Post by bankz on Jul 24, 2010 1:47:24 GMT -5
So with the basketball season coming to an end I wanted to take some time to do a power ranking for the entire NBA. My power rankings factor in current record, roster age, future picks and GM leadership. I will be doing this yearly. As my personal state of the NBA. Now on with the power rankings. (ITS LONG READER BEWARE)
29. Milwaukee Bucks
After the shocking first round selection of Eric Chenowith along with moving there 2002 1st round pick that capped off a horrible creation draft, Bucks owner jacksonduck had to make a change at the GM position. Instead of going out side the organization he chose to take over role as Owner/GM/Head Coach. The Bucks quickly made some strong moves shedding againg vets for draft picks and a young small forward in Mike Miller. But then out of the blue Jackson moves some of there future in a bold move to get Jerry Stackhouse. Only time will tell if this move will backfire on the Bucks but Stackhouse has always been a targeted player for Milwaukee.
Key Assets
SF Mike Miller (21)
SG Jerry Stackhouse (26)
C Eric Chenowith (22)
PF Michael Wright (21)
2002 1st round pick (Celtics)
2002 1st round pick (Grizzlies)
TheFuture
It's going to take a long time for this organization to get back to a level of respectability. Unfortunately they have traded away there 1st round picks in '02 and '03. So rebuilding will be slow. Hopefully Jackson can make two solid selections in the 2002 1st round along with the three second round picks.
28. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are a team with no direction and very few assets. One of the older teams in the league they struggle to score and defend game in and out. The Spurs count on Jalen Rose and Corliss Williamson to carry the load and as this season pointed out they are not up for the challenge. Spurs GM Herky has not been very active and really has given fans a reason to believe in his ability.
Key Assets
C Kwame Brown (19)
PF Corliss Williamson (27)
SG Jalen Rose (28)
The Future
Not very bright. The Spurs have not hit bottom yet. A scary thought. Herky will need to show leadership and vision to lead this team. But for the near future expect to see a lot of ping pong balls.
27. Indiana Pacers
The Pacers have had major issues all year finding scoring. The team has averaged just 93 points a game. This team will need to find a go to scorer as its leading scorer Quintin Richardson is only averaging just 18.2 points a game. This team has some building blocks but has remained un-active in the trade market to this point. Deciding to play it cool and see what may fall to them. With all the current picks available to them Indiana will look to find a true superstar with there Lottery pick.
Key Assets
PG Tony Parker (19)
SG Quinton Richardson (21)
SF Gerald Wallace (19)
PF Lamar Odom (21)
The Future
Pacers have 4 very good building blocks but are still a few years off from being a playoff contender. But Indiana is doing a good job of mixing some very young prospects with some solid vets to show them the ropes. If Parker and Wallace make solid steps Indiana could be a fun team to watch next year.
26. Sacramento Kings
The kings have been extremely active in the first year of the NBA league. But to this point what are they doing? Depends on what direction the wind blows. In recent weeks GM Heel/Tiger has stuck with building with youth for the future he has picked up multiple 1st round picks. He also trusted his scouts and got Joe Forte in a move that people around the league felt was just a throw in player for a big time 3 way deal that went down before the trade deadline. Forte looks to be a star in the making.
Key Assets
PG Joe Forte (20)
SG Jamal Crawford (21)
SF Mike Bradley (21)
4 1st round picks in the next 3 years
The Future
The Kings have gone with a full blown youth movement. Taking a risk that young player like Crawford, Forte and Bradley can develop into superstars. But Crawford has shown in Chicago and now in Sacramento that hey may not be ready for that role. Player development and scouting will be key for the Kings. Having the youngest team in the league will mean taking some serious bumps for a few years.
25. Denver Nuggets
Another young western conference team the Denver Nuggets have gone with youth. Being led by 20 year old Zach Randolph and his 24 points and 8 rebounds a game have proven to be a bright spot on a under performing team. Denver is banking on some of the other young players to develop so Denver can compete in the west.
Key Assets
PF Zach Randolph (20)
SG Larry Hughes (21)
SF Ron Artest (21)
2002 1st round lottery pick
The Future
The Nuggets will hope for a high draft choice so they can bring in help for budding superstar Zach Randolph. If not they may be banking on Artest and Hughes to take a big step forward. But one thing is for sure Zach Randolph has arrived and team in the Western Conference better take notice.
24. Minnesota Fighting Kahns
Defense, Defense, Defense but who going to score? That is the question everyone in T-Wolves country has been asking. Well to this point only Eddie Jones. But at 30 years old how long can Eddie keep up his pace. At some point Wolves GM Ianboyd will need to find someone to fill the basket. Till then Minnesota will fall down the standings.
