24 Jan 11 Notre Dame-Boston College: Irish Come Away with Another Close Loss

Elsa/Getty ImagesThis Saturday the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will look to snap a three-game losing streak when they head to Alumni Stadium to take on the Boston College Eagles.The Fighting Irish were no match for Stanford last week, as the Cardinal crushed them 37-14.The Eagles had a rough go against Virginia Kansas City Chiefs jersey
Tech in their last game, as they were shutout 19-0 on their home field. Notre Dame snapped the Eagles six-game win streak in this series with a 20-16 win last season, but will have its work cut out to beat the Eagles on their home field this weekend.If you are thinking about placing a bet on the game this weekend, the current college football odds have the Fighting Irish favored by 2.5 points over the Eagles on the road.Notre Dame (1-3) It has been a rough three weeks for new head coach Brian Kelly and the Fighting Irish, as they had to feel they could have easily won against both Michigan and Michigan State, and then last week they just got their butts kicked at home by Stanford. In the loss against Stanford the Irish couldnfind ways to put points on the board. Notre Dame managed just two field goals until finally scoring a touchdown late in the fourth quarter with the game out of hand.Quarterback Dayne Crist did everything he could to help his team win, as he threw for 304 yards and a touchdown in the loss. But it was the Miami Dolphins jersey
running game that didnshow up, as the Irish had just 44 rushing yards on the day.The defense actually played pretty well considering they were on the field for over 36 minutes of the game. The Irish held the Cardinal to five field goals, or this game could have gotten way out of hand.Boston College ( 2-1, 0-1 ACC)The Eagles ran into a hungry Virginia Tech team last week, but a few things really hurt this team or this game could have been much closer than what it was.The Eagles were intercepted in their own end zone and stopped short of the goal line as time expired. It was a bad day for quarterback Dave Shinskie, as he was responsible for the interception that cost the Eagles their first score, and then later had a fumble and another interception in the second half. Shinksie would eventually be pulled from the game in favor of backup Mike Marscovetra.Running back Montel Harris had a nice day on the ground with 111 yards on 19 carries, but most of those yards came early in the game.The defense actually played extremely well considering how little the offense did in this game. They held the Hokies to just one touchdown and four field goals, as they did everything they could to keep their team in the game. If the defense continues to play like they did against Virginia Tech, the Eagles are going to be just fine this season.Looking at the Odds I think you have to take the Eagles at +2.5 in this game. Their defense is strong enough to really slow down the Notre Dame offense, and I think we will see the offenseMinnesota Vikings
take off as the Fighting Irish are giving up nearly 28 points a game. As much as I like the Eagles to cover the spread in this game, I think you also have to play the UNDER 45 in this one, as these two teams have averaged just 37 points in their last eight meetings.My final score prediction is Boston College 20, Notre Dame 17.Interested in making some money this college football season? Check out what our expert college football handicappers have to offer in their weekly college football picks.

