"NBAz in 7 Dayz"

Today, as promised, we will be discussing the hunt for "Rookie of the Year" and who makes the cut. But first, let's talk a little NCAA and rapper Jay-Z's visit to Kentucky's locker room after just making it to the Final Four. As the madness of March continues, NCAA fans watched the Kentucky Wildcats claim a berth in the Final Four by a win over North Carolina, 76-69. So naturally, if a well-known entertainer wants in on the locker room celebrations to give his kudos, there would be no objections, right? In Jay-Z's case? Wrong. Sure, these young kids just accomplished something wonderful and a visit from THE Jay-Z would be the coolest thing in the world if he wasn't part owner of an NBA franchise. The New Jersey Nets lists Jay-Z as part-owner of the team and NBA rules state team personnel are not allowed to associate with players who are not yet draft eligible. This may just be a case of Jay-Z or his handlers saying 'let's give these kids an extra thrill by a visit from a music legend'. But on the flip side, Jay-Z is no slouch. He is an intelligent and successful business man who has to know these rules. Put yourself in David Stern's shoes. If you were a young kid, playing NCAA ball, thinking about going pro and in walks a music icon you look up to and he happens to have personal connections to an NBA franchise, wouldn't you look at the Nets differently? Hence, the reason for these rules so no one is playing the 'unfair advantage' game. NBA spokesman Tim Frank confirms the league is investigating the incident. So we will have to wait and see about Jay-Z.

2011 Rookie of the Year Watch

This is a hard one to pick since most players in their rookie year are drafted to a team in transition or a rebuilding stage. So since these teams are often in need of serious help, putting all their hopes and dreams into a talented, yet unproven player in the NBA. This can be a lot of pressure for someone fresh out of college. How does this player handle the pressure? Does this player work well with others on the team and coaching staff? Does this player make the team relevant again? Most importantly, how does this player deal with adversity and do they raise the bar and make those around him better? These are all questions I need answered when choosing my picks for Rookie of the Year - here they are (in no particular order):

DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings: If we look at his on-the-court performance and stats only, DeMarcus Cousins is very impressive, especially in transition. He leads the league in winning turnovers per 48 minutes which puts him in the same class as Steve Nash (ranked #3), Dwight Howard (ranked #7) and Derrick Rose (ranked #10). He is approaching the top ten in both offensive and defensive rebounds and is really the player who contributes to the team's stability - on the court. Unfortunately, he still has to work on his character and work ethic which is why he did not make my choice for top rookie.

John Wall, Washington Wizards: I remember covering the NBA Draft with James, live blogging for the DNB and giddy at the prospect John Wall might be in a Raptors uniform this season. Alas, we were not so lucky and the Washington Wizards enjoyed the fruits of his labour this year. John Wall is another player working the floor and making a name for himself. The Wizards may sit at second from last in the East but not for a lack of production from Wall. He can score in transition and is second in the league for turnovers per game (behind Russell Westbrook) and is sixth in assists per game.

Greg Monroe, Detroit Pistons: I really enjoy watching Greg Monroe play. He's not a flashy player but he seems to be doing all the little things which contribute to his team's success. He ranked #8 in Offensive Rebounds and #8 in Steals per Turnover which is indicative of his dominance as an inside player, one who can read the play and seize opportunities.

Landry Fields, New York Knicks: Landry Fields is one of those players you miss when they are not in the line-up. He started the first 72 games of the season for the Knicks and after riding the bench for a short while, has regained his starting position. He is one of only two rookies to be included in the top 50 in the league for minutes played (2, 369 minutes played) ahead of Lamar Odom and Deron Williams. He may not be making the top ten of any stats list but he knows how to deal with adversity, knows his role within the Knicks' system and is a real team player in my eyes.

Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers: I know some are going to argue he should not even be eligible based on sitting out last season due to injury but for that very reason makes him my top choice for Rookie of the year. In the eyes of the NBA, Blake Griffin is considered a rookie since his injury occurred during the pre-season and he sat out the 2009-2010 regular season. But "sit around" he did not. For a rookie to sustain that type of injury (stress fracture in his left knee) before he's even had a chance to prove himself, would have been the kiss of death for any other player. But he battled back, working all of 2009-2010 with a trainer to be in top shape for when he returned to the NBA for this season. He is well-known for his dunks but he is not the one-dimensional player some argue he is. Stats don't count for everything but they do speak volumes: #4 in Rebounds per Game; #5 in Minutes Played, #5 in Offensive Rebounds, #3 in Defensive Rebounds and Total Rebounds, #3 in Double-doubles and the list goes on. On top of all this, he has made the Los Angeles Clippers relevant again. Although I think there are one or two others who are deserving of the title (minus Griffin), Blake Griffin is my Rookie of the Year. Hands down.

