“[Jordan's] number shouldn’t be worn by any player in the NBA,” James told TNT’s Chris Sager.

The guy’s right.

This past Thursday, the Cleveland Cavaliers entered American Airlines Arena to take on Dwyane Wade and Co., but not only was this a showdown of (what I believe) two of the NBA’s best players, but it also came with a little sizzle.

Whether it be Dwyane Wade smashing, destroying, dismantling, annihilating Andersen Varejao (in the new Jordan’s):

or whether it be LeBron James showing us how to finish a game, with PURE defense and clutch baskets.

Yes, this game had it all. Trash talk, stardom, everything! But, maybe the one topic that should be most talked about, came at the end of the game, with LeBron, Chris Sager, and Mo Williams listening in:

In my opinion, this is probably one of the most humble, and loyal moments EVER in NBA history.

Why? Well LeBron James is supposedly the next “big” thing (and he is living up to it), as he continues cruising by the record books, making the $$$ from Nike, and much much more.

With all of this hype, LeBron James can easily say he wants to wear 23, but he doesn’t. This shows how much the young phenom from Akron has matured. This shows how much respect a guy like LeBron has for the game, and the game’s G.O.A.T.

I’m about to say something crazy…

but Michael Jordan should be honored.

And with that said, LeBron James will end this season, whether it be with a ring or not, playing his last season with the number of 23. So many memories since his being here, but now we may see the true uprsing of LeBron. Not the legacy of 23, but a new legacy, a new legend, and a new era…

The era of number 6.

Now that my opinion is out in the air, I want to hear yours:

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* – PHOTO COURTESY: NIKELEBRON.NET

With the city of Cleveland’s pride on the line, and with last season’s heartbreaking Eastern Conference Championship loss still fresh in the mind of LeBron James and Cleveland fans, the Cavaliers got a redeeming 102-93 win over the Orlando Magic, last night.

Mo Williams, who previously struggled in the Conference Finals, found his shots this time around. He scored 22 points (9-9) in the first half of the game, and added 4 assists. Williams finished the game with 28 total points, 6 assists, and 1 rebound. Also, an aggressive LeBron James scored a season high 36 points, with 4 assists, and 8 rebounds.

In the much anticipated Showdown between the NBA’s two self-proclaimed “Supermen,” Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard–Howard (11 points, 7 rebounds) outscored and out rebounded O’Neal (10 points, 4 rebounds). And, at the Free Throw Line O’Neal went 2 of 4, and Howard was 5 of 12.

Getting his second start in place of Anderson Varejao, JJ Hickson had his best game of the season—scoring 9 points, with 6 rebounds. And although he traveled with the team, Delonte West didn’t sit on the bench with his teammates. He was declared inactive just before the start of the game, due to “internal matters.”

There were swirls of trades and signings this off-season, and the swirling has continued into the regular season,  and you know what? Not much has seemed to changed as we head into the early weeks of the NBA season.

There has been speculation on:

• Stephen Jackson leaving
• Carlos Boozer wanting out
• Monta Ellis considering leaving
• Delonte being on the block

And a few others.

But one rumor that seems t0 be picking up a lot of momentum seems to be a much tastier thought.

Allen Iverson to Cleveland.

Yes, that’s right. Cavs fans have heard Antonio Daniels as well, but those talks have stopped.

A.I. has been quoted saying he would consider retiring due to his role on the Grizzlies (A.I. has been coming off the bench). But, if talks between Memphis and Cleveland get going, A.I. might just reconsider (or if he is released by Memphis).

Now with Cleveland struggling, can A.I. be an answer to the Cavs’ early woes?

I’ll let you decide:

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PHOTO COURTESY:(Noah Graham / Getty Images)

Many athletes and celebrities were in attendance and sitting courtside at the historic MSG to witness the Lebron James Show, including: former Tribe Pitcher CC Sabathia and several of his World Series Champion teammates (fresh from a New York Yankee Victory Parade); Jay Z; John Legend; Chris Rock; DJ Grand Master Flash; Woody Allen; plus Charles Oakley and several former Knick players.

Several members of the media had a field day, following James around and snapping pictures of him. Also, talk regarding whether or not James will re-sign with the Cavaliers in 2010 was the topic of the night. Not being one to disappoint, and being all that the local New York media hypes him up to be whenever he plays in their city, James put on a show for the spectators and scored 21 points, had 5 rebounds and 7 assists at halftime.

Although the night belonged to James, who finished with 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists; two of his teammates also scored in double figures. Mo Williams added 12 points, and Daniel Gibson scored 11 points.

On March 5, 2008, LeBron James lights up Madison Square garden with a spectacular showing, dropping 5o points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists and 4 steals.

A near jaw jolt to the face of Spike Lee.

Spike probably rubbed off the boo-boo, forgot about it, then moved on.

Wrong.

On February 4, 2009, LeBron James comes back to New York for the second time. But this time, he feels like putting on a show for everyone, including friends as Jay-Z, Beyonce, etc. LeBron dazzles the New York arena with 52 points, 9 rebounds, 11 assists, and 2 blocks, barely missing the last 50-point-triple double since Kareem.

Simply, as the NBA says, amazing.

Oh, and I think that this blow to Spike Lee’s jaw, probably left a couple bones broken.

So, with the Cavs heading into New York on Friday (11/6), will LeBron put on another show? Will Spike Lee be able to handle another blow? Will the Knicks be able to take another blow?

I think not.

On November 6, 2009 — tonight — The Cavs head into New York pissed. I mean, they just lost to the Bulls at the Q. I personally feel sorry for New York.

Cleveland is finally getting their game in tune with Shaq, Parker, and Moon. They are incorporating them into the plays with more ease and patience.

