08-09 Davkar Predictions Topic

zizzo24
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Below is our 21st seasonal Davkar League Predictions. Players ratings are explained below. As always I projected the percentage of minutes each player will play for every team. This has a direct effect on the adjusted ratings. It's still going to take a few seconds for the data to load. I tried to make everything as readable as I could. I'll try and get the write-ups done this coming week. ENJOY!
4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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2008-09 Team Rankings

OVERALL RANKIS A COMBINATION OF THE OTHER 8 RATINGS.
TEAM SALARYIS THE COMBINATION OF ALL 12 PLAYERS WIS SALARY FOR THE 08-09 SEASON.
AVERAGE RATINGIS THE AVERAGE RATING OF ALL THE DIFFERENT CATEGORIES/FORMULAS I USE
TEAM RATINGIS BASED ON A 100 POINT SCALE. EACH TEAMS TOTAL POINTS, FGM, FG%, 3PM, 3PT%, FTM, FT%, OREB, DREB, STL, AST, AST/TO, TO, BLK, PF, DEF RATING, AND SALARY IS TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT AND AWARDED A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF POINTS AS COMPARED TO ALL OTHER TEAMS.
PER 100IS CALCULATED FROM THE TOTAL OF EACH INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS POINTS, FGM, FG%, 3PM, 3PT%, FTA, FT%, OREB, DREB, STL, AST, AST/TO, TO, BLK, PF, DEF RATING, AND SALARY COMPARING THEM TO A HIGHLY UNREACHABLE STANDARD VALUE AND THEN EQUATING THE TOTALS FOR ALL CATEGORIES TO A 100 POINT SCALE.
ADJ/100IS CALCULATED THE SAME WAY AS DESCRIBED IN THE "PER 100" CATEGORY EXCEPT ONLY USING THE INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS THAT ARE PROJECTED TO PLAY THE MAJORITY OF THE REGULAR SEASON MINUTES FOR EACH TEAM
ALL PLAYER RATINGIS CALCULATED BY ADDING THE TOTAL OF EACH INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS POINTS, FGM, FG%, 3PM, 3PT%, FTM, FT%, OREB, DREB, STL, AST, AST/TO, TO, BLK, PF, DEF RATING, AND SALARY BASED ON A CERTAIN POINT SCALE AND MULTIPLING THAT TOTAL BY THE ESTIMATED PERCENTAGE OF PLAYING TIME THAT PLAYER WILL RECEIVE FOR THE SEASON.
ADJUSTED PLAYER RATINGIS CALCULATED THE SAME WAY AS DESCRIBED IN THE "PLAYER RATING" CATEGORY HOWEVER SINCE MOST TEAMS HAVE MORE MINUTES THAN CAN BE USED DURING THE COURSE OF THE SEASON EACH PLAYERS MINUTES ARE ESTIMATED BASED ON POTENTIAL PLAYING TIME AND THEN ADDED TOGETHER. FOR THE TEAMS WITH A SHORTAGE OF MINUTES A PENALTY IS ACCESSED TO ANY PLAYERS THAT HAVE TO PLAY MORE THAN 101.5% OF THEIR RL MINUTES.
$/TEAM MINUTESIS THE TOTAL TEAM WIS SALARY OF ALL 12 PLAYERS DIVIDED BY THEIR TOTAL MINUTES.
4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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POS - Players Positions Rated at 100%
M/82 - Average Minutes per 82 Games Played
P/82 - Average Points per 82 Games Played
R/82 - Average Rebounds per 82 Games Played
A/82 - Average Assists per 82 Games Played
S/82 - Average Steals per 82 Games Played
B/82 - Average Blocks per 82 Games Played
Def - Players Defensive Rating
Rat1 - One version of a players Rating converted to a 100 point scale
Rat2 - Another version of a players Rating converted to a 100 point scale
$/100 - Players salary converted to a 100 point scale
$/min - Players $ per minute played converted to a 100 point scale
RNK - Players rank based on all categories

Light Blue = Elite
Blue = All-NBA
Green = All-Star Caliber
Yellow = Very Good
Orange = Above Average
Red = Bottom 10% of the league
4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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4/3/2010 8:13 PM
zizzo24
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Atlantic Division


