RISE UP! A Cleveland Cavaliers Dynasty (RETIRED)

[newc]

i reallly like these season, team previews, great job Davis staying in GS - just great

[Fresh8]

I love the recaps man! Keep it up!

[homicide1550]

WESTERN CONFERENCE


NORTHWEST DIVISION
Projected Order Of Finish

1. Utah Jazz
2. Portland Trail Blazers
3. Minnesota Timberwolves
4. Denver Nuggets
5. Oklahoma City Thunder


Team-By-Team Previews


COACH: Jerry Sloan | RECORD: 47-35


Utah's bench needs to step up for them to secure the top
spot in the Northwest.



PG Deron Williams
SG Kyle Korver
SF Andrei Kirilenko
PF Carlos Boozer
C Mehmet Okur
----------
F Paul Millsap
F Renaldo Balkman
F Matt Harpring
G Ronnie Price



F Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (Draft)
C Serge Ibaka (Draft)



G C.J. Miles (Free Agent)
C Pat Burke (Free Agent)



PPG Deron Williams 22.9
RPG Mehmet Okur 10.5
APG Deron Williams 8.6
SPG Deron Williams 1.94
BPG Andrei Kirilenko 2.43



The Utah Jazz have one of the best starting fives in the NBA, led of course by star point guard Deron Williams and power forward Carlos Boozer. Their problem lies in their rather shallow bench. Other than Paul Millsap, almost everyone on their second unit is mediocre at best. But as we all know Jerry Sloan, he'll surely find a way to get the best from his players and that's why we think the Jazz are going to win the Northwest.



COACH: Nate McMillan | RECORD: 35-47


Brandon Roy was last year's best 6th man but he needs to
start for Portland to further improve their standing.



PG Steve Blake
SG Brandon Roy
SF Travis Outlaw
PF LaMarcus Aldridge
C Greg Oden
----------
F Martell Webster
G James Jones
C Joel Przybilla
G Jarrett Jack
F Darius Miles



G JuJuan Smith (Draft)
F Kai Zhang (Draft)



G Sergio Rodriguez (Free Agent)
G Von Wafer (Free Agent)



PPG Travis Outlaw 15.5
RPG Greg Oden 10.1
APG Steve Blake 5.7
SPG Travis Outlaw 1.55
BPG Travis Outlaw 1.94



Portland has youth, talent and tons of upsides. If they can play to their potential, this team will definitely be tough to beat and this could very well be the year it happens. Slowly but surely the Trail Blazers are improving, Nate McMillan should let Brandon Roy start instead of being a sixth man if they want to finish with a better record and reach the playoffs.



COACH: Kevin McHale | RECORD: 23-59


Michael Beasley posterizes a hapless Starbury during
preseason action as Al Jefferson looks on.



PG Sebastian Telfair
SG Rashad McCants
SF Corey Brewer
PF Michael Beasley
C Al Jefferson
----------
G Rudy Fernandez
G Daniel Gibson
G Randy Foye
F Stromile Swift
G Craig Smith



F Michael Beasley (Draft)
F Nicolas Batum (Draft)
G Daniel Gibson (Free Agent)
G Hassan Adams (Free Agent)
F Rob Kurz (Free Agent)



F Ryan Gomes (Free Agent)
F Kirk Snyder (Free Agent)
G Dan Dickau (Free Agent)
C Michael Doleac (Free Agent)
F Chris Richard (Free Agent)



PPG Al Jefferson 18.0
RPG Al Jefferson 10.6
APG Rashad McCants 5.9
SPG Al Jefferson 1.5
BPG Stromile Swift 1.49



Picking Kansas State's Michael Beasley in the draft immediately improves this team. Beasley will team up with Al Jefferson with hopes of bringing the Timberwolves back into playoff contention. They signed sharp shooting guard Daniel Gibson to further improve their second unit which already boasts Spanish star Rudy Fernandez. Minnesota could be one of the surprise teams this upcoming season.



COACH: George Karl | RECORD: 48-34


A.I. and Melo shaved their trademark braids for buzz cuts to
signal their new business-like approach to the game.



PG D.J. Augustin
SG Allen Iverson
SF Carmelo Anthony
PF Kenyon Martin
C Nene
----------
F Linas Kleiza
C Robert Swift
G Chucky Atkins



G D.J. Augustin (Draft)
G Dion Dowell (Draft)
C Robert Swift (Free Agent)
G Jeremy Richardson (Free Agent)



C Marcus Camby (Retired)
G Anthony Carter (Free Agent)
G J.R. Smith (Free Agent)
F Eduardo Najera (Free Agent)
F Yakhouba Diawara (Free Agent)



PPG Allen Iverson 22.5
RPG Marcus Camby 11.8
APG Allen Iverson 8.6
SPG Allen Iverson 2.23
BPG Marcus Camby 2.12



The Denver Nuggets may miss the playoffs for the first time since the Carmelo Anthony-era. They lost a number of their key players during the offseason. Marcus Camby retired and they failed to re-sign J.R. Smith and Anthony Carter to new contracts. Anthony and Iverson needs to do a little bit more if they want to stay competitive this season and maybe chase the 8th spot in the West.



