Bulls Hold Off Suns to Win, 112-107 at Home

Saturday night the Chicago Bulls needed everyone to earn the win.  Taj Gibson and Aaron Brooks of the second unit came up big in the early fourth quarter to take the lead against the Phoenix Suns.

Then Derrick Rose made some of his patented driving layups to cement a hard fought 112-107 win against the re-vamped Suns. Brandon Knight, the quick guard who was recently acquired from Milwaukee, makes Phoenix a faster team, that likes to pressure on offense. They are quick and athletic and can get up the court and spread the ball out or drive to the hoop in seconds.

It almost worked against the Bulls, but Chicago had just enough in the fourth quarter. The Bulls ( 25-11) now lead Cleveland by a game in the Central Division. The win ups their home court record to 16-11. The Bulls outscored the Suns 31-24, in the final quarter and that was the difference.

Chicago played better than their debacle recently in Detroit. They showed much more ball movement, improved shooting, and greater focus. Pau Gasol had another double-double, 22 points and 14 rebounds to lead Chicago. Jimmy Butler had 19 points. Rose had 16 points, with some key points in the fourth quarter. Mike Dunleavy had 15 points in his best game since returning to the starting lineup. Taj Gibson played another strong game off the bench, going for 10 points and 8 rebounds.  Joakim Noah did the little things to help the team win, with 12 rebounds, 8 assists and 3 points. Actually, his 8 assists were a team high.

Phoenix had 6 players score in double-figures. Forward P.J. Tucker had a team high 20 points. Marcus Morris, one of the Morris twins, had 17 points. Eric Bledsoe almost had a triple-double with 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists. Phoenix lost despite shooting almost 53% from the floor.

However, the Bulls displayed greater resolve. They played like they wanted this win.

Coach Tom Thibodeau spoke to the media on the revelation that Derrick Rose missed a team practice on Wednesday before the Pistons game.

"Sometimes things like that do happen and you have to deal with it as best you can," said Thibodeau. The Bulls coach said handling this would be an "internal matter."

Read More

Bulls Falls To Suns 99-93 In Phoenix

The rigors of NBA life on the road. The Lakers game ended late because it went to 2 OT's, and the Chicago Bulls lost a tough one.  Then they flew on to Phoenix and didn't arrive to their hotel till 3:30 AM, Friday with a game looming that night. With not nearly enough time to heal the aches and tiredness of the night before, the game must go on.

The Bulls ran into a waiting fast paced team that was ready to play on the Bulls being tired. That the Bulls made it close, is a plus.  However, they didn't get the W as Phoenix had just enough to beat back Chicago, 99-93.

Derrick Rose scored 23, Jimmy Butler 22, and Aaron Brooks, 21 and that wasn't enough to come away with a victory.  The Bulls shot 41.4%, were out-rebounded 50-49, and only hit 17-27 from the FT line.

Pau Gasol played well on tired legs, going for 10 points and 19 rebounds in 35+ minutes.  Rose only made 8 of 23 shots and was 0 for 6 from three point land.

The Suns got strong games from their backcourt: Erick Bledsoe and Gordon Drajic combined for 44 points. Markieff Morris had a double-double for Phoenix scoring 12 and grabbing 14 points.

The mystery of the game is why did Coach Thibodeau play TaJ Gibson only 21:37 minutes?  He scored 4 points, well below his season average.  Is Gibson hurt too?  It seems like everyone on the Bulls is.

Bull fans hope Jimmy Butler and Rose are okay after that Lakers game. Dunleavy has been out and he is a factor in scoring from the outside, grabbing rebounds and spreading the floor.

Chicago's loss put Cleveland right in the race for the Division and Conference standings. The Cavs won their 9th game in a row to fall within nudging distance of Chicago. The Cavs were out of the discussion with their losing streak and LeBron's injury but they have weathered both, and are winning.

If anything, the Bulls need the break on the upcoming All-Star Game Weekend.

Read More

5 Potential Busts of 2014 NBA Draft

The 2014 NBA Draft was one of the more loaded drafts in recent memory. There were franchise changing players at the top, with plenty of strong players following right behind. While there are plenty of good players in the draft, there undoubtedly will be some that fall short of expectations. Here are some potential busts from the 2014 NBA Draft.

Aaron Gordon, Forward, Arizona: Gordon is as athletic as they come in this class, but that is about all that he has going for him currently. Like so many of the players who grew up playing AAU basketball, Gordon does not have a true position, being labeled a tweener at small forward and power forward.

Associated Press

Gordon was a top-prospect in this draft, and he falls into the bust category more because of where he was drafted and selected before. It was the first surprise of the draft that he was taken ahead of Julius Randle, Marcus Smart, Dante Exum and Noah Vonleh. When you are selected ahead of players expected to excel at the level those are, you better bring your A game.

Gordon has some ways to go on both ends of the court, and is joining a team he will have every opportunity to showcase himself. The Magic though are currently loaded at the forward positions, so Gordon will have to prove himself worthy of the minutes as he will be facing plenty of competition.

Nik Stauskas, Shooting Guard, Michigan: This pick for bust has less to do with the player, and more to do with the team he was selected by. Stauskas is joining a team that is in flux with its roster, trying to figure out who is in their long term plans and who to move on to. Not to mention the Sacramento Kings first round pick from 2013 is a shooting guard in Ben McLemore.

Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Stauskas can score the ball offensively, but he may not have a good chance to do it with the Kings. Getting lost in the shuffle is something Stauskas should be very worried about as players such as Rudy Gay and Travis Outlaw will be playing minutes at the same position as Stauskas in addition to McLemore. The track record the Kings have with first round picks make Stauskas a candidate to be a bust.

Tyler Ennis, Point Guard, Syracuse: Ennis is a bust candidate because he does not fit the mold of where the NBA is heading at the position. He is a smart player, but it is hard to imagine him being able to consistently stick with the super-athletes that are filling up the point guard position now.

Mark Konezny - USA TODAY Sports

He is also not a strong shooter, something teams need from their point guards. Last season at Syracuse Ennis shot only 41 percent from the field and 35 percent from the three point line. Those are numbers he must improve upon at the NBA-level to have any success; NBA teams cannot afford to have a player that offers nothing offensively on the court, especially when your defense is as in question as Ennis’ is.

Ennis also falls onto this list because of how things are looking with the Phoenix Suns. The Suns signed Isaiah Thomas from the Kings in free agency, further pushing Ennis down the depth chart. They already have breakout player Goran Dragic on the team, and are in contract negotiations with Eric Bledsoe to bring him back as well. Ennis could very well be the fourth string point guard heading into the season, firmly placing him on the bench with the bust label.

Josh Huestis, Power Forward, Stanford: It is not Huestis’ fault that he was selected in the first round by the Oklahoma City Thunder, but like all other players he needs to be judged by his draft selection, and he has bust written all over him. Huestis is known more for his rebounding and defense, something that is not always appreciated when it comes to evaluating draft prospects.

David Butler II - USA TODAY Sports

Huestis was also not expected to be in the mix as a first round pick, so expectations are automatically heightened for him. Getting selected to a team like the Thunder gives you time to develop your skills, but there are a slew of players ahead of Huestis currently on the roster, and playing time will be hard to come by. He also has to contend with fellow first round draft pick Mitch McGary

Huestis has a long road ahead of him to crack the rotation and get minutes with the Thunder this season. He is destined for a spot in the D-League this upcoming year.

Bruno Caboclo, Small Forward, Brazil: There is not much known about Caboclo other than he is the Brazilian Kevin Durant. ESPN international scout Fran Fraschilla also said that he was two years away from being two years away, meaning Caboclo is nowhere near ready to contribute to the Toronto Raptors.

Dave Abel/Toronto Sun/QMI Agency

Caboclo it has been said will be a part of the NBA roster, but it is hard to imagine him giving much positive to the Raptors. He is an extremely raw basketball player, and could be stapled to the Raptors bench for many seasons to come. Like Huestis, it is not Caboclo’s fault that he was selected where he was, but he will be judged with where he was selected.

The Raptors would have been better off getting another wing such as Rodney Hood, Jordan Adams or P.J. Hairston, all three of which were selected after Caboclo.

Read More

Prospect Examination: Noah Vonleh

"I’m looking out on the floor," Head Coach of Northwestern Chris Collins said. "and they got a guy who’s going to be a top 10 pick in this year’s draft."

You've heard about the best freshmen in college basketball like Andrew Wiggins, Julius Randle, Tyler Ennis, Jabari Parker and Joel Embiid but I bet you probably haven't heard about Indiana freshmen forward Noah Vonleh. Vonleh is the first freshmen from Indiana to go "one-and-done" since New Orleans Pelicans guard Eric Gordon during the 2007-2008 season. The 18-year old is expected to be a lottery pick with no significant achievements in his freshmen season. When he announced he declaration for the draft he acknowledged how his team didn't make the tournament for the first time since 2011.

"It's going to suck leaving college without an NCAA Tournament," Vonleh said. "But I have to do what's best for me."

Just like any other freshmen that is dominant in college, he was expected to enter the 2014 NBA Draft. The 6'10" 240-pound 2013 McDonald's All-American was hoping to follow the footsteps of last years Indiana alumni Victor Oladipo (No. 2) of the Orlando Magic and Cody Zeller (No. 4) of the Charlotte Bobcats and as recently stated he'll most likely be a lottery selection. 

"I've heard the fourth pick to the 12th pick is wide open," Vonleh said. "[I think I'll be selected] anywhere in that range."

In his only season with the Hoosiers, he averaged 11.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks on 52.3% (FG%), 48.5% (3P%) and 71.6% (FT%). In the final four games of his college career he averaged 15.4 points and 11.8 rebounds which were all against unranked teams. He put up decent stats against ranked teams but failed in comparison to what he did against those without a rank.

The Indiana Hoosiers were 17-15 this season, but a struggling team like that didn't stop Vonleh from his performance and a reason why some scouts are high on him is because he was only part of the teams offensive possessions 22% of the time and put up decent stats. With room to improve into a possible All-Star or good role player with the he was utilized in college he would definitely be a bigger part on a NBA roster.