Boston Celtics – The Beast of the East

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0864-181st AtlanticLost Conf. Final$49.6 mil
2008-0962-201st Atlantic2nd Round$47.5 mil
The Celtics are coming off their 2nd consecutive Atlantic division title, however they have regressed the past 3 seasons in the playoffs; from champion, to runner up, to conf. finalist.The good news is they are on quite a streak having made 5 straight playoff appearances – most in franchise history.During that span they have won at least 55 games in each of those seasons. The biggest obstacle in their way ishaving to fill a major void in the lineup as 3 time All-Star and 1st team All-NBA selection PF Carlos Boozer will be severely limited this season.They’ll need to find someone to pick up the slack for the 23 PPG and 13 RPG he posted last season.The key to their success this season will rely on the play of PF Boris Diaw who will start for Boozer.They’ll still have C Marcus Camby starting in the frontcourt and he has truly become a defensive force in the league grabbing 14.1 rebounds a night along with adding 4.5 blocks per game.He’s also been honored as an all-star representative, named to the 1st team all-defensive team, and voted 3rd team all-NBA in each of the past two seasons.SF Caron Butler was named 6th man of the year last season but he’ll now join the starting lineup.The Celtics have one of, if not, the most dangerous backcourts in the league.Former two time All-Star PG Tony Parker will run the offense and fellow two time All-Star SG Dwyane Wade will light it up from all over the court and is capable of scoring 30 a night.SG Raja Bell will continue to be a three point threat coming in off the bench.’07 lottery pick F Carl Landry will play a vital role being the main backup cog in the frontcourt.Boston also added Italian import SF Danilo Gallinari with their ’08 1st round pick, however, he won’t see much time as a rook.Conversely the pair of ’08 2nd rounders the Celtics selected, C JaVale McGee & PG Sergio Rodriguez, will see some time off the bench.Overall the Celtics have a great shot to win the Atlantic division for the 3rd straight season and should be able to win around 60 games.The biggest question is do they have enough healthy talent to represent the Eastern Conference in the Finals and win their 2nd title in franchise history.



Toronto Raptors – Seven Championships and Counting

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0851-312nd AtlanticLost 2nd Round$39.4 mil
2008-0957-252nd AtlanticNBA Finalist$43.2 mil
Since the most decorated franchise in Davkar history moved north of

the border they haven’t missed a beat.Last season they posted 51 wins en route to a 4th straight playoff appearance and they haven’t won fewer than 50 games since moving to Toronto.However, since winning the title in 04-05 (their 1st season as the Raptors) they have regressed come playoff time this past season getting bounced in the 2nd round.This season it’s going to really become a two man show for the Raptors.Option #1A will be SG Joe Johnson.No one played more minutes last season than Joe Johnson as he logged over 40 minutes a night.He was named to the 2nd team All-NBA team and made his 3rd all-star game in the past 4 seasons.Option #1B is veteran PF Dirk Nowitzki.Last season he was named to the 3rd team All-NBA and his 8th All-Star game.Those two should combine for nearly 50 points per game.Last season’s lottery pick PG Rodney Stuckey takes over the reins at the point.SF Mike Miller will return for his 4th season in the starting lineup helping to extend the opposition’s defense.PF Paul Millsap will start for the 1st time in his young career.This will likely be a huge breakout season for him.The Raptors added shot blocking specialist Roy Hibbert to provide depth in the frontcourt with their 1st round pick.PG Delonte West who begins his 2nd season as a Raptor will be the first option off the bench.Ten year veteran C Zydrunas Ilgauskas, PF/C Darko Milicic, F James Singleton (coming off the IR), and last season’s 2nd round pick SG Julian Wright will provide the depth.The Raptors have a nice inside-outside scoring combo, two solid young developing starters, a 3 point veteran specialist, good overall defense and some quality depth.This is certainly enough talent to make another playoff run this season.The biggest question is can they win the division making a run through the playoffs that much easier.
4/3/2010 8:14 PM
zizzo24
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New York Knicks – Back to Where it All Began

