NBA: OT Knack for New York Knicks

By Steve Cernak

Only New York surviving Detroit in triple overtime could shake me from my holiday vacation. I currently live right outside Georgetown in Washington, DC now, so my opportunities to see the Knicks at Madison Square Garden are infrequent, when compared to growing up near the World's Most Famous Arena. I flew into New York in time for the second half of NY's domineering victory over Chicago. Obviously, however, nothing compares to witnessing your favorite team win in 3OT and watching a player take The Next Step.

Fans took pictures of themselves with their significant others towards the end of the fourth quarter. I suppose those pictures are awesome now due to the game's outcome. BUT THIS IS A DECEMBER GAME. Any true Knicks fan understands December games, while fun, are meaningless. True Knicks fans endure a season of excellence, only to lose in May (aka the playoffs) by virtue of Michael Jordan. Just goes to show you how far the Knicks fell, how irrelevant they became. Anyone can get a ticket now, unlike a decade ago. Which is a nice way to say some morons sat in my sections.

Nick, a season ticket holder, yelled "TAKE YOUR JACKETS OFF" to everyone attempting to to beat traffic. If not for his public service announcement, many more would have left. All die-hards expect the Knicks to give up leads and, sure enough, Carlos Delfino hits a game-tying trey at the end of regulation. After Rasheed Wallace fouled out, Flip Saunders eventually settled on a four guard line-up (he played Tayshuan Prince on the perimeter). I knew--hell, everyone knew--Delfino would send the game to OT after watching Isiah Thomas send PF David Lee to guard the sharp-shooting Delfino. Well, everyone except the morons who considered leaving.

The Knicks nearly threw away Marbury's first half gem, the best player of the first 24 minutes. Nothing special the second half, but played an extraordinary game nonetheless. After booing the hell out of the refs for a phantom foul call, the crowd cheered Marbs for the second time in as many home games after fouling out. Instead, Detroit wasted Rip Hamilton's career 51 point performance. Hamilton is a joy to watch. He runs and cuts more than any player I've ever seen live, more so than even Reggie Miller. Hamilton is better than Miller and last night he bolstered his Hall of Fame résumé.

During the first overtime, the referees topped off a horrendously officiated game in grand fashion. While chasing a loose ball, Hamilton knocked it into a referee who had plenty of time to avoid making contact with the ball. Instead, the referee made contact with the ball keeping it inbounds and ran the game clock down close to 30 seconds. The fans booed the refs louder than Jordan and Commissioner David Stern readied pink slips, while my dad noticed the referees' conference at mid court. He claimed "they're discussing the make-up call, there will be one."

Sure enough, the next possession the refs called Billups for a shooting foul on Marbury's three-point attempt. He converted on all three attempts to send the game to 2OT, where he fouled out. Channing Frye forced 3OT, allowing Jamal Crawford to dominate. Man, what a performance. I've been to many Knicks games, but I'm 23-years-old. I didn't see Earl "the Pearl" Monroe or Walt "Clyde" Frazier play and I don't remember Michael Ray Richardson. Crawford is, without a doubt, the most talented of any Knicks guard I've ever seen play.

To me, this wasn't a triple overtime game. This game signaled Crawford knocking on the door of greatness. We'll see. But for the first time in a long-time, I'm full of legitimate hope. Maybe I'll see some June basketball again... in the World's Most Famous Arena.

SPORTS: Allen Iverson's Nuggets Debut, Ohio State-Florida and NFL Match-ups

NBA
Allen Iverson is expected to play Friday night, however, this is contingent on all players in the deal passing physicals. While it appears likely that will happen, a massive snowstorm in Denver, which held up many flights, has left thousands stranded. Airport officials are planning to open two of six runways.

NFL
Perhaps the most intriguing weekend match-up is Cincinnati at Denver. Both clubs are 8-6 and with Denver and the New York Jets also at 8-6, but on the outside looking in. Another intriguing match-up is Tennessee at Buffalo. With Vince Young, simply put, winning and the Bills streaking, only one of these two 7-7 teams will remain alive in the AFC playoff hunt. ... the New York Giants need to win against New Orleans, as does Pittsburgh versus Baltimore and Jacksonville at New England for their playoff aspirations to remain intact.

NCAA
No. 3 Ohio State visits No. 4 Florida in one of the best regular season games this year. C Greg Oden blends perfectly into this lineup, as Ohio State's backcourt carries the load. SG Daequan Cook scores and rebounds at an impressive clip (16.1 and 6.0) and PG Mike Conley Jr. always passes to the open man (6.5 APG). When G Jamar Butler comes off the bench, OSU doesn't miss a beat. Unfortunately for Florida, the team's best player, C Al Horford is out with a sprained ankle.

While it seems certain Ohio State wins the game, the reason to watch this game is last year's best player, Joakim Noah, matching up against instant sensation Oden. Horford's absence surprisingly adds appeal to this game.

FANTASY NBA: Scouring the Box Scores

The best way to keep up with the free agency market in your league is to scan box scores as often as you can. With Allen Iverson being traded from Philadelphia to Denver as well as rotation issues on the rosters of inactive trade teams, there are some things to sort out. And when there are things to sort out in terms of who gets minutes, there are opportunities to find value before anyone else.