From his High School senior to the conclusion of his freshmen year his body has shown improvement as he went from about 210-pounds to 240, grew two inches from 6'8" to 6'10" and now has a 7'3" wingspan which makes him a great shot-blocker and will help him with rebounding if he can add to his aggressiveness that'll help him in the long run. With his size and height whomever he is drafted by he will be able to play power forward along with center and be used in small lineups.

Like any other athlete he has his strengths and weaknesses, one of his major weaknesses is his size as he must bulk up, but his main strength is his rebounding ability as he averaged 9.0 per game and had 13 games with 10+ rebounds in 30 games played which also led his conference which was the Big 10. Watching Vonleh play many people have noticed that he is a hustler on the court is willing to dive for extra possessions showing that he is a team player. It's very surprising to see a young stud like him being a team player because typically it's unheard of at that age, he's also known as being a well-coached athlete and that will help coaches and trainers in helping Vonleh reach if full-potential in the NBA.  

Defensively he's pretty good as his defensive win shares were 2.0 which was good enough for second in the Big 10, Defensive rating was 91.7 which ranked I'm 4th in his conference. Vonleh is good enough to get drafted into an exclusive club of 400+ but the question is, Can he stay in the league and improve? Vonleh is for certain a work in project and it should surprise anyone if he spends some time in the D-league. He needs to work on his post game and jump shot since most of his points came around the basket and rarely from outside; he has shown signs of the potential of becoming a good shooter as he was 16-33 this season from the 3-point line and in a game in which more players, teams and big-men are going behind the line, Vonleh will become useful their.

"I think I proved that I’ve got a pretty good skill set," Vonleh said. "I can step out, shoot threes. My post game has gotten a lot better, still a work in progress. I can still improve on it. I can still improve on a lot of things in my shot, getting my release quicker, being able to push the dribble out and do different things like that, just to make myself an overall better player."

There is doubt that Vonleh has the assets to become a solid player in the league and have a defined role, don't expect him to be a difference make until his 3rd or 4th season as I expect he will struggle his first two. What will become interesting is if he's taken before Kentucky freshmen power forward, Julius Randle.

"He'll spend a lot of time in the D-League next year," A NBA general manager said. "He's nowhere near ready to play, but there's no doubt he's got great potential, along with very good character."

NBA Comparisons: Tristan Thompson, Arnett Moultrie & Ed Davis

Best fits: Los Angeles Lakers, Philadplhia 76ers, Orlando Magic & Phoenix Suns

Twitter: @NBAFLASHNEWS

Facebook: NBAFLASHNEWS

Instagram: NBAFLASHNEWS 

Read More

Knicks Routed By Suns in Phoenix

By Kenneth Teape (@teapester725)

Friday, March 28^th, 2014

New York Knicks vs. Phoenix Suns

Post Game Recap

For the second time on this west coast trip, the New York Knicks inexplicably no showed. This time it was against a team that had something to play for still in the Phoenix Suns, and the end result was a 112-88 massacre. The game was never really close, as the Suns got off to a scorching start and never let up on a Knicks team who just didn’t have it tonight on either end of the court. The Knicks once again lost out on a golden opportunity to close the gap between them and the Atlanta Hawks, now sitting two games behind them for eighth place in the Eastern Conference once again. The Knicks will be back on the court Sunday night against the Golden State Warriors.

Player of the Game: None

It is becoming a troubling trend that the Knicks are playing so poorly there is no player worth naming as the player of the game. It was a rough game for everyone on both ends of the court.

AP Photo/Matt York

-Positive

Carmelo Anthony, Amar’e Stoudemire and Iman Shumpert shot 50-plus percent from the field. The game was that bad that the only positive that can be taken from it was that three players made at least half their shots. Anthony scored 21, Stoudemire scored 19 in his return to the first place he called home in his NBA career, and Shumpert scored seven. Shannon Brown was able to knock down three of his five shots in garbage time as well, scoring six points.

-Negatives

Raymond Felton was lit up once again without much effort being put towards it. It is has been such a regular throughout the season it is almost a waste giving him a section of the article every post game. Goran Dragic torched him, shooting 11-17 from the field en route to a game-high 32 points. His eyes lit up whenever Felton was across from him, scoring in a number of ways including transition and from beyond the three-point line.

How the Knicks played so poorly offensively against a team that doesn’t really want to play defense is unexplainable. The Suns defend the three-point line well, but they are easily attacked in the paint without a real rim protector. The Knicks must not have gotten that memo, scoring only 24 points in the paint for the game. Overall, they shot 40.2 percent and 32 percent from the three point line.

It was double-trouble for the Knicks tonight, as the Morris twins, Markieff and Marcus, destroyed them throughout the night. They took it to the Knicks, combining for 25 points, 13 rebounds, two assists, one steal and two blocks. They dominated the Knicks big men, namely Tyson Chandler. Chandler got into with them during the game, which has become his MO when the Knicks get blown out. Chandler finished the game with one point and seven rebounds.

The Suns put on an aerial assault from the three point line and in transition, putting on a show for their fans. They knocked down 14 three pointers in the game, and 26 points in transition. The Suns also took advantage of the Knicks turnovers, scoring 25 points off of 13 turnovers. The Suns made the most of the opportunities given to them, while the Knicks watched as bystanders and were run off the court. 