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0844-383rd AtlanticLost 1st Round$48.7 mil
2008-0950-323rd Atlantic1st Round$43.4 mil
Last season the Orlando Magic made the playoffs under their 1st year coach.They have finished with a winning record in each of the past 2 seasons and finished in the top half of the Atlantic division for the 1st time since moving to Orlando in 00-01.Now they move back to the city of the franchises origin – New York.The fans at MSG are in for a treat getting to watch the young superstar Chris Paul.No player in the league was a bigger thief than the first time All-Star as he registered 3 steals per game.He’s also posted an incredible 4.66 assist to turnover ratio during his career; posting a career best 5.20 last season.He helped lead the Magic as a team to lead the league in both assist/turnover ratio and turnover differential.Fellow PG Kyle Lowry was named to the all-rookie team last season living up to his potential that made him a lottery pick, though he’ll come in off the bench this season.SG Josh Howard is coming off a season where he was named to his 1st all-star game will be starting backcourt partner of Paul.Another talented scoring threat in the backcourt will play the role of 6th man this in G Jamal Crawford.Al Harrington will start at PF while 12 year veteran Antonio McDyess (who has spent the majority of his career in New York/Orlando) will start at C.’05 lottery pick SF Charlie Villanueva will round out the starting five and he should produce his best season of his short career.PF Anthony Randolph joins the Magic as their latest 1st round selection seeing time off the bench.Swingman Corey Maggette and bigs Chris Wilcox & Jamaal Magloire will pick up the remaining bench minutes.The franchise picked a good time to move back to New York as they have a talented roster that can compete with just about anyone on any given night.They should be in the hunt for the Atlantic division title all season long.The biggest question will be can they win a playoff series, something they haven’t done since the 98-99 season, back when they were in New York.



Miami Heat – Tons of Top Shelf Talent

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0833-495th AtlanticMissed Playoffs$43.5 mil
2008-0929-534th AtlanticNo Playoffs$41.1 mil
The Heat have really been the model of consistency in the league having always won between 34 and 53 games in all 20 seasons.The problem is sometimes it’s better to have down years to build up a contender given they’ve now missed the playoffs for the 4th time in past 5 seasons.They also haven’t won a playoff game since 01-02 and haven’t won a playoff series since 00-01.The good news is they still have C Tim Duncan who has now become one of only 4 players in Davkar league history to be named to 10 all-star games.They’ll again lean on him to get to the promise land.The other interesting thing about the Heat is their incredible fortune in the lottery.This past season they once again hit the lottery landing the #3 pick selecting C Marc Gasol.If he’s anywhere near as good as his older brother he’ll pay big dividends.He’ll be given the opportunity to start as a rookie.Since being drafted in the ’05 lottery PG Raymond Felton has been a solid player.He’ll again start this season along with SG James Posey who begins his 10 season in a Heat uniform.The best scoring option on the Heat might be ’06 lottery selection SF Rudy Gay who has really developed his game into becoming a 20 point per game guy. Another former lottery pick SF Luol Deng has had his ups and downs during his 4 year career.He’ll now come in off the bench along with former All-Star SG Michael Redd comes to Miami via free agency.Last season’s 1st round selection PF Yi Jianlian continues to learn the game coming in off the bench as well.C Nenad Krstic & PG T.J. Ford round out the bench.It’s doubtful the Heat can keep pace with the top tier of the Atlantic division this season.However, it’s likely the Heat could hover around .500 this season.That might be enough for them to grab the last spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.If they can it’s going depend on if Duncan and Gay have favorable matchups.If not, the lottery waits yet again and given the luck of the Heat another superstar might be laying in wait for them.
4/3/2010 8:14 PM
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Washington Wizards – It’s Gotta Get Better

