Post by sagapolutele50 on Jan 29, 2009 9:14:17 GMT -5
ITS THAT TIME AGAIN, POWER RANKINGS AFTER THE ALL STAR BREAK!! TAKE A LOOK, AND I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT!!! I DECIDED TO START FROM THE BOTTOM AND MAKE MY WAY TO THE TOP.
29.
Charlotte Hornets ( previous ranking -) 11-37
Team MVP - Terry Cummings - 18.6 pts, 7.6 brds, 3.7 stls.( 6 POG, 12 double doubles, 1 triple double) The Hornets have been struggling the whole season and will be looking forward to the up coming draft. They traded Chambers away for Otis Thorpe (and 92 pick) where he is thriving in Charlotte. They have two current lottery picks this year and plenty of cap to spend in the off-season where they can hopefully add to Cummings, Thorpe, Hill and Shaw. Terry Cummings has been their MVP this season, garnering 12 double doubles, 6 POG and a triple double which came against the Jazz ( 18 pts, 13 asst, 12 brds) on day 67. They average the fewest ppg (82.1) and Reb per game (45) in the league and are last in many others. On a positive note, there is only 1 way from here, and thats up!!!
28.
Miami Heat (#5) 19-31
Team MVP - Moses Malone - 16pts, 9 brds, 1.5 blks. (6 POG, 26 double doubles)From their 4-1 start, the Heat have sputtered their way to a 19-31 record. Gilliam, Majerle and Malone have been solid for the Heat but need a star player for these guys to support. The Heat gm has been actively looking at trading his players for picks, particularly Moses Malone. They are looking at building around Dan Majerle and could do with a PG to get their offense moving. They are only averaging 77 (27th) fgapg and making 35(27th) of them at 45% (15th), maybe with a floor general they could get it moving along more nicely. They still have their 1st this year and could benefit from a lottery pick this season.
27.
Denver Nuggets (17) 16-26
Team MVP - Vlade Divac - 13 pts, 9 brds, 3.9 assts, 1.1 blks (5 POG, 15 double doubles)
The Nuggets come in at 27 with their experimental lineup. They have Dennis Scott at PF who seems a little out of his league at this position and could be making way for Larry Johnson should the opporunity arise. The Nuggets have made it clear they are looking towards the future and have the picks to plan for that future. Out of their current roster, it looks like Vlade, Sherman and Dennis could be the mainstays of this team. Otis Smith at SF has been a pleasant surprise and is looking like a pretty good pick up. They recently made a trade where Alton Lister went to the Warriors for a future 1st. They havent had a good start to the second half of the season where they have played 6 home games winning only 2 of them. They have a tough schedule coming up where they play 30 games in the next 40 days, this is a busy and exciting time for the Nuggets franchise.
26.
Cleveland Cavaliers (-)14 -24
Team MVP - Shawn Kemp - 20 pts, 12 brds, 3.5 assts, 1.9 blks ( 8 POG, 28 double doubles, 1 triple double)
This teams future looks bright with Shawn Kemp, Nick Anderson and Rex Chapman leading the way. But presently their team is struggling to keep pace with the other teams. They have only played 38 games and have 44 games in the next 50 days ahead of them. Jim Les has been more than capable at PG for them considering his ratings arent that good!! Since the All Star break they have gone 3-1 with their only loss to the league leading Raptors. Look to this team making some noise in the next year or two, if they can get a C to play down low with Kemp before the deadline, they could make a run for the playoffs this season, considering they are only 6 games out of 8th spot.
25.
Phoenix Suns (-) 17- 27
Team MVP - Derrick Coleman 18 pts, 10 brds, 1.4 blks ( 6 POG, 22 double doubles, 1 triple double)
This team is led by the inside/outside duo of DC and Hersey Hawkins. Before the Allstar break the Suns were on a 5-1 run, since then they have gone 2-5. It could have been due to the fact that they had a fair number of their roster involved in the weekend. They were represented well with Coleman, Causwell and Gill helping lead the Rookies to victory and Hawkins finishing 4th in the 3 pt contest. This bodes well for the future of this team with the number of rookies starting, if they can get their PG Mookie Blaylock to get his TOs down, they could start making some noise in their division. Their GM has no qualms with the team not doing well this season, he is looking to the future, and with this cast of young guns, it looks bright.
24.
Los Angeles Lakers (14) 19 - 27
Team MVP - Michael Adams - 25 pts, 10 assts, 2 stls ( 17 POG, 1 POW, 25 double doubles)
The Allstar MVP Michael Adams leads this team and thats that. He is in the top ten in Steals, Assists, Points and Minutes played. Its a pity the rest of the team is either injured or not good enough to keep up with him. Looking at the Lakers GM remarks, he isnt happy with his teams turnovers and his signalled lineup changes could be on the cards. Purvis Ellison has been solid but gets into foul trouble alot and needs to stay on court more as his team needs his shotblocking. The Lakers have stumbled out of the blocks since the ASB going 4-4 but have 6 home games coming up where they hope to go undefeated. They are 11-13 at home so I dont think thats going to happen.
23.
Chicago Bulls (-)19 - 27
Team MVP - Larry Bird 26 pts, 9 brds, 5 assts ( 15 POG, 1 POW, 20 double doubles, 1 triple double)
At 33 years of age, Larry Bird can still play and has some great support from Orlando Woolridge (21 and 7) Frank Brickowski and their young C Rik Smits. They are averaging 100 ppg but their def is giving up 99 ppg. They have shown great potential but cant seem to win on the road. They are 14-8 at home but an abysmal 5-19 on the road, winning at least half of their road games would have seen them up in the playoff seedings. Proof of this inconsistancy is that they have beaten the Raptors, Bullets and Grizzlies since the AS break all playoff bound teams but lost to the Cavs and Sonics ( teams struggling to make the top 8). Orlando is in the top 10 in FG% along and Bird is in the top 10 in Points, FGA, FT % , stls and turnovers. They dont have their 1st this year so they need to make a few strategic moves or dc changes to get them into the playoffs. Should be an interesting 2nd half of the season.