Remember last year’s Cavs? They went on a 10+ game win streak after they lost to the Celtics in last year’s season opener. I believe that these Cavs are attempting to do the same, with the Knicks as the next victim.

But the question is, what will LeBron do?

Here is my opinion, take it as you want it. (Comment box is below)

LeBron will not, (repeat) will not, blow up.

Why do you say this Devon?

Well, let’s start with maturity. LeBron has shown us every year an improvement in all areas, especially on-court, and off-court maturity. LeBron realizes that there has been one goal in mind since the 2003-04 season:

To win a championship.

With this being LeBron’s final contracted year with his hometown team, LeBron is hungrier, more determined, and salivating more than ever for the taste of an NBA ring. This game will show just that, as LeBron DOES NOT go off.

Look for LeBron to continue incorporating the new-comers, Shaq and Parker. Look for him to show that this isn’t the Cleveland LeBron’s anymore, but that it is the Cleveland Cavaliers, and hat this is a team to be reckoned with. I mean come on. With Mo, Shaq, Delonte, et al, these guys have a solid squad and bench.

I do expect LeBron to go off in one category though: his passing.

LeBron knows damn well he has shooters. So, why not kick it out? With everyone (including the Knicks) expecting to see the “LeBron James Show – Part 3″, I’m sure LeBron will realize he can beat the Knicks without even dropping 20, and that’s a fact.

Sorry New York, you have the baseball team (who won last night), the two football teams…but no basketball team.

In the end, Cleveland will destroy the Knicks, LeBron will not go off, and we will all continue our simple, yet boring lives.

Spike, your jaw is safe.

But for those of you wanting a show, LeBron will put it on, but it just might not be tonight or tomorrow. The King knows just when his real season starts. Not in April, not in May..

..but in June.

But I could be wrong…and if LeBron does go off, please bash me. Comments always appreciated.

Take a look at LeBron’s two unforgettable performances below!

LeBron vs New York, March 5, 2008

LeBron vs New York, February 4, 2009

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* – LeBron James photo credit: Nick Laham/Getty Images North America via Zimbio.com

Thanks to all of you for tuning into my second NBA Power Rankings! (Care to see the first? Here you go: preseason NBA Power Rankings.)

I hope all of you enjoyed the NBA’s opening week, I sure did. Some great teams were on display, with some poor starts and some surprising starts as well. These rankings are based on the team’s performance from the previous week. Don’t like my rankings? Love them? Be sure to comment, as I accept all forms of criticism. I have also shown how far the teams have jumped or dropped, with a plus or minus.

With all of this commotion going on, let me dissect the NBA’s opening week for all of you. I present to you, Devon’s Weekly NBA Power Rankings (Week 1)

Biggest Jump: Milwaukee (+8)

Biggest Drop: Detroit (-6)

The Starting 5

1. Boston Celtics (4-0)(+2)

The Celtics are really showing us how and why they won the 2008 NBA Finals. They are running circles around everyone they have played, especially in their second game, which was against the Charlotte Bobcats. This was a game in which the Celtics gave up a total of 59 points. Then, they spoil King James’ season/home opener. An incredible display of defense, teamwork, and communication early in the season for the C’s. For all you Bostonians, just hope health and age don’t slow down any of the vets, because if this holds up,  you may have reason to celebrate in June.

2. Orlando Magic (3-0)(+2)

The Magic are playing very fluid ball. But, they should. They’ve played the 76ers, Nets, then the Raptors being the most difficult team thus far. I love how Ryan Andersen is playing, as he is averaging 16 ppg. Where did this guy come from? Really? Oh yeah, they also have guys like Dwight Howard, Vince Carter, Rashard Lewis.etc. The Magic might not have had any real challenges yet, but I believe when they do, we will truly see how good this Magic team is.

3.Los Angeles Lakers (2-1)(-2)

Everyone was wrong. Everyone expected to see this Lakers team come out and run the tables on every team they played. Don’t get me wrong, LA is definitely a top contender, but let’s be realistic, they have weaknesses. It showed when the Lakers played Dallas, the game that resulted in DAL spanking LA. I believe I have found the weakness in this Lakers team: they do not have a true, solid backup power forward. So Dirk took advantage of Pau Gasol being out with injury, and played wonderfully (as usual). This resulted in the rest of the team doing the same, and in the end the Mavericks beat the Lakers in LA. The Lakers will be higher though when Pau’s back, don’t worry knuckleheads.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers (2-2)(-2)

The Cavs didn’t start the season the way they wanted to. A loss to the Celtics is understandable (even at home). I mean, it’ll take a couple of regular season games to incorporate a guy like Shaq into any team’s lineup. But then a loss to Toronto? C’mon Cleveland, I know you guys are better than that. After those first two losses, I began to see more of what I saw from last year’s 66-16 team, which was defense, good ball-movement, and more defense, as they shut the door on both Charlotte and Minnesota. But in this upcoming week, I’m expecting to see three straight W’s against a good Washington team, Chicago and New York. Let’s get a streak going Cleveland!

5. Denver Nuggets (3-0)(+1)

I’m very excited for all of you in Denver! This Nuggets team is looking good early! I know it’s only been two games, but from a team that hasn’t really done too much to improve in the off-season, they are showing loads of confidence. Carmelo Anthony is literally chasing the first Player of the Month award. He is averaging 35 ppg, and 7 rpg. Again, I know it’s early, but you can’t help but just love this team. Nice job beating two playoff contending teams (Utah and Portland) as well, that’s why I had to put you in my Starting 5.

The Bench

6. San Antonio Spurs (2-1)(-1)

The Spurs  got dropped to 6th man for a reason. They lost to Chicago? C’mon. A championship contending team needs to show more than that. They lost to a team led by a second year point guard. I’m sure Tony Parker has the veteranship and talent to stop Derrick Rose, but he didn’t.

