07 Blazers (9-9) Blazers Shoot Down Hawks / 5th Straight Win

[ThaSpecialist]

The Rose City Sports Page Report

Blazers "De-Throne" Kings


D-Miles and the Blazers struggled early on against the Kings,
but eventually got things under control by the third quarter.
Miles, who went scoreless in the first half, wrapped up the game
with a solid 14 pts and 7 assists. More importantly though
were the 11 Defensive Rebounds (12 total) and 4 blocked
shots that he registered throughout the contest.

94
69

Box Score: (Click here for Full Team/Player Statistics)

Game Summary:

The Blazers were back to looking like a struggling highschool team early on against the Kings, after a 2 of 8 shooting performance in the first 6 minutes of action (that also included 5 turnovers and 4 fouls committed) quickly gave Sacramento a 13-4 advantage. Finally with 5:51 to play in the quarter, McMillan of the Blazers would use Portland's first time out in an attempt to get something going in a game that his team figured to have the upper hand in from the get go. It would prove brilliant, as the starting line-up (with Webster in for Jack, and Jones at PG, and LaFrentz later replacing a foul-troubled Magloire) would re-take the floor and erupt .. going on a 10-0 tear despite a hard foul by Brad Miller sending LaFrentz to the sideline with an arm injury mid-way through. Portland would take the lead with 2:24 to play (14-13) and extend it 59 seconds later on a Fred Jones three .. with 1:15 remaining in the period. Sacramento wouldn't get back on the board until a Bibby lay-up put them at 15 pts scored as a team with 24.1 remaining. Portland would keep the lead to close out the quarter on a stellar 17-2 run. (POR 21-15)

Portland would stay up through the 2nd quarter as the Kings shooting woes from the 1st quarter (just 6 of 24 from the field) would cease to some extent. Led by Mike Bibby (11 pts in the 1st Q, 6 in the 2nd before hitting the bench with 2 mins to play due to his 3rd foul) the Kings would chip away and reduce the Blazers lead to as much as a few points, before a volley of missed shots by the home team gave Portland another chance to pull away. Fast-moving Fred Jones of the Blazers lead the way with a couple of buckets, but garbage man Jamaal Magloire had the most impact (6 reb, 2 off in the Q, 8 pts) as he'd account for a 3rd of the team's points in the quarter. At the half both Magloire (12 pts, 6 reb) and Jones (11 pts, 5/5 FG) would sit atop the Blazers with Bibby (17 pts, 3 reb) for Sacramento standing out as the lone threat heading into the 2nd half. (POR 44-35)

Steaming into the 3rd quarter, the Kings shooting woes from the beginning of the game would suddenly return, while the Blazers playing a more careful and cautious game .. committed a single foul in the quarter (nor did they turn it over once). Strong play out of Portland's Darius Miles (8 pts, 5 reb, and his 3rd blocked shot of the game) and forward Zach Randolph (4 pts, 4 reb) ensured the Blazers lead would grow. At the end of 36 minutes, Portland would sit up with plenty of room to maneuver, thanks to another sub-40% shooting performance by the Kings (just 7 of 21 shots made). (POR 66-50)

Similar to Portland's performance as a team, did the Kings Mike Bibby save his best quarter for the final 12 minutes, where he'd score 12 of Sacramento's 19. The Blazers in the mean time would shoot 11 of 21 from the field, connect on 6 of 8 free throws, and grab another 12 rebounds bringing their game total to an impressive 57 (45 defensive .. of a possible 57 shots missed by the Kings) for one of their best rebounding performances all year. They'd score 28 in the fourth to close out the game and defeat the Kings by 25 .. their largest margin of victory all year. (POR WINS 94-69)

Reality's of the Game:

Despite failing to score a single point in the 1st half, Portland forward Darius Miles would bounce back strong in the second half where he'd score all 14 of his points, including a pair of threes hit early in the third quarter after a struggle (0 for 10) of a 1st half with Defensive stud Ron Artest guarding him. The Portland playmaker also recorded 12 rebounds, 7 assists and a season high 4 blocks against the Kings in 35 minutes of action .. efforts that earned him the Gatorade Baller of the Game honors in the end.

He battled foul trouble throughout the whole game, but he still got on the floor for 34 minutes while putting up a game high 25 points on 8 of 20 shooting (4 of 5 from down town, 5 of 6 from the FT line). Sacramento guard Mike Bibby was the Kings player of the game.

Portland got a lot out of Center Jamaal Magloire, who put a hurting on Kings Center Brad Miller 16 pts and 9 rebounds later. Magloire shot a solid 8 of 12 from the field throughout the game.

The Kings studs in Shareef Abdur-Rahim (22.1 ppg entering the contest) and Ron Artest both had their troubles throughout this one. While Artest battled foul trouble and scored just 10 pts (4 reb as well) Abdur-Rahim did even worse .. with 5 pts scored on 1 of 9 shooting (3 of 4 from the FT line). However Abdur-Rahim did manage to grab 9 rebounds and block a trio of shots (3 of the team's 5) at some point during the contest.

Blazer speedster Fred Jones had a great game of fast breaks that led to 13 pts scored on a brilliant shooting performance (6 of 7, including a three) in 27 minutes.

Sacramento Center Brad Miller managed just 6 points and 8 rebounds for the Kings. He also blocked a couple of shots.

Solid performers for the Blazers were Zach Randolph (9 pts, 7 reb) LaMarcus Aldridge (8 pts, 8 reb) Ime Udoko (5 pts, 4 reb, blk) Jarret Jack (7 pts, 5 reb) and Martell Webster (7 pts, 6 reb).

Game Photos:


Portland guard Fred Jones had a solid evening with 13 points
scored on a near-perfect 6 of 7 shooting. Jones was the spark
that led the Blazers up and over the Kings in the first quarter to
where they never quite looked back.


Sacramento guard Mike Bibby (#10) battled foul trouble yet
still managed to put up a game high 25 points. His comrade
Shareef Abdur-Rahim (#3) who entered the game was one of
the NBA's stop 5 scorers, had a more frustrating night with just
a single field goal made (1 of 9) and a few free throws (3 of 4)
to give him a season low, 5 points.


Blazer center Jamaal Magloire led all Portland scorers with
16 points on an effective 8 of 12 shooting. The big Center also
registered 9 rebounds and a steal in the contest against a pretty
nasty front line in Kings Center Brad Miller and forwards Shareef
Abdur-Rahim and Ron Artest.

[TomCat]

good win. i like how you said "de-throne" the kings, that is funny.

keep up the good work

[ThaSpecialist]

The Rose City Sports Page Report

Roy Will Play / LaFrentz To Sit?


Although he's sat out most of the season with various injuries
Portland's Brandon Roy has scored 18.5 ppg in six showings,
only four of which he's actually started.

November 26th, 2006

Although he won't start due to Coach Nate McMillan deciding that it would be best to let the rookie ease back into the chemistry that the team has been building thus far with Fred Jones at guard, Brandon Roy is finally back in the Blazers line-up and ready to go.

Roy's return could not be any more perfectly timed, as he'll remain at home at the Rose Garden Arena with the rest of the Portland Trailblazers, who'll host the 10-3 hot-handed Phoenix Suns of the Western Conference.

Roy, who averaged 18+ ppg in his 6 games (4 starts) with the Trailblazers will replace center Joel Przybilla on the team's 12 man active roster.

Or will he?

Last night against the Kings in Sacramento forward Raef LaFrentz of the Blazers injured a thumb mid-way through the contest. And though he played out the remainder of the game to some degree, LaFrentz later spent the evening nursing the injury and icing it per the team's Medical Staff's suggestion.