Read More

W2W4: Phoenix Suns vs Brooklyn Nets March 17th, 2014

By Nick Ziegler (@Ziggy26x)

March 17th, 2014

W2W4: Phoenix Suns vs. Brooklyn Nets

Pre Game News and Notes

barclayscenter.com

The Brooklyn Nets will be back home after a tough loss to the Wizards in Washington on Saturday night, as on Monday they will be hosting one of the biggest surprises in the NBA in the Phoenix Suns, who are coming off a win against the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. The Nets head into Monday’s game with a (33-31) record, which is 3.5 games behind the Raptors in the Atlantic Division.

Match-Up of the Game: Goran Dragic vs. Deron Williams

The Suns were supposed to be NBA’s worst teams this year, but with the great play from their Point Guard Goran Dragic, they are looking like a possible playoff team. Dragic is coming into Monday’s game averaging 20.5 points, 6.1 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. For Deron Williams he will have his hands full with Dragic, as Williams has struggled a lot in the last two games besides one clutch shot in Miami. In the loss to the Wizards, who have a great Point Guard in John Wall, Williams shot just four of 14 from the field.

- Home-Court

In the Barclays Center the Nets have been very good especially of late, and with a nice opportunity to gain a half of game against the Raptors, it makes Monday an important game. The Suns proved most recently on Sunday that they can win on the East Coast, as they scored 121 points against the Raptors, but as the Nets know second half of back to backs can be tricky for a team. The Suns are sitting one game behind the Memphis Grizzlies in the ultra tough Western Conference, so every game means a lot to them if they are going to get into the eighth seed.

- Make It Nine

Kevin Garnett will be missing his ninth straight game for the Nets due to back spasms, so once again it will be Mason Plumlee in the starting lineup. Mason won’t be the only Plumlee in the game, as his brother Miles is on the Suns, and playing very well for them. Mason’s brother Miles is averaging 8.5 points, and 8.1 rebounds per game. It is likely the two brothers will be guarding each other a bit in this game, which should be fun to see who wins that battle.

Read More

NBA Players That Have Revived Or Saved Their Careers

Written By Clevis Murray 

For years the NBA has been filled with great feel good stories which have included comebacks, redemption and sacrifice.  An example of this is a player who hops around from team to team and is eventually out of the league but through dedication and hard work the player makes a grand return and upon that return has a better understanding of the NBA and that the league is simply not for everyone.  More appreciation for the league is born as he now knows that he’s blessed to be a part of it and that millions of men would kill to be in his position.  The Players mentioned below are the perfect example of feel good stories due to having seen their promising careers diminish for a variety of reasons and then finally witnessing their redemption through hard work and in some cases life style changes.

Gerald Green, G/F, Phoenix Suns:

Gerald Green was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 18th pick in the 2005 NBA Draft and became known around the league for his dunking ability. Dunking makes you popular among fans but not among GMs and scouts as they look for more in a player. Green showed signs of becoming a great NBA player since he gained comparisons to then Houston Rockets star G/F Tracy McGrady, but since Boston he would go on to make stops in Minnesota, Dallas, Houston, New Jersey, Indiana, and a few overseas and D-league teams and now has landed in Phoenix. Green has been on 11 teams NBA and overseas combined within a 10 year span. Now with Phoenix the 28-year old is having the best season of his career and might've found a home in the valley of the sun as he is now averaging 15.6 points (career-high), 3.5 rebounds (career-high), 1.6 assists (career-high) and 28.9 minutes (career-high) and recently had 41 points (career-high) and 8 3-pointers (career-high) against OKC. He also has a 16.4 Player Efficiency Rating which is 14th among SGs. The injury to Eric Bledsoe has been a blessing to Green as he seen a opportunity and took and is now part of the rotation and will be a key contributor in the playoffs for Phoenix. 

Danny Green, G/F, San Antonio Spurs:

Danny Green had a pretty good collegiate career at UNC and was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 46th pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. During his rookie year with the Cavaliers he was more known for his dancing skills on the bench than his in-game production and saw stints in the D-league. In 2010 he was signed by the Spurs and eventually waived by the team and returned to the D-league. The Spurs would go on to yet again re-sign him and sent him back to the D-league, he also played overseas during the lockout of 2011 before it ended. Green looked like he was heading out the league but when the Spurs gave him a second chance he took it and ran with it as he averaged 10.5 points that season and gained a reputation around the league as one of the best 3-point shooters. Green was a key part for the Spurs in their run to the finals last season and was a killer beyond the arc in the series against Miami as he set a NBA record with 27 made 3s. Green took his play in the finals to inspire him as he said "Great experience, definitely a confidence-booster for sure. It let me know I can play on this level, pretty much on any level."