Key Assets
C Brendan Haywood (21)
PF Stomile Swift (21)
SG Eddie Jones (30)
The Future
The Wolves need to find scoring and find it asap. But with only the Jazz pick in 2002 1st round help is not likely on the way. Its clear Ian could care less about scoring choosing to focus he training on defensive skills. 2003 may be the key off-season for Wolves fans. Till then expect to see some ugly basketball.
23. Portland Trailblazers
Portland made a huge effort to land Andre Miller in the creation draft and thus far he has lived up to the billing. Problem is the only other player on the roster willing to put in top effort on a nightly basis is Rip Hamilton. Portland may need to call up the Minnesota T-Wolves fellow western conference bottom dweller and see if they can find someone willing to play defense.
Key Assets
C Eddy Curry (19)
SG Rip Hamilton (23)
PG Andre Miller (25)
The Future
The Blazers future success depends solely on the progress of young Eddie Curry. Work ethic and a desire to get better have been huge question marks for Eddy to this point. A change of attitude this off-season could do wonders for his game and Portland's future. If Eddy can be motivated for a full year the Blazers have a shot of competing for a playoff spot in a weak western conference.
22. Vancouver Grizzlies
The Grizzlies are a playoff team this year but have hit there summit. Not much upside left in this team. The Grizz will need to decide to either keep with the older vets like Stockton, Sprewell, Ewing and Morning or blow it up. Right now Vancouver is the definition of average. A .500 team that gives up 93 points a game and scores 93 points a game.
Key Assets
C Alonzo Morning (31)
SG Latrell Sprewell (31)
PG John Stockton (39)
The Future
The Grizzlies brain trust will need to ask some tough choices. Continue on with this old team and hope they can make a playoff run next year or blow it up and re-build this team. Either way this team is not a championship contender. If they do decide to blow things up lots of contenders may be knocking on there door for the final piece to put them over the top.
21. Miami Heat
Miami did not have a good year. Another team taking a chance to look to the 2003 NBA draft then focus on this year. Miami have a nice mix of vets and youth but the team is lacking defensive skills. They have a minus 9 score differential per game. Maimi will need to address this if they want to compete in a loaded eastern conference.
Key Assets
SF Paul Pierce (24)
PF Eddie Griffin (20)
4 First round picks in the next 3 years
The Future
A "Help Wanted" sign should be posted in front of Paul Pierce locker. Miami are looking at the 2003 draft and willing to take lumps along the way. In a stacked East the Heat have no chance of making the playoffs for the next few years. Get used to seeing a lot of empty seats in Miami. As I would rather be in south beach then watch this Miami Heat team play.
20. New York Knicks
The highest scoring team is also the team that gives up the most points a game. Some of that has to do with style some with players lack of effort on the defensive end of the court. The Knicks are a older team built around Stevie Franchise. And have tried to out score opponents every night to mixed results.
Key Assets
PG Steve Francis (24)
SF Penny Hardaway (30)
PF Antwan Walker (25)
The Future
The Knicks are not a young team. Steve and Antwan are in there primes but the supporting cast is aging and not getting better. The Knicks are another team that may want to move some vets for future picks or young players to build around there big two. I think the Knicks will take a step back next year.
19. Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers looked to be cruising this year but hit a wall towards the end of the season. A locker room conflict could be the reason for the down hill slide. They will need to find the love in the off-season. B-Diddy is a young superstar, the sky is the limit for this young PG.
Key Assets
PG Baron Davis (22)
C Marcus Camby (27)
SG Jason Terry (24)
The Future
Move over Lakers. LA may soon become Clipper land. Baron is stud who is getting better. Coach Ocho is expecting Jason Terry and Marcus Camby to take another step forward to help Baron out next year. Play-offs and Western Conference finals could be in the near future.
18. Detroit Pistons
Detroit was a horrible basketball team this year. But they have some good young players and draft picks. Its going to be up to Rv12 to make this team go because this year was unacceptable for fans of this once proud franchise.
Key Assets
SG Jason Richardson (21)
SF Darius Miles (20)
3 lottery Picks in the 2002 NBA draft
The Future
Its all on management. They asked the fans to take the lumps for this year in hopes of landing players like Yao Ming, Jay Williams and Carmello Anthony. Now will the ping pong balls favor this team. And will GM Rv12 make the right choices. If he does the Pistons could be on the fast track to playoffs
17. Phoenix Suns
The revolving door at the Suns locker room may finally stopped. GM Matt has rolled the dice at the Vegas craps table and hopes they land on 7. The Suns went from playoff contender to lottery lovers. Suns fans hope he doesn't crap out.
Key Assets
SF Hedo Turkoglu (22)
SG Joe Johnson (20)
PG Gilbert Arenas (19)
Three 1st round Lottery Picks
The Future
The Suns could go from chumps to champs overnight. Another GM with a ton of pressure to make the right picks come draft night, GM Matt has some room for failure because he already has 3 young studs in waiting. Arenas, Johnson and Hedo could grow into a super 3 but will need a few years before they alone can lead this team to western conference title dreams.
