NBA 2015 Playoff Predictions : Round Four (NBA Finals)

 Well, we’ve finally made it. After a long, but very exciting season of basketball, only two teams are left standing, The Cleveland Cavaliers representing the Eastern Conference, and the Golden State Warriors representing the Western. Two of the leagues best teams are set to duel it out this week, in what should be the beginning of a great series. In one corner you have the 4 time league MVP, and 2 time NBA Champion in Lebron James, hoping to capture another title, but this time for his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, something they’ve never done… like ever. In the other corner, stands Stephen Curry, a.k.a the leagues current regular season MVP, seeking his first championship, and the Warriors first championship in over 40 years. And since I’ve predicted every other round, of course I’m going to predict this one too, or at least make an attempt to …

NBA Finals : (2) Cleveland Cavaliers vs (1) Golden State Warriors 

Going into the Final round, there isn’t really that one team that has a complete edge over the other. Both teams advanced to the Finals pretty easily, winning their previous series in less than 6 games. Cleveland handled the Atlanta Hawks in four games, while Golden State took care of the Houston Rockets in five. So both teams walk into the finals getting some rest, and preparing for one lats battle. First off though, let me just say that this series should come down to six or seven games, and a couple of close games too, I might add. Because I think it will be such an amazing series, I’ve decide to pick three key things in this NBA Finals, that could possibly play a huge factor, and potentially decide this seasons NBA Champion.

3. Injuries. You really can’t predict a players injury, which sucks, because a players injury could almost decide a game, or even a series. When Kevin Love got injured in round one against the Celtics,a lot of people thought it was over for the Cavs, that the Bulls would take care of them, or eventually the Hawks, but they proved those critics wrong. Kyrie Irving’s been pretty banged up for them as well, but luckily for them, Kyrie managed to stay healthy enough for him to play the majority of their games. As injuries go for the Warriors, we’ve seen a ton of scares. Last round both Stephen Curry, and Klay Thompson had huge injury scares. Curry’s fine, but Thompson could miss a few games this series, even though head coach Steve Kerr said he “expects him to play”. However, if Thompson does manage to play, it’s likely that he won’t play up to par this series. Injuries are huge in sports, and basketball in particular. I think the loss of K-Love will come back to haunt Cleveland in the end eventually.

2. Head Coach battle. For the first time in NBA history, both Finals head coaches will be first time head coaches. Both David Blatt, and Steve Kerr coached an NBA team for their first time this season, and I think it’s safe to say it worked out pretty well for the both of them. Although almost anybody can coach Lebron James, David Blatt is no joke, and has had success coaching outside of the NBA. And lets not forget who Steve Kerr used to play basketball for. Kerr used to play for Gregg Popovich, who appears to have taught Kerr a few things. I think these two coaches could play some kind of impact during this series. A bad play call perhaps, or a foolish lineup on the court with 24 seconds remaining? Who knows?

1. Bench Production. We saw it in last years finals, when the San Antonio Spurs crushed the Miami Heat, mainly because every Heat player not named Lebron James, could score, or defend for any matter. The Spurs bench was far better than the Heats bench, and the result ended in the Spurs hoisting the trophy, while the Heat could only watch on. If the Warriors bench can do that to the Cavs this year, it’ll be a very similar scene for Lebron James. The same could be said for the Cavs though. If guards like Matthew Dellevedova, Iman Shumpart,and J.R Smith step up, the Warriors could be watching the Cavaliers celebrate. I think bench production will be a huge difference maker this series, and whatever bench does better should come out on top.

My prediction : In what should be a great series of back and fourth basketball, I have the Golden State Warriors winning in six games. And here’s why : Stephen Curry will be too much of a match for Kyrie Irving, and any other Cavs Guard. Not only will Steph play at a high level, but I think Klay Thompson will have a good series as well. And even though Lebron will be Lebron, by putting say, a Draymond Green on him, it won’t be as easy for him to score 30+ points a night, especially every night. And back to the bench production thing, I see the Warriors bench coming up big, and giving the Cavs a lot of problems this series. Curry wins Finals MVP, and his first NBA Championship in the same night.

Winner : GSW 4-2 CLE

Finals MVP : Stephen Curry 

A.B

Timmy and Manu? Gasol or Aldridge? Spurs Free Agent Preview

 With the Spurs off season starting a lot quicker than they would’ve wanted, rumors have already been floating around them, that a new big man may be in town. Trail Blazers Power Forward, LaMarcus Aldridge might have his eyes on joining the Spurs this season, after his team lost in five games to the Memphis Grizzlies in round one of the playoffs. Coincidentally, the Memphis Grizzlies lost in six games the next round to the Golden State Warriors, and now their big man, Marc Gasol might have his eye on coming to San Antonio as well. Will either one of them join the Spurs? Well it could depend on many things. 