22 Jan 11 USC-Minnesota: Trojans Finally Get It into Third Gear in Defeat of Gophers

Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesLike a car with balky manual transmission and a worn clutch, USC heads into Minnesota looking for some newfound rhythm to counter two games of jerking and stalling.The game opens with Minnesota probing the Trojan defensive center and finding six-pack abs where they expected a soft underbelly.Jurrell Casey and DaJohn Harris absolutely buckle the center of the Gopher line, raising eyebrows among the Minnesota coaching staff. Damn, this wasn't in the films.USC dodges its 3rd-and-long nemesis, due more to a drop than any secondary coverage, but it's still a three-and-out, and USC isn't in a position to turn up its nose at any assistance.Matt Barkley and David Ausberry continue to have the type of chemistry that results in laboratory insurance premiums being sky-high. The 6'4" Reebok San Francisco 49ers #21 Frank GORE Realtree camo Jersey
Ausberry breaks free down the sideline, but Barkley throws it as though Jack was open halfway up the beanstalk. Later, seeing a 10-inch mismatch on the outside, Barkley smartly audibles to a quick fade but manages to get the ball no higher than Ausberry's sternum.I'm getting the feeling that if Barkley was the table setter for Wilt Chamberlain, the Dipper would have averaged about eight a game.USC's defense returns to its early season form, allowing a huge gain on 3rd-and-long, allowing two other 3rd-and-long conversions, and then finally holding in the end zone on a third down bleacher throw to guide Minnesota gently and inevitably into the end zone. Offensive coordinators throughout the country are thinking about taking a knee on first and second down just to set up the Trojan nightmare of down and distance.Allen Bradford motors around right end and over defenders, racking up about 30 yards in three carries in a startling display of size and speed. Before anyone can ask why this guy hasn't been playing, he's quickly ushered off the field, and the awkward questions are postponed.Marc Tyler plunges in on an insistent touchdown run that darn near needed a commercial break due to its sheer duration. If Sisyphus has cable down in Tartarus, he's pushing that rock with renewed confidence after watching Marc struggle and strain for about a 10 count before eventually barging into the end zone.Barkley finds Ronald Johnson steaming behind the secondary and lays the ball perfectly in his lap for a score. Maybe it's just tall receivers that screw with Matt's depth perception. The Trojans celebrate a strengthening pulse, but a two-point conversion attempt looks like a bunch of guys late for work trying to crowd into a packed elevator, and they're left contemplating the stairs.Jawanza Starling breaks with recent Trojan safety tradition and makes a play on a wobbly, underthrown football. The ball clangs off his hands as though he were ringing accompaniment to Quasimodo's cry of "SANCTUARY!", but he manages to haul in the rebound. If Jawanza has a Reebok Washington Redskins #98 ORAKPO Realtree camo Jersey
girlfriend and he's inclined to give shoulder rubs, he might be flirting with a domestic abuse charge.The pick gives the Trojans a chance to grab a working margin before half, but the only thing more predictable than USC throwing on 1st-and-goal inside the five is USC going deep after a change of possession in plus territory. Barkley waits, waits, finds nobody open, and inexplicably does a blind fouette turn into a well-blocked defensive end, aborting an end of half drive.The second half starts, and the USC offensive machine isn't running any smoother. Under pressure, Barkley lobs a prayer into the middle of the Gopher secondary, forgetting that that particular tactic only seems to work against USC. Predictably, the ball is gobbled up, and the Gophers have much-needed momentum.Minnesota takes a 14-13 lead, and somewhere the South Dakota State A.D. is frantically trying to get Pat Haden on the phone to schedule a home and home. It may not be time to panic for USC, but after ten-and-a-half quarters of frequent stalls, the people pleading for calm are looking a bit like Kevin Bacon at the end of Animal House.It's time for senior leadership, time for the people who have been through the wars to stand up and make a statement. Okay, they weren't answering their cells, so freshman Robert Woods, USC's most consistent and soon to be best player, runs the kickoff back for a nerve-soothing touchdown.Just like that, the Trojans suddenly get the feel for the soggy clutch and find third gear without sounding like the cat chased the silverware down the garage disposal. For a 15-minute stretch USC plays tough, physical, and smart. The line blocks ferociously, the defense swarms, and shockingly even the flags stop falling.Minnesota, once dreaming upset, is now faced with a reasonable facsimile of an actual USC football team. They don't like what they see.Barkley connects with Ausberry on a back shoulder fade, and the two immediately get together to find out what went wrong. Bradford, a horse all day, pops free for a touchdown sprint, and those deferred questions bubble up again. Very quickly the game becomes a rout, and for the first time the Trojans get to cruise with the top down and give the little finger wave to pretty girls on the sidewalk.It's not all hair blowing in the breeze and designer sunglasses Reebok Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Troy Polamalu Realtree camo Jersey
for USC. The front four still can't get pressure on the quarterback without a linebacker riding shotgun, and Barkley's ability to spin the football seems to degrade with every second he stays in the pocket. The penalties are still an issue, it being uncertain whether the Trojans played a relatively clean half or the officials lost interest after the game got out of reach.But at least for a quarter, USC shows that it still has a high gear. Perhaps the engine just needs to be broken in slowly. Maybe they'll up the RPMs for a half against Washington State, the last tuneup before the real season begins. With Oregon, Stanford, and Arizona on the horizon, USC needs to be revving for 60 minutes.

