May 25, 2013

Antawn Jamison Calls Cleveland “Home”

One look around the Cavaliers practice facility at Cleveland Clinic Courts in Independence, Ohio and the casual fan would have a tough time putting names to a lot of faces.  Gone are LeBron James, Delonte West and Zydrunas Ilgauskas;  in attendance are players such as Joey Graham, Christian Eyenga and Ryan Hollins.  But while many of these new players are still getting acclimated to the Cleveland area, Antawn Jamison is home.

“This is home for me,” said Jamison earlier this week.  ”It’s starting to feel like home.  I have my patterns down and I know exactly what’s going on.  Last year was a whirlwind, trying to get everything down and get used to everybody.  I’ve been here for a couple of weeks now and it feels like it’s supposed to feel.”

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NBA Trade Rumors – Cavs, Suns, Wizards, Mavs

So, this won’t be a really substantial post, but thanks to one of the best beat writers in the NBA, we have some updated trade info.  First, before getting to the Cavs, let us first talk about the Wizards.  Word has it that the Wizards are very very close to unloading Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood to Dallas for Josh Howard, Drew Gooden and some other salary matching pieces.  As a result, it appears that Antawn Jamison will not be going anywhere.  At least that is the prevailing thought right now.  Remember that the prevailing thought this morning had us all terrified that Boston was going to land Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler in a deal that would have made Pau Gasol blush.

So, according to Brian Windhorst, the Cavs are going heavily after Amar’e Stoudemire.  It appears that in order to pull off the deal, the Cavs might also have to come up with enough salary to also take Jason Richardson in the deal.  Combined, that means the Cavs need to find just under $30 million in salaries.  According to Windy, the Cavs might need to use both Wally Szczerbiak and Lorenzen Wright.  I also assume the Cavs would have to give up Zydrunas and JJ Hickson should the deal go down as described on this late Friday night.

We will continue to cover all the news and rumors throughout the weekend, but keep in mind that no deals can be announced over the all-star break.

On LeBron James and Sports Hate

LeBron Crybaby T-ShirtThis might be the most obvious post I ever write.  Then again, I think it might be time to really talk about this a little bit.  With all the problems that the Wizards have today with Gilbert Arenas and the fact that their “big three” of Arenas, Jamison and Butler have failed to materialize as a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, there seems to be a lot of sniping at LeBron James.  Yes, there is a history between the teams in the playoffs and the situation with LeBron and DeShawn Stevenson.  Some of the reason that the Wizards never got over the hump is because LeBron is just that good.  Then again, I don’t think we ever truly saw this Wizards roster at its best due to injuries.  Regardless, what ends up being tangible out of the whole situation in the NBA is the hate directed at LeBron James, and it isn’t just from Wizards fans.  I think it is worth exploring a bit, because as Cleveland fans, we know a lot about sports hate.

Sports hate isn’t truly hate, for the record.  When I say I hate someone in the sports world it isn’t meant to be as ugly as if I hated my neighbor who I know and could potentially interact with.  So let’s get that out of the way first.  I can’t stand Braylon Edwards, but if he was trapped under a wrecked car, I would certainly do everything I could to try and help him.  In that respect sports hate is far from real hate in my opinion.

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While We’re Waiting… Gilbert Arenas in Cleveland, Tortured Teams and Chris Palmer

While We’re Waiting serves as the early morning gathering (even on the weekends) of WFNY-esque information for your viewing pleasure. Have something else you think we should see? Send it to our tips email at tips@waitingfornextyear.com.

Gilbert ArenasAn interesting concept here with the beginning of the buzz. Considering the fact that the #FreeAntawn movement still has three more weeks left, this could be something to look at down the road: “One source close to the situation told ESPN.com that Arenas ultimately landing in Cleveland with the team that has regularly tortured the Wizards in recent seasons — as a sidekick whose arrival would theoretically help the Cavs ensure the re-signing of LeBron James — is a legit possibility to file away.” [Marc Stein/Weekend Dime]

Bill Simmons posted his top 15 rankings of the most tortured franchises in sports yesterday afternoon. Definite must-read for all Cleveland fans out there as our three beloved teams made the top ten complete with this claim about LeBron and the Cavaliers: “For all we know, this season is their last chance with LeBron. It’s going to be like a mutant version of the 1992 Pirates during Barry Bonds’ last season — desperation mixed with urgency — but in this case, Cavs fans won’t have the ‘We Are Family’ title from 1979 to cushion the blow if things go wrong. Just writing about this makes me uneasy.” [ESPN.com]
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Cavs 121, Wizards 98: Never Close

shaqjamisonAfter laying down against Charlotte the Cavaliers came out aggressive and put the Wizards away. Washington was without it’s big gun of course (did I really just go there?) as Arenas sat out the first of his many games due to suspension. Without Gilbert the Wizards looked a bit lost. They played a lot of one-on-one basketball which is a recipe for disaster against the Cavs.