16. Seattle Sonics
The lights turned on the Sonics down the stretch this year. This team underperformed all year and was an extreme disappointment. But this team is still one of the most talented team in the west and will be a force to recon with.
Key Assets
PF Al Harrington (21)
SF Dirk Nowitzki (23)
SG Stephan Jackson (21)
The Future
The Sonic fell short of a playoff birth this year but this may be the last year in a very long time they miss the playoffs. Dirk, Al and Stephen are too good for this team not to be a major factor next year in the west. Seattle could be one of the top 4 teams in the west next year.
15. New Jersey Nets
The Nets proved they can hang with the big boys of the Eastern Conference this year. And look to get better with age. Allen Iverson has had a great year and should be in MVP talk yearly. But help is definitely needed as this is not one of the most talented teams in the east. They have played above there talent. The Nets took advantage of former Bucks GM and was able to secure there first round pick who could turn out to be the number 1 overall.
Key Assets
PG Allen Iverson (26)
C Ben Wallace (27)
2002 1st round Pick (Bucks)
The Future
On draft night 2002 the Nets could take a major step forward as a yearly contender to win the Eastern Conference. Yao Ming or Jay Williams would be great fits on this team and another star to go along with AI.
14. Los Angeles Lakers
Lead by MVP candidate Jason Kidd the Lakers are one of the best teams in the west. But truth be told how many years can Jason score at this clip. Lakers may need to find some help for Jason because asking him to score 25 plus a night may be to much in years to come.
Key Assets
PG Jason Kidd (28)
PF Tyson Chandler (19)
C Sammy Dalembert (20)
The Future
The Lakers will need the twin towers to grow up in a hurry if they want to keep at the top of the western conference standings. Another scorer on the wings would also be nice. You really don't want Kidd to be the leading scorer on your team next year. If Tyson and Chandler continue to improve the Lakers will stick around as a top contender. If not lower seeded playoff birth may be the highlight for years to come.
13. Dallas Mavericks
GM Dumptime took a big risk to throw away the future to win now. Unfortunately he did not expect one of his big 3 to fall flat on his face. For the Mavs to be title contenders Richard Jefferson must step his game up.
Key Assets
C Tim Duncan (25)
SF Richard Jefferson (21)
SG Ray Allen (26)
The Future
What will become of Richard Jefferson? That will determin how far Dallas goes in the future. With Tim Duncan and Ray Allen the Mavs are locks for the playoffs. But winning titles will lay on the shoulders of Jefferson. Dallas may want to address the PG position. Father time is catching up to mookie he may not have many years in the tank. He will be a big hole to fill.
12. Utah Jazz
How the hell is the team so good? That is the question some have asked. Simple play solid defense, share the ball, take good shots and hit lots of 3's. The Jazz have shot the ball well from beyond the line. But a late injury to Gary Payton has dimmed the Jazz chances to come out of the west.
Key Assets
PG Gary Payton (33)
SG Corey Maggette (21)
PF Raef LaFrentz (25)
The Future
The glove is the gas to this motor. This team depends on him to go. Problem is Gary is 33 and how long can he play at this high level. The Jazz window should be open for the next few years. But the replacement for the glove will be needed soon and unfortunately for the Jazz he is not on the roster. The window could close quick once Gary retires.
11. Chicago Bulls
8 trades in the first year at the helm F. Bankz is not shy to make a move if it helps his team. T-Mac carried a young and unproductive roster early in the year. But then Bankz made a late deal to get Jermaine O'Neal, Mike Bibby and Scottie Pippen and the Bulls began a climb up the standings. A late hiccup cost the Bulls a playoff spot.
Key Assets
PG Mike Bibby (23)
SF Tracy McGrady (22)
PF Jermaine O'Neal (23)
The Future
F. Bankz made a late deal sending Scottie Pippen to the Grizzlies for a 1st round pick. That move could be key to a post season run for the Bulls. Bankz will look to find a SG or SF to fill in the starting five. The Bulls are to talented not to make the playoffs next year. T-Mac and JO will be giving nightmares to teams for years to come.
10. Charlotte Eastern Conference Powerhouse Hornets
Fighting for there playoff lives all year the Eastern Conference Powerhouse Hornets look to be playing well down the road. Rashard Lewis should be getting MVP consideration and is one of the best players in the league.
Key Assets
PG Darrell Armstrong (33)
SG Derrek Anderson (27)
SF Rashard Lewis (22)
The Future
The Eastern Conference Powerhouse Hornets are filled with players in there prime or entering there prime. They should be a factor in the eastern conference for years to come. With Tony Delk backing up an older Armstrong the Magic should be fine once Armstrong retires.
9. Cleveland Cavaliers
The two headed monster of Elton Brand and Stephon Marbury are taking the east by storm. With Raja Bell, Ruben Patterson and Jason Collins key role players the Cavs have ended the year as one of the hottest teams in the east.
