Post by Boyd on Apr 21, 2006 12:35:19 GMT -4
4/29 Updates
Kobe leads Lakers to win over Suns
Kobe Bryant's numbers were not spectacular in Friday's Game 3 win over the Suns, but there was little doubt he made his team much better for this one.
He scored just six points in the first half, finishing with 17 points, five boards, seven assists and four steals on 6-of-18 shooting, but had his team sharing the ball and working well together. The Lakers now lead the Suns 2-1, and if they somehow win the series, Kobe is going to feel like the MVP trophy should definitely be on his mantle instead of Nash's. And he's probably right. All you need to know is that all five Lakers' starters scored in double figures tonight, and that was a very rare occurrence during the regular season.
Martin hits off-balance layup to beat Spurs
Kevin Martin hit the layup of his life on Friday night to beat the Spurs by a point in Game 3.
The Kings won by a point, and although Martin had just 10 points on 3-of-7 shooting, his layup at the buzzer will go down as one of the most clutch shots of this year's playoffs.
Artest solid in return from suspension
Ron Artest returned from his one-game suspension and had 22 points, 12 boards, one three, one steal and two blocks in a win over the Spurs on Friday.
Artest looked great tonight and the Kings now trail the Spurs 2-1 in the series.
Tim Thomas says he's playing Sunday
Source: Arizona Republic
Tim Thomas suffered a medial collateral ligament sprain in his left knee, but he says it won't keep him out of Game 4 on Sunday.
"It's not broke," Thomas said. "I'm playing Sunday."
Mobley may not play on Saturday
Source: Los Angeles Times
Cuttino Mobley suffered a hip flexor in Game 3 and his status is questionable for tonight.
He'll likely be a game-time decision and if he can't go, the Clippers will be without their best outside threat.
Stojakovic game-time decision Saturday
Source: Indianapolis Star
Peja Stojakovic will be a game-time decision in Saturday's Game 4.
He's questionable with a knee injury that kept him out of Game 2. If he doesn't start, Danny Granger will get the call in his place.
Kukoc to play in Game 3
Source: Detroit Free Press
The Bucks expect backup forward Toni Kukoc to return from missing the first two games with back spasms.
"It changes what they do defensively, and it changes what they do offensively, depending on where they play him," Flip Saunders said, although we're guessing he's not overly concerned.
Odom puts up big-man numbers on Friday
Lamar Odom had 15 points, 17 boards and three blocks in Friday's win over the Suns.
The Lakers lead the series 2-1 and Odom is playing very well in round one against the Suns.
Thomas hurts knee in loss to Lakers
Tim Thomas had 18 points, six rebounds, four steals and four threes on 5-of-10 shooting in Friday's loss to the Lakers.
He banged knees with Shawn Marion late in the game and returned, but then left early for the locker room. We're going to list his as questionable for Game 4.
Ginobili has costly turnover in loss
Manu Ginobili had just eight points and seven turnovers in Friday's Game 3 loss to the Kings.
He had the ball stripped late in the game by Mike Bibby, who fed Kevin Martin for a ridiculous layup for the win. Ginobili hit just 3-of-9 shots on the night.
Duncan posts big line in loss
Tim Duncan finally had a big game with 29 points, 12 boards and six blocks, but the Spurs fell to the Kings in Sacramento on Friday night.
Duncan hit 12-of-20 shots, but Kevin Martin's remarkable layup at the buzzer was the difference, as the Kings won by a point.
4/28 Updates
LeBron hits two more milestones
LeBron James scored a record-breaking 41 points at Washington on Friday in his first road playoff game.
The 41 points is an NBA record for the most points scored in a player's first road playoff game. The fact he played this well in his first road playoff game is just as impressive as his triple-double in his first home playoff game. To cap the night off, he hit his first game-winner in the playoffs, a hanging 6-footer with 5.7 seconds left to win the game for Cleveland, who led for less than two minutes the entire game. He was 16-of-28 and buried three treys on the night.
Posey suspended for Game 4
James Posey has been suspended for Sunday's Game 4.
He blindsided Kirk Hinrich in Game 3 on Thursday and the fact that Stu Jackson had good seats at the game probably didn't help his cause. Posey had been coming off the bench behind Antoine Walker and Udonis Haslem, but his defense will be missed.
Pacers on verge of shutting Tinsley down
Source: Indianapolis Star
The Pacers are considering shutting Jamaal Tinsley down for the rest of the year with his Achilles' injury.
"That's something the medical people have to discuss," coach Rick Carlisle said. "It's a conversation I haven't been involved in and I don't know what point it's at. You have to look at the long-term future of a young player as well as the short-term gains you have by playing him." The decision has been made much easier by the strong play of Anthony Johnson in his stead and no one should be surprised that Tinsley is hurt...Again.
Miller wins sixth-man award
Mike Miller won the NBA's sixth man of the year award on Friday.
He averaged 13.7 points off the bench for the Grizzlies this year.
Knicks said to be interested in K-Mart, others
Source: New York Post
Kenyon Martin may have played his last game for the Nuggets and the Knicks are said to be interested in acquiring the injury-prone star.
Along with Martin, they're also said to be interested in other injury risks, as in Alonzo Mourning and Jamaal Tinsley. They have two expiring contract they could move for Martin, in Jalen Rose and Maurice Taylor, but we really don't see how Zo, Tinsley or K-Mart are going to help the Knicks, especially if they're on the bench with injuries.
