Boston (Strong) Red Sox

In the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing, the Boston Red Sox has pretty much dedicated the rest of the season towards the city. Something that David Ortiz effectively spoke of their first home game since the incident.



Now that they sealed their third World Series in the last 10 years, they reaffirm that dedication in something that they have released in their local papers.

The Boston Marathon

There was a notion of shock when I heard about the blast that took place on the Boston Marathon. Stunning. Shocking. Jaw-dropping, even. I haven't even watched the clips yet and it's freaking me out.

Repercussions have been felt far and wide in the sports world. Security protocol has been reviewed for all sports events in different facilities. The London Marathon will go on as scheduled, though.

The Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League, who were to host the Senators that night, postponed their match.

The NBA has decided to cancel the Celtics-Pacers match altogether, a first in the history of the NBA since going on the 82-game schedule. It is important to note that there is no seeding implications with both teams, as Celtics are fated to face the Knicks, while the Pacers are locked in as the 3rd seed.

The Boston Red Sox, as always on Patriot Day, schedule their game on this day earlier than normal, so the explosion took place after the conclusion of their 3-2 win over Tampa. They were on the way to the airport, as they were to fly to Cleveland that night for their series with former Red Sox manager Terry Francona and the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field.

Hope those perpetrated this dastardly act will be dealt with, accordingly.

TWTWTNBA: The Atlantic Division All-Star Roster Pool

All-Star Voting for the Starters ended on Sunday, with the final ballot numbers to be released on Thursday in TNT at Madison Square Garden (Friday for those in the Motherland). Heat vs Knicks being the reason why Ernie and his crew will be in Broadway instead of their cushy Atlanta studios. A week after that, the All-Star Reserves are to be named.

Now, if the Atlantic Division were to set up an All-Star team of their own, this would be their logical pool of candidates:

Boston Celtics - Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett

New Jersey Nets - Devin Harris, Brook Lopez

New York Knicks - Raymond Felton, Wilson Chandler, Amar'e Stoudemire, Danilo Gallinari

Philadelphia 76rs - Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand, Jrue Holiday

Toronto Raptors - Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani, DeMar DeRozan

Based from this, I believe this would be their roster composition.

Coach: Doc Rivers - All about Ubuntu.

Starters:

Guard: Rajon Rondo - The guy can serve it up to anyone, anywhere.

Guard: Ray Allen - As what Bill Simmons has been pointing out, he's turned into Reggie Miller 2.0

Forward: Paul Pierce - He has said he's the best player in the world. And he has his followers (you know who you are) who will back up that statement.

Forward: Kevin Garnett - Face it, Boston's title chances lie in with his health.

Center: Amar'e Stoudemire - MVP Candidate. The Spotlight is on him in Broadway, and has met the challenge of bringing the Knicks back to respectability.

Reserves:

Guard: Raymond Felton - Has become adept in running the SSOL. He is definitely not Steve Nash, but he has definitely arrived as a playmaker.

Guard: Devin Harris - Now free from the burden of the Melo-drama (thanks to Mutant Russian billionaire owner), he can do what he always does, score and handle the ball.

Center: Andrea Bargnani - Toronto's best offensive weapon

Forward: Wilson Chandler - Dutifully handling what the Matrix's role was in the SSOL in Phoenix, albeit at a smaller extent, numbers-wise. (Shawn Marion was fantasy gold in the heyday of the SSOL in the middle 00's)

Guard: DeMar DeRozan - Definite candidate for the Most Improved Player race. Solid #2 option for what was supposed to be a moribund Raptors franchise (and probably still would be if not for the state of the Cavs and the Wizards).

Center: Brook Lopez - One of the better young bigs in the league. If he can raise his disappointing rebounding numbers, he'll be taken a little more seriously than what he is right now.

Guard: Jrue Holiday - I thought that he showed the most marked improvement in Philly.

Inactive Roster:

Forward: Andre Iguodala - The most talented player on the Philly roster. He's my biggest omission to this squad.

Guard: Jose Calderon - Had to leave him off because of the PG's ahead of him.

Forward: Elton Brand - He'll probably never ever live up to the contract the Sixers gave him, but definitely a bounce-back season for him.