Key Assets
PG Stephon Marbury (24)
SF Ruben Patterson (26)
PF Elton Brand (22)
The Future
Cleveland is a well built team from top to bottom. Marbury and Brand should keep this team at the top of the east. If they could find a 3rd scorer the Cavs could entertain title visions
8. Boston Celtics
One of the best starting fives in all of basketball the Celtics have taken care of business with a win now mentality. Chris Webber leads a talented group that will challenge Toronto for eastern conference champs.
Key Assets
PG Damon Staudimire (28)
PF Pau Gasol (22)
PF Chris Webber (28)
The Future
What will they do with Pau? Move him to Center or keep him at PF and slide an aging Chris Webber to C. Either way the Celtics could be primed to take over as top dog in the east in a year or two.
7. Houston Rockets
One of only 2 Western Conference teams to be in the Top 10 Houston has the most talented team in the west. Lead by Vince Carter and Kurt Thomas and Big Z the Rockets present so many match up issues for teams in the NBA. Oh they also have one of the best on the ball defenders in the league with Shane Battier.
Key Assets
SG Vince Carter (24)
SF Shane Battier ( 23)
C Big Z (26)
The Future
The Rockets will be title contenders for the next 5 to 7 years. The West is weak and they should not have much trouble getting to the finals fresh. But beating one of the east monsters is going to be difficult.
6. Philadelphia 76ers
My pick for MVP plays for the 76ers. Not the most talented team in the east but yet Grant Hill has the Sixers as a title contender. But its hard to argue against these numbers 30pts 7rebs 4asst and 2 steals. MVP yeah he has my vote.
Key Assets
SF Grant Hill (29)
PF Antonio McDyess (27)
Bulls 2002 1st round pick (lotto)
The Future
The Sixers have a great chance to add more talent to this team. With two 1st round picks in the 2002 draft including 1 lotto pick Philadelphia could give more weapons to help ease the burden on McDyess and Hill's shoulders. With a little luck the Sixers could find them selves at the top of the east for the next 10 years.
5. Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are the highest rated team in the power rankings. Just cracking the top 5. But don't sleep on this team talent it has. Probably the most talented stating five in the west , the Warriors are no pushovers.
Key Assets
PG Steve Nash (27)
SG Allen Houston (30)
SF Keith Van Horn (26)
The Future
The window for a championship is wide open for the Warriors. But can the cash in the check? Time will tell but with the West weak and this team in the prime they should have multiple chances at the title. Lets hope they don't become the Buffalo Bills of the NBA
4. Atlanta Hawks
If I told you that your best two players would play a combine 64 games and yet you are 15 games over .500 that should tell you all you need to know about how talented the Atlanta Hawks are. Oh and 15 games over .500 puts you 15.5 games out of the number 1 seed in the East. That should tell you how good the East is.
Key Assets
PG Nick Van Excel (29)
SG Jamal Mashburn (28)
SF Antwan Jamison (25)
PF Kevin Garnett (25)
The Future
Toronto does not have the East locked up. Atlanta will be a major factor for the next 7 -10 years. Garnett and Van Excel both got hit hard by the injury bug. Hopefully its a blimp on the screen and not a preview of the things to come.
3. Washington Bullets
Shaq leads a team filled with role players. Feed the Diesel and he will lead the way. The Bullets are built for the regular season and will have to prove playoff worth.
Key Assets
C Shaquille O'Neal (29)
SF Peja Stojakovik (24)
SG Bonzi Wells (24)
The Future
As long as the Diesel is healthy this team will be a contender. Washington has some parts to move if they feel they need another major star to help shaq. But it looks like Eric Snow is as good as it will get. Its on Shaq to win it all.
2. Orlando Magic
Orlando had played lights out all season. Keeping pace with the Toronto Raptors and keeping them honest. Rasheed Wallace is having a career year and is a match up nightmare for opposing teams. He is able to stretch the court and take nonathletic PF out on beyond the ark.
Key Assets
PF Rasheed Wallace (27)
SF Shareef Abdur-Rahim (24)
PG Sam Cassell ( 31)
The Future
The Future is now or never for Orlando. Hakeem may or may not be back for the 2003 season. Its not a lock he returns for a title run in 2002 so Orlando must try to win now. Sam Cassell is having an outstanding year but also is long in the tooth. Two major position that could change the balance of power in the east if needed to be replaced.
1. Toronto Raptors
It's not a surprise this team is number 1 in the rankings. The class of the NBA this team has dominated the entire year. Running impressive win streaks some longer the the win total of the Bucks.
Key Assets
PF Karl Malone (38)
SF Michael Jordan (38)
PF Terrell Brandon (31)
The Future
As long as Mike, Karl and Terrell are on this team the championship is a possibility. But even with Kobe Bryant on the team the Raptors are bound to fall in the east standing once that trio calls it a career. Hopefully for the NBA contenders that call it a career after the 2001 season.