But other than that, the Spurs are showing us more than last year. Much more. Richard Jefferson seems like a great fit, and McDyess is a great add as well. Let’s hope that San Antonio can keep a good mixture of their young guns and vets on the floor. Let’s also hope that Timmy and Antonio can both keep healthy.

7. Dallas Mavericks (2-1)(0)

Sean Marion seems like a good it in Dallas. He looked great in LA when Dallas beat up on the “Pau-less” Lakers. Dirk Nowitzki is playing MVP caliber ball, and I expect to see that for the rest of the year. There’s also been talk that Dirk has developed some kind of hook shot as well that is supposedly “unstoppable”. I’m looking forward to seeing that.

But back to the point, Dallas is playing good ball despite the loss to a good Washington team. Maybe they can make a move or two later on in the season to bring in that “X” factor that I believe will take Dallas from the Nuggets, Spurs conversation, to the Lakers, Celtics conversation. Ok, maybe overdoing it, but something to get them past San Antonio and possibly Denver. Maybe a Carlos Boozer? Stephen Jackson?

8. Washington Wizards (2-1)(+1)

People are not talking enough about the Wizards. They are a good-looking team. Gilbert is healthy again, and everyone forgets what he used to do when healthy. Remember the buzzer-beaters? The 40 point nights? No? Well I’m sure he’ll remind soon.

They also have the additions of Randy Foye, who replaced Caron Butler and gave Washington a good 14 points and 8 assists against New Jersey. They also have the versatile Antawn Jamison who can play the 3 or the 4 spot. They picked up a nice victory over Dallas, I’m looking forward to see them later on in the year, and how they will play against the Easts best, such as Cleveland on Tuesday. Great to see Washington turning things around.

9. Portland Trailblazers (2-2)(-1)

Even though Portland has lost two, you’d be crazy not to have them in the top 10. Have some respect, they lost to a very good Denver team, in a game where Carmelo poured 41 points all over them. But I do not accept a loss to the      ”Yao-less” Rockets.

The Blazers need to give much credit to Brandon Roy (who I expect to be in the middle of the MVP hunt) who sizzled with 42 against the Rockets. But besides the record, Portland should remain healthy all year, as they are one of the youngest overall teams in NBA, and have a talented roster which should continue improving. Should be fun to watch how Roy leads the Blazers at home against San Antonio on Friday.

10. Atlanta Hawks (2-1)(+1)

Yes, Atlanta is in the top 10. Why not? They started 2-1, they beat a good-looking Wizards squad, and their only loss is to the defending champs. Not bad. They also have an excellent front-court game. Josh Smith, Al Horford, Zaza Pachulia, and Marvin Williams are all good, long, and can hit shots from 10-15 feet. I’d say Atlanta has the best front-court in the whole league.

But what about their back-court? Well Bibby is a great PG, but his age should begin to show later in the year. This will affect the Hawks, but maybe Acie Law can come in and show us something. Then there’s Jamal Crawford who was a good pick up, I mean he can shoot 3’s, drive, play D here and there, what’s not to like?

Atlanta’s a good squad, but who will be their one guy to hit the game winner? Most will say Joe Johnson, but honestly, he isn’t a LeBron nor a Kobe.

11. Utah Jazz (1-1)(-1)

For these next three teams, the order really doesn’t make a difference. Mediocre starts, mediocre records. Nothing special. The one loss Utah has is against Nuggets. Then their one win is against the Clippers. Woo-hoo. Nothing special, but Deron Williams continues to show night in and night out that he is committed to this Utah Jazz team, even though others (Carlos Boozer) may not be as committed. Why not pull the trigger on Boozer? I mean, you’re not exactly a title contender, so why not?

12. Toronto Raptors (1-2)(+1)

Nice job guys! Beating Cleveland will look good on your record. But will it matter? Not really. It’ll matter more on Cleveland’s record more than yours. Then you lose to Memphis? C’mon. Then the loss to Orlando is understandable. Bosh is playing pretty well, while Hedo is holding his own (Still looked better in Orlando). Nothing much else to say about Toronto.

13. New Orleans Hornets (1-2)(-1)

Poor Chris Paul. He is going to be like last year’s Dwyane Wade…or worse. A great young talent, great vision, mentality, great everything! The one thing lacking, is the team.

Losing Tyson Chandler does the Hornets more worse than good. Emeka Okafor is not as mobile as Tyson (which will be key in pick & rolls), and Emeka is very susceptible to injuries. A loss to San Antonio, and Boston is understandable, and a win against Sacramento is no big deal. One thing Hornets fans can look at for a positive light is Fantasy Basketball! CP3 should be having a great, if not the best individual year!

14.Miami Heat (3-0)(+3)

The Heat are undefeated! Wow. I feel weird saying that. But yes, they are. Don’t be too shocked, as those victories came against the Knicks, Pacers and Bulls. They should have a loss or two by the next Power Rankings, as they head into the next week playing Denver once (which sounds like a good game, D-Wade vs Melo) and playing the Wizards twice. They just might lose each of those games, but don’t count on it as the “Mini-MJ” (Dwyane Wade) probably won’t let that happen. Another Fantasy Basketballer’s dream is in Dwyane Wade this year.

15. Phoenix Suns (3-0)(0)

The Suns are having a good start as they are undefeated. They haven’t faced any serious teams yet (played Clippers, T-Wolves, and Warriors), but they blew out the Clips by 20+ which is not bad at all. Leandro Barbosa is looking great, and Steve Nash isn’t really letting his age show either. Amar’e Stoudamire and his new specs don’t look bad either.

