Post by GP on Jun 6, 2007 14:27:53 GMT -5
BBS Staff Writer Galo Pesantes
1- Chicago Bulls (35-11)- The best team in the league by far features two perennial MVP candidates in Elton Brand and Dirk Nowitzki. Not to mention new point guard Manu Ginobilli currently ranks No. 2 in assists in the league. Should be the favorites to win it all this year.
2- Toronto Raptors (31-9)- Last year's champions have not lost a step this year. Dwayne Wade has paired with point guard Gilbert Arenas to form the best backcourt in the Eastern Conference and possibly the league. The Raptors also feature a number of reserve shot blockers led by Fransico Elson, Nene, Robert Traylor and Vladimir Stephania.
3- Detroit Pistons (31-13)- Perhaps the only disappointment Detroit has faced this season has been the play of forward Alonzo Mourning. The former standout center from Georgetown is having his worse season statically in BBS history. Not to worry though, center Shaquille O’Neal has given plenty of support to his mate in the front court.
4- Phoenix Suns (38-19)- They currently hold the best conference home record when playing in the land of the Sun. Led by former Arizona guard Mike Bibby, this team rarely turn over the ball as they are third in the league with fewest turnovers. This team is still primed to be very good until four or five seasons down the line as they only have one starter over the age of 30.
5- Los Angeles Lakers (34-16)- One of the hotter teams in the West since the All-Star Break. The Lake show seems to have put it together despite reportedly putting Kobe Bryant on the trade block a few weeks ago. Look for GM Hernando to keep this team cruising all the way till the playoffs.
6- San Antonio Spurs (32-18)- You can argue that the Spurs are the most athletic team in the entire league with the lineup they put in night in and night out. On display are high risers Vince Carter and Shawn Marion and not to mention Oregon’s Fred Jones and point guard Chauncey Billups. First time all-start this year Mehmet Okur has really been a revelation to this team with his play this year.
7- Golden State Warriors (29-17)- Next to Wade and Arenas in Canada, Oakland may have the best backcourt in the Wild Wild West. Superstars Baron Davis and Tracy McGrady both are averaging over 20 a game while both shooting over 48% from the field. The Warriors also boast an emerging big man, Emeka Okafor who should hold down the paint for a number of years to come.
8- New York Knicks (30-18)- The two point guard system seems to be working in the Big Apple. They also have two of the most intimidating big men in the league in skyscraper Yao Ming and the bruising Ben Wallace. The Magic also are in good shape this off-season as they have both the Magic and Hornets picks.
9- Washington Wizards (28-18)- What a year forward Antoine Walker is having. After six lackluster seasons, Walker has bursted into having an MVP-caliber season with the Wiz this year. He and Pierce have lead the team in scoring but it would not hurt if this team added a third solid scorer to their impressive squad.
10- Houston Rockets (31-20)- The second Texas team to come in the top 10. The Rockets have hit sort of a dip recently splitting their last 10 but Houston remains strong after their first Finals trip last year. Although seemingly unliked throughout the league, Danny Fortson ranks in scoring and rebounds on the league scale. In addition, Tyson Chandler is having his best season as a Rocket so far this year.
11- Seattle Sonics (30-22)- Recently, the Sonics dealt Jason Richardson for another swingman, Richard Jefferson. The Sonics are still a strong team in the West but may benefit with a stronger option at power forward than Jamie Feick. Seattle may have to also spur the development of northwest product Luke Ridnour as he may take the reigns from incumbent Terrell Brandon at point guard next year.
12- Milwaukee Bucks (27-23)- Arguably one of the most disappointing teams in the league with their play so far this year still rank No. 12 on this poll. The Bucks are among four teams currently in the playoff race that have been outscored by their opponents. However in the Bucks’ defense, they are an extremely, young and talented team with potential to play spoiler in the playoffs with only two players on the roster over 30.
13- Indiana Pacers (26-22)- Another team that can be considered a bit of a disappointment are Duce’s Pacers. It seems that Indy’s biggest need may be the point guard spot where Troy Hudson seems to be getting the job done. With a roster filled with large contracts, this team may be trying to make a move near the deadline to improve the team in the backcourt.
14- New Orleans Hornets (27-28)- The hottest team in the East so far may be losing its assistant GM soon. However Chris Martinez and Spencer Martin have done an excellent job molding this team into a playoff contender this year. The team made a great signing of Joe Smith in the off-season and retained Joe Johnson who is having his best season as a pro in his third season in the NO.