COACH: Scott Brooks | RECORD: 23-59


Durantula spent hours on the gym this summer to add more
bulk to his rather skinny physique.



PG Luke Ridnour
SG Kevin Durant
SF Jeff Green
PF Matt Barnes
C Nick Collison
----------
G Damien Wilkins
F Brandon Bass
F Donyell Marshall
C Francisco Elson
G Earl Watson



G Dontell Jefferson (Draft)
F Matt Barnes (Free Agent)
F Brandon Bass (Trade)



F Bostjan Nachbar (Free Agent)
G Mickael Gelabale (Free Agent)
C Earl Barron (Free Agent)



PPG Kevin Durant 21.2
RPG Nick Collison 8.4
APG Kevin Durant 7.5
SPG Kevin Durant 1.5
BPG Kevin Durant 1.99



Under a new name and playing for a new city makes everyone in their lineup excited and nervous as well. The management had a poor draft but made things up when they lured Matt Barnes and Brandon Bass into playing for them. But amidst all these signings, it is still Kevin Durant's team as he hopes to elevate his play even more after winning the Rookie of the Year last season. The Thunder are probably two or three years away from playoff contention but Oklahomans are just thrilled to finally have their own basketball team in the NBA.

[homicide1550]

Damn, the Suns look great with Mayo and Greene from the draft and the main core staying.

I wouldve put them in the top spot if only the Lakers weren't the defending champs..

Suns are looking sharp; just to clarify this is pre J-Rich trade yes? and BD stayed with Golden State - damn him ah well, at least i get to live what should've/could've/would've been through your dynasty. sigh.

awesome job all n' all previews take a ton of work to do as well as you've done

Nope.. its post J-Rich trade, he is with the Bobcats... Comparing last years lineup with the current roster is takes quite some time but I enjoy what I do..

Ah, loving the Suns lineup... looking forward to the other divisions.

They are one of the strongest teams this season..

i reallly like these season, team previews, great job Davis staying in GS - just great

Yup, no major free agent changed teams this offseason..

(Y) I love the recaps man! Keep it up!

Thanks!

[homicide1550]

WESTERN CONFERENCE


SOUTHWEST DIVISION
Projected Order Of Finish

1. San Antonio Spurs
2. New Orleans Hornets
3. Houston Rockets
4. Dallas Mavericks
5. Memphis Grizzlies


Team-By-Team Previews


COACH: Gregg Popovich | RECORD: 49-33


Tim Duncan is arguably the best power forward in the game
today.



PG Tony Parker
SG Manu Ginobili
SF Ime Udoka
PF Matt Bonner
C Tim Duncan
----------
C Kurt Thomas
C Fabricio Oberto
F Darell Arthur
G C.J. Miles
G Jacque Vaughn



C DeAndre Jordan (Draft)
F Darell Arthur (Draft)
G C.J. Miles (Free Agent)



F Bruce Bowen (Retired)
G Michael Finley (Free Agent)
G Damon Stoudamire (Free Agent)
F Robert Horry (Free Agent)
G Brent Barry (Free Agent)



PPG Tim Duncan 23.3
RPG Tim Duncan 13.2
APG Tony Parker 10.3
SPG Manu Ginobili 2.09
BPG Tim Duncan 2.04



The Spurs lost some of their veterans during the offseason and it seems like their lineup is a little too clogged up in the center position. They either have to trade for some of them or sign new players during the season. Matt Bonner and Ime Udoka will probably have a breakthrough season since they will see major minutes during a game. As long as Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili are wearing a San Antonio uniform, you can expect them to be one of the top teams in the league.



COACH: Byron Scott | RECORD: 43-39


Chris Paul protects the ball against Nene by switching it to
his left hand.



PG Chris Paul
SG Morris Peterson
SF Peja Stojakovic
PF David West
C Tyson Chandler
----------
G Mike James
F Julian Wright
G Bill Walker
G Rasual Butler
F Hilton Armstrong



F Bill Walker (Draft)
F Sonny Weems (Draft)



F Bonzi Wells (Free Agent)
C Chris Andersen (Free Agent)
G Jannero Pargo (Free Agent)
F Ryan Bowen (Free Agent)



PPG Peja Stojakovic 22.3
RPG Tyson Chandler 10.0
APG Chris Paul 8.3
SPG Morris Peterson 1.94
BPG Tyson Chandler 1.69



The New Orleans Hornets had the same record with the Lakers last season but missed the playoffs due to tiebreakers. This year, premier point guard Chris Paul will try to lead his Hornets and win more games to avoid another heartbreaking finish at season's end . The team lost some valuable players but they are hoping that their younger guys like Julian Wright and Hilton Armstrong will develop quickly and help them in their quest to make the playoffs.