Having a big, strong line-up will be one of numerous keys to stopping the Phoenix big men in Shawn Marion and Amare Stoudemire, both of whom are devastating down low in the paint on both ends of the floor.

It'll be a game time decision if it happens, but there is a chance that LaFrentz will be deactivated in order for the Blazers to keep Przybilla on the 12 man roster as a pillar of Defense under the basket against the high-flying Suns.

LaFrentz, who has also been whispered as available for trade (although he comes with a hefty contract), has been solid this year off the bench for the Blazers in averaging 7.9 ppg and 3.6 rpg in just 17.8 mpg.

Przybilla has averaged 3.9 ppg and 1.4 rpg in just 8 mpg.

Click For Up To Date Progression/Depth Chart

[ThaSpecialist]

BLAZER'S GAME 15

Pre-Game Report

AT

When: November 26th @ 7pm
Where: The Rose Garden Arena, in Portland, OR
Blazers Record: 5-9
Suns Record: 10-3

About The Suns -

Team Leaders:

Scoring: C Amare Stoudemire (23.3)
Rebounding: C Amare Stoudemire (11.8)
Assists: PG Steve Nash (7.3)
Steals: C Amare Stoudemire (1.85)
Blocks: PF Shawn Marion (2.64)

The Suns are an excellent team that has ran and destroyed squads all year thus far. Led by two-time MVP PG Steve Nash (17 ppg, 7.3 apg) the Suns style of play is very high-paced and dependent on shooting and passing. High-flyers Center Amare Stoudemire (23.3 ppg, 11.8 rpg, 2.08 bpg) and Shawn Marion (17.1 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 2.62 bpg) are bound to get their points and rebounds somehow regardless of any way a team defends them. Slashers Boris Diaw (15 ppg off the bench, 7 rpg) and young Marcus Banks are at their best when in the lane .. Diaw when able to pass, though there is a chance that he will not dress for this game due to injury. From the outside, aside from the obvious range of Steve Nash the Suns have some serious threats in Barbosa (48% 3pt) veteran bomber Eric Piatkowski and starting shooters Raja Bell (37% 3pt) and young James Jones (48% 3pt). Reserve big man Kurt Thomas (4.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg) is expected to spell Stoudemire every once in a while, as Diaw will likely sub in for Marion down the stretch. In the event that the Blazers luck out and Diaw does not dress, the Suns will then play 6'10" Sean Marks.

Portland's Priorities -

Team Leaders:

Scoring: SF Darius Miles (13.8)
Rebounding: C Jamaal Magloire (8.0)
Assists: SF Darius Miles (5.6)
Steals: SG Martell Webster (0.64)
Blocks: SF Darius Miles (0.43)

Back in the line-up for the Blazers is rookie guard Brandon Roy, but suffering from a recent finger injury (yet still able to play) in the mean time is reserve forward Raef LaFrentz, who may have to sacrifice his roster spot for the much bigger and stronger Joel Przbyilla, as an inside presence will definately be needed in this game against the Suns high-flyers in Stoudemire and Marion. Portland will need to focus on slowing the game down and playing it at a tempo that they can survive at, which is something that they failed miserably at doing against the likes of the Nets twice. The Blazers best bet in this one may be to really focus on getting the ball underneath and getting fouls out of the Suns inside presence, where they are the weakest when coming off the bench. Boxing out and reducing put-backs against a team such as the Suns (bound to score high) is a plus as well. Big men Zach Randolph (13 ppg, 6.9 rpg) Jamaal Magloire (11.1 ppg, 8 rpg) and LaMarcus Aldridge (12.6 ppg, 7.6 rpg) will have a huge role in his contest on both sides of the ball, while guards Roy (38% FG) Webster (30% FG) Jones (51%) Jack (37%) and Dickau (31%) have got to knock down their jumpers consistently.

Look For:

The Blazers to once again use Darius Miles at the point in hopes of reducing looks by sharp shooters such as Nash and Barbosa.

[ThaSpecialist]

Scoop,

Sacramento played that game like they had no choice but to lose .. they missed so many shots it was ridiculous.

Now it's back to Portland with Roy in the line-up, and a date with the Suns. I'm expecting an ass whooping but stranger shit has happened at the Rose Garden. Sucks that this is our 2nd straight game in 2 days (whole team is tired as hell) and we're about to play the Suns that just run, run, run, run.

[ThaSpecialist]

The Rose City Sports Page Report

Portland Comeback Upsets Suns


Reserve forward Travis Outlaw may of had his finest game yet
this season. Outlaw soared down the lane most of the night against
the Suns en route to scoring a team high 16 points and grabbing
8 rebounds as well. The 6'9" highschool-to-pro player was all
over the glass with 4 offensive rebounds namely.

96
107

Box Score: (Click here for Full Team/Player Statistics)

Game Summary:

In what was predictably sure to be a blow out at the Rose Garden Arena, the hosting Portland Trailblazers (5-9) actually hung with the visiting Phoenix Suns (10-3) despite the Blazers having played a game the night before, and looking visibly gas'd from the get go of this one. Committing fouls in the lane on forwards Shawn Marion and James Jones of the Suns wouldn't help any, as the two would combine for 6 of 7 FTs in the quarter. Predictably the combination of Marion and Stoudemire would prove difficult for the Blazers to slow, as the two would score 19 of the team's 29 during the first 12 minutes of action (team shooting 50% from the field). Portland in the mean time, somehow shooting a shot over 50% (12 of 23) would score 25 to nearly match the Suns first quarter of galloping, despite turning the rock over 4 times. (PHO 29-25)

Surprisingly the Blazers of the second quarter would seem more energized than the gas'd and fatigued mess of players in the first. Tough Defense, getting back in time to play it and clearing the glass of the Suns missed shots would quickly lead to a tie game (31-31) with 8:42 to play in the contest, until finally a Travis Outlaw dunk at the 8:11 mark gave the Blazers a 2 pt lead. But in a matter of minutes the Suns would storm back for the lead, running hard and pushing the ball up the floor until Portland Coach Nate McMillan wisely called a time out in an attempt to halt things from hurriedly getting out of control. Down 41-37 with 5:46 to play a fresher Blazers line-up would take the floor following McMillan's speech, and work hard to tie the game up twice (45, 50) before the Suns wrapped up the half running hard and efficient with a 5-0 run. Portland with 10 turnovers at the half and just 1 of 9 three pointers made, would consider themselves lucky to be down 5. The Suns in the mean time has gotten 30 pts and 17 rebounds out of the combination of Stoudamire and Marion. For Portland, forward Travis Outlaw stood out the most (14 pts, 5 reb .. 4 of them offensive) after 24 minutes. (PHO 55-50)

At the start of the third quarter the Blazers would look rough in missing 5 consecutive shots and scoring from the free throw line (2 of 4 at that) before a Randolph lay-up with 9:19 to go finally gave them their first FG. Unfortunately the points would spark a Phoenix run that would leave the Blazers watching their opportunities to pull this one out fade away. Converting off steals, blocked shots and three point plays, the Suns would run off to create a 69-57 gap .. only for Portland to slice the lead down below 10 pts, and the Suns to explode again up to a 74-61 lead. But Portland would stay focused and hopeful, and down the stretch it'd pay off as the Suns would tire noticeably. The Blazers turn to convert and make plays would come, and they'd deliver .. slashing Phoenix's lead play after play until a Przybilla lay-in with 2 seconds remaining in the quarter would bring the home team all the way back to within 3 pts of taking the lead. (PHO 82-79)