15- Atlanta Hawks (24-28)- At the No. 15, the Hawks’ talent seem to drop off a bit from the rest of the teams so far. They have a decent team but no real talent outside of point guard and franchise player Steve Francis. Not to worry though, GM Bender has stockpiled three first round picks this season including their own which could very well end up in the lotto.
16- Miami Heat (21-25)- The Heat feature the poorman’s version of the Pacers’ frontcourt with Jermaine O’Neal and Pau Gasol. So far the Heat’s version has not really worked out and a deal may be imminent as this team lacks backcourt help. It would not surprise me with the deadline approaching that forward Pau Gasol, who’s in his contract year, changes addresses for a strong guard since Carlos Boozer may be able to handle his load.
17- Cleveland Cavaliers (21-28)- The Cavs may finally be recovering after years of suffering following their massive blunder trade with the Jazz for forward Juwan Howard near the beginning of BBS. They picked up the Leandro Barbosa, who is poised to have a monster season and still room to grow. In addition, Ben Gordon and Gerald Wallace are nice young pieces to build around but it may be time for the “Big Dog” Glenn Robinson to be dealt while he still holds value.
18- Los Angeles Clippers (20-27)- With three viable offensive weapons, the Clippers seem still be struggling to get their offense going. Point guard Andre Miller has been challenged to coordinate the offense but it has been difficult for the entire team so far. On the bright side, Rashard Lewis is having his best season scoring wise in his seventh season from high school.
19- Minnesota Timberwolves (21-29)- The Wolves may be on the decline soon as forward Michael “FinDog” Finley may be on the move. There is not much on the roster besides Finley, and their maybe no help on the horizon until 2007. Until then, GM KG will try to use cap room to lure some free agent prospects to Minny.
20- Orlando Magic (21-29)- After cashing in free agency with Lamar Odom, the Magic have not improved as much despite Odom having a great season. The front court seems to be set with Zach Randolph and Vitaly Potapenko but the backcourt is a mess with Redd still struggling to score in bunches and Mo Williams having to carry the load in only his second season.
21- Memphis Grizzlies (21-30)- The most controversial team in BBS appears to be due for an ownership change. The team does have talent to work around with a great young point guard in Tony Parker, shooting guard Ray Allen, and big man Shawn Kemp. However those pieces alone have not helped the Grizz enough perhaps although they are on a bit of a surge lately towards the playoffs, winning seven of their last 10.
22- Boston Celtics (23-33)- Beantown scored big by landing #1 pick Dwight Howard in the most recent draft. Since then, there has not much to talk about with the Celtics in mind. Like Robinson in Cleveland, Celts forward Jamal Mashburn should be moved to a contender while he still holds trade value. Boston should also add a nice player in the upcoming draft with their own pick.
23- Dallas Mavericks (21-32)- Another team that may have to blow up the team and start over. Forward Peja Stockovic may still have some value and should be traded to start the rebuild. In addition this team has some trade chips in big men Erick Dampier and Gary Trent. With the way things are going for this club, there may be more failures in the West.
24- New Jersey Nets (19-34)- Another young team still trying to find its way continues to operate this year with hope for next. Big man Zydraunas Illgauskas should be moved soon for picks and more young players that should help towards the future. Jersey also holds four first round picks with two projected lottos.
25- Sacramento Kings (17-32)- Former North Carolina guard Jerry Stackhouse may be the only big salary left on this once bloated payroll. His potential seems logical with the youth movement the Kings’ are attempting. Already on the roster are guard Devin Harris and forward Charlie Villanueva. The Kings also hold their own pick which is projected in the top 10.
26- Utah Jazz (18-35)- The Jazz is yet another team looking to rebuild with their own picks and young players. Two of the players they are trying to groom are guard Andre Iguodala and forward Al Jefferson. Those two along with their three picks in the next couple drafts should put the Jazz in position to be competitive soon.
27- Portland Trail Blazers (15-31)- Another team looking to build slowly but surely with their young players. The Blazers moved up to No. 3 pick in the most recent draft and took teenager Luol Deng and most recently dealt for guard Jason Richardson. With Stephon Marbury already on board, the Blazers may only need to improve their front court in the off-season.
28- Denver Nuggets (14-35)- Is LeBron James for real? Well not yet maybe but he will. The King is committing four turnovers a game which contributes to the rest of the team that ranks second worse in that category. This team may be very good if they improve their point guard and center play. But at the moment this team continues to suffer.
29- Philadelphia 76ers (9-36)- A once proud franchise that has sank to the bottom is trying to massively rebuild. The team that Dirk once called his own now has Corey Maggette as their best player. Philly seems to be going in the right direction with some nice players and some picks in this year’s draft.