COACH: Rick Adelman | RECORD: 40-42


T-Mac needs shoots a tough fadeaway over two defenders.



PG Rafer Alston
SG Tracy McGrady
SF Shane Battier
PF Luis Scola
C Yao Ming
----------
G Steve Francis
G Aaron Brooks
F Carl Landry
G Luther Head
C Roy Hibbert



C Roy Hibbert (Draft)
G Sean Singletary (Draft)



G Devin Brown (Free Agent)
F Chuck Hayes (Free Agent)
C Justin Williams (Free Agent)
F Steve Novak (Free Agent)
F James White (Free Agent)



PPG Tracy McGrady 23.8
RPG Yao Ming 10.0
APG Tracy McGrady 8.4
SPG Tracy McGrady 2.07
BPG Tracy McGrady 1.82



Tracy McGrady had an amazing all-around season last year but it still wasn't enough to propel the Rockets into the playoffs, which just proves that he needs a lot of help from his teammates. Chinese superstar Yao Ming needs to be more aggressive this season both offensively and defensively if they want to be successful. Former franchise player Steve Francis also has to continue being a force for their second unit and be a leader for the younger players.




COACH: Rick Carlisle | RECORD: 51-31


This will be the second season that Dirk Nowitzki and Jason
Kidd will team up and could be their toughest one yet.



PG Jason Kidd
SG Jason Terry
SF Josh Howard
PF Dirk Nowitzki
C Erik Dampier
----------
G Antoine Wright
C Ronny Turiaf
G DeMarcus Nelson
F Demetris Nichols



G Joe Crawford (Draft)
G Blake Ahearn (Draft)
F Ronny Turiaf (Free Agent)
F Awvee Storey (Free Agent)
F Demetris Nichols (Free Agent)
G DeMarcus Nelson (Trade)



G Eddie Jones (Retired)
F Juwan Howard (Retired)
F Jerry Stackhouse (Free Agent)
F Devean George (Free Agent)
G Tyronn Lue (Free Agent)
C Jamaal Magloire (Free Agent)
G J.J. Barea (Free Agent)
F Malik Allen (Free Agent)
F Brandon Bass (Trade)



PPG Dirk Nowitzki 27.1
RPG Dirk Nowitzki / Erick Dampier 10.0
APG Jason Kidd 8.8
SPG Jason Terry 1.90
BPG Josh Howard 1.56



Mark Cuban must be having nightmares up to now after losing almost everyone in the team's bench rotation either by retirement or bolting to free agency. If we look closely, only Antoine Wright remains on their bench from last season and he wasn't even part of the regular rotation. The Mavericks maybe heading for the lottery this season after being a playoffs contender for the longest time. Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd definitely have their works cut out for them.



COACH: Lionel Hollins | RECORD: 36-46


Rudy Gay shows off his athleticism with this exciting
breakaway slam.



PG Mike Conley
SG Mike Miller
SF Rudy Gay
PF Hakim Warrick
C Kwame Brown
----------
G Kyle Lowry
G J.C. Navarro
F Danilo Gallinari
F Chris Andersen
C Darko Milicic



C Chris Andersen (Free Agent)
G Tyronn Lue (Free Agent)



G Casey Jacobsen (Free Agent)
G Andre Brown (Free Agent)
C Jason Collins (Free Agent)



PPG Mike Miller 22.9
RPG Hakim Warrick 8.7
APG Mike Conley 7.3
SPG Rudy Gay 1.66
BPG Rudy Gay 1.79



The Grizzlies have raw and explosive young talents in their roster. They added energetic big man Chris Andersen to fuel their second unit that is headed by international stars, J.C. Navarro and Danilo Gallinari. They have a complete lineup and it may improve their wins total to at least 40. They will be one of the most exciting teams to watch this season.

[Its_asdf]

Very nice clean presentation. Hopefully it's not too time consuming because I love the attention to detail on the previews.

[kibaxx7]

Nice Rudy Gay slam pic. The Grizz have an athletic roster, I like it.

[Martti.]