More hard work for the Blazers would pay off heading through the first minutes of the fourth quarter, where a Randolph 8 footer with 9:01 to play would tie up the game at 85-85. And less than a minute later guard Martell Webster would knock down a three to give the Blazers their second lead of the entire contest. Portland continued to build on it. Rebounding, hustling back on Defense and ball movement would lead to more points, while the Suns continued to struggle. Led by Fred Jones (6 fast break pts in the Q) the Blazers would pull ahead by as much as 10 pts (101-91) with under 5 minutes in the game .. the Suns now looking to come back. But it seemed it was the visiting team's turn to struggle, as the Phoenix shooters would struggle to knock down shots that were all liquid before. With 2 minutes to play in the contest the Blazers would still maintain a 8 pt lead (103-95). And the Suns over the course of the remainder of the game would manage to score just a point .. bringing their fourth quarter point total to just 14, after having scored 82 points through the previous 36 minutes of play. Portland with the comeback victory to hand the Suns their 4th loss of the month. (POR WINS 107-96)

Reality's of the Game:

Although there were plenty of statistical gurus on the losing team, Blazer forward Travis Outlaw instead would take home the Gatorade Baller of the Game honors with a 16 point, 8 rebound effort on 8 of 14 shooting. 4 of the 6'9" forward's rebounds would come on the Offensive glass. Outlaw also registered a steal on the game.

Phoenix studs Amare Stoudemire (24 pts, 9 reb) and Shawn Marion (26 pts, 10 reb) predictably got their points and boards for the Suns. But what few may of expected them to do was combine for 4 steals (of the team's 9) and 6 of the team's 7 blocks in the contest. They also put up a combined 20 of 29 FGs made, and another 10 of 12 connected on from the FT line.

Blazer forward Darius Miles had another solid game across the stat line, with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 dimes dished out. And though he turned the ball over 5 times, he also registered a steal and connected on 4 of 6 free throws.

The reigning 2-time MVP Suns guard Steve Nash had a relatively solid game, although he came away with a loss. He pretty much equaled his season averages with 19 pts and 8 assists, while shooting 50% (8 of 16) from the field.

The Blazer big men were at it again. Centers Joel Przybilla (10 pts, 6 reb) Jamaal Magloire (7 pts, 7 reb) and rookie forward LaMarcus Aldridge (10 pts, 8 reb, blk) all played solid in the paint for Portland. The trio only combined for 6 fouls on the game.

Phoenix shooters in Raja Bell (0 for 7) Eric Piatkowski (1 of 2) James Jones (6 of 16) and Lee Barbosa (2 of 5) all combined for just 18 points, as the foursome clearly struggled around the perimeter against the Blazers lanky defensemen.

Portland guards Fred Jones (10 pts) and Brandon Roy (16 pts) played great for the Blazers down the stretch, especially in the 2nd half when Portland went down by as much as 13 before coming back to win by 11. In the 2nd half the two scored 19 of their combined 26 on the game, with Roy going for 9 of his 16 in the 3rd period and Jones 6 of his 10 pts in the final period.

Game Photos:


Blazer guard Fred Jones was flying when he did wind up with
the ball. Jones, who has struggled to find playing time amidst
Coach Nate McMillan's 12 man rotation, has been adding up
points here and there as often as possible .. with 10 pts including
6 in the final quarter in the 6'2" guard's latest display of ability.


Suns guard Steve Nash, the NBA's 2-time reigning MVP, had
a relatively quiet night with just 19 points and 8 assists. Nash
seemed content for most of the game to just sit back and watch
his team evolve around him, while shooting sparingly himself.


Center Jamaal Magloire of the Blazers (pictured) got hung
up a few times in the paint, where the Suns big men were
dominant at times. Although the Blazers were blocked 7
times by the Suns, they still managed to out rebound them
53 to 40.

[TomCat]

wow, great win!!! good recap for that game, very interesting. good to see outlaw getting some solid minutes and some solid stats. I see that Miles is still playing very consistently.

looking forward to the next game

[ThaSpecialist]

BLAZER'S GAME 16

Pre-Game Report

AT

When: November 28th @ 8pm
Where: The Rose Garden Arena, in Portland, OR
Blazers Record: 6-9
Pacers Record: 4-10

Inside The Pacers -

Team Leaders:

Scoring: Dunleavy/O'Neal (22.7)
Rebounding: PF Jermaine O'Neal (12.1)
Assists: PG Jamal Tinsley (5.9)
Steals: Tinsley/Daniels (1.86)
Blocks: PF Jermaine O'Neal (2.64)

The Pacers are an under-rated team that's on the rise. Led by scorers in Jermaine O'Neal (22.7 ppg, 12.1 rpg, 2.64 bpg) and Mike Dunleavy Jr (22.7 ppg, 6.9 rpg) Indiana has the ability to put up points, unlike in the past. Guards Darrell Armstrong (4.4 ppg - though he won't dress due to injury) Marquis Daniels (6.9 ppg) and Shawne Williams (5.6 ppg) really know how o get out and push the ball. Starting point guard Jamal Tinsley (14.5 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 5.9 apg, but slowed by a recent return from injury) can run both the break and a half-court Offense. And big men Danny Granger (8.2 ppg, 6.2 rpg) David Harrison (4.2 ppg, 6.4 rpg) and Jeff Foster (3.1 rpg) are all entirely capable of scoring inside along O'Neal, the team's stud. This squad lacks range, but their mid-range jump shooters are aplenty.

Portland's Priorities -

Team Leaders:

Scoring: SF Darius Miles (13.8)
Rebounding: C Jamaal Magloire (7.9)
Assists: SF Darius Miles (5.5)
Steals: SG Martell Webster (0.67)
Blocks: Miles/Aldridge (0.40)

This is a very win-able game for the Blazers, especially with the Pacers missing Darrell Armstrong and Jamal Tinsley reportedly being slowed by an injury. The Pacers are a half-court oriented team that will run at times, but likely not while guard Jamal Tinsley is still nursing a knee sprain from a week ago. So it'll be up to the Portland big men to take control of this one on both ends of the floor, where the Pacers (O'Neal, Foster, Granger, Harrison, Murphy) are expected to do the bulk of their damage as well. Despite the advantage that more size (out of Przybilla) on the floor would create, Coach McMillan is optioning to go with forward Raef LaFrentz (coming off a finger sprain) whose range could pull some of that Indiana size out from the paint enough for the Blazers slashers (Roy, Miles, Webster, Jones, Udoko) to get inside. Otherwise, this contest looks like a clash of the titans to come, and could be decided on the boards where both teams are expected to battle fiercely all game long.

Look For:

Coach McMillan to use forward Travis Outlaw at the #4 position in order to draw O'Neal out of the paint to open things up as well.

[ThaSpecialist]

wow, great win!!! good recap for that game, very interesting. good to see outlaw getting some solid minutes and some solid stats. I see that Miles is still playing very consistently.

looking forward to the next game

Gotta love that Rose Garden Arena effect!!! Anything can happen!!

I played Outlaw against Marion (both 6'9", quick/athletic) and it seemed to work out real well but he definately helped out the most on the break! Same as Fred Jones! Both of these guys I was kind of suspicious of in the beginning of the year but now I see they are pretty important!

Next up .. hosting the Pacers. Then there'll be a November recap and a look around the NBA. Stay tuned!

[TomCat]

yeah outlaw is a great man to bring in off the bench, especially when the team is struggling. he is a terrific dunker, and a decent jump shooter. Looking forward to seeing fred jones play well against his old club.