29. Milwaukee Bucks
After the shocking first round selection of Eric Chenowith along with moving there 2002 1st round pick that capped off a horrible creation draft, Bucks owner jacksonduck had to make a change at the GM position. Instead of going out side the organization he chose to take over role as Owner/GM/Head Coach. The Bucks quickly made some strong moves shedding againg vets for draft picks and a young small forward in Mike Miller. But then out of the blue Jackson moves some of there future in a bold move to get Jerry Stackhouse. Only time will tell if this move will backfire on the Bucks but Stackhouse has always been a targeted player for Milwaukee.
Key Assets
SF Mike Miller (21)
SG Jerry Stackhouse (26)
C Eric Chenowith (22)
PF Michael Wright (21)
2002 1st round pick (Celtics)
2002 1st round pick (Grizzlies)
TheFuture
It's going to take a long time for this organization to get back to a level of respectability. Unfortunately they have traded away there 1st round picks in '02 and '03. So rebuilding will be slow. Hopefully Jackson can make two solid selections in the 2002 1st round along with the three second round picks.
28. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are a team with no direction and very few assets. One of the older teams in the league they struggle to score and defend game in and out. The Spurs count on Jalen Rose and Corliss Williamson to carry the load and as this season pointed out they are not up for the challenge. Spurs GM Herky has not been very active and really has given fans a reason to believe in his ability.
Key Assets
C Kwame Brown (19)
PF Corliss Williamson (27)
SG Jalen Rose (28)
The Future
Not very bright. The Spurs have not hit bottom yet. A scary thought. Herky will need to show leadership and vision to lead this team. But for the near future expect to see a lot of ping pong balls.
27. Indiana Pacers
The Pacers have had major issues all year finding scoring. The team has averaged just 93 points a game. This team will need to find a go to scorer as its leading scorer Quintin Richardson is only averaging just 18.2 points a game. This team has some building blocks but has remained un-active in the trade market to this point. Deciding to play it cool and see what may fall to them. With all the current picks available to them Indiana will look to find a true superstar with there Lottery pick.
Key Assets
PG Tony Parker (19)
SG Quinton Richardson (21)
SF Gerald Wallace (19)
PF Lamar Odom (21)
The Future
Pacers have 4 very good building blocks but are still a few years off from being a playoff contender. But Indiana is doing a good job of mixing some very young prospects with some solid vets to show them the ropes. If Parker and Wallace make solid steps Indiana could be a fun team to watch next year.
26. Sacramento Kings
The kings have been extremely active in the first year of the NBA league. But to this point what are they doing? Depends on what direction the wind blows. In recent weeks GM Heel/Tiger has stuck with building with youth for the future he has picked up multiple 1st round picks. He also trusted his scouts and got Joe Forte in a move that people around the league felt was just a throw in player for a big time 3 way deal that went down before the trade deadline. Forte looks to be a star in the making.
Key Assets
PG Joe Forte (20)
SG Jamal Crawford (21)
SF Mike Bradley (21)
4 1st round picks in the next 3 years
The Future
The Kings have gone with a full blown youth movement. Taking a risk that young player like Crawford, Forte and Bradley can develop into superstars. But Crawford has shown in Chicago and now in Sacramento that hey may not be ready for that role. Player development and scouting will be key for the Kings. Having the youngest team in the league will mean taking some serious bumps for a few years.
25. Denver Nuggets
Another young western conference team the Denver Nuggets have gone with youth. Being led by 20 year old Zach Randolph and his 24 points and 8 rebounds a game have proven to be a bright spot on a under performing team. Denver is banking on some of the other young players to develop so Denver can compete in the west.
Key Assets
PF Zach Randolph (20)
SG Larry Hughes (21)
SF Ron Artest (21)
2002 1st round lottery pick
The Future
The Nuggets will hope for a high draft choice so they can bring in help for budding superstar Zach Randolph. If not they may be banking on Artest and Hughes to take a big step forward. But one thing is for sure Zach Randolph has arrived and team in the Western Conference better take notice.
24. Minnesota Fighting Kahns
Defense, Defense, Defense but who going to score? That is the question everyone in T-Wolves country has been asking. Well to this point only Eddie Jones. But at 30 years old how long can Eddie keep up his pace. At some point Wolves GM Ianboyd will need to find someone to fill the basket. Till then Minnesota will fall down the standings.
Key Assets
C Brendan Haywood (21)
PF Stomile Swift (21)
SG Eddie Jones (30)
The Future
The Wolves need to find scoring and find it asap. But with only the Jazz pick in 2002 1st round help is not likely on the way. Its clear Ian could care less about scoring choosing to focus he training on defensive skills. 2003 may be the key off-season for Wolves fans. Till then expect to see some ugly basketball.