22.
Orlando Magic (11)18 - 25
Team MVP - Scottie Pippen 18 pts , 7brds, 3 assts, 1.9 stls (5 POG, 9 double double, 1 triple double)
The Magic are 4-6 in their last 10 and 6-16 on the road. They have put their roster on the trade block and are looking for picks. Pippen is their leader and is supported by the league leader in steals Michael Williams. They are one of the better defensive teams ( 51 brds, 10 stls, 5 blks) in the league but turnovers (16.8 pg), FG% (.438%) and assts ( 19 apg) in the offensive departments are letting this team down. Clifford Robinson looks like a PF of the future but needs to stay on the court to help Pippen and Williams when the game is on the line. They have started out the 2nd half of the season 4-5 going 4-4 at home and 0-1 on the road. If they go lotto, expect them to look for front court help at C.
21
Dallas Mavericks (-) 19 - 25
Team MVP - Rod Strickland - 15 pts, 5 brds, 10 assts, 2 stls ( 16 POG, 27 double doubles, 2 triple doubles)
Strickland and Rolando Blackman form one of the best back courts in the league. Mark West is very solid at C who is ranked the 7th best C in the league. Outside of these three there isnt much else. They give up 92 points a game but only put 89 points up of their own. Their FG% is at .433 which is the 3rd worst shooting % in the league. Strickland leads the league in minutes played and is 5th in assts. They have had a shaky start to the 2nd half of the season going 3-5 but look to move up the ladder behind the offense of Strickland and Blackman and the defense of Bol ( 2.6 blks), West (2.3 blks) and Herb Williams ( 1 blk).
20.
Milwaukee Bucks (-) 22-26
Team MVP - Reggie Lewis - 23 ppg, 7 brds, 2 assts ( 9 POG, 10 double doubles)
Another back court duo rule this team, Tim Hardaway (21 pts, 7 assts , stls) and Reggie Lewis are the heart and soul of the Bucks. They will go only as far as these two will take them. Unfortunately for them, its not that far. Jerome Kersey and Mike Giminski are the only other two players on this roster that can contribute, but even that isnt much. Rookie Sean Elliot and 2nd year player Willie Andersone are still a season or two away from helping and outside of Giminski, they dont have much up front.
19.
Buffalo Braves (20) 22-26
Team MVP - Charles Barkely - 23 points, 11 brds, 4.8 assts
( 10 POG, 27 double doubles, 1 triple double)
Charles and Mitch Richmond (17 pts, 4 brds, 2 assts) lead this team with the support of Blair Rasmussen (16 pts, 10 brds, 1 asst) and Lionel Simmons ( 13 pts, 7 brds, 3 assts). They have started the 2nd half off 4-3 and look to have everyone playing together for once. Charles Barkley has missed 10 games already this season and the team has also had Mo Cheeks ( 2), Mitch Richmond ( 4) and Rasmussen (5) miss games this season due to injury, for a team looking to win, that is the last thing they need. They dont have their 1st this season so winning is paramount. If they can stay healthy, it shouldnt be a problem.
18.
Minnesota Timberwolves (15) 22 - 26
Team MVP - Randy White 14 pts, 8 brds, 1 stl ( 2 POG, 14 double doubles)
They recently acquired Travis Mays and a couple of picks for Skiles and have since gone 8-6 with Mays winning the Rookie vs Sophmore MVP. For a team trying to lose they make awful losers lol. They still have a stack load of picks and cap room and have 4 players in Vaught, White, Burton and Mays who look like they have got some talent and could help them out next season. A big question is with all these 1sts next season, are these players now expenadable? Or will they be included in the rotation. They are still only 1.5 games out of the 8th seed, and with the unpredictability of the West, they could find themselves as the 5th seed come playoff time.
17.
Seattle Supersonics (6) 23-26
Team MVP - 22 pts, 10 brds, 1.1 blks ( 10 POGs, 29 double doubles)
3-5 to start the 2nd half of the season and 21 days left with Payton on the injured list. Tarpley is keeping this team together and carrying them on his back hoping they will help him out. Lets hope he doesnt crack under the pressure and turn to drugs
Before he got injured, the glove managed to secure ROM honours with stellar performances against the Twolves (18 pts, 11asts and 10 brds) and Bullets ( 14 pts 12 assts). John Starks and Derrick Mckey are solid contributors, however, if they can find more minutes for Dale Ellis, they could see their teams scoring averages rise. At 88.3 points a game, they are the third best at restricting their opposition but are 2nd to last in their own ppg.
16.
Houston Rockets (19) 23- 24
Team MVP - Kevin Johnson 14 pts, 7 assts, 2.3 stls and 51% shooting (7 POG, 11 double doubles)
This team moves up to 16 due to the teams balanced attack. They have 6 players averaging double digits and are shooting close to 46% from the field. They are 4-4 since the All Star Break 2-2 on the road. Turnovers and their post play are still a problem for them. They dont have a recognised PF and it shows with only 2.7 blocks per game. Duckworth isnt noted for his rebounding and they only have 4 players with B or better def ratings, KJ is their best defender with B+. Should they miss the postseason, the Rockets will be best served strengthening their front court. Drazen and KJ look like a solid back court and can be something they can build on.
15.