Can't wait for the November recap!! Try to make it very informative, so we know a lot that is going on around the league. include league leaders, standings, MVP candidates, transactions, the playoff picture etc. Maybe even put a little feature on the best players in the league, make up some news stories about LeBron or something, look at his team chemistry and say how he is functioning with his team.

just thought i'd give u a couple of ideas

looking forward to it all.

[ThaSpecialist]

The Rose City Sports Page Report

Portland Wins Third Straight


Portland forward Darius Miles (soaring in for a reverse slam) was at
his best once again for the Blazers, when they hosted the Indiana
Pacers this past November 28th. Miles led all Portland scorers with
19 points, while just missing out on a triple double with 9 rebounds
and 10 assists as well. Miles has led the Blazers in points scored,
rebounds and assists this season thus far.

82
102

Box Score: (Click here for Full Team/Player Statistics)

Game Summary:

Portland got off to an excellent start against the Pacers, in scoring 18 points to Indiana's 7 in the first 6 minutes of the quarter. Led by Blazers Fred Jones (6 pts) Jarrett Jack (7 pts) Randolph (6 pts) Magloire (6 pts) and Darius Miles (5 pts) Portland would finish up the quarter strong, and dump in another 15 points including a Randolph lay-in with 0.2 left .. while the Pacers struggled throughout the quarter to find the basket. Indiana would shoot just 33% from the field. Portland on the other hand an uncanny 75% (15 of 20) to nearly build a 20 point lead after one quarter. (POR 33-14)

But the second quarter proved to be a differnet ball game as the Blazers, shooting a bizarre 2 of 6 through the first few minutes, would quickly find themselves out scored 10-4 by the sharper-shooting Pacers (37-24) with a pair of Dunleavy threes standing out the most. Keeping the Portland lead at around 13 for the central minutes of the quarter, the Pacers would actually look as if they had it in them to make a game out of this .. before a sudden Blazer burst led by Darius Miles and Brandon Roy saw the home team open the scoring rift again. And with 4:09 to play in the half, a Martell Webster three would officially put Portland up 50-28. Both teams would finish out the quarter strong, and at the half the Blazers shooting 63% from the field with just 5 team fouls would easily appear to have the upper hand, while the struggling Pacers at 39% on the game .. hope to build off their 27 point effort in the second quarter. Pacers forward Jermaine O'Neal (9 pts, 9 reb) and Portland forward Darius Miles (13 pts, 5 reb, 7 assist) were the names standing out the most at the half. (POR 59-41)

Playing hard through the third quarter and showing that the first may just of been a fluke, the Pacers led by forwards Mike Dunleavy Jr (9 pts) and Shawne Williams (8 pts) would put on a show with 25 points scored on a solid 11 of 23 shooting. Portland on the other hand would get surprisingly strong play out of guards Jarrett Jack (6 pts) and Fred Jones (4 pts) as they'd lead a team that scored a modest 20 points in the quarter. Needless to say the Pacers, similar to the case of the second quarter, would get the best of the Blazers in the tird .. while successfully cutting the lead even further as a Dunleavy three with around 45 ticks to play would cut the score to 77-66, still in Portland's favor. Unfortunately for the Pacers, Blazer forward Darius Miles would knock down a foul line jump shot to propel Portland back to a 13 point lead to end the quarter. (POR 79-66)

Bringing some last second momentum with them into the start of the final quarter, the Blazers would come out firing .. and hurriedly go about burying the Pacers with an 8-0 run that would send Indiana back into a 20 point hole (87-66) with 9:25 still to play in the game. Unfortunately the Pacers would never quite dig themselves out of the hole, as Portland would play hard and keep a 15-20 point lead throughout the remainder of this one. They'd save their best perimeter Defense for the final 12 minutes, where Indiana would shoot a horrid 5 of 22 from the field, including 4 of 10 from the free throw line .. numbers that would seal their fate and give the Blazers their third consecutive win in a row. (POR WINS 102-82)

Reality's of the Game:

Portland forward Darius Miles fell a rebound short of what could of been his first triple double all season. Against the Pacers Miles grabbed 9 rebounds, dished 10 assists and scored 19 points on 8 of 17 shooting from the field. His efforts won him the Gatorade Baller of the Game honors. Miles also registered a blocked shot and connected on 3 of 6 free throws as well.

Pacer All NBA forward Jermaine O'Neal had a relatively quiet game, as he'd score a mere 15 points on 7 of 13 shooting. O'Neal also grabbed a game high 14 rebounds, and logged a pair of steals. The Pacer's stud did turn the rock over 5 times though.

Once again Portland got excellent play out of guards Jarrett Jack (15 pts, 3 assists) and Fred Jones (13 pts, 3 reb, 3 assists, 2 steals). Rookie guard Brandon Roy however struggled to make baskets (just 4 of 17 from the field) en route to registering a season low .. 9 points. The former Washington stud did manage to grab 6 rebounds and dish 4 assists though.

The game's highest scoring honors once again went to a Portland opponent, as the Pacers' Mike Dunleavy Jr (24 pts, 7 reb, 4 assists) locked up the title in this one. Close behind Dunleavy was guard Shawne Williams, who scored 19 points on 7 of 17 shooting, with a trio of steals also to his credit.

Portland forward Zach Randolph (15 pts, 9 reb, blk) had one of his better games, while Centers Jamaal Magloire (8 pts, 7 reb) and LaMarcus Aldridge (10 pts, 6 reb) were solid in the paint on both ends of the floor.


Game Photos:


Portland forward Zach Randolph (#50) had a solid game with 15 pts
and 9 rebounds. Pacers forward Jermaine O'Neal (#7) in the mean
time had a pretty average day for himself with just 15 pts scored and
a game high 14 rebounds. Throughout most of the game O'Neal
found himself out-numbered in the paint on nearly every shot that
went up.


Young Pacers point guard Keith McLeod (#25) found himself in
the Indiana line-up for over 20 minutes, due to starter Jamaal
Tinsley spending much of the game in foul trouble. But despite
dishing 5 assists and stealing a few balls, the former Iowa St stud
would only give the Pacers 3 pts on the night.


Only recently has starting point guard Jarrett Jack (#1) elevated
his play. Jack has been scoring more and more in recent games,
including a season high 15 against the Pacers this past Tuesday
night.

[ThaSpecialist]

yeah outlaw is a great man to bring in off the bench, especially when the team is struggling. he is a terrific dunker, and a decent jump shooter. Looking forward to seeing fred jones play well against his old club.

Can't wait for the November recap!! Try to make it very informative, so we know a lot that is going on around the league. include league leaders, standings, MVP candidates, transactions, the playoff picture etc. Maybe even put a little feature on the best players in the league, make up some news stories about LeBron or something, look at his team chemistry and say how he is functioning with his team.

just thought i'd give u a couple of ideas

looking forward to it all.

I'm becoming a Jones/Outlaw fan more and more with each game.

As for the recap (coming soon, but not tonight) I intended to put up leaderboards, standings, MVPs, so on and so forth. It'll be informative. Not sure about stories though.

[TomCat]

sounds like the recap will be good. am looking forward to it.

[Rta]

man good wins... good luck in the continuation...