1- Chicago Bulls (35-11)- The best team in the league by far features two perennial MVP candidates in Elton Brand and Dirk Nowitzki. Not to mention new point guard Manu Ginobilli currently ranks No. 2 in assists in the league. Should be the favorites to win it all this year.
2- Toronto Raptors (31-9)- Last year's champions have not lost a step this year. Dwayne Wade has paired with point guard Gilbert Arenas to form the best backcourt in the Eastern Conference and possibly the league. The Raptors also feature a number of reserve shot blockers led by Fransico Elson, Nene, Robert Traylor and Vladimir Stephania.
3- Detroit Pistons (31-13)- Perhaps the only disappointment Detroit has faced this season has been the play of forward Alonzo Mourning. The former standout center from Georgetown is having his worse season statically in BBS history. Not to worry though, center Shaquille O’Neal has given plenty of support to his mate in the front court.
4- Phoenix Suns (38-19)- They currently hold the best conference home record when playing in the land of the Sun. Led by former Arizona guard Mike Bibby, this team rarely turn over the ball as they are third in the league with fewest turnovers. This team is still primed to be very good until four or five seasons down the line as they only have one starter over the age of 30.
5- Los Angeles Lakers (34-16)- One of the hotter teams in the West since the All-Star Break. The Lake show seems to have put it together despite reportedly putting Kobe Bryant on the trade block a few weeks ago. Look for GM Hernando to keep this team cruising all the way till the playoffs.
6- San Antonio Spurs (32-18)- You can argue that the Spurs are the most athletic team in the entire league with the lineup they put in night in and night out. On display are high risers Vince Carter and Shawn Marion and not to mention Oregon’s Fred Jones and point guard Chauncey Billups. First time all-start this year Mehmet Okur has really been a revelation to this team with his play this year.
7- Golden State Warriors (29-17)- Next to Wade and Arenas in Canada, Oakland may have the best backcourt in the Wild Wild West. Superstars Baron Davis and Tracy McGrady both are averaging over 20 a game while both shooting over 48% from the field. The Warriors also boast an emerging big man, Emeka Okafor who should hold down the paint for a number of years to come.
8- New York Knicks (30-18)- The two point guard system seems to be working in the Big Apple. They also have two of the most intimidating big men in the league in skyscraper Yao Ming and the bruising Ben Wallace. The Magic also are in good shape this off-season as they have both the Magic and Hornets picks.
9- Washington Wizards (28-18)- What a year forward Antoine Walker is having. After six lackluster seasons, Walker has bursted into having an MVP-caliber season with the Wiz this year. He and Pierce have lead the team in scoring but it would not hurt if this team added a third solid scorer to their impressive squad.
10- Houston Rockets (31-20)- The second Texas team to come in the top 10. The Rockets have hit sort of a dip recently splitting their last 10 but Houston remains strong after their first Finals trip last year. Although seemingly unliked throughout the league, Danny Fortson ranks in scoring and rebounds on the league scale. In addition, Tyson Chandler is having his best season as a Rocket so far this year.
11- Seattle Sonics (30-22)- Recently, the Sonics dealt Jason Richardson for another swingman, Richard Jefferson. The Sonics are still a strong team in the West but may benefit with a stronger option at power forward than Jamie Feick. Seattle may have to also spur the development of northwest product Luke Ridnour as he may take the reigns from incumbent Terrell Brandon at point guard next year.
12- Milwaukee Bucks (27-23)- Arguably one of the most disappointing teams in the league with their play so far this year still rank No. 12 on this poll. The Bucks are among four teams currently in the playoff race that have been outscored by their opponents. However in the Bucks’ defense, they are an extremely, young and talented team with potential to play spoiler in the playoffs with only two players on the roster over 30.
13- Indiana Pacers (26-22)- Another team that can be considered a bit of a disappointment are Duce’s Pacers. It seems that Indy’s biggest need may be the point guard spot where Troy Hudson seems to be getting the job done. With a roster filled with large contracts, this team may be trying to make a move near the deadline to improve the team in the backcourt.
14- New Orleans Hornets (27-28)- The hottest team in the East so far may be losing its assistant GM soon. However Chris Martinez and Spencer Martin have done an excellent job molding this team into a playoff contender this year. The team made a great signing of Joe Smith in the off-season and retained Joe Johnson who is having his best season as a pro in his third season in the NO.