Utah Jazz (8) 23 -24
Team MVP - Rodney Mcray 24 pts, 8 brds, 3 assts ( 9 POG, 18 double doubles)
Rodney Mcray is just a beast and is loving being the centrepiece of this team and being rewarded with an All Star Game Spot. Everyone has been waiting for the wheels to finally fall off this wagon, but they arent showing any signs of coming off. If they do, the Jazz still have their own first and also the Knicks and Kings. They are still shooting the ball really well ( .451) and look after the ball real well. They have had good wins over the Bulls, Grizzlies and Kings since the All Star Break and are 16-5 at home. Their home record is awesome and if they can keep winning at home and secure a home playoff spot, they could open a few eyes!!
14.
Sacramento Kings (16) 24- 23
Team MVP- Magic Johnson - 13 pts, 10 assts, 6 brds , 1.9 stls (17 POG, 26 double doubles, 4 triple doubles)
The Kings have their C, PF, SF and PG in the top ten in their positions and are 3-7 in their last 10 games. Magic Johnson leads the league in assists and is 2nd only to Rod Strickland in minutes played. They have been missing Theus their last 4 games and during that stretch they have gone 1-3. They started the 2nd half of the season 1-5 where the Chief was out for the 1st 4 games and they went 0-4, they have 2 more days before Reggie Comes back. Kenny Gattison has been playing in Reggies place but he cant score like Theus does and that is what is sorely missed. Ron Harper has been playing well and who along with Danny Manning complete a very capable starting 5. All they need to do is go on a run and they could still secure a home semi!!
13.
Vancouver Grizzlies (12) 26- 25
Team MVP - Dominique Wilkins 26 pts, 10 brds, 4 assts ( 17 POG, 2 POW, 25 double doubles)
The Human Highlight film has been on fire as of late, with scoring outputs of 30,30,35, 27,35 and 23... Alot has been said about the what if Brad wasnt traded away, noone will know so with the roster in front of us the Grizzlies are still in the playoff race. Kevin Mchale is still 37 days away from returning to the playing roster and in his place Antoine Carr and Stacy King have been performing admirably. Isaiah Thomas and Rickey Pierce have stepped up in Mchales absence leading them to a 6-4 record in their last 10 games and 5th in the West. If they can keep winning and get Mchale back in time before the playoffs, they could be a pretty tough outfit to stop. Dominique is making a strong case for MVP, but has a tough challenge out East from a few other players.
12.
Boston Celtics (9) 24- 22
Team MVP - Larry Nance 17 pts, 9 assts, 2.8 blks, 1.2 stls ( 10 POG, 21 double doubles)
Larry Nance and Rony Seikaly have teamed to be a formiddable front court duo averaging 32 points and 20 brds between the two of them. Bernard King is mr automatic with 23 pts on 51% shooting, 5 brds and 3 assts. The strong play of Derek Harper and more importantly Jeff Hornacek has seen the Celtics go 6-4 in their last 10 and 13-8 at home. They have started the 2nd half of the season 4-4 but look to build momentum for the run into the playoffs, they had a tough loss vs the Raptors but went on to beat the Braves, Sonics and Lakers. Against the Spurs Jeff Hornacek had 14 pts, 11 brds, 9 asst and 6 stls, against Mark Jackson.
11.
Detroit Pistons(18) 21-18
Team MVP - Mark Price 19 pts, 7 assts, 2.7 stls , 3.9 brds (7 POG, 1 POW, 8 double doubles)
Glen Rice and Mark Price have carried this team to a 21-18 record, 6-4 in their last ten and 14 -7 at home. They are 4-2 to start the 2nd half of the season and have had good wins against Blazers , Spurs ( twice) and Rockets, losing to the Knicks and 6ers. Everyone else shares time on the court and they all pitch in with important minutes. Bullard, Massenburg, Oakley and Sikma all average at least 5 pts and 5 brds for the Pistons, thats very good production for bench players. This is a great example of individuals playing as a team, not a team of individuals. Days 100-107 will be important to watch, that is a road trip that could determine either a playoff spot or lottery.
10
San Antonio Spurs 24 21
Team MVP - cLYDE dREXLER 25 pts, 8 brds, 5 assts, 2 stls ( 15 POG, 19 Double doubles, 1 triple double)
The Spurs are atop the midwest division with a 24 -21 record, They have been 5-5 in their last 10 games and 13 -11 at home. The midwest division is a toss up where 6.5 games seperate 1st from 6th place. The Spurs have gone 3-3 and rely alot on Drexler to get them through games. They have three guys averaging 12.4 ppg and could do with a bit more production from Mark Jackson. They average 10 stls per game which is good enough for 3 rd in the league. The Spurs will only go as far as Drexler can take them, how far? That is entirely up to him.
9.
Los Angeles Clippers(13) 26 22
Team MVP - Terry Porter 14 pts, 10 assts, 2.4 stls ( 15 POG, 22 double doubles)
They are 6-4 in their last 10 and 15-8 at home. Porter, Willis and Tisdale are their main contributors and if you were to trade for one of them, it would be pretty tough to get them. Porter is in the top ten for Assts ( 4th), Stls ( 4th) and Mins(8th), whilst Tisdale is 6th on the seasons scoring average, 2nd in FG% and 7 in FG attempts per game from the SG position!!. They went 4 - 2 since the break ( 4-1 at home, 0-1 on the road) and lost to Eastern conference teams Raptors and the Knicks. Willis is out 4 more days where they play the Lakers, Warriors and Celtics.
8.