Cleveland’s offense looked good, with plenty of movement and passing. On more than one occasion all 5 players touched the ball before the shot went off. There were still sloppy possessions and unforced turnovers, but those were hardly noticeable against Washington.

Shaquille O’Neal had one of his best games in a Cleveland uniform scoring 17 points in 17 minutes on 9 shots. That’s pretty efficient. Anderson Varejao and LeBron James padded their +/- totals in this one, keeping them in the top 3 in the league. (Andy had a +22, James a +16. If you want to know how strange that stat can be, Shaq had a -1.) [Read more...]

Cavaliers Preview Game #37: Wiz at Cavs

Washington Wizards (11-21) vs
Cleveland Cavaliers (27-9)
Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, OH
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
7:00 PM EST
FSOH/WTAM

Oh boy, where do we even begin with this one? Just two months ago the Wiz came into town boasting a 2-1 record while the Cavs had limped to a 2-2 start, and the confidence of Wizards fans was through the roof. Of course, the Cavaliers came away with 102-90 victory that night and really haven’t looked back. For the Wiz, their journey to this point in time has been completely different. I’m not going to get into the Arenas situation  and the fact that everyone on the team is now trade bait, other than just to say I’m thankful right now to follow the Cavaliers and not the Wizards.

Tonight’s game is one of those ones where perhaps the Wizards will band together, bonded by their recent controversies, their uncertain future status, and their hatred of the Cavaliers to create an Us vs World mentality. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers will make their first attempt to adjusting to life without Jamario Moon tonight. Regardless of all the subplots involved in this matchup, I still expect to see a quality game tonight. After all, the Cavaliers will be wearing their CavFanatic 80s style uniforms with the Wine and Gold colors. With uniforms like these, how can they lose?

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Is Mo Williams an All-Star This Year?

Celtics Cavaliers BasketballThis may come off as a bit reactive due to the shot that Mo Williams drained last night, but it is actually just perfect timing.  Last week, the first batch of NBA All-Star results came out, which means we get to see a few things: 1) Who is China voting for (A: Tracy McGrady), and 2) Who looks to be on the outside looking in?

Williams was named to his first All-Star team of his career last season in a year that was his first with the Cavaliers.  There are undoubtedly a strong number of guards in the Eastern conference pool, and Mo’s body of work has not declined from last season.  But what are the odds that he gets the nod yet again?  Let’s take a look at the current standings for guards in the East. [Read more...]

Cavs/Wizards Open Thread

lebron-deshawn-fightCavs at Wizards tonight. No Shaq, Andy, or Jamario for the Cavs.  Antawn is back for the Wiz.  Game is at 7:00 on WTAM 1100 and ESPN.  Get ready for an earful of LeBron on the Browns talk – ESPN keeps it so fresh!

Also, DC Meetup pre-game.  See you kids at Fado.

Cavaliers Preview Game #5: Wizards at Cavs

Cavaliers vs WizardsWashington Wizards (2-1) vs
Cleveland Cavaliers (2-2)
Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, OH
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
7:00 PM EST
FSOH/WTAM

What a first week it’s been. It’s hard to believe it was just one week ago at this time we were ramping up for the regular season to begin, and our confidence in this team was off the charts at all time highs. After a humbling 0-2 start, however, those expectations came crashing down and turned to desperation and panic. Thankfully, the Cavaliers were able to get some much needed medicine in the form of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Charlotte Bobcats. The team now stands even at 2-2 and looks to move above .500 for the first time this season when they take on their good old friends, the Washington Wizards. I normally play down this mini “rivalry” because I really don’t think the Cavalier players care all that much about it. However, tonight I hope it’s different. This Cavalier team has been lethargic and lifeless for most of this season, and a tough, intense rivalry game could be just what this team needs.  [Read more...]