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-087-756th AtlanticMissed Playoffs$29.5 mil
2008-0928-545th AtlanticNo Playoffs$33.0 mil
The Wizards have had a rough time recently finishing in last place of the Atlantic division for the 3rd consecutive season.They’ve also missed the playoffs 4 times in past 5 seasons.Nor have they won a playoff game since 02-03.In addition, their win total has not increased in each of the past 7 seasons.Finally they finished with sub 10 wins for the 3rd time in franchise history.So, at this point it can only get better for the league’s doormat this season and beyond.The Wizards earned the #2 pick in the draft and selected PF Kevin Love who they are expecting big things from day one as he’ll start.12 year veteran frontcourt member and 4 time former All-Star Jermaine O’Neal will be counted on to give the Wizards leadership this season.The Wizards will be without the services of former All-Star SG Eddie Jones as he retired after 14 seasons. SG Courtney Lee was drafted with the 2nd of their 1st round picks to replace Jones.’06 lottery pick SG Ronnie Brewer will likely be the best Wizard on the floor this season.Backcourt mate PG Nate Robinson will lead them from the point.Despite his small stature he’ll provide plenty of scoring and energy.Sharpshooting SF Kyle Korver will play the role of 6th man again this season.Veteran G Bobby Jackson returns for another season with the Wiz providing bench support.Former defensive player of the year C Ben Wallace will also come in off the bench.A couple of 2nd round picks will also see significant minutes off the bench in SG Aaron Afflalo (’07) and PF Ryan Anderson (’08).The Wizards aren’t ready to compete just yet but they’ll be much better this season.With another solid draft pick and the development of their younger players the Wiz will be running over the competition in a few seasons.



Philadelphia 76ers – Garnett, Nash, and not much help

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0839-434th AtlanticMissed Playoffs$35.2 mil
2008-0927-556th AtlanticNo Playoffs$34.1 mil
It’s now been 4 seasons since the Sixers were on top of the basketball world winning back-to-back titles in 02-03 & 03-04.Last season they took a major step backwards as they finished 4th in the Atlantic with 39 wins; their lowest total since 96-97.It’s the first time they’ve missed playoffs in 8 seasons.The problem for them recently is their two best players aren’t playing at a superstar level.PF Kevin Garnett looks to bounce back from his worst season as a pro since his rookie campaign back in 95-96.Last season was the 1st time since his rookie season that Garnett wasn’t named as an All-Star.He is the active leader in AS appearances with 11.While he’ll still be the best player on the team he’s no longer able to dominate the competition.Philly did lead the league as a team in free throw shooting percentage hitting over 80%.A large part of that success was due to PG Steve Nash as he hit well over 90% of his free throw attempts and was named to his 4th all-star game.He again should play at an all-star level but he’s not going to be able to do it alone.The Sixers used their lottery pick on UCLA SF Luc Richard Mbah a Moute who should be able to step into the lineup and provide solid defense.C Samuel Dalembert will again start as he’s done every season since entering the league in 03-04.He’s a solid shot blocking presence in the middle.The final starter will be 10 year veteran SG Larry Hughes.PG Chris Duhon will play a ton of minutes as the 6th man for the Sixers.As will ’05 1st rounder SF Linas Kleiza.SF Amir Johnson will provide some defensive energy off the bench in his 2nd season.Second round ’08 selection C Hilton Armstrong along with 6th year vet C Dan Gadzuric will provide the depth in the paint.Like any once great team the Sixers’ age has finally caught up with them.They’ll need to find the fountain of youth to be able to compete with the top teams in the league this season.Since that’s not likely they’ll end up with a high pick in the ’09 draft.
4/3/2010 8:14 PM
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Central Division


Atlanta Hawks – Still Flying High

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0870-121st CentralLost Finals$50.6 mil
2008-0959-231st CentralConf. Finals$43.4 mil
The Hawks are coming off their best season in franchise history winning 70 games and making it to their 2nd finals appearance.The problem is each time they made the Finals they played against the two greatest single season teams losing on both occasions.The good news is they won back-to-back Central division titles and more importantly have increased their win total in each of the past 5 seasons.This season it’s going to be nearly impossible to extend that streak.The Hawks will be without the services of PF/C P.J. Brown for the 1st time since the 94-95 season as he retired after a solid 15 year career.However, C Dwight Howard did just about everything you can ask for in a player for the Hawks last season.He led the league in rebounds (16.3 RPG), was 4th in scoring (23.4 PPG), was 3rd in field goal percentage (64.6%), and 4th in blocks (2.6 BPG) en route to his 3rd all-star appearance and defensive player of the year honors.With Howard patrolling the middle it plenty of open perimeter shots and the Hawks took full advantage of that leading the league in three point shooting percentage.Based on those two factors it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Hawks led the league in field goal percentage last season.They’ve also led the league in rebounds the past 4 seasons and had a 13.5 rebound per game margin last season.C Tyson Chandler was a big part of the rebounding prowess of the Hawks last season although it’s likely his role will diminish this season as he’ll battle injuries all season long.PG Jose Calderon was a steady presence running the point for the Hawks last season.He was named as a 3rd team All-NBA member leading the league in assist to turnover ratio at nearly 6. PF David West was named to his first All-Star game last season and he’ll be the #2 option this season.The defensive minded SF Tayshaun Prince and long range bomber SG J.R. Smith round out the starters.The Hawks added yet another big in PF Louis Amundson with their 1st round pick and traded up to select F J.J. Hickson with their 2nd round pick.Both will play some minutes off the bench along with veteran PG Earl Watson and F Craig Smith.The Hawks have a shot to win the Central division this season and make a return trip to the Finals.It’s just gonna be much harder this season to live up to the expectations.