Michael Beasley, F, Miami Heat:

Coming out of college Michael Beasley was regarded as one of the best freshmen during the 2000s since he averaged 26.2 points and 12.4 rebounds during his only season at Kansas State and would go on to be drafted by the Miami Heat with the No.2 pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. Beasley was off to a great start to his career in his first two seasons but off the court he was a mess with drug problems, suicidal thoughts and rehab. Back in 2008 during the NBA's Rookie Symposium Beasley was with Darell Arthur and Mario Chalmers in a room full of women and weed, eventually the police appeared to have handled their business but what some might or might now know is the Beasley somehow escaped the room leaving his friends to fend for themselves and after news was reported about the incident ESPN had written up a article about it but for some odd reason withdrew Beasley's name from it which left many people dumbfounded as to why. The NBA would go on to fine Beasley $50K while Arthur and Chalmers were fined $20K. Pat Riley would eventually convince Beasley to admit that he was in the room with the two other players. Beasley would go on to make stops in Minnesota and Phoenix, he said Phoenix would be a new start for him but was waived due to marijuana charges. Each place he had been he had a drug related problem and after being released by the Suns he was at the lowest point of his career until the Miami Heat signed him and since then he has had no problems and is becoming a key contributor to the team in his limited time on the court and will show folks why he was drafted so high back in '08.

Thomas Robinson, F/C, Portland Trail Blazers:

Coming out of Kansas after his junior year he was the 2012 Big 12 Player of the Year and the AP Big 12 Player of the Year. Robinson showed drastic improvement each season in college and exploded as a NBA prospect his junior year and at the conclusion of that season he declared for the draft. He would go on to be drafted by the Sacramento Kings with the 5th pick in 2012 and was thought of as the next big thing and the future of Sacramento and personally I thought he was a future star in the league. In Sacramento he struggled and just a mere 51 games into his career he was traded to the Houston Rockets and played there for 19 games before being traded to Portland in the summer. Robinson was now on his 3rd NBA team in two seasons but has recreated himself with the Blazers and is motivated this season because of what happen his rookie year saying "I never felt this disrespected as a basketball player." He is a key player to the Blazers surprise season coming off the bench and with his 14.29 Player Efficiency Rating (PER) and is also averaging 13.9 points and 12.8 rebounds per 36 minutes with 1 block and with stats like those if he actually played 36 minutes a game, he would easily be mentioned in the same sentence with other Power Forwards but for now in Portland he's like Kenneth Faried and is a very athletic, strong and intense player. Robinson has been a great surprise but those who have followed his story appreciate his success since his mother and grandparents passed away a few years ago.

Greg Oden, C, Miami Heat:

When he was coming out of Ohio State he gained comparisons to Bill Russell and Shaquille O'Neal and was the No.1 pick by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2007. Before he made his NBA debut Greg Oden needed microfracture surgery on his right knee and was done for the 2007-2008 season. In his NBA debut Oden suffered a foot injury and was out two weeks then he would go on to suffer a left knee injury and miss three weeks. In 2009 he underwent surgery to repair a fractured left patella which required microfracture surgery on his left knee and would miss the remainder of that season. Oden would go on to have two more surgeries, one on each knee and was eventually waived by Portland. When he played he was a very productive but was just injury prone. Oden reached a low point in his life but found motivation and would go on to sign with the Miami Heat and play his first NBA game since 2009. Miami is currently bringing Oden back slowly but steadily as they aren't rushing him back giving him all the time he needs and this season he has been productive in limited minutes and will become a key contributor during the playoffs.

Chris Andersen, C, Miami Heat:

"The Birdman" aka Chris Andersen has become one of the best shot blockers in the NBA but before that he hopped around the league as his professional career started overseas and then to the D-league. Andersen wouldn't actually play a NBA game until 2001. Everything was good for him until 2006 when he was kicked out of the league due to testing positive to a banned substance and the league called it drug abuse. Andersen was reinstated back into the NBA in 2008 and eventually released by New Orleans. "The Birdman" became known during his tenure and second stint with the Denver Nuggets in which he finished second in the league in blocks and also helped the team advance to the Western Conference Finals in 2009. He would eventually be amnestied by Denver in 2012 but in 2013 he was signed by Miami and part of their 27 game win-streak and were 37-3 when he played. He would become a key member to the Heat becoming the 2013 NBA champions and is still a key contributor now and has been out of the media for the wrong reasons until he was wrongly accused of child pornography, personation, extortion which made him the victim of a hoax and was "catfished", he called the case "Manti Te'o on steroids." Besides that he's being himself despite sadly cutting his infamous Mohawk.

P.J. Tucker, F, Phoenix Suns:

You may or may not have heard of P.J. Tucker, but he has become one of the toughest players in the NBA. Tucker was originally drafted by the Toronto Raptors in 2006 with the 35th pick. He only played 83 minutes with Toronto and was eventually waived by the team and would go on to be out the NBA for five years. Tucker made stops in the D-league but most played overseas. Now think about this real quick, Tucker was not given a opportunity in the NBA and was out for five years, not many young men would have the determination and hard work to continue to follow their dreams but he did and in 2012 he was signed by the Phoenix Suns, he had a good first season with Phoenix and unlike many NBA players , Tucker had volunteered to be part of the Suns 2013 summer league team. This season he is averaging 9.3 points (career-high) and 6.5 rebounds (career-high). February 8th, 2014 he had his best game as a pro when he finished the game against GSW with 16 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 steals and would also have another game with 16 rebounds. Tucker has become known around the league for his work ethic and tenacious defense with his built and has also become a great rotation player for Phoenix as they continue to surprise this season.

