The Pacific Division NBA Preview

Golden State Warriors - 23-43 record last season. Missed the playoffs.

Ideal Rotation: Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Harrison Barnes, David Lee, Andrew Bogut / Jarrett Jack, Brandon Rush, Richard Jefferson, Carl Landry, Andris Biedrins

Storyline/s: Injuries wrecked their season last year from Curry to their trade acquisitions Jefferson and Bogut, leaving Mark Jackson's side with slim pickins.

X-Factor/s: A healthy Bogut would be a huge bonus for Jackson's defensive plans for the W's.

Prognosis: Exiting in the first round of the playoffs.

Los Angeles Clippers - 40-26 record last season. 5th seed in the playoffs. Lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Semifinals

Ideal Rotation: Chris Paul, Chauncey Billups, Caron Butler, Blake Griffin, Deandre Jordan / Eric Bledsoe, Jamal Crawford, Grant Hill, Matt Barnes, Lamar Odom, Willie Green

Storyline/s: Lob City was outclassed by a better San Antonio team in the playoffs, and in trying to remedy that, they upgraded their bench with versatile and smart additions. Contract years for Chris Paul and Vinny del Negro also means huge stakes for the franchise.

X-Factor/s: Which Lamar Odom shows up? The version that helped in the Lakers' title campaigns or the one that manifested in Dallas?

Prognosis: Exiting in the Conference Semifinals.

Los Angeles Lakers - 41-25 record last season. Division Champions. 3rd seed in the playoffs. Lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals.

Ideal Rotation: Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, Metta World Peace, Pau Gasol, Dwight Howard / Steve Blake, Jodie Meeks, Antawn Jamison, Earl Clark, Jordan Hill

Storyline/s: The new parts. Mike Brown using the Princeton offense. Oh and the Black Mamba.

X-Factor/s: Metta World Peace stands out on that start-studded starting unit. In addition, securing Antawn Jamison as an off-the-bench option is an interesting move.

Prognosis: Division Champions. Exiting in the Conference Finals.

Phoenix Suns - 33-33 record last season. Missed the playoffs.

Ideal Rotation: Goran Dragic, Shannon Brown, Michael Beasley, Luis Scola, Marcin Gortat / Kendall Marshall, Sebastian Telfair, Jared Dudley, Wesley Johnson, Channing Frye

Storyline/s: Life after Steve Nash has begun. The present (Dragic) and the future (Marshall) attempt to pick up the pieces after the Suns traded the two-time MVP to Los Angeles.

X-Factor/s: Can Michael Beasley be the go-to-scorer for the Suns? Can Scola stabilize the paint alongside Gortat?

Prognosis: Missing the playoffs.

Sacramento Kings - 22-44 record last season. Missed the playoffs.

Ideal Rotation: Isaiah Thomas, Marcus Thornton, Tyreke Evans, Chuck Hayes, DeMarcus Cousins / Aaron Brooks, Jimmer Fredette, Francisco Garcia, Travis Outlaw, Thomas Robinson

Storyline/s: The drama has mainly been about the team staying in the state capital or moving elsewhere, whether to Anaheim or Las Vegas or Seattle.

X-Factor/s: Can Tyreke Evans prove himself to be worthy of an extension to stay with the team?

Prognosis: Missing the playoffs.

What Should Vinny Del Negro do? My LAC offseason wishlist (Part IV)

The Los Angeles Clippers finished with the 5th Seed in the Western Conference, needing seven games to fend off the Memphis Grizzlies, highlighted by their scintillating comeback from 27 points down in Game 1.

Unfortunately, they went up against the buzzsaw that is the San Antonio Spurs, thus ending their postseason.

Free Agency Fever has begun. Now what? Let's go through it...

The holdovers: Eric Bledsoe, Caron Butler,  Ryan Gomes, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, Travis Leslie, Lamar Odom, Chris Paul and Trey Thompkins.

What exactly went on in the Odom deal? Here is the official wording from the Clippers themselves.

The Los Angeles Clippers today acquired forward Lamar Odom from the Dallas Mavericks as part of a four-team trade also involving the Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets.  The Clippers sent point guard Mo Williams to the Jazz and the draft rights to Furkan Aldemir, the Clippers’ second round selection (53rd overall) in the 2012 NBA Draft to Houston while the Jazz conveyed the draft rights of Tadija Dragicevic, Utah’s second round pick (53rd overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to Dallas.  To complete the trade, Dallas sent the draft rights of Shan Foster, the Mavericks’ second round selection (51st overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to the Jazz with Houston sending cash considerations to Dallas. 

What does Lamar Odom provide you? The former Clipper provides versatility with his size as well as his veteran experience. He'll also improve bench production that will be affected after the departure of Mo Will.

Why subject Ryan Gomes to the amnesty clause? Based on the current roster of the Clippers, only two players are eligible for that move, he and Eric Bledsoe. The move ensures the club is no longer in danger of exceeding the hard cap and paying luxury tax.