[ThaSpecialist]

Around The NBA: November Edition

* All Information to Follow as of November 30th, 2006
* Below is a recap in short form
* A full recap of league leaders and standings is available at the bottom
* If you're having problems reading due to color, use the link to the text recap

NBA League Leaders

POINTS

Yao Ming: 24.4 PPG

REBOUNDS

Kevin Garnett: 13.9 RPG

BLOCKS

Gerald Wallace: 3.25 BPG

STEALS

Paul Pierce: 2.67 SPG

ASSISTS

Allen Iverson: 8.7 APG

MINUTES

Pau Gasol: 43.6 MPG

MVP Canidates

Yao Ming: 24.4 PPG | 10.5 RPG | 4.1 APG | 2.47 BPG | 1.20 SPG
Jermaine O'Neal: 22.3 PPG | 12.4 PPG | 2.4 APG | 2.44 BPG | 0.94 SPG
Tim Duncan: 23.9 PPG | 10.8 RPG | 2.6 APG | 1.44 BPG | 1.31 SPG
Amare Stoudemire: 23.9 PPG | 11.5 RPG | 2.4 APG | 2.07 BPG | 1.73 SPG
Kobe Bryant: 24.2 PPG | 5.5 RPG | 4.9 APG | 0.40 BPG | 2.47 SPG

Players of November

EAST | Jermaine O'Neal: 22.3 PPG | 12.4 PPG | 2.4 APG | 2.44 BPG | 0.94 SPG
WEST | Yao Ming: 24.4 PPG | 10.5 RPG | 4.1 APG | 2.47 BPG | 1.20 SPG

Rookies of November

EAST | Adam Morrison: 17.9 PPG | 4.3 RPG | 3.5 APG | 0.27 BPG | 1.20 SPG
WEST | Rudy Gay: 14.7 PPG | 7.6 RPG | 2.3 APG | 0.93 BPG | 1.27 SPG

NBA STANDINGS: Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

10 - 4
7 - 7 (3.0)
7 - 9 (4.0)
5 - 9 (5.0)
5 - 12 (6.5)

Central

12 - 3
11 - 4 (1.0)
7 - 7 (4.5)
6 - 8 (5.5)
4 - 12 (8.5)

Southeast

11 - 5
9 - 6 (1.5)
8 - 6 (2.0)
4 - 9 (5.5)
4 - 11 (6.5)

NBA STANDINGS: Western Conference

Pacific

11 - 4
11 - 5 (0.5)
7 - 8 (4.0)
6 - 7 (4.0)
5 - 9 (5.5)

Northwest

11 - 2
7 - 6 (4.0)
7 - 9 (5.5)
7 - 9 (5.5)
4 - 13 (9.0)

Southwest

14 - 2
9 - 6 (4.5)
7 - 8 (6.5)
5 - 10 (8.5)
2 - 13 (11.5)

For a Full Recap of League Leaders, MVPs and Standings, Click Here

[ThaSpecialist]

Around The NBA: November Edition

* All Information to Follow as of November 30th, 2006
* For a full team statistical chart click the link at the bottom of the post

Portland Trailblazers

Blazer's Top Scorers

SF Darius Miles: 14.1 PPG
PF Zach Randolph: 12.8 PPG
C LaMarcus Aldridge: 12.3 PPG
C Jamaal Magloire: 10.6 PPG
PF Raef LaFrentz: 7.5 PPG
(SG Brandon Roy scored 17.0 PPG, but only in 8 of a possible 16 games)

Coach's Analysis: I like that our big guys are getting a lot of points, but it's alarming that none of our guards are putting up points. Roy has been one to do so, but his inability to stay healthy has really led to our lack of scoring by our back court. We're hoping to see more scoring out of the likes of Jack (6.9 PPG) Jones (6.9 PPG) and Webster (7.1 PPG) down the line.

Blazer's Top Rebounders

SF Darius Miles: 8.0 RPG
C Jamaal Magloire: 7.9 RPG
C LaMarcus Aldridge: 7.5 RPG
PF Zach Randolph: 6.8 RPG
PF Raef LaFrentz: 3.7 RPG
(SG Brandon Roy rebounded 3.9 RPG, but only in 8 of a possible 16 games)

Coach's Analysis: We're one of the top rebounding teams in the NBA due to having a solid cast of rebounders both from the bench and at the small forward position. Again, we'd like to see a little more production here out of our guards, but we know that Roy being hurt and our 5-6 guard rotation in his absence has sort of skewed the statisics here. It cannot be denied that we're one of the top rebounding teams in the NBA eitherway. Still room for improvement though out of the back court.

Blazer's Top Passers

SF Darius Miles: 5.8 APG
SG Fred Jones: 3.3 APG
PG Jarrett Jack: 2.6 APG
SG Martell Webster: 2.5 APG
PG Dan Dickau: 2.3 APG
(SG Brandon Roy dished 4.3 APG, but only in 8 of a possible 16 games)

Coach's Analysis: We've really struggled to find someone who can handle the ball all game long, and get it to where it needs to go. Miles has done a decent job, but he's also turned it over a lot as well .. signifying that he's likely no point guard. We've seen flashes of good passing out of Roy, otherwise the toss up between Jones, Dickau and Jack is one ugly thing to witness game in and game out. Somebody needs to surface as this team's #1 before roster adjustments are made, and players have new homes as a result. It seems that right now we're playing with a group of shooting guards at best .. many of whom have been painfully streaky all year.

Blazer's Top Shooters

SF Travis Outlaw: .644%
PF Zach Randolph: .619%
C LaMarcus Aldridge: .580%
C Jamaal Magloire: .577%
SG Fred Jones: .529%
(C Joel Przybilla has shot .818% from the field, but only in 8 of a possible 16 games)

Coach's Analysis: To say that we've struggled to put points in the basket out side of the paint in Portland .. would be an understatement. Only 8 of 13 players on this team are shooting above 40% from the field. In fact as beautiful as the big men's shooting percentages are (only LaFrentz is blow 50%, at .434%) the guards are absolutely horrific. Even Roy (.351%) must improve. Webster (.321%) Dickau (.313%) and Udoko (.313%) have got to start knocking down shots in the minutes that they are given. As solid as the team's inside play is, it's these guys failing to hit jumpers down the line that will result in the death of this team by the end.

Blazer's Best From Three

PG Jarrett Jack: .333%
SG Fred Jones: .333%
PG Dan Dickau: .314%
SG Ime Udoko: .300%
SG Martell Webster: .286%
(SF Travis Outlaw shot .667% from beyond the arc, but only on 4 of 6)

Coach's Analysis: Once again, we're looking at some of these figures and shaking our heads. These guys have got to shoot the ball more consistently. Brandon Roy (.174%) and Raef LaFrentz (.222%) have really struggled from beyond the arc. We really need these guys to start opening it up. Their lack of range and consistency has already resulted in a few losses for this team, and they'll account for plenty of more if someone doesn't become a threat from down town sooner or later.

Portland November Awards

November MVP: SF Darius Miles: 14.1 PPG | 8.0 RPG | 5.8 APG | 49% FG

Coach's Analysis: He's been our leader if we'd needed one. He really stepped up his Defensive play toward the end of the month. He contributes in all ways, and he's not the least bit selfish with some type of agenda of his own. We wish we had five of him out there.

November Defender: SF Darius Miles: 7.0 DRPG | 7 Blocks Total | 5 Steals

Coach's Analysis: He leads the team in blocks per game, and ranks 3rd in steals. His 7 defensive boards per game is tops on the squad. Miles is our premiere defender.

November Rookie: C LaMarcus Aldridge: 12.3 PPG | 7.5 RPG | 58% FG

Coach's Analysis: LaMarcus would have some competition here if Roy could stay healthy, but unfortunately the shooting guard can't. Aldridge in the mean time is quickly rising and showing us that he can be a starter in this league. His numbers are nearly identicle to Magloire, who has been in the pro's for 5+ years. Aldridge's inside game is solid, and his rebounding is getting better with each game. Occasionally he's in foul trouble, and his Defense (shot-blocking) could use heaps of work, but we're confident that he'll get there down the stretch.