4/27 Updates
Shaq ineffective in loss
Shaquille O'Neal had just eight points and four rebounds in Thursday's loss to the Bulls.
This series got interesting tonight as the Bulls won easily and can tie the series at 2-2 with a win in Chicago in Game 4. Shaq had five fouls, seven turnovers and missed all six of his free-throw attempts in the loss. This may have been the worst game of Shaq's entire playoff career, marking just the second time he hadn't scored in double figures.
Posey ejected, suspension possible
James Posey has been ejected from Thursday's game for a flagrant 2 foul he put on Kirk Hinrich.
It was clearly a cheap shot against Hinrich, and he'll at least get a fine for his actions. The play happened right in front of Stu Jackson, who said he saw Posey "size him up" before leveling him. We'd be very surprised if Posey is not suspended by the league for Game 4.
Stojakovic has 10 points in return from injury
Peja Stojakovic returned from a knee injury and scored 10 points in Game 3 on Thursday.
He hit just 3-of-7 shots and no threes, but the Pacers rolled to an easy win over the Nets.
Jermaine O'Neal explodes for 37 point in win
On the day he was fined $15,000 for criticizing the officials, Jermaine O'Neal had a 2006 NBA playoff-high 37 points and added 15 rebounds and four blocks on 12-of-15 shooting in Thursday's Game 3 win.
O'Neal's dominance over Nenad Krstic was the difference in this game, and he'll need to have a couple more performances like this if they're going to eliminate the Nets. The Nets will try to put a game plan together in hopes of shutting J.O. down in Game 4. O'Neal also hit 13-of-14 free throws in the win.
Kaman says he's playing tonight
Source: Los Angeles Times
Despite being a game-time decision with a sprained ankle, Chris Kaman is leaving little doubt as to his availability tonight.
"I'm fine," he said. "I'm going to play; it's a playoff game." In other Clips news, Elgin Baylor was named NBA executive of the year yesterday.
Martin's suspension to last at least two games
Source: Denver Post
Kenyon Martin's suspension will last at least through the Nuggets' next two playoff games against the Clippers, starting with Game 3 tonight, coach George Karl said Wednesday.
The Nuggets signed Martin to a seven-year, $92.5 million contract in July 2004 after a trade with the New Jersey Nets, but he has been hurt for much of the time he's been with the team. Karl had a problem with Martin's inavailability for practice and games throughout the year due to a lingering knee injury, and Martin's refusal to play in the second half of Game 2 apparently pushed Karl over the edge.
Kobe leads Lakers to Game 2 win
Kobe Bryant had 29 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, a three and a steal in their Game 2 win over the Suns in Phoenix.
Kobe hit 12-of-24 shots and made an emphatic jam late in the game to help seal the win for the Lakers. They now hold home-court advantage over the Suns as the series heads to Los Angeles.
Artest to return on Friday
Source: Sacramento Bee
Ron Artest will be back in action on Friday after serving a one-game suspension, and the Kings need him, as they find themselves in an 0-2 hole against the Spurs.
"He felt bad about what happened, and he has to stay within the flow of things," Kings coach Rick Adelman said. "That's a very legit point. He is going to want to be a factor."
Jackson to play through finger injury
Source: Newark Star-Ledger
Stephen Jackson jammed his right pinkie while fouling out of Game 2 on Tuesday, and had X-rays taken yesterday.
The X-rays were negative and Jackson will probably play tonight, but he could not shoot yesterday in practice and the Pacers are worried about how effective he'll be. "He was really sore and couldn't shoot the ball," coach Rick Carlisle said. "He'll get treatment and we'll see where he is. I know he's going to play, because he plays. But we're concerned about it because it is his shooting hand."
Stojakovic a game-time decision Thursday night
Source: Indianapolis Star
Peja Stojakovic will be a game-time decision for Thursday's Game 3 with a knee injury.
He originally hurt the knee against the Pistons on April 9, but didn't miss a game until Tuesday's Game 2. He didn't practice yesterday and it's truly unknown whether he'll play tonight or not.
Hamilton plays through ankle injury, looks good
Source: Detroit Free Press
Rip Hamilton aggravated his ankle sprain in Wednesday's game, but played through the pain and looked fine.
He was in and out of the lineup all night, but finished the game. He should be ready to go for Game 3.
Van Horn may be ready for second round
Source: Dallas Morning News
Keith Van Horn will have his broken right hand X-rayed next Wednesday and remains on a restricted workout schedule until then.
He's been limited to cardiovascular work only, but should be allowed to resume basketball drills if tests next week show a layer of calcium has formed around the break in his hand. Dr. T.O. Souryal said there is a chance Van Horn could play in the second round of the playoffs. The Mavericks are half way there, leading the Grizzlies 2-0 as the series heads to Memphis.
Nash and Bell play well in Wednesday's loss
Steve Nash had 29 points, seven boards and nine assists in Wednesday's loss to the Lakers.
He hit a couple threes on 10-of-17 shooting, but the rest of his teammates (outside of Raja Bell) couldn't get their shots to fall on Wednesday night.
Bell big in Game 2 loss
Raja Bell had 23 points and three three-pointers on 8-of-15 shooting in Wednesday's loss, and scored six straight points late in the game in an effort to tie the Lakers.