For one, the future of Tim Duncan, and Manu Ginobili is still undecided. I’m hoping they both come back for at least one more season, but that’s just me. I think that their decisions could very much affect Gasol, or Aldridge joining the Spurs.

 Another elephant in the room, is that the Spurs still have many other free agents that I’m sure they would like to re-sign. Along with Duncan, and Ginobili, the Spurs still have eight more free agents left. Of those ten, including Duncan, and Manu, I think they could get six or seven of them to come back to the team. Below, are their ten remaining free agents, and next to them are my predictions on whether they’ll remain a Spur, or go somewhere else.

• Tim Duncan – Stay. Duncan played an amazing 2014-15 season, from beginning, to middle, to end. And there’s no way he ends his career off of a heart breaking game 7 loss against the Clippers. Duncan stays for one more year.

• Manu Ginobili – Stay. Tough one, but I think Manu will play one more year, simply because Timmy will stay for one more.

• Kawhi Leonard – Stay. There’s no way Kawhi goes somewhere else this offseason. The Spurs love Kawhi, and believe he’s their future, and it seems that Kawhi loves San Antonio, so much he already said he would like to play for them his entire career.

• Danny Green – Stay. This past week, Danny Green met with the New York Knicks organization. I don’t know why, but I do know if he leaves the Knicks for the Spurs, he’ll never win an NBA Championship again. If he’s smart, he’ll stay.

• Marco Belinelli – Stay. Marco really has improved this past season, and played a great series against the Clippers. If the Spurs know what they’re doing, they’ll get him back. 

• Cory Joseph – Leave. I like Co-Jo, but I don’t see him staying. He’s the Spurs 3rd string Point Guard, when he would be a 2nd string Point Guard almost anywhere else. Some team will get him, and give him more playing time.

• Aron Baynes – Stay. Aron Baynes has impressed me lately, and if he’s impressed me, chances are, he’s impressed the Spurs organization too. They should be able to ge him back, and for a cheap cost as well. 

• Jeff Ayres – Leave. The Spurs don’t really use him that much, so I don’t think they’ll make a large effort in trying to keep him. He’ll most likely leave. 

• Matt Bonner – Stay. Bonner wants to stay, and I think the Spurs would want him back. Another player they should get back for cheap.

• Reggie Williams – Leave. He played very few minutes for the team, and in those few minutes, he didn’t play great. I think Kyle Anderson is enough for the Spurs this year, no real need for Williams.

Ten free agents, seven will stay. So along with those seven, the Spurs also still have : Tony Parker, Patty Mills , Boris Diaw, Tiago Splitter, and Kyle Anderson. So that makes twelve. If the organization wants Aldridge, or Gasol, someone most likely, has to go. 

Another rumor I’ve heard, is that a trade involving Mills, Splitter, or Diaw would come into play This makes me upset, because I like all three, but if it takes trading Tiago Splitter, and a draft pick for a soon to be free agent like Gasol, or Aldridge, then I of course would be happy with it. I want Patty, and Boris to stay though. Nothing against Tiago, but if he left, I’d be okay with it. I just think that he hasn’t had a great season in my eyes, and if getting rid of him is what it takes to get a Gasol or Aldridge, get rid of him.

But back to any Aldridge or Gasol debate. If I could pick one of the two, I’d want Gasol. For one, LaMarcus Aldridge had thumb surgery recentley, and will need to rest for 8 weeks. That’s 8 less weeks getting ready for the Spurs. Secondly, to Me, Gasol plays a little bit better. Yes, Aldridge has better stats, but just by watching Gasol play, he’s been playing really well lately. Actually … scratch that! I want Aldridge. His game has gotten so much better. Plus, he’s one of the few bug men with a jump shot. He’s One of the leagues best big men. Actually, no, Gasol! Ugh. This is too difficult! Both guys are great players, and should only get better. If somehow, the Spurs can bring in one of them without getting rid of any key players, I’d be extremely happy.

If it was up to me, the Spurs starting lineup would look something like this : 

PG – Tony Parker

SG – Danny Green

SF – Kawhi Leonard

PF – Tim Duncan/LaMarcus Aldridge

C – Marc Gasol/ Tim Duncan

And have the back ups look something like this : 

PG – Patty Mills

SG – Marco Belinelli

SF – Manu Ginobili 

PF – Boris Diaw 

C – Tiago Splitter

And stick Aron Baynes, Kyle Anderson, and Matt Bonner in there once and a while, and there’s your future 2016 NBA Champions! I can see it now!