15- Atlanta Hawks (24-28)- At the No. 15, the Hawks’ talent seem to drop off a bit from the rest of the teams so far. They have a decent team but no real talent outside of point guard and franchise player Steve Francis. Not to worry though, GM Bender has stockpiled three first round picks this season including their own which could very well end up in the lotto.
16- Miami Heat (21-25)- The Heat feature the poorman’s version of the Pacers’ frontcourt with Jermaine O’Neal and Pau Gasol. So far the Heat’s version has not really worked out and a deal may be imminent as this team lacks backcourt help. It would not surprise me with the deadline approaching that forward Pau Gasol, who’s in his contract year, changes addresses for a strong guard since Carlos Boozer may be able to handle his load.
17- Cleveland Cavaliers (21-28)- The Cavs may finally be recovering after years of suffering following their massive blunder trade with the Jazz for forward Juwan Howard near the beginning of BBS. They picked up the Leandro Barbosa, who is poised to have a monster season and still room to grow. In addition, Ben Gordon and Gerald Wallace are nice young pieces to build around but it may be time for the “Big Dog” Glenn Robinson to be dealt while he still holds value.
18- Los Angeles Clippers (20-27)- With three viable offensive weapons, the Clippers seem still be struggling to get their offense going. Point guard Andre Miller has been challenged to coordinate the offense but it has been difficult for the entire team so far. On the bright side, Rashard Lewis is having his best season scoring wise in his seventh season from high school.
19- Minnesota Timberwolves (21-29)- The Wolves may be on the decline soon as forward Michael “FinDog” Finley may be on the move. There is not much on the roster besides Finley, and their maybe no help on the horizon until 2007. Until then, GM KG will try to use cap room to lure some free agent prospects to Minny.
20- Orlando Magic (21-29)- After cashing in free agency with Lamar Odom, the Magic have not improved as much despite Odom having a great season. The front court seems to be set with Zach Randolph and Vitaly Potapenko but the backcourt is a mess with Redd still struggling to score in bunches and Mo Williams having to carry the load in only his second season.
21- Memphis Grizzlies (21-30)- The most controversial team in BBS appears to be due for an ownership change. The team does have talent to work around with a great young point guard in Tony Parker, shooting guard Ray Allen, and big man Shawn Kemp. However those pieces alone have not helped the Grizz enough perhaps although they are on a bit of a surge lately towards the playoffs, winning seven of their last 10.
22- Boston Celtics (23-33)- Beantown scored big by landing #1 pick Dwight Howard in the most recent draft. Since then, there has not much to talk about with the Celtics in mind. Like Robinson in Cleveland, Celts forward Jamal Mashburn should be moved to a contender while he still holds trade value. Boston should also add a nice player in the upcoming draft with their own pick.
23- Dallas Mavericks (21-32)- Another team that may have to blow up the team and start over. Forward Peja Stockovic may still have some value and should be traded to start the rebuild. In addition this team has some trade chips in big men Erick Dampier and Gary Trent. With the way things are going for this club, there may be more failures in the West.
24- New Jersey Nets (19-34)- Another young team still trying to find its way continues to operate this year with hope for next. Big man Zydraunas Illgauskas should be moved soon for picks and more young players that should help towards the future. Jersey also holds four first round picks with two projected lottos.
25- Sacramento Kings (17-32)- Former North Carolina guard Jerry Stackhouse may be the only big salary left on this once bloated payroll. His potential seems logical with the youth movement the Kings’ are attempting. Already on the roster are guard Devin Harris and forward Charlie Villanueva. The Kings also hold their own pick which is projected in the top 10.
26- Utah Jazz (18-35)- The Jazz is yet another team looking to rebuild with their own picks and young players. Two of the players they are trying to groom are guard Andre Iguodala and forward Al Jefferson. Those two along with their three picks in the next couple drafts should put the Jazz in position to be competitive soon.
27- Portland Trail Blazers (15-31)- Another team looking to build slowly but surely with their young players. The Blazers moved up to No. 3 pick in the most recent draft and took teenager Luol Deng and most recently dealt for guard Jason Richardson. With Stephon Marbury already on board, the Blazers may only need to improve their front court in the off-season.
28- Denver Nuggets (14-35)- Is LeBron James for real? Well not yet maybe but he will. The King is committing four turnovers a game which contributes to the rest of the team that ranks second worse in that category. This team may be very good if they improve their point guard and center play. But at the moment this team continues to suffer.
29- Philadelphia 76ers (9-36)- A once proud franchise that has sank to the bottom is trying to massively rebuild. The team that Dirk once called his own now has Corey Maggette as their best player. Philly seems to be going in the right direction with some nice players and some picks in this year’s draft.