Could I have been wrong? Will Phoenix make a playoff surge? Will they pass Utah and Portland? OH NO!? Wait…I think I’m right, they probably won’t get past those two, but could possibly have a playoff spot in their future.

16.Houston Rockets (2-1)(+3)

Houston we have lift off. Well not really, but the victory against Portland might help. They may have let Brandon Roy drop 42 on them, but they contained him enough to get the W. If there is any team in the league that I am interested in seeing later, it’s Houston. I’m trying to figure out where they will end up, because nothing about them sticks out, but nothing is too bad either. We might even see Ariza possibly blossom into a star…maybe.

17. Philadelphia 76ers (2-1)(+1)

I dubbed them the most basic team in the A. I still stand by that. I mean, look at their lineup. Anyways, pretty fair start. A loss to Orlando is understandable, and nice job on picking up a victory against Milwaukee, and then heading out to Madison Square and taking out the Knicks as Al Harrington dropped 42 points. I can see something for this team in the future, but not now.

18. Chicago Bulls (1-2)(-4)

The Bulls aren’t doing that bad, they beat the Spurs which is an incredible feat for being the young team they are. Then they get mauled by the Celtics, which is acceptable, and then lose to Miami. The Miami loss in my mind is key because of the fact that those two just might end up fighting over a possible playoff start in the end. Might.

19. Oklahoma City Thunder (2-1)(+3)

The Thunder are doing well also. They beat up on the Kings for their season opener, then beat a new-look Pistons squad. Kevin Durant is still trying to lead his team to a playoff spot, while learning a thing or two himself. James Harden is trying to fit in with his new NBA team (which he will do perfectly fine), and the Thunder’s mascot is still awesome! Keep it rolling Thunder!

20. Milwaukee Bucks (1-1)(+8)

I’m really liking Brandon Jennings. He’s showing me that he can be a real “freak” on offense, and I mean that in the best way possible! The Bucks aren’t going anywhere this year, but I just can’t help but talk about Jennings. He will definitely be a good player in the near future. Oh, and the Bucks beat Detroit, but lost to the 76ers. Whatever.

The Reserves

21. Minnesota Timberwolves (1-2)(+3)

The T-Wolves aren’t doing too bad, I just expected to see a little more (like win against Phoenix). But they still are progressing. I really am looking forward to watching them in the future, especially when Ricky Rubio is there. Oops…I got too ahead of myself.

22. Detroit Pistons (1-2)(-6)

Not only is Motown’s economy suffering, but the basketball team is as well. Not that I expected the additions of Charlie and Ben to do a whole lot, but the Pistons are losing to some pretty bad teams. Their first win was at Memphis  (Woo-hoo!), and then they lost at home against the rising Thunder and the Brandon Jennings-led Bucks. Hopefully Rip Hamilton becomes fully healthy, so things will turn around for Detroit, but if not..it could get ugly…er. (Want more Detroit Basketball? Take a look at Boris’ first article: Detroit Pistons Weekly Watch)

23. Charlotte Bobcats (1-2)(-2)

Disgusting. That’s all I have to say..about the game against Boston. You know, the one where they put up a total of 59 points? Anyways, a loss to Boston and Cleveland I can understand. Then a victory against New York is solid. A positive to look at is that they still have Tyson Chandler, whom they stole from New Orleans.

24. Indiana Pacers (0-2)(-4)

The Pacers are a work in progress, it’s as simple as that. Danny Granger will most likely make the All-Star team, Tyler Hansborough has a shot at 2nd Team All-Rookie, and that’s that. They reasonably lost to Atlanta, and lost to the Heat (which they possibly could’ve won). Probably going to get spanked when they play Denver on Wednesday.

25. Los Angeles Clippers (0-4)(-2)

Poor Clips. Actually poor Blake Griffin. He was injured like, the day before his debut. Sucks man. The Clips lost to the Lakers, (ok), Phoenix (ok), Utah (ok), Dallas (ok). Damn David Stern, give these guys a break. Should have a shot at winning against the T-Wolves.

26. Memphis Grizzlies (1-2)(-1)

Lost to Detroit (could’ve won), and lost to Denver (had little chance). But they beat Toronto at least, good going Memphis. A.I. gets his debut on Monday (11/22) supposedly, looking forward to it. But not expecting a playoff spot. Sorry Thabeet and Mayo.

27. New Jersey Nets (0-3)(-1)

Sorry Jay-Z. Actually, I’m sorry for the whole New York/New Jersey area. Nothing really going on over there. The Nets lost to Minnesota, Orlando, and Washington. Two out those three they were unavoidable, but they had a shot at Minnesota. But hey, chant what I told the Knicks fans to chant, “2010, 2010, 2010!”

28. Golden State Warriors (0-2)(-1)

The Warriors are a confusing bunch. Does Stephen Jackson want to stay, or not? Is Monta Ellis really happy playing with Stephen Curry? What is Don Nelson doing over there still? Anyways, they lost to Houston, and Phoenix. This year should be a good year for Curry to get the basics down…if he’s not traded. Who isn’t on the trade block in Golden State?

29. New York Knicks (0-3)(0)

They lost to Miami, Charlotte and Philadelphia. Who cares anyways, the Knicks aren’t planning on anything this year anyways.

“2010, 2010 2010!”

30. Sacramento Kings (0-3)(0)

Congrats, if this were a draft, you’d get the first pick. But it’s not, so forget about it. Kevin Martin is pulling the load, while Tyreke Evans is barely off of it. I’m just waiting for Evans to hop off of the load, and show us something. The Kings lost to the Thunder by 23, then the Hornets by 5, and the Spurs by 9. Sacramento should use this season to let Evans familiarize himself with the NBA, other than that. Adios!