He missed a three-pointer to tie the game late and the Suns never had another crack at catching the Lakers. If you take Bell and Steve Nash out of the equation, the rest of the Suns hit just 4-of-21 shots in the first half tonight.
Marion struggles in Game 2 loss
Shawn Marion got off to a very slow start in Game 2 on Wednesday and finished with just 13 points and nine boards on 5-of-15 shooting.
The Suns were out-shot 51% to 42% in the game and will have to get it together as the series heads to L.A.
Odom huge in Lakers win on Wednesday
Lamar Odom hit 9-of-12 shots and the Lakers shot 51% from the floor in Game 2 to take home-court advantage against the Suns.
Odom hit three three-pointers and finished with 21 points, seven boards, five assists, two steals and a block as the Lakers held on for a tough win in Phoenix. The Lakers hit 9-of-16 three-pointers while the Suns hit just 9-of-27 from downtown on Wednesday night.
4/26 Updates
Prince leads Pistons to Game 2 win
Tayshaun Prince led a balanced Pistons' attack on Wednesday and scored 22 points in the Game 2 win.
He had seven boards, four assists and a three while hitting 9-of-14 shots and helped the Pistons finally get a Game 2 win. They had lost their previous three Game 2's.
Redd's 29 not enough in Game 2
Michael Redd bounced back from his 11-point performance in Game 1 and had 29 points and two threes on 10-of-18 shooting in Wednesday's loss to the Pistons.
It's obvious that Redd can't handle the load by himself, but that's essentially what he's trying to do right now as the series is set to move to Milwaukee.
Mo Williams leaves with ankle sprain
Mo Williams had six points on Wednesday before aggravating his ankle injury.
He left the game in the third quarter and his status for the rest of the series is in question.
Dirk scores 31 in Game 2 win for Dallas
Dirk Nowitzki had 31 points, four boards, one block and a three on 9-of-19 shooting in Wednesday's win over the Grizzlies.
Despite the lack of boards, the Mavericks ranaway from the undermanned Grizzlies in Game 2.
Kenyon Martin suspended for detrimental conduct
Source: Denver Post
A day after Kenyon Martin decided to sit out the second half of the Nuggets' Game 2 playoff loss at the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night, he was suspended indefinitely for "conduct detrimental to the team." Francisco Elson will continue to start and Reggie Evans will see extra minutes off the bench.
An NBA source said Martin was upset that coach George Karl did not respect his attempt to try to play his knee injury. It is said that the suspension probably won't last longer than the first round of the playoffs, but until it is lifted, Martin will not attend practices or games. "He was angry," Karl said. "To me he basically didn't think he could play anymore. I don't know if that's a blowup. I've had a lot worse than that." The Nuggets are a mess right now, losers of four straight games and in a 2-0 hole against the Clippers. Maybe they'll be better off without K-Mart around.
Stojakovic questionable with knee injury
Source: Indianapolis Star
An MRI on Peja Stojakovic's knee revealed no structural damage, but coach Rick Carlisle opted to go without him in Tuesday's Game 2.
"He just wasn't able to cut on it and move the way he needs to," Carlisle said. "We are just hopeful that with another day and a half of rest, it'll calm down and he'll be able to play." He's questionable for Thursday's Game 3 in Indy.
Hamilton hopes to play through ankle sprain
Source: Detroit Free Press
Richard Hamilton participated in some non-contact drills during practice Tuesday with his sprained left ankle, but hopes to do more in today's shootaround in preparation for Game 2 on Wednesday night.
"It's getting better," Hamilton said. "I'm happy that we had a couple of days before the next game. Hopefully I'll feel good by tomorrow night," he said yesterday. "It's mind over matter," Hamilton said. "I think that I've got to get myself there mentally so that once that ball's thrown up, you can't think about anything but the game of basketball."
Ginobili huge in Game 2 win
Manu Ginobili had 32 points, nine assists and three three-pointers in Tuesday's win over the Kings.
He hit 10-of-20 shots and had a big fourth quarter in the overtime win.
Vinsanity bounces back in Game 2 win
Vince Carter played through his bruised wrist and tailbone, and bounced back strong from an off-shooting night in Game 1, finishing with 33 points on Tuesday.
He hit 12-of-20 shots and added five boards, four assists, a steal and a block, but was just 1-of-6 from downtown in the win.
Nash to be named MVP again
Source: Arizona Republic
According to an anonymous league source, Steve Nash will win his second straight MVP award this season.
The announcement may not come for two weeks, but when it does, get ready for racially motivated controversy to come along with it. Nash edged Shaquille O'Neal and Allen Iverson for the honor last year, and it sounds like he edged Kobe Bryant and LeBron James (among others) this year. He posted career highs in scoring (18.8), rebounds (4.2), FG% (.512) and FT% (NBA-best .921). He also led the league in assists with 10.5 per game and finished sixth in three-point shooting (43.9 percent).
Kukoc to sit out Game 2 with back spasms
Source: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinal
Toni Kukoc will miss tonight's Game 2 with back spasms.
They also kept him out of Game 1, and with Bobby Simmons and Mo Williams also hurting, things aren't looking so bright as the Bucks try to find a way to beat the Pistons. Apr. 26 - 10:24 am et
Barry sends game to overtime with dramatic three
Brent Barry had 22 points on 8-of-12 shooting and tied Tuesday's game with a dramatic three-pointer that went in and out, and then back in to send the game to an extra session, where the Spurs held on for the win. Barry was 4-of-7 from downtown, and benefitted from a great pick by Tim Duncan on Mike Bibby to break free for the wide-open look.
