NBA Season Opens, Mavericks Ignorance Still Abundant
I thought I set the record straight over the last 7 days both on the air and here in the blog. Apparently I still have some work to do. The idea that Dirk Nowitzki and Lamar Odom need time to figure out how to play together is proposterous. There is nothing to learn from a preseason game. Yes, the pair didn't shoot well but please understand both these men are very skilled and intelligent basketball players. Spacing, shooting, dribbling, passing, they excel at all of the offensive skills of the game. The mere suggestion that they won't thrive in playing off eachother and tormenting the opposition is an example of sportsmedia at it's worst. Get a clue.
I guess I can see how it happens with Rick Carlisle happily playing the role of underdog, downplaying their additions, and selling the idea that there's a lot of work to do. He's a brilliant coach who knows this team won last year because it stayed focused and under the radar.
Elsewhere as we head in to opening weekend.
-Donnie Nelson told me Wednesday the Mavericks weren't bringing back Deshawn Stevenson. I thought it was because Stevenson wanted a multi year deal, that's why it was disappointing to see he signed a one year deal to play in New Jersey. You will miss his defense.
-Apparently Deshawn holds no grudge against Jay-Z who made a diss track about him three years ago during the Wizards and Cavs playoff series.
"I mean, I take it as an honor that he even made a song about me. You know? He doesn't even do that with rappers," . "So obviously, I would say what's up to him." I'll miss him too.
-The Miami Heat will not be on the floor Sunday when the banner goes up. Instead the Heat will be back in the lockerroom getting pumped up to exact whatever small amount of revenge can be exacted in a regular season game. Something tells me the fans won't be as happy after the game as they are before.
-Reminder Shane Battier is now a member of the Heat. One of the best defensive small forwards in the game, hits the corner 3 at a high percentage. If Dallas gets back to the finals, you might end up hating him.
-Mavs still have a roster spot and probably a need for a real center. I hear Greg Ostertag is making a comeback and joined the NBDL. Ricky Davis too. You do know I'm kidding right?
-Prediction for Sunday. Miami 108, Dallas 101. Defensive connectivity should be shaky, and Miami really has something to prove. It's very difficult to get up for a game like this.
-Prediction for Monday. Asinine overreactions all over cyberspace and the airwaves.
I'll try to post a blog from my parents couch to add a slice of sanity.
If you see me beer me.