Liked the rankings? Yes? No? Let me know…comments below.

Tune in next Monday for my next NBA Power Rankings (Week 2)

Contact Devon:

-Devonnba4193@aol.com

-Twitter.com/devonmsf

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* – Photo Credit: AP Photos/ Charles Krupa

Cleveland Cavaliers fans were excited on this Halloween Night to see Delonte West walk out of the locker room and onto the court with his team — for the first time this season.

Fans, dressed up as Ghosts, Ghouls, Goblins, Mummies, Cartoon Characters, Cavs Players, and Witches, all cheered as he did his shoot-around.

Those cheers spoke volumes to the Cavalier Organization, to Delonte West, and to his teammates. The cheers let them all know that Cavs fans gladly welcome the troubled West back into the fold.

And, he seemed to be in good spirits, focused on basketball, and ready to play the game. Also, he helped extend the Cavs winning streak to two, and improve their overall record to 2-2, with a 90-79 win over the Bobcats.

West coming off the bench in his first appearance of the season, received thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the crowd. He had a very good game, playing 24 minutes, scoring 13 points, and getting a pair of rebounds and assists.

Mo Williams lead the team in scoring with 24 points, LeBron James had 14 points, Anthony Parker had 13 points, Varejao scored 6 points, Shaquille O’neal had 8 points, Zydrunas Ilgauskas had 10 points, and J.J. Hickson added 2 points.

Boston is off to a great start.

Not that it wasn’t expected, but who knew that the Celts would hold the Charlotte Bobcats to a total of 59 points in the C’s home opener. This came right after the Celtics spoiled the Cavaliers season and home opener as well. Then last night the Celtics took down the young Bulls squad 118-90, barely breaking a sweat.

It’s scary how well this C’s team is doing.

People have been talking about how LA has brought in Ron Artest, and how Cleveland should be fueled up on enough Diesel power to win a ring this year, but most people do not talk as much about this Celtics team, whose main acquisition was Rasheed Wallace. Without a doubt, this wasn’t as big as a Shaq or Vince Carter deal.

Even though I say this,  I have one question.

Are the Celtics the best team in the NBA?

Here is a good point in support that they may be: the C’s are blowing out their opponents. They are averaging 101.7 PPG and giving their opponents an average of 79.3 PPG, a difference of 20+ points.

To me, this is staggering, because supposedly the Celtics were supposed to have a slow/rocky start. Glen Davis would be out, KG has not been on the court long enough to shake his rust off, and Doc still needed to find a way to incorporate his new additions:

• PF Shelden Williams
• PF Rasheed Wallace
• PG Marquis Daniels

No doubt, the Celts are showing us they are still a force to be reckoned with, but let’s take an in-depth look.

Cavaliers 10/27

The season opener.

Cavs fans and Celtics fans alike were waiting for this one. Heck, all NBA fans were, and it showed as TNT has it’s largest NBA audience in their history of showing the game. But back to the point.

The Cavs were coming in with all the confidence in the world, as the media had been feeding the world that the Cavs are the beasts of the east. But that night, Boston had other thoughts.

The Celtics did not start off the way they had hoped, as the Cavs seemed to be running the tables early, and finished the first quarter with a 21-28 lead over Boston. Then, it all went downhill.

Boston finished the half well, scoring 31 points in the second quarter and only allowing Cleveland a meek 17 points.

This proved to be the decider, as the Celts held off Cleveland in the final two quarters  by going blow for blow.

Final: BOS- 95 CLE-89

-Paul Pierce finished 23 points, and 11 rebounds

-Kevin Garnett added 13, 10 rebounds and 3 blocks

-Ray Allen put in 16, 2 rebounds and 3 steals and assists

and let’s not forget about the new face..

-Rasheed Wallace had 12 points, 3 rebounds and 2 blocks off the bench

A great boost of confidence for Boston, as they hold off the Cavs, even though having allowed LeBron to drop 38.

Bobcats 10/29

Time for the C’s home opener, and lucky for them they faced a non-playoff Bobcats team (insert NBA preseason Power ranking link)

Not really much to say about this one other than the fact that it was a damn embarrassment for the Bobcats.

The Celtics ran circles around Charlotte in nearly every aspect.

Defensively the C’s allowed Gerald Wallace, whom is Charlotte’s number one option, a team high 10 points. 10 POINTS!? Are you serious? Cmon Larry Brown, I think you can run your squad better than that!

Then the Bobcats were shooting up bricks from three, as they were 0-10 from the three point line. I’m no genius at math, but I believe that is 0%.

Then the Bobcats FG% was 31%. Absolutely disgusting! But don’t worry Charlotte, not your fault. The Celtics are just an amazingly good defensive team.

Let’s take a look at the score quarter by quarter:

Q1- Boston -22 Charlotte- 12

Q2- Boston -20 Charlotte- 18

(That is the closest Charlotte gets)

Q3- Boston -25 Charlotte- 10

(OUCH!)

Q4- Boston -25 Charlotte- 18

Poor Charlotte, but hey you tried right?

Final: BOS-92 CHA-59 (ew)

-KG had 10, Pierce had 16, Ray had 18

Chicago 10/30

A rematch of last year’s stunning first round playoff series.

But it wasn’t anything like last year..at all.

This was purely an offensive showcase for Boston. Chicago didn’t play badly either, even thought they lost. But you have to give this Bulls team credit, especially considering their best player is a second year player.

The game was intriguing in the beginning, as the Bulls were able to hang in there, as they ended the first quarter 21-17.

But from then  Boston poured it on, dropping 29 in the second quarter. The third was Paul Pierces quarter, as he dropped 20 of his 22 in the third.

Simply amazing!

In total, the C’s put  38 in the third,  and then the Boston  bench assisted in putting up 30 in the fourth.