LeBron struggles with shot, turnovers in Game 2
LeBron James almost had another triple-double on Tuesday, but it wasn't a good one. He had 26 points, nine boards and 10 turnovers while hitting just 7-of-25 shots in the loss. He'll play better in Game 3, but the Wizards stepped up their defense on the King tonight. He did have two steals and three blocks, but was visibly frustrated by the Wizards all night.
Bonzi has big game in loss
Bonzi Wells hit 12-of-17 shots for a playoff career-high 28 points and 12 rebounds in Tuesday's loss before fouling out.
He hit just 4-of-8 free throws and his misses hurt the Kings down the stretch.
4/25 Updates
Stojakovic out with knee injury
Peja Stojakovic is not active for Tuesday's game.
He was listed as being in the starting lineup just an hour before tip-off, but has a right knee injury that will prevent him from going tonight. Danny Granger is starting in his place.
Tinsley makes surprise appearance on Tuesday
Jamaal Tinsley has checked in to Tuesday's game.
He's been questionable with an Achilles' injury, and even said yesterday that he wouldn't be playing tonight.
4/24 Updates
Nocioni scores career high in Game 2
Andres Nocioni hit 13-of-15 shots for a career-high 30 points and six rebounds in Monday's loss to the Heat.
He was unstoppable tonight, and combined with Kirk Hinrich to bring the Bulls back from a 20-point deficit to cut the lead to four points with under two minutes left. The Heat eventually pulled away, but the Bulls never quit tonight.
Wade money in clutch on Monday
Dwyane Wade hit a jumper off a nice spin move with 1:04 left in Monday's game to halt a furious Bulls comeback attempt.
The Bulls cut a 20-point lead to four with about two minutes remaining, but Wade's spin moved ended their night. Wade finished with 21 points, five boards, seven assists, four steals and two blocks in the win, and hit 10-of-20 shots. He had been questionable with a calf injury.
Artest suspended for Game 2
Ron Artest has been suspended for for Tuesday's Game 2 against the Spurs for throwing a right forearm at Manu Ginobili in Saturday's game.
The Kings were looking so good 48 hours ago, but there's a very good chance they'll fall into a 2-0 hole that will not be easy to climb out of.
Haslem suspended for Monday's Game 2
Udonis Haslem has been suspended for Game 2 for throwing his mouthpiece in the direction of official Joey Crawford.
The Heat will certainly miss him, and this could mean that Alonzo Mourning will try to play tonight despite still dealing with a torn calf muscle.
Radmanovic game-time decision Monday
Vladimir Radmanovic is listed as a game-time decision for Game 2 against the Nuggets with a left wrist sprain and hand bruise.
He suffered the injury after he tried to brace his fall when Marcus Camby took a defensive charge with 24 seconds left in the Clippers' 89-87 win in Game 1 on Saturday. "I'm just trying to be able to play," Radmanovic said after practice Sunday. "It's the left wrist. It's not going to affect my shooting that much. I still won't be able to do different things that's important in defense and rebounding."
Source: Denver Post
Hamilton's ankle should be fine by Wednesday
Rip Hamilton sprained his ankle in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game, and while he returned to action afterwards, he finished the game on the bench.
X-rays were negative and the injury is not thought to be serious. Pistons coach Flip Saunders said that had the game been close, Hamilton could have come back and he's listed as day-to-day. The Pistons don't play again until Wednesday, so don't be surprised to see him back in the starting lineup on Wednesday.
Source: Detroit Free Press
4/22 Updates
Wade goes off before leaving with cramps in win
Dwyane Wade had 30 points, 11 assists, three steals and two blocks in Saturday's Game 1 win over the Bulls.
He continued to struggle from the floor against the Bulls, hitting just 8-of-21 shots from the field, but the Heat held on for the win despite the ejection of Udonis Haslem. Wade missed the final eight seconds of the game, apparently suffering from cramps, but scored six straight points at one point in the fourth quarter to bring the Heat back from their only deficit of the night.
Wade expects to be ready for Game 2
After leaving Game 1 with severe cramps in his calf, Dwyane Wade said he should be ready to go for Game 2 on Monday.
"I'll be all right," Wade said. "I'll get a lot of liquids and Gatorade in me tonight, and I'll be good for Monday." Despite the injury, Flash still finished with a team-high 30 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter.
Haslem ejected for throwing mouthpiece
Udonis Haslem has been ejected with about four minutes remaining in the second quarter of Game 1 against Chicago for throwing his mouthpiece at the ref.
Haslem was upset with ref Joey Crawford after not getting a foul call under the basket. He could be facing a suspension for throwing something at the official.
Josh Howard iffy with back injury
Josh Howard's lower back tightened up after he came out of Wednesday's game, and is still bothering him to the point that he could not take part in the Mavericks' practice on Friday.
"I don't really know what it is," Howard said. "It's just tight." As for playing in Game 1, he is hopeful that he'll be able to go. "Right now is the most important time to play, so I'll go out there and play," he said. "It's two days away, so I should be back. It's nothing major like that." If he can't play on Sunday, Jerry Stackhouse would likely get the start in his place.