Andray Blatche, F/C, Brooklyn Nets:

Andray Blatche was drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2005 with the 49th pick and in his tenure with the team was pretty good but in April of 2010 he desperately tried to get a triple-double against the New Jersey Nets. In the closing seconds of the game he fought for his 10th rebound but became mad because a foul was called, became mad at Cartier Martin for not letting him grab the rebound which would've gave him the triple-double, when JaVale McGee went to the free-throw line he asked Yi Jianlian if he could let him get the rebound just incase McGee missed, when McGee made the free-throw Blatche ran down the court hoping that Devin Harris would miss the layup but didn't and lastly with 4.2 second left, Blatche demanded the ball and ran the length of the court to miss a shot and get his 10th rebound but failed. Blatche would go on to receive much criticism for his actions. With the Wizards he was benched due to conditioning and eventually amnestied, he also said the Wizards tried to end his career. Moving forward, Blatche received a chance with the Brooklyn Nets and hasn't been a problem since signing the franchise.

Xavier Henry, G/F, Los Angeles Lakers:

Coming out of Kansas Henry was thought of as being the next Joe Johnson or Paul Pierce but his career and skill set hasn't really sent him in the direction of those All-Star, he was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 12th pick in 2010. Henry had sparse production while with Memphis and with the Hornets along with seeing time in the D-league. While with Memphis Henry gained slight criticism from his father Carl as he said "He’s going to do everything the coach tells him to do. And I think that’s his biggest downfall" and former teammate had some advice for Henry when he said "At that point in your career, people are going to say things about you and you’ve just got to stick to your guns, get better every day, and prove people wrong." Henry's first three seasons in the NBA made him look like a bust but when he signed with the LA Lakers and revived his career, in his debut he had a career-high 22 points and is also averaging a career-high 10 points per game. Right now he's currently in the D-league rehabbing from a nagging knee injury. Not many people know this but Xavier almost played overseas instead of college basketball but he seen the success in which most players that did had in the NBA and detected that idea.

Kendall Marshall, G, Los Angeles Lakers: 

Kendall Marshall was thought of as the next true Point Guard when the Phoenix Suns drafted him with the 13th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft from UNC. Marshall had a tumultuous rookie season with Phoenix in which he only appeared in 48 games while averaging 14.6 minutes per game (MPG) and spent time in the D-league. Phoenix would go on to trade Marshall the next season to Washington but he was immediately waived and left with nowhere to go as his NBA career was on hold. Instead of going overseas, Marshall decided to sign with the D-league but was gaining interest from the Memphis Grizzlies, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers would go on to sign him and that decision has been great as he is now averaging 8.7 points, 3.1 rebounds and 9.5 assists. He's had career-highs with 20 points and 16 assists this season and has revived his career in LA when he was doubted. 

D.J. Augustin, G, Chicago Bulls:

D.J. Augustin was off to a great start with the Charlotte Bobcats when he drafted by the organization back in 2008 with the 9th pick. Augustin spent his first four season with Charlotte in which he averaged 10.9 points and 4.6 assists but averaged 12.8 points and 6.3 assists in his final two seasons with the team. When the Bobcats withdrew their qualifying offer from the guard he became a unrestricted free agent (UFA) and decided to sign with the Indiana Pacers in which was a forgettable season for him. Augustin's next stop was a brief stop in Toronto before he was waived and the young guard was running out of options to find a home. The Chicago Bulls picked him up and it turned to become a great decision for them as he is averaging 13.9 points and 5.3 assists this season with Chicago and Joakim Noah believes D.J. has saved the Bulls season. It's worth noting that Tom Thibadeau has a great history with backup Point Guards which includes C.J. Watson, Nate Robinson, Kirk Hinrich, John Lucas lll and now D.J. Augustin. So far in March he is averaging 19.8 points and is a key contributor with the Bulls as he has been the bright spot in what could've been a dim season once Derrick Rose suffered a Torn Meniscus. 

Robin Lopez, C, Portland Trail Blazers:

Robin Lopez was drafted by the Phoenix Suns back in '08 with the 15th pick and was a backup to Shaquille O'Neal and showed some flashes but for the most part his tenure in Phoenix was not what he expected and after four seasons with the Suns he was traded to the New Orleans Hornets in 2012. With NO he was doing well as he was having a career season and showing why he belonged in the league but he was yet again traded in the summer of 2013 to Portland. Lopez being traded was a great move for him career wise and for the Blazers since they were looking for Center and Lopez was looking for a opportunity on a winning team. This season he is averaging 10.8 points, 8.6 rebounds (career-high) and 1.7 blocks. He's been a great defensive presume in rip city as a defensive presence and is currently averaging 12.8 points and 8.8 rebounds in March.

All the players mentioned in this article seen that their careers were declining fast but didn't just stand and watch, instead they did something about it when three received another chance with another NBA team which means a new start and new beginning as all of the players have a good enough work ethic not let the negativity overrule them and push forward to make the best of a career that can't be predicted as to how long it could last. Right now there are players fighting to find a way back into the league one way or another looking for just one more chance.

