What a Bench Do?

I've narrowed it down. Struggles amongst the NBA's elite can be pinpointed to one glaring factor. Because like a beautiful city park during a Midnight Sha-Na-Na with your friends and teammates, NBA teams need a stable bench to succeed.

Take a look at old Miami. A hot topic of discussion coming into the year, Miami's lack of depth now gives them a bleak outlook of their playoff picture. Losers of 5 straight games, the Heat's lack of interchangeable parts has played the main culprit of their cloudy forecast. Miami's superstar super-core of Wade, James, and Haslem (when healthy) are doing their parts, but the overall attitude of their on-court persona as a team is completely one dimensional. The bench and supporting cast is horrible, and as a result the superstar super-core has to do everything on their own, which has lead to a lot of close games, and in those close games, many'a losses. How bad is Miami's bench? In their last 7 games, Heat reserves have shot 33 for 117, or 28% from the field.

Miami's star power is very capable of overwhelming weaker defenses in the league, but as we all know, against the top lineups, Miami's pitiful record stinks of failure. The Atlanta Hawks share the bad bench flaw, and they share the pain of being a second tier contender as well. As the thin rosters of teams like these continue to rely on 40-plus-minute-a-night games from their household name players, close games against the well balanced, luxury-smooth rotations of Dallas, Chicago, San Antonio, LA, and Boston will continue to end with Miami tears and runny noses.

A team with the opposite reserve situation, Chicago, has their workhorse in Derrick Rose (their backup point guard situation is meaningless), but when you look at the other four positions, the Chicago bench has each spot covered. In end of game scenarios, enigmatic head coach Tom Thibodeau can substitute offense for defense (or vice versa) with his entire team. If the Bulls need a bucket he's got Kyle Korver, Carlos Boozer, Luol Deng, and Rasual Butler. If they need a stop, Thibodeau sends out Ronnie "Don't Call Me Corey" Brewer, Taj Gibson, Joakim Noah, and Keith Bogans. Derrick Rose is always their anchor (with Luol Deng damn near him in that regard), but unlike the skimpy Heat, the mix-and-matching bench rotation gives the best teams their edge. It's one of the three most important distinctions of a championship caliber team, alongside lock-down team defense and master coach trickery.

And with the current state of their bench the way it is, the Miami Heat appear doomed as we head into mid March.

Music Break! Featuring Jason Kidd

Look at What the Kidd DID!



Straight out of Oakland, this West Coast track was made by J-Kidd and produced by Money B from Digital Underground(aka Shock G aka Do the Humpty Hump, who despite the novelty song is a talented guy, produced a lot Tupac's early material).

Michael Finley's Comeback

2011 is here, and with it comes Michael Finley's potential NBA comeback. Interviewed recently for ESPN.com, Finley reiterated that he's hardly finished playing basketball. If he doesn't find himself on a playoff team soon, he will try to find an opportunity for a training camp invite next fall. Finley was never a smooth ball handler, but his athleticism and shooting have given him a unique longevity. He's trimmer now than he's been in years, and frankly, Finley still has what it takes to barely play in the NBA. Let's take a moment to list the possibilities for the improbable continuation of Mike Finley's NBA career.

Los Angeles Lakers-
Michael Finley on the Lakers? Something about it just doesn't seem right. Finley's prime years came in Western Conference uniforms Phoenix, Dallas, and San Antonio, all of which are Laker-hating franchises. Don't get me wrong, if LA calls, Finley will answer with bells on. But it's not a picture we want to see painted.

Dallas Mavericks-
The basketball spirits would be in triple overtime if this Cosmos-rattling reunion were to unfold. Finley adamantly insists that there's no bad blood between himself and Mavs' brass Mark Cuban and Donnie Nelson, but it's impossible to forget that Fin-Dawg's legacy was tarnished when Dallas dismissed him via amnesty clause. One thing's for sure, Dallas has no interest in Michael Finley and, furthermore, they don't have any roster room, so this pipe dream of ours is pure fable, the kind of starry-eyed scenario saved for J.R.R. Tolkien and great grandchildren.

New Orleans Hornets-
Give the ball to Mike Finley and watch out. Finley would be a great fit. It was rumored for generations that he was always dreaming of playing alongside David Wesley as a Charlotte Hornet, and it's not unlikely that you'll spot Finley in his current home-city of Dover, Delaware, working out and running hard on local playground courts and street gyms, wearing a lucky Larry Johnson jersey.