To sum it all up there’s still a lot unknown for the 2015-2016 San Antonio Spurs, and hopefully, they see this blog post, and take my advice! Anyways, it should be crazy, and very exciting to see what happens next for the Spurs. Thanks for the read, and keep following! 

AB

NBA 2015 Playoff Predictions : Round Three

WOW. Just wow. With the second round finally over, all I can really say is wow. After watching round one, every series but the Clippers-Spurs one seemed very boring to me, but then round two happened. Every series was exciting and featured high scoring games, ridiculous comebacks, heart wrenching buzzer beaters, and of course this “should’ve been” buzzer beater :  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JU-2zgQ7zKA

Crazy. I mean just crazy. Round two was such an amazing treat to all of us NBA fans, and if round three’s anything like round two, then we’re in for something really special. So here we go, my predictions for the third round, the Conference Finals.

Eastern Conference 

(1) Atlanta Hawks vs (2) Cleveland Cavaliers

Before the playoffs began, this was my predicted matchup for the Eastern Conference Finals. The terrific team work guided by the 2015 Coach of the year, Mike Budenholzer, facing off against the ferocious monster in Lebron James, who’s hungry to capture yet another championship, but this time with his hometown Cavaliers. I originally had Cleveland winning, and moving on to the NBA Finals, but now as I think about it more, and more, I think that the Atlanta Hawks will get the job done, and move on to the NBA Finals. The brand of basketball they play just kinda gets the job done, and with no Kevin Love for Cleveland, I think Paul Millsap, and Al Horford will play lights out, and if the bench shows up to play, the Hawks will win this series. Yes, Lebron will be Lebron, and Kyrie will Kyrie, but I just don’t think it’ll be enough. Give me the Hawks in six.  

 

Western Conference 

(1) Golden State Warriors vs (2) Houston Rockets

I don’t know why, but I’m still shocked that the Houston Rockets made it this far. Throughout the entire post season, I’ve doubted them, and kept thinking they’d lose a series to someone. Well, I’m here to say that my prediction will not change. I still don’t believe in this team, and definitely won’t start now. They are playing pretty good basketball, but pretty good isn’t good enough when you’re playing the Golden State Warriors.The Rockets can win this series, I just don’t believe they will. Overall it should be a good series, but I see the Warriors being too dominant on offense, and not too shabby on defense either. I could be wrong though, as I originally didn’t even have the Rockets making it past the first round, never mind title contenders. Give me Warriors in six.  

 
My NBA Finals (predicted) matchup :

(1) Atlanta Hawks vs (1) Golden State Warriors

Thanks for the read, and please stay tuned, as I will be giving my NBA Finals picks after this round. Also, please feel free to share the blog! Thanks again!

AB

Fantasy Football : Alex Berger Top 10 Running Backs

  

Editors Note : These rankings will change frequently, so stay tuned, as I will be updating the rankings every now and then! Latest update : May 16 

1. Jammal Charles – Kansas City Chiefs

To me, any of these guys on this list are studs. There’s really around 7-12 running backs that could be a smart first round pick, that could help you win your fantasy league this year. However, injuries emerge, and players don’t live up to their potential, so it makes that first round pick really hard, and could decide the difference between a champions season, or a bottom of the barrel, last place season. Out of all the guys though, the guy I would feel the safest with , and would trust on leading my team, would be Jammal Charles. Charles puts up consistent numbers every season, and still remains the Chiefs number one offensive weapon. Charles can take the ball and run it in for a 1 yard touchdown, or he can catch a 5 yard pass, and turn it into a 36 yard gain. That’s how good of a play maker Jammal Charles is. As long as Jammal stays healthy for most of the season, he should be a bold number one running back, and a brave number one overall pick, if you have that pick. My advice, if Jammal Charles is still available while you’re on the clock, you take him. Chances are, you won’t regret it.

2. Le’Veon Bell – Pittsburgh Steelers

About a week ago, Bell was still the number one running back for me, even with knowing that he’ll be sitting out the first three games due to a DUI, and possession of Marijauna. Bell had such a great season last year, that it would be pretty foolish of me to leave him out of my top three. If Bell was playing those first three games, there’s no doubt that he would be the number one fantasy player heading into the season. I think those three games will be a small difference maker between picking Bell and Charles, but if Bell’s available, don’t feel shy about selecting him as a first round pick. Bell had a tremendous season last year, and I expect him to do well again this season.