Indiana Pacers – Setting the Pace in the Central?

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0830-525th CentralMissed Playoffs$36.5 mil
2008-0954-282nd Central2nd Round$47.7 mil
The Pacers glory years have now passed as the franchise missed the playoffs for the 4th consecutive season posting only 30 wins and finishing 5th in the Central division.However, it seems maybe they have another run in them this season.C Shaquille O’Neal is now the elder statesman of the league having played in more games than any other active player and he should set the all-time mark in games started later this season. He is also the active leader in points scored, field goals made & attempted, field goal percentage (the only player with more than 2000 attempts that has shot over 60% from the field), offensive rebounds, total rebounds, and blocked shots.He’s also never missed a start in his 16 year career and he’ll again be roaming the paint in his 17th season.The very highly rated prospect SG O.J. Mayo comes to Indiana via the 6th overall pick and he will start immediately.Devin Harris will run the point for the Pacers and he’ll to expand upon his best season as a pro.Given the talent around him this should make things considerably easier for him this season.10 year veteran SF Rashard Lewis will also start in his 2nd season with the Pacers.He should have his best season as a pro and possibly make his 1st all-star appearance.The #2 pick in the ’05 draft PF David Lee is finally starting to understand the game and will have his best season as a pro.These guys comprise one of the best starting five’s in the league.SF Trevor Ariza will play the role of 6th man.Last season’s 1st round pick PG Ramon Sessions will now be the main backup to Harris.F Brandon Bass and former 4 time all-star SF Michael Finley will also serve as backups.The Pacers have a very formidable lineup with 3 guys in the starting lineup that all should have their best season as a pro.Throw in the highly touted Mayo and the veteran presence of Shaq along with a deep bench and the Pacers will easily be able to get 50+ wins.They should also challenge for the Central division title and should be a very dangerous team come playoff time.
4/8/2010 11:49 AM
zizzo24
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Milwaukee Bucks – Bucking the Trend

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0841-414th CentralMissed Playoffs$34.0 mil
2008-0939-433rd Central1st Round$34.8 mil
Milwaukee fought through some key injuries last season and finished a surprising 4th in the Central division posting 41 wins.Despite having a respectable season they missed the playoffs for 1st time in 8 seasons and actually posted their worst season since 98-99 (last time they had a losing season).12 year veteran sharpshooter SG Ray Allen has been named to 4 all-star games and is the active leader in 3 pointers made and free throw percentage.He’s going to be the go-to-guy again this season since fellow 7 time all-star PF Elton Brand is going to be limited yet again with injuries.C Emeka Okafor should produce his best season to date as he’ll be a double-double threat every night.He’ll combine with PF Chris “Birdman” Andersen (fresh off a 2 year suspension) to form one of the best defensive frontcourts in the league.The remainder of the starters is going to be by committee.At PG Leandro Barbosa will see the majority of the minutes.Veteran G Fred Jones will play the remainder of the minutes at the point.10 year veteran Ruben Patterson announced his retirement during the offseason leaving a void at small forward.The position will be filled by SG Mickael Pietrus and the high flying PF Jason Maxiell.First round selection SG Anthony Morrow joins the Bucks and he’ll be in the mix to see some playing time as rookie.As will 2nd round pick SG C.J. Miles.Twelve year veteran PF Kurt Thomas can still rebound with the best of them and SG Sasha Vujacic will play out the remainder of the bench minutes.Basically the Bucks will use all 12 players on their roster this season.They’ll have to get maximum effort from all their players to make a run at the playoffs.Considering these same players posted a .500 record last season they should be able to get close to that again – the alternative is the lottery which isn’t necessarily a bad thing when you haven’t been there much in the past decade.