Hibbert is good for the Rockets. Cuban swapped all his bench for a new one

[homicide1550]

EASTERN CONFERENCE


ATLANTIC DIVISION
Projected Order Of Finish

1. Boston Celtics
2. Toronto Raptors
3. New Jersey Nets
4. New York Knicks
5. Philadelphia 76ers


Team-By-Team Previews


COACH: Doc Rivers | RECORD: 45-28


The Big Three will once again try to give Bean Town their
17th championship.



PG Rajon Rondo
SG Ray Allen
SF Paul Pierce
PF Glen Davis
C Kevin Garnett
----------
G Thabo Sefolosha
G Tony Allen
C Kendrick Perkins
C Kosta Koufos
F Leon Poew



C Kosta Koufos (Draft)
G Dan Grunfeld (Draft)



C P.J. Brown (Retired)
F James Posey (Free Agent)
G Sam Cassell (Free Agent)
C Scott Pollard (Free Agent)



PPG Kevin Garnett 27.4
RPG Kevin Garnett 11.5
APG Ray Allen 9.1
SPG Paul Pierce 2.09
BPG Kevin Garnett 2.0



The Boston Celtics were devastated last season when they failed to reach their goal of winning the NBA championship. The Big Three now has a year under their belt, they know each one's tendencies which makes them harder to defeat. The problem lies in Boston's bench. They lost James Posey, Sam Cassell and P.J. Brown, who were major contributors for them last season. Thabo Sefolosha, Tony Allen and Kendrick Perkins needs to play a little harder to fill the gaps that were left by these players.



COACH: Jay Triano | RECORD: 39-43


Chris Bosh needs to dominate the paint for the Raptors to be
successful this season.



PG T.J. Ford
SG Anthony Parker
SF Jamario Moon
PF Andrea Bargnani
C Chris Bosh
----------
G Jose Calderon
F Joey Graham
F Kris Humphries
F Jorge Garbajosa
F Jason Kapono



C JaVale McGee (Draft)
G Malik Hairston (Draft)



G Carlos Delfino (Free Agent)
C Primoz Brezec (Free Agent)
F Maceo Baston (Free Agent)
G Darrick Martin (Free Agent)



PPG Chris Bosh 26.2
RPG Chris Bosh 10.3
APG T.J. Ford 8.1
SPG Anthony Parker 1.74
BPG Jamario Moon 1.88



Toronto is poised to return to the playoffs after a missing it last season. They retained their core lineup led of course by Olympic gold medalist Chris Bosh and point guard T.J. Ford. The only thing missing with this team is some post presence because they are filled with big men who loves playing on the outside. They have to address this issue if they want to contend against their division rival, the Boston Celtics.



COACH: Lawrence Frank | RECORD: 34-48


Nets fans are hoping that "The Blur" can bring them back to
playoffs contention.



PG Devin Harris
SG Vince Carter
SF Richard Jefferson
PF Sean Williams
C Brook Lopez
----------
G Marcus Williams
G Marko Jaric
C DeSagana Diop
C Josh Boone
F Ryan Anderson



C Brook Lopez (Draft)
F Ryan Anderson (Draft)



G Darell Armstrong (Retired)
F Keith Van Horn (Free Agent)
C Robert Swift (Free Agent)
F Nenad Krstic (Free Agent)



PPG Vince Carter 22.6
RPG DeSagana Diop 9.1
APG Devin Harris 7.0
SPG Vince Carter 2.04
BPG DeSagana Diop 1.64



The Nets struggled season mainly because it was Devin Harris' first year with the team. This year New Jersey is looking to make a push for the playoffs with Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson leading the team. They had a good draft as they acquired big man Brook Lopez and forward Ryan Anderson which immediately improves their lineup. The team might slip into the second spot in the Atlantic division if they can find the chemistry early in the season.



COACH: Mike D' Antoni | RECORD: 39-43


Starbury and Mike D' Antoni are hoping that their reunion
can bring back the Knicks' glory days.



PG Stephon Marbury
SG Jamal Crawford
SF Quentin Richardson
PF Zach Randolph
C Eddy Curry
----------
G Nate Robinson
F David Lee
G Ronnie Brewer
F Kevin Love



G Anthony Randolph (Draft)
G Kevin Love (Draft)



G Fred Jones (Free Agent)
F Randolph Morris (Free Agent)
C Jerome James (Free Agent)



PPG Jamal Crawford 22.1
RPG Zach Randolph 9.4
APG Jamal Crawford 7.7
SPG Jamal Crawford 1.80
BPG Eddy Curry 1.2



Mike D' Antoni will be bringing his famous uptempo system to the struggling New York franchise. Last year, D' Antoni led the Suns to the best record in the league but were eliminated in the first round by the Lakers. He reunites with former players, Stephon Marbury and Quentin Richardson who played for him when he was with Phoenix. This could be the year the Knicks returns to the playoffs, they certainly have the talent to make it happen.