23. Portland Trailblazers
Portland made a huge effort to land Andre Miller in the creation draft and thus far he has lived up to the billing. Problem is the only other player on the roster willing to put in top effort on a nightly basis is Rip Hamilton. Portland may need to call up the Minnesota T-Wolves fellow western conference bottom dweller and see if they can find someone willing to play defense.
Key Assets
C Eddy Curry (19)
SG Rip Hamilton (23)
PG Andre Miller (25)
The Future
The Blazers future success depends solely on the progress of young Eddie Curry. Work ethic and a desire to get better have been huge question marks for Eddy to this point. A change of attitude this off-season could do wonders for his game and Portland's future. If Eddy can be motivated for a full year the Blazers have a shot of competing for a playoff spot in a weak western conference.
22. Vancouver Grizzlies
The Grizzlies are a playoff team this year but have hit there summit. Not much upside left in this team. The Grizz will need to decide to either keep with the older vets like Stockton, Sprewell, Ewing and Morning or blow it up. Right now Vancouver is the definition of average. A .500 team that gives up 93 points a game and scores 93 points a game.
Key Assets
C Alonzo Morning (31)
SG Latrell Sprewell (31)
PG John Stockton (39)
The Future
The Grizzlies brain trust will need to ask some tough choices. Continue on with this old team and hope they can make a playoff run next year or blow it up and re-build this team. Either way this team is not a championship contender. If they do decide to blow things up lots of contenders may be knocking on there door for the final piece to put them over the top.
21. Miami Heat
Miami did not have a good year. Another team taking a chance to look to the 2003 NBA draft then focus on this year. Miami have a nice mix of vets and youth but the team is lacking defensive skills. They have a minus 9 score differential per game. Maimi will need to address this if they want to compete in a loaded eastern conference.
Key Assets
SF Paul Pierce (24)
PF Eddie Griffin (20)
4 First round picks in the next 3 years
The Future
A "Help Wanted" sign should be posted in front of Paul Pierce locker. Miami are looking at the 2003 draft and willing to take lumps along the way. In a stacked East the Heat have no chance of making the playoffs for the next few years. Get used to seeing a lot of empty seats in Miami. As I would rather be in south beach then watch this Miami Heat team play.
20. New York Knicks
The highest scoring team is also the team that gives up the most points a game. Some of that has to do with style some with players lack of effort on the defensive end of the court. The Knicks are a older team built around Stevie Franchise. And have tried to out score opponents every night to mixed results.
Key Assets
PG Steve Francis (24)
SF Penny Hardaway (30)
PF Antwan Walker (25)
The Future
The Knicks are not a young team. Steve and Antwan are in there primes but the supporting cast is aging and not getting better. The Knicks are another team that may want to move some vets for future picks or young players to build around there big two. I think the Knicks will take a step back next year.
19. Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers looked to be cruising this year but hit a wall towards the end of the season. A locker room conflict could be the reason for the down hill slide. They will need to find the love in the off-season. B-Diddy is a young superstar, the sky is the limit for this young PG.
Key Assets
PG Baron Davis (22)
C Marcus Camby (27)
SG Jason Terry (24)
The Future
Move over Lakers. LA may soon become Clipper land. Baron is stud who is getting better. Coach Ocho is expecting Jason Terry and Marcus Camby to take another step forward to help Baron out next year. Play-offs and Western Conference finals could be in the near future.
18. Detroit Pistons
Detroit was a horrible basketball team this year. But they have some good young players and draft picks. Its going to be up to Rv12 to make this team go because this year was unacceptable for fans of this once proud franchise.
Key Assets
SG Jason Richardson (21)
SF Darius Miles (20)
3 lottery Picks in the 2002 NBA draft
The Future
Its all on management. They asked the fans to take the lumps for this year in hopes of landing players like Yao Ming, Jay Williams and Carmello Anthony. Now will the ping pong balls favor this team. And will GM Rv12 make the right choices. If he does the Pistons could be on the fast track to playoffs
17. Phoenix Suns
The revolving door at the Suns locker room may finally stopped. GM Matt has rolled the dice at the Vegas craps table and hopes they land on 7. The Suns went from playoff contender to lottery lovers. Suns fans hope he doesn't crap out.
Key Assets
SF Hedo Turkoglu (22)
SG Joe Johnson (20)
PG Gilbert Arenas (19)
Three 1st round Lottery Picks
The Future
The Suns could go from chumps to champs overnight. Another GM with a ton of pressure to make the right picks come draft night, GM Matt has some room for failure because he already has 3 young studs in waiting. Arenas, Johnson and Hedo could grow into a super 3 but will need a few years before they alone can lead this team to western conference title dreams.
16. Seattle Sonics
The lights turned on the Sonics down the stretch this year. This team underperformed all year and was an extreme disappointment. But this team is still one of the most talented team in the west and will be a force to recon with.