Atlanta Hawks (-)23 - 18
Team MVP - kARL Malone 30pts, 11 brds, 3.6 assts ( 22 POG, 31 double doubles, 1 triple double)
With Karl Malone you get a brute of a guy who will just outmuscle anyone who matches up against him. His team is 15-7 at home and has struggled as of late going 3-7 in their last 10 games. Their back court looks solid, but since the acquisition of Scott Skiles they have gone 4-7 and look like they are in need of a SG. His numbers look awesome but remember that those numbers are from his time with the wolves. Ken Norman and Olden Polynice are solid but not spectacular and it looks like the onus is on the Mailman to deliver more than he would like to. If Skiles can bring offense to the team, then the Hawks will be a threat, but if not, they could be in danger of slipping out of the playoff hunt.
7.
Indiana Pacers (7)31- 23
Team MVP - Joe Dumars 20 pts, 8 assts, 3 brds ( 10 POG, 1 POW, 20 double doubles)
21- 6 at home and have gone 4-6 in their last 10 games. Since they acquired Tom Chambers, the Pacers have gone 13 -12 but have been without Mullin for the last12 game. With his return I should think they could make a run for a home playoff.. Chambers gives them some versatility where he can either play SF or PF and should give them an offensive boost!! Laimbeer and Laselle Thompson are averaging double doubles and give this lineup a very good look about it. Perkins looks to come off the bench and provide a deep threat as well as post presence. They only have 28 games left in their season.
6.
New York Knicks (10)32 -23
Team MVP - Reggie Miller 25 pts, 4 brds, 4 assts ( 13 POG, 1 double double)
Led by Reggie Miller, the Knicks have had a so-so start to the 2nd half, going 4-5 with a 4-0 home record and an 0-5 road run. They allow only 90 ppg which is 4 th best in the league and are a very respectable 23-7 at home. Charles Smith and Sam Bowie are solid and keep their opposition in check most of the time. Rick Mahorn has been solid off the bench avging 7 pts and 6 brds in 17 minutes, very productive indeed. If one of their other players can catch fire and start scoring at a fast click, then watch out for these Knicks.
5.
Portland Trailblazers (-)27 19
Team MVP- Patrick Ewing 30 pts, 12 brds 3 blks ( 21 PG , 38 double doubles)
With the twin towers of Benoit Benjamin (13pts, 11 brds, 1.6 blks) and Ewing down low, you would find it hard to score inside against these guys. They allow a league leading 86.5 ppg and are in the top 10 in blks per game and assts per game. They are 7-3 in their last ten games and are 16-6 at home. T hurl Bailey has been out for the last 6 games and is out 6 more days with Henry James replacing him. Ty Corbin has been a very capable third option at 16 pts, 6 brds and 2 stls with Dee Brown putting up solid numbers. They have 5 road games and then another 5 at home, so without Thurl Bailey in the lineup, Henry James will need to step up big time.
4.
Washington Bullets (-)29 -20
Team MVP - Hakeem Olajuwon 32 pts, 13 brds, 4 assts, 4 blks ( 34 POG, 4 POW, 3 POM, 42 double doubles, 1 triple double)
Led by the probable league MVP, the Bullets are 6-4 in their last 10 games and 17 -8 at home. Olajuwons supporting cast includes PG Avery Johnson, Vernon Maxwell, Dana Barros and Terry Mills. They give up 90 ppg and shoot the ball at .453% and 10 stls a game. Since the break they have gone 5-1 with the only loss to the Dallas Mavericks. On any other team, this supporting cast wouldnt do much, but with Hakeem on their side, anything is possible.. Can they catch the Raptors? Only Hakeem can answer that.
3.
Philadelphia 76ers ( 2 )29- 15
Team MVP - David Robinson - 29 pts, 12 brds, 2 blks ( 23 POG, 32 double doubles, 1 Triple Double)
Tony Campbell, Mark Aguire and DRob run this team. Their def is the 3rd stingiest behind the Warriors and Blazers at 88.1 ppg. They shoot the ball at close to 47% and block a league leading 8 shots a game. Since the break they have gone 6-1 with their only loss coming at the hands of the Spurs. Gary Grant has been a solid pick up at PG with 9 assts and 2 stls per game . Dudley,Spencer and Cooper all share time up front and provide Robinson with some much needed inside help. The 6ers are only 7 games out of 1st in the East and could still make a run. Their TOPG have come down but are still somewhat high, at this point it doesnt seem to hurt the 6ers in any case.
2.
Golden State Warriors (1)35 16
Team MVP - bRAD Daugherty 32 pts, 10 brds, 3 assts ( 25 POG, 38 double doubles)
With a 35-16 record, the Warriors start slip to 2nd!! Stockton and Daugherty are proving to be an awesome duo and cant be stopped in the West. Stockton is averaging 13 pts, 10 asst and 2 stls a game along with two solid role players in Rodman and Curry, prove to be a tough lineup to break. Mark Eaton rounds out the starting 5 and a very big twin towers. They are 5 -1 since the break and are 2nd only to the blazers in points allowed per game. Brad Daugherty has really been a revelation and has helped this team go along way this season. They are 6-4 in their last ten and have the best home recored with 18-5 at home. Pencil in day 82 where the top of the West ( currently the Warriors ) take on the top of the East ( Currently the Raptors)
1.
Toronto Raptors (4)36- 8
Team MVP - Michael Jordan 33 pts, 7 brds, 4 assts , 2 stls ( 22 POG, 9 double doubles)
1st place goes to the Raptors, they have the best record, home record at 17-1 and road record at 19 -7. They have the scoring in Person and Jordan, the playmaking of Pooh Richardson and the interior def with Grant and Lang. Vern Flemming, Erick Leckner and Elden Campbell have been great off the bench and Jordan just makes the team better. If Jordan gets injured its game over. They lead the league in PPG, REB PG and are top ten in stls, blks, turnovers and assts. If they can keep this up they could go all the way, but thats a big IF..