18 Jan 11 Kentucky Wildcats Tackle Florida Gators: UK Seems Prepared to Go Streak-Busting

Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesOver the years, it has become almost a foregone conclusion that Kentucky will lose to Florida in football. In fact, the Wildcats have not beaten the Gators since 1984. Yet, all streaks must eventually come to an end, and Kentucky finally appears to have a legitimate shot at ending this particular New England Patriots jersey
one on Saturday. When comparing Kentucky and Florida, two things are immediately clear. Kentucky is entering the game with more momentum, while Florida has been more battle-tested. The statistics going into Saturday's game weigh heavily in Kentucky's favor, at least offensively. Nationally, Kentucky is ranked 32nd in passing yards, 15th in rushing yards, and 11th in points scored. On the other hand, Florida is ranked 103rd, 52nd, and 32nd, respectively. Florida does have a slight edge on the defensive end as it's ranked 16th compared to Kentucky's 34th in points against. Yet, these statistics may be a bit misleading. Kentucky's first three opponents were significantly weaker than Florida's. Thus far Florida has faced Miami of Ohio, South Florida, and Tennessee. Conversely, Kentucky has faced Louisville, Western Kentucky, and Akron.Statistically speaking, Western Kentucky and Akron are two of the worst teams in the nation and are both still searching for their first victory of the season. Nevertheless, Kentucky cannot be faulted for its quality of opponents. The 'Cats have beaten the teams they were supposed to beat and have done it in a convincing fashion, including a 63-28 win against Western Kentucky and a 47-10 thumping of Akron. The biggest concern for Kentucky against Florida will be the defense, specifically the secondary. Kentucky's cornerbacks were torched time and time again against Akron. Fortunately for the Wildcats, the Akron receivers were simply unable to catch the ball. The secondary will not be so lucky against Florida. The Gators' receivers are much more talented than anyone the Wildcats have seen so far this season and are known for making big plays much more often than they do mistakes. However, Kentucky does have a few things working in its favor against Florida. First of all, New Orleans Saints jersey
Florida will be without its best receiving threat, Chris Rainey. The junior wide receiver was dismissed from the team after being arrested on charges of aggravated stalking. The loss leaves Florida with one proven receiver in junior Deonte Thompson, but otherwise a lot of inexperience.Also, Florida quarterback John Brantley has been somewhat disappointing in his debut as a starter. His numbers are solid, but he has often looked uncomfortable in the pocket and has not shown the same sort of big play potential that Florida fans were accustomed to with Tim Tebow behind center. This is evidenced by his pedestrian 5.72 yards per passing attempt and lack of running ability. Yet, even if the defense fails to contain Florida, Kentucky will still have a fighting chance because of its offense. The Wildcats have high-scoring aspirations primarily because of wide receiver Randall Cobb and running back Derrick Locke. Although Cobb gets most of the publicity, Locke leads the SEC and is 12th in the nation in rushing yards with an eye-popping 6.1 yards per carry. Yet, not only are New York Giants jersey
the Wildcats explosive offensively, they also make very few mistakes. In fact, they are the only team in the SEC that has not yet committed a turnover on offense. If Kentucky can continue this mix of efficiency and productivity on offense, it should be able to hang with the Gators, even if the game comes down to a shoot-out.

15 Jan 11 St. Louis Rams "Courtroom Drama" Commentary

The St. Louis Rams' season thus far has played out like your favorite television courtroom drama.St. Louis opened its season in spectacular fashion, trotting out a surprise witness in its defense against the Broncos and harassing Jake Plummer on the stand until he all but conceded the game with turnovers. Jeff Wilkins posted bail for the stalling offense, and the Rams beat an exceptional Denver team.The Rams' offense was again cited for Failure to Appear against San Francisco, and St. Louis dropped an embarrassing third straight loss to a 49ers squad that always seem to be up for the Rams, despite its inferior talent. After two games, the Rams finally knocked the rust off their offense and began producing consecutive wins. The Rams' all-star prosecution team of Marc Bulger, Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce and San Francisco 49ers jersey
Steven Jackson found their rhythm and started posting numbers Rams fans have grown accustomed to. Unfortunately, it was about this time that the Rams began mustering their defense, utilizing the services of the Public Defender's Office. Despite high-profile signings such as La'Roi Glover and Will Witherspoon and the acquisition of coordinator Jim Haslett, it seemed the Rams' offense would once more need to outscore their opponents to win. Despite the apparent holes in their defense and having had clear-cut losses overturned on technicalities by Brett Favre and Kurt Warner, the Rams were sitting pretty at 4-1. Along the way they met up with ex-hostile witness, and current Lions offensive coordinator Mike Martz. The courtroom was set alight by offensive theatrics and the Rams pulled out a hard-fought victory in a 41-34 fireworks display. The offense was finding its rhythm and protecting the football while the defense was regressing, but still forcing turnovers and doing just enough to win. However, the Rams would then face a veritable Murderer's Row of Seattle Seahawks jersey
opponents (Seattle, at San Diego, Kansas City, at Seattle and at Carolina), and whether they are a good football team would truly be put to the test.The jury's still out.The Rams were outmaneuvered in the closing moments of a titanic struggle with the Seahawks and suffered defeat against LaDainian Tomlinson and Shawne Merriman - at the time enjoying a suspended sentence - in what proved to be an open-and-shut case.Hoping that the extraordinarily poor run defense against Tomlinson was just an aberration, the Rams' defenders dedicated a week to tackling technique to find out if they could truly stop the run against Larry Johnson.The Rams can't handle the truth.St. Louis' defenders have been found guilty of being unable to stop the run and being ineffectual in pressuring the quarterback (with Leonard Little receiving the lone acquittal). The Rams' offense has begun turning the ball over and the unit's three fumbles make it an accessory in the loss to Kansas City. The Rams must shore up their defense and prove that the offensive turnovers are merely temporarySt. Louis Rams jersey
insanity in order to make a run to the playoffs. This brings us to this Sunday, and Judgment Day in Seattle. A victory will mean a reprieve and a probable season long battle for the NFC West. A defeat will result in the harshest sentence possible: "Wait 'til next year."Follow the St. Louis Rams drama all season long (4)