Kobe leads Lakers to win over Suns
Kobe Bryant's numbers were not spectacular in Friday's Game 3 win over the Suns, but there was little doubt he made his team much better for this one.
He scored just six points in the first half, finishing with 17 points, five boards, seven assists and four steals on 6-of-18 shooting, but had his team sharing the ball and working well together. The Lakers now lead the Suns 2-1, and if they somehow win the series, Kobe is going to feel like the MVP trophy should definitely be on his mantle instead of Nash's. And he's probably right. All you need to know is that all five Lakers' starters scored in double figures tonight, and that was a very rare occurrence during the regular season.
Martin hits off-balance layup to beat Spurs
Kevin Martin hit the layup of his life on Friday night to beat the Spurs by a point in Game 3.
The Kings won by a point, and although Martin had just 10 points on 3-of-7 shooting, his layup at the buzzer will go down as one of the most clutch shots of this year's playoffs.
Artest solid in return from suspension
Ron Artest returned from his one-game suspension and had 22 points, 12 boards, one three, one steal and two blocks in a win over the Spurs on Friday.
Artest looked great tonight and the Kings now trail the Spurs 2-1 in the series.
Tim Thomas says he's playing Sunday
Source: Arizona Republic
Tim Thomas suffered a medial collateral ligament sprain in his left knee, but he says it won't keep him out of Game 4 on Sunday.
"It's not broke," Thomas said. "I'm playing Sunday."
Mobley may not play on Saturday
Source: Los Angeles Times
Cuttino Mobley suffered a hip flexor in Game 3 and his status is questionable for tonight.
He'll likely be a game-time decision and if he can't go, the Clippers will be without their best outside threat.
Stojakovic game-time decision Saturday
Source: Indianapolis Star
Peja Stojakovic will be a game-time decision in Saturday's Game 4.
He's questionable with a knee injury that kept him out of Game 2. If he doesn't start, Danny Granger will get the call in his place.
Kukoc to play in Game 3
Source: Detroit Free Press
The Bucks expect backup forward Toni Kukoc to return from missing the first two games with back spasms.
"It changes what they do defensively, and it changes what they do offensively, depending on where they play him," Flip Saunders said, although we're guessing he's not overly concerned.
Odom puts up big-man numbers on Friday
Lamar Odom had 15 points, 17 boards and three blocks in Friday's win over the Suns.
The Lakers lead the series 2-1 and Odom is playing very well in round one against the Suns.
Thomas hurts knee in loss to Lakers
Tim Thomas had 18 points, six rebounds, four steals and four threes on 5-of-10 shooting in Friday's loss to the Lakers.
He banged knees with Shawn Marion late in the game and returned, but then left early for the locker room. We're going to list his as questionable for Game 4.
Ginobili has costly turnover in loss
Manu Ginobili had just eight points and seven turnovers in Friday's Game 3 loss to the Kings.
He had the ball stripped late in the game by Mike Bibby, who fed Kevin Martin for a ridiculous layup for the win. Ginobili hit just 3-of-9 shots on the night.
Duncan posts big line in loss
Tim Duncan finally had a big game with 29 points, 12 boards and six blocks, but the Spurs fell to the Kings in Sacramento on Friday night.
Duncan hit 12-of-20 shots, but Kevin Martin's remarkable layup at the buzzer was the difference, as the Kings won by a point.
4/28 Updates
LeBron hits two more milestones
LeBron James scored a record-breaking 41 points at Washington on Friday in his first road playoff game.
The 41 points is an NBA record for the most points scored in a player's first road playoff game. The fact he played this well in his first road playoff game is just as impressive as his triple-double in his first home playoff game. To cap the night off, he hit his first game-winner in the playoffs, a hanging 6-footer with 5.7 seconds left to win the game for Cleveland, who led for less than two minutes the entire game. He was 16-of-28 and buried three treys on the night.
Posey suspended for Game 4
James Posey has been suspended for Sunday's Game 4.
He blindsided Kirk Hinrich in Game 3 on Thursday and the fact that Stu Jackson had good seats at the game probably didn't help his cause. Posey had been coming off the bench behind Antoine Walker and Udonis Haslem, but his defense will be missed.
Pacers on verge of shutting Tinsley down
Source: Indianapolis Star
The Pacers are considering shutting Jamaal Tinsley down for the rest of the year with his Achilles' injury.
"That's something the medical people have to discuss," coach Rick Carlisle said. "It's a conversation I haven't been involved in and I don't know what point it's at. You have to look at the long-term future of a young player as well as the short-term gains you have by playing him." The decision has been made much easier by the strong play of Anthony Johnson in his stead and no one should be surprised that Tinsley is hurt...Again.
Miller wins sixth-man award
Mike Miller won the NBA's sixth man of the year award on Friday.
He averaged 13.7 points off the bench for the Grizzlies this year.
Knicks said to be interested in K-Mart, others
Source: New York Post
Kenyon Martin may have played his last game for the Nuggets and the Knicks are said to be interested in acquiring the injury-prone star.
Along with Martin, they're also said to be interested in other injury risks, as in Alonzo Mourning and Jamaal Tinsley. They have two expiring contract they could move for Martin, in Jalen Rose and Maurice Taylor, but we really don't see how Zo, Tinsley or K-Mart are going to help the Knicks, especially if they're on the bench with injuries.