Well thats all from me, Hope you enjoyed the rankings from 29 -1. This is Saga..etc.. signing off .. PEACE OUT!!!
29.
Charlotte Hornets ( previous ranking -) 11-37
Team MVP - Terry Cummings - 18.6 pts, 7.6 brds, 3.7 stls.( 6 POG, 12 double doubles, 1 triple double) The Hornets have been struggling the whole season and will be looking forward to the up coming draft. They traded Chambers away for Otis Thorpe (and 92 pick) where he is thriving in Charlotte. They have two current lottery picks this year and plenty of cap to spend in the off-season where they can hopefully add to Cummings, Thorpe, Hill and Shaw. Terry Cummings has been their MVP this season, garnering 12 double doubles, 6 POG and a triple double which came against the Jazz ( 18 pts, 13 asst, 12 brds) on day 67. They average the fewest ppg (82.1) and Reb per game (45) in the league and are last in many others. On a positive note, there is only 1 way from here, and thats up!!!
28.
Miami Heat (#5) 19-31
Team MVP - Moses Malone - 16pts, 9 brds, 1.5 blks. (6 POG, 26 double doubles)From their 4-1 start, the Heat have sputtered their way to a 19-31 record. Gilliam, Majerle and Malone have been solid for the Heat but need a star player for these guys to support. The Heat gm has been actively looking at trading his players for picks, particularly Moses Malone. They are looking at building around Dan Majerle and could do with a PG to get their offense moving. They are only averaging 77 (27th) fgapg and making 35(27th) of them at 45% (15th), maybe with a floor general they could get it moving along more nicely. They still have their 1st this year and could benefit from a lottery pick this season.
27.
Denver Nuggets (17) 16-26
Team MVP - Vlade Divac - 13 pts, 9 brds, 3.9 assts, 1.1 blks (5 POG, 15 double doubles)
The Nuggets come in at 27 with their experimental lineup. They have Dennis Scott at PF who seems a little out of his league at this position and could be making way for Larry Johnson should the opporunity arise. The Nuggets have made it clear they are looking towards the future and have the picks to plan for that future. Out of their current roster, it looks like Vlade, Sherman and Dennis could be the mainstays of this team. Otis Smith at SF has been a pleasant surprise and is looking like a pretty good pick up. They recently made a trade where Alton Lister went to the Warriors for a future 1st. They havent had a good start to the second half of the season where they have played 6 home games winning only 2 of them. They have a tough schedule coming up where they play 30 games in the next 40 days, this is a busy and exciting time for the Nuggets franchise.
26.
Cleveland Cavaliers (-)14 -24
Team MVP - Shawn Kemp - 20 pts, 12 brds, 3.5 assts, 1.9 blks ( 8 POG, 28 double doubles, 1 triple double)
This teams future looks bright with Shawn Kemp, Nick Anderson and Rex Chapman leading the way. But presently their team is struggling to keep pace with the other teams. They have only played 38 games and have 44 games in the next 50 days ahead of them. Jim Les has been more than capable at PG for them considering his ratings arent that good!! Since the All Star break they have gone 3-1 with their only loss to the league leading Raptors. Look to this team making some noise in the next year or two, if they can get a C to play down low with Kemp before the deadline, they could make a run for the playoffs this season, considering they are only 6 games out of 8th spot.
25.
Phoenix Suns (-) 17- 27
Team MVP - Derrick Coleman 18 pts, 10 brds, 1.4 blks ( 6 POG, 22 double doubles, 1 triple double)
This team is led by the inside/outside duo of DC and Hersey Hawkins. Before the Allstar break the Suns were on a 5-1 run, since then they have gone 2-5. It could have been due to the fact that they had a fair number of their roster involved in the weekend. They were represented well with Coleman, Causwell and Gill helping lead the Rookies to victory and Hawkins finishing 4th in the 3 pt contest. This bodes well for the future of this team with the number of rookies starting, if they can get their PG Mookie Blaylock to get his TOs down, they could start making some noise in their division. Their GM has no qualms with the team not doing well this season, he is looking to the future, and with this cast of young guns, it looks bright.
24.
Los Angeles Lakers (14) 19 - 27
Team MVP - Michael Adams - 25 pts, 10 assts, 2 stls ( 17 POG, 1 POW, 25 double doubles)
The Allstar MVP Michael Adams leads this team and thats that. He is in the top ten in Steals, Assists, Points and Minutes played. Its a pity the rest of the team is either injured or not good enough to keep up with him. Looking at the Lakers GM remarks, he isnt happy with his teams turnovers and his signalled lineup changes could be on the cards. Purvis Ellison has been solid but gets into foul trouble alot and needs to stay on court more as his team needs his shotblocking. The Lakers have stumbled out of the blocks since the ASB going 4-4 but have 6 home games coming up where they hope to go undefeated. They are 11-13 at home so I dont think thats going to happen.
23.
Chicago Bulls (-)19 - 27
Team MVP - Larry Bird 26 pts, 9 brds, 5 assts ( 15 POG, 1 POW, 20 double doubles, 1 triple double)
At 33 years of age, Larry Bird can still play and has some great support from Orlando Woolridge (21 and 7) Frank Brickowski and their young C Rik Smits. They are averaging 100 ppg but their def is giving up 99 ppg. They have shown great potential but cant seem to win on the road. They are 14-8 at home but an abysmal 5-19 on the road, winning at least half of their road games would have seen them up in the playoff seedings. Proof of this inconsistancy is that they have beaten the Raptors, Bullets and Grizzlies since the AS break all playoff bound teams but lost to the Cavs and Sonics ( teams struggling to make the top 8). Orlando is in the top 10 in FG% along and Bird is in the top 10 in Points, FGA, FT % , stls and turnovers. They dont have their 1st this year so they need to make a few strategic moves or dc changes to get them into the playoffs. Should be an interesting 2nd half of the season.