COACH: Tony DiLeo | RECORD: 28-54


Iguodala is the lone bright spot for the 76ers.



PG Andre Miller
SG Andre Iguodala
SF Thaddeus Young
PF Reggie Evans
C Samuel Dalembert
----------
G Louis Williams
G Willie Green
G Beno Udrih
F Rodney Carney
C Jason Smith



F D.J. White (Draft)
F Walter Sharpe (Draft)
C Semih Erden (Free Agent)
G Beno Udrih (Free Agent)
F Donta Smith (Free Agent)



F Herbert Hill (Free Agent)
C Calvin Booth (Free Agent)
G Kevin Ollie (Free Agent)
F Louis Amundson (Free Agent)
F Shavlik Randolph (Free Agent)



PPG Andre Iguodala 24.9
RPG Samuel Dalembert 9.4
APG Andre Iguodala 7.8
SPG Andre Iguodala 1.77
BPG Samuel Dalembert 1.73



Andre Iguodala had a career season highlighted by being voted as a starter for the East All-Stars but his team had the third worst record in the NBA. Iggy needs some help from his teammates to avoid another disastrous season. Philadelphia signed another point guard in Beno Udrih during the and will battle Louis Williams for the backup role for Andre Miller. Sixers fans may be looking at another disappointing season.

[homicide1550]

Very nice clean presentation. Hopefully it's not too time consuming because I love the attention to detail on the previews.

Thanks, its not that time consuming once you get the hang of it..

Nice Rudy Gay slam pic. The Grizz have an athletic roster, I like it.

I also like how the pic turned out.. Memphis have a talented roster and could be a surprise team this season, kinda like the Bobcats last season..

Hibbert is good for the Rockets. Cuban swapped all his bench for a new one

Hibbert will be a good backup to Yao.. Dallas was once a contender but right now I don't think they can even reach the playoffs, the West is too tough...

[XpLosibo]

awesome job on this updates, off-season is really one of my fave parts of the game.. hope u also make a story on their salaries/salary cap

[[Hyperize]]

Good job on the Season Previews. Keep it up.

[Clutch]

kevin love/anthony randolf are some nice fresh faces for the Knicks; should provide some good energy off the bench

[kibaxx7]

Wow nice... both Love and Randolph on NY... Don't stop bro, this is HOF material

[kevin02]

Nice Job on the off season so far this is probally my favorite part of NBA Live.

[homicide1550]

EASTERN CONFERENCE


CENTRAL DIVISION
Projected Order Of Finish

1. Detroit Pistons
2. Cleveland Cavaliers
3. Chicago Bulls
4. Indiana Pacers
5. Milwaukee Bucks


Team-By-Team Previews


COACH: Michael Curry | RECORD: 51-31


Detroit retained their core and added a great young player
in Derrick Rose which makes them a lot more dangerous.



PG Chauncey Billups
SG Derrick Rose
SF Rip Hamilton
PF Tayshaun Prince
C Rasheed Wallace
----------
F Antonio McDyess
G Rodney Stuckey
F Jason Maxiell
F Jarvis Hayes
G Aaron Afflalo



G Derrick Rose (Draft)
F Steven Hill (Draft)
F Charles Rhodes (Draft)



C Theo Ratliff (Retired)
F Walter Herrmann (Free Agent)



PPG Chauncey Billups 23.8
RPG Rasheed Wallace 11.7
APG Rip Hamilton 8.4
SPG Rip Hamilton 1.88
BPG Rasheed Wallace 1.96



The Pistons are considered to be one of the teams to beat in the East. The first pick of the draft, Derrick Rose, is in an enviable situation. Not only is he in a contender but he'll learn the ropes from former Finals MVP Chauncey Billups. The core lineup of Detroit is still intact, losing only 2 players from last year's roster. It is now up to their new coach, Michael Curry to draw the plays up and get the best out of everyone.



COACH: Mike Brown | RECORD: 46-36


This will be the first full season James and Redd will suit up
together for the Cavs.



PG Delonte West
SG Michael Redd
SF LeBron James
PF Ben Wallace
C Zydrunas Ilgauskas
----------
G Sasha Pavlovic
F Jason Thompson
G Roger Mason
G Ramon Sessions
F Josh Powell



F Jason Thompson (Draft)
G Bobby Brown (Draft)
F J.J. Hickson (Free Agent)
G Roger Mason (Free Agent)
F Josh Powell (Free Agent)
G Von Wafer (Free Agent)



G Penny Hardaway (Retired)
C Dikembe Mutombo (Retired)
F Gerald Green (Free Agent)
F Joe Smith (Free Agent)
C Dwayne Jones (Free Agent)
C Jake Voskuhl (Free Agent)



PPG LeBron James 30.4
RPG Zydrunas Ilgauskas 8.7
APG LeBron James 8.4
SPG LeBron James 2.32
BPG LeBron James 1.93



The Cavaliers looks a whole lot different from last year as they have 6 new additions to the roster while also losing six. Veterans Penny Hardaway and Dikembe Mutombo retired, while Gerald Green and Joe Smith wasn't able to agree on a new contract. Olympic gold medalists, LeBron James and Michael Redd will try to duplicate their success in Beijing by giving Cleveland its first championship but will probably need some tweaks to the roster for it to happen.