3. Eddie Lacy – Green Bay Packers

Ever since I saw Eddie Lacy run a ball for the Packers, I knew he’d be a great Fantasy Player. His strength gets him big muscle yards, and tons of touch downs. His playing style’s just like the style of Marshawn Lynch, the way his runs take multiple guys to bring him down. A bonus for Lacy, is that he has Aaron Rodgers as his quarterback. Thus allowing the Packers to switch up plays, which will keep Lacy fresh, keep opposing defenses guessing, and will give him better runs. To me, Lacy’s another running back you should take without hesitation.

4. Marshawn Lynch – Seattle Seahawks

Another dumb move I made last season was not drafting Marshawn Lynch. Lynch passed by a lot of rounds in my main league draft last season, and I learned the hard way that Lynch can still play at an efficient level. Lynch again racked up yard after yard, and countless touch downs. Not a lot to say about Beast mode, which fits him, because he’s not a man of words … http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-super-bowl-media-sessions/0ap3000000464167/I-m-just-here-so-I-won-t-get-fined But much respect to Marshawn Lynch, and please don’t make the mistake like I did, of passing on Lynch in your fantasy draft this season, they don’t call him Beast Mode for nothing. Seriously.

5. DeMarco Murray – Philadelphia Eagles

After the spectacular season DeMarco Murray had for the Dallas Cowboys last season, it’s no surprise that he’s in the top 5 again this season. Murray probably would’ve been higher than 5, but I think he down graded a bit by going to Philadelphia. Dallas had a great offensive line, and they’re on paper, to do it again. The Eagles O-line is okay, but again, I think Murray would’ve had more success on the Cowboys. I ultimately think Murray will have another good season under Chip Kelly, who of course, formerly coached LeSean McCoy. This season is a great test for Murray to prove himself as one of the games best runners.

6. Arian Foster – Houston Texans

With the offense of the Houston Texans still being a jumbled mess, it’s obvious who their number one offensive threat still is. Arian Foster. Since joining the Texans in 2006, Foster has developed a fantastic running game. The one major problem Foster has however, is his injury magnet. In 2013, Foster played a total of only 8 regular season games, and last season missed three games. Throughout his career, injury has always played a role for Arian Foster, and might become a factor this season too. Foster’s one of those players who could make or break you, boom or bust you kinda guy. If you draft him, and he plays well, and stays healthy for the majority of the season, then he could become a big piece in your championship puzzle. If that happens, then Kudos to you for picking him. However, if you pick him in round one, and he tears an ACL in week 2 … (knock on wood), then you’re season is more likely over before it ever really started. So Foster’s a huge risk/reward guy, which is why I have him at number six.

7. C.J Anderson – Denver Broncos

With the way Broncos running back C.J Anderson played the last couple weeks last season, he no doubt has to be one of the top running backs heading into the 2015 season. Anderson played lights out towards the end of the season for the Broncos, and as long as new head coach Gary Kubiak (who has had success with guys like Arian Foster in Houston), decides that Anderson is the guy for the job, then I would have no problem drafting Anderson anywhere from 3-10. I feel very confident in drafting C.J Anderson, and you should too.

8. Matt Forte – Chicago Bears

The offense of the Chicago Bears always gets me excited. You have Alshon Jeffery at the number one receiver for the Bears now, with Brandon Marshall now on the Jets, the new rookie receiver Kevin White should be pretty good too. John Fox seems like a good fit for this team, and they should start succeeding in no time, just by the presence, and teaching he brings to a team. But my favorite thing about them still, is running back Matt Forte. I drafted Forte last season, and even on a bad year, he still made me proud. Forte is one of the most underrated running backs in the league. He can do all the running back necessities, and along with so much more. His red-zone scoring is always impressive, along with things like his versatility, and superb pass catching. If these guys I already mentioned are gone at RB, take Forte!

9. Adrian Peterson – Minnesota Vikings

With things still foggy around Adrian Peterson, all of the fantasy world is wondering if he’ll be back to his old self in returning to the NFL. Peterson was a good running back, but two problems continue to stare at me when thinking about taking Peterson in any league.

1. Peterson still plays for the Minnesota Vikings, who aren’t really much of a threat on offense. This gives opposing defenses’ an aware clue that Peterson will be touching the ball most of the time.
2. He hasn’t played football in around a year. Seriously? You want me to take Peterson? A guy who not only plays for the Vikings, but also hasn’t played in a while? Good one.

Like a lot of other players, Peterson is high on the risk/reward list. A great running back, but a lot of flaws in him at the moment. So at the moment, it’s a huge risk in taking Peterson. But if he’s available at the number 9 pick, I’ll take him.