22.
Orlando Magic (11)18 - 25
Team MVP - Scottie Pippen 18 pts , 7brds, 3 assts, 1.9 stls (5 POG, 9 double double, 1 triple double)
The Magic are 4-6 in their last 10 and 6-16 on the road. They have put their roster on the trade block and are looking for picks. Pippen is their leader and is supported by the league leader in steals Michael Williams. They are one of the better defensive teams ( 51 brds, 10 stls, 5 blks) in the league but turnovers (16.8 pg), FG% (.438%) and assts ( 19 apg) in the offensive departments are letting this team down. Clifford Robinson looks like a PF of the future but needs to stay on the court to help Pippen and Williams when the game is on the line. They have started out the 2nd half of the season 4-5 going 4-4 at home and 0-1 on the road. If they go lotto, expect them to look for front court help at C.
21
Dallas Mavericks (-) 19 - 25
Team MVP - Rod Strickland - 15 pts, 5 brds, 10 assts, 2 stls ( 16 POG, 27 double doubles, 2 triple doubles)
Strickland and Rolando Blackman form one of the best back courts in the league. Mark West is very solid at C who is ranked the 7th best C in the league. Outside of these three there isnt much else. They give up 92 points a game but only put 89 points up of their own. Their FG% is at .433 which is the 3rd worst shooting % in the league. Strickland leads the league in minutes played and is 5th in assts. They have had a shaky start to the 2nd half of the season going 3-5 but look to move up the ladder behind the offense of Strickland and Blackman and the defense of Bol ( 2.6 blks), West (2.3 blks) and Herb Williams ( 1 blk).
20.
Milwaukee Bucks (-) 22-26
Team MVP - Reggie Lewis - 23 ppg, 7 brds, 2 assts ( 9 POG, 10 double doubles)
Another back court duo rule this team, Tim Hardaway (21 pts, 7 assts , stls) and Reggie Lewis are the heart and soul of the Bucks. They will go only as far as these two will take them. Unfortunately for them, its not that far. Jerome Kersey and Mike Giminski are the only other two players on this roster that can contribute, but even that isnt much. Rookie Sean Elliot and 2nd year player Willie Andersone are still a season or two away from helping and outside of Giminski, they dont have much up front.
19.
Buffalo Braves (20) 22-26
Team MVP - Charles Barkely - 23 points, 11 brds, 4.8 assts
( 10 POG, 27 double doubles, 1 triple double)
Charles and Mitch Richmond (17 pts, 4 brds, 2 assts) lead this team with the support of Blair Rasmussen (16 pts, 10 brds, 1 asst) and Lionel Simmons ( 13 pts, 7 brds, 3 assts). They have started the 2nd half off 4-3 and look to have everyone playing together for once. Charles Barkley has missed 10 games already this season and the team has also had Mo Cheeks ( 2), Mitch Richmond ( 4) and Rasmussen (5) miss games this season due to injury, for a team looking to win, that is the last thing they need. They dont have their 1st this season so winning is paramount. If they can stay healthy, it shouldnt be a problem.
18.
Minnesota Timberwolves (15) 22 - 26
Team MVP - Randy White 14 pts, 8 brds, 1 stl ( 2 POG, 14 double doubles)
They recently acquired Travis Mays and a couple of picks for Skiles and have since gone 8-6 with Mays winning the Rookie vs Sophmore MVP. For a team trying to lose they make awful losers lol. They still have a stack load of picks and cap room and have 4 players in Vaught, White, Burton and Mays who look like they have got some talent and could help them out next season. A big question is with all these 1sts next season, are these players now expenadable? Or will they be included in the rotation. They are still only 1.5 games out of the 8th seed, and with the unpredictability of the West, they could find themselves as the 5th seed come playoff time.
17.
Seattle Supersonics (6) 23-26
Team MVP - 22 pts, 10 brds, 1.1 blks ( 10 POGs, 29 double doubles)
3-5 to start the 2nd half of the season and 21 days left with Payton on the injured list. Tarpley is keeping this team together and carrying them on his back hoping they will help him out. Lets hope he doesnt crack under the pressure and turn to drugs
Before he got injured, the glove managed to secure ROM honours with stellar performances against the Twolves (18 pts, 11asts and 10 brds) and Bullets ( 14 pts 12 assts). John Starks and Derrick Mckey are solid contributors, however, if they can find more minutes for Dale Ellis, they could see their teams scoring averages rise. At 88.3 points a game, they are the third best at restricting their opposition but are 2nd to last in their own ppg. 16.
Houston Rockets (19) 23- 24
Team MVP - Kevin Johnson 14 pts, 7 assts, 2.3 stls and 51% shooting (7 POG, 11 double doubles)
This team moves up to 16 due to the teams balanced attack. They have 6 players averaging double digits and are shooting close to 46% from the field. They are 4-4 since the All Star Break 2-2 on the road. Turnovers and their post play are still a problem for them. They dont have a recognised PF and it shows with only 2.7 blocks per game. Duckworth isnt noted for his rebounding and they only have 4 players with B or better def ratings, KJ is their best defender with B+. Should they miss the postseason, the Rockets will be best served strengthening their front court. Drazen and KJ look like a solid back court and can be something they can build on.
15.