Twitter: @NBAFLASHNEWS
Facebook: NBA FLASH NEWS
Instagram: NBAFLASHNEWS

Read More

NBA Midseason Award Winners and Losers

By Kenneth Teape (@teapester725)

The NBA season has officially hit the midway point as multiple teams have started their second half of 41 games. This season has been one of the craziest so far as some teams have risen to the top quicker than expected, others have bottomed out and some are riding roller coasters that would make the people of Six Flags blush. There have been almost as many individual surprises throughout the NBA as some youngsters have burst onto the scene and fans around the world are beginning to take notice. Check out the midseason award winners, losers and biggest surprises, both positive and negative, of an exciting first half of the NBA season.

http://video.news.com.au/v/158111/Is-LeBron-James-Sold-on-His-New-Nike-Sneaker

MVP – LeBron James, SF, Miami Heat

James has put together one of the best seasons statistically in the history of the NBA. His efficiency is through the roof, as only one of the most dominant players in NBA history in Shaquille O’Neal shot more efficiently; keep in mind O’Neal takes almost all his shots from within three feet of the basket, James averages double-digit feet on his shot attempts this season and is still shooting 58 percent from the field overall and 37.2 percent from the three point line. Thus far King James leads his team in scoring, rebounding and assists, averaging 26.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game. James is still the best player in the NBA but he will not run away with the MVP award easily this season.

Others in Consideration: Kevin Durant, SF, Oklahoma City Thunder; Paul George, SF, Indiana Pacers; LaMarcus Aldridge, PF, Portland Trail Blazers; Carmelo Anthony, SF, New York Knicks 

LVP – J.R. Smith, SG, New York Knicks

Anthony Gruppuso/USA TODAY Sports

Smith is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year but you wouldn’t know it from his play this season. Smith has been abysmal for the Knicks throughout the first half, making more headlines for his on and off court antics than his play on it. Smith had off-season knee surgery only after he obtained a contract extension from the Knicks, pushing back his off-season training schedule and missing nearly all of training camp. He was then suspended for the first five games of the season because he violated the NBA’s Drug Policy. Since returning he has been nothing short of disappointing and a headache. Smith recently made headlines for his shoe untying antics, which resulted in a $50,000 fine from the NBA and subsequent benching from head coach Mike Woodson. He then got into a verbal altercation with Woodson over playing time and was benched again. The cherry on top is the Knicks handed him a contract extension worth three years, $17.95 million in free agency, giving the Knicks a player not worth the trouble and another toxic contract which they already had enough of.

Others in Consideration: Deron Williams, PG, Brooklyn Nets; O.J. Mayo, SG, Milwaukee Bucks; Ricky Rubio, PG, Minnesota Timberwolves

Rookie of the Year: Michael Carter-Williams, PG, Philadelphia 76ers

http://www.csnbayarea.com/sportsnetBayArea/search/t/82549260/sixers-carter-williams-standing-up-to-the-test.htm?pageid=453746

Carter-Williams is having one of the best rookie seasons in the history of the NBA, averaging 17.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists and 2.5 steals per game. The only players to finish with those types of numbers in a rookie season are Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson. He leads all NBA rookies in the stats mentioned above and is in the running for NBA lead in steals per game, which would make him the first rookie to ever lead the NBA in steals. Carter-Williams has had a great season for the 76ers, making them fun to watch but continuing to lose enough games to keep them in the running for the top pick, exactly what their front office wants.

Others in Consideration: Victor Oladipo, SG/PG, Orlando Magic; Trey Burke, PG, Utah Jazz

Defensive Player of the Year: Roy Hibbert, C, Indiana Pacers

D. Clarke Evans/Getty Images

Hibbert had a coming out party or sorts against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals last season and he has carried that confidence over to this season. Hibbert has been an anchor and stalwart in the middle for the best defense in the NBA, averaging 2.6 blocks per game and altering many others throughout the season. Hibbert’s shear size makes it tough for opponents to score around him but his improved agility and foot work have made him much more of an intimidating force on the court.

Others in Consideration: DeAndre Jordan, C, Los Angeles Clippers; Serge Ibaka, PF, Oklahoma City Thunder

Coach of the Year: Jeff Hornacek, Phoenix Suns

Hornacek runs away with the COY award with what he has done with the Phoenix Suns. Coming into the season, the Suns were looked at as one of the worst teams in the NBA, with a roster stocked with young but untapped potential that was destined and playing for a top pick in the loaded 2014 NBA Draft. But Hornacek and the Suns had different ideas, as they currently sit with a 24-17 record, seventh seed in the Western Conference, and are the surprise of the first half. What makes this record even more impressive if they have done it for the most part without Eric Bledsoe, who has played in only 24 games this season and could potentially miss the remainder of the season because of a torn meniscus. It would not be the worst thing for the Suns to fall out of the playoffs and into the lottery but it is hard to imagine them tanking much with the effort they have put in during the first half.

Others in Consideration: Terry Stotts, Portland Trail Blazers; Tom Thibodeau, Chicago Bulls; Frank Vogel, Indiana Pacers

Biggest Surprise: Up-And Coming Teams

The NBA is full of up-and-coming players that are on the rise but there are also some teams on the rise and will look to be quick outs in the playoffs. In the Western Conference the Phoenix Suns are the surprise of the NBA, holding down the seventh seed in the Western Conference. Another surprise is the Portland Trail Blazers, who to the surprise of many are sitting at third place in the Western Conference; it helps being the top scoring and rebounding team in the NBA. The Eastern Conference has been abysmal but there are still some surprises there, such as the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors have been playing great since trading Rudy Gay to the Sacramento Kings, going 15-8 since. The Washington Wizards are also fighting to play .500 basketball for seemingly the first time in forever and it is nice to see John Wall finally healthy and playing well.