TWTWTNBA: Eastern Conference Christmas / New Year Wish List

It's the end of 2010 and we already know the good, the bad and probably the ugly in the current 2010 season. So, it is appropriate to compose the not-so-weekly-post that I do. The center of conversation would be what Santa Stern would give to the teams in theory for Christmas? Or what would their New Year's resolution would be? Here's a small sample size.

Atlantic

Boston - Cloning the Phoenix medical staff, because the O'Neals, Kendrick, Delonte and Rajon need it. Ditto for the vets to keep them fresh. Also for their hunger to avenge their loss to the Lakers overwhelm the possible burnout this ridiculous start may have at a later point in the season. Also Big Baby getting 6th Man of the Year consideration. (Update: And then this happened to KG.)

New York - Carmelo Anthony, but at the same time, not having to give up the whole damn farm in return.

New Jersey - see New York. (In relation to this: Wouldn't it be an insult to Devin Harris and Brook Lopez that Melo wants an additional star added on the team if he is to go to Brooklyn eventually?)

Philadelphia - For them to finally figure out what they can do with Andre Iguodala.

Toronto - To determine what is their true direction. They have a lot of undesirable parts in general.

Central

Cleveland - Proper closure with regards to Lebron. And for them figure out their malaise ever since Lebron made his return to Cleveland (1-14 record).

Chicago - A shooting guard that would be fine with being a bit player / role player (this means he will not be named J.R. Smith) . Also for Derrick Rose to get MVP recognition.

Detroit - For a new owner to come in and figure out what really needs to be done to this franchise, the first thing being finding new homes for Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince.

Indiana - Honestly, for them to figure out what they ought to be really doing. I just cannot put a pulse on what they should actually be doing.

Milwaukee - First, for Brandon Jennings to get well soon. Second, for them to share the ball more. And also to avoid the Scott Skiles burnout that seems to be inevtiable.

Southeast

Atlanta - For Josh Smith to finally make it to the All-Star Game. Also, for Jamal Crawford to get paid but not overpaid.

Charlotte - To just show some more effort, because Larry Brown grew tiresome of their lackadaisical nature.

Miami - For Lebron to just shut up and let his play do the talkin'. Unless, he decides to go on a heel turn like what we originally envisioned for Tiger Woods. Also, for someone to emerge from the amalgamation of Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Joel Anthony and Erick Dampier and quite simply, man up.

Orlando - For their new pieces to figure out their roles accordingly. Also a big man, unless Ryan Anderson becomes a modest facsimile of Memo Okur.

Washington - For Rashard Lewis to earn his ridiculous paycheck by becoming what he ought to become given that bloated contract of his. Also, John Wall to convince Flip Saunders that his concerns are a tad bit overrated.

The East on a Tier - An Alternative Look at the Eastern Conference

You have seen the Atlantic, Southeast & Central Divisions as previewed by someone. Time to put in my two cents on the picture.

1st Tier: The Big Threes

Boston Celtics

What I like: Having a chip on their shoulders. Because quite simply, all the attention in South Beach just set off a rejuvenation of Beantown. In addition, the continued evolution of Rajon Rondo into the post-PGA Tour leader. Their bench depth, by the way, rivals Orlando's.

What I do not like: Perk being unavailable until post-All Star Break, because again, they never lost with the Pierce-KG-Ray-Rajon-Perk starting 5 in the postseason. Looks like the O'Neals will have to do until then.

The one key factor: the Celtics medical staff. I hope they can be a creditable facsimile of Phoenix, because the health of their veterans will dictate how far they can go.

Miami Heat

What I like: Having three superstars team up like this will be something worth paying attention to.

What I do not like: How they are really dependent on the glue guys. Already a bad sign with Mike Miller being out until next year.

The one key factor: Lebron. It's all up to him. He needs to prove himself and show it.

2nd Tier: Armed to the Teeth

Orlando Magic

What I like: Their depth comes in very handy, as they can go big or small.

What I do not like: Rashard Lewis not stepping up to the value of his contract. Having to rely on Vince Carter. PG drop-off after Jameer Nelson

The one key factor: Will Dwight mature enough? Better yet, will the Olajuwon apprenticeship pay off?

Chicago Bulls

What I like: The development of Derrick Rose and the fiery yet possibly annoying Joakim Noah.

What I do not like: Their chase of Carmelo Anthony, because there really is not a fit for him with the roster as currently constituted. Carlos Boozer's injury history.