Chicago Bulls-
Michael Finley is a Chicago guy. He was born there, and he grew up in its beautiful city streets. While in high school, a teenage Mike Finley was considered the best of his peers, and was granted a one-on-one showdown versus then superstar Michael Jordan. After the game, Jordan said to Teen Fin, "Perhaps we'll meet again someday on the professional stage." The prophecy came true, and what better a place than Chicago to come full circle on a first-rate career. If Finley does sign with Chicago, I'd be shocked if they didn't win a championship in 2011.

Fake Postgame Quotes! Orlando-Miami & Denver-Utah

"We were robbed, literally. I can't find my watch, can't find my mustache, can't find my shot, flip flop fish... man. Y'all need to get some cameras for somebody. How am I only gonna shoot a free throw?" -Wade

"I think we were really singing in the rain tonight, greeeeeeeeat ~~~ win. I l-o-v-e you Chuckles, haha yea." -Doc Howard

"I'm still here, naw mean. Aint like, naw, he aint here. I got to the arena like two hours early. Print that." -Kmart

"Yea, I thought about trying to kiss the lip tattoo like Shaq, but it's pretty close to his ear. Kinda weird." -Hayward

Which bad teams do we love the most?

Here at Triple Dribble in the 3rd Quarter, we love basketball from top to bottom, because sometimes, at the bottom, you find what you're looking for. Here are our five most lovable losers in the NBA.

5. Washington Wizards
Because simply, we love Andray Blatche. Last season he was playing "he said, she said" with Coach Flip, and he was supposedly arrested at a Borders Bookstore in late Decemeber of 2010. Now he's threatening to fight common people with a Twitter vendetta. The bookstore situation however, was proven to be inaccurate and made up, which was too bad. The Wizards, who barely saw success with a few ho-hum playoff appearances (in which they were 8-18 from 2005 to 2008) before slowly scrapping everything via trade, hit the jackpot twice recently with the number one pick, John Wall, and the highly unlikely unloading of Gilbert Arenas and his cartoon contract. Now a team of slightly promising youngsters and cast-off veterans, like Josh Howard and Rashard Lewis, Washington plays basketball two to five days a week. Tune in and watch Blatche light it up or the opposite, which is always an interesting coin toss.

4. Charlotte Bobcats
The Bobcats had a cool run to the playoffs in 2010. They had savy veteran workhorses, all from unique backgrounds, all with psychic friendships. Stephen Jackson, Boris Diaw, and Gerald Wallace were growing together after formidable years in France, Golden State, and obscurity. Suddenly, Michael freaking Jordan owned the team, and he's making crazy moves left and right. He's making moves with his eyes closed! Charlotte has the talent to perhaps make another playoff push only to lose highhandedly in the first round (AKA the bye round for Eastern Conference teams 1 and 2). Young tough guy DJ Augustin is incredible to watch, hitting shots and moving speedily. They've got a guy to root for in Shaun Livingston, who once upon a time had the worst looking knee injury anyone has ever seen. Would the world be a better place if the Bobcats were contracted? Sure, nobody goes to their games. But that doesn't stop us from enjoying their silly Bobcat ways.

3. Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis is an interesting one. They're almost, kind of, a little bit very solid. And they kind of, have been, sort of, for a few years now. Unable to sneak into the playoffs in the ultra-competitive West, Memphis's young and flashy players have gone 74-70 since the start of last season. Unlike other bad teams, Memphis has resisted to blow things up. Their hard play and exciting antics have made for a likely playoff appearance later this year, which will be their first since 2006. Their best player, Zack Randolph, used to play for teams who wanted him lobotomized. Now, he's a public relation man's dream, and the Grizzlies keep competing hard, even with the loss of their second best player, the young and pompous Rudy Gay. If they can commit a large sum of money to Zack Randolph in the form of a basketball player's contract, they should continue their success in seasons to come, meaning they may just find their way off this list one of these days.

2. Golden State Warriors
Don Nelson gets the Essence Award on this one. His gameness, grit, and life force were each a guiding light for the young and running Warriors. For years, Nellie acted bravely as his critics blamed him for all sorts of outlandish tomfoolery. But the truth of the matter is, the Golden State Warriors of California hadn't enjoyed playoff success since 1994, but then like a crazy school of fish, Nelson led his team to a historic, tiny championship type, first round series victory over the Dallas Mavericks of 2007. With confetti and booze, gambling and more, Don Nelson lived on top of the world, and the following season Golden State improved to 48-34. They became, however, the first team in NBA history to win 48 games and miss the playoffs (which just didn't seem fair at all, I mean look at some of the teams that slithered in out East). Suddenly after that, things started crashing down in Oakland. Nelson's favorite players slowly started disappearing, with Baron Davis heading to the Clippers and Stephen Jackson to Charlotte. Continuing to coach the only way he knew how (with stubborn, full force, all offense, no defense basketball) Nelson achieved his goal of becoming the coach with the most wins in NBA history, and afterward, it was apparent to all that it was finally time to go. The current Warriors haven't forgotten him though, as they continue to implement the run-and-gun offense with high scoring entertainment on a nightly basis.

1. Los Angeles Clippers
Sometimes a lovable loser creeps into your heart over time, but once in a while, you love that son of a gun right from the start, and their agonizing pit of losing for years and years becomes your constant, your rock, your diamond necklace. The Los Angeles Clippers are that bad rock. Ever since Eric Piatkowski and Keith Closs laced up for the Clip Show, I knew who to root for in LA. With an owner only a mother could love, the Clippers stink, always. They went to the second round of the playoffs in 2006 thanks to the great Sam Cassell. It was the first time they had won a playoff series since they were the Buffalo Braves in 1976. People started to speak highly of the Clippers. Elton Brand was an all star big man, and they actually made a free agent splash with the greatly overpaid Baron Davis. Then, suddenly, with all the hype, they fell back to where they've always been. The bottom. Brand bolted for the big city of Philadelphia, and Baron Davis rediscovered his love for frozen pizza. They went back to their losing ways. Rookie jackpot Blake Griffin and fire shooter Eric Gordon are making them fun to watch again, and even though they're currently near the bottom of the West, things are certainly looking up in Clipper Land. The smart bet though, like always, is that things won't be looking up for long. Hopefully, someday, we lose that bet.

The Other Block Buster

While New Jersey chased after Carmelo Anthony all season, the surprise acquisition of Deron Williams is probably the better trade.  Here’s a review of all the moving parts.

Only a couple of years ago the Jazz were a team on the rise and a western conference darling. Although the trade of Williams was probably a shock to most fans and media, a closer look might have shown that they’ve been a franchise headed for transition.  After losing several key members of last year’s team (Boozer, Brewer, and Korver) as well as a significant injury to Memo Okra, this year’s team didn’t have the depth, talent, or chemistry to compete with the contenders.  The struggle was obvious and many began to hear murmurs questioning, what the heck is going on?

The strain caused by the new roster lead to another surprise, Hall of Fame Coach Jerry Sloan resigned… a month after signing a two year extension?!  For many this was unsettling. Not only because of the coach’s legendary status but also because of the lack of definitive explanation. Sloan simply said it was time, and it may have been.  Regardless of the organization’s internal politics, losing a great coach in the middle of the season usually doesn’t energize a team struggling to stay in the playoff picture.

Perhaps the most significant factor in sparking the trade is that Deron Williams will be a free agent after next season, and the Jazz were not making headway on negotiating an extension.  After watching last year’s free agent bonanza with Lebron, Bosh, Amare, and Boozer, and the struggles of the Denever Nuggets in dealing with Carmelo, the Jazz decided it was time for Deron Williams to move on too. They were of course aided by the fact that the Melo deal essentially set up their negotiations.

New Jersey now has a franchise player and for their sake they had better keep him in the fold.

Deron Williams…  is a true pass first point guard who can shoot the three, get into the lane, and play strong muscle’m up defense.  Roughly averaging 20 points and 10 assists per game, he will instantly transform the Nets and take control of the show.  His play may not appear as dynamic as some of the other NBA stars, but the reality is that he’s a leader and winner.  New Jersey has to extend or resign Williams to continue its remodeling process.

As for the Jazz their new players and picks should allow them to stay competitive, while building a new core for the future.

Devin Harris… is a dynamic score first combo guard who really flourished in his one and only season sans Avery Johnson, a year in which he made the East All-star team. Although he is quick as lightning in the open court, he has also proven fragile and injury prone throughout his career, missing major stretches with assorted knee and ankle problems. There's no way he really replaces Williams, but not many in the league could.  In Utah, he should fit in nicely with their younger group and average steady numbers.

Derrick Favors… is a kid with upside and Utah has a good track record in the PF’s department.  At 6’10” with touch, Favors should eventually evolve into a solid NBA starter.

2 First Round Draft Picks – Some have claimed that next year’s draft class is not very strong, but a lottery pick is like what it sounds like, a better chance to acquire talent.