Defensively, Boston did a nice job on the perimeter, as they help Chicago to 13% from downtown.

Not the showcase from last year, but was a good game for those of us who didn’t have anything to do on Friday night.

Final: BOS – 118 CHI – 90

-Paul Pierce put in 22 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals

-Allen dropped 20, and dished out 3 assists

-KG gave 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal

-Eddie House put in 22 off the bench.

Conclusively, Boston is playing great ball, and should continue that way, as their upcoming games are rather easy.

11/1 – New Orleans at Boston

11/3 – Boston at Philadelphia

11/4 – Boston at Minnesota

In the end, Boston has a complete team. They have leadership, veteran skills, three point shooting, post play, athleticism…everything!

Next time you call Cleveland or Orlando the beast of the east, don’t forget the 2008 NBA Champions, whom in my mind, have simply gotten better!

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* – Kevin Garnett photo credit: Getty Images

After two straight loses to the Boston Celtics (in Cleveland’s long awaited and much anticipated home opener), then suffering a loss on the road to the Toronto Raptors, nervous Cavs fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief!

In what has been dubbed the Cleveland “Season of Expectations,” the Cavaliers finally got their first win of the season. In an almost “must win” game (in the eyes of many fans), the Cavs beat the Toronto Raptors 104-87, and five Cleveland players scored in double digits.

The NBA’s reigning MVP, Lebron James (who scored 38 points in the home opener, and had a triple double in the team’s first road game) scored 24 points, had nine rebounds and five assists.

Mo Williams contributed 20 points, Zydrunas Ilgauskas had 15 points, Daniel Gibson scored 14 points (going 4-8 in 3 ball attempts) and Anderson Varejao added 13 points.

It is obvious the the Cavs team chemistry is improving. In this game, they displayed great ball movement, the team went 10 of 18 on 3-ball attempts, and both Williams and James had 6 assists.

And, although he is showing encouraging by practicing and traveling with the team–Delonte West still did not play.

I want you to play the song below while reading this post. Try, as best you can, to not be distracted by the vicious, piercing irony of the chorus as it relates to the sports teams of Cleveland.

I know, it’s not going to be easy…especially after the events of last night rubbed even more salt into the (eternally?) tragically open wounds of an entire city’s fan base.

On the same that night that the last two Cy Young Award winners — both of whom were Indians when they won it — faced off in Game 1 of the 2009 World Series, the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James dropped to 0-2.

You might think, well hey, at least Cleveland fans have the Browns game to look forward to this Sunday!

And this sentiment, of course, would be met either with hearty laughter or plaintive cries, all depending on one’s perspective, mood, and current level of sanity.

No, ladies and gentleman, sports in the city of Cleveland most certainly do not rock. Last night was simply further confirmation of this ever deepening and depressing truism.

But don’t take it from me. Scan the Cleveland sports blogosphere. It’s hard to wait for next year when you can barely make it from day to day this year.

Cavs/Raptors Reaction: Biff Goes Boom Again on Murder Mike — (Cleveland Frowns)

I’m beside myself about tonight’s Cavaliers loss in Toronto. In a town where Jhonny Peralta has been the starting shortstop for the better part of a decade and Brian Robiskie is a second round pick, it’s too much to bear yet another coach who’s too dumb to see what’s apparent to even the most casual of fans.

Tribe Fans Hide Your Eyes: D-Day is Here — (Waiting For Next Year)

Most Indians fans I know refuse to watch one second of it. I for one, will be glued to the TV. Will it make me sick? Absolutely. Seeing two former Indian aces face off against one another, knowing that just one year ago, they were in the same rotation in our city, is nausiating.

Note: to be fair, this post by WFNY does go onto say that the departures of C.C. and Cliff Lee were somewhat inevitable and that you can’t hold the feet of Indians’ management to the fire for too long as punishment.

Still, the fact remains, what other fan base has had to watch that?

Only in Cleveland.

Time-honored tradition of rooting against teams has arrived for Browns fans — (No Logo Needed)

After Mangini’s press conference on Monday where he stated he’s sticking with Derek Anderson and his 40.6 quarterback rating the Voice of Reason is officially throwing in the towel.  I’m done, stop the fight.  Bring out Zastudil and let him punt my fandom (and this season) out at the 5-yard line.

Cleveland Browns are how bad? — (Starting Blocks)

The Cleveland Browns are probably worse than their 1-6 record indicates.

In the Browns’ last two games, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers have combined for 1,003 yards gained against the Browns porous defense.

The Browns’ inept offense has totaled 336 yards in the two games.

The Cleveland Browns have played 907 games, including playoffs, since they began as a franchise in the All-America Football Conference in 1946.

Never has the team had a worse two-game stretch in yardage differential. Pitrtsburgh and Green Bay outgained the Browns by a combined 667 yards.

For some reason the spelling error in this excerpt just seems appropriate. Hence, I left it. Why not? It fits the motif.

Meet the Snworb — (The Kardiac Kid)

The Browns’ lethargic, pathetic performance last week against the Packers summed up their last 10 years of futility. Fans and pundits call for the heads of Lerner, Kokinis, and Mangini, or argue that we should boycott the Browns. We could fire Mangini and Kokinis, but it would begin another rebuilding process. Lerner could sell the team, but who’s to say the new owner would be any better? And why should Browns fans boycott a team they love?

None of these solutions get us any closer to what Clevelanders really want: a competitive professional football team.

Cleveland fought hard for the Browns.

The new Browns franchise is unacceptable.

The City of Cleveland should take the name, colors, logos and legacy of the Cleveland Browns away from this franchise*.

I think that’s enough of the excerpting.

Point taken, right?