Beginning with the 76ers, the biggest winners appear to be Andre Iguodala and Willie Green. Both are taking far more shots now that Iverson's 20-plus attempts per night have gone west. Iguodala is not available in your league, but Green might be. His field goal shooting has been far from stellar, but if you can absorb that, you'll get a nice boost in his scoring, rebounding and assist numbers.

In Boston, guard Tony Allen continues to put up big numbers in Wally Szczerbiak's absence. He went for 17 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocks against the Warriors last night and has now scored in double figures in four straight games. Teammate Al Jefferson has played big and grabbed at least 10 rebounds in six straight games. If either is available on your waiver wire, go get them now.

Charlie Villanueva is working his way back from an elbow injury and scored an efficient 16 points on 5-of-8 field goals, 2-of-2 3-pointers and 4-of-4 free throws. He recently missed a game against Minnesota with shoulder tendonitis, so monitor his healthy closely before making any roster moves involving him. When he's 100%, he's got the game of a Top 50 fantasy player.

My guy, Memphis PF Alexander Johnson, scored nine points in just 13 minutes, but the problem was, he also picked up six fouls. Portland's Travis Outlaw continued a nice scoring streak, but more importantly, he continued a very nice shot blocking streak. Outlaw blocked four shots against the Rockets last night, giving him 14 over the last six games (2.3/game).

Shaun Livingston is officially a fantasy stud, no matter whether Sam Cassell is playing or not. He is playing big minutes and putting up progressively bigger numbers. His value is going to snowball, so if you have any thoughts of picking him up or trading for him, my suggestion would be to do it ASAP. Same goes for Toronto PF Andrea Bargnani, who is scoring in different ways, blocking shots and putting up better rebounding numbers.

SPORTS: Pittsburgh Penguins Doomed;Tony Romo, Michelle Wie and Steve Nash Aren't

NHL - Penguins Plight... Leads to Flight?
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board unanimously awarded Pittsburgh's lone slot machine gambling license to a group that promised to build a casino, rather than the Penguins ownership group. This group, led by Mario Lemieux, promised to build a new $290 million arena if it won the license. Now, it appears increasingly likely the Penguins will move, rather than continue to play at the 45-year-old Mellon Arena.

NFL - Romo Rules Roost, Bangs Celebrity
San Diego will send nine players to the Pro Bowl, Chicago seven. Despite both teams individual dominance, the biggest selection was Dallas QB Tony Romo--the first Cowboy QB to be selected since Troy Aikman in 1996. With rumors of involvement with Jessica Simpson false, Romo admitted he is dating former American Idol hotty Carrie Underwood.
Talk about a huge year for Romo.

LPGA - Wie Brings Winless Streak to Stanford
Michelle Wie announced she will continue her education at Stanford University, following in her family footsteps. Her grandfather, aunt and uncle attended Stanford. She is leaning towards majoring in business, economics or marketing. Considering she made almost $20 million last year in golf and endorsement related endeavors, I'd recommend finance. The smart business move would be to wait for college, as she lost her amateur status.

NBA - Nash (& Co.) Dominates Despite Pre-Season Haircut
Phoenix won their 15th straight game Tuesday, a franchise record. "What does it really mean?" Two-time league MVP Steve Nash asked. "Not Much, but I think it's fun and I think it's an accomplishment, nonetheless. We should probably be proud of ourselves. But at the same time, we realize it doesn't mean a whole heck of a lot, either." Nash is among the great team leaders in professional sports, which shows in comments like this.

NBA: Nuggets and 76ers Both Do Well in Iverson Trade

By Dustin Hockensmith

The Philadelphia 76ers have shipped disgruntled star Allen Iverson to the Denver Nuggets for Andre Miller, Joe Smith and two first round draft picks in 2007, NBA sources told the Associated Press. The Nuggets have quickly filled the scoring void left by leading scorer Carmelo Anthony's right fist, and the Sixers have gotten far closer to fair value than anyone expected. All in all, not a bad deal for either team.

Denver's situation obviously gets more interesting as Anthony and J.R. Smith return from 15 and 6 game suspensions, but that might be an easier problem to solve than people think. Everyone criticizes Iverson on the style of basketball he plays, but when has anyone made a serious request for him to change? Make him a point guard in George Karl's high tempo offense, and he can still handle the ball and create havoc on the fastbreak.

The 76ers have a chance to drastically overhaul their franchise in a relatively short amount of time. Any pick in the top five of next year's draft is going to land a virtually guaranteed impact player. Then, you add quality college players (preferably winners) with Denver's two picks and you've got a pretty fresh start. That's not even mentioning a proven distributor in Miller and the expiring contract of Smith.

Given the two organization's circumstances, I'd call Philly the winner if I had to pick one. Fewer things need to happen for them to achieve their main goal: redefine their franchise. Denver's clear goal is to win a championship, preferably this season, and the coexistence of Iverson and Anthony in that cause is far from a sure thing.

NBA: Philadelphia Fleecing

By Steve Cernak

Admittedly, I am completely biased with regards to Allen Iverson. The man is an absolute basketball stud and a first ballot Hall Of Famer. Without even knowing what Denver gave up, I'd say the Nuggets won the trade. But how well did Philly do in the deal?