While Harris and Favors fill the void this season, the Jazz are working on some new tunes.

Eastern Conference Racing Updates

As the contending teams in the Eastern Conference compete their way to the regular season finish line, we look forward to seeing the top six squads prepare for the bigger and more profound battle that is the 2011 playoffs. We look ahead at where we think things will sit as the regular season winds to an end. With the additions of Chauncey Billups and Carmelo Anthony, the New York Knicks are newcomers to the East's contention board, finding themselves in the big picture with Boston, Miami, Chicago, Orlando, and generously, the Atlanta Hawks. Dreaming up incredible playoff showdowns comes naturally to us at Triple Double in the 3rd Quarter, and after a bit of stretch-run projection, we consider a few first round match-ups that we're looking forward to, and the subsequent series's that we'll see as the playoffs unfold.

Whoever obtains the top two seeds in the East will feel comfortable with their first round opponents. Whether it be the 76ers, Pacers, Bobcats, or Bucks, it's hard to envision the 1-8 and 2-7 first round series's as much more than bye rounds for the top two teams. These bubble squads fighting for post season spots have nearly no chance at upsetting their top seeded opponents, and so the big guns in the East definitely have much to fight for as they try to avoid first round face-offs against the very solid 5th or 6th place teams.

All season long we've been watching Boston and Miami hold their spots on top of the hill that is the East. It seemed improbable that the other teams had much of a chance to catch them, but suddenly the Chicago Bulls are surging, and Orlando MVP candidate Dwight Howard's wake-up call to his teammates has been temporarily answered, making things noisy out East. However, with a 4 1/2 game deficit to current second place Miami, Orlando seems destined for one of the enticing first round series's against either New York or Atlanta.

Chicago keeps winning games, and even after a tough, March 2nd road loss to the Hawks, their knocking is as loud as ever, with both Miami and Boston hearing Chicago's noisy pound. Boston's remaining schedule features the fewest games against current playoff teams, so it appears likely that they'll remain in one of the top two seeds, especially considering how a game or two in the current standings holds such value and Boston with a 3 game lead over Chicago. Miami plays two more games against current playoff teams than do the Bulls, but their game and a half lead feels stronger than the mere number and fraction actually represent. Miami's experience has a definite advantage over Chicago's, and Mike Bibby should prove to be a quality addition. He may not have the speed or toughness he once showed in the early days of his career, but he's a big time shot maker, and his ability to spread the floor and find open shooters will definitely benefit Miami down the stretch. It's not impossible, but it would be surprising if Boston or Miami slipped into the 3rd spot in the East.

New York against Chicago in the first round seems perfect. New York's new big three of Billups, Stoudamire, and Anthony are all playoff warriors, each playing deep into the playoffs in recent years. With their lead over lower seeds safe, New York has the remainder of the year to find it's chemistry. If they're able to do so, watch out Chicago, because the Knicks aren't just happy to be there. They're playing to win. Chicago's roster has the weapons to outlast the thinner squad of New York, but it should be interesting as the series unfolds. It'll be the Knicks' stellar offense against the stifling defense of Chicago, and as we all know, you can't bet against stifling D. Give me Chicago in 6.

The real first round coin toss will be the Magic against the Hawks. Atlanta doesn't have an answer for Dwight Howard, but they also have too many offensive weapons for Orlando to keep in check. If Orlando's up-and-down season finds them playing substandard ball in the first round, Atlanta's determination and depth do have what it takes to upset the sunny boys in blue. However, Orlando's been there before. I have a feeling that the guys surrounding Howard won't let themselves play lackluster basketball. The city or Orlando may depend on it, for if the Magic find themselves exiting the playoffs after the first round, it surely won't help their chances of keeping cornerstone Dwight Howard after he becomes a free agent. This sense of urgency can definitely fuel a playoff appearance, but it just as easily can lead to follies (as the Dallas Mavericks have proven year after year). The difference between success and failure in a good match-up like Orlando and Atlanta is the will to play smart and together, and it's this that separates the two teams. Orlando's history of solid decision making and good team play should be the deciding factor against the sometimes sloppy, one-on-one scoring of the Atlanta Hawks. Despite the addition of the clever Kirk Hinrich, and with the plethora of scorers the Hawks have to throw at their opposition, they just don't have the winning formula to advance in the 2011 playoffs. Orlando should win in 6.

Stay tuned for our Eastern Conference projections for the second round and Conference Finals.