14 Jan 11 Seattle Seahawks "Will Mike Holmgren retire or return? He has reasons to do either"

So is this really how Mike Holmgren is going to go out -- with an embarrassing blowout loss at the hands of the franchise that he once led to glory? What an inglorious end that would be to his successful but unfulfilled tenure in Seattle.A legendary coach in Green Bay, Holmgren has yet to bring Seattle the title everyone hoped he could secure. And a 42-20 loss to Brett Favre and the Packers on Saturday showed that Holmgren's Seahawks have some things to fix if they are going to get back to the Super Bowl.But will Holmgren decide he wants to try it one more time? He has one season left on his contract and has hinted for the past couple of years that his time is nearing an end. He said he will evaluate his future over the next month and decide whether he wants to continue as the Seahawks' coach. It's hard to Pittsburgh Steelers jersey
say whether he will come back, but you can make a case for either decision, and Holmgren surely will be considering the reasons for retiring and returning.Reasons to retire Holmgren has said he needs to make sure he still has the fire, but he also has said losing hurts more now than it used to. He obviously has the fire -- one look at his sideline demeanor tells that -- but if he decides it has become detrimental to his mental wellbeing, that will be a reason to retire.Holmgren also has said he wants to make sure the team is still listening to him and his message is getting through. Based on the team's complete collapse against the Packers, there would seem to be some question about that. That might be a reason to retire.Holmgren has said on more than one occasion that he would like another chance to be a team's general manager again. He was stripped of those duties after the 2003 season, and he has no chance of getting them back in Seattle because Tim Ruskell is firmly entrenched as the team president in charge of football operations. Leaving so he might later become some other team's GM might be another reason to retire.While Holmgren and Ruskell got along well in 2005, when Ruskell first arrived and helped configure the roster into a Super Bowl team, the two have had some disagreements over the past two San Diego Chargers jersey
offseasons. First, Ruskell made the mistake of not putting the franchise tag on All-Pro guard Steve Hutchinson -- a blunder that incensed Holmgren (along with the entire fan base). Then Ruskell traded Darrell Jackson, a Holmgren draftee who had been the team's top receiver. Holmgren made it clear he was opposed to that move, particularly because Ruskell sent Jackson to division rival San Francisco for a mere fourth-round pick. Then Ruskell focused the 2007 draft on defense and failed to bring in much-needed line help or a good tight end for Holmgren's offense -- both problems that plagued the team all season and were especially glaring weaknesses against the Packers. The philosophical chasm between Holmgren and Ruskell seems to be widening, and that might be yet another reason to retire.Reasons to returnSo, with so many reasons to retire, what might entice Holmgren to return?For starters, he still has a pretty good team -- one capable of contending for at least another couple of years. He has a Pro Bowl quarterback, the best left tackle in the game and a good fleet of receivers (if they can stay healthy). And Holmgren has the best defense the Seahawks have had since he has been in Seattle. All reasons to return. But Holmgren probably won't return unless Ruskell assures him that they will bring in some help up front on offense and try to find a good tight end. Aside from left tackle Walter Jones, who himself is aging, the entire line is full of question marks. If Ruskell brings in some help there, it would be a reason to return.Lastly, Holmgren might just San Francisco 49ers jersey
choose to honor the final year of his contract. Holmgren might decide to return for one last year, then sit out a season or two before returning as a GM somewhere -- if anyone would gamble on his ability to perform that job better than he did in his early days with the Hawks. In the end, it might be as simple as finishing what he started. That certainly would be a reason to return.