Key Assets
PF Al Harrington (21)
SF Dirk Nowitzki (23)
SG Stephan Jackson (21)
The Future
The Sonic fell short of a playoff birth this year but this may be the last year in a very long time they miss the playoffs. Dirk, Al and Stephen are too good for this team not to be a major factor next year in the west. Seattle could be one of the top 4 teams in the west next year.
15. New Jersey Nets
The Nets proved they can hang with the big boys of the Eastern Conference this year. And look to get better with age. Allen Iverson has had a great year and should be in MVP talk yearly. But help is definitely needed as this is not one of the most talented teams in the east. They have played above there talent. The Nets took advantage of former Bucks GM and was able to secure there first round pick who could turn out to be the number 1 overall.
Key Assets
PG Allen Iverson (26)
C Ben Wallace (27)
2002 1st round Pick (Bucks)
The Future
On draft night 2002 the Nets could take a major step forward as a yearly contender to win the Eastern Conference. Yao Ming or Jay Williams would be great fits on this team and another star to go along with AI.
14. Los Angeles Lakers
Lead by MVP candidate Jason Kidd the Lakers are one of the best teams in the west. But truth be told how many years can Jason score at this clip. Lakers may need to find some help for Jason because asking him to score 25 plus a night may be to much in years to come.
Key Assets
PG Jason Kidd (28)
PF Tyson Chandler (19)
C Sammy Dalembert (20)
The Future
The Lakers will need the twin towers to grow up in a hurry if they want to keep at the top of the western conference standings. Another scorer on the wings would also be nice. You really don't want Kidd to be the leading scorer on your team next year. If Tyson and Chandler continue to improve the Lakers will stick around as a top contender. If not lower seeded playoff birth may be the highlight for years to come.
13. Dallas Mavericks
GM Dumptime took a big risk to throw away the future to win now. Unfortunately he did not expect one of his big 3 to fall flat on his face. For the Mavs to be title contenders Richard Jefferson must step his game up.
Key Assets
C Tim Duncan (25)
SF Richard Jefferson (21)
SG Ray Allen (26)
The Future
What will become of Richard Jefferson? That will determin how far Dallas goes in the future. With Tim Duncan and Ray Allen the Mavs are locks for the playoffs. But winning titles will lay on the shoulders of Jefferson. Dallas may want to address the PG position. Father time is catching up to mookie he may not have many years in the tank. He will be a big hole to fill.
12. Utah Jazz
How the hell is the team so good? That is the question some have asked. Simple play solid defense, share the ball, take good shots and hit lots of 3's. The Jazz have shot the ball well from beyond the line. But a late injury to Gary Payton has dimmed the Jazz chances to come out of the west.
Key Assets
PG Gary Payton (33)
SG Corey Maggette (21)
PF Raef LaFrentz (25)
The Future
The glove is the gas to this motor. This team depends on him to go. Problem is Gary is 33 and how long can he play at this high level. The Jazz window should be open for the next few years. But the replacement for the glove will be needed soon and unfortunately for the Jazz he is not on the roster. The window could close quick once Gary retires.
11. Chicago Bulls
8 trades in the first year at the helm F. Bankz is not shy to make a move if it helps his team. T-Mac carried a young and unproductive roster early in the year. But then Bankz made a late deal to get Jermaine O'Neal, Mike Bibby and Scottie Pippen and the Bulls began a climb up the standings. A late hiccup cost the Bulls a playoff spot.
Key Assets
PG Mike Bibby (23)
SF Tracy McGrady (22)
PF Jermaine O'Neal (23)
The Future
F. Bankz made a late deal sending Scottie Pippen to the Grizzlies for a 1st round pick. That move could be key to a post season run for the Bulls. Bankz will look to find a SG or SF to fill in the starting five. The Bulls are to talented not to make the playoffs next year. T-Mac and JO will be giving nightmares to teams for years to come.
10. Charlotte Eastern Conference Powerhouse Hornets
Fighting for there playoff lives all year the Eastern Conference Powerhouse Hornets look to be playing well down the road. Rashard Lewis should be getting MVP consideration and is one of the best players in the league.
Key Assets
PG Darrell Armstrong (33)
SG Derrek Anderson (27)
SF Rashard Lewis (22)
The Future
The Eastern Conference Powerhouse Hornets are filled with players in there prime or entering there prime. They should be a factor in the eastern conference for years to come. With Tony Delk backing up an older Armstrong the Magic should be fine once Armstrong retires.
9. Cleveland Cavaliers
The two headed monster of Elton Brand and Stephon Marbury are taking the east by storm. With Raja Bell, Ruben Patterson and Jason Collins key role players the Cavs have ended the year as one of the hottest teams in the east.