Thanks joining me again this week. Next Thursday, let's talk about picks for NBA Coach of the Year - so take the time to think about that over the weekend. I love reading your comments and suggestions - keep them coming by following me on Twitter (@ddegraauw) and on Facebook (Danielle de Graauw). Have a great weekend and see you on Tuesday for more NBA coverage in "NBAz in 7 Dayz".

Raps Close Road Trip In Familiar Way

Add another to the walked wounded list. Andrea Bargnani would take a seat for this one with bone spurs. Amir Johnson, Barbosa and Calderon would all go not at 100%. While Reggie Evans remained out with problems with his surgically repaired right foot. Raptors would come in off worst loss in my opinion ever. But they did have success playing the Clippers in L.A. They have won 4 straight heading into this one vs Staples secondary basketball tenant.

Not a surprise that the Raptors had a much better effort in this one. They would play a scrappy first half and despite having no Bargnani and Demar DeRozan struggling they still got off to a 21-18 lead after the first quarter and would hang in for at 44-43 halftime lead. They were doing a surprisingly nice job dealing with Blake Griffin. It was a sloppy and scrappy affair with both teams showing at times why they would be heading to the lottery and not the playoffs. Clippers were shooting just 40.9% at the half and Raptors hoovering around 38%. Far from an instant classic.

Raptors were getting one of the better efforts from Ed Davis from him this season. Perhaps his best performance when all was said and done. The Raptors would build up a pretty decent lead by the time the 4th quarter had rolled around. They had a 7 point lead after 3 and they built that to 10 at one point near the mid point of the 4th. But as often happens the Raptors let is slide away. Griffin after a pretty quiet night by his standards would come alive late and lead the Clippers to the 94-90 win. Davis had 21 and 11 for a double double to lead the Raptors while Griffin by the end of the night had a pretty nice evening with 22 and 16.

Demar DeRozan struggled in his return home to L.A. He would get it going a little late but in the end for the first time since January was held under double digits scoring. DeRozan at one point was 1-11 in this one and would end up 3-15 with just 7 points. He did do some other things with 6 rebounds and a couple steals but it was a bad night for the kid from Compton California. Calderon was doing a solid job as a scorer despite just 2 assists he dropped in a much needed 16 points given the circumstances. Raptors really lost this game on the glass getting out rebounded 51-40. Another failure down the stretch and another loss bringing the total to 53 losses and counting with 9 games to go. They will not beat the record for losses in a season at 66 but they are looking like they will be in neighbourhood before all is said and done.

Here is the boxscore that will show you that the Clippers outscored the Raptors 28-17 in the final quarter.

Demar Goes Home To Take On Clipps

Rain, Snow or Epic loss the DNB Previews march on. Here is my thoughts heading into tonight's contest at Staples.



It can't be any worse than last night can it? Nah Can't.

Demar DeRozan All-Star Adventure Begins

Last year the only time we saw Demar DeRozan was in the one and now done dunk in contest at halftime of the Rookie/Sophomore game. DeRozan had been snubbed from the game itself, but this year head return home to L.A and will play in the game on Friday night. This is a game that is set up for a player like DeRozan that can get to the hoop and throw it down. He also might have a small chip on his shoulder after the snub last season. Blake Griffin his main competition in the Dunk Contest the next night will be playing all 3 nights including in the All-Star Game itself. If you were going to make a list of candidates for M.V.P of this game, it likely starts with Griffin but DeRozan is on that list as well.

Now let's face it awards at All-Star Weekend are not going to change that the Raptors have 41 losses. But if DeRozan on this big stage that is All-Star Weekend could walk away with some hardware from this game tonight and/or the dunk contest tomorrow night it is a good thing. Here are a few reasons as to why:

• First and foremost it is good for his personal confidence and gets him some national exposure which is important. Just ask Chris Bosh. But for DeRozan who is trying to build himself into a franchise player this would be a big shot of confidence in the quest to get there. Also in talking with Demar he is very excited at the fact this is all taking place in his hometown where his family and friends can share in it with him.

• This may sound a bit off the wall and stupid but it can't hurt the Raptors in terms of getting free agents to come here. DeRozan can build his profile it won't hurt in giving players some reason to come to Toronto. Maybe this is wishful thinking on my part but it sure isn't a negative in terms of recruiting for free agency.

• In a season that has not offered a lot of positives for the Raptors as a team, this individual honour is a reward for a kid that has improved in major ways this season. The Raptors outlook post All-Star Weekend is bleak, but if DeRozan comes back as a winner it can add to his motivation to improve and work hard down the stretch.

• Raptor fans are desperate for something, anything to feel good about at this point. I have not been this excited for an All-Star Weekend since Vince was in the Dunk Contest. No offence to Jason Kapono winning the 3 point shoot-out or Chris Bosh appearing in several All-Star games since. Kapono's performance with the Raptors and his over priced contract did not exactly make me thrilled at his victory. While Bosh being a big man in an All-Star Game makes your chances of winning the M.V.P of the game on Sunday slim at best. Dwight Howard has never won M.V.P of the game. I think Shaq won it like once. It doesn't happen very often is the point.

There is also the fact that last year I think DeRozan was robbed in the Dunk Contest, he was the only guy to get a 50, and in a year that was forgettable for the contest as a whole he provided the lone highlight to the event. It is something to cheer for as well. DeRozan is a hard working kid and I have had the chance to talk with him several times over his year and half with the Raptors. I really like him and he is someone that is really easy to root for. So I will be watching tonight and tomorrow with more excitement than I have had for most Raptor games this season. So here is hoping that Demar can represent himself and the Raptors well over the next two days, it may help down the road in the development of DeRozan. I stand behind what I have said at the start of this season. What was that? The most important thing about this season was and is the development of Demar DeRozan. This may just be an exhibition and not mean much. It actually can mean a lot for DeRozan and that means it means a lot for the Raptors.

Raptors Crash The Blake Griffin Party

Think more people are hyped up about Blake Griffin than I am. Yes he is good I get all that I just do not see him as the second coming or anything. He will be a great player in this league and he can fly no doubt but he is still on the Clippers and they still suck.

Raptors might have been sick of hearing about Blake Griffin to a 10-4 start and the returning Amir Johnson with a big swat on Blake Griffin. But early foul trouble would send Amir to the bench and Raptors lead would shrink to just 2 points with 6:11 to play in first and the score 14-12. DeRozan not Griffin the games high scorer with 6 points early on. Clippers would come out of time out take the lead then Demar gets a questionable charge call on what was a nice drop off and easy dunk for Ed Davis. But instead a turnover. Clippers got out on the break and the fans that just came for the Blake Griffin Show got what they wanted with a massive alley opp slam and Clippers lead 18-14 Clippers. But after all the ooohhhh and awwws died down the Raptors went back to work and took control of the game again leading 24-18 with under 2 to play in Quarter. Demar DeRozan had 10 points and 0 highlights. Bledsoe not Griffin with the fancy moves on drive would tie this game up at 24 after 1.

It was a sloppy start to the 2nd Quarter and the highlight or low lite to this point was a steal and a break by Baron Davis that looked in slow motion but Baron is just that slow. Clippers got the hoop eventually and led 28-26. Amir was a warrior just fro being out there but foul trouble perhaps from being a step slow was an issue as he picked up his 3rd. All the Blake Griffin groupies that came to the game were sad to see he also picked up his 3rd foul. Ed Davis woke this game up a bit with a nice slam and he had 7 points and 6 rebounds Raptors took the lead back 40-38. By time half rolled around it was 48 a piece tied at half just as they were after 1.

Honestly the third quarter was as fun as watching paint dry. That being said the Raptors had built a 64-59 lead. But that all ended with one thunderous Demar DeRozan Jam and a star down at Clipper bench as to say I am going beat your boy next Saturday. It was kind of an uneventfully 3rd quarter other than that dunk but the highlights were Ed Davis was playing well and Raps were leading 78-71. It was a good quarter for the Raptors though it just wasn't terribly compelling. But the Raptors did but 30 on the board in the 3rd and had the crowd being Raptor fans instead of Blake Griffin sightseers which was good.

So the Raptors looked to close out the Clippers and get a win. In the past 2 games the Raptors faded badly in the 4th quarter. Raptors were surviving with a 85-79 lead with 7 minutes to play. Bayless couldn't miss a three vs Portland but he was struggling tonight. Jack Armstrong might have put it best the Raptors were winning this one ugly. But winning was the key and they still were 87-83 but they gave up a rebound on free throw miss and Griffin would make them pay making it a 2 point game. But a Bargnani minor miracle would fall off glass plus a foul and that was huge. Griffin would get called for a foul battling with Ed Davis. Barbosa would score on this ensuing possession and the Raptors had restored their 7 point advantage. Bargnani would answer a Clipper score and time was running out on the Clippers. In the end the Raptors would hang on for the 98-93 win.

Was a good team win tonight with 6 Raptors in double figures. There were not a lot of style points but given how things have gone in 2011 for the Raptors does anyone care? Ed Davis had perhaps his best game as a Raptor with 13 points and 14 rebounds. A career high in boards for the 2nd night in a row.

Clipp Show Invades Toronto

Let's face it there have been a lot of negative vibes this year in the NBA and with the Raptors. The Raptors with a loss today would have to win every single game to be .500. Not that it will happen mind you. But a positive in the NBA has been Blake Griffin and his rookie season that was delayed a year. