Malone always delivered

2010-08-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame already has a former postmaster general. Now it has a Mailman.

Karl Malone, known as “The Mailman,” is part of the class of 2010. He earned his nickname because “he delivered.”

When he joins the Hall, Karl Malone will take his place among the game’s greats and contributors, including Springfield’s native son Larry O’Brien, who served as commissioner of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1975 to 1984 and was president John Kennedy’s postmaster general. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1991, the year after he died.

Karl Malone, 47, was a Utah Jazz power forward and will also be enshrined as part of the 1992 U.S. Olympic team. Malone, a two-time NBA MVP, was an All-Star in 14 of his 19 seasons and led the Jazz to the NBA Finals in 1997 and 1998. The second-leading scorer in NBA history, Karl Malone finished his career in 2004 with 36,928 points.

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Will Shaquille O’Neal take Boston Celtics to another championship title?

2010-08-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

NBA: Will Shaquille O’Neal takes Boston Celtics to another championship title?

The Los Angeles Lakers is a team that is cherished by the basketball nation and is given the highest regard for procuring the top most elite players and nurturing them into world class championship winners for more than 50 years. Till date LA Lakers have remained a consistent franchise, reeling in more fans by the end of each year. It is a franchise with such a strong aura that whoever enters it does not want to leave.

However there were those who took the daring step and opted out; Shaquille O’Neal is one of those audacious players. According to media speculation he wanted to leave the team because he did not like sharing his stardom with fellow team mate Kobe Bryant which led to a heated brawl between the two.

He departed from the LA Lakers to join the Miami Heat along with superstar Dwyane Wade, although he was able to lead the team to win a championship title adding to his 4th title. He soon left the team after an alleged feud with the head coach Pat Riley in 2008. Basketball purists believe any chance Shaquille O’Neal had of building a dynasty was finished after he left the Lakers.

Shaquille O’Neal has suffered since he left the Lakers, joining Miami Heat followed by 2 other teams, Phoenix Suns and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The All-Star could have teamed up with LeBron James and win another championship ring, unfortunately the opposite happened. Shaquille O’Neal scored only 11.5 points per game in this year’s playoffs making his lowest score average ever.

Shaquille O’Neal hit the free-agency market this year after the playoffs; the once remarkable player was now a desperate player who nobody wanted to sign. The ‘Big Diesel’ is now 38 years old and is hungry for another title, rumours had it he wanted to go back to the Miami Heat and join the freshly formed All-Star trio including Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh.

The 7’1” big man was struggling to a find a team this season that will welcome him aboard and give him the same respect he once got in the Los Angeles Lakers, but nobody seemed interested in the aging star. However two days ago something happened that no sports analyst or basketball pundit had predicted, Shaquille O’Neal was signed on by the legendary team Boston Celtics. He was given a 2 year contract worth $3 million, proving the fact that Shaquille O’Neal is extremely concerned about his legacy and the fact that his former teammate, now rival Kobe Bryant has one more Championship title than him.

Accepting a minimum wage contract, putting his ego aside is as likely as the world is going to end in 2012. An ego so big that he left 2 teams because he could not cope with his former teammates, an ego so big that has left him delusional thinking he has another shot to the title.

Shaquille O’Neal has once again created hype in the NBA; his presence in the Boston Celtics has led many to believe he could now actually embed his name deeper into the league. With Kevin Garnett returning to the team after a successful knee surgery followed by star veteran players like Paul Peirce, Ray Allen, experts say the Diesel actually has a shot at winning another title.

It is no secret that Shaquille O’Neal is the oldest player in the league and deteriorating as days go by. Nevertheless, it is a fact that he once was one of the top most scorers in the NBA, and was also one of the most dominating centers in the NBA history. Basketball pundits say you never know the old fiery Shaquille O’Neal may get back into action and grab the Boston Celtics reigns taking them to the upcoming championship. The MVP recently told press he still has a year or two left in him, that statement will be proven true or false in the upcoming match vs. Miami heat which takes place on 26th October 2010. So fasten your seatbelts NBA fanatics because it is going to be one hell of a battle.

Former Cavaliers superstar LeBron James says thank you to Cleveland, Akron | NBA

2010-08-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

AKRON, Ohio — LeBron James climbed on a bicycle Saturday morning and fastened his safety helmet.

Perhaps surprisingly, he didn't need it. The only people who turned out for James' fifth annual "King for Kids Bikeathon" in downtown Akron were the ones who continue to love their hometown hero.

Wearing a red "Enjoy Akron" shirt and shorts, the 25-year-old LeBron James pedaled down Main Street to cheers from a crowd that was significantly smaller than in years past, but the day was without any major protests or disturbances.

It was the first public appearance in Akron for the 2-time league most valuable player since he left the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat last month — a decision that left much of Northeast Ohio feeling hurt and betrayed.

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NBA : Who will win Boston Celtics or the Miami Heat?

2010-08-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

NBA : Who will win Boston Celtics or the Miami Heat?

The Boston Celtics, defending Eastern Conference champions, are scheduled to play vs. the Miami Heat on 26th of October 2010; as if the Heat’s newly formed trio was not enough of a juncture.

This year was tough for the Boston Celtics as they lost the playoffs to the LA Lakers in the last 5 minutes followed by their star player Kevin Garnett getting injured and Paul Pierce’s contract ending. The Boston Celtics fans feared deeply that the team was on the verge of breaking but who thought the tables would turn once again.

Kevin Garnett reportedly had a successful knee surgery and plans on returning to the court soon while Paul Pierce extended his contract and the biggest news ever since the Miami Heat trio was formed is, Shaquille O’Neal announced on the Celtics official site that he is ecstatic to join the team.

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The Los Angeles Clippers Point Guard Situation

2010-08-01T00:43:00.000-07:00

The Clippers currently have two point guards on their roster. One is Baron Davis and the other is rookie Eric Bledsoe. For now, we have to assume that Baron Davis will be the starter and that Eric Bledsoe will back him up, but it is possible that it could change. Baron Davis is already 31 years old and could start to show his age.

Baron Davis will likely starts to decline steadily within the next couple of years and the Clippers have put themselves in a perfect situation to let Eric Bledsoe slowly start to take over some of Baron Davis' duties.

Eric Bledsoe played for John Calipari at Kentucky last year alongside John Wall. This is important because Bledsoe played primarily off the ball while he was there.

It may be tougher for Bledsoe to transition to the point guard in the NBA than other players who had been playing the position in college. Bledsoe had been impressive in workouts and looked good against other point guards, but questions remain about his ability to play the point at the next level.

Although Bledsoe playing off the ball in college can be a bad thing it could also be a good thing. If they feel that he is ready to play right away, they could also give him minutes alongside Baron Davis at shooting guard.

Like I said, Eric Bledsoe has experience playing off the ball and could contribute at shooting guard. If Eric Bledsoe can become a true combo guard in the NBA he would be able to see more time on the court in his first couple of seasons.

With only two point guards on the roster one may think that the Clippers should try to sign another guard just for depth and injury insurance however, the Clippers have shown no interest in doing so.

There are several veteran point guards on the market that could be of use for the Clippers, but at this point it seems that they will either sign their second round pick Willie Warren or just keep two point guards.

I expect Baron Davis to get most of the minutes this year and next year, but after that depending on Bledsoe's development rate, he could get the job. The Clippers have a great point guard duo this year, and it looks like they are poised to succeed for year's to come.

Grabbing Eric Bledsoe was an excellent move for the Clippers. He fits well into the team and it is a perfect opportunity. He may not overwhelm people immediately he should be a solid contributor in a few years.

New York Knicks Star Amare Stoudemire in Israel

2010-07-31T08:36:00.000-07:00

Amare Stoudemire is presently in Israel. As you might now, he has a tattoo of a Star of David and actually knows some Hebrew phrases. And now he wants to explore his potential Jewish roots.

On his week-long trip, the 5-time NBA all-star, Stoudemire, who just signed with the New York Knicks, plans on learning more about Israel’s language and religion. He stated that he thinks he inherited Hebrew roots through his mother Carrie.

As he explained to the Associated Press (AP) on Friday, his mother studied the history and the scriptures and believes that she is a Hebrew. He went on to explain that he was raised in a very spiritual home and said that to him, the whole thing is not about religion but rather spirituality.

Bloggers in Israel are excited about Stoudemire’s interest and expressed hopes that he may end up joining the Israeli national team. The 6-foot-10 Knicks forward, though, laughed that off and said he intends to play in the 2012 for the US.

Siena's Kenny Hasbrouck to Sign with NBA Miami Heat

2010-07-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Kenny Hasbrouck has always been focused on the NBA.

The Siena grad didn't even want to talk about playing overseas until he first gave the NBA everything he had.

That effort is now paying off.

Tomorrow, Hasbrouck will sign a contract with the Miami Heat a deal that will put him in training camp with all-stars Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh.

The deal, which could pay Kenny upwards of $200,000, is not guaranteed until December 1st.

"I am grateful for it to finally happen, to finally put my name on the paper where I know I am going to be secure for at least a couple months. So, it's good." Kenny Hasbrouck told FOX23 during his visit back to Siena College today.

Kenny Hasbrouck was Miami's leading scorer in the Vegas Summer League averaging 13.6 PPG to go with 2.4 RPG and 2.4 APG in 5 games.

Los Angeles Lakers snap up NBA veteran Matt Barnes

2010-07-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

The London-bound Los Angeles Lakers have added veteran small forward Matt Barnes to an already impressive roster.

Matt Barnes, a free agent after a season at fellow title-contenders the Orlando Magic, signed a two-year deal with the defending NBA champions.

The 30-year-old is a tough, talented defender and also shoots fine from beyond the three-point line. He averaged 8.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last season in Orlando.

The former Los Angeles Clipper is the Lakers’ third signing of the summer after the team added veteran centre Theo Ratfliff and veteran point guard Steve Blake.

The LA Lakers head to London on October 4 to take on the Minnesota Timberwolves at the O2 Arena as part of NBA Europe Live.

Kobe Bryant has surgery on right knee

2010-07-25T08:54:00.000-07:00

Kobe Bryant has surgery on right knee.

Kobe Bryant has had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee and is expected to be fully recovered by September 25.

The two times defending NBA Finals MVP had the procedure last week and is currently undergoing rehab to be ready prior to the start of the Lakers' training camp.

Last season, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to a second-straight NBA title despite a number of niggling injuries throughout the team's championship run.

Kobe Bryant still managed over 29 points per game during the 2010 NBA Playoffs but it is his influence on teammates which also makes him such an invaluable player for the LA Lakers now.

LA Lakers point guard Derek Fisher recently revealed that it was Bryant who played a big role in his decision to re-sign with the team.

"I definitely feel like I made the right decision," Derek Fisher said.

"Kobe and I worked extremely hard to be in a position where we’re now in our careers. Obviously he is much more accomplished than I am, but we have a bond that I just didn't want to break. I think we can lead our team to another championship this season and that was a big motivating factor."

Derek Fisher said he "seriously considered" his other free agency options before ultimately choosing the LA Lakers based on a few factors including his relationship with Kobe Bryant, the community and the city of Los Angeles.

Welcome to NBA champions

2010-07-07T00:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome to NBA champions.......