4/27 Updates
Shaq ineffective in loss
Shaquille O'Neal had just eight points and four rebounds in Thursday's loss to the Bulls.
This series got interesting tonight as the Bulls won easily and can tie the series at 2-2 with a win in Chicago in Game 4. Shaq had five fouls, seven turnovers and missed all six of his free-throw attempts in the loss. This may have been the worst game of Shaq's entire playoff career, marking just the second time he hadn't scored in double figures.
Posey ejected, suspension possible
James Posey has been ejected from Thursday's game for a flagrant 2 foul he put on Kirk Hinrich.
It was clearly a cheap shot against Hinrich, and he'll at least get a fine for his actions. The play happened right in front of Stu Jackson, who said he saw Posey "size him up" before leveling him. We'd be very surprised if Posey is not suspended by the league for Game 4.
Stojakovic has 10 points in return from injury
Peja Stojakovic returned from a knee injury and scored 10 points in Game 3 on Thursday.
He hit just 3-of-7 shots and no threes, but the Pacers rolled to an easy win over the Nets.
Jermaine O'Neal explodes for 37 point in win
On the day he was fined $15,000 for criticizing the officials, Jermaine O'Neal had a 2006 NBA playoff-high 37 points and added 15 rebounds and four blocks on 12-of-15 shooting in Thursday's Game 3 win.
O'Neal's dominance over Nenad Krstic was the difference in this game, and he'll need to have a couple more performances like this if they're going to eliminate the Nets. The Nets will try to put a game plan together in hopes of shutting J.O. down in Game 4. O'Neal also hit 13-of-14 free throws in the win.
Kaman says he's playing tonight
Source: Los Angeles Times
Despite being a game-time decision with a sprained ankle, Chris Kaman is leaving little doubt as to his availability tonight.
"I'm fine," he said. "I'm going to play; it's a playoff game." In other Clips news, Elgin Baylor was named NBA executive of the year yesterday.
Martin's suspension to last at least two games
Source: Denver Post
Kenyon Martin's suspension will last at least through the Nuggets' next two playoff games against the Clippers, starting with Game 3 tonight, coach George Karl said Wednesday.
The Nuggets signed Martin to a seven-year, $92.5 million contract in July 2004 after a trade with the New Jersey Nets, but he has been hurt for much of the time he's been with the team. Karl had a problem with Martin's inavailability for practice and games throughout the year due to a lingering knee injury, and Martin's refusal to play in the second half of Game 2 apparently pushed Karl over the edge.
Kobe leads Lakers to Game 2 win
Kobe Bryant had 29 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, a three and a steal in their Game 2 win over the Suns in Phoenix.
Kobe hit 12-of-24 shots and made an emphatic jam late in the game to help seal the win for the Lakers. They now hold home-court advantage over the Suns as the series heads to Los Angeles.
Artest to return on Friday
Source: Sacramento Bee
Ron Artest will be back in action on Friday after serving a one-game suspension, and the Kings need him, as they find themselves in an 0-2 hole against the Spurs.
"He felt bad about what happened, and he has to stay within the flow of things," Kings coach Rick Adelman said. "That's a very legit point. He is going to want to be a factor."
Jackson to play through finger injury
Source: Newark Star-Ledger
Stephen Jackson jammed his right pinkie while fouling out of Game 2 on Tuesday, and had X-rays taken yesterday.
The X-rays were negative and Jackson will probably play tonight, but he could not shoot yesterday in practice and the Pacers are worried about how effective he'll be. "He was really sore and couldn't shoot the ball," coach Rick Carlisle said. "He'll get treatment and we'll see where he is. I know he's going to play, because he plays. But we're concerned about it because it is his shooting hand."
Stojakovic a game-time decision Thursday night
Source: Indianapolis Star
Peja Stojakovic will be a game-time decision for Thursday's Game 3 with a knee injury.
He originally hurt the knee against the Pistons on April 9, but didn't miss a game until Tuesday's Game 2. He didn't practice yesterday and it's truly unknown whether he'll play tonight or not.
Hamilton plays through ankle injury, looks good
Source: Detroit Free Press
Rip Hamilton aggravated his ankle sprain in Wednesday's game, but played through the pain and looked fine.
He was in and out of the lineup all night, but finished the game. He should be ready to go for Game 3.
Van Horn may be ready for second round
Source: Dallas Morning News
Keith Van Horn will have his broken right hand X-rayed next Wednesday and remains on a restricted workout schedule until then.
He's been limited to cardiovascular work only, but should be allowed to resume basketball drills if tests next week show a layer of calcium has formed around the break in his hand. Dr. T.O. Souryal said there is a chance Van Horn could play in the second round of the playoffs. The Mavericks are half way there, leading the Grizzlies 2-0 as the series heads to Memphis.
Nash and Bell play well in Wednesday's loss
Steve Nash had 29 points, seven boards and nine assists in Wednesday's loss to the Lakers.
He hit a couple threes on 10-of-17 shooting, but the rest of his teammates (outside of Raja Bell) couldn't get their shots to fall on Wednesday night.
Bell big in Game 2 loss
Raja Bell had 23 points and three three-pointers on 8-of-15 shooting in Wednesday's loss, and scored six straight points late in the game in an effort to tie the Lakers.