13 Jan 11 San Antonio Spurs' Bench Could Help Close Gap Against Los Angeles Lakers

Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThe real test for the revamped San Antonio Spurs will come next month at the Staples Center, when the Lakers should have Pau Gasol back.With a hobbled Kobe Bryant, who did not play in the fourth quarter after experiencing back spasms in addition to a broken finger on his shooting hand, and no Gasol,Tuesday's gamedid not amount to a fair litmus test for San Antonio.The Spurs will take the 105-85 win nonetheless. Do not expect Gregg Popovich to call the league office tomorrow asking for a replay of the game when both Detroit Lions
squads can suit up their full compliments.Finally, this $80 millionroster grabbed a signature win against a foe not from Texas.Finally, the Spurs put a collective foot on the gas pedal late in the fourth quarter and ran away from a team they might face in the postseason.Waxingsub-.500 opponents was no fun for South Texas' championship hopeful. The Spurs needed this contest a lot more than the Lakers, and that will be reflected when the squads meet again in L.A.They needed it, and they snatched it like a dog wrestling its favorite toy from its owner.Popovich knows he cannot expect toreplicate a58 percent shooting performancein the remaining three meetings with the Lakers. If someone figures out how to Xerox such things, he won't race to the phone to find the brilliant inventor.The Spurs coach values defense too much to ever condone a steadyreliance on putting the ball in the hole at a high percentage.He also should not anticipate or want to face a Bryant at 50 percent again.There is a reason sports writers often joke about him someday scoring 30 with a severed leg. Bryant would not have headed to the locker room multiple times for a minor ailment.If Bryant left the court for good with 12 minutes still to play, the pain must have been excruciating.There is, however, one thing the Spurs can count on happening again.The Spurs reserves outscored their Lakers counterparts 42 to 20. Many of those 20 bench points for L.A. came with Bryant out and San Antonio in a brief daze.At one point, the guys in white enjoyed a 25-2 advantage in points scored by players off the pine.The Spurs boast the NBA's highest scoring bench. Tuesday night, in a game San Antoniohad to have, the reserves hit their season average.George Hill led the charge with 13 points. He cut the baseline and dunked off a pinpoint Green Bay Packers jersey
feed from Antonio McDyess. Hestripped Bryant at midcourt and sprinted to the other end for a two-handed slam to electrify the ATT Center crowd.McDyess came to play early, nailingtwo mid-range jumpers and cutting to the rim for two layups.His eight points and five rebounds helped San Antonio erase an early 12-4 deficit.Manu Ginobili delivered six gorgeous dimes to go along with nine points. He drilled a pair of three-pointers and sliced to the rim just after Duncan corralled an offensive rebound for a backbreaking layin to swing back the momentum to the Spurs side.Roger Mason Jr. looked sharp from long distance early, swooshing several20-foot jumpers and draining a trey for nine points.Even Marcus Haislip hit a three-pointer in his brief minute or so of mop-up duty.The Spurs bench has produced at this level on most nights, and it would be reasonable to expect similar production in a potential playoff matchup.The Lakers have struggled to get consistent contributions from the bench brigade outside of Lamar Odom and what Shannon Brown can do on some nights.Even with Gasol, the reserve corp for the champs remains a concern.It could remain a boon for the Spurs.Duncan played 39 minutes Tuesday, but Popovich can afford to play his franchise star that many minutes in big games.Continued terrific outings froman upgradedsupporting cast will help Duncan keep his minutes at a career-low level. This will allow him to be fresher for jousts with the Lakers and other contenders.Meanwhile, Bryant has logged several 40-plus minute games againsta fewsub-.500 outfits.Duncan can rely on one of the other bigs to produce a double-figure effort at least once a week. Dejuan Blair and McDyess have each lit up defenseless teams more than once this season.I have not mentioned the injured Matt Bonner or Michael Finley. Finley is a clutch scorer oozing veteran savvy, and Bonner stretches interior defenses with his long-range bombing.Even Ian Mahinmi produced in the last week. After two years spent donning sport coats, Mahinmi wore a jersey Sunday nightand scored 15 points to help San Antonio pull away from the woeful New Jersey Nets.Tuesday, there were glimpses of problems the Spurs still need to fix, with five turnovers to start the fourth quarter at the top of Houston Texans jersey
the list. They have a long way to go to get to the Lakers' level.A healthy Gasol and a semi-healthy Bryant available in clutch time will provide a more sufficient test of the Spurs' titlemoxie.For now, a victory against an elite foe, really anyone with more wins than losses, will do.The Spursbench closed an early gap Tuesday night; it could do the same in May andJune.