COACH: Vinny Del Negro | RECORD: 42-40


Gordon continues to be Chicago's main offensive weapon.



PG Kirk Hinrich
SG Ben Gordon
SF Luol Deng
PF Drew Gooden
C Joachim Noah
----------
F Andres Nocioni
G Larry Hughes
F Tyrus Thomas
G Shannon Brown
C Marc Gasol



C Marc Gasol (Draft)
G Anthony Morray (Draft)
F James White (Free Agent)



G Chris Duhon (Free Agent)
G Eddie House (Free Agent)
F Demetris Nichols (Free Agent)
F Cedric Simmons (Free Agent)



PPG Ben Gordon 20.4
RPG Joakim Noah 9.9
APG Ben Gordon 7.2
SPG Joakim Noah 1.74
BPG Luol Deng 1.56



The Chicago Bulls' future is now set after deciding to keep Ben Gordon, Andres Nocioni and Luol Deng by signing them to multiple year deals. This move allows them to remain competitive in the East and contend for a playoffs spot for years to come. They are 2 or 3 pieces away from a becoming a title contender and of course, their young players needs to develop a lot quicker.



COACH: Jim O' Brien | RECORD: 39-43


Granger and O' Neal are the two faces of the Pacers franchise.



PG Jamaal Tinsley
SG Mike Dunleavy
SF Danny Granger
PF Ike Diogu
C Jermaine O' Neal
----------
G Marquis Daniels
G Flip Murray
F Shawne Williams
C Jeff Foster



G Jerryd Bayless (Draft)
G Chris Douglas-Roberts (Draft)



G Jason Williams (Free Agent)
C David Harrison (Free Agent)
F Stephen Graham (Free Agent)
G Andre Owens (Free Agent)



PPG Jermaine O' Neal 21.7
RPG Jermaine O' Neal 11.3
APG Jamaal Tinsley 10.4
SPG Mike Dunleavy 1.90
BPG Danny Granger 1.94



The Pacers barely made the playoffs last season, thankfully they had won most of the tiebreakers which gave them the right to enter the postseason. This year, they have to work a little bit harder to ensure them a return to the playoffs. Surprisingly, they picked two guards from the draft and now have a logjam at that position. Danny Granger needs to take his game a step further to keep Indiana from becoming a lottery team.



COACH: Scott Skiles | RECORD: 31-51


Mo Williams may need to carry this Bucks team all throughout
the course of this season.



PG Mo Williams
SG Wally Szczerbiak
SF Desmond Mason
PF Charlie Villanueva
C Andrew Bogut
----------
G Russell Westbrook
F Yi Jianlian
C Anderson Varejao
F Bobby Simmons
G Charlie Bell



G Russell Westbrook (Draft)
F Patrick Ewing (Draft)



G Daniel Gibson (Free Agent)
G Royal Ivey (Free Agent)
G Hassan Adams (Free Agent)
F Michael Ruffin (Free Agent)
F Awvee Storey (Free Agent)



PPG Mo Williams 20.0
RPG Andrew Bogut 9.3
APG Mo Williams 5.8
SPG Desmond Mason 1.46
BPG Andrew Bogut 1.71



No doubt, this is another lottery year for the Milwaukee Bucks. After trading franchise player Michael Redd last season, it has all been downhill for this franshise. They do have some nice young talents in Mo Williams, Andrew Bogut and uber athletic rookie Russell Westbrook to keep them relevant to the league. The team is officially in a rebuilding stage.

[homicide1550]

awesome job on this updates, off-season is really one of my fave parts of the game.. hope u also make a story on their salaries/salary cap

Salary cap is almost irrelevant in Live, I think there is only 2 or 3 teams that aren't over the cap so it's hard to make a story out of it.. But I'm thinking of adjusting the cap and maybe add 10 or 20 million.. I just hate it when some good players are left out in the free agents pool...

Good job on the Season Previews. Keep it up.

Thanks!

kevin love/anthony randolf are some nice fresh faces for the Knicks; should provide some good energy off the bench

The Knicks kinda have a logjam in the forwards dept. so I guess they might not have too much playing time except for maybe Kevin Love..