If reports are true, the 76ers received PG Andre Miller, PF Joe Smith, two 2007 first round draft picks and possibly some low salary players. That deal that sounds pretty good at the surface and a deal the team can sell their fans.

Well let me tell you something, this deal stinks for Philly.

Miller, the 2002 assist leader, is a great pass-first point and Smith is, well, okay--but they're essentially expiring contracts (Smith expires after this season, Miller after next). The picks are a nice commodity to have in what's being billed as the deepest draft in years.

Seems great, but like I said--it stinks.

Chris Webber is still on the hook for the 2007-08 season at a whopping $22.3 million. The cap fluctuates each year, but is approximately $45-50 million. In short, the Sixers will be approximately $5 million over the cap next season.

AI's contract runs until the 2008-09 season , so the Sixers essentially traded for cap space not this season, not next season, but the season after. The two draft picks are nice, but one is Denver's, who will start AI, JR Smith, Carmelo Anthony, Eduardo Najera and Marcus Camby for the majority of the season.

The other pick? Well, that originally belonged to Dallas (traded to Golden State in the Erick Dampier trade, then traded to Denver in the Najera trade).

Philadelphia traded away an all-time great and a ticket-selling-machine for two draft picks that will be close to early second rounders and cap space in 2008-09.

My apologies to Philadelphia sports fans not only getting little in return, but for losing one of the greatest players of all-time.

FANTASY NBA: A Surprise Contributor in Memphis

By Dustin Hockensmith

There seems to be a piece of the pie for everyone on the Memphis Grizzlies roster, even since the team's star, Pau Gasol, has returned to the lineup. Chucky Atkins, Hakim Warrick, Dahntay Jones, Mike Miller and Rudy Gay are all getting chances to put up numbers, and a new face has emerged in forward Alexander Johnson. Some good points and rebounds numbers from Johnson have been nice for fantasy teams, but his ability to blend and contribute in different ways should encourage consistent real life playing time.

The return of Gasol has actually helped Johnson's value. With the wiry Gasol inside, head coach Mike Fratello has elected to go with more width at the power forward. Johnson has replaced one of his chief competitors for playing time, Hakim Warrick, in the starting lineup, which is a great sign. Lawrence Roberts and Jake Tsakalidis represent the Grizzlies' only other real size, and neither complement Gasol as well as Johnson.

Whether he continues to start should not matter, Johnson should log steady minutes as long he keeps hustling and making plays. A second round pick in this past year's draft, Johnson has averaged 10.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.3 blocks in his last four games. He has shown the ability to shoot a high percentage from the field (59 pct.) and from the free throw line (72 pct., decent for a big man), so he might be worth a fantasy manager's while.

Have some optimism with Johnson; take him on if you can spare a roster spot. There might be a small window to get production out of him, but he has earned some time on the floor in the next few games with good play. Play him until he stops getting the minutes and hope for that to never happen.

SPORTS: Isiah Thomas Has Gotta Go

NBA
Monday is usually reserved for the weekend sports recap, but the Madison Square Garden Brawl between the Knicks and Nuggets is the only topic I can think about at the moment.

Isiah Thomas has been on my **** list for years, following one horrible basketball decision with another. This weekend, he took his ineptitude to the next level. Chris Sheridan reported Saturday that Thomas warned Carmelo Anthony not to play in the paint at the end of the game, and video evidence backed up Sheridan's story.

At first, this loyal Knicks fan blamed JR Smith for starting the fight after he tried to tackle Nate Robinson. (Mardy Collins delivered a hard foul, it happens.) But after listening to the post game interview and reading about Isiah's warnings, it became clear that Thomas started this whole scenario. The fans were getting ready to rain the Garden with boos for yet another blow out loss at home, so why not take the focus away from Isiah's horrible team?

Everyone gets on Carmelo Anthony for his part--the most vicious part--in the brawl. I don't see it that way. I likely would have popped a gasket if the other team's coach warned me not to be in the paint, where Collins hard foul initiated a brawl.

Wouldn't you stick up for your teammate? So, sure, Melo sucker punched and ran, but I'm sure he saw Collins' foul as the same thing.

So I apologize for the quick sports rundown, but all I can think about is how much damage Isiah Thomas has dealt my favorite team since 2003. I can't even say the end is near either, as the worst owner in all of professional sports, James Dolan, gave Isiah the rest of the season to turn things around. Ugh.

NFL
Terrell Owens was, well, himself.
The Giants are done and Tom Coughlin lambasted Eli Manning.
The Bears clinched home field advantage.
The Chargers won despite getting nothing from Philip Rivers.
The Jets and Bills both stayed alive.

NCAA Basketball
No. 7 Wisconsin's Alando Tucker buried Aaron Gray and No. 2 Pittsburgh. (I watched this game and Wisconsin looked to be a vastly superior team).
Greg Oden (the player the Knicks should be drafting but won't because of friggin Isiah Thomas) is the most efficient college basketball player I have ever seen.

MLB
The Red Sox are having second thoughts about JD Drew.
The Yankees, Braves and Pirates discussed a three way trade.

NHL
The Atlantic Division-leading Rangers were blown out on back-to-back nights, at a combined 15-3.