He missed a three-pointer to tie the game late and the Suns never had another crack at catching the Lakers. If you take Bell and Steve Nash out of the equation, the rest of the Suns hit just 4-of-21 shots in the first half tonight.
Marion struggles in Game 2 loss
Shawn Marion got off to a very slow start in Game 2 on Wednesday and finished with just 13 points and nine boards on 5-of-15 shooting.
The Suns were out-shot 51% to 42% in the game and will have to get it together as the series heads to L.A.
Odom huge in Lakers win on Wednesday
Lamar Odom hit 9-of-12 shots and the Lakers shot 51% from the floor in Game 2 to take home-court advantage against the Suns.
Odom hit three three-pointers and finished with 21 points, seven boards, five assists, two steals and a block as the Lakers held on for a tough win in Phoenix. The Lakers hit 9-of-16 three-pointers while the Suns hit just 9-of-27 from downtown on Wednesday night.
4/26 Updates
Prince leads Pistons to Game 2 win
Tayshaun Prince led a balanced Pistons' attack on Wednesday and scored 22 points in the Game 2 win.
He had seven boards, four assists and a three while hitting 9-of-14 shots and helped the Pistons finally get a Game 2 win. They had lost their previous three Game 2's.
Redd's 29 not enough in Game 2
Michael Redd bounced back from his 11-point performance in Game 1 and had 29 points and two threes on 10-of-18 shooting in Wednesday's loss to the Pistons.
It's obvious that Redd can't handle the load by himself, but that's essentially what he's trying to do right now as the series is set to move to Milwaukee.
Mo Williams leaves with ankle sprain
Mo Williams had six points on Wednesday before aggravating his ankle injury.
He left the game in the third quarter and his status for the rest of the series is in question.
Dirk scores 31 in Game 2 win for Dallas
Dirk Nowitzki had 31 points, four boards, one block and a three on 9-of-19 shooting in Wednesday's win over the Grizzlies.
Despite the lack of boards, the Mavericks ranaway from the undermanned Grizzlies in Game 2.
Kenyon Martin suspended for detrimental conduct
Source: Denver Post
A day after Kenyon Martin decided to sit out the second half of the Nuggets' Game 2 playoff loss at the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night, he was suspended indefinitely for "conduct detrimental to the team." Francisco Elson will continue to start and Reggie Evans will see extra minutes off the bench.
An NBA source said Martin was upset that coach George Karl did not respect his attempt to try to play his knee injury. It is said that the suspension probably won't last longer than the first round of the playoffs, but until it is lifted, Martin will not attend practices or games. "He was angry," Karl said. "To me he basically didn't think he could play anymore. I don't know if that's a blowup. I've had a lot worse than that." The Nuggets are a mess right now, losers of four straight games and in a 2-0 hole against the Clippers. Maybe they'll be better off without K-Mart around.
Stojakovic questionable with knee injury
Source: Indianapolis Star
An MRI on Peja Stojakovic's knee revealed no structural damage, but coach Rick Carlisle opted to go without him in Tuesday's Game 2.
"He just wasn't able to cut on it and move the way he needs to," Carlisle said. "We are just hopeful that with another day and a half of rest, it'll calm down and he'll be able to play." He's questionable for Thursday's Game 3 in Indy.
Hamilton hopes to play through ankle sprain
Source: Detroit Free Press
Richard Hamilton participated in some non-contact drills during practice Tuesday with his sprained left ankle, but hopes to do more in today's shootaround in preparation for Game 2 on Wednesday night.
"It's getting better," Hamilton said. "I'm happy that we had a couple of days before the next game. Hopefully I'll feel good by tomorrow night," he said yesterday. "It's mind over matter," Hamilton said. "I think that I've got to get myself there mentally so that once that ball's thrown up, you can't think about anything but the game of basketball."
Ginobili huge in Game 2 win
Manu Ginobili had 32 points, nine assists and three three-pointers in Tuesday's win over the Kings.
He hit 10-of-20 shots and had a big fourth quarter in the overtime win.
Vinsanity bounces back in Game 2 win
Vince Carter played through his bruised wrist and tailbone, and bounced back strong from an off-shooting night in Game 1, finishing with 33 points on Tuesday.
He hit 12-of-20 shots and added five boards, four assists, a steal and a block, but was just 1-of-6 from downtown in the win.
Nash to be named MVP again
Source: Arizona Republic
According to an anonymous league source, Steve Nash will win his second straight MVP award this season.
The announcement may not come for two weeks, but when it does, get ready for racially motivated controversy to come along with it. Nash edged Shaquille O'Neal and Allen Iverson for the honor last year, and it sounds like he edged Kobe Bryant and LeBron James (among others) this year. He posted career highs in scoring (18.8), rebounds (4.2), FG% (.512) and FT% (NBA-best .921). He also led the league in assists with 10.5 per game and finished sixth in three-point shooting (43.9 percent).
Kukoc to sit out Game 2 with back spasms
Source: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinal
Toni Kukoc will miss tonight's Game 2 with back spasms.
They also kept him out of Game 1, and with Bobby Simmons and Mo Williams also hurting, things aren't looking so bright as the Bucks try to find a way to beat the Pistons. Apr. 26 - 10:24 am et
Barry sends game to overtime with dramatic three
Brent Barry had 22 points on 8-of-12 shooting and tied Tuesday's game with a dramatic three-pointer that went in and out, and then back in to send the game to an extra session, where the Spurs held on for the win. Barry was 4-of-7 from downtown, and benefitted from a great pick by Tim Duncan on Mike Bibby to break free for the wide-open look.