Wow nice... both Love and Randolph on NY... Don't stop bro, this is HOF material

Thanks for the kind words.. Appreciate it...

Nice Job on the off season so far this is probally my favorite part of NBA Live.

Me too..

[Clutch]

solid

only move i'd make different is starting JT at PF, bringing Big Ben off the bench at C to conserve the ol' timer's energy; but man your team got small quick-style; a couple of long-term injuries to your bigs might make or break your season

Rose to the pistons is HOT! I'm first on that bandwagon - "DEEETROIT BASSSKETBAAALLL!!!"

[Martti.]

Damn, Detroit gonna win it all this year. Unless you stop them.

[kibaxx7]

Man, which Live are the pics from? Looks tight.

[Its_asdf]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jason Thompson snatch the starting spot from Big Ben as the season winds down. I like how Indiana is starting Ike Diogu, but where's Troy Murphy?

[homicide1550]

EASTERN CONFERENCE


SOUTHEAST DIVISION
Projected Order Of Finish

1. Charlotte Bobcats
2. Orlando Magic
3. Washington Wizards
4. Miami Heat
5. Atlanta Hawks


Team-By-Team Previews


COACH: Larry Brown | RECORD: 47-35


Larry Brown returns to coaching with hopes of bringing the
Bobcats back to the NBA Finals.



PG Raymond Felton
SG Jason Richardson
SF Gerald Wallace
PF Emeka Okafor
C Nazr Mohammed
----------
G Earl Boykins
F Adam Morrison
F Sean May
F Chuck Hayes



F Joe Alexander (Draft)
G Deron Washington (Draft)
F Chuck Hayes (Free Agent)
C Justin Williams (Free Agent)
F Chris Richard (Free Agent)



G Lindsey Hunter (Retired)
G Derek Anderson (Free Agent)
G Matt Carroll (Free Agent)
C Michael Olowakandi (Free Agent)
C Ryan Hollins (Free Agent)
F Othella Harrington (Free Agent)



PPG Jason Richardson 20.6
RPG Nazr Mohammed 10.5
APG Jason Richardson 6.6
SPG Gerald Wallace 1.93
BPG Gerald Wallace 2.04



The Charlotte Bobcats were the biggest surprise from last season after reaching the Finals on their franchise's first ever appearance in the playoffs. They are hoping to build on that success by bringing in champion coach, Larry Brown. When Brown won a championship with Detroit, he didn't really have a superstar on his team, instead he had players who did their roles and understood what the team needs to win the game. And he'll have similar players here in Charlotte, a team without a bonafide superstar but yet, finds a way to win.



COACH: Stan Van Gundy | RECORD: 41-41


Howard prepares to throw down a left-handed alley-oop slam
over The Big Cactus.



PG Jameer Nelson
SG Eric Gordon
SF Hedo Turkoglu
PF Rashard Lewis
C Dwight Howard
----------
G Keyon Dooling
G Keith Bogans
G J.J. Redick
F Tony Battie
F Brian Cook



G Eric Gordon (Draft)
G Courtney Lee (Draft)
F Maarty Leunen (Free Agent)
G Sasha Vujacic (Free Agent)
C Michael Doleac (Free Agent)



F Maurice Evans (Free Agent)
G Carlos Arroyo (Free Agent)
F James Augustine (Free Agent)
F Marcin Gortat (Free Agent)



PPG Rashard Lewis 23.6
RPG Dwight Howard 11.2
APG Rashard Lewis 8.2
SPG Hedo Turkoglu 1.45
BPG Dwight Howard 1.86



The Magic had a chance to draft Michael Beasley but instead, decided to fill a need by drafting the sweet shooting guard from Indiana University, Eric Gordon. They also signed the fiery Sasha Vujacic to further boost their bench power. The problem for Stan Van Gundy is to properly distribute playing time for his guards. Don't be surprised if Orlando signs or trade for a big man to back up Dwight Howard.



COACH: Ed Tapscott | RECORD: 40-42


Agent Zero jacks up another trey against the New Jersey
Nets.



PG Gilbert Arenas
SG DeShawn Stevenson
SF Caron Butler
PF Antawn Jamison
C Brendan Haywood
----------
F Andray Blatche
G Antonio Daniels
G Nick Young
F Ersan Ilyasova
C Etan Thomas



C Robin Lopez (Draft)
F James Gist (Draft)
F Ersan Ilyasova (Free Agent)
G Chris Quinn (Free Agent)



G Roger Mason (Free Agent)
F Stephane Lasme (Free Agent)
F Courtney Sims (Free Agent)
C Oleksiy Pecherov (Free Agent)



PPG Gilbert Arenas 25.3
RPG Brendan Haywood 10.1
APG Gilbert Arenas 8.6
SPG Caron Butler 1.84
BPG Brendan Haywood 1.75



The Wizards are hoping that their young players develop immediately and help their three stars, Gilbert Arenas, Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler, win more games. They added some nice role players in Turkish forward Ersan Ilyasova and Chris Quinn, who was the starting point guard for Miami last season. The team's success lies on whether their bench can sustain their starter's obvious fire power.