The one key factor: Tom Thibodeaux. A definite upgrade over Vinny Del Negro in coaching acumen, but the players liked Vinny.

3rd Tier: Good, but not THAT Good

Atlanta Hawks

What I like: They're high-flying. They're exciting. The Philips Arena is said to be called the "Highlight Factory".

What I do not like: That ridiculous contract of Joe Johnson. Still lacking size on the bench save for Zaza Pachulia.

The one key factor: Jamal Crawford is in a contract year. And is still seeking an extension. He could make or break them.

Milwaukee Bucks

What I like: The #FearTheDeer concept. Squad 6. Brandon Jennings.

What I do not like: The trend of Scott Skiles burning people out the next season. Lack of a veteran PG to guide Jennings (like how Luke Ridnour played last year). Balancing minutes with the swing wings (Delfino, Maggette, Salmons, Mbah a Moute, Ilyasova).

The one key factor: Andrew Bogut being back in form after that horrific injury. Huge drop-off, although the Bucks made moves to shore it up. but still...

Charlotte Bobcats

What I like: C & C (Music) Factory in Gerald "Crash" Wallace & "Captain Jack" Stephen Jackson.

What I do not like: As pointed out, high probability of the "checking out" concept, from Larry Brown to Jackson. Boris Diaw out of shape again.

The one key factor: DJ Augustine being asked to play the right way. Raymond Felton bolted to the Knicks, and the promise of Shaun Livingston remains unfulfilled. Could be a bit too much.

4th Tier: Mediocrity Reign

Cleveland Cavaliers

What I like: JJ Hickson looks primed to emerge.

What I do not like: Small forward rotation is composed of Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon and Joey Graham. That happens when the person who they called "Quitness" leaves them on a lurch.

The one key factor: How Byron Scott can properly channel the energy that came after The Decision.

Philadelphia 76rs

What I like: Doug Collins being the taskmaster on this underachieving bunch.

What I do not like: Elton Brand being a shell of his former Clipper self.

The one key factor: Jrue Holliday. He's going to be given the keys to the offense.

New York Knicks

What I like: Exciting offense. The SSOL is always fan-friendly. Having a decent point guard like Felton running the team. Adding people who knew about it helps (Amar'e and the former Warriors who ran a similar offense dubbed as Nellieball)

What I do not like: Eddy Curry's still on the roster.

The one key factor: The Carmelo Sweepstakes. If the Knicks can find a way to get him without having to trade away Gallinari, it would be great.

Indiana Pacers

What I like: The acquisition of Darren Collison, making the team less scrappy.

What I do not like: Josh McRoberts starting at the PF position.

The one key factor: the PF position. Currently held by McRoberts, but Psycho T is creditable backup. Danny Granger can play it in a pinch.

Detroit Pistons

What I like: Hard to find one, honestly. Rip Hamilton running through screens the way he does it is something worth seeing as a basketball nut.

What I do not like: Charlie Villanueva and Ben Gordon, the overpaid guys not starting. Jonas Jerebko being out.

The one key factor: The ownership situation. Who takes over this franchise? That then dictates the next step, which is the idea of trading Rip Hamilton and or Tayshaun Prince.

5th Tier: Needs Reimaging

New Jersey Nets


What I like: The Russian Billionaire. Jay-Z. Brook Lopez and Devin Harris. The signings, because they acquired role players that can contribute immediately.

What I do not like: Not playing in the Barclays yet (Brooklyn), being stuck in the nowhereness of Newark.

The one key factor: Avery Johnson and Devin Harris. Avery was the coach during Devin's first few seasons in the league.

Washington Wizards

What I like: The development of John Wall, the acquisition of Kirk Hinrich.

What I do not like: Unproven mettle of their big men. Josh Howard being hurt.

The one key factor: What they will actually do with Gilbert Arenas. He's such a wildcard that could help or hurt them. The contract is definitely a huge millstone.

Toronto Raptors

What I like: The cosmopolitan surroundings of Canada. There has to be a reason why Hedo decided to party party last year.

What I do not like: The fact that they are a mess. Period.

The one key factor: Someone has to step up and lead this team. Whether it would be either of Calderon / Jack or Bargnani remains to be seen.