12 Jan 11 Pivot Points: Andrew Bynum Is the NBA's Next Great Center, Why Trade Him?

Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesTrue centers are a rare commodity in the NBA, which makes it?hard?for me to?comprehend why?the Los Angeles Lakers would even consider parting with Andrew Bynum.The approaching NBA trade deadline has increased speculation on every spectrum as to where certain players may end Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
up and?which teams can improve with a move, but it's just as?important to note the deal you choose to decline may be the smartest.Numerous names have surfaced as possible targets for the Lakers including Chris Paul, Chris Bosh, and Kirk Hinrich, and all involve trading Bynum, who?seriously has a chance to be the NBA's next great center.Of course, there are numerous obstacles in his path to reach that destination, but the positives in his case far outweigh the negatives, and some?opinions which are held about Bynum may not be true.The biggest fear about Bynum is that he will eventually suffer another knee injury and his career will become like Portland's Greg Oden's, one that is defined by the body's failure to hold up under duress.My opinion on Bynum's injury issues differs from the norm because I feel he has been more a victim of coincidence rather than a harbinger of a perpetually injured reserve player.The injury in 2008 was scary but it could have been worse, and the one in 2009 was caused by Kobe Bryant inadvertently falling into Bynum's knee while off balance.This is hardly something that's habitual, and his ability to stay relatively injury free this year may stand as a testament to that. Plus, if that's the single biggest concern about Bynum, then trading him would be insane.Bynum is only 23 years old, in his fourth season in the league, and is trying to master one of the most difficult positions in basketball, and his progress has been exceptional thus far.Bynum had the privilege of learning the nuances of the game from Laker great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and not only has he accepted Kareem's instruction, he has proved to be a quick study as well.He?was blessed with great size and athleticism, but it's been his aptitude in the paint that has been impressive. He has great footwork, can pivot to eitherReebok Indianapolis Colts 18 Peyton Manning Realtree camo Jersey
hand, and is developing a decent mid-range shot.He's also a competent passer in the post and seems to understand the Lakers' scheme, although he does have occasional lapses in judgement and his post defense could use some work.Bynum's upside is phenomenal, though, as his averages of 15.8 points and 8.4 rebounds?this season will attest, and in the absence of forward Pau Gasol, he has?at times looked dominant.This makes me wonder why the Lakers would be interested in dealing a player into whom they have invested so much time and effort, especially one that is making decent strides to return the investment.Chris Bosh is the most intriguing option for the Lakers and I am a fan of his talents, but what benefit would a move for Bosh really serve the Lakers other than to say another player is needed to repeat as champions?It's not worth trading a player like Bynum, who has the chance to be a legendary player, for someone like Bosh, who is a great player but has little chance to be held in that light.Furthermore, why should the Lakers make a move at all considering they are the defending champions and they won the title with basically the same roster as they have now?The deadline is for teams looking to improve their rosters in hopes of elevating their chances for a postseason run, so it makes sense for the handful of other teams with championship aspirations, but not the Lakers.Los Angeles has shown the ability to be dominant at times this season, and much of that has occurred while Bynum was in the game. ?So in truth, the solution for the Lakers lies outside of making a deal.Bynum does at times look?lost in the?flow of the Lakers' scheme and there are some areas that could use improvement, but those are problems caused by thralls of youth and are ones that can be corrected.Remember, Reebok Minnesota Vikings 28 Adrian Peterson Realtree camo Jersey
he is only 23, so imagine what his game could resemble barring another injury in the next three or four years? We could be witnessing the roots of greatness sprout before our very eyes.It would be much better to watch those roots blossom into trees in Los Angeles than to see another team receive the fruits of the Lakers' labor because of an ill-fated and unnecessary trade.