As far as the Indians are concerned, the meeting of C.C. and Cliff Lee was more the malevolence of circumstance than anything else. Yes, it sucks for Indians fans that the team couldn’t keep one or both of them, but the economics of Major League Baseball dictated their departure.

You see, C.C. ends up on the Yankees and Cliff Lee ends up on the Phillies…yet the Indians, nor any other club, ever once had a chance to bid on Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Chase Utley, or Ryan Howard. Notice the glaring difference? (Note: this is not an original thought. I read it somewhere and cannot remember where to link back.)

As Rasheed Wallace once brilliantly said in a post-game interview: “it is what is is, and it do what it do.”

As far as the Cavs are concerned, I’m on record as saying that the Shaq experiment is a bad one. I just don’t see it working. Shaq of ten or even five years ago? Sure, it’s a good move. Rotund, immobile, uninspired Shaq of today?

Hell no.

I still have faith that LeBron can single-handedly make some sweet lemonade out of the lemons surrounding him, but I just really don’t see this team as being closer to an NBA championship this year than they were last year.

Time will tell, but the Cavs could not have had a more inauspicious start. to the season

And then there are the Browns.

Oh the Browns.

What is there really to say? As a commenter pointed out in the Starting Blocks post I linked to above, “somebody”predicted dire consequences if Eric Mangini were hired. We’re stuck with the current situation right now, so I’m trying to make the best of it, but games like last Sunday really make it difficult.

At the end of the day, the only thing that Cleveland sports fans really have to get them through such dire (life)times is eachother. And here, here, and here you go for the evidence.

When my mom looked at these pictures, her first comment was, “Wow, these all people all just go there to get drunk, don’t they?”

Yes, I suppose technically that is true in most cases. But look around the sports landscape at what these people are forced to cheer for. They go there and to cope.

To survive.

The lyrics to the song may say that “Cleveland rocks,” but unfortunately the only thing that ever gets rocked are the hopes, dreams, and wishes of Cleveland sports fans.

Game after game.

Year after frustrating year.

So they wait. And in the meantime they find solace at places like the Great Lakes Brewery, with tools like 8-person beer bongs, and with coolers full of Jello shots.

And I don’t think anyone can really blame them.

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* – Browns fan photo credit: daniel1212 at PhotoBucket

* – Indians fans photo credit: Clemson Baseball Girl

The following tweet by our friend Scott from Waiting For Next Year perfectly summed up my thoughts regarding the Josh Cribbs trade rumors floating around right now:

As little underlying support there is, these Josh Cribbs rumors are not fun

He is exactly right.

Who knows how legitimate the Cribbs-to-Miami or Cribbs-to-whomever talk is, but there is nothing fun or exciting at all about the Browns’ clear fan favorite being mentioned in the same sentence as the word “trade.”

All the rumors about Cribbs got me to thinking: is he the second most untradable sports figure in Cleveland?

(I think we all know who the first is.)

Let’s think about it for a second.

Is there anyone on the Cavs right now other than LeBron that Cleveland fans have a really strong connection to? I would suspect that Big Z is in that category, but considering his age and contract, I’m not sure Cavs fans would be too up in arms if there was a parting of the ways soon.

Shaq, despite his profile and the excitement surrounding his arrival, has yet to play a regular season game for the Cavs. There has been no time for a connection to develop.

Do you see anyone else on the Cavs roster with 1/10th the fan love of Josh Cribbs? I don’t.

Let’s then move on to the Indians where, unfortunately for Indians fans, two fan favorites have already been dealt away over the past two years: C.C. Sabathia and Cliff Lee. I would definitely have placed Sabathia right there with Cribbs, if not above.

Who else on the Indians roster might qualify in Cribbs’ class?

Fausto Carmona and Travis Hafner were on their way a few years ago, but then decided to suck and have fallen out of favor. The only person who could legitimately enter the conversation is Grady Sizemore.

Sizemore is a very, very good player, but for years I have felt that he was somewhat overrated.

Don’t get me wrong: he’s among the top 25-30 players in baseball, especially when you factor in his tremendous defensive ability. I just don’t consider him among the elite of the elite as some people do.

When it comes to fan love, however, Sizemore does pretty well for himself.

Guys like Grady because he’s a 30-30 threat who can help their fantasy team and has been the one consistent offensive force on the Indians’ revolving door of a lineup over the past few years. And the ladies like him because, well…I guess because he has dimples, or something? (Money, you idiot…it’s the money! And the shirts…)

And then we get to the Browns, where talented former 1st round picks like Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards have recently been traded away without much fan consternation.

The only player whose popularity could approach Cribbs’ is that of Brady Quinn. However, considering Quinn’s underwhelming performances when given an opportunity, it’s not like the majority of Cleveland fans honestly feel like they have a prettier version of Bernie Kosar sitting on the bench right now.

In fact, while there is a subset of Browns fans who would be pissed and upset if Quinn got traded, there is no such subset of fans who would be pissed and upset to see Cribbs go.

ALL Browns fans would be devastated to see Josh Cribbs gone. ALL OF THEM.

Every single one.

If you can find me a single Browns fan who would be even remotely excited about the loss of Josh Cribbs, I will grow a mustache, name it Zastudil, and interview it on a podcast.

Seriously.

For all of the ill will that Eric Mangini and George Kokinis have generated since their arrival, it would pale in comparison to the fan backlash that would result from trading Joshua Cribbs for anything less than a franchise QB or an already established superstar defensive player.

Cribbs is the one guy who gives us all hope every time he touches the ball. He has been the heart and soul of the organization since he became a star in 2007. He has continued to play hard this year despite little hope of team success and little progress on a contract extension that was promised to him.