November 6th Man: SF Travis Outlaw: 4.3 PPG | 2.9 RPG | 64% FG | 4/6 3pt

Coach's Analysis: It's been hard to select a 6th man, when most of our 6th men canidates (Webster, Jones) have been in and out of the starting line-up. But quietly coming off the bench and doing his thing (soaring for dunks, grabbing rebounds and playing stellar Defense) is Travis Outlaw, who has locked up the Blazer's November 6th Man Award with ease. His numbers aren't staggering, but his efficiency is the key to his performances. Outlaw is a solid defender and a good scorer when given the opportunities. His play was great toward the end of the month. He'll likely get more minutes in December.

For full Portland Trailblazer Player Statistics Click Here

[ThaSpecialist]

Team by Team Analysis of the Month of November is coming up next.

Teams will be listed in the order of Power Rankings. Current playoff seedings, top shooters and transactions will be included as well.

Stay tuned.

[TomCat]

like the recaps

(SG Brandon Roy dished 4.3 RPG, but only in 8 of a possible 16 games)

should be "APG"

[ThaSpecialist]

Around The NBA: November Edition

* All Information to Follow as of November 30th, 2006

Power Rankings:

Rank (LW) Team

1) (-) Spurs (14-2)
* Best Record in NBA
* #1 in Western Conference
* #1 in Southwest Division
* vs #8 Lakers in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Tim Duncan (23.9 PPG, 10.8 RPG)
The Sniper: Tony Parker (59% FG, 57% 3pt on 16/28)
The Grunt: Robert Horry (14.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG)

Analysis: They're of the hottest teams in the NBA right now, having won 9 of their last 10 games. Tony Parker (14.6 PPG, 4.8 APG) is playing great, and forward Tim Duncan like an MVP (23.9 PPG, 10.8 RPG). Injuries have been kind to this team thus far this year, as nobody has gone down yet. Players such as Manu Ginobili (14.8 PPG, 4.9 APG) and Robert Horry (14.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG) have quietly played their roles all year. The Spurs are the top team in the NBA right now, and unless something major happens (injuries, etc) this shouldn't change anytime soon.

2) (-) Pistons (12-3)
* 3rd Best Record in NBA
* #1 in Eastern Conference
* #1 in Central Division
* vs #8 Sixers in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Rasheed Wallace (19.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG)
The Sniper: Chauncey Billups (42% 3pt on 40/96)
The Grunt: Dale Davis (8.4 PPG, 7.5 RPG)

Analysis: Another team that injuries have been kind to. Detroit owns the top record in the East, and after starting out 4-1 .. they've gone on to win their last 8 of 10. Thus far it appears that Rasheed Wallace has risen to the title of the team's leader, with team highs in both points scored and rebounds grabbed per contest. But playing their roles are forward Tayshaun Prince (15.3 PPG, 8.4 RPG) Chauncey Billups (17.7 PPG) and Rip Hamilton (12.1 PPG). Veteran Dale Davis has adopted the role as the grunt (8.4 PPG, 7.5 RPG) in the wake of the departed Ben Wallace. Realistically this team is just clicking on all cyllindars right now. They'll be hard to slow down in the Weeks to come if they can stay healthy.

3) (-) Suns (11-4)
* Tied for 4th Best Record in NBA
* #3 in Western Conference
* #1 in Pacific Division
* vs #6 Denver in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Amare Stoudemire (23.9 PPG, 11.5 RPG)
The Sniper: Leandro Barbosa (48% 3pt on 14/29)
The Grunt: Shawn Marion (17.5 PPG, 10.2 RPG)

Analysis: The Suns are the highest scoring team in the NBA at the moment, despite losing an important part of their squad (Boris Diaw to injury) three Weeks ago at the start of the season. Of course this is one of the NBA's deepest teams, with guys such as Lee Barbosa (7.1 PPG) James Jones (9.7 PPG) Jalen Rose (4.3 PPG) and Kurt Thomas (4.1 PPG) coming off the bench. Conveniently enough studs Amare Stoudemire (23.9 PPG, 11.5 RPG) and Shawn Marion (17.5 PPG, 10.2 RPG) are having great years side by side .. a tandem that teams have thoroughly struggled to stop. 2-time MVP Steve Nash's numbers have sank a bit (17.7 PPG, 7.5 APG) but he's still effective as ever on the break, where this team excells both with and without Diaw.

4) (-) T-Wolves (11-2)
* 2nd Best Record in NBA
* 2nd in Western Conference
* 1st in Northwest Division
* vs #7 Houston in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Kevin Garnett (20.2 PPG, 13.8 RPG)
The Sniper: Marko Jaric (47% FG, 43% 3pt on 12/28)
The Grunt: Mark Blount (17.1 PPG, 9.1 RPG)

Analysis: Kevin Garnett is playing like a man possessed, and totally poised to lead this team deep into the post season. Even veteran center Mark Blount (17.1 PPG, 9.1 RPG) has surfaced as a threatening scorer and rebounder that the NBA may not of seen since the days of Tim Duncan along side David Robinson. Shooters Foye (13.5 PPG) Ricky Davis (13.4 PPG) and Mike James (12.8 PPG) have been solid around the T-Wolves big men. The way Marko Jaric is playing (8.5 PPG) the guy could wind up a canidate for 6th man of the year before long.

5) (-) Warriors (11-5)
* #7 in NBA
* #4 in Western Conference
* #2 in Pacific Division
* vs #5 Dallas in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Baron Davis (18.8 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.8 APG)
The Sniper: Stephen Jackson (44% 3pt on 33/75)
The Grunt: Andris Biendrins (12.4 PPG, 11.2 RPG)

Analysis: They could almost be considered the surprise squad of the year, but considering all the talent on the team it's hard to really be surprised. Finally the Warriors are back on the map, no thanks to guards Stephen Jackson (17.9 PPG, 7.1 RPG) Jason Richardson (14.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG) and Baron Davis (18.8 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.8 APG) who is having an MVP-caliber season .. it's amazing that he hasn't edged into the top 5 slots for votes yet. This is a fast moving team that likes to fly, with plenty of aggression on the boards on both ends of the floor and plenty of speed and flight ability to get up and down the floor for some serious points. The likes of guards Monta Ellis and Michael Pietrus is thrilling off the bench, while center Adonel Foyle is a shot-blocking net that teams struggle to get around. Golden State just may have the right blend of Offense and Defense this year to make a deep run into the post season.

6) (-) Magic (11-5)
* #8 in NBA
* #4 in Eastern Conference
* #1 in Southeast Division
* vs #5 Miami in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Grant Hill (19.8 PPG, 7.8 RPG)
The Sniper: Jameer Nelson (42% 3pt on 22/53)
The Grunt: Dwight Howard (16.8 PPG, 12.3 RPG)

Analysis: The Magic are truly a magical team. Although he may of need six years to make it out on the floor, the guy once coined as the greatest player to never play, Grant Hill, has finally made it back to the professional game of basketball and surfaced as a leader. With the help of studs in Dwight Howard (16.8 PPG, 12.3 RPG .. though he's only played 12 of 16 games due to injuries) and Jameer Nelson (15.1 PPG) Hill really has the Magic soaring and looking for a playoff sport. Their schedule isn't forecasted to get any harder anytime soon. Orlando could the third or fourth team in the NBA to reach 20 wins in a couple of weeks.

7) (-) Cavs (11-4)
* #4 in NBA
* #2 in Eastern Conference
* #2 in Central Division
* vs #7 Chicago in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Lebron James (18.7 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 5.0 APG)
The Sniper: Lebron James (53% FG, 49% 3pt on 20/41)
The Grunt: Zydrunas Ilgauskas (14 PPG, 9.5 RPG)

Analysis: King James is certainly doing his thing as a leader, while big men such as Big Z (14 PPG, 9.5 RPG) and Donyell Marshall (18.7 PPG, 9.0 RPG) are having career years on the glass .. Marshall in the scoring department as well. Even Hughes has really developed into a multi-threat of sorts. Point guard Eric Snow has challenged James as the team's premiere passer, but James due to how often he has the ball will continue to lead the team in assists regardless. With guys such as Anderson Varejao, Damon Jones, Drew Gooden and David Wesley coming off the bench it's difficult to figure out how this team even has 4 losses.

8) (-) Heat (9-6)
* #10 in NBA
* #5 in Eastern Conference
* #2 in Southeast Division
* vs #4 Orlando in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Shaquille O'Neal (20.5 PPG, 10.3 RPG)
The Sniper: Antoine Walker (40% 3pt on 15/38)
The Grunt: Udonis Haslem (11.5 PPG, 9.1 RPG)

Analysis: Injuries to Dwyane Wade (only 7 of 15 games played) haven't slowed this team down much. Despite the loss of Wade's hyped numbers (13.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 6.1 APG) Shaq and his arsenal of shooters (Payton, Walker, Jones, Williams, Posey) have continued to get it done, and there's no two ways about it. Both veterans Antoine Walker (15.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG) and Gary Payton (14.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 4.8 APG) are playing great. Haslem is rebounding (11.5 PPG, 9.1 RPG) like a champ and chipping in on Offense, and the likes of Eddie Jones (7 PPG) Jason Williams (7.6 PPG) and Alonzo Mourning (4.3 PPG, 3.9 PPG) are the epitomy of solid off the bench. The Heat have been especially efficient on the road, where they're 5-1 versus being 4-5 back in Florida.

9) (-) Nets (10-4)
* #6 in NBA
* #3 in Eastern Conference
* #1 in Atlantic Division
* vs #6 Washington in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Jason Kidd (17.9 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.8 APG)
The Sniper: Vince Carter (59% FG, 35% 3pt on 15/43)
The Grunt: Jason Collins (10.2 PPG, 8.4 RPG)

Analysis: Close behind the Spurs for the hottest team in the NBA are the Nets, who have won 8 of their last 10 after a miserable 2-2 start. This is a team that is very simply clicking on all cyllindars, and bound to make a run deep into the post season if they can stay healthy. Half Man Half Amazing forward Vince Carter (21.4 PPG) is pretty much back to his Air Canada form, and with some actual talent around him now in guard Jason Kidd (17.9 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.8 APG) and forward Richard Jefferson (16.2 PPG, 7.8 RPG). Throw in the scoring of forward Cliff Robinson (16.2 PPG) and the grunt work of big Jason Collins (10.2 PPG, 8.4 RPG) and what you have is a lethal starting five .. with youngsters in Bernard Robinson (4.9 PPG) Marcus Williams (4.3 PPG) and Nenad Krstic (3.3 PPG, 4.4 RPG) all coming off the bench to hardly slow up a game's momentum. New Jersey could very well be the most dangerous team in the East from here until February.

10) (-) 76ers (7-7)
* #14 in NBA
* #7 in Eastern Conference
* #2 in Atlantic Division
* vs #1 Detroit in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Andre Iguodala (17.9 PPG, 8.1 RPG)
The Sniper: Kyle Korver (43% 3pt on 22/51)
The Grunt: Samuel Dalembert (12.1 PPG, 12.1 RPG)

Analysis: Gone is AI. Left over is AI2 .. who has gradually surfaced as the new face of the Philadelphia 76ers. And it's been a struggling face -- especially as of late with the 76ers losing 4 of their last 5 games, after a great 6-3 start. It hasn't been the injury bug, rather just a sudden upgrade in competition on the schedule, which doesn't appear to be loosening up anytime soon. Philadelphia is set to take on Orlando, Washington, Minnesota and Portland twice in the Weeks to come. Like some other teams amidst these rankings, they're either going to fly to the top or disappear.

11) (-) Wizards (8-6)
* #11 in NBA
* #6 in Eastern Conference
* #3 in Southeast Division
* vs #3 New Jersey in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Antown Jamison (21.6 PPG, 10.8 RPG)
The Sniper: Gilbert Arenas (38% 3pt on 28/73)
The Grunt: Brendon Haywood (11.2 PPG, 8.9 RPG)

Analysis: Antown Jamison is having a career year, and guys like Caron Butler (13.7 PPG) Jarvis Hayes (11.8 PPG, 7.6 RPG) and Brendon Haywood (11.2 PPG, 8.9 RPG) are really coming along. The combination of Stevenson (3.3 PPG) Antonio Daniels (4.2 PPG) and Etan Thomas (5.9 PPG, 5.8 RPG) has really been effective off the bench. Then of course their is Gilbert Arenas, whom could be one of the finest shooters in the NBA in the years to come, and quite capable of scoring (16.2 PPG) on Jamison's off nights. The Wiz are expected to rise in the Power Rankings in the Weeks to come.

12) (-) Rockets (7-8)
* #15 in NBA
* #7 in Western Conference
* #3 in Southwest Division
* vs #2 Minnesota in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Yao Ming (24.4 PPG, 10.5 RPG)
The Sniper: Tracy McGrady (53% FG, 44% 3pt on 34/78)
The Grunt: Chuck Hayes (7.6 PPG, 9.3 RPG)

Analysis: Tough wins outside of Houston (5-3) are the reason for this high ranking, although the Rockets are hurriedly sinking .. currently on a 4 game slide. And though young Chuck Hayes (7.6 PPG, 9.3 RPG) has done his best to step in and fill the shoes of injured Juwan Howard, Houston is still getting handled on the boards more often than not. They're an Offensive team led by guard Tracy McGrady (22.3 PPG) and 7'6" center Yao Ming (24.4 PPG). That said, the only real help they've gotten has come from the likes of Rafer Alston (10.8 PPG, 4.3 APG) and Shane Battier (15.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG) and both are hit or miss. With tough games against Minnesota, Cleveland and Golden State twice coming up .. Houston isn't expected to be at #12 for long in the NBA Power Rankings.

13) (-) Raptors (7-9)
* #20 in NBA
* #9 in Eastern Conference
* #3 in Atlantic Division

The Leader: Chris Bosh (18.6 PPG, 11.6 RPG)
The Sniper: Juan Dixon (40% 3pt on 27/68)
The Grunt: Rashu Nesterovic (8.8 PPG, 8.9 RPG)

Analysis: Look out for the Raptors, whom despite being loaded at guard still signed free agent Rod Buford to a bizarre 3 year contract worth a reported $6.64M. Or maybe it was just some type of insurance incase Juan Dixon didn't develope into the 14.9 PPG (2nd on the team) scorer that he'd become? Eitherway the Raptors are a team on the rise, and young. Led by Chris Bosh (18.6 PPG, 11.6 RPG) and T.J. Ford (14 PPG) this unit should only get better in the years to come. Shooter Mo Peterson is the oldest baller in their starting line-up, which isn't saying much but mad chemistry to come.

14) (-) Mavericks (9-6)
* #9 in NBA
* #5 in Western Conference
* #2 in Southwest Division
* vs #4 Golden State in Playoff Matchup

The Leader: Dirk Nowitzki (20 PPG, 9.5 RPG)
The Sniper: Jason Terry (40% 3pt on 32/81)
The Grunt: Erick Dampier (11.9 PPG, 10.4 RPG)

Analysis: Dirk has been an absolute stud this year (20 PPG, 9.5 RPG) and close behind him has been the sharp-shooting Jason Terry (17.6 PPG) .. both of them putting up great numbers night in and night out. Even young forward Josh Howard (16.7 PPG, 8.5 RPG) has begun to get real aggressive on the glass where he's needed the most. Center Erick Dampier is the epitomy of a grunt, and content to remain as such. This is a team that started out the season 1-4 before winning their last 8 of 10 impressively enough, and against the likes of team's such as Toronto and San Antonio. However, with games against Washington, New Jersey and Detroit to come .. the Mavs will either rise sharply in the rankings, or plummet simply.

15) (-) Sonics (7-9)
* #19 in NBA
* #11 in Western Conference
* #4 in Northwest Division

The Leader: Ray Allen (19.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG)
The Sniper: Rashard Lewis (51% FG, 34% 3pt on 21/61)
The Grunt: Chris Wilcox (9.3 PPG, 12.3 RPG)

Analysis: It's surprising to find the Sonics here, but considering who they've defeated .. it's no longer a surprise. They're a high-scoring team led by Lewis (17.5) and Allen (19.1). And this year the scoring of Ridnour (14.1 PPG) and Swift (13.6 PPG before injured) has really made them a hard team to beat at times. Even big men Chris Wilcox (9.3 PPG) and Danny Fortson (stepping in for Swift, 10.1 PPG) have been active on both ends of the floor.

The Rest

Team - Rank

Lakers - 16
Bulls - 17
Clippers - 18
Nuggets - 19
Celtics - 20
Blazers - 21
Kings - 22
Pacers - 23
Hawks - 24
Bucks - 25
Knicks - 26
Grizzlies - 27
Utah - 28
Bobcats - 29
Hornets - 30

[ThaSpecialist]

like the recaps

(SG Brandon Roy dished 4.3 RPG, but only in 8 of a possible 16 games)

should be "APG"

Fixed it.

Glad you're enjoying!

[Marquis]

This is great. You put a lot of effort into this. Since it's not on PC it is even harder to do the recaps.

Like the last update about the team rankings. There are no such big surprises here. Blazers are struggling a bit, and the injury of Roy don't let to play them better. But I like that it is realistic.

Keep up the hard work man

[ThaSpecialist]

Portland Schedule Thus Far

November of 2006
(Click for Boxscores)

@ Seattle 84 - 93 L
@ Golden State 99 - 110 L
vs Minnesota 104 - 93 L
@ Los Angeles C 103 - 113 L
vs Los Angeles L 107 - 96 L
vs New Orleans 126-125 W
vs Dallas 101 - 79 W
@ Minnesota 107 - 99 W
@ Cleveland 100 - 98 L
@ Boston 109 - 90 W
@ New Jersey 109 - 92 L
vs San Antonio 100 - 99 L
vs New Jersey 124 - 103 L
@ Sacramento 94 - 69 W
vs Phoenix 107 - 96 W
vs Indiana 102 - 82 W

December of 2006

Dec 1st - vs Orlando
Dec 3rd - vs Atlanta
Dec 5th - @ Detroit
Dec 6th - @ Milwaukee
Dec 8th - @ Indiana
Dec 10th - @ Toronto
Dec 11th - @ Philadelphia
Dec 13th - @ Memphis
Dec 15th - vs LA Clippers
Dec 20th - vs Houston
Dec 22nd - vs Toronto
Dec 26th - @ Phoenix
Dec 27th - vs New Orleans
Dec 29th - vs Philadelphia
Dec 30th - @ Utah

Gamer's Note: Man .. do I have a problem with that 6 game road trip from December 5th to December 13th. Those pairs of back-to-back games are going to be killers.

[Tuomas]

Wow, lot of effort on this one looks great

[ThaSpecialist]

BLAZER'S GAME 17

Pre-Game Report

AT

When: December 1st @ 730pm
Where: The Rose Garden Arena, in Portland, OR
Blazers Record: 7-9
Magic Record: 11-5

Inside The Magic -

Team Leaders:

Scoring: SF Grant Hill (19.8)
Rebounding: PF Dwight Howard (12.3)
Assists: PG Jameer Nelson (4.6)
Steals: PG Jameer Nelson (1.69)
Blocks: PF Dwight Howard (2.25)

The Magic are a dangerous team, with some dangerous leaders in Jameer Nelson (15.1 ppg, 4.6 apg) Grant Hill (19.8 ppg, 7.6 rpg) and Dwight Howard (16.8 ppg, 12.3 rpg). They have an effective inside/outside game, but the thing to it all is that it's relatively one-sided .. as in one side of the court. While the Magic may have some serious outside shooting in Nelson, Redick, Garrity, Turkoglu and even Arroyo and Milicic, their inside presence is made up of one guy and one guy only -- Dwight Howard. Orlando is at their weakest on the glass, where occasionally SF Grant Hill (7.6 rpg) will make an appearance, otherwise it's usually up to Howard (12.3 rpg) Milicic (6.3 rpg) and the veteran Bo Outlaw (6.0 rpg) to get it done. If this team is hitting from the field, then they're bound to win. But if they're missing, they're bound to get a low percentage of their bricks .. and are pretty much screwed.

Portland's Priorities -

Team Leaders:

Scoring: SF Darius Miles (14.1)
Rebounding: SF Darius Miles (8.0)
Assists: SF Darius Miles (5.8)
Steals: SG Martell Webster (0.63)
Blocks: SF Darius Miles (0.44)

Portland has what it takes to beat the Magic regardless of where they play. In fact the Blazers may have one of the best inside games in the NBA, simply because of how easily Coach Nate McMillan can rotate his talent, keep them fresh, and keep them out of foul trouble .. while effective and active on both ends of the floor at all times. Orlando does not match up against the Trailblazers at all. The Magic lack any inside game outside of Dwight Howard, and they certainly don't have the bodies and size to eliminate the combination of Magloire (10.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg) Randolph (12.8 ppg, 6.8 rpg) and Aldridge (12.3 ppg, 7.5 rpg) from getting rebounds and putting up points. For Portland, this will be a game won in the paint. Howard will be expected to get his rebounds and points, but if the Blazers can limit the production around him they should able to log their 4th straight victory.

Look For:

The Blazers to use a larger line-up on the outside (Udoko, Miles, Outlaw) around the perimeter to disrupt Orlando's shooters and force more missed shots for their big men to clean up underneath, where they'll certainly have an advantage.

[ThaSpecialist]

Wow, lot of effort on this one looks great

This is great. You put a lot of effort into this. Since it's not on PC it is even harder to do the recaps.

Like the last update about the team rankings. There are no such big surprises here. Blazers are struggling a bit, and the injury of Roy don't let to play them better. But I like that it is realistic.

Keep up the hard work man

Thanks for the words guys .. much, much appreciated.

Working off a console is rough. lol It's a lot of typing, but I'm interested in playing and posting so I'll get it done one way or another.

It just took me about two days to type and figure out how to present the entire November Recap .. lol

While I think PC would be much easier, I also realize that doing what I just did (2 days of going through teams, gathering information, so forth) usually familiarizes myself real well with the league and the players in it.

It's fun. Thanks for following if you have been. If not, welcome on board hopefully.