10. Jeremy Hill – Cincinnati Bengals

At this time last year, very few knew who Jeremy Hill was. He was the back up for Giovani Bernard, but once Hill stepped in, it was a different story. Hill had a great couple of weeks towards the end of the season, and should have a good 2015 season too. One key thing is though, the Bengals have basically already said that they’re gonna split carries with Hill and Bernard. So if you plan on taking Hill, taking Bernard as a RB2, or a Flex position player is a good idea. Both guys bring a lot to the table, but I like the look of Jeremy Hill, and he rounds out my top 10 running backs … for now.

Thanks for the read, and please share the blog! Also, stay updated, because like I said, this post will be changing a lot! The running back position gets stronger and stronger year after year, and this year it looks very strong.

AB

Fantasy Football : Alex Berger Top 10 Quarterbacks

From now until “draft season”, I’ll be giving individual position rankings, starting with the top 10 quarterbacks. Stay tuned for other positions, and please feel free to share the blog, thanks! 

Note : The list will change occasionally from now until draft time (Late Aug.), so stay tuned! Latest update : May 10

1. Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers

Following another MVP season, we have Green Bay QB, Aaron Rodgers at number one on our list. Rodgers still has the big name weapons like Jordy Nelson, and Randall Cobb, and also has a great running back in Eddie Lacy, which will give the Packers more play calling options, allowing Rodgers to get better results in his passing plays. Rodgers’ ability to get out of the pocket and create a play is still so impressive, and he can make a huge play from almost anywhere down the field. It’s no surprise that Aaron Rodgers is our #1 Quarterback heading into 2015.  

 

2. Andrew Luck – Indianapolis Colts

He’s taking the league by storm, and he’s doing it at a very young age. At 25 years old, Andrew Luck can make plays in the air, and on the run. Luck continues to make smart plays, and lead his team to many impressive victories. New weapon Andre Johnson said that Luck’s “probably the best Quarterback I’ve ever had”. It should be exciting seeing those two hook up this season.  

 

3. Peyton Manning – Denver Broncos

Following the awful loss against the Colts last post season, many thought Manning would call his career quits, but like I predicted, he’ll be playing at least one more year in Denver. Regardless of all the injuries he secretly still has, I still have faith that Manning will have a great 2015 season. His game is nowhere near to gone, and this year is another test to prove that, a test I think he’ll pass. Sure losing TE Julius Thomas might hurt him, but he’s Peyton Manning. He can throw to anyone, and instantly make them look better, he should be fine.  

 

4. Russell Wilson – Seattle Seahawks

For a while, the biggest piece to the Seahawks team that was missing was a muscled pass catcher. Well they sure fixed that problem with the addition of former New Orleans Tight End, Jimmy Graham. Graham should give Wilson a lot more passing yards, and passing Touch Downs this season, and should continue his success on the ground again. On our Top 100 Player Rankings list (https://worldofawb.wordpress.com/2015/05/09/fantasy-football-alex-berger-top-100-player-rankings/ ) we have Wilson edged with Manning. That’s how close those two are right now. If you can’t have Manning, Wilson is the next best thing.  

 

5.Tom Brady – New England Patriots

I still remember last year when I had Brady on my roster, and gave up on him after three weeks. Worst decision I’ve made throughout my Fantasy Football career so far. I learned two lessons in that : 1. Never drop a player until at least 5 weeks.  2. Never drop Tom Brady. After about four weeks of struggling, Brady and the Pats got on a groove, and eventually would win the Super Bowl, Brady’s fourth. Of course when I dropped Brady, someone else had picked him up, so that was that. I’m just lucky that move didn’t hurt me in the end. Anyways though, if Brady doesn’t get a huge suspension due to the deflate gate bologna, he’ll be anywhere from a top 6 quarterback. Plus, having Rob Gronkowski helps a lot too.  

 

6. Matt Ryan – Atlanta Falcons

After a bad 2014 season, I think the Atlanta Falcons could make a test for a post season appearance again. If offensive weapons like Julio Jones  can remain healthy, then Ryan and the Falcons can definitely succeed. Ryan helped me win my championship last season, and I would have complete faith putting him back on my team again this season! Ryan’s a great quarterback, that won’t cost you a first round pick,or even second or third really. Ryan gets the job done, and is a very prominent QB1.  

 

7. Drew Brees – New Orleans Saints

The loss of Graham should hurt Brees, but I still think he has decent weapons. Brandin Cooks should have another good season, and I think Marques Colston could as well. Although Brees throws a lot of picks, he always seems to put up a lot of passing yards, and boat loads of Touchdowns. Feel confident in taking Drew Brees.  

 

8. Ben Roethlisberger – Pittsburgh Steelers

By having the #1 Fantasy WR last season, and he’ll probably be #1 this season, in Antonio Brown, Big Ben has the potential to be a top 10 QB this season. Another weapon Ben has that I like is WR Martavius Bryant. The duo of Bryant and Brown should keep defenses busy, and should give Roethlisberger plenty of yards and Touch Downs. If you feel like I do and think Ben can play like he did last season, take him in a heart beat.  

 

9. Cam Newton – Carolina Panthers

Usually I’m not a fan of Cam when it comes to Fantasy, but I see good things for him this season, especially if his two main weapons play well again this season. If Kelvin Benjamin and Greg Olson have good years, most likely Cam will too. Cams rushing yards are what make him so valuable in Fantasy, and if he can keep that up, along with good passing numbers, he’ll have a good 2015.  

 

10. Tony Romo – Dallas Cowboys

If you need a QB in a later round that you can rely on to get the job done, Tony Romo’s your man. Romo has a good group of pass catchers, including Dez Bryant, and Jason Witten. Not only that, but Romo has been improving every year, and I think he’ll keep that trend going. I expect another good season out of Tony Romo.  

 

Thanks for the read, and stay tuned for other Fantasy Football advice! 

AB 

Fantasy Football : Alex Berger Top 100 Player Rankings

   

As much as this pains me to say, I’m just gonna go ahead, and say it. I think Eli Manning has the potential to be a top ten Fantasy QB this season. There, I said it. Even though I dislike the thought, you have to look around at his supporting cast this season. The offensive line has improved, the Giants Tight Ends will only get better, Victor Cruz is coming back from injury, the Giants signed a great running back in Shane Vereen, and of course Odell Beckham Jr will be on his side again. This week, Eli sneaks into my top 100 players, and also my top 10 QBs.  Hey, I’m just as shocked as you are! 

Note : I will be updating these rankings from every time to time, so stay tuned, and check on the rankings whenever I update them. Thanks! Latest update : May 30th 

1. Jamaal Charles – KC – RB 
2. Le’Veon Bell – PIT – RB
3. Eddie Lacy – GB – RB
4. Marshawn Lynch – SEA – RB
5. Arian Foster – HOU – RB
6. DeMarco Murray – PHI – RB
7. Adrian Peterson – MIN – RB 
8. Antonio Brown – PIT – WR 
9. C.J Anderson – DEN – RB
10. Matt Forte – CHI – RB
11. DeMaryius Thomas – DEN – WR
12. Rob Gronkowski – NE – TE
13. Odell Beckham Jr. – NYG – WR
14. Dez Bryant – DAL – WR
15. LeSean McCoy – BUF – RB
16. Calvin Johnson – DET – WR
17. Jordy Nelson – GB – WR
18. Aaron Rodgers – GB – QB
19. A.J Green – CIN – WR
20. Andrew Luck – IND – QB 
21. Julio Jones – ATL – WR
22. Jeremy Hill – CIN – RB
23. Alfred Morris – WAS – RB
24. Emmanuel Sanders – DEN – WR
25. Justin Forsett – BAL – RB
26. Alshon Jeffery – CHI – WR
27. T.Y Hilton – IND – WR
28. Mark Ingram – NO – RB
29. Randall Cobb – GB – WR
30. Peyton Manning – DEN – QB
31. Russell Wilson – SEA – QB
32. Jimmy Graham – SEA – TE
33. Mike Evans – TB – WR
34. Lamar Miller – MIA – RB
35. Melvin Gordon III – SD – RB
36. DeAndre Hopkins – HOU – WR
37. Kelvin Benjamin – CAR – WR
38. Julian Edelman – NE – WR
39. Matt Ryan – ATL – QB
40. Vincent Jackson – TB – WR
41. Latavius Murray – OAK – RB
42. Carlos Hyde – SF – RB
43. Drew Brees – NO – QB 
44. Keenan Allen – SD – WR
45. Joiuqe Bell – DET – RB 
46. Frank Gore – IND – RB
47. Jordan Matthews – PHI – WR
48. Amari Cooper – OAK – WR 
49. Todd Gurley – STL – RB
50. Andre Johnson – IND – WR
51. Giovani Bernard – CIN – RB
52. Andre Ellington – ARI – RB
53. Brandon Marshall – NYJ – WR
54. Kevin White – CHI – WR
55. Tom Brady – NE – QB
56. Jonathan Stewart – CAR – RB
57. DeSean Jackson – WAS – WR
58. Lagerrette Blount – NE – RB
59. Greg Olson – CAR – TE
60. Brandin Cooks – NO – WR
61. Cam Newton – CAR – QB
62. Darren McFadden – DAL-  RB
63. Tevin Coleman – ATL – RB
64. T.J Yeldon – JAC – RB
65. Rashad Jennings – NYG – RB
66. Sammy Watkins – BUF – WR 
67. Mike Wallace – MIN- WR
68. Golden Tate – DET – WR
69. Travis Kelce – KC – TE
70. Isaiah Crowell – CLE – RB
71. Nelson Agholor – PHI – WR
72. Martellus Bennet – CHI – TE
73. Eric Decker – NYJ – WR
74. Torrey Smith – SF – WR
75. Jeremy Maclin – KC – WR
76. Jarvis Landry – MIA – WR
77. Doug Martin – TB – RB
78. Ben Roethlisberger – PIT – QB
79. Roddy White – ATL – WR
80. Allen Robinson – JAC – WR
81. Chris Ivory – NYJ – RB
82. Antonio Gates – SD – TE
83. Ameer Abdullah – DET – RB
84. Marques Colston – NO – WR
85. Martavias Bryant – PIT – WR
86. Zach Ertz – PHI – TE
87. C.J Spiller – NO – RB
88. Joesph Randle – DAL – RB
89. Michael Floyd – ARI – WR
90. Charles Sims – TB – RB
91. Shane Vereen – NYG – RB
92. Charles Johnson -MIN – WR
93. Fred Jackson – BUF – RB
94. Delanie Walker – TEN – TE
95. Tony Romo – DAL – QB
96. Eli Manning – NYG- QB
97. Reggie Bush – SF – RB
98. DaVante Adams – GB – WR
99. Larry Fitzgerald – ARI – WR
100. Bishop Sankey – TEN – RB

Thanks for the read, and be sure to stay updated, as the next set of rankings will be released very soon! A.B 

End of a Spurs Dynasty?

  

With only a few seconds to go in game 7 of the first round of the Clippers-Spurs series, Clippers Point Guard Chris Paul took a shot that seemed to almost freeze time. The shot went up, and all that Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili have accomplished seemed like a faded memory, and a thing of long ago. Paul hit a jumper off the backboard, and left the Spurs with only a second to work with. Which of course wasn’t enough time, and the Clippers would hold on for the heart racing win, and advance to the next round, ending the Spurs season in the blink of an eye. But they may have ended something more than one season. They may’ve ended the Spurs dynasty.

Even though he plays like he’s 29 years young, Tim Duncan is now 39 years of age, and is possibly face to face with calling his career over. Duncan hasn’t put up MVP numbers, nowhere close as a matter of fact, but he has definitely played like an MVP caliber player. While players on the Spurs got injured left and right, it was Duncan who put the team on his back, and led them to another Playoff appearance, something he’s always done since being drafted by the Spurs in 1997. Duncan also reached his 15th NBA All star appearance this season. So in my eyes, there should be no reason why Duncan can’t come back for another season. He’s still playing fantastic basketball for the Spurs, and definitely doesn’t want to end his career off of a devastating loss, like the one he took against the Clippers last Saturday night. Duncan still has the heart like a lion, and the appetite of a champion. He should come back again for at least one more season.

Manu Ginobili on the other hand, still appears to be a mystery. The soon to be 38 year old Shooting Guard has thrown himself around the court so many times in his lengthy career, that I’m really surprised he hasn’t retired already. But like Duncan, he has the heart of a lion, and appetite of a champion. Ginobili averaged only 10.5 points per game this season, which happens to be his second to worst career low, only better than his rookie season of 7.6 ppg. It’s pretty clear that he’s struggling right now. Manu’s age has caught up to him at last, and could force him to call his career over. After the heartbreaking Game 7 loss, Head Coach Gregg Popovich, (who is also being questioned on his return for next season), said that he, and the Spurs core will “probably come back” next season. Which I guess is good news. Recently, Manu said that he may take up to a month to figure his future out, and his decision may reflect off of Duncan’s decision to either stay or go. And Because Tony Parker’s still on a contract, he won’t be going anywhere yet.