Cavs Drop Game to Wizards

the-wizWizards 109, Cavs 101 (box)

Nice to know that the Wizards show up when it matters most.  Wait a minute.  This was a regular season game?  Never mind.  The Cavs played a bad game against the Wizards last night.  The Cavs still managed to come back on the Wizards in the second half as they knocked down the Wiz’s 14 point lead.  In the end, the Cavs were unable to hold off the Wizards and they broke up the Cavs’ 13 game winning streak.  Now, the particulars.

  • The player of the night was apparently Darnell Jackson.  His +/- was +12.  He had two points and five rebounds.  He and Mo Williams (+4) were the only players who had +s in the box score.
  • There was much talk about this being the return of Gilbert Arenas, but he looked really rusty.  He was 3-11 shooting and shot a couple real clunkers from beyond the three point line.  It will be interesting to see what kind of player he turns out to be the rest of his career after the knee problems.  Despite the rivalry, I have always enjoyed Gilbert Arenas’ game and how he goes about his business. [Read more...]

While We’re Waiting… Wiz Fans Waiting, Hector Rondon’s Cannon, and B.J. Raji’s Drug Test

While We’re Waiting aims to be the round-up of the recent WFNY-esque information for your morning viewing. Have something you think we should see? Send it to our tips email in the sidebar.

gilbert-arenas 

Sorry, fellas.  The URL’s taken: “Maybe tonight’s win cost us a few ping-pong balls, but at this point, I don’t really care.  This roster just proved that they can beat the best team in the NBA without their upcoming lottery pick.  That has to get you excited for next year.” [JTS/Bullets Forever]

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The Cavaliers’ Free Agency Primer

Baron Davis, Cavalier?  Not Quite.Please note, this article contains content written by both Scott and Rock, with the first half of the story being penned by Scott and the second half by Rock.

As we continue to debate the ever-impressive LeBron going East argument, the list of players that could be leaving their current teams now (as opposed to 2010) has grown considerably over the last 24 hours.

While Baron Davis turned down his $17.8 million offer, the Clippers have also been put on notice for forwards Corey Maggette ($8.4mm) and Elton Brand ($16.4mm).

We all know that Gilbert Arenas opted out of his contract with the Washington Wizards – but there had been speculation that he would be re-signing. He’s been rumored to be willing to accept less-than-max money from the Wizards, assuming the front office were to reallocate his would-be funds to bring in more talent. ‘

Josh Smith, Beno Udrih and James Posey are just a few of the other names you’ll likely hear about over the next few days. But which players could the Cavaliers offer a contract to? [Read more...]

Eastern Conference Round One Game Six

Washington Wizards logoCleveland Cavaliers (45-37, 3-2) vs
Washington Wizards (43-39, 2-3)
Verizon Center, Washington DC
Friday, May 2, 2008
7:00 p.m. ET
ESPN2/FSN OH/WUAB, WTAM

Game 5, chance to clinch the series, at home, up 5 points with 90 seconds left to go and the ball in your possession. If offered up that scenario, you’d take it in a heartbeat. Well, that’s exactly what the Cavaliers had on Wednesday night at the Q, and through good defense by Washington, bad decision making by the Cavaliers, and an attacking and efficienct game plan on offense by the Wizards the Cavaliers found themselves now with only a 3-2 advantage in this series and having to now head to the Capital to try to clinch this series. The good news for Cleveland? In the 3 consecutive seasons playing Washington in the playoffs, the Cavaliers are 5-2 in the Verizon Center and have won 3 of their last 4 close out games on the road. The Cavs are used to being in this position, and they have thrived in it. Can they keep this trend alive tonight? [Read more...]

A Friendly Chat With…Truth About It Dot Net

arenas.jpgWhen you have teams going at each other like the Cavs and Wizards have been, it’s fair to say that fans of those teams won’t see eye to eye. The folks over at Truth About It dot net have questioned some of our analysis. (Ok, mostly mine.) So I thought we’d talk about tonight’s big game and the series in general.

WFNY- First question, are the Wizards really a better team without Arenas on the floor?

Truth About It- The short and sweet answer is yes, right now they are (his injury factors in heavily on my answer). The question everyone will ask is what about Gil and next year (if he stays true to his word on opting-out). I like Gilbert Arenas, he’s a card. I enjoy his charisma and his killer instinct on offense…a prerequisite if a team ever expects to have championship hopes. However, Gilbert has many hills to climb in terms of gaining maturity. I’m optimistic that it can be done, but I just hope his quirkiness doesn’t hold him back.