Who do we keep? Here are the Los Angeles Clippers' unrestricted free agents: Chauncey Billups Randy Foye, Kenyon Martin, Bobby Simmons, They do not have any RFAs.

Billups and Martin are vets that I'd like to keep around as locker room guys and role players. I value Foye's contributions, but definitely will not overpay for him.

Reggie Evans is also one of our free agents, but the Clippers arranged for a sign-and-trade to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for a heavily protected second round pick.

Nick Young has already agreed in principle for a one-year deal with Philadelphia.

Chauncey Billups has officially rejoined the Clippers.

Who should we chase? There are three tiers of players that the Clippers should be chasing.

1. Two-guards. It is very clear that LA needs height in its backcourt. Also a shooter. Ideally, the two should go together, but not really that necessary on the latter. A couple of interesting options being thrown around is Jamal Crawford and Jason Terry, but the former has some well-known issues and the latter is 34 and is probably on the decline. They have targeted Ray Allen as well, who is definitely on the decline, but his shooting is perceived to be an asset. If said two-guard can play small forward in a pinch, it would be an advantage.

2. Tall big. DeAndre is the only true center they have in the lineup, but there is a need to secure some height. We need also for that particular big man to be able to either mentor DeAndre or push him to play better. One of the free agent options would be to bring back Marcus Camby, who helped with the mentoring process in the early years. It would be of great help if the big has some workable talent at least on one side of the floor.

3. Bench depth. There is a need to upgrade team depth. It sometimes became too agonizing to watch non-production in our rotation. Whether Vinny Del Negro had anything to do with that, we are not exactly THAT sure, but having key pieces to surround our offensive core will really be welcomed.

Now, time to peruse the targets.

Philadelphia 76rs Lou Williams has already made the move to Atlanta. Jodie Meeks and Xavier Silas are tall guards who could fit LAC's needs, especially Jodie's shooting. Sam Young can serve as a backup to Caron. Craig Brackins would be an interesting option off the bench, while Tony Battie is a tall big that precisely could fit in the Clippers' budgetary plans.

Phoenix Suns: Robin Lopez is restricted, and more likely going to be retained by the Suns. Aaron Brooks and Shannon Brown are guards who are too small and too redundant for the Clippers' needs in the backcourt. Besides, Brooks is already headed to Sacramento. The same can be said for Ronnie Price. The Clips are more likely to go after Michael Redd and Grant Hill, given their needs.

Update: Grant Hill is going to be a Clipper.

Portland Trailblazers: Raymond Felton has agreed to a sign-and-trade to the Knicks, while Nicolas Batum has an offer sheet from Minnesota that Neil Olshey is taking his sweet time on. JJ Hickson has a deal set up for him to stay in the Northwest. Joel Pryzbilla would fit the tall big need, but with the current cap space available, he may possibly be out of the price range. Fans would welcome the return of former Clipper Craig Smith, but he is undersized for the position. Former lottery selection Jonny Flynn does not fit the need that the Clippers are looking for.

Sacramento Kings: Their free agent options are interesting free agent options.Terrence Williams and Donte Greene are wing options that would be handy in providing spot minutes for the team as relievers.

San Antonio Spurs:Tim Duncan will always be a Spur. Reports are that Spurs are to keep Danny Green with an offer. The former UNC Tar Heel proved to be an effective option for Popovich as an alternative starter to Manu Ginobili. Patty Mills will probably sign after his Olympic campaign with Australia, while the same can be said for Boris Diaw for France.

Toronto Raptors: Aaron Gray looks to be staying in Canada, but the other two tall big free agents in Solomon Alabi and Jamaal Magloire could be intriguing possibilities. Sonny Weems and Alan Anderson are cheap wing options for LA. As for Ben Uzoh, his skill set is pretty much already set by the current Clipper roster.

Utah Jazz: Josh Howard and C.J. Miles are interesting wing possibilities, while Blake Ahearn would be a luxury with the backcourt depth available.

Washington Wizards: Cartier Martin is staying in Washington. Brian Cook is no stranger to Clipper fans, as he was LA's throw-in for the deal that sent Nene to the nation's capital from Denver. Also familiar would be James Singleton, the hardworking forward who spent his first two seasons there. Morris Almond and Maurice Evans are two different kinds of swingmen. Morris can fill it up, while Maurice will make it difficult for you to fill it up.

What Should Vinny Del Negro do? My LAC offseason wishlist (Part III)

The Los Angeles Clippers finished with the 5th Seed in the Western Conference, needing seven games to fend off the Memphis Grizzlies, highlighted by their scintillating comeback from 27 points down in Game 1.

Unfortunately, they went up against the buzzsaw that is the San Antonio Spurs, thus ending their postseason.

Free Agency Fever has begun. Now what? Let's go through it...