SPORTS: Weekend Preview

NCAA Basketball
Friday is a light day, and so is Saturday, despite a huge schedule of games. A couple of games peak my interest, but there aren't many nail biters to watch. All eyes should be on Madison where No. 11 Wisconsin WILL beat No. 2 Pittsburgh, whether the Panthers are with or without center Aaron Gray's services. Kentucky-Louisville matchups always have a ton of meaning in their home state, but at this stage of the season it's not vital to watch. These teams both could make noise later in the year, though, and UK forward/center Randolph Morris and Louisville forward Juan Palacios are names you should know. Southern Miss enters Saturday's meeting with No. 4 Alabama a perfect 7-0, but the Crimson Tide should cruise at home.

NBA
The Allen Iverson sweepstakes will be the biggest news of the weekend with mediocre matchups throughout. The Suns play both the Warriors (Friday) and Kings (Saturday), so we could see a preposterous amount of points scored in either or both of those games. On Saturday, the Cavaliers travel to Orlando for a potential Eastern Conference Finals preview, and Sunday's Rockets-Clippers game is intriguing, especially if the Clips would swing a deal for Iverson beforehand. A Lakers-Wizards game later in the night will complete a Staples Center doubleheader and feature two of the league's most gifted scorers – Gilbert Arenas and Kobe Bryant.

NFL
The NFC East will again be in the spotlight as the Eagles and Giants play at The Meadowlands play on Sunday with the knowledge of a Cowboys win or loss against the walking wounded Falcons (Saturday, 8 p.m.). With the potential for four 8-6 teams, things could get messy in the NFC with a Dallas loss. The Vince Young watch continues in Nashville against the Jaguars, where the rookie's only setback came to the 10-3 Ravens by a 27-26 score. The bigger question in San Diego isn't if the Chargers beat the Chiefs, but how far LaDainian Tomlinson raises the bar on his new single-season touchdowns record. Indianapolis attempts to overcome the same "undefeated hangover" it had last season, but probably fails against the peaking Bengals.

This Could Be the Start of Something

NBA: AI to Minnesota?

On the Milwaukee Bucks broadcast versus the Nets, several viewers reported hearing:

John, John, Iverson was traded to Minnesota for...

(John refers to Bucks color commentator John McGlocklin.)

Take this for what it's worth and by no means does this confirm an Allen Iverson to the Wolves trade.

SPORTS: Midweek Roundup

NCAA Basketball
Nevada senior Nick Fazekas became the first player in school history to top the 2,000 point mark as the No. 20 Wolfpack won handily, 76-58, over St. Mary's on Tuesday … No. 18 Texas A&M thumped Fordham, 84-61, in Tuesday's only other Top 25 action.

NCAA Football
Troy Smith made the trip from New York to Columbus without the Heisman Trophy he won on Saturday, electing to ship the trophy home and fly solo. When Ohio State's Eddie George won the award in 1995, a finger was bent on the Heisman as it passed through airport security. "Eddie's finger got bent," Smith said. "I don't want that to happen to mine." … to the surprise of no one, Smith was also an AP All-American … he was joined by two teammates and other Big Ten players on the first team.

NBA
The 76ers still have not found a home for disgruntled star Allen Iverson and continue to lose leverage in a potential deal. It was rumored that Iverson shot down a potential deal that would send him to Charlotte, but both sides were quick to deny the rumor … Matt Barnes had 32 points and 11 rebounds to help lead the Warriors to a 126-113 home win over Sacramento, but it doesn't get much better than Andris Biedrins' fantasy line: 7-of-7 field goals, 6-of-6 free throws, 20 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and three blocks … Luther Head, starting in place of the injured Tracy McGrady, scored 21 points and nearly led a fourth quarter comeback for Houston against the Lakers, but the Rockets fell at home, 102-94 … the Lakers lost forward Lamar Odom early in the contest when he sprained his right knee.

This Will Never Get Old


NFL
Minnesota Vikings defensive backs coach Joe Woods was charged with two counts of drunk driving on Tuesday. It was reported that Woods was driving his Yacht style party boat at reckless speeds. The prostitutes on board could not be reached for comment … Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper was placed on the IR on Tuesday, effectively ending his first season in Miami … the NFL Network will be available to fans with Cablevision and TimeWarner Cable providers for free from Dec. 24-30, with the hope of landing more subscribers. The funny thing is, no NFL games will be seen over that stretch, only the Texas Bowl and Insight Bowl games.

MLB
The Astros and Rockies completed a five-player deal on Tuesday, with Colorado sending RHPs Jason Jennings and Miguel Asencio to Houston for RHPs Taylor Buchholz and Jason Hirsh and OF Wily Taveras. This doesn't strike me as a lopsided deal for either side, but if Houston fails to resign Jennings and Hirsh realizes his upside in Colorado, it has the potential to be … the Texas Rangers signed RHP Eric Gagne to a one-year deal worth $6 million, which is a very worthwhile risk to take in this market. If Gagne can return to health, Texas can really shorten games with the combination of Akinori Otsuka and Gagne in the bullpen … in more Rangers news, Texas continues its pursuit of LHP Barry Zito and, along with the Mets, is a favorite to sign the former Cy Young winner … Texas also signed RHP Paul Byrd and OF Kenny Lofton and scheduled a visit by Zito's former teammate LHP Mark Mulder.

NBA: Stern's Relenting Autonomy

by Steve Cernak

NBA Commissioner David Stern announced Monday the league will revert to the old leather basketball January, the first time in pro sports a mid season equipment change occurred.

"Our players' response to this particular composite ball has been consistently negative and we are acting accordingly," Stern issued in a statement. "Although testing performed by Spalding and the NBA demonstrated that the new composite basketball was more consistent than leather, and statistically there has been an improvement in shooting, scoring, and ball-related turnovers, the most important statistic is the view of our players.”

The commissioner acknowledged a mistake and acted accordingly. When Steve Nash, Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd—three of the league’s most marketable players—sustained cuts from the league ball, most players hoped the ball would change in the off-season.

Yes, Stern committed an egregious error by not seeking player input prior to the ball swap, but he should be applauded for protecting the integrity of the game sooner rather than later.

Contrast Stern's proactivity with the other commissioners reactivity. MLB Commissioner Bud Selig issued an in-season steroids policy only when prompted by Congress. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has yet to even comment on this year’s ridiculous rules interpretation of roughing the passer, perpetuating preposterous penalties and defensive tepidity. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman required league failure before addressing two-line passes, goalie equipment size, adding a shootout and what drove the league from network television: the trap.

Here’s to the typically autonomous David Stern bringing in 2007 by admitting and undoing his error, rather than inviting a season defining controversy by maintaining status quo until the off season.

SPORTS: Recapping the Weekend

NCAA Football
Troy Smith did not win the Maxwell Award as college football's Player of the Year, but he did win the Heisman Trophy in a landslide. Maxwell winner Brady Quinn finished third behind Arkansas running back Darren McFadden, which makes his winning the award on Friday an even bigger surprise … the coaching carousel also took a bizarre turn when West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez stayed in Morgantown to the surprise and disgust of Alabama administration … Tom O'Brien left Boston College for North Carolina State, and Dennis Erickson left Oregon State for Arizona State.

NCAA Basketball
The youthful Texas Longhorns beat No. 9 LSU in overtime on Sunday, getting 25 points from stud freshman point guard D.J. Augustin and 10 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks from Kevin Durant in the surprising win. "We made some good things happen tonight," head coach Rick Barnes said … No. 23 Maryland fell to Boston College, 73-62 on the road, and No. 1 UCLA took down No. 6 Texas A&M in a Top 10 clash on Saturday … many assumed Ohio State's super freshman Greg Oden would be more of a defensive factor early in his college career, but with an 8-of-8 performance from the field in his first start, many could be wrong. (Weekend scores)

NBA
It has become known that Allen Iverson WILL be traded, but the picture on WHERE he goes or HOW a deal gets done has not gotten any clearer … the Suns moved their win streak to 10 games and had six players score in double figures against Charlotte in doing so … with 4.5 games separating the No. 1 Lakers from the No. 5 Kings in the Pacific Division, the race for the division crown should be interesting all season … Memphis PF Pau Gasol has been cleared for full contact practices, but there is no definite timetable for his return to the lineup. (Weekend scores)

NFL
Is there any doubt that the Chargers are going to the Super Bowl? LaDainian Tomlinson is the ultimate offensive weapon, Phillip Rivers is finding Antonio Gates more frequently and Shawne Merriman has an even bigger chip on his shoulder … LT scored three touchdowns (again) on Sunday to break Shaun Alexander's single-season TD record of 28 ... the Saints went to Dallas on Sunday night and steamrolled the Cowboys behind five touchdown passes from Drew Brees … no opposing quarterback had ever thrown for five TD's in Dallas … with a 39-yard touchdown run in overtime, Vince Young again led the Tennessee Titans to a victory – their fourth straight … at 6-7, could we possibly consider the Titans in the playoff race? Stranger things have happened … the Jaguars ran for the second-most yards in NFL history (375) and dominated the Colts, 44-17, in Jacksonville … Peyton Manning didn't have a great day, but that Indy defense is way beyond repair. (Sunday scores)

LT's Record 29th Touchdown


MLB
The Yankees and LHP Andy Pettitte agreed on a two-year deal (player option for 2008) that brings the left-hander back to the Bronx … in the same time frame that Vicente Padilla got $33.75 million over three years, a veteran left-hander who can pitch in New York (and in the postseason) looks like a real bargain … Barry Bonds agreed to terms with the Giants on a one-year, $16 million deal … did we actually think Bonds would sign somewhere else? … the Cubs are close to finalizing a deal with RHP Jason Marquis and filling out the back end of their rotation … this should be a solid sign for the Cubs, who have been by far the most active club in the offseason.

SPORTS: Great Weekend Ahead... NOT!

NFL
Eli Manning will derail New York's season versus Carolina, while his brother Peyton Manning will beat Jacksonville setting up spectacular playoff failure (again).

Houston's DE Mario Williams will have a monster game and silences his critics who said RB Reggie Bush should have been drafted #1 overall, especially off his 4 TD performance. QB Vince Young will break his arm, his shoulder tears completely off his body and his spleen spontaneously combusts... obvious punishment from Shiva the Destroyer for Dustin's article.

Denver QB Jay Cutler will play like a rookie against Philip Rivers and San Diego, forcing Denver's running game to step up. I don't care how they're statistically ranked, that rushing offense is what the Spanish call el horrible.

NBA
Allen Iverson reportedly asked to be traded. Might not happen this weekend or ever, but keep an eye out. This article came from Peter Vecsey, who made a career of pulling things from his butt.

My preseason pick to be Eastern Conference Champions will be labeled "surprise of the season" by the morons running ESPN after Orlando's Dwight Howard punishes Detroit down low. How's Darko Milicic (and Carlos Arroyo) looking now?

MLB
Kansas City team officials will announce they're sorry for not holding onto Carlos Beltran, Johnny Damon or Jermaine Dye in years past, but more than made up for it by signing Gil Meche to a five year $55 million contract.

NASCAR
I don't even have a joke. Well, not one that's better than the Meche joke.

WHAT I'LL BE WATCHING THIS WEEKEND
NCAA Men's Hoops:
No. 1 UCLA vs. No. 6. Texas A&M, 2:30 EST Saturday on CBS.

FANTASY NBA: Striking Before the Iron Gets Hot

In a competitive Fantasy NBA world, the free agency market can be cruel to slow-to-react shoppers. Recognizing who CAN be good before he actually starts producing is incredibly important, and it's an art of judgment and timing that helps you sift through all the unpredictability. The market is on the verge of getting hot, so it is now time to really do your homework; the breakdown below should help you get started.

Recommendations by Position:

Point Guards
Shaun Livingston, PG LA Clippers: If Livingston's on my team, he never makes it to the waiver wire in the first place. If he's there in your league, pick him up immediately. Sam Cassell is going to fade down the stretch, and Livingston is already putting up solid numbers (7.6 pts, 4.5 assists, 0.9 blocks) in spite of the 14-year veteran. What puts him to the top of the point guard free agent list is his length and ability to block shots; that will keep his value high until the triple-doubles start coming. Pick-up Potential: Daniel Gibson, Cleveland (consistent playing time, consistent production are keys); Sebastian Telfair, Boston (needs to shoot the ball better, more consistently); Chucky Atkins, Memphis (needs to keep up this pace, not die of old age).

Shooting Guards
Luther Head, PG/SG Houston Rockets: Head is shooting the lights out from 3-point range, and he won't be stopping anytime soon. He has a big man in the post in Yao Ming and a star in Tracy McGrady that can penetrate and kick and keep giving him open looks. Sure, his numbers across the board are a little weak, but there are only eight other players in fantasy basketball that average more 3's per game, and none of them are on your waiver wire. Pick-up Potential: Martell Webster, Portland (has upside, exceptional length and freedom to fire away from downtown); Hedo Turkoglu, Orlando (percentages, scoring are down, turnovers are up so far).

Small Forwards
Andrea Bargnani, SF/PF Toronto Raptors: Combines the field goal percentage and blocks of a power forward with the scoring and 3-point shooting of a small forward. Neither numbers by themselves are particularly impressive, but he's averaging 13 points, 1.0 block and 1.3 three-pointers a night in his last six games. To put thsoe numbers into perspective, there are four players in all of basketball that are averaging at least one block and one 3 per game for the year. Pick-up Potential: Chuck Hayes, Houston (not much scoring, but he's hitting the glass HARD); Martell Webster (see above).

Power Forwards
Craig Smith, SF/PF Minnesota: Smith's got to show better rebounding potential to warrant a pick-up, but if Kevin Garnett gets dealt, there are 12 more potential rebounds to go around. He is scoring points in limited minutes, but is very inconsistent in the rebounding and hustle categories. His value is directly tied into his potential on the boards though, so look for consistent 5+ rebound games and strike before anyone else does. Pick-up Potential: Al Jefferson, Boston (a better immediate pick than Smith); Travis Outlaw, Portland (just when he was getting better, he picked up five fouls and scored zero points in 10 minutes Wednesday).

Centers
LaMarcus Aldridge, SF/PF/C Portland: Multi-position eligibility is a nice bonus for a nice fantasy player. His rhythm was disrupted when he took an elbow to the mouth on Nov. 28, but he's averaged 9.3 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in the four games since. His season percentages aren't bad, either - 53.9% from the floor, 80.8% from the line. Pick-up Potential: Alonzo Mourning, Miami (2.6 blocks per night is a big number); Mark Blount, Minnesota (it's likely no other free agent big man has better scoring prowess).

SPORTS: BoSox Signings and Other News Recapped

MLB
The Red Sox agreed to terms with OF J.D. Drew (five years, $70 million) and SS Julio Lugo (four years, $36 million). Rumor had it these signings were to replace Manny Ramirez, which looks less likely now.

Manny has a few screws loose but let’s not forget he’s been the best overall hitter in the game for the past decade. He hits for average and power and uses the combination to drive in many runs. You don’t think David Ortiz sees more fastballs with runners on first and second with Manny protecting him?

If Lugo leadoffs (effectively replacing Johnny Damon a year late) and Drew protects Manny, Beantown’s lineup just got nastier.

Elsewhere, the Padres signed Greg Maddux to a one year contract (with a player option for 2008), reportedly worth $10 million. … The Mets dealt SP Brian Bannister for the Royal's RP Ambiorix Burgos. … The Indians signed RP Joe Borowski, likely to close in 2007.

NBA
NBA Commissioner David Stern admitted a mistake by not consulting with players before implementing a new basketball.

Really? Synthetic material is less desirable than leather? Steve Nash sustaining cuts on his fingers from dribbling the basketball qualifies as a mistake?

I'd say that "mistake" constitutes aggravated assault.

My only explanation is Spalding talked Stern into this so the company could charge as much for an “Official NBA Basketball” as it does for the old leather balls.

NCAA BASKETBALL
No. 24 Oklahoma State held off No. 21 Syracuse, in one of the best games I’ve seen all year, 72-68.

Two impressive aspects of the game:

(1) Oklahoma’s scoring tandem of Mario Boggans and JamesOn Curry is awesome. Watch this team climb the rankings because these two are that good together. I hopes the team doesn’t improve in ranking so I look like a genius in my bracket.

(2) The heavily recruited Paul Harris nearly burst onto the college basketball scene in a big way. He scored nine of his 11 points during Syracuse’s furious fourth quarter rally at the Jimmy V Classic. Down by 13, Harris led the charge. He performed in the clutch at Madison Square Garden, something stars do. Keep your eye on him; maybe his star will burn bright. It would help if he built his technical skill-set though.

Others Jimmy V Classic upsets: Washington State beat No. 18 Gonzaga 67 -77. No. 11 LSU beat No. 6 Texas A&M 52-64.

SPORTS: Weekend Recap, Michigan Robbed

NCAA Football
The BCS selection of Ohio State vs. Florida defined the weekend’s sports landscape. The wrong one-loss team was selected. Both Florida are Michigan great teams, but everyone I know wanted to see Michigan avenge their 42-39 loss to Ohio State.

The shame in this situation is everyone—AGAIN—is talking about a broken system rather than (1) USC blowing its BCS hopes vs. UCLA (complete with free furniture), (2) Arkansas hanging tough against Florida or (3) Rutgers losing out on the Big East title--and the Orange bowl--by losing in 3OT to West Virginia.

When the championship game is set right, the outcome is last year’s Texas vs. USC game, which was an all-time great game.

NFL
Rex Grossman killed my fantasy match up against Kenny Bloggins and seems destined to do the same to the Bears in the playoffs. Assuming the Bears win after their first-round bye, I’m predicting Grossman tosses three interceptions in the NFC Championship game.

More novice QB eras were unfolding this weekend too. Vince Young looks like a winner, despite what ESPN analysts said. Jay Cutler debuted Sunday night, while Mike Shannahan waited for the toughest possible game to introduce his young QB to the league. I like David Garrard and Jack Del Rio made the right albeit difficult decision by benching their “franchise player” Byron Leftwich (if he avoided taking monster hits, he’s a franchise player. Unfortunately, that won’t happen). Jason Campbell threw interceptions and his footwork is poor, but he has a strong arm.

Tony Romo started this novice QB trend, and had an effective game against the diminutive Giants. There’s a reason Romo went undrafted; he’s, at best, average in the pocket. Having said that, there’s a reason Bill Parcells is a genius; I’ve never seen a more accurate passer on the run than Romo, a rare talent indeed. He did this all day against the Giants, and Romo knocked the Giants down from Super Bowl contender to playoff pretender.

NCAA Basketball

FSU’s AL Thornton continues to be a stud against college basketball’s elite. His 28 points and 9 rebounds led the Seminoles to a stunning upset over the fourth ranked Florida Gators.

NHL
Viktor Kozlov’s four goal outburst put the Islanders atop the Atlantic Division after beating the Rangers 7-4.

NBA
Kevin Garnett said he’s angered by the trade rumors and he’s happy in Minnesota. Well, Kevin, I’m calling your bluff you liar.

The storyline for this NBA season is: if KG or Allen Iverson get traded, which uniforms will they don?

SPORTS: A Glimpse at This Weekend's Action

As many baseball enthusiasts are well aware, some of the most exciting action in the next week will not be taking place on dirt, grass, ice or the hardwood. Depending on the outcome of upcoming free agent signings and next week's winter meetings (Dec. 4-7), what happens this weekend could go largely unnoticed by a nice chunk of the sports viewing population. Don't get caught out of the loop, take a look at the daily breakdown below. Times listed are in Eastern Standard Time.

Friday
NCAA Basketball - A slow night, but watch No. 9 Marquette and Tennessee win big and a decent matchup between Vermont and Towson ... NCAA Football - Southern Miss and Houston play for the Conference USA title (8 p.m., ESPN2) ... NBA - Chicago takes its recent signs of life into Oklahoma City for an 8 p.m. meeting with the Hornets, and the Kings take a run at the Mavericks' 11-game winning streak ... in an upset alert game, look for Atlanta to challenge Cleveland (2-4 on the road) at home.

Saturday
NCAA Basketball - Lots of intriguing matchups and a few trap games ... Kentucky at No. 6 North Carolina (Noon, CBS), No. 23 Georgetown at No. 10 Duke (7 p.m., ESPN2), No. 22 Wichita State at No. 14 Syracuse, Illinois at No. 16 Arizona (5:15 p.m. EST, ESPN) and No. 21 Gonzaga at No. 25 Texas (3 p.m., ESPN) highlight the schedule ... NCAA Football - No. 2 USC at UCLA (4:30 p.m., ABC) is the only game with national championship implications, but check out the various conference championship games, including No. 8 Arkansas at No. 4 Florida (6 p.m., CBS) in the SEC ... NBA - Seattle at Utah -- how do the Jazz respond after being blown out by the Lakers? ... Cleveland (at Houston) and Indiana (at Denver) both attempt to un-skew the Eastern vs. Western Conference results, but have to win on the road to do it.