Overall, the season for the 2015 San Antonio Spurs ended way too quickly, and there’s no reason why the “Core Four” of Pop,Duncan,Tony, and Manu should leave. All are doing their job pretty well still, and the Spurs are still obvious title contenders next season, especially if they re-sign players like Kawhi Leonard, and Danny Green, and possibly sign a star like Lamarcus Aldridge, or Marc Gasol. Ultimately, I think that if Duncan returns, Manu will return for one last ride. Pop will be back, and a summer of resting should heal Tony Parker of any injury, and should help him get back to his dominate self for next season. Once they lock up Kawhi, and other key players like Green and Belinelli, they should focus on another big player, like a Aldridge, Gasol, or even Kevin Love possibly. If everything comes into play, the San Antonio Spurs should have one more season left of the “Big Three” era, and are definitely title contenders for next season. In a way, the first round loss to the Clippers may be a good thing afterall. 

Thanks for the read, AB.

AB 2015 NBA Playoff Predictions : Round Two

With the first round of the 2015 NBA Playoffs finally over, I had to get my Second Round picks underway before round 2 starts. So after a somewhat good round one, here are my round two predictions. 

Western Conference :

(1) Golden State Warriors vs (5) Memphis Grizzlies 

The Warriors were … well better than I thought in round one. I predicted them to beat the Pelicans in 5 games, they did it in 4. They had an extremely impressive come from behind victory in game three, and overall had an impressive first round series. Stephen Curry played amazing, which rubbed off on everyone else, and the Warriors quickly swept the Pelicans. The Grizzlies also did better than I thought in their series. They took out the Trail Blazers in five games, and I thought that series would go to seven. Silly, silly me. Marc Gasol seems like he can’t miss, and that who ever he’s guarding can’t make a shot.The Grizzlies are playing fantastic basketball, and are again trying to get to the Finals.Good team versus good team, but I think the Warriors are the better team. Curry will be an un-stoppable force, and I see the Warriors winning in six games. (GSW – 4 MEM – 2)

 

 (2) Houston Rockets vs (3) Los Angeles Clippers 

After a VERY exciting series against my San Antonio Spurs, the LA Clippers proved they can compete with almost anybody. Blake Griffin, and Chris Paul played great throughout the series, and with production from guys like J.J Redick and DeAndre Jordan, the Clippers can beat any team. And even though the Rockets did defeat the Mavericks pretty easily in round one, I think it’s the Clippers that will step up this round. It seems that the Clippers are on a mission right now, and I see them playing another tough series against James Harden and the Houston Rockets, and I see them winning… as much as that hurts to say following a game 7 Spurs loss. Anyways, Clippers play great in round one, should carry to round two. Give me Clippers in seven games. (LAC – 4 HOU – 3)  

 

Eastern Conference :

(1) Atlanta Hawks vs (5) Washington Wizards 

Now this should be a good series. The Hawks-Wizards series should be a very exciting one, mainly because both teams are very hungry for a chance in the Eastern Conference Finals, but as we know, only one can get it. I like the series that Paul Pierce played against the Toronto Raptors in round one, and John Wall has played nothing but phenomenal all season long, and especially during round one. And even though the Hawks had to go to six games to beat the Nets, I think they’ll take care of business against the Wizards in round two. The team chemistry will be there, and they should play much better in round two, then they did in round one. Give me Hawks in six. (ATL – 4 WAS – 2) 

  

(2) Cleveland Cavaliers vs (3) Chicago Bulls

With the injury of Kevin Love staring the Cleveland Cavaliers dead in the eye, it’ll definitely be harder for them to defeat a Chicago Bulls team that’s coming off of a 54 point victory against the Milwaukee Bucks, and currently rolling, and rolling fast. The Bulls are playing great basketball at the moment, and you could argue that they can definitely beat the Cavaliers this round. But they won’t. Lebron James and Kyrie Irving will have to step up, and I think they will. Lebron will have an amazing series offensively, and should be good on the defensive side too. The loss of Love will make an impact, but it won’t be enough, and I see the Cavs barely squeaking by, in a very close seventh game. Cavs in seven. (CLE – 4 CHI – 3)  

 
Eastern Conference Finals (matchup picks) :

(1) Atlanta Hawks vs (2) Cleveland Cavaliers

Western Conference Finals (matchup picks) :

(1) Golden State Warriors vs (3) Los Angeles Clippers

Well, thanks for the read! Every view means  a lot, but I’d love for them to get higher! Please share the blog, or posts from it, and spread the word of the WOAB! With the Spurs sadly out of the post season, I’ll be writing more about their future for next and upcoming seasons, and I’ll be keeping up with the rest of the league as well. I’ll also be writing more about Fantasy Football this upcoming summer, and the Patriots off season. So stay tuned! Thanks again, enjoy the rest of the playoffs! 

A.B