In your post after game 5, you were pretty pissed at Mike Brown. To myself, and then Prada on Bullets Forever, this seemed like an unfair knee-jerk reaction. Do you feel the same today? The reason I ask is that I’ve been a supporter of Eddie Jordan from day one….but Wizards fans have been back and forth all year….most recently expressing their desire for Mike D’Antoni or Avery Johnson after the Wizards loss in game 4. [Read more...]

Three-Possession Game

Though I’m a big fan of pitcher’s duals, I thought that Game 4 would provide us with a better comic for today.  Thankfully, the entire game can be summarized in the final 28 seconds.  As always, click on the images for the full size file.

Game 4 In The Books

(All photos courtesy of the Associated Press)

LeBron, Backcourt Huge For Game 4

Thug life, baby

Reporting that LeBron James scored 30+ points yet again is barely news.  But only one game after Delonte West and Daniel Gibson combined to go 3-for-9 with nine points, the two guards were absolutely huge during Game 4, combining for 33 points including nine three-point field goals.  West drained one with 5.4 seconds on the game clock to put the Cavs up by three…for good.

Zydrunas Ilgauskas encountered foul trouble early, and only managed to play 28 minutes in this one.  Thankfully, Ben Wallace earned his game check by pulling down 12 rebounds to go with two steals and two blocks.  In fact, the Cavs out-rebounded the Wizards by 20 (51 to 31) thanks to 12 boards from James and eight from Joe Smith.

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Lending a helping hand

When you have the opportunity to do good, you should take it. When someone needs help, by all means please do what you can. That’s why I’d like to take a moment and lend a helping hand to DeShawn Stevenson. It seems DeShawn is having a hard time understanding who Damon Jones is. (From DC Sports Bog)

(Best moments yesterday? Bruce Boudreau walking through the hallway during Wiz interviews, Brendan Haywood reaching out to shake his hand and say “Good luck coach.” Eddie Jordan discussing Wiz fans, saying “when we play a game like we did [Monday] night, heck, they might cheer for Cleveland. And DeShawn Stevenson refusing to address Damon Jones’s hand waggle, saying “I don’t know who Damon Jones is, so it doesn’t matter.”)

Well, I’m certain that a few of your teammates might remember Damon Jones. [Read more...]

Amen, John Hollinger

Forwarded my way from loyal reader Mike, we have this question from John Hollinger’s ESPN Chat today:

Dellis (Washington DC): Are the refs fairly calling the Wizards/Cavs series? The Wizards Big 3 are constantly assaulted, while the King’s travels are never called and he seems to get foul calls on every touch.

SportsNation John Hollinger: (4:04 PM ET ) Washington lost by 30. Refs should be the least of their concerns. They’ve taken a number of unusually hard fouls on LeBron and it finally bit them with the Haywood ejection, though apparently he won’t be suspended. Bottom line, Wash just needs to stop woofing and get back to playing.

I would assume that there comes a point where you stop blaming everyone else and realize that you’re just not playing good basketball.  Heck, we did it here for the majority of the last month.  Not that I want the Wizards to start playing better, I just hope their fans realize that they should focus less on counting would-be steps, and more on cheering on good basketball. 

Second Verse, Same As The First

Since the last comic depicting the latest C.C. Sabathia combustion got such a great response, I thought that a “Game 2″ comic would fit in quite nicely this morning.  And what would a good comic be without a little Agent Zero complete with brick-action as well as that piece of garbage that is Brendan Haywood. 

The only picture that I wish would’ve made the AP reel was something involving Stevenson’s “I can’t feel my face” after making a shot in the third while they were down 20.  Do enjoy! (Click on the picture for the full-sized file)

Cavs Wiz Game 2

(All photos courtesy of the Associated Press)

WWHHIIIIIZZAARRRD!

Washington Wizards logoUm, Washington? You may want to rethink your playoff strategy…

The most dominating playoff performance by a Cavalier team? Check. LeBron gets his, and sets up teammates? Check. Cavalier big men box out and take away second chance opportunities? Check. A shooter other than LeBron knocks down some long range shots? Check. Cavs don’t allow easy baskets? Check. Cavs up 2 games to none, and on an 8-game playoff winning streak against the Wizzies? Check and double check.

It’s hard to write a recap of this game. The Cavaliers simply played the best this roster has ever played together. LeBron’s stat line was filthy, with 30 points, 12 dimes, 9 rebounds and 2 downright nasty blocks. He drove the lane even when he knew he was going to get hammered, which he did. And let’s head off the argument before it starts. The Cavaliers were whistled for 25 fouls to Washington’s 28. [Read more...]