Wichita State upsets Tennessee in the 2006 NCAA Tournament


Sunday
NCAA Basketball - No. 3 Pittsburgh continues its walk on the tight rope at Auburn, and No. 20 Nevada (at Cal) and No. 24 Georgia Tech (at Miami) get put to the test on the road ... NCAA Football - With 51 touchdowns, Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan stands just three shy of David Klingler's NCAA record of 54 and should set a new record against Oregon State (TBA, ESPN) ... NFL - Shawne Merriman returns to the Chargers lineup against the resurgent Bills, and the JP Losman Injury Alert goes from Yellow to Orange ... Titans QB Vince Young's progression continues against the 10-1 Colts (1 p.m.), and Dallas vs. New York (4:15 p.m.), Jacksonville at Miami (4:05 p.m.) and Seattle at Denver (8:15 p.m.) all have playoff implications ... Rookie QB Jay Cutler makes his Broncos debut in primetime against the Seahawks.

FANTASY: Blue Chips vs. Day Trades

Potential Fantasy NBA Blue Chips

While SF/PF Andrea Bargnani, SF/PF/C LaMarcus Aldridge and SF/PF Shelden Williams have yet to justify their NBA draft selections, all three appear poised to do so. As is the case with all rookies, you need to exercise a little patience, both from a consistency and playing time perspective, but these are all guys who can help you in the short to medium term.

Bargnani is scoring points (averaging 12.3 ppg in his last six) and showing some nice potential in the hustle categories, but is rebounding like his effeminate first name suggests he would. Aldridge was just starting to play a more prominent role in Portland, but took an elbow to the chops on November 26 and has played just 12 minutes in the last two games. Williams is beginning to put it together, but remains a little weak in the points and rebounds departments.


Historically Awesome Fantasy NHL Blue Chips

After the NHL lockout, many young stars emerged. The trend in fantasy hockey is to take youth, which means there is tremendous veteran value on the waiver wire.

Pittsburgh's LW Evgeni Malkin and C Sidney Crosby have been the talk of the hockey world, but why not pick up RW Mark Recchi? With 490 career goals, he's the perfect veteran to play on their line. ... C Brad Richards and LW Gary Roberts similarly had great months and may be worth a look.


Day Trading to Fantasy NFL Glory

In my fantasy football league, there is literally nothing available on the waiver wire. You're likely screwed if you need waiver help now. But everyone thinks they can strike it rich in a week. A good place to look for quality depth this point in the season is WR.

Marty Booker was once was nasty and since Joey Harrington took over, Booker is 17 yards behind Wes Welker for the team lead in receiving yards. ... In my league, Kenny Bloggins just picked up Santonio Holmes, a strong short-term buy. Hines Ward could miss two weeks and Holmes is a pedigree wide out with a bright future, one Kenny hopes begins Sunday. ... Tom Brady consistently spread the ball this season. Maybe, just maybe, Reche Caldwell will replicate his 9 reception, 90 yards and 1 TD Week 10 performance? Against a soft Detroit defense this week, I'd say the chances are better than average.

SPORTS: This Week's News and Happenings

MLB
The Yankees had an answer to Boston's $51 million bid for Daisuke Matsuzaka, offering a reported $25 million for the rights to negotiate with LHP Kei Igawa. This was one of many Hot Stove happenings in the past 48 hours. MLB Trade Rumors nicely recaps all of the signings and rumors, including the Cubs 3-year, $45-million offer to RHP Jason Schmidt, the Cardinals signing of 2B Adam Kennedy and more on Igawa.

Prospect Insider spoke with an American scout who saw Igawa in Japan, and the YouTube video below backs up his report. You see a decent fastball that has downward action, a quality slider that actually flattens out and gets pounded by David Wright in the video and arm action that's very condusive to a change-up.



NBA
Bobby Jackson was fined $20,000 by the league for being ejected and verbally abusing officials in a loss at Dallas on Saturday. "I think the officials have to be reprimanded just like we get reprimanded," Jackson poignantly noted. Maybe you're right, but maybe you should make your case without dropping F-bombs and making a spectacle of yourself and officials in front of 20,00 fans? ... the Clippers and Mike Dunleavy agreed on a four-year contract extension on Monday, and it came just in time for a five-game losing streak and a fall to the cellar of the Pacific Division ... Check out scores from around the league and updated standings that feature the 5-8 Celtics at the top of the Eastern Conference's Atlantic Division. Wow.

NFL
Falcons QB Michael Vick was fined $20,000 for his postgame antics after the team's 31-13 loss to New Orleans on Sunday. As head coach Jim Mora points out in this video clip from Fox Sports though, "Vick has courage and the heart of a lion." Unfortunately, he also has the middle finger of an angry and drunken Dutch prostitute and is quicker on the draw than Lightning Jack.