5 Things I Learned about Miami and Boston

Yes, I know it is one game, but it's nice noting observations about it, given the buzz it generated. Normally, it takes 20-30 games for teams to figure things out, so people can take me with a grain of salt.

1. Boston definitely has a bench. No Delonte? Marquis Daniels was adequate. So was Nate Robinson. Jermaine O'Neal was just fine. The Drunken Seal that is Big Baby was just awesome.

2. Motivated Shaq. Just 18 minutes, but the way he played at the start of the game set the tone for the C's. 9-7-1 = Perk numbers. The O'Neal's have a pretty defined role, that is to hold the fort until Kendrick returns.

3. The absence of Mike Miller hurts. James Jones and Eddie House played 26 minutes each. Mike Miller would have been better out there. I would think he would be getting 30 minutes at the most, like Udonis Haslem.

4. Dwayne Wade is cold. I believe this is the first game the player formerly known as Flash played after his hamstring injury. And it showed. 4/16 shooting. 6 turnovers. Speaking of cold, Chris Bosh was abysmal.

5. Lebron looked like Lebron we knew in Cleveland. 42 minutes. 31 points (10/21 shooting). 4 rebounds. 3 assts. Had to deal with Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and even Marquis Daniels all night long. The 3rd quarter was the Lebron we expected. He had a hand on the last 14pts the Heat scored in the 3rd canto.

Blog Outsourcing 6/7

Welcome to the newest edition of Sparty and Friends.

Today is June 7. At this time of the year, it would be the first day of school. A new school year. Where people are giddy for allowances, scared of teachers and nervous about the uncertain. The true fun for me came a bit late, in college, where it was always fun. Yes, that university Sparty highlighted in one of the comments. College made it fun. High school for me was focused on academics and not much on the trivial stuff. Makes me wonder what could have been. Then again, if I hadn't had the academic chops, I would not be able to withstand the academic rigors of my alma mater.

Today is the day Daniel Boone discovered what is currently Kentucky. The day before, it was D-Day. All I know is that June is one special month. It should be for everyone.

Here are the links:

The Blackhawks are one game away from Lord Stanley. But like what has been the norm, still overshadowed.

Who overshadowed Lord Stanley? The glam of the NBA Finals, where Boston secured the split. Rondo took over when Jesus Shuttlesworth was done shooting the **** out of Staples.

Oh and here is Kareem and Bill on Coach.


Can Dan Gilbert really snatch Tom Izzo over Sparty's dead body?

I am sure Trey has more details on Pac-10 becoming the new Southwest Conference. Meanwhile, Boise State mulls over a move. You know, all of this can be avoided really if South Bend joins the Big Televen.

Rafael Nadal is back where he belongs, as the master of Roland Garros.

The Lombardi Trophy has a new job, to uplift people's lives.

Ubaldomania goes on and on....

Yankees relied on Javy Vasquez to avert a sweep. Who knew? Meanwhile Rays keep in step while the Sawx gift one to Juan Samuel.

This Mike Stanton might make us forget the old Mike Stanton. Meanwhile, everybody is waiting for this version of Super Tuesday.

Oddly enough, I still remember him as a player.

Greece not getting good press lately. This does not help matters. Talk about partisan fans.

A soccer stampede? Not a good sign. At least it is insured. Here's a good sign for the Elephants.

What's up with England? A warm-up. Another World Cup injury, this time for the Dutch. And sometimes, one has to quit his job to see a dream.

Floyd Mayweather is a sissy. Meanwhile, Yankee Stadium was home to boxing again.

Parting shot: Here's a classic. Dedicated to Walter Ray Allen.

TWTWTNBA: The Finals Preview

From 30 to 2. With one trophy that two will fight over. Who will win? We will know the first step tonight.

How they survived the Conference Finals: Both teams advanced 4-2 in their respective series. The losers (Suns and Magic) both won two straight games in those series. Lakers won with offense, as all of their games with the Suns went over the century mark (Of course, it bears noticing that they are facing SSOL 2.0). In addition, the last time they were held below 100 in this stretch was Game 6 of their 1st round series with Oklahoma City. On the other hand, the Celtics scored between 92-96 points the entire series, winning with physical defense. Other than the Game 5 outlier, Beantown smothered Orlando.

