Game 1 in the bag…
February 25, 2008Cavaliers Preview Game #57
February 25, 2008It isn’t every day that a Sunday evening game against the Grizzlies would draw as much scrutiny as yesterday’s contest did, but thankfully for those watching at home (as well as those in attendance), the result was a favorable one. As Rick already discussed, there is plenty of things to be happy about. There are also some that will take time to iron out, but overall – a great start.
And for those that questioned the ability of Ben Wallace on the offensive end, hopefully yesterday eased your mind a bit. Mike Brown consistently popped Wallace out to the top of the key to set picks, which resulted in easy jump shots – thankfully, ones that were converted. After the Grizzlies caught on, they double-teamed whomever was at the top (usually LeBron), allowing Wallace to streak to the hoop with several easily-converted pick-and-rolls. If teams want to double Ilgauskas a bit outside, feel free. Big Ben should be there to convert the point-blank finish. Oh, and Joe Smith is lethal from the baseline as well. Have fun with that.
I won’t get ahead of myself just yet, as it was the Memphis Grizzlies. I mean, they have Kwame Brown AND Darko Milicic. If they add Sam Bowie, it could complete the trifecta. Cavs fans should be thankful that we play Milwaukee and Minnesota in two of the next three games. The contest against Boston will be very, very telling. Even the biggest Boston fan in the world thinks that the Cavaliers are the favorites to win the East. Let’s just hope this didn’t jinx it.
Oh look. Another media member jumping on the LeBron-New Jersey-Jay-Z bandwagon. And it’s an “Exclusive!”
A friend just emailed me to tell me something he heard on NFL Radio yesterday, and it is confirmed by Mary Kay Cabot.
The Browns are offering a three-year deal worth about $18 million. Anderson’s side is more interested in a six-year deal worth at least $68 million, but have also proposed a three-year deal with a substantially higher dollar value than the Browns offer.
Six years, $68 million? They may as well change the name on his jersey to “Tender” and call it a day. It’s not worth the struggles – especially when the team is discussing contracts with Kellen Winslow, and has free agents to consider. Bernard Barrian?
“Bartolo Colon Signs With Red Sox, Still Fat.” ‘Nuff said.
Enjoy your Monday, people.
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8 Comments
I love how DA thinks that Romo’s deal was even a little low. DA needs to get a grip on reality. He’s not getting 6 years or $68 million from Cleveland. I hear the sound of the one year max tender on the horizon.
Love the trade. I know it was only the D-League Memphis team… but who cares. What a nice three game stretch to find some rhythm with each other.
(just found this blog. Thank you. This seems to be the perfect blog 4 my liking!)
GO CAVS
GO BROWNS
GO TRIBE
Glad to have you, Jeremy. Stop by often…
Thanks for the feedback Jeremy. We’re happy you found us.
The Cavs are going to be a juggernaut defensively. West gives them an element that they haven’t had (guard pressure!) and the big men will be ridiculous.
I love how a lot of fans were saying that the Cavs may take a step back offensively. Really? With the 3pt shooters, offensive rebounding, West’s ability to penetrate and the mid-range game of both Z and Joe Smith, the Cavaliers will be able to make shots from all over the court. This team greatly improved its depth.
(as for DA: adios amigo! Good luck with life my friend, a great first half of a season does not a franchise quarterback make).
I agree with all of that Ben. The ball movement on offense was a shock to the senses. West runs the pick and roll better than any PG the Cavs have had since Andre Miller….and he doesn’t have an on court rapport with these guys yet. The offense is only going to get better. And I hope people aren’t fooled by the 2-12 shooting night, either. West is a better shooter than that.
oh man, im so pumped i found this blog.
i can already tell im gonna love it.
I actually found myself a little excited to watch the Cavaliers last night. I can’t even tell you when I was excited to watch basketball, being that I hate it. But I will say this is a much better team after the trade. Three of the four can shoot and play defense. Two of four can rebound pretty well. This adds a lot. I hate to admit it, but I may agree with Bill Simmons for the first time in a long time.
As for DA, he should change his name to DB. Douchebag. Tender him and be done. Good riddance. If we need back up, I think Chad Pennington is out there. Or maybe Todd Collins. The Brady Quinn era is set to begin.