The holdovers: Eric Bledsoe, Caron Butler,  Ryan Gomes, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, Travis Leslie, Lamar Odom, Chris Paul and Trey Thompkins.

What exactly went on in the Odom deal? Here is the official wording from the Clippers themselves.

The Los Angeles Clippers today acquired forward Lamar Odom from the Dallas Mavericks as part of a four-team trade also involving the Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets.  The Clippers sent point guard Mo Williams to the Jazz and the draft rights to Furkan Aldemir, the Clippers’ second round selection (53rd overall) in the 2012 NBA Draft to Houston while the Jazz conveyed the draft rights of Tadija Dragicevic, Utah’s second round pick (53rd overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to Dallas.  To complete the trade, Dallas sent the draft rights of Shan Foster, the Mavericks’ second round selection (51st overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to the Jazz with Houston sending cash considerations to Dallas. 

What does Lamar Odom provide you? The former Clipper provides versatility with his size as well as his veteran experience. He'll also improve bench production that will be affected after the departure of Mo Will.

Who do we keep? Here are the Los Angeles Clippers' unrestricted free agents: Chauncey Billups Randy Foye, Kenyon Martin, Bobby Simmons, Nick Young. They do not have any RFAs.

Billups and Martin are vets that I'd like to keep around as locker room guys and role players. I value Foye's contributions, but definitely will not overpay for him. Likewise for Nick Young, but Swaggy P has some flaws that kind of make me cringe a little.


Reggie Evans is also one of our free agents, but the Clippers arranged for a sign-and-trade to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for a heavily protected second round pick.

Nick Young has already agreed in principle for a one-year deal with Philadelphia.

Who should we chase? There are three tiers of players that the Clippers should be chasing.

1. Two-guards. It is very clear that LA needs height in its backcourt. Also a shooter. Ideally, the two should go together, but not really that necessary on the latter. A couple of interesting options being thrown around is Jamal Crawford and Jason Terry, but the former has some well-known issues and the latter is 34 and is probably on the decline. They have targeted Ray Allen as well, who is definitely on the decline, but his shooting is perceived to be an asset. If said two-guard can play small forward in a pinch, it would be an advantage.

2. Tall big. DeAndre is the only true center they have in the lineup, but there is a need to secure some height. We need also for that particular big man to be able to either mentor DeAndre or push him to play better. One of the free agent options would be to bring back Marcus Camby, who helped with the mentoring process in the early years. It would be of great help if the big has some workable talent at least on one side of the floor.

3. Bench depth. There is a need to upgrade team depth. It sometimes became too agonizing to watch non-production in our rotation. Whether Vinny Del Negro had anything to do with that, we are not exactly THAT sure, but having key pieces to surround our offensive core will really be welcomed.

Now, time to peruse the targets.

Miami Heat: After winning a title, Juwan Howard is probably off to retirement. Ronny Turiaf and Eddy Curry are complete polar opposites, with the Gonzaga alum being the more palatable choice. Considering the options available, the chance for Terrel Harris to be a Clipper has passed.

Milwaukee Bucks: Carlos Delfino would be an intriguing target, with his shooting capability. Kwame Brown, in spite of his "bust" tag, has been in the league for a while already with his size and defensive skill. Ersan Ilyasova is probably out of our price range.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Michael Beasley has already agreed to be with Phoenix Suns. Anthony Tolliver is a serviceable and capable big, while Anthony Randolph is the usual case of potential unrealized.

New Orleans Hornets: Clipper fans would love to bring back Eric Gordon, but Phoenix has already made the max deal that the Indiana alum prefers. Another former Clipper in Chris Kaman would be someone they'd like to take back, but he'll be getting better offers. With Lamar in the team, does not make much sense to go after Carl Landry.

New York Knicks: Landry Fields has been signed to an offer sheet by the Raptors, while Jeremy Lin just signed his with the Houston Rockets. Mike Bibby and Baron Davis do not fit the current needs of the Clippers, however, JR Smith and Steve Novak do, the former for his off-the-bench scoring ability and the latter for his shooting prowess. As for Jared Jeffries, he is someone who can defend multiple positions and would be handy for any team.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Derek Fisher is a veteran point guard who can provide leadership and stability at the position, while Royal Ivey is a surplus guard whose calling card is supposed to be on the defensive end. Both guards would be perceived as luxuries to the Clippers, thus non-necessity. However, Nazr Mohammed is big guy down low buried by better talent in front of him in Ibaka, Perkins and Collison. He has the size for the position and could be handy for LA.

Orlando Magic: Ryan Anderson looks to be the buddy for Anthony Davis in New Orleans, while Jameer Nelson looms to be staying. Daniel Orton is an intriguing possibility for the Clippers to sign as their cheap back-up big, as he is truly big. Positional gluts will probably make DeAndre Liggins and Ish Smith as non-targets.

What Should Vinny Del Negro do? My LAC offseason wishlist (Part II)

The Los Angeles Clippers finished with the 5th Seed in the Western Conference, needing seven games to fend off the Memphis Grizzlies, highlighted by their scintillating comeback from 27 points down in Game 1.

Unfortunately, they went up against the buzzsaw that is the San Antonio Spurs, thus ending their postseason.

Free Agency Fever has begun. Now what? Let's go through it...

The holdovers: Eric Bledsoe, Caron Butler,  Ryan Gomes, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, Travis Leslie, Lamar Odom, Chris Paul and Trey Thompkins.

What exactly is going on with the Odom deal? Here is the official wording from the Clippers themselves.

The Los Angeles Clippers today acquired forward Lamar Odom from the Dallas Mavericks as part of a four-team trade also involving the Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets.  The Clippers sent point guard Mo Williams to the Jazz and the draft rights to Furkan Aldemir, the Clippers’ second round selection (53rd overall) in the 2012 NBA Draft to Houston while the Jazz conveyed the draft rights of Tadija Dragicevic, Utah’s second round pick (53rd overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to Dallas.  To complete the trade, Dallas sent the draft rights of Shan Foster, the Mavericks’ second round selection (51st overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to the Jazz with Houston sending cash considerations to Dallas. 

What does Lamar Odom provide you? The former Clipper provides versatility with his size as well as his veteran experience. He'll also improve bench production that will be affected after the departure of Mo Will.

Who do we keep? Here are the Los Angeles Clippers' unrestricted free agents: Chauncey Billups Randy Foye, Kenyon Martin, Bobby Simmons, Nick Young. They do not have any RFAs.

Billups and Martin are vets that I'd like to keep around as locker room guys and role players. I value Foye's contributions, but definitely will not overpay for him. Likewise for Nick Young, but Swaggy P has some flaws that kind of make me cringe a little.


Reggie Evans is also one of our free agents, but the Clippers arranged for a sign-and-trade to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for a heavily protected second round pick.

Who should we chase? There are three tiers of players that the Clippers should be chasing.

1. Two-guards. It is very clear that LA needs height in its backcourt. Also a shooter. Ideally, the two should go together, but not really that necessary on the latter. A couple of interesting options being thrown around is Jamal Crawford and Jason Terry, but the former has some well-known issues and the latter is 34 and is probably on the decline. They have targeted Ray Allen as well, who is definitely on the decline, but his shooting is perceived to be an asset. If said two-guard can play small forward in a pinch, it would be an advantage.

2. Tall big. DeAndre is the only true center they have in the lineup, but there is a need to secure some height. We need also for that particular big man to be able to either mentor DeAndre or push him to play better. One of the free agent options would be to bring back Marcus Camby, who helped with the mentoring process in the early years. It would be of great help if the big has some workable talent at least on one side of the floor.

3. Bench depth. There is a need to upgrade team depth. It sometimes became too agonizing to watch non-production in our rotation. Whether Vinny Del Negro had anything to do with that, we are not exactly THAT sure, but having key pieces to surround our offensive core will really be welcomed.

Now, time to peruse the targets.

Denver Nuggets: JaVale McGee is an emerging young big man, whose talent will be out of the Clippers' price range. Andre Miller looks like he will be staying in the Mile High City, while Rudy Fernandez looks to return home to Spain to play for Real Madrid.

Detroit Pistons: Ben Wallace has already said he will be retiring. Walker Russell is a small guard, which the Clippers currently have in spades. Vernon Macklin is a young big that may be available for cheap, while Damien Wilkins is a sort-of serviceable forward off the bench that might be of interest in case the top free agent options become unavailable.

Golden State Warriors: Brandon Rush is a restricted free agent that LA might interest, with his skill set and needs that he can address at the 2-guard spot. Chris Wright and Dominic McGuire are undersized hardworking forwards who could play spot minutes as third-tier forwards, while Mickell Gladness and Mikki Moore are decent defensive-oriented centers that can spot minutes for you as well. Nate Robinson would be a fan favorite, but he is a small scoring guard, and the Clippers are already small at the position (as of the moment).

Houston Rockets: The main target is Courtney Lee, a sweet-shooting swingman. He is one guy that fits the need and is young. Clipper fans would welcome the return of Marcus Camby to the team as the team's third big. Goran Dragic and Earl Boykins are guards that would be a luxury for Clippers fans and in Goran's case, a very expensive one at that.

Indiana Pacers: Portland has already offered a deal for Roy Hibbert that is way over what LA could provide. George Hill is staying, while the other restricted guy in AJ Price is a point guard that may be a great free agent steal if he can find the right team. Unfortunately, that is not going to be Los Angeles. Clippers have had an interest in securing Kyrylo Fesenko last season before they got Kenyon Martin. Lou Amundson could reprise what Reggie Evans did last season, while Leandrinho Barbosa can jumpstart an offense off the bench.

Los Angeles Lakers: Darius Morris looks like he is staying with the Lakers. The other restricted free agent, Devin Ebanks, could be a serviceable defensive wing option off the bench. As for the unrestricted free agent options, Jordan Hill's play last season has priced himself out of the Clippers' hands, while former Clipper Matt Barnes could prove to be serviceable, if his skill set has not regressed. The same can be said for Troy Murphy. As for Ramon Sessions, he would be a luxury choice that probably would be too pricey for the other side of Staples.

Memphis Grizzlies: Both restricted free agents, Darrell Arthur and Maresse Speights would be ideal third big options. Hamed Haddadi would be a very intriguing cheap big as well. After seeing Gilbert Arenas, it is pretty much safe to say his best days have long passed him by. Lester Hudson might be a better player compared to Agent Zero. And as for OJ Mayo, he would fill a need, definitely, but there are other teams who have a need that he can fill and better compensate him for it.

What Should Vinny Del Negro do? My LAC offseason wishlist (Part I)

The Los Angeles Clippers finished with the 5th Seed in the Western Conference, needing seven games to fend off the Memphis Grizzlies, highlighted by their scintillating comeback from 27 points down in Game 1.

Unfortunately, they went up against the buzzsaw that is the San Antonio Spurs, thus ending their postseason.

Free Agency Fever has begun. Now what? Let's go through it...

The holdovers: Eric Bledsoe, Caron Butler,  Ryan Gomes, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, Travis Leslie, Lamar Odom, Chris Paul and Trey Thompkins.

What exactly is going on with the Odom deal? Here is the official wording from the Clippers themselves.

The Los Angeles Clippers today acquired forward Lamar Odom from the Dallas Mavericks as part of a four-team trade also involving the Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets.  The Clippers sent point guard Mo Williams to the Jazz and the draft rights to Furkan Aldemir, the Clippers’ second round selection (53rd overall) in the 2012 NBA Draft to Houston while the Jazz conveyed the draft rights of Tadija Dragicevic, Utah’s second round pick (53rd overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to Dallas.  To complete the trade, Dallas sent the draft rights of Shan Foster, the Mavericks’ second round selection (51st overall) in the 2008 NBA Draft to the Jazz with Houston sending cash considerations to Dallas. 

What does Lamar Odom provide you? The former Clipper provides versatility with his size as well as his veteran experience. He'll also improve bench production that will be affected after the departure of Mo Will.

Who do we keep? Here are the Los Angeles Clippers' unrestricted free agents: Chauncey Billups, Reggie Evans, Randy Foye, Kenyon Martin, Bobby Simmons, Nick Young. They do not have any RFAs.

Billups and Martin are vets that I'd like to keep around as locker room guys and role players. Ditto for Evans. I value Foye's contributions, but definitely will not overpay for him. Likewise for Nick Young, but Swaggy P has some flaws that kind of make me cringe a little.

Update: What has been agreed on principle is a sign-and-trade by the Brooklyn Nets for Reggie Evans for a heavily protected second round pick.

Who should we chase? There are three tiers of players that the Clippers should be chasing.

1. Two-guards. It is very clear that LA needs height in its backcourt. Also a shooter. Ideally, the two should go together, but not really that necessary on the latter. A couple of interesting options being thrown around is Jamal Crawford and Jason Terry, but the former has some well-known issues and the latter is 34 and is probably on the decline. They have targeted Ray Allen as well, who is definitely on the decline, but his shooting is perceived to be an asset. If said two-guard can play small forward in a pinch, it would be an advantage.

2. Tall big. DeAndre is the only true center they have in the lineup, but there is a need to secure some height. We need also for that particular big man to be able to either mentor DeAndre or push him to play better. One of the free agent options would be to bring back Marcus Camby, who helped with the mentoring process in the early years. It would be of great help if the big has some workable talent at least on one side of the floor.

3. Bench depth. There is a need to upgrade team depth. It sometimes became too agonizing to watch non-production in our rotation. Whether Vinny Del Negro had anything to do with that, we are not exactly THAT sure, but having key pieces to surround our offensive core will really be welcomed.

Now, time to peruse the targets.


Atlanta - Kirk Hinrich would be an interesting piece, as Vinny did coach him in Chicago. Willie Green can fill it up. Tracy McGrady is a proven scorer, but he has a lot of miles on that body. Considering that he'll probably play around 15-20 minutes, might just be enough. Erick Dampier and Jason Collins surely provide size, but they are definitely fillers at this point. We have seen Vlad Radmanovic already in a Clipper uniform and he does not fit the plan.

Boston - Ray Allen is the primary target, as he precisely fits the need. Mickael Pietrus and Marquis Daniels would also fit as tall-two guards, although both players have major injury issues that might scare off most people. Someone with possible health issue is Jeff Green, but he duplicates Odom. Keyon Dooling did start out his career with the Clippers, but at this point, he does not really fit the needs of the team as of the moment. As for Brandon Bass, he might have priced himself out of the Clippers' reach, but he definitely can serve as the offensive option off the bench should he even think of joining the team. There are better options out there than Sasha Pavlovic and Ryan Hollins.

Brooklyn - Deron Williams and Gerald Wallace have crossed themselves out with their respective deals. So would DeShawn Stevenson, because he will be sent to Atlanta via sign-and-trade. Kris Humphries would be an interesting off the bench option, but if he will be used for the inevitable Dwight Howard trade, he will be used in it. Gerald Green would fit the need as the scorer off the bench, and with his play for the Nets last year, earned some dough when he will get his next contract. Sundiata Gaines, Armon Johnson (small guards) and Shelden Williams (defensive big) are the type of players that do not fit the need for Vinny in the team due to role duplication. As for Damion James, he is an interesting case that we might take a flier on, but he was not really used by Avery Johnson.

Charlotte - D.J Augustin is restricted, but given Los Angeles' point guards, not a need. Derrick Brown might be a better target, but like D.J., is a restricted free agent that Mike Dunlap might find handy in trying to remake the sad sack franchise. Cory Higgins was said to be ranked as the worst NBA free agent available in the market this season, while Eduardo Najera and D.J. White could be interesting undersized big men options, with White being a better alternative compared to the Oklahoma alum.

Chicago - Omer Asik already has a poison pill-filled offer sheet from Houston that makes him already out of the Clipper price range. John Lucas III and Mike James would replicate the current positioning of the Clippers at this point, while I won't mind having Brian Scalabrine on the team as the "Jack Haley" benchwarmer, his skill set is something that is found on better players.

Cleveland - Anthony Parker has announced his retirement and is seeking a front office job, while Semih Erden is said to be going back to Turkey. Meanwhile, Alonzo Gee was a minor revelation for the Cavs and in likelihood, will be someone they will retain unless someone overpays. Although Jamison would be a welcome addition, because of the addition of Odom, he would then become a luxury instead of fixing a need. As for Luke Harangody, he's a younger version of Brian Scalabrine, talent-wise.

Dallas - We already know that Jason Terry is headed to Boston. Jason Kidd has said to have whittled down his choices to pretty much either Dallas or New York. Ian Mahinmi and Delonte West are undersized yet serviceable guys for their respective positions and would be welcome additions, especially Delonte. Brian Cardinal is like Brian Scalabrine. As for Yi Jianlian, he's a stiff.

TWTWTNBA: The Pacific 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 Pacific Division were to set up an All-Star team of their own, this would be their logical pool of candidates:

Golden State Warriors - Monta Ellis, Stephen Curry, David Lee, Dorell Wright

Los Angeles Clippers - Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, Baron Davis

Los Angeles Lakers - Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom

Phoenix Suns -  Steve Nash, Grant Hill, Vince Carter

Sacramento Kings - Tyreke Evans, DeMarcus Cousins

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

Coach: Phil Jackson - He has 11 rings as a coach and 2 as a player. That's all.

Starters:

Guard: Steve Nash - The two-time MVP is the only reason why Phoenix is relevant.


Guard: Kobe Bryant - The Black Mamba recently celebrated the 5th anniversary of 81.

Forward: Lamar Odom - Khloe's husband was definitely rejuvenated by playing for Team USA. His role there also helped him with his role in LA. He's in near double-double territory.


Forward: Blake Griffin - He's just simply the gift that keeps on giving. There's already Clipper merchandise available dubbing him as "The Poster Child."


Center: Pau Gasol - He is the early season MVP for the defending champs, with Kobe having a slow start.


Reserves:

Guard: Monta Ellis - He's ballin' at a ridiculous level. Apparently, only a moped can derail him.


Center: David Lee - He's an offensive upgrade compared to what they had previously. Plus, the Warriors went in the tank when he was sidelined.

Guard: Tyreke Evans - Plagued with plantar fasciatis, he's still producing numbers harkening to his 20-5-5 ROY.

Guard: Stephen Curry - Hard to argue with the numbers. He really can shoot the lights out.


Forward: Dorell Wright - Golden State needed a small forward. He needed to prove himself. Perfect match.

Guard: Baron Davis - He definitely needs to thank Blake Griffin for re-energizing him as well as figuring out his new role as a distributor first and scorer second. (Update: This was supposed to be Eric Gordon, but he's injured)

Forward: Grant Hill - I will take him over Vince Carter. The wonders of the Phoenix Suns Medical Staff at work.


Inactive Roster:

Guard: Eric Gordon - Beneath all the flash of Blake Griffin is a smooth suave killer instinct Ambrose provides for Clipper Nation. He's now ready to take over games. (Update: He's out until the All-Star break, so I moved him here.)

Guard: Vince Carter - I just don't know how he can be revived. What started out with a bang will end on a whimper.


Center: DeMarcus Cousins - If only he can get his head screwed on straight. Definitely needs mentoring from someone with similar attributes: Zach Randolph

TWTWTNBA: Western Conference Christmas / New Year Wish List

It's the end of 2010 and the beginning of 2011 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.

Northwest

Denver - To secure what really is the most beneficial solution involving Carmelo Anthony. Then proceed accordingly.

Minnesota - For them to really figure out what they ought to be doing with the rights to Ricky Rubio. For Kevin Love to possibly win the rebounding title. Peace of mind for Michael Beasley.

Oklahoma City - Air Congo possibly making a surprise presence at the Dunk Contest. Maintaining team chemistry as the kids get better.

Portland - A top tier medical staff to address specifically the needs of Greg Oden and Brandon Roy and in Greg's case, a sports psychologist. A new team for Rudy Fernandez (and possibly Andre Miller). Probably the wherewithal to tell Brandon Roy to rest.

Utah - A Jerry Sloan Coach of the Year Trophy. Find the true successor to Jeff Hornacek.

Southwest

Dallas - As of the moment, with Dirk on the mend, the last thing they need is another injury. And then Caron happened.

Houston - A return on investment for Yao Ming.

Memphis - To be more mature and handling chemistry issues. Fights like what happened between OJ Mayo and Tony Allen need to be avoided.

New Orleans - For everything to be right with Chris Paul's knee. For the NBA to do the right thing with how they are to handle their ownership of the Hornets.

San Antonio - Quite simply, for the health of their key guys. Duncan is obviously is slowly into the David Robinson fade phase.

Pacific

Golden State - An All-Star berth for Monta Ellis. And a constant effort from everyone on the defensive end. Credit for Dorell Wright earning his paycheck with his play.

Defending Champs - For Andrew Bynum to just get it. And after how they got blown out by the Grizz, for someone to knock some sense into them, as per Phil.

Los Angeles - For Blake Griffin to continue to be the gift that keeps on giving. A Baron Davis that is happy to accept the role as a facilitator and defer to Eric Gordon and Blake.

Phoenix - A Vince Carter that would be reinvigorated via the Steve Nash osmosis. Marcin Gortat being the guy that Mark Cuban wanted to get.

Sacramento - A Demarcus Cousins with his head screwed on straight.

The West on a Tier - An Alternative Look at the Western Conference

You have seen the Pacific, Northwest & Southwest Divisions as previewed by someone. Time to put in my two cents on the picture.

Yes, I know the season has started. Been a little busy. And as per someone's wishes, the Miami admiration / bashing via the one-off posts will be kept at a bare minimum.

Here we go.

1st Tier: The Champs

Los Angeles Lakers

What I Like: Adding Steve Blake, Theo Ratliff and Matt Barnes is certainly a huge upgrade.

What I do not Like: Injury woes with Andrew Bynum still dogging them.

The one key factor: Pau Gasol. He's gonna carry this team (especially early on) with Kobe taking it nice and easy due to his knee issues. I think he will be in the 20-10 range this season.

2nd Tier: The Wily Veterans

Dallas Mavericks

What I Like: Having Tyson Chandler to lob to for Jason Kidd. Dirk being Dirk. Mark Cuban. The possibility of Mavs games at the Jerryworld.

What I do not Like: Kidd is 38. He's reduced to shooting threes at this point.

The one key factor: Do the veterans still have it in them? They always seem to come up short. Dirk has logged in a lot of minutes as well and can he withstand the long season (although he did not participate in Istanbul).

San Antonio Spurs

What I Like: They are the most fundamental team on earth. They'll bore you to death.

What I do not Like: Injury concerns with Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker.

The one key factor: DeJuan Blair as the starting center of the Spurs. Timmy D's is in the downward slope of his career. He needs to help him carry the weight, so to speak.

Utah Jazz

What I Like: How the Jazz stole Al Jefferson the way the Lakers stole Pau Gasol. A stud PG in Deron Williams. Jerry Sloan still coaching the pick & roll.

What I do not Like: The hole in their shooting guard position, because Portland millsap'd Wesley Matthews after his playoff performance. All up to CJ Miles and Raja Bell.

The one key factor: Whether AK-47 will return to his peak form. If not with the Jazz, he's a good expiring contract to use as an asset.

3rd Tier: The Wildcard

Oklahoma City Thunder


What I Like: Pretty much everything. I got a mancrush on this team, have to admit.

What I do not Like: They don't have a savvy veteran leadership who would say, "I've been here before." Does Mo Pete apply in this case? Law of averages? (They were pretty much injury-free last year.)

The one key factor: Can they handle the pressure of being one of the top teams in the conference? Lots of eyes are on them. Will they live up to the expectations? Remember, they were one-and-done last time.

4th Tier: Central Question Marks

Portland Trailblazers

What I Like: Brandon Roy. Their head coach Nate McMillan. The mix of good veteran leaders and youngsters.

What I do not Like: Greg Oden going the Sam Bowie route. And he did the Brett Favre (even though he predated it). The lingering row between Miller and Roy.