COACH: Erik Spoelstra | RECORD: 39-43


D-Wade needs to do a whole lot more to get the Heat back
to playoff contention.



PG Kyle Weaver
SG Dwyane Wade
SF Shawn Marion
PF Udonis Haslem
C Troy Murphy
----------
G Ricky Davis
F Dorell Wright
G Daequan Cook
G Marcus Banks
C Mark Blount



C Hamed Haddadi (Draft)
G Kyle Weaver (Draft)



C Alonzo Mourning (Retired)
G Chris Quinn (Free Agent)
F Bobby Jones (Free Agent)
G Mike Wilks (Free Agent)



PPG Dwyane Wade 26.0
RPG Alonzo Mourning 9.7
APG Dwyane Wade 7.9
SPG Dwyane Wade 1.85
BPG Alonzo Mourning 2.02



Dwyane Wade has a tough task ahead of him this season. He is surrounded by a young and inexperienced bunch of players. Shawn Marion and Troy Murphy needs to work on the boards and defend the paint to fill the hole that was left when Alonzo Mourning decided to leave the game. While Ricky Davis needs to embrace his role as a sixth man if he wants this team to even contend for a playoffs spot.



COACH: Mike Woodson | RECORD: 38-44


J-Smoove with an acrobatic lay-up against the Kings.



PG Mike Bibby
SG Joe Johnson
SF Josh Smith
PF Chris Wilcox
C Al Horford
----------
F Marvin Williams
F Ryan Gomes
C Zaza Pachulia
G Acie Law



F Marreese Speights (Draft)
G Mike Taylor (Draft)
F Ryan Gomes (Free Agent)



F Josh Childress (Free Agent)
G Salim Stoudamire (Free Agent)
G Mario West (Free Agent)
G Jeremy Richardson (Free Agent)



PPG Joe Johnson 23.6
RPG Al Horford 10.8
APG Mike Bibby 8.2
SPG Joe Johnson 1.70
BPG Josh Smith 2.30



Atlanta lost a key role player in Josh Childress who bolted to free agency and has yet to sign with an NBA team but they replaced hm with another good young player in Ryan Gomes. The team's core is still intact but needs to prove they can win games or the Hawks management may be forced to make some moves before the trade deadline. Hawks fans have been craving for a successful run but they could be facing another disappointing season.

[homicide1550]

solid

only move i'd make different is starting JT at PF, bringing Big Ben off the bench at C to conserve the ol' timer's energy; but man your team got small quick-style; a couple of long-term injuries to your bigs might make or break your season

Rose to the pistons is HOT! I'm first on that bandwagon - "DEEETROIT BASSSKETBAAALLL!!!"

I really need another big, I might do a trade to satisfy that need... And yeah, Detroit has a superb basketball team.. They freaking stole the first pick..

Damn, Detroit gonna win it all this year. Unless you stop them.

I just hope I don't face them in the first round of the playoffs...

Man, which Live are the pics from? Looks tight.

Live 08, if not for the great patchers here in NLSC things would've sucked big time.. hehe

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jason Thompson snatch the starting spot from Big Ben as the season winds down. I like how Indiana is starting Ike Diogu, but where's Troy Murphy?

Troy Murphy was traded to the Heat last season for Jason Williams who is now a free agent..

[homicide1550]

solid

only move i'd make different is starting JT at PF, bringing Big Ben off the bench at C to conserve the ol' timer's energy; but man your team got small quick-style; a couple of long-term injuries to your bigs might make or break your season

Rose to the pistons is HOT! I'm first on that bandwagon - "DEEETROIT BASSSKETBAAALLL!!!"

I really need another big, I might do a trade to satisfy that need... And yeah, Detroit has a superb basketball team.. They freaking stole the first pick..

Damn, Detroit gonna win it all this year. Unless you stop them.

I just hope I don't face them in the first round of the playoffs...

Man, which Live are the pics from? Looks tight.

Live 08, if not for the great patchers here in NLSC things would've sucked big time.. hehe

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jason Thompson snatch the starting spot from Big Ben as the season winds down. I like how Indiana is starting Ike Diogu, but where's Troy Murphy?

Troy Murphy was traded to the Heat last season for Jason Williams who is now a free agent..

[Clutch]

pauvre pauvre Wade... looks like MIA will be 'Missing In Action'... again. Ricky D is such a cancer