Cleveland Cavaliers – Starting to Turn the Corner?

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0823-596th CentralMissed Playoffs$35.2 mil
2008-0935-474th CentralNo Playoffs$41.6 mil
The Cavs have been a tough team to figure out the past few seasons.They seemingly have enough talent but for some reason the players don’t seem to gel.Last season they finished 6th in Central division and missed playoffs for the 9th straight season.They haven’t been able to win more than 28 games in 9 consecutive seasons now.They haven’t had a winning season since 98-99 – the last time they made the playoffs and they haven’t won a playoff series since the 95-96 season.It’s been rough times for the Cleveland faithful but maybe they are starting to turn the corner.It’s going to have to start with PG Derrick Rose.He was selected with the Cavs 1st round lottery selection this past draft and he will immediately start.He’ll have to contribute in major ways for them to have success this season.Last season thy scooped up PF Al Thornton with their lottery selection.He had a decent rookie campaign and should improve this season.SG Jason Richardson will start again this season after alternating from the bench to starting role for the past few seasons.C Nene Hilario returns from an injury plagued season and the Cavs hope he can regain his starting form.F Tyrus Thomas rounds out the starting five.The two best players on the Cavs roster have been relegated from the starting lineup and will both come in off the bench - SG/SF Danny Granger and former all-star G Ben Gordon.It seems that both are capable of handling a much bigger role.’07 3rd round pick SG Daequan Cook and free agent castaways SF Bruce Bowen & C Francisco Elson will see some time off the bench.The Cavs starting C the past 5 seasons Chris Kaman will see limited time off the bench as he battles through injuries.The Cavs have plenty of talent on their roster that is littered with lottery selections the question is can they find the right mix to help them break through to the playoffs.If they can’t figure it out yet another lottery selection is waiting for this franchise.
4/8/2010 11:50 AM
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Chicago Bulls – Injuries, Injuries, Injuries

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0854-282nd CentralLost 2nd Round$47.9 mil
2008-0930-525th CentralNo Playoffs$35.9 mil
The Bulls are coming off a nice season where they finished 2nd in Central division making the 2nd round of the playoffs for only the 2nd time since 93-94 (03-04 was the other).Their 54 wins last season were tied for the most they’ve had since the 92-93 season.They’ve made the playoffs in 4 of the last 5 seasons.Now the Bulls will have to find a way to fight through a rash of injuries to make a return trip to the playoffs.The Bulls will be without PG Jamaal Tinsley as he’s moved on retiring after 7 seasons.As has SG Bonzi Wells who retires after spending his 9 year career in Chicago.It will be interesting to see how SG Allen Iverson and 5 time former all-star takes to a bit of a different role in the offense – though he’ll still start he is now running the point.C Amar’e Stoudemire has fully recovered from his knee injury regaining his all-star form posting his best season as a pro.He’ll play the role of 6th man this season.The Bulls added Kansas product PF Darrell Arthur via their 1st round pick.He’ll step into the starting lineup this season taking Stoudemire’s spot.Former all-star C Brad Miller retains his starting spot and hopes to have a productive season.’08 2nd round selection SG Brandon Rush will step into a starting role.The offense will run through former 6 time all-star F Shawn Marion.His 1st season in Chicago was a mediocre one compared to his days in Portland.5th year SF Andres Nocioni, 6th year SG Marquis Daniels, and 5th year PG Jameer Nelson will all see time off the bench.Newer additions F Leon Powe, C Josh Boone, and PG Will Bynum will play the remainder of the minutes.The Bulls will need a collective effort to fight through the limitations on their roster.They still have enough talented players but they’ll be hard pressed to make a run at the playoffs this season.The lottery is much more likely and another lottery pick added to this healthy roster could make the Bulls very dangerous next season.