Utah Jazz (8) 23 -24
Team MVP - Rodney Mcray 24 pts, 8 brds, 3 assts ( 9 POG, 18 double doubles)
Rodney Mcray is just a beast and is loving being the centrepiece of this team and being rewarded with an All Star Game Spot. Everyone has been waiting for the wheels to finally fall off this wagon, but they arent showing any signs of coming off. If they do, the Jazz still have their own first and also the Knicks and Kings. They are still shooting the ball really well ( .451) and look after the ball real well. They have had good wins over the Bulls, Grizzlies and Kings since the All Star Break and are 16-5 at home. Their home record is awesome and if they can keep winning at home and secure a home playoff spot, they could open a few eyes!!
14.
Sacramento Kings (16) 24- 23
Team MVP- Magic Johnson - 13 pts, 10 assts, 6 brds , 1.9 stls (17 POG, 26 double doubles, 4 triple doubles)
The Kings have their C, PF, SF and PG in the top ten in their positions and are 3-7 in their last 10 games. Magic Johnson leads the league in assists and is 2nd only to Rod Strickland in minutes played. They have been missing Theus their last 4 games and during that stretch they have gone 1-3. They started the 2nd half of the season 1-5 where the Chief was out for the 1st 4 games and they went 0-4, they have 2 more days before Reggie Comes back. Kenny Gattison has been playing in Reggies place but he cant score like Theus does and that is what is sorely missed. Ron Harper has been playing well and who along with Danny Manning complete a very capable starting 5. All they need to do is go on a run and they could still secure a home semi!!
13.
Vancouver Grizzlies (12) 26- 25
Team MVP - Dominique Wilkins 26 pts, 10 brds, 4 assts ( 17 POG, 2 POW, 25 double doubles)
The Human Highlight film has been on fire as of late, with scoring outputs of 30,30,35, 27,35 and 23... Alot has been said about the what if Brad wasnt traded away, noone will know so with the roster in front of us the Grizzlies are still in the playoff race. Kevin Mchale is still 37 days away from returning to the playing roster and in his place Antoine Carr and Stacy King have been performing admirably. Isaiah Thomas and Rickey Pierce have stepped up in Mchales absence leading them to a 6-4 record in their last 10 games and 5th in the West. If they can keep winning and get Mchale back in time before the playoffs, they could be a pretty tough outfit to stop. Dominique is making a strong case for MVP, but has a tough challenge out East from a few other players.
12.
Boston Celtics (9) 24- 22
Team MVP - Larry Nance 17 pts, 9 assts, 2.8 blks, 1.2 stls ( 10 POG, 21 double doubles)
Larry Nance and Rony Seikaly have teamed to be a formiddable front court duo averaging 32 points and 20 brds between the two of them. Bernard King is mr automatic with 23 pts on 51% shooting, 5 brds and 3 assts. The strong play of Derek Harper and more importantly Jeff Hornacek has seen the Celtics go 6-4 in their last 10 and 13-8 at home. They have started the 2nd half of the season 4-4 but look to build momentum for the run into the playoffs, they had a tough loss vs the Raptors but went on to beat the Braves, Sonics and Lakers. Against the Spurs Jeff Hornacek had 14 pts, 11 brds, 9 asst and 6 stls, against Mark Jackson.
11.
Detroit Pistons(18) 21-18
Team MVP - Mark Price 19 pts, 7 assts, 2.7 stls , 3.9 brds (7 POG, 1 POW, 8 double doubles)
Glen Rice and Mark Price have carried this team to a 21-18 record, 6-4 in their last ten and 14 -7 at home. They are 4-2 to start the 2nd half of the season and have had good wins against Blazers , Spurs ( twice) and Rockets, losing to the Knicks and 6ers. Everyone else shares time on the court and they all pitch in with important minutes. Bullard, Massenburg, Oakley and Sikma all average at least 5 pts and 5 brds for the Pistons, thats very good production for bench players. This is a great example of individuals playing as a team, not a team of individuals. Days 100-107 will be important to watch, that is a road trip that could determine either a playoff spot or lottery.
10
San Antonio Spurs 24 21
Team MVP - cLYDE dREXLER 25 pts, 8 brds, 5 assts, 2 stls ( 15 POG, 19 Double doubles, 1 triple double)
The Spurs are atop the midwest division with a 24 -21 record, They have been 5-5 in their last 10 games and 13 -11 at home. The midwest division is a toss up where 6.5 games seperate 1st from 6th place. The Spurs have gone 3-3 and rely alot on Drexler to get them through games. They have three guys averaging 12.4 ppg and could do with a bit more production from Mark Jackson. They average 10 stls per game which is good enough for 3 rd in the league. The Spurs will only go as far as Drexler can take them, how far? That is entirely up to him.
9.
Los Angeles Clippers(13) 26 22
Team MVP - Terry Porter 14 pts, 10 assts, 2.4 stls ( 15 POG, 22 double doubles)
They are 6-4 in their last 10 and 15-8 at home. Porter, Willis and Tisdale are their main contributors and if you were to trade for one of them, it would be pretty tough to get them. Porter is in the top ten for Assts ( 4th), Stls ( 4th) and Mins(8th), whilst Tisdale is 6th on the seasons scoring average, 2nd in FG% and 7 in FG attempts per game from the SG position!!. They went 4 - 2 since the break ( 4-1 at home, 0-1 on the road) and lost to Eastern conference teams Raptors and the Knicks. Willis is out 4 more days where they play the Lakers, Warriors and Celtics.
8.
Atlanta Hawks (-)23 - 18
Team MVP - kARL Malone 30pts, 11 brds, 3.6 assts ( 22 POG, 31 double doubles, 1 triple double)
With Karl Malone you get a brute of a guy who will just outmuscle anyone who matches up against him. His team is 15-7 at home and has struggled as of late going 3-7 in their last 10 games. Their back court looks solid, but since the acquisition of Scott Skiles they have gone 4-7 and look like they are in need of a SG. His numbers look awesome but remember that those numbers are from his time with the wolves. Ken Norman and Olden Polynice are solid but not spectacular and it looks like the onus is on the Mailman to deliver more than he would like to. If Skiles can bring offense to the team, then the Hawks will be a threat, but if not, they could be in danger of slipping out of the playoff hunt.