Key Assets
PG Stephon Marbury (24)
SF Ruben Patterson (26)
PF Elton Brand (22)
The Future
Cleveland is a well built team from top to bottom. Marbury and Brand should keep this team at the top of the east. If they could find a 3rd scorer the Cavs could entertain title visions
8. Boston Celtics
One of the best starting fives in all of basketball the Celtics have taken care of business with a win now mentality. Chris Webber leads a talented group that will challenge Toronto for eastern conference champs.
Key Assets
PG Damon Staudimire (28)
PF Pau Gasol (22)
PF Chris Webber (28)
The Future
What will they do with Pau? Move him to Center or keep him at PF and slide an aging Chris Webber to C. Either way the Celtics could be primed to take over as top dog in the east in a year or two.
7. Houston Rockets
One of only 2 Western Conference teams to be in the Top 10 Houston has the most talented team in the west. Lead by Vince Carter and Kurt Thomas and Big Z the Rockets present so many match up issues for teams in the NBA. Oh they also have one of the best on the ball defenders in the league with Shane Battier.
Key Assets
SG Vince Carter (24)
SF Shane Battier ( 23)
C Big Z (26)
The Future
The Rockets will be title contenders for the next 5 to 7 years. The West is weak and they should not have much trouble getting to the finals fresh. But beating one of the east monsters is going to be difficult.
6. Philadelphia 76ers
My pick for MVP plays for the 76ers. Not the most talented team in the east but yet Grant Hill has the Sixers as a title contender. But its hard to argue against these numbers 30pts 7rebs 4asst and 2 steals. MVP yeah he has my vote.
Key Assets
SF Grant Hill (29)
PF Antonio McDyess (27)
Bulls 2002 1st round pick (lotto)
The Future
The Sixers have a great chance to add more talent to this team. With two 1st round picks in the 2002 draft including 1 lotto pick Philadelphia could give more weapons to help ease the burden on McDyess and Hill's shoulders. With a little luck the Sixers could find them selves at the top of the east for the next 10 years.
5. Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are the highest rated team in the power rankings. Just cracking the top 5. But don't sleep on this team talent it has. Probably the most talented stating five in the west , the Warriors are no pushovers.
Key Assets
PG Steve Nash (27)
SG Allen Houston (30)
SF Keith Van Horn (26)
The Future
The window for a championship is wide open for the Warriors. But can the cash in the check? Time will tell but with the West weak and this team in the prime they should have multiple chances at the title. Lets hope they don't become the Buffalo Bills of the NBA
4. Atlanta Hawks
If I told you that your best two players would play a combine 64 games and yet you are 15 games over .500 that should tell you all you need to know about how talented the Atlanta Hawks are. Oh and 15 games over .500 puts you 15.5 games out of the number 1 seed in the East. That should tell you how good the East is.
Key Assets
PG Nick Van Excel (29)
SG Jamal Mashburn (28)
SF Antwan Jamison (25)
PF Kevin Garnett (25)
The Future
Toronto does not have the East locked up. Atlanta will be a major factor for the next 7 -10 years. Garnett and Van Excel both got hit hard by the injury bug. Hopefully its a blimp on the screen and not a preview of the things to come.
3. Washington Bullets
Shaq leads a team filled with role players. Feed the Diesel and he will lead the way. The Bullets are built for the regular season and will have to prove playoff worth.
Key Assets
C Shaquille O'Neal (29)
SF Peja Stojakovik (24)
SG Bonzi Wells (24)
The Future
As long as the Diesel is healthy this team will be a contender. Washington has some parts to move if they feel they need another major star to help shaq. But it looks like Eric Snow is as good as it will get. Its on Shaq to win it all.
2. Orlando Magic
Orlando had played lights out all season. Keeping pace with the Toronto Raptors and keeping them honest. Rasheed Wallace is having a career year and is a match up nightmare for opposing teams. He is able to stretch the court and take nonathletic PF out on beyond the ark.
Key Assets
PF Rasheed Wallace (27)
SF Shareef Abdur-Rahim (24)
PG Sam Cassell ( 31)
The Future
The Future is now or never for Orlando. Hakeem may or may not be back for the 2003 season. Its not a lock he returns for a title run in 2002 so Orlando must try to win now. Sam Cassell is having an outstanding year but also is long in the tooth. Two major position that could change the balance of power in the east if needed to be replaced.
1. Toronto Raptors
It's not a surprise this team is number 1 in the rankings. The class of the NBA this team has dominated the entire year. Running impressive win streaks some longer the the win total of the Bucks.
Key Assets
PF Karl Malone (38)
SF Michael Jordan (38)
PF Terrell Brandon (31)
The Future
As long as Mike, Karl and Terrell are on this team the championship is a possibility. But even with Kobe Bryant on the team the Raptors are bound to fall in the east standing once that trio calls it a career. Hopefully for the NBA contenders that call it a career after the 2001 season.
