Be on the lookout
I’m
working on a project, I’m gathering a group of former players, officials and
plain basketball fans. We are going to
cover the FBI/Adidas story and what should be done in the future. In addition, the issue of high school players
in the NBA draft and other topics. We
should complete this in about a month but wanted to provide you advance notice.
More help
Mizzou
received more good news on Saturday evening.
Mark Smith a 6-foot 4-inch 215-pound combo guard made his commitment
known, he chose Mizzou over several schools with offers. The Illinois transfer will sit out the
2018-19 season but will have three years of eligibility remaining. Smith was a Rivals Top 60 prospect in 2017
and Mr. Basketball for the State of Illinois that year.
There
were 16 programs across the nation (including Mizzou) with offers on the table,
Smith choose to attend Illinois. His
freshman year was not as productive as hoped and he decided in favor of
choosing another school. I anticipate he
will make a smooth transition into the offense and defense for Mizzou. I haven’t seen him play but must depend on
the Mizzou coaching staff who rate him a worthy prospect to add to Mizzou’s
roster, welcome Mr. Smith.
Rumors
I’m
sure before August 2018 there will be several reported trades, in some
instances a trade or trades might be consummated. This one from Bleacher Report is interesting because it involves the Spurs All-Pro
athlete Kawhi Leonard. According to the
website the Clippers with a package of players are exploring a method to add
Leonard to their roster. It makes sense
on several levels however I have questions.
There
are reservations on my part if the Clippers have enough resources to entice the
Spurs, these are not the Clippers of 3 or 4 years ago. They are minus Paul, Griffin and Reddick and
several others. In San Antonio Leonard
has quietly indicated he
wants a change of address. My only
question who do the Clippers trade besides DeAndre Jordan? The Clippers have plenty of warm bodies but
I’m unsure they can put together a package of players without including a third
team. Just my thoughts, what do you
think?
The results
The
Saturday afternoon and evening games proved quite interesting. You can get the details from ESPN’s SportsCenter
or NBA TV’s Gametime.
Golden
State a 113-92 winner over San Antonio, I didn’t know what to expect with no
Step Curry.
Toronto
won 114-106 over Washington, I believe the Raptors are a superior team the
Wizards are yet to prove to me they are ready to be winners in the playoffs.
Philadelphia
130 Miami 103, this surprised I believe the Sixers will win the series I didn’t
expect them to beat down the Heat.
New
Orleans 97 Portland 95, Rajon Rondo seems to wear out his welcome
everywhere. On the surface he must love
Alvin Gentry and his Pelicans teammates 17 assists.