LeBron struggles with shot, turnovers in Game 2
LeBron James almost had another triple-double on Tuesday, but it wasn't a good one. He had 26 points, nine boards and 10 turnovers while hitting just 7-of-25 shots in the loss. He'll play better in Game 3, but the Wizards stepped up their defense on the King tonight. He did have two steals and three blocks, but was visibly frustrated by the Wizards all night.
Bonzi has big game in loss
Bonzi Wells hit 12-of-17 shots for a playoff career-high 28 points and 12 rebounds in Tuesday's loss before fouling out.
He hit just 4-of-8 free throws and his misses hurt the Kings down the stretch.
4/25 Updates
Stojakovic out with knee injury
Peja Stojakovic is not active for Tuesday's game.
He was listed as being in the starting lineup just an hour before tip-off, but has a right knee injury that will prevent him from going tonight. Danny Granger is starting in his place.
Tinsley makes surprise appearance on Tuesday
Jamaal Tinsley has checked in to Tuesday's game.
He's been questionable with an Achilles' injury, and even said yesterday that he wouldn't be playing tonight.
4/24 Updates
Nocioni scores career high in Game 2
Andres Nocioni hit 13-of-15 shots for a career-high 30 points and six rebounds in Monday's loss to the Heat.
He was unstoppable tonight, and combined with Kirk Hinrich to bring the Bulls back from a 20-point deficit to cut the lead to four points with under two minutes left. The Heat eventually pulled away, but the Bulls never quit tonight.
Wade money in clutch on Monday
Dwyane Wade hit a jumper off a nice spin move with 1:04 left in Monday's game to halt a furious Bulls comeback attempt.
The Bulls cut a 20-point lead to four with about two minutes remaining, but Wade's spin moved ended their night. Wade finished with 21 points, five boards, seven assists, four steals and two blocks in the win, and hit 10-of-20 shots. He had been questionable with a calf injury.
Artest suspended for Game 2
Ron Artest has been suspended for for Tuesday's Game 2 against the Spurs for throwing a right forearm at Manu Ginobili in Saturday's game.
The Kings were looking so good 48 hours ago, but there's a very good chance they'll fall into a 2-0 hole that will not be easy to climb out of.
Haslem suspended for Monday's Game 2
Udonis Haslem has been suspended for Game 2 for throwing his mouthpiece in the direction of official Joey Crawford.
The Heat will certainly miss him, and this could mean that Alonzo Mourning will try to play tonight despite still dealing with a torn calf muscle.
Radmanovic game-time decision Monday
Vladimir Radmanovic is listed as a game-time decision for Game 2 against the Nuggets with a left wrist sprain and hand bruise.
He suffered the injury after he tried to brace his fall when Marcus Camby took a defensive charge with 24 seconds left in the Clippers' 89-87 win in Game 1 on Saturday. "I'm just trying to be able to play," Radmanovic said after practice Sunday. "It's the left wrist. It's not going to affect my shooting that much. I still won't be able to do different things that's important in defense and rebounding."
Source: Denver Post
Hamilton's ankle should be fine by Wednesday
Rip Hamilton sprained his ankle in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game, and while he returned to action afterwards, he finished the game on the bench.
X-rays were negative and the injury is not thought to be serious. Pistons coach Flip Saunders said that had the game been close, Hamilton could have come back and he's listed as day-to-day. The Pistons don't play again until Wednesday, so don't be surprised to see him back in the starting lineup on Wednesday.
Source: Detroit Free Press
4/22 Updates
Wade goes off before leaving with cramps in win
Dwyane Wade had 30 points, 11 assists, three steals and two blocks in Saturday's Game 1 win over the Bulls.
He continued to struggle from the floor against the Bulls, hitting just 8-of-21 shots from the field, but the Heat held on for the win despite the ejection of Udonis Haslem. Wade missed the final eight seconds of the game, apparently suffering from cramps, but scored six straight points at one point in the fourth quarter to bring the Heat back from their only deficit of the night.
Wade expects to be ready for Game 2
After leaving Game 1 with severe cramps in his calf, Dwyane Wade said he should be ready to go for Game 2 on Monday.
"I'll be all right," Wade said. "I'll get a lot of liquids and Gatorade in me tonight, and I'll be good for Monday." Despite the injury, Flash still finished with a team-high 30 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter.
Haslem ejected for throwing mouthpiece
Udonis Haslem has been ejected with about four minutes remaining in the second quarter of Game 1 against Chicago for throwing his mouthpiece at the ref.
Haslem was upset with ref Joey Crawford after not getting a foul call under the basket. He could be facing a suspension for throwing something at the official.
Josh Howard iffy with back injury
Josh Howard's lower back tightened up after he came out of Wednesday's game, and is still bothering him to the point that he could not take part in the Mavericks' practice on Friday.
"I don't really know what it is," Howard said. "It's just tight." As for playing in Game 1, he is hopeful that he'll be able to go. "Right now is the most important time to play, so I'll go out there and play," he said. "It's two days away, so I should be back. It's nothing major like that." If he can't play on Sunday, Jerry Stackhouse would likely get the start in his place.