There is not much good about the Cleveland Browns right now, but whatever ounce of good exists is manifested almost entirely in the play of Josh Cribbs.

You can get away with trading malcontents like Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards. Browns fans understand that. And if you’re going to be cheap, stupid-line-in-the-sand hardasses about Cribbs’ contract, and not pay the guy what he deserves, then I hope the Browns do trade him…for Cribbs’ own sake.

Josh Cribbs deserves to play for an organization that understands and respects his value to the team, fans, and city. Mangini and Kokinis just need to realize that said organization needs to be Cleveland, with no excuses.

I don’t care if he’s “just a special teams player.” Watch the damn games, watch the effort, watch his teammates respond to him, assess the value of what you’d have to pay him for the myriad tangible and intangible positives he brings, and watch the fans stay interested in the miserable overall product because of this exciting player with the never-say-die attitude and never-quit motor.

Josh Cribbs is a special player. Period.

I’m not saying pay him like a #1 WR or a top-flight defensive lineman or anything like that. Just pay the guy what he deserves for his value on the field and his value to the organization, with his value to the fans being a major part of that.

Pay him, and don’t trade him.

I’m coming to Cleveland next weekend for the Packers game. If Josh Cribbs isn’t there too, I am not going to be happy. Not one bit. I’ve never booed my own team at home — and I’d never boo the players so long as they’re giving effort — but I’d boo Eric Mangini as hard and as loud as I possibly could if Cribbs is not around.

And something tells me the other 73,200 people at Cleveland Browns stadium would join me.

Luckily, it sounds like the Cribbs rumors are just that: rumors. And from everything I’ve read, the Browns are not actively shopping Cribbs. They are merely listening to offers considering Cribbs’ desire for a new contract.

Fine. I understand that…so long as it results in an amicable resolution in which Cribbs gets a new contract and we all have some security that our favorite player will be around for a while.

Update: Cribbs’ agent thinks that the Browns are being unfair by not trading him or redoing his contract.

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* – Grady Sizemore photo credit: Luello.com

* – Joshua Cribbs photo credit: AP Photo/Keith Srakocic

Although the Cavs continued their 3-0 winning streak, and beat the Olympiacos 111-94, the loss didn’t dampen the passionate spirit of the Greek fans.

Many sang, jumped up and down, waved banners, and danced in their seats–or in the Main Concourse of the Arena. And most were dressed in jackets and T-Shirts which displayed their native flag, while their Olympiakos team wore red and white striped Jerseys, which resembled NBA Referee uniforms.

Several fans said that they travel right along with their team, and proclaimed themselves as the best all around sports fans in the world. However, both Greek and Cavs fans alike were dazzled and entertained by what has been dubbed in NBA circles as the Shaq and Lebron show–and their monstrous dunk performance.

Also, seven Cavs scored in double digits. James played 22 minutes (scoring 12 points), Varejao played 22 minutes (13 pts.), Parker 24 minutes (10 pts.), O’Neal 21 minutes(12pts.), Gibson (starting for Mo Williams, who was out with a groin injury) played 29 minutes (15 pts.), Karl 23 minutes (10 pts.), and Hickson played 14 minutes (13 pts).

Cavs Play-By-Play Announcer Fred McLeod, standing in for Joe Tait on WTAM 1100 AM, said that the near capacity crowd was a rarity for a Bobcat game.       

Although the Cavs were a little shorthanded, with only 15 players dressed in uniform, 6 Cavs scored in double digits. Tonight was Daniel “Boobie” Gibson’s night, as he found his shot and scored 14 points, in 21 minutes. LeBron scored 11 points (17 mins), Hickson 15 points (29 mins), Shaq 12 points (18 mins), Parker 11 points (23 mins), and Mo Williams added 12 points (22mins).    

Forward JJ Hickson got his chance to start, replacing the injured Anderson Varejao (back spasms), and he shined once again. The other starters accompanying him were: James, O’Neal, M. Williams, and Parker. While two players didn’t travel with the team–Jamario Moon (wisdom teeth extraction ), and Delonte West (personal reasons); Danny Green (glute contusion) and Leon Powe (knee surgery) were present in street clothes.   

Other Cavs who contributed to the win were: Ilgauskas scoring 9 points (10 mins), Jackson scoring 8 points (25 mins), Karl with  6 points (22 mins), Barrett scoring 4 points( 14 mins), Watkins playing 1 minute (no points), and Jawad Williams playing 23 minutes (no points).

None were disappointed, as they caught a preview of the new Cavs Opening, broadcast in High Definition on the Q-Tube Jumbatron. And fans danced and sang along as they listened to Jay Z’s “D.O.A. (Death Of Autotune)” Rap, which the Cavs adopted as their new 2009-2010 Theme Song.  

James scored 15 points (5 of 7), during his 14 minutes of playing time. And Shaq added 6 points, made 3 rebounds, and had 1 block in his 15 minutes. Along with the Dynamic Duo, the other three Starters were: Anthony Parker, Mo Williams, and Anderson Varejao.

The Second Squad consisted of: JJ Hickson, Daniel Gibson, Jamario Moon, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and Rookie Danny Green. And others Cavs who rounded out the Third Squad were: Darnell Jackson, Coby Karl, Aundre Barrett, Rob Kurz, Rookie Luke Nevill, Jawad Williams, and Rookie Russell Robinson.

Nevermind the fact that this season may be one of the most anticipated in a LONG time. I mean come on, look at what is at stake; the whole 2010 free agent class.

Well anyways, maybe I can help some of your NBA addictions.

Here is a really good article I found on LeBron James…well, on LeBron James’ tattoos.

Yes, his tattoos. You’d be suprised at what this guy has on his 270 lb. body.

Check it out, courtesy of my friends at Nikelebron.net: