Blog Outsourcing 2/22

 

Today is Monday. It is technically a holiday here, but only for students. The working class hero (like me) will be plugging away at the office. Well, today back in 1986, there was a bloodless revolution that toppled a dictator four days later. I was only four years old then, so not much memories.

Speaking of Mondays, this particular day of the week is always a struggle for me. Since I work under the Eastern timezone, which is 13 hours (or 12 in certain circumstances), it equates to being at work late at night until the early morning. So if I had a great weekend, I need to compensate and readjust my clock back to where it was. Serious sluggishness ensues. But no worries. I love my job and what i do, so there.

Here are the links, after the jump.

Redemption for Salt Lake City? Mission still unfinished, though. Oh. 30 years ago, today....

NBC = FAIL. Agreed? Good thing I managed to watched it sort of (TV was on while I dozed off).

Finally. A gold he long needed for legitimacy.

In this new era of the interwebs and mobile media, bad press is really not good. Especially with this coming after the Michael Phelps mess.

Ohno makes history!!!!

Sore loser?

Here is the updated medal count.

48 for 48.

There is a reason why the Twins have a new ballpark. I am so sure Sparty wants to pry him out of J-Rod's hands.

I wonder if GITC is his main apologist.

Keep raising the Durant-e, Kevin.

Trey must be in a good mood. Sparty as well.

Again, I know John will give an arm and a leg to ensure a healthy Paul Pierce.

This video is special was inspired from the comments from yesterday.

TWTWTNBA: Breaking Down the Trade Deadline deals

And so, these are the deals that beat the deadline buzzer.

1. Dallas gets Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and Deshawn Stevenson from Washington for Josh Howard, Drew Gooden, James Singleton and Quinton Ross

2. Portland gets Marcus Camby from the LA Clippers for Travis Outlaw and Steve Blake

3. New York gets Brian Cardinal from Minnesota for Darko Milicic

4. Cleveland gets Antawn Jamison and Sebastian Telfair from the LA Clippers and Washington. LA Clippers get Drew Gooden from Washington. Washington gets Zydrunas Ilgauskas, draft rights to Emir Preldzic and a 2010 1st rounder from Cleveland, as well as Al Thornton from the LA Clippers.

5. Chicago gets Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander from Milwaukee for John Salmons, 2011 and 2012 second round picks and option to switch 2010 1st round picks (with top-10 protection for Chicago)

6. Charlotte gets Theo Ratliff from San Antonio for a future second round pick.

7. Charlotte gets Tyrus Thomas from Chicago for Acie Law, Flip Murray and a future first round pick.

8.  Milwaukee gets Royal Ivey, Primoz Brezec and a 2010 second round pick from Philadelphia for Jodie Meeks and Francisco Elson.

9. Memphis gets Ronnie Brewer from Utah for a future 1st round pick.

10. Sacramento gets Dominic McGuire from Washington for a future second round pick.

11. Boston gets Nate Robinson and Marcus Landry from New York for J.R. Giddens, Eddie House, Bill Walker and a future conditional second round pick.

12. New York gets Tracy McGrady and Sergio Rodriguez from Houston and Sacramento. Sacramento gets Larry Hughes, Carl Landry and Joey Dorsey from New York and Houston. Houston gets Kevin Martin, Jared Jeffries, Jordan Hill, Hilton Armstrong, the right exchange 2011 1st round picks and a protected 2012 first round pick from New York and Sacramento.

And let's take a look at each team who partook of the trades.

Dallas nets Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and Deshawn Stevenson. Caron represents an upgrade in scoring talent from the enigma that is Josh Howard. He would be a nice 3rd wheel to Dirk and the Jet. Haywood finally becomes the low post presence Damp was inconsistently trying to be. Stevenson will be a defensive specialist ala Trenton Hassell / Greg Buckner. We'll see if this move makes Cuban's crew worthy challengers to the Lake Show.

Washington nets Josh Howard, Quinton Ross, James Singleton, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Al Thornton, draft picks and draft rights. You can blame Agent Zero for the quick implosion of the Wizards, which will be completed by the time Gilbert is jettisoned out. Foye and Howard represent some good talent now. Javale McGee and Andray Blatche will be your low post "threats" and if they do not get John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins would be an interesting alternative.

Portland nets Marcus Camby. Had to be done because you are asking too much from Juwan Howard to play 30++ as your starting big. This hopefully also frees up minutes for Jerryd Bayless with Andre Miller now starting. In addition, also frees up minutes to be divvied up between Nicolas Batum, Rudy Fernandez and Martell Webster once Brandon Roy is healthy again.

LA Clippers nets Steve Blake, Travis Outlaw and Drew Gooden. They officially are now in play for the 2010 sweepstakes. Only 4 Clippers are not free agents (Blake Griffin, Eric Gordon, Baron Davis and DeAndre Jordan). Outlaw serves as an upgrade over Thornton and will be a key component once he is healthy again. Jordan now steps in to play major minutes now with Marcus out of the way. The potential is there to be harnessed. GM Dunleavy has an idea on how to play this offseason.

New York nets Brian Cardinal, Eddie House, J.R. Giddens, Bill Walker, Tracy McGrady, Sergio Rodriguez and a draft pick. I shudder at the thought of the Knicks not getting anything out of this year's crop of free agents.

Minnesota nets Darko Milicic. After watching Lebron vs Melo on the front end of the TNT doubleheader, I remembered the All-Star game in Jerryworld and I remembered my tweet: 5 of the top 6 picks of the 2003 draft class were in it. Darko, welcome to the frozen tundra / barren wasteland.

Cleveland nets Antawn Jamison and Sebastian Telfair. I wonder what was Danny Ferry discussing / teaching Antawn and Bassy while watching Lebron pull out a 40+, 10+, 10+ game. Last time someone pulled out a 40-15-15 was Pistol Pete in 1974. Welcome to the all-or-nothing show feat. the Lebrons.

Chicago nets Hakim Warrick, Joe Alexander, Acie Law, Flip Murray and draft picks. Bulls are stuck in the middle of a middling group of teams that are in the playoff race while retaining cap flexibility. Hakim and Tyrus are kind of the same talent. They still might not be finished as they still have to figure things out with Hinrich.

Milwaukee nets John Salmons, Royal Ivey, Primoz Brezec and draft picks. They might finally have someone who can replace Michael Redd's numbers and minutes. Like the Bulls, they also might not be finished.

Charlotte nets Theo Ratliff and Tyrus Thomas. Larry Brown is going for the stretch run to get the 'Cats a playoff berth. Ratliff plays the right way and they can be patient with Tyrus given the depth of their bigs. Priority now will be getting DJ Augustine to "play the right way" and getting a little more guard help with Felton.

San Antonio nets a draft pick. Well, this move is for cap reasons and cap reasons only.

Philadelphia nets Francisco Elson, Jodie Meeks and draft picks. Considering the circumstances, they merely tweaked their mediocre lineup. They got talent, but they really need to figure out what to f'n do to Elton Brand. They need him to produce the way he did with the Clippers and not this pedestrian guy they are overpaying. One thing for sure, Sammy Dalembert is playing inspired ball right now (although I gotta admit, he's still overpaid).

Memphis nets Ronnie Brewer. Finally, a productive piece they can use for their bench. No team is as reliant on their best five than the Grizz (Conley, Mayo, Gay, Randolph, Gasol).

Utah nets a draft pick. See my comment on the Spurs. Besides, they love Wes Matthews, Ronnie Price and Sundiata right now. Oh, and they are definitely rooting for Knick failures. Imagine if John Wall goes to Utah. Or Evan Turner.

Sacramento nets Dominic Mcguire, Larry Hughes, Carl Landry and Joey Dorsey. Relatively surprised with them dealing K-Mart, but they apparently deem him as expendable with Tyreke. I think Carl Landry will be in way over his head with this deal, but the Kings need low post offensive threats and he is one of those. I still hope the Bear Jew gets more minutes now.

Houston nets Kevin Martin, Jordan Hill, Hilton Armstrong, Jared Jeffries and draft picks. Rick Adelman coached K-Mart in Sacramento. He knows what he will be getting from him. He will be great with them right now. Even better once Yao returns next season. Daryl Morey may have definitely has outsmarted two of the smart genius GMs in the NBA (Petrie / Walsh). They added size and another Battier-like player in Jeffries to boot. Now H-Town has three defensive options (Shane, Trevor and Jared) to sick on the likes of Kobe, Melo, Roy, Dirk, etc.

Boston nets Nate Robinson and Marcus Landry. Big D has said he is pretty disappointed that this is the only move they made. But considering what Jesus Shuttlesworth pull off against the Lake Show, maybe the right thing was not trading Walter Ray. Still, this team needs a shock in the system.

TWTWTNBA: Toying with the Trade Machine

Yes, I am toying with the ESPN Trade Machine. I may be delayed with the results, but here are certain combinations I toyed with. And I expect to get rebuttals from people who will say that this deal will not happen, because again, the odds these deals ever happen are slim to none.

1. Charlotte gets Tayshaun Prince and Chucky Atkins for DJ Augustine, DeSagana Diop and Acie Law IV. You know Larry Brown needs to get guys he knows to get these 'Cats ready for the stretch run. We know DJ is not really comfy with playing "the right way," so Chucky will serve as the veteran back-up to Ray Felton.

2. Phoenix gets Tayshaun Prince, Charlie Villanueva and Chris Wilcox for Amare Stoudemire and Earl Clark. If the Pistons really want to be competitive in the new East, if they can somehow get Amare, they might get a leg up. Earl Clark will be a good fill-in. Imagine what Charlie V can do with the SSOL. Tayshaun may be a better Shaun Marion.

3. Nuggets get Ben Gordon and Ben Wallace for JR Smith, Malik Allen and Johan Petro. If the Mavs made their move with Caron, why not the Nuggets with the new Microwave. Big man insurance with Big Ben will help solve bad depth in the frontcourt. Also jettisons their big headache in JR Smith.

4. Cleveland gets Monta Ellis, Anthony Morrow and CJ Watson for Delonte West, Daniel Gibson and Daniel Green. If the Cavs really want to lock up the title, A starting five of Mo Will, Monta, Lebron, Jamison and Shaq with a bench of Anthony Parker, Sideshow Bob and JJ Hickson would be good enough.

5. Detroit gets Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes and Nathan Jawai for Charlie Villanueva, Jason Maxiell and Kwame Brown.  Al is a 20-10 guy. They can just pull that off. An Al-Stuck-Tayshaun-Rip-Gomes would work.

6. Three-team deal: Lakers gets Luke Ridnour and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Milwaukee gets Luke Walton, Kelenna Azubuike and CJ Watson, Warriors get Sasha Vujacic. The Lake Show gets a back-up PG in Ridnour and a quality home product in Mbah a Moute. Bucks now turn it over to Brandon Jennings. Who knows what Nellieball can do for the Machine.

7. New Jersey gets Rodney Stuckey, Charlie Villanueva and Jason Maxiell for Josh Boone, Devin Harris and Yi Jianlian. End the Stuckey experiment and go with the now with Devin Harris. with the state of Detroit as it is, Yi might be able to get the China factor into play.

8. Wizards get Tracy McGrady for Gilbert Arenas, Francisco Oberto and Al Thornton. Houston has been getting by without a stud, so nothing will change with Agent Zero suspended this year, but adding a big in Oberto and another forward insurance with Thornton would help Houston go up in rank.

9. Miami gets Raja Bell and Anthony Morrow for James Jones and Daequan Cook. They get a shooter and a veteran and at the same time, both Bell's and Morrow's contracts expire at the end of the season, leaving the Heat with only ONE player locked up for next year (Beasley).

10. Three-team deal. Lakers gets Kirk Hinrich and Jared Jeffries. Knicks get Adam Morrison, Jerome James and Tyrus Thomas. Bulls gets Sasha Vujacic, Luke Walton and Cuttino Mobley. More expiring contracts for the Knicks, Bulls get rid of Tyrus (and at the end of the season, Vinny del Negro). and the Lakers probably lock up another ring for Kobe.

Blog Outsourcing 2/15

Well, welcome to the post-Valentine edition of TMA. Also known as the post-All Star Weekend. About time to do an All-Star Weekend assessment.

Well, the game was what you can say was much better than the Saturday Night.

Saturday was pretty much, blah. The dunk contest is an absolute disappointment. The three-point shootout was a surprise. Skills is what it was and H.O.R.S.E. was going to be good, but the provider at home decided to cut it short due to scheduled programming.

Good thing, the game made up for it. Especially the halftime portion.

Time for the links:

Your game recap.

Let's see what the Cowboys could do to top this.

Update with the trade.

You know one thing needed to happen for the floodgates to possibly open. Well, with Caron moving, it has started.

According to John, Paul Pierce is the greatest thing since sliced bread.

He still won, but with a so-so performance.

Future is now for him. He rules H.O.R.S.E.

One month before the Event. Another good Filipino makes his move.

Jamie McMurray fans can celebrate.

Cycledan would be disappointed with this news.

Looks good for Vonn.

Video Daily Double (the halftime edition):

One-half of the NBA halftime:

And this is the other half:

Thank you, Wright Thompson

The rest of the article is in here, but here is the first paragraph of a great read on ESPN.com.

The soul of New Orleans is in a trumpet and a low-ceilinged bar. It's in the free red beans in the back. It's in the art hanging near the food that has two dogs howling at a New Orleans Saints moon. It's in the voice of Kermit Ruffins, two hours into his standing Thursday night gig at a packed club hidden in the neighborhood behind the French Quarter, the place weathered and peeling like the side of a workingman's boat.

He plays a song he wrote, "All I Want for Christmas Is the Saints in the Super Bowl," and the crowd dances and sings all the words. When he takes a break, he calls me in closer. There's something he wants to show me. He undoes his thin black tie, and the top two buttons, then pulls both his collared shirt and T-shirt down just enough so I can see. I notice the top point first, and slowly, the entire tattoo comes into view, a month old, enormous, covering his entire chest. I start laughing, and so does he. A symbol of the city adorned with a symbol of the city. Kermit Ruffins has gotten an enormous fleur-de-lis, the Saints' helmet logo, tattooed on his chest.

"Only in New Orleans," he says, winking. "I'm killing 'em when I take off my shirt at the beach. Especially at the Super Bowl."

 Reading this brought a tear to my eye. Back then, and now, in the midst of a backdrop of a New Orleans Super Bowl title.

Blog Outsourcing - 2/8/10

Yes, you are the champs!"

Congratulations, New Orleans! You did it. You have finally won it. The 9th team to win it in its first try. After all you have been through, you deserve it.

I actually missed out on the first half and halftime show. And as you all know, the Philippines does not get to see the Super Bowl commercials. Thank God for the gift of Youtube! for me to catch up. Blame it on a good time last night. I enjoyed it, maybe too much. While you guys get the CBS treatment, we here get the world feed feat. Bob Papa and Joe Theismann.

However, the 2nd half was great. Seeing two teams go at it mano-a-mano, capping off with the Tracy Porter pick 6.



And so, with that, let the link love commence.



Your mandatory Super Bowl recap.

The Onside Kickoff heard round the world. First one recovered by the kicking team outside of the 4th quarter in Super Bowl history.

Who is Tracy Porter? And what's with his hair?

In Haiti, Pierre Garcon will be a cheered by his fans wearing their shirts.

Twas quite a Brees, eh? What about Manning?

You could have had him, Jerry Jones. You could have had him.

In other news:

Johnny hates Jazz sports.

The Celtics are in deep doo-doo.

Not much news, because it is, after all, the Super Bowl.

Here's a parting picture to savor the moment.

*Thanks to the Times-Picayune for the pictures*

Surpassing the Logo

Kobe just passed by Jerry West as the all-time leading scorer of the Minneapolis / Los Angeles Lakers. Although the Lake Show lost by two, Kobe scored 44 and was a Ron Artest miss from winning the game.

He did say, that if his body would allow it, he might be able to have a crack at the hallowed mark of Kareem.

Blog Outsourcing - 2/1/10

Welcome to the first TMA of February. In days, it will be Single Awareness Day all over again for all unattached people everywhere.

I need a date. I need love. I need eternal happiness and bliss. At least all of you have a lovelife. I don't. What should I do?

Maybe I should do the ff:

1. Shape up.
2. Save.
3. Be true to myself.
4. Act like I was already worked on by the Queer Eye folks.

Anything else? Maybe Trey's advise as seen in previous posts would be a great suggestion for all desperate single guys and ladies out there.

***

Oh, I was at my sister's debut the other day. She looked like an absolute pink princess. Looking back, I felt that I should be able to be more of a responsible bro and be more of service. Also realized that man, I look so dated at my pictures. I also thought about my dad, who wanted this to happen for her. Man, time has passed. Anyway, stop being mushy.

Time for Link love:

Grade III Sprain = Torn Ligaments. Will you play, Dwight Freeney?

Will Bobby Hebert outdress Lady Gaga?

Rex always finds a way to get attention. He always does, patphish? Where was he? He was here.

Your mandatory Pro Bowl Update.
Maybe positive things in the future of H-Town.

Feel free to castigate the choices of the 00's All-Decade Team.

Ok, who wants Julius Peppers should raise their hands.

Bad juju for Nawlins? Maybe good juju for Chauncey.

Today is Lakers stole Pau Gasol day. To celebrate, they kept the C's struggling. Coming soon. JP toys with the Trade Machine.

John Lithgow vs Ron Jeremy in the All-Star Game.

Kevin Durant is awesome.

The Maple Leafs made their move. Let's see if it pays off.

NHL can't get a break with scheduling. Stanley Cup rematch gets buried on Pro Bowl Sunday, Grammys, and Boston-LA. Penguins have not lost on shootouts.

Miz > Trey. Unfortunately, no jorts on the line.

Not good news for GITC. And Carolina's struggles continue.

And the Fed Express continues. He's ahead of Tiger now.

Coming soon on May Day. But he still takes potshots at my boy. He is just envious that the writers love my boy. Ok. You win your match. We win ours then we talk. Deal?

Futbol update: Man U chasing Chelsea. Plus, I wonder what African officials would do if they were shot at by militants like the Togolese endured.

Video links. Grammy winners all.

Kings of Leon:


Taylor Swift:

Who are my All-Star Reseves

Well, like I promised last time, here are my All-Star reserves...

Picking the reserves will be this simple: 7 players will be selected, with 5 position players (2 guards, 2 forwards and a center) and 2 wildcards. You can be creative with the position designates (but it has to be feasible).

So who are they:

East: Starters (Iverson, Wade, James, Garnett, Howard)

Guards: Rajon Rondo and Joe Johnson. I really believe Rajon will be one who could pull off a quad-double. Joe Johnson has been Mr. Consistent for the Hawks.

Forwards: Gerald Wallace and Paul Pierce. Crash has earned his spot, with Charlotte in the inside track of the playoff chase. John approves of Paul Pierce getting in.

Center: Chris Bosh. If KG decides to rest instead of playing in Dallas, the Texan native is the odds-on favorite to replace him in the starting 5.

Wildcards: Josh Smith and Mo Williams. J-Smooth really improved and deserves a selection. Yes, Mo Will is going to be out, but he deserves selection as Lebron's #2. Then you can replace him with a big man (considering the team only has 2 center-eligibles).

Missin' the cut: Derrick Rose, Antawn Jamison, David Lee, Andrew Bogut, Ray Allen, Joakim Noah, Al Horford, Jamal Crawford, Stephen Jackson, Danny Granger

West: Starters (Nash, Bryant, Anthony, Duncan, Stoudemire)

Guards: Chris Paul and Deron Williams. Finally, both guards Atlanta eschewed to get Marvin Williams are in the weekend spectacle simultaneously.

Forwards: Kevin Durant and Dirk Nowitzki. Easiest position to select, because these two are slam dunk selections. Dirk as a hometown choice, and because we cannot ignore the Durantula anymore.

Center: Zach Randolph. Who knew? A trade afterthought actually panning out for the Grizzlies. One game out of 4th place in the West. Yes, Memphis.

Wildcards: Brandon Roy and Pau Gasol. Two really great players with injury issues. Their team's record speaks for themselves (especially Portland, whose MVP is their training and medical staff)

Missin' the Cut: Chris Kaman, Chauncey Billups, Jason Kidd, Carlos Boozer, Monta Ellis, Tyreke Evans, LaMarcus Aldridge, Aaron Brooks, Carl Landry

Interesting to note that 15 of 16 playoff teams (if it started today, have at least one representative) Bulls have no representative in the ASG, based on my choices.

Now what are your choices, then? Have a hack at it.

***

Meanwhile, the league has given the length of the suspension to both Javaris and Gilbert. What's the next move? Thinking about the scenario now, Will the new ownership eat the worst contract in the NBA? Because who in their right mind will trade for Gilbert? If the buyout happens, this would be another piece of an interesting offseason to come. Your move, Ernie. For Javaris, he really needs a change of scenery.  Would have liked his hometown team (Atlanta) to take a chance, but they are loaded in the backcourt (unless Joe Johnson leaves).

The Hopes of Britannia lies with him

He aims to be the first British winner of the Aussie Open since 1934. Congratulations, Andy.

(h/t David Gray of Reuters via The Guardian)

Kudos, though to Marin Cilic. He almost became the second man to make it to the Aussie Open final while surviving 3 matches that went the whole way. He played 21 hours of tennis time. Incredible.

Blog Outsourcing - 1/25/10

Welcome to the last Monday of January. Has it been that fast already that it is almost February? Yes, time flies fast when you want it to be.

I am happy with how things are going with regards to Haiti relief. Apparently, people have learned from the Katrina experience and decided to ensure help is on the way. I presume you all watched the telethon a few days ago. Efforts are still ongoing. The islands lost a few lives there, but help is on the way. It's not much, but we know the feeling, so we know what is needed.



Hope you enjoy the tunes in this playlist.

As such, here are the links:

And the Saints go marching in.

Redemption for a kicker. In a year where kicker's gaffes are the norm.

Drew Brees is awesome.

Hoping we do NOT have another Rachel Nichols stalking moment with Favre.

Another new chapter to the Purple Fail. And that does not include the Prince ode to the Purple and Gold.

Meanwhile, Kwsn prevails over Patphish. Come to think of it, Kwsn will win in the Super Bowl whether Colts or Saints win. Will probably relish a Brees vs Painter match-up, no matter how unlikely that happens.

And so, we will miss his loquaciousness.

Ok, better honorary captain: Edge or Deuce?

Here is a way-too-early preview of the Super Bowl.

This is for Jen and all feminists everywhere.

There was an obliteration in MSG and revenge 4 years too late?

Not much news, but all eyes after all were in Indy and Nawlins.

Before I go, get well soon to the Hawaiian Punch.

Video fest: The Saints are coming!


Time to stand up and get crunk!

Blog Outsourcing 1/18

Happy Martin Luther King Day to you! Today is an important day on American soil. I am sure you have you moments, to which you can freely share here. Maybe Cycledan or Cabbage or Patphish can share first-person anecdotes, eh?

But seriously, I am sure the best way to honor him is to serve the human person. Serve those who need it more than you. I appreciate all the help you guys pitched in when my fellow countrymen were in need late last year. I am sure those affected value your assistance in any way possible.

Now, a country needs your help. Go out and make a difference. It will be hard to expect you going to Port-au-Prince, but there are other ways.

Network for Good. Google. You know what to do.

Now link-love time...

Favre Favre Favre Favre. Favre Favre Favre.....

Whining about running up the score was a college thing? Keith Brooking can't handle the truth.

Good news for Wade Phillips fans. I wonder how many are there...

Obligatory J-E-T-S! JETS! JETS! JETS! link coming up. Patphish entering comments in 3... 2.... 1...

Mark Sanchez's dad does make a difference.

Quo Vadis, LT?

Take your time, Kurt.

It has been an ugly year for kickers. At least good news for someone Sparty likes.

Early NFC Super Bowl play-in preview. Here is the AFC Super Bowl play-in.

RIP Gaines Adams. Unfortunately, you cannot escape the bust clause. Bears can't get a break as well.

Status quo with ChiSox? Dodgers, too.

Could it be Roid Rage for Jose Offerman? Umpires scared off....

Jerry Stackhouse is back. However, John might want to give up his knee for Paul Pierce to use.

Futbol update: Bad news for Sam's Army.

Sundiata...

Video-love:
Just fit for today.


Pardon because it is done in the native tongue of my motherland, but it is a message that we, as a nation want to express and send to the Haitian nation.

Blog Outsourcing 1/11

Hello to TMA Nation!

I am pissed with Floyd Mayweather. I am really pissed that the fight will not go on. I am definitely not pleased with his antics (who has not?), but sometimes, you need common sense. Simmons has always been a proponent of the VP of Common Sense. Apparently, Floyd needs one. He needs Manny more than Manny needs him. Yes, the greatest Asian fighter in history would be better against him, but he has alternative options.

Oh, and here are some ways of improving the Clippers via the Fabled Trade Machine. I also know the chances a trade like this would happen is slim to none.

1. Getting Jared Jeffries for Al Thornton, Ricky Davis and Kareem Rush
2. Getting a healthy Francisco Garcia and the carcass of Sean May for the same three players.
3. Getting DeShawn Stevenson and Nick Young or Javaris Crittenton for the same 3 players.
4. Getting Luol Deng for Ricky Davis, Al Thornton, Mardy Collins, Sebastian Telfair, Steve Novak, Brian Skinner, Kareem Rush
5. Getting Kevin Martin for Mardy Collins, Ricky Davis, Al Thornton, Kareem Rush, Steve Novak
6. Getting Terence Williams and CD-R or Courtney Lee for Al Thornton and Kareem Rush
7. Getting Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams for Thornton, Steve Novak, Sebastian Telfair and Kareem Rush
8. Getting Marc Gasol, Rudy Gay, Lester Hudson and Sam Young for Marcus Camby and Al Thornton
9. Getting Raja Bell for Ricky Davis and Mardy Collins
10. Getting Charlie Bell and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute for Mardy Collins and Al Thornton.

And so, we commence the links,  which you like more than what I write about.

There will be a PacMan vs Mayweather match on March 13. Just not what you had initially thought.

And so the LA demigod has decided to leave the comfy heavens of the Coliseum for the dreary Qwest. And sorry USC, Mike Riley is pretty happy in Corvallis.

Is Miz ok? we haven't heard from him. After all, the Vols did shock the world with the classic "chemistry" cliche. Maybe the Jayhawks should be shooting more instead.

I hope you were able to watch SNL. I wonder when will that reach the shores of the islands.

Really, the Cincinnati Reds get this guy? There may be hope at the Great American Launching Pad. On the other hand, things are not well in Red Sox Nation.

Is it really that important for you to have your team's cap on a bust?

Career numbers for Vlad at the Ballpark in Arlington: .394, 14 HR, 33 RBIs, 24 walks, 193 at-bats. Looks like a Bobby Abreu-like deal.

Wizards erase all traces of the Agent Zero era. Well, not all of it, though.

Good news, Sparty. One of your peeps scored the 10-M point of the NBA.

The delay with his return is probably because he wants to ensure he can handle the punch to the throat.

There were brawls, and then there was this Youtube of course, has it covered. Pardon the language barrier.

UGA is trying to pirate back one of their own at Saban's expense? Your thoughts, HuskerDawg and Cabbage?

I'll believe it when I'll see it, Mr. Tuberville. The Air Raid is a fascinating thing. Still think Ruffin McNeill is the best fit for the program.

Golf: Freddie Couples in the Champions Tour? Repeat winner in Kapalua. But since Tiger's not around, we will not really care.

Futbol alert: If you think violence in your side of the woods is serious. It's nothing compared to what went on in the African Cup of Nations.

Welcome to the shootout at Glendale. Their prize: another shootout, this time in the Bayou. Care to set an over/under for this game?

Kurt Warner, take your time. But if it is the end, nice parting gift. 5 TDs > 4 incompletions. Makes you wonder what happened in New York back then.

On the other hand, The Ravens-Patriots game can be compared to what Ricky Hatton felt when he faced the PacMan. Now they get another shot at Indy.

Here is a quickie preview for next week.

Videos: This week is a tribute to Lebron James.




Allow me one final poke at Floyd (pick one from here):

You Play to Win the Game. Hellloooooo!!!!

Thanks to Sparty for this video goodness. Playoffs?

Creating an All-2000s NBA roster (West)

One of the reasons it took me a while before the TWTWTNBA got posted was trying to figure out what to post. As such, since it was the end of a decade, I decided to construct a team from this past decade (00-09).

Here are the rules.

Encompasses all players who started their rookie year in the 2000-01 season onwards. This means, as much as John wants to put Paul Pierce in all 15 slots (yes, I included the inactives), I cannot do that (FYI, The Truth was Batch 98.).

I also selected a particular season for each player.

Coaches were qualified based on their first gig being from 2000 onwards (No Phil Jackson or Pop. D'Antoni was almost there, but he started in 1999)

1st Team West:
G - Chris Paul (07-08), Deron Williams (07-08),
F - Kevin Durant (09-10), Carmelo Anthony (09-10)
C - Pau Gasol (08-09)

Bench:
G - Tony Parker (06-07), Brandon Roy (09-10), Manu Ginobili (07-08)
F - Andrei Kirilenko (03-04), Al Jefferson (08-09), Amare Stoudemire (07-08)
C - Yao Ming (07-08)

Inactives:
Chris Kaman (09-10), Carlos Boozer (07-08), Kevin Martin (08-09)

Coach: Nate McMillan

Looking at the Roster: Solid Team built on the halfcourt set. Whether it is Pick and Roll or DDR or normal halfcourt sets that you always see, they have the tools necessary. They also have a huge depth in big men. You can pound it in all the time and let the bigs eat the opposition alive.

2nd Team West:
G - Monta Ellis (07-08), Tyreke Evans (09-10)
F - Stephen Jackson (07-08), David West (08-09)
C - LaMarcus Aldridge (09-10)

Bench:
G - Jason Richardson (05-06), Russell Westbrook (09-10), OJ Mayo (09-10)
F - Josh Howard (07-08), Rudy Gay (09-10)
C - Mehmet Okur (05-06), Marc Gasol (09-10)

Inactives:
Paul Millsap (08-09), Zach Randolph (08-09), Leandro Barbosa (06-07)

Coach: Scott Brooks

Looking at the Roster: I chose Scott Brooks because he is able to work with the Core in Oklahoma City, given the relative youth of the lineup. Lionel Hollins would be an alternative, considering the some of the core Grizzlies are present. This team is geared towards a high-octane fastbreaking offense ala SSOL.

Creating an All-2000s NBA roster (East)

One of the reasons it took me a while before the TWTWTNBA got posted was trying to figure out what to post. As such, since it was the end of a decade, I decided to construct a team from this past decade (00-09).

Here are the rules.

Player pool encompasses all players who started their rookie year in the 2000-01 season onwards. This means, as much as John wants to put Paul Pierce in all 15 slots (yes, I included the inactive roster), I cannot do that as, The Truth was from Batch 98.

I also selected a particular season for each player.

Coaches were qualified based on their first gig being from 2000 onwards (No Phil Jackson or Pop. D'Antoni almost made it, but he started in 1999)

1st Team East:
G - Dwayne Wade (08-09), Derrick Rose (08-09)
F - Lebron James (08-09), Danny Granger (08-09)
C - Dwight Howard (08-09)

Bench:
G - Joe Johnson (07-08), Michael Redd (05-06), Gilbert Arenas (05-06)
F - Caron Butler (07-08), Gerald Wallace (09-10), Josh Smith (09-10)
C - Chris Bosh (09-10)

Inactives:
Mo Williams (08-09), Andre Iguodala (08-09), Emeka Okafor (06-07)

Coach: Doc Rivers

Looking at the roster: This team is built for the freewheeling transition game. Easy buckets. They don't have size, but they have athleticism. Their bigs probably have one objective: to get the boards and solidify the low post. They also have licensed shooters (pun intended in Gilbert's case) off the bench. Lebron and Rose will be the primary ball handlers.

2nd Team East:
G - Rajon Rondo (09-10), Devin Harris (08-09),
F - Hedo Turkoglu (08-09), Tayshaun Prince (08-09)
C - David Lee (09-10)

Bench:
G - Ben Gordon (06-07), Brandon Jennings (09-10), Jameer Nelson (08-09)
F - Kenyon Martin (03-04), Richard Jefferson (05-06)
C - Joakim Noah (09-10), Brook Lopez (09-10),

Inactives:
Luol Deng (06-07), Anderson Varejao (09-10), Troy Murphy (08-09)

Coach: Lawrence Frank

Looking at the Roster: The DDR offense might be the best applicable offense, given the skill set. Considering the number of Nets in the lineup, must be a good fit to have the former Nets coach handle the reins.

Blog Outsourcing 1/4

I hope you had a blessed New Year weekend. It's back to normalcy. It's back to work. It's back to the dullness. Back to the lemming syndrome most of the world has to deal with. I myself will be at the office tonight (today for you guys)

So how can you cure that? Here are some good ideas.

1. Volunteer.  There are good organizations out there that would benefit well from what you do best. You can even donate. The world would be a better place. Whether donating cash or spending time or even donating blood.
2. Exercise. Do I have to explain after eating a roasted pig, pizza, pasta and ham during the past two weeks?
3. Partake of Local Culture.  Of course, there's more to learn about your own.

As such, since Fantasy Football season is now officially over for the regular season, are we going to have a Playoff pick 'em or challenge? I wish I could be competitive there.

Btw, NFL Films says these games were the best of the 2009 regular season: Pittsburgh - Minnesota (Favre's first loss this season), Indianapolis - New England (4th and 2), Detroit - Cleveland (Stafford game winner), New Orleans - Washington (Suisham miss), Green Bay - Pittsburgh (Mike Wallace and 60 minutes)

Fantasy Update:

S&F League: Sparty wins over JDS, 165-140. Favre and Long finishes 3rd, 175-145. I win my matchup, 165-133.
M&F League: Patphish wins a close one over Sae, 185-181. Mikey whooped GITC, 157-97. I merely tied TONS at 161.
Pick 'Em: Tila Tequila Ate My Balls wins by 2 over Futbol Pick.... Just happy to finish 8th, because someone forgot to put his picks in *ahem*Big D*ahem*
Eliminator: I ended like the Indianapolis Colts, missing on my last two picks (Thanks, Tampa Bay and Cleveland). However, Rek was able to fish a tie with 15. He actually had the chance to end up with a higher score, but he would blame Brandon Marshall and Josh McDaniels.
Bowl Mania: Let's put it this way: the highest Max score belongs to C. Hirsch with 381. Patphish is close with 377. Johnny has 375. Kwsn and Jen also have a higher Max Score than the current leader.
Time to do the link love:

Just like last week the Manning Family lost. Archie's Saints, Peyton's Colts, and Eli's Giants.

Goodell thinks tanking is not good, so he is looking for a solution.

Giants Stadium gets a proper farewell.

At least, the Boy named Suh won't have to move far from the fields of Lincoln. The St. Louis Rams are now on the clock.

Perfect symmetry: Broncos start 6-0, finish 8-8. Titans start 0-6, finish 8-8. And they both have 2k rushers in their franchise history.

He might be the next victim of the Madden Curse.

By the way, today is Black Monday. We already know a dead man walking. But one is safe (Houston), another looks safe (Carolina) and another might have an argument (Cleveland).  And of course, there is that chin being sneaky.

This Bill Polian's argument for what they did. Julian Edelman better get ready to catch a lot of balls.

You would think he would be signed by the Hoodie for next year.

We here gets lots of cases regarding firecrackers. Never knew it could happen on your side of coast.

A scathing criticism of the handling by the WWWL on the Texas Tech crisis. By the way, they should be rehiring McNeill ala the Bill Stewart route and consider what the Texas Tech administration are doing as window dressing.

GatorTrey must be loving this. Oh, and Pat White's ok. You can breathe now. I just want to commend the sportsmanship of the Steelers during that whole process. But you're losing an awesome corner.

Unfortunately, it was not because of a punch to the throat.

Why so serious, Gilbert? Oh, and his Twitter is a must-read the way the Starbury videostream was a must-see.

Are you ready for the Monday Night Wars (Redux)?

A crushed throat will not deter him. Kudos to the Senior Bowl peeps.

The punishment may be just, but the postseason ban might be too much and it is unfair to the student-athlete.

He brings in the money when he boxes, but he does not when he acts. You get the idea? (UPDATE: this contains updated numbers) Just for your reference: PhP 46.03 = $1.

The idea is nice, kudos to Wake and Xavier.

And I still believe they will get it on. Too much riding on it.

Futbol update: Man U gets ejected from the FA Cup.

Video time:

Dedicated to WildCard Weekend (Because all games will be rematches, 3 of them from yesterday)

Blog Outsourcing 12/28

Hello all. I make my Monday return. Last week, I felt really lethargic and it showed until Sparty made the save. Thanks, Sparty. I needed a little pep talk, and I got it, and I thank Sparty for that.

I have had a long 2009, for me, where I live, and for the world in general. One simple thing I want to say, I just want to get 2009 out of my system. But one thing for sure, being officially part of the Sparty & Friends family is one of the highlights. Now onto to the meat.

Fantasy Update: Pending the MNF Game.

Sparty & Friends League: SMTT leading by 4 over JDS. On my end, ALAC leading Hawk 94-70.

Mikey & Friends League: Pat leading Sae 114-98. On my end, ALAC trailing TONS 89-76.

Pick 'Em: Tila Tequila Ate My Balls with a 2-pt lead over Futbol Pick, Where's ManU. On my end, I'm 9th, one pt behind Hawkeye.

Eliminator: I hate you, Tampa Bay. I hate you. Same hate applies to Garrett Hartley.

College Bowl Mania: Let's just say that Johnny, Sae and Rek have the most PPR and the highest Max available belong to Johnny and Rek.

Before I provide the links, here is your mandatory volcanic coverage. Again, I am safe and sound. The volcano is far far away from the place.



Link love:

So, Urban pulled a Donovan. Yes, I think he will be back for Year 1 of the A.T. (After Tebow) Era.

If you miss the no mercy nature of your opponent, go to global hockey.

Saints lost again. Must be bad juju from Tom Benson. Then again, bad juju for the Manning family today. Archie's Saints, Peyton's Colts and Eli's Giants all lost.

Will you vote for Andre Dawson?

Bengals finally win the North. Their reward is a simple flex. Maybe this would be a better farewell to Giants Stadium.

This looks dated, but these happened @ Giants Stadium, considering what happened yesterday will not be counted.

Futbol Update: I missed doing this on my posts. Meanwhile, the other team in Manchester gets a nice win.

While waiting for the Team of the Decade posts of Sparty, do you argue that they are absolute busts?

Case in point why the Bowl System is needed.

You would think they are succeeding, but they just got shut out by a team that is also struggling. Plus when your big buy this year mouths off, you know the end of the Zorn era is near.

I find this map very interesting in trying to track golf.

What if Hendrick Motorsports offered to work on Santa's sleigh?

Yes, I know Paul Pierce is out, but I need to express glee as the Clippers eke one out. Bingo!

Video Slots:
Loving dedicated to (traditionally) the Dallas Cowboys.


I am sure we can all relate to this question:

The Week That Was The NBA a.k.a - TWTWTNBA - December 16

Because of what someone wrote, I decided to make an emergency post instead of what I had in mind for this week. Since I had time (when I would have wanted to be in a conference call that unfortunately I had to miss when I would have preferred not to), I ought to write my own views on this. So let's start.

1. I agree that it will take a miracle for the G-Men to advance. A lot of dominoes have to fall in place, but they need to start to win out first, starting with the Redskins. As for the Spartans, at least it is the college basketball season.

2. The NBA has the least parity. But as long as the bellwether teams are doing mostly alright, things will be fine.

3. As a Clipper fan, I am partially a bit pleased with the T'wolves state of mind. I just need them to keep that up until the time when we have a chance at snagging the top overall pick they might get.

4. This is the complete list of free agents this summer. They key is what will be the cap space for 2010. It is said to be projected at between $50-53 million.

5. Lebron: Let's see what the Nyets can do. And of course, the Knicks. All we know is that he pays homage to Akron, not Cleveland. I would think he would test the market before he responds. He has never been highly recruited, so this is like a first for him.

6. Wade: I think he stays, but the pull of Chi-town is interesting. In addition, the Bulls have a plethora of assets they can move.

7. Amare: He is a huge risky target, with his recent injury-prone tendencies. I still have issues with their penny-pinching owner.

8. Dirk: No way he leaves. There is a reason why the Mavs are constructed the way they are. Besides, the shock it would bring would be like what this is.

9. Jesus Shuttlesworth: Veteran shooter with a ring. I am sure a lot of teams with space for an MLE or a smart winning team with a veteran's minimum would love to have him around.

10. Tyson Chandler: One thing I know is that if you have a modicum of talent and you are 7'0", you will get paid. Ask Jerome James and DeSagana Diop.

11. Manu: the so-called Bat-killer is not going anywhere. He owes it too much to the Spurs. Reduced salary will help this team rebuild on the fly as the transition of the post-Duncan era continues in its natural pace.

12. RJeff: The interesting thing is, the Spurs have not been the type of team to overspend to keep guys. Pop and Buford sure know what they are doing.

13. Joe Johnson: You better hope J-Smooth, Marvin, Al and Mike find a way to convince him to stay. But they thought of plan B (trading for Jamal Crawford) already in case he leaves. I know going from JJ to Crawford is huge, but that ownership is questionable.

14. T-Mac: This season is a tryout open for everyone to see what he can still pull off. Same for the Answer.

15. Yao: It is unlikely he leaves. There is too much going on. Not his style also.

16. Redd: The successor to Walter Ray in Milwaukee is in the same situation as he is.

17. CB4: I agree, he is the major chip that will likely move. Depends on who offers the most.

18. Amongst the second-tier players mentioned, J-Smooth is locked in the ATL for a while.

19. Again, it is all about the cap space and what the guys do early. I won't be surprised if it will be a thud, but I won't dismiss it that easy.

20. John Wall to the Nyets is nice. Hmmm...

Myself as a NFL Pro Bowl selector (defense / special teams)

It is about that time of year that the ProBowl roster for the NFL will be named. Here are probably the most deserving ones, based on performance. (and possibly reputation)

I selected these people before Week 14 Sunday games and after the Thursday debacle in Cleveland (for Steeler fans). And these were on the ballot during that day. You may freely argue with me over the selections.

And so, here we go:

On the Defensive side of the ball!

select 1 SS

NFC:

Adrian Wilson (Arizona)

AFC:

Brian Dawkins (Denver)

select 3 CB

NFC:

Asante Samuel (Philadelphia)
Charles Woodson (Green Bay)
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Arizona)

AFC:

Champ Bailey (Denver)
Darrelle Revis (New York)
Nnamdi Asomugha (Oakland)

select 3 DE

NFC:

Jared Allen (Minnesota)
Justin Tuck (New York)
Will Smith (New Orleans)

AFC:

Dwight Freeney (Indianapolis)
Mario Williams (Houston)
Robert Geathers (Cincinnati)


select 3 DT

NFC:

Albert Haynesworth (Washington)
Kevin Williams (Minnesota)
Pat Williams (Minnesota)

AFC:

Haloti Ngata (Baltimore)
Marcus Stroud (Buffalo)
Vince Wilfork (New England)

select 1 FS

NFC:

Darren Sharper (New Orleans)


AFC:

Ed Reed (Baltimore)

select 2 ILB

NFC:

A.J. Hawk (Green Bay)
Karlos Dansby (Arizona)

AFC:

Bart Scott (New York)
Ray Lewis (Baltimore)

select 3 OLB

NFC:

Chad Greenway (Minnesota)
DeMarcus Ware (Dallas)
Lance Briggs (Chicago)

AFC:

Brian Cushing (Houston)
James Harrison (Pittsburgh)
Rey Maualuga (Cincinnati)


select 1 KR

NFC:

Percy Harvin (Minnesota)

AFC:

Joshua Cribbs (Cleveland)

select 1 K

NFC:

Neil Rackers (Arizona)

AFC:

Rob Bironas (Tennessee)

select 1 P

NFC:

Brad Maynard (Chicago)

AFC:

Shane Lechler (Oakland)


select 1 ST

NFC:

Sean Morey (Arizona)

AFC:

Kassim Osgood (San Diego)

Observations:

1. Not much from Pittsburgh and New England. Obviously, both teams have had issues on that side of the ball.
2. Ridiculous depth in the AFC corners.
3. May be shooting blind regarding the front 7. Hope I got it right.