Biggest Disappointment: Injuries

The NBA has loads of young talent that fans of any team enjoy watching. The only thing that keeps the fans from seeing these players is injuries, and unfortunately there have been plenty of them this season. The point guard position has been ravaged, as Derrick Rose was lost for the season again, Russell Westbrook re-injured his knee, Chris Paul separated his shoulder, Jrue Holiday fractured his leg, Steve Nash with his back and Bledsoe with his ankle. Kobe Bryant suffered an injury just six games into his comeback campaign and Dwyane Wade has been in and out of the lineup because of knee problems. As a fan of the NBA injuries are the worst thing to happen as it keeps you from seeing the best of the best on the court every night.

Others in Consideration: The Eastern Conference; New York Basketball

Read More

Knicks Slip Past Suns in OT For 5th Straight Win

By Kenneth Teape (@teapester725)

Monday, January 13^th, 2014

Phoenix Suns vs. New York Knicks

Post Game Recap

The Knicks were able to hold off a feisty Suns squad in the last game of their road trip 98-96 in overtime. The Knicks effort was inconsistent throughout the night, never putting away a tough Suns team. The Suns are the Cinderella of the NBA season thus far and they showed why tonight against the Knicks; there are no superstars on the roster but they play hard and stick to what they do best. This is a game the Knicks would have lost just two weeks ago. It is amazing what a little practice time and a New Year can do for a team as the Knicks look like they have righted the ship. The win tonight gives the Knicks five straight and pushed them into a tie for 8^th place in the Eastern Conference with the Brooklyn Nets. The Knicks will look to continue their winning streak tomorrow night against the Charlotte Bobcats.

Player of the Game: Kenyon Martin

Jim McIsaac

Never in his wildest dreams would Martin have thought he would be giving the Knicks this much at any point in the season. It is hard to believe that Mike Woodson would have thought he would need Martin this much either but Martin has delivered. Tonight Martin was outstanding for the Knicks once again on the boards, grabbing nine rebounds and adding tough, hard nosed defense. Martin played 35 minutes, which is impressive because at the beginning of the season it was thought that he and Amar’e Stoudemire would be splitting time. Martin also added timely baskets for the Knicks tonight with two tip-back slam dunks to swing momentum and get the crowd into frenzy.

-Positives

Carmelo Anthony was a little fatigued down the stretch but he was able to score when the Knicks needed him most. Anthony scored four of the six Knicks points in overtime to get them the victory. On the night Anthony scored 29 points on 9-24 shooting (3-6 3pt, 8-9 FT). Once again he was a monster on the boards, pulling down game high 16 rebounds. Anthony also added four assists, raising the Knicks record in games that Anthony records four assists to 11-2. The biggest of the four came with 53 seconds left as Anthony found Felton standing in the corner for a three pointer to give the Knicks the lead back.

Frank Franklin III/AP Photo

Felton didn’t have the gaudy assist totals he had in the last two games but he was able to carve up the Suns defense by attacking and knocking down jump shots. Felton shot 8-16 from the field (2-6 3pt, 1-2 FT) for 19 points as he offset the damage done by Suns starting point guard Goran Dragic. Felton looked like he was going to be a scapegoat for a loss tonight but played a big role in getting the victory instead.

The Knicks perimeter defense was outstanding again tonight. The Knicks have been defending the three point line much better and is one reason for the current winning streak. The Knicks continued their streak of allowing under 100 points, running that to five as well. Tonight the Suns shot 7-30 from the three point line and 33-93 overall for the game.

Once again credit needs to be given to Woodson. The Knicks had a penchant to butcher end of game situations earlier in the season but have really tightened things up down the stretch. Tonight Woodson made sure the team knew the current situation and what the correct thing to do. With three seconds left the Suns were in-bounding in the front court down three points. Felton fouled Channing Frye when his back was towards the basket with 2.5 seconds left, sending him to the line. Frye would miss the first and make the second as the Knicks would subsequently run the clock out. Woodson once again had his team prepared mentally, something that could not be said for most of the season. He was also able to keep the Knicks poised as the Suns were able to take a five point lead in the fourth quarter after climbing out of 14-point deficit in the first half.

-Negatives

Frank Franklin III/AP Photo

The perimeter defense was outstanding for the Knicks but the perimeter players torched them. Dragic made Felton and anyone guarding him look silly throughout the night, scoring 28 points, grabbing eight rebounds and handing out four assists. Off the bench Leandro Barbosa looked like the Brazilian Blur from his earlier Suns days as he picked the Knicks apart. Barbosa hurt the Knicks scoring 21 points.

The Knicks were sloppy at times during the game as they did not keep the energy level up at all times. They never put the Suns away as they did not seem as focused as they could have been. They also looked a little tired, which is disheartening as they had a day off and they have a game tomorrow night in Charlotte against the Bobcats. The lackluster focus caused the Knicks to not get into a rhythm for the better part of the game, resulting in 18 turnovers. The frequent turnovers kept the Suns in the game as they turned the ball over only 10 times.

Read More