X-Factors: For LA: it remains to be seen how effective Andrew Bynum is at this point. He was "the missing link" in 2008. If he can give them Kendrick Perkins-like numbers (9-8-1 blk), it would be of great help. Ron Artest, by being Mr. Queensbridge, is an X-factor by himself. For Boston: Perkins cannot get any more technicals. I hope he had Anger Management lessons. Boston does not really have a go-to-guy on their bench like Mr. Kardashian has been for LA, but anything additional from either Big Baby, Sheed, Tony Allen or even Nate Robinson will be highly welcomed and encouraged.

Keys: Making Kobe excessively work on the defensive end. That would be up to the Boston perimeter guys and Rajon. It is expected that Kobe will play heavy minutes, so any way you can get him to expend more energy that he would like would be welcomed. KG's play. We all know this is not the KG that was dominant in 2008. But any approximation of his play (not his mouth) from that time will be appreciated. Rondo. If you want to know how us here in the islands play ball, watch Rajon. In 2008, he was the caddy to the Big 3. Two years later, he's the floor generalissimo. And yes, that four straight tough PG matchups for Fisher, Farmar and Brown (@russwest44, @D_Will_8_4real, @the_real_nash).



Prediction: Yes, I was wrong in picking the Suns. I hope I can make it up with the Lakers in 6. I expect a split in LA, then 2 wins for the Lake Show in Boston. It will be close, though.

TWTWTNBA: Eastern Conference Finals Preview

Finally, out of the the rubble, two teams left standing in the East. Let's break them down.



Boston Celtics

How they got here: Beat Mv3 and the Wades (feat. Michael Beasley as Tito). Beat Lebron's elbow, heart and soul (possibly exiling him somewhere, like in New York).

2nd round assessment: KG eviscerated Jamison. Sheed came up huge in 2 games (Game 2 & 6), which has been enough with all the heavy lifting Rajon has been doing.

Key players: Will Tony Allen do a James Posey circa 2008? Will Kendrick Perkins be adequate against Superman? He was against Cleveland against the Man of Steel. Will the Ticket Stub win them another game? Paul Pierce was subpar in this series. Hope he emerges for John's sake.



The Orlando Magic.

How they got here: Toyed with the Hawks after breezing by playoff debutantes Charlotte. That's 8 straight wins and a 27-3 record in the last 30 games they have played.

2nd round assessment: Need I say more when Joe Johnson says this in Atlanta?

Key players: The last time they met in the playoffs, all I remember was the much ado about nothing push. Jameer missed out the last time they played. Will Vince be adequate enough? Can they really win with shooting threes like they (Pietrus, Barnes, Lewis, and yes, Redick) do?

Prediction: The Celtics win in 6. You will understand why when I post the Western Conference Finals Preview by Monday (Since Game 1 of the WCF will be on Monday (Tuesday in the islands)).

TWTWTNBA: Eastern Conference Semis assessment

All Four teams have been identified, so let's see how they will roll:

1. Cleveland vs 4. Boston (as of this writing, Series is even at 1 apiece)

1st round assessment: For the Cavs, @mogotti2 was a creditable #2 to the MVP, with his only dud performance being in the closeout game (Game 5) against the Bulls (now headless with Paxson exercising his authority). Cavs-Bulls was memorable for Joakim Noah. For the Celtics, I thought Nate was going to be a factor, but he is only visible on Twitter. I was terribly disappointed in Miami's play.

Key people to watch: For the Cavs, Jamison's play against Garnett will be a major factor. Doc Rivers has said that Sheed needs to play better and he did on Game 2. Then again, that's probably the first pulse we felt from Sheed since whenever.

Prediction: Cavs in 6. I did say that in the previous round, the Celtics will be barbecued by the Cavs. But Akron's elbow is a major cause of concern.

2. Orlando vs 3. Atlanta (as of this writing, Series is 1-0 favoring Orlando)

1st round assessment: I thought the Magic would have a much more difficult time against the Bobcats, but they swept past them, but not without much whining from Dwight and Stan Van regarding the physical play. The Hawks, I thought, would have an easier time against the Bucks, but the Deer proved to be feisty, and extended the series to the limit. No doubt these guys helped.

Key people to watch: After the hardships re: NBA officiating, let's see what Dwight does this round. On the other side, let's see how Al Horford matches skill with D-12.

Prediction: Magic in 5. This is a bad matchup for Atlanta. You saw for yourselves in Game 1.