10 Jan 11 NBA Trade Rumors Come True: Knicks Trade for Tracy McGrady and Cap Room

Jonathan Ferrey/Getty ImagesA trade months in the making finally became official as the NBA neared its trading deadline, but not without a couple of speed bumps.The Knicks acquired Tracy McGrady Thursday in a three-team trade with the Kings and Rockets.Late Wednesday night many sources reported the Rockets had agreed to trade McGrady to the Kings in exchange for Kevin Martin. However, the Knicks were still able to prevail in their quest to acquire the former All-Star with a little help from McGrady agent, Arn Tellem, who declared potential fireworks Cleveland Browns jersey
should T-Mac have been traded to the Kings.Tellem represents several Kings players, and one can only bet Kings brass didn care to find out what he meant by fireworks.Also coming to New York will be Sergio Rodriguez via Sacramento. Jared Jeffries and Jordan Hill will be heading to Houston with Martin, while Larry Hughes, Carl Landry, and Joey Dorsey will join Sacramento.The Rockets will also receive protected draft picks from the Knicks.In acquiring McGrady, not only do the Knicks receive a major scorer and gifted passer, but, by trading Jeffries, they will be able to offer two free agents maximum contracts this summer.As McGrady opportunities in New York have been discussed for days now (bring the competitive spirit back to the Garden, and in return rejuvenate his career as he looks for a new contract of his own this summer), let take a look at where the Knicks stand going forward.Essentially, the team has gone all in. In an all or nothing hope, the Knicks surrendered some of their youth (present and future) for a chance at revitalizing the entire franchise this summer via free agency.Many around the league have considered this a trade of Jordan Hill and a future draft selection for a chance at two maximum-contract All-Stars.The key to the deal is the Knicks being able to convert that coveted Dallas Cowboys jersey
cap room into two highly coveted players.While this move could pay major dividends, it could also be costly for the Knicks.In order to be happy with this move, fans need to start coping with the fact that LeBron James may not sign with the Knicks.That right. Ive said it before, and now Im saying it again.This cap clearing move was not a "LeBron or bust" move. It was made to give Donnie Walsh the best opportunity to improve the team this summer.The fact of the matter is, with the Cavs recent acquisition of Antawn Jamison, James may not want to leave his hometown. Instead, the Knicks could be welcoming Joe Johnson along with his former teammate Amare Stoudemire, or even Chris Bosh. Dwyane Wade also remains an outside possibility.If fans are hanging on to the hope that James will be a Knick as the only option, they may end up sorely disappointed come this summer.While James may be the best of options, he is certainly not the only one. Walsh has recognized this and is prepared with Plan B options.As far as which two major Plan B free agents the Knicks are able to sign, it is going to be a win-win situation. Frankly, any of those signings would give the Knicks a lot more hope than the team currently has.If Walsh is able to secure James, then the ground he walks on should be worshipped by Knicks fans. He will have accomplished the seemingly impossible, luring James away from a championship contender to start over to build something special in New York.The Cavs should be content that Danny Ferry has done everything he can thus far Denver Broncos jersey
to show King James he means business, and by business, I mean winning a championship.If I were LeBron James, I wouldn want to leave Cleveland.Nevertheless, if Walsh is able to lure any two of the aforementioned free agents, he will still have done his job quite well.While there is no guarantee James will come to be king in New York, with $30 million in cap space this summer, signing two high-profile free agents is a strong possibility for the Knicks.Walsh just needs to make it happen.

9 Jan 11 Fantasy Basketball Box Score Breakouts

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesHere a look at some fantasy basketball players that blew up the box score last night.Courtney Lee, New Jersey Nets Lee had 21 points for the Nets. He averaging 19.5 points over the past four games.Marquis Daniels, Boston Celtics Daniels had 16 points for the C. Reebok Baltimore Ravens #52 Ray Lewis Realtree camo Jersey
He a decent play while Paul Pierce (thumb) is out.Jerry Stackhouse, Milwaukee Bucks Stack had 16 points for the Bucks. He been in double-figures the past three games, averaging 13.3 points.Taj Gibson, Chicago Bulls Taj had 14 points and 9 rebounds. Joakim Noah was unable to go.Dahntay Jones, Indiana Pacers Jones had 17 points against the Bulls. He been spotty of late, and is no long a fantasy option.Eddie House, New York Knicks House had 15 points for his new squad. He had four in each of his previous two games so you can trust him.Nicolas Batum, Portland Trail Blazers Batum erupted for 31 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists. Id love to say he can build on this game, but I wouldn chase this box score.Rudy Fernandez, Portland Trail Blazers Fernandez dropped 18 on the Wolves. He way too inconsistent.Chase Budinger, Houston Rockets Chase had 14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. He was also in the starting lineup. Budinger has been solid lately, and is a decent option in daily leagues.Wesley Matthews, Utah Jazz Matthews had 18 points against the Rockets. He been in double-figures in four of the last five games.Anthony Tolliver, Golden State Warriors Tolliver had a monster game with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists. Great game, but Id want to see more like it before adding him.C.J. Watson Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
and Anthony Morrow, Golden State Warriors Watson had 17 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals. Morrow had 15 points, 5 assists, and 6 steals. Both are playing great and should be in your lineups.

8 Jan 11 New Jersey Nets: A Look Ahead at Draft Prospects

Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesThe Nets are on a countdown to 10 wins to avoid the fate of the worst record ever. In light of their historic failure, there are essentially guaranteed to finish with the worst record in the NBA. For the Nets, the good news is that there really are some major talents available in this draft who would fit nicely.With the worst record, the Nets are guaranteed to get at least one of the top four picks. Right now, the top four prospects are:John WallEvan TurnerDerick FavorsDeMarcus CousinsThe difference Reebok Denver Broncos #15 Tim Tebow Realtree camo Jersey
between Favors and Cousins is relatively small. So it would come down to a matter of preference as to style and team fit.The top pick is John Wall. He is the next Jason Kidd. He has incredible floor vision and is fearless. He is clutch and has shown the ability to score in the paint. He needs to work on his jump shot and cut down on his turnovers. There is no one who does not think that Wall is the best player.Evan Turner is a 6'7" stud wing who can play either shooting guard or small forward. He has a great handle and has shown the ability to come through in the clutch. Ohio State is a title contender with him and only average without him. Even though Wall has the better potential, Turner has been the better player this year. The only real knock on Turner is that he needs to improve the range on his jump shot.Derrick Favors is a power forward. He is explosive athletically. He rebounds and blocks shots with ferocity. He is smooth around the basket and defends well. He will only improve as he gets older and stronger. The only real knocks on him are that he needs to do a better job of setting up in the post and that he is only 6'9".DeMarcus Cousins is thick and strong. He is dominating in college because there are no players capable of defending him in the SEC. He is relatively quick as well. He has excellent rebounding instincts and a soft touch in the paint. Cousins has the ability to play both PF and center.Among these four prospects, the only one who does not fill a need is Wall. However, he would enable the Nets to trade Harris for a scoring Reebok Green Bay Packers #12 Aaron Rodgers Realtree camo Jersey
wing such as Rudy Gay. Or the Nets could play both Harris and Wall together. Wall is 6'4" and strong. He could guard opposing shooting guards. No matter what, the Nets are guaranteed to get a tremendous athlete who can play in this year's lottery.However, that is not all. The Nets also have the 26th pick and the 31st. The biggest problem with projections is that a lot can change in the NCAA Tournament. Some players who could declare might stay. However, with a little educated guess work, here are some of the potential prospects at 26:Devin Ebanks, SFQuincy Poindexter, SFPaul George, SFWillie Warren, GGordon Hayward, SFDamion James, SFElliot Williams, GIt appears that most of the players currently ranked in the 20s are small forwards. The good news is that the Nets need a small forward. The bad news is that none of these players are sure things. Of this group, I would hope that Quincy Poindexter is available. He is a great athlete who already understands the difference between a good shot and a bad shot.At 31, the Nets should look for a player with a legitimate NBA skill. A great rebounder or a pure shooter should be the target with this pick. Keep an eye out for someone like Trevor Booker or Gani Lawal. Both are very good on the boards and good athletes. Booker is a little Reebok Green Bay Packers #52 Clay Matthews Realtree camo Jersey
short and Lawal has no jump shot. As such, they are exactly the type of talented players who fall to the second round.The great news for Nets fans is that with a stud rookie and a smart free agent signing, the Nets can immediately become playoff contenders in the East.There is some hope.