The one key factor: Injuries have kowtowed their chances to succeed the past few seasons, especially last year. I know Sam Presti has seen what the Blazers have gone through, because what Portland was before, Oklahoma City is now.

Houston Rockets

What I Like: Kevin Martin and Aaron Brooks shooting lots and lots of FT attempts. That and Luis Scola.

What I do not Like: None, really. But if pressed, probably the Chinese obsession in All-Star voting.

The one key factor: What Yao Ming can do in 24 minutes/game. Career wise, that would be translating into 14-7 with 1 blk.

Denver Nuggets

What I Like: The altitude factor. Chauncey Billups. The promise of Ty Lawson. The Fight against Cancer by George Karl.

What I do not Like: The atrocious neck tattoos on Kenyon Martin and Chris Andersen.

The one key factor: The Carmelo situation, also known as the white elephant in the room. Everything follows once that is settled. Could last as long as Lebron's.

5th Tier: Good, but not THAT Good

Phoenix Suns

What I Like: Alvin Gentry's version of the SSOL. Steve Nash. Jared Dudley. Josh Childress. Sideshow Mel a.k.a Robin Lopez. Alvin Gentry's daughter (she's an avid tweeter.)

What I do not Like: Too much wings, which may result in Hedo playing PF. God held him.

The one key factor: As always, the medicine men of the Suns. Grant Hill was finally healthy. Imagine that.

New Orleans Hornets

What I Like: Current GM Dell Demps used to play in the Philippines as a reinforcement. The Skip Prosser connection (CP3 / David West)

What I do not Like: Still bogged down by bad contracts (although not as much as before). Marco Bellinelli starting alongside CP3. I still remember Marco as the Summer League stud.

The one key factor: How Monty Williams fares in his head coaching debut. I think I still have his NBA trading card. My how old I am.

6th Tier: On the Cusp

Los Angeles Clippers

What I Like: Admittedly biased, I like almost everything with them. Starting with Blake Griffin.

What I do not Like: Knowing that the Clipper malaise is just around the corner, waiting and waiting. Losing Steve Blake to the other side of Staples.

The one key factor: Baron Davis. All I ask him is to Getcha Head in the Game. And stay healthy, too.

Memphis Grizzlies

What I Like: How these guys can go up and down the court and showcase their athleticism.

What I do not Like: They'll be making a lot of financial decisions this coming offseason, starting with Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. Still think they overpaid Rudy Gay.

The one key factor: Will Mike Conley be the PG that can run this team? They need a capable PG to run an offense.

Sacramento Kings

What I Like: The young cast of characters. The uptempo nature of Paul Westphal.

What I do not Like: Logjam with Cousins, Dalembert, Landry, Thompson at the bigs and Garcia, Greene, Casspi at the wings.

The one key factor: #Reke4ROY is over. What's the next step for Tyreke? His development will determine if they would be able to go up to the tier above within the next two years.

7th Tier: Needs Reimaging

Golden State Warriors

What I Like: Steph Curry, who is one of the smartest young studs out there. The fans who stood by with this team even when they stink, and out here, there are a lot of people I know who trace their links to the Bay Area who love them as well.

What I do not Like: How this team is really that bad defensively. Dorell Wright starting at the 3. Monta Ellis, because he really is overrated.

The one key factor: How Keith Smart will do in his first head coaching job. Will he keep the Nellieball concept? Based from how things are, he just might.

Minnesota Timberwolves

What I Like: As a Clipper fan, having their first round pick in 2012 (Thank you, Marko). Kevin Love.

What I do not Like: David Kahn running this franchise, knowing Stephen Curry could have made wonders.

The one key factor: The potential of Michael Beasley could be realized. Or it could set them back so far...

The New Clipper Era (?)

I am a Clipper fan, a proud one (amidst all the ridicule that comes with being one). With this news out in the way, it is a sign that that the much maligned owner Donald Sterling has had enough of the frustrations the Clipper fans have had. Yes, we made the playoffs once, was close to another and remained perpetually atrocious all other times.

Neil Olshey is the temporary GM, but we will presume he is just there to handle things until the new GM comes in. Yahoo!'s Adrian Wojnarowski has already suggested current Nuggets GM Mark Warkentien (who is part of the FA Class of 2010) as a possible replacement. As a No. 2, he is just fine, especially with the deals he pulled off.

For me, what is exactly needed would be someone to first buy the Clippers away from Donald Sterling, then get a good quality young GM, then a good quality young coach. The Clippers have cap space and good decent players (Kaman, Griffin, Gordon).

It is frustrating though, seeing being blown out game after game. Maddening, indeed.

The Clipper Virus struck

The Clippers are really cursed. Damn. Blake Griffin has a hurt kneecap. Out 6 weeks. Damn. I hope DeAndre Jordan, Marcus Camby and Chris Kaman can shoulder the load, and Al Thornton, too. But we really need this guy to do what he does best: Give all out all the time.