Detroit Pistons – In Need of a Tune-up

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0843-393rd CentralLost 1st Round$49.0 mil
2008-0927-556th CentralNo Playoffs$40.4 mil
After 3 down seasons the Pistons bounced back into the playoffs last season putting up 43 wins after a horrific start to the season.Unfortunately the season ended on a down note as the Stones were swept in the 1st round.One thing this season that won’t help matters is the surprising departure of SF Josh Childress who bailed on the Pistons after 1 season opting to play overseas instead.The good news is last season’s lottery selectionPF Luis Scola was named to the all-rookie team and his role should expand more this season.SF Hedo Turkoglu will be the best scoring option this season for the Stones.He’ll have to be since there’s not a lot of scoring options after him.C Kenyon Martin returns to the starting lineup and should be able to play a lot more minutes for the Pistons this season.SG Anthony Parker retains his starting role and is more of a 3 point threat.Last season the Pistons traded to get PG Mike Conley and he’ll now be the starter.They also return 3 time All-Star PG Baron Davis though he’ll now come in off the bench this season.SF Peja Stojakovic will also come in off the bench and should provide some additional offense.SG Rasual Butler can also provide a bit of scoring off the bench.C Andrew Bogut has a nice defensive game but the offense is still lacking from the ’05 lottery pick.Fabricio Oberto & Theo Ratliff will provide the frontcourt bench support.The Pistons have some nice pieces in place especially in the backcourt but are lacking a true scoring presence in the frontcourt.If they can find a way to maximize the efficiency of their backcourt they’ll be able to compete for a playoff spot.If they cannot then they’ll be back in the lottery.
4/8/2010 11:50 AM
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San Antonio Spurs – The Champs Reside Here

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0873-91st MidwestCHAMPIONS$50.9 mil
2008-0964-181st MidwestChampions$45.5 mil
It took 20 seasons but the San Antonio Spurs finally won a championship.They are obviously coming off the best season in franchise history winning an incredible 73 games.They’ve now increased their win total in each of the past 5 seasons and are the back-to-back Midwest division champs.As good as they are defensively (led the league in scoring defense & field goal percentage defense) they also led the league in scoring offense last season.When combined they outscored the opposition by 20 points per game and outshot the opposition by 10.3% from the field.They also shot 43.1% from three point land which was good enough for 2nd in the league.The Spurs also led the league and actually set the all-time Davkar league mark with an astounding 35.4 assists per game.When you put all this together it makes sense they had the 2nd best record in league history last season finishing 85-12.It shouldn’t come as surprise that they have the best player in the league; four time All-Star, 1st team All-Defense member, two-time league MVP, and Finals MVP SF LeBron James.He also finished 2nd in scoring last season averaging 28.7 PPG.C Andris Biedrins lit it up from the field leading the league shooting 67.8% from the floor and will start again.Two time All-Star PF Josh Smith finished 2nd in the league in blocks turning away 3.4 shots per game and was named to the 2nd team of the All-NBA and All-Defense squads.Former #1 overall pick Rajon Rondo will run the point and it’s scary to think that he is getting closer to that elite level.The SG role will be filled by free agent Roger Mason. SG Manu Ginobili was named 2nd team All-Defense last season but his offensive game is just as dangerous.However, he’ll be hampered by injuries this season.Throw 3 point specialist Matt Barnes who can play any position, veteran PG Anthony Carter, C Rasho Nesterovic, and ’08 1st round pick C DeAndre Jordan into the mix and the Spurs are ready to defend their title.They’ll run away with the Midwest division and probably land the #1 seed in the West.From there it’s going to take a helluva team and effort to knock the champs out.



Dallas Mavericks – The Kings of the Midwest

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0829-535th MidwestMissed Playoffs$38.1 mil
2008-0944-382nd Midwest1st Round$38.4 mil
Once upon a time no team was more dominate season after season in their division than the Dallas Mavericks.Last season was a different story as they missed the playoffs and had their lowest win total (29) since 02-03 season.They also finished in 5th place of the Midwest division something they are not accustomed to considering they’ve won half the division titles in the 20 season history of the Davkar league.Even though he’s been gone for years former Mavs C Dikembe Mutombo was inducted into the hall of fame during the offseason.Which brings up the point of what was once a Dallas forte, strong defense, rebounding, and blocked shots has completely changed as the Mavs shattered an all-time Davkar league team record for most 3 point attempts jacking up an amazing 2,817 threes (more than 34 per game).They still have a few guys on the roster that fit the original mold.Starting PF and former defensive player of the year Andrei Kirilenko would be one of them.He’s not much of an offensive threat but he more than makes up for it on the defensive end.Starting next to him will be another defensive standout SF Gerald Wallace who is a season removed from being an all-star.C Kendrick Perkins will start again this season as he has improved his game during each of his 4 years.The eccentric SG Stephen Jackson will start and continue to jack up plenty of threes.As will ’08 2nd round draft pick SG Rudy Fernandez.Their 1st round draft selection PG Russell Westbrook will now get the keys to the Dallas franchise as he’ll start as a rookie.He’ll supplant former all-star, 5 year veteran PG Kirk Hinrich who will come in off the bench.Another former all-star C Mehmet Okur will also provide some quality minutes off the bench.The Mavs have a much stronger and more balanced team this season.They should be able to easily grab a playoff spot this season.If they get the right draw they could make a little noise, if not it’ll be an early exit.
4/8/2010 11:50 AM
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Memphis Grizzlies – Coming Out of Hibernation?

