The Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs were the top 2 teams in the NBA from 1999-2000 through 2008-2009. They were led by Head Coaches Phil Jackson and Gregg Popovich, respectively. They were followed closely behind by the Dallas Mavericks and Detroit Pistons.
Through the NBA Draft, players such as LeBron James and Dwyane Wade have brought hope to their respective franchises and lead the league as ambassadors into the next decade.
Coaching remains critical to team success in the NBA. Coaches such as Larry Brown, Hubie Brown, and Jerry Sloan have coached for a long time and have strong credentials.
In my opinion, Mickael Pietrus has been the difference in the Cavaliers-Magic series. We need to limit his production, as he has been the only offensive threat off Orlando's bench. I recommend putting Tarence Kinsey on him. Kinsey has the energy, speed, and athleticism to stay on him. Pietrus has averaged 14 points per game in this series, including 16.5 points in the past two Magic victories. If we can cut down his production, we should be good in this series.
Forward/Center Joe Smith was released by the Oklahoma City Thunder yesterday. Last season, Smith was a key contributor for the Cavaliers after being acquired via a trade deadline deal. It was tough to see him go when he was traded in the offseason, but his being traded brought Mo Williams to Cleveland. Now, it is possible for the Cavs to have Mo and Joe.
Bring back Joe, because . . . JOE KNOWS REBOUNDING!
