They fetched donuts, they rode the pine at times and they got their feet wet. Now members of last year’s rookie class are ready to contribute. Of course we know that this year, Derrick Rose will continue his rise to that Deron Williams/Chris Paul point guard status and O.J. Mayo will build on his sensational rookie campaign. But there are several sophomores who have flown under the radar that you might need to start keeping tabs on. Here’s my five. Read More »

With the exception of the Rockets, you can probably count on each of last year’s Western Conference playoff teams returning to the postseason in ’09-10. That makes one spot up for grabs. For me, the top two candidates for the West’s eighth and final playoff berth is going to be between the Clippers and Suns (although the Thunder, Grizzlies and Rockets aren’t far behind). Read More »

Gregg Popovich knows a good big man when he sees one. For the past dozen years, he has coached arguably the best power forward in the league in Tim Duncan. After Clippers’ rookie Blake Griffin posted 23 points (10-14 from the field) on the Spurs last night, Popovich was quick to pay the young phenom the ultimate compliment.

“He’s a monster,” Popovich told the press after last night’s 93-90 loss to the Clippers. “He deserved to be picked where he was picked, that’s for sure. He’s a heck of a competitor.” Read More »

As many of you know, last year I was a complete disaster. But for every gambler, there is a new day and that day is today. I don’t love any of tonight’s game… with the possible exception of the over/under of the Celtics/Cavs game. 180? I like the over.

I did want to drop the Bodog preseason odds to take the NBA Championship. Things that jump out at me as intriguing long shot bets – The Mavericks at 25/1, the Cavs at 14/1, Clippers at 80/1, Spurs at 12/1 and the Raptors at 28/1. Even the Hornets at 10/1 is a nice bet. What do you guys like?

Odds to win 2009 NBA Championship (Max Bet on Bodog for this is $600): Read More »