7.
Indiana Pacers (7)31- 23
Team MVP - Joe Dumars 20 pts, 8 assts, 3 brds ( 10 POG, 1 POW, 20 double doubles)
21- 6 at home and have gone 4-6 in their last 10 games. Since they acquired Tom Chambers, the Pacers have gone 13 -12 but have been without Mullin for the last12 game. With his return I should think they could make a run for a home playoff.. Chambers gives them some versatility where he can either play SF or PF and should give them an offensive boost!! Laimbeer and Laselle Thompson are averaging double doubles and give this lineup a very good look about it. Perkins looks to come off the bench and provide a deep threat as well as post presence. They only have 28 games left in their season.
6.
New York Knicks (10)32 -23
Team MVP - Reggie Miller 25 pts, 4 brds, 4 assts ( 13 POG, 1 double double)
Led by Reggie Miller, the Knicks have had a so-so start to the 2nd half, going 4-5 with a 4-0 home record and an 0-5 road run. They allow only 90 ppg which is 4 th best in the league and are a very respectable 23-7 at home. Charles Smith and Sam Bowie are solid and keep their opposition in check most of the time. Rick Mahorn has been solid off the bench avging 7 pts and 6 brds in 17 minutes, very productive indeed. If one of their other players can catch fire and start scoring at a fast click, then watch out for these Knicks.
5.
Portland Trailblazers (-)27 19
Team MVP- Patrick Ewing 30 pts, 12 brds 3 blks ( 21 PG , 38 double doubles)
With the twin towers of Benoit Benjamin (13pts, 11 brds, 1.6 blks) and Ewing down low, you would find it hard to score inside against these guys. They allow a league leading 86.5 ppg and are in the top 10 in blks per game and assts per game. They are 7-3 in their last ten games and are 16-6 at home. T hurl Bailey has been out for the last 6 games and is out 6 more days with Henry James replacing him. Ty Corbin has been a very capable third option at 16 pts, 6 brds and 2 stls with Dee Brown putting up solid numbers. They have 5 road games and then another 5 at home, so without Thurl Bailey in the lineup, Henry James will need to step up big time.
4.
Washington Bullets (-)29 -20
Team MVP - Hakeem Olajuwon 32 pts, 13 brds, 4 assts, 4 blks ( 34 POG, 4 POW, 3 POM, 42 double doubles, 1 triple double)
Led by the probable league MVP, the Bullets are 6-4 in their last 10 games and 17 -8 at home. Olajuwons supporting cast includes PG Avery Johnson, Vernon Maxwell, Dana Barros and Terry Mills. They give up 90 ppg and shoot the ball at .453% and 10 stls a game. Since the break they have gone 5-1 with the only loss to the Dallas Mavericks. On any other team, this supporting cast wouldnt do much, but with Hakeem on their side, anything is possible.. Can they catch the Raptors? Only Hakeem can answer that.
3.
Philadelphia 76ers ( 2 )29- 15
Team MVP - David Robinson - 29 pts, 12 brds, 2 blks ( 23 POG, 32 double doubles, 1 Triple Double)
Tony Campbell, Mark Aguire and DRob run this team. Their def is the 3rd stingiest behind the Warriors and Blazers at 88.1 ppg. They shoot the ball at close to 47% and block a league leading 8 shots a game. Since the break they have gone 6-1 with their only loss coming at the hands of the Spurs. Gary Grant has been a solid pick up at PG with 9 assts and 2 stls per game . Dudley,Spencer and Cooper all share time up front and provide Robinson with some much needed inside help. The 6ers are only 7 games out of 1st in the East and could still make a run. Their TOPG have come down but are still somewhat high, at this point it doesnt seem to hurt the 6ers in any case.
2.
Golden State Warriors (1)35 16
Team MVP - bRAD Daugherty 32 pts, 10 brds, 3 assts ( 25 POG, 38 double doubles)
With a 35-16 record, the Warriors start slip to 2nd!! Stockton and Daugherty are proving to be an awesome duo and cant be stopped in the West. Stockton is averaging 13 pts, 10 asst and 2 stls a game along with two solid role players in Rodman and Curry, prove to be a tough lineup to break. Mark Eaton rounds out the starting 5 and a very big twin towers. They are 5 -1 since the break and are 2nd only to the blazers in points allowed per game. Brad Daugherty has really been a revelation and has helped this team go along way this season. They are 6-4 in their last ten and have the best home recored with 18-5 at home. Pencil in day 82 where the top of the West ( currently the Warriors ) take on the top of the East ( Currently the Raptors)
1.
Toronto Raptors (4)36- 8
Team MVP - Michael Jordan 33 pts, 7 brds, 4 assts , 2 stls ( 22 POG, 9 double doubles)
1st place goes to the Raptors, they have the best record, home record at 17-1 and road record at 19 -7. They have the scoring in Person and Jordan, the playmaking of Pooh Richardson and the interior def with Grant and Lang. Vern Flemming, Erick Leckner and Elden Campbell have been great off the bench and Jordan just makes the team better. If Jordan gets injured its game over. They lead the league in PPG, REB PG and are top ten in stls, blks, turnovers and assts. If they can keep this up they could go all the way, but thats a big IF..
Well thats all from me, Hope you enjoyed the rankings from 29 -1. This is Saga..etc.. signing off .. PEACE OUT!!!