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0833-494th MidwestMissed Playoffs$36.1 mil
2008-0941-413rd Midwest1st Round$41.2 mil
Last season the Grizzlies missed the playoffs for 2nd consecutive season for 1st time since becoming the Grizz in 95-96.They have finished in 4th place in the Midwest division the past two seasons which is a change for one of the most consistent franchises in the Davkar league.This season the Grizz will look to return to their winning ways.Last season’s #1 overall pick SG Kevin Durant had a nice debut season averaging 19 PPG, 5 RPG, and 3 APG.He should be even better this season.6 time all-star SF Paul Pierce returns for his 11th season with the Grizzlies.He looks to have another all-star caliber season.Former two time all-star C Yao Ming will be roaming the paint in his 2nd season since coming over from Oklahoma City.8 year veteran PF Jeff Foster will start along with 7 year vet PG Keyon Dooling.Last season’s 1st round selection PG Aaron Brooks will occasionally start at the point as well.Kansas State product SF Michael Beasley comes to Memphis as the Grizz’ 1st round lottery pick in ’08 draft.He will play the role of 6th man this season.The Grizz also added castaway PF Channing Frye who they hope will develop his game and help them down the road.Former all-star C Zaza Pachulia will log some minutes off the bench.Antoher former all-star 13 year veteran PF Joe Smith will also play some minutes off the bench.The Grizz have a roster full of former all-stars and long time veterans.This experience should help them land a spot in the playoffs.If Beasley is as good as advertised and if Durant continues to blossom into one of the pure scorers in the league the Grizz have an outside shot of having some success come playoff time.If not, they’ll have a short playoff stint but regardless they have a solid foundation for next season in Beasley, Durant, and Pierce.



Minnesota Timberwolves – The Ownerless Franchise

SeasonW-LPlaceFinishSalary
2007-0835-473rd MidwestLost 1st Round$34.2 mil
2008-0933-494th MidwestNo Playoffs$39.9 mil
Minnesota pulled off something rather unusual last season as they made playoffs for 2nd consecutive season despite winning 34 and 35 games respectively.In both occurrences they finished in 3rd place as well as losing in the 1st round.Now they are without their only coach in franchise history this season as the commissioner’s office will run the team.Minnesota actually has a nice solid young core intact.PG Mo Williams is a threat from beyond the arc and he’ll start again.As will his backcourt mate former all-star SG Jason Terry.4th year man F Hakim Warrick will start as will ’07 1st rounder F Thaddeus Young.’06 1st rounder C LaMarcus Aldridge will round out the starting five.Minnesota used their 1st round selection to bolster their backcourt selecting PG Mario Chalmers who will see plenty of action off the bench.Their best defender SF Shane Battier will come in off the bench as will F Matt Bonner.Neither player shoots a lot but when they do it’s usually coming from beyond the arc.C Kwame Brown will eat up the remainder of the minutes.The T’Wolves are extremely athletic, have very balanced scoring, will shoot a ton of threes and they hope to use that and their youth to make a run at a playoff spot.There’s not really a dominate 2nd team in the Midwest division and there’s no reason it can’t be the T’Wolves.It’s likely going to come down to the last week of the season (as it has the past two seasons) to determine if the Timberwolves are a lottery team or the last to join the Western conference playoffs and take a shot at capturing their 1st title in franchise history.However, that would be an extremely long shot considering they’ve never been past the 2nd round of the playoffs before.
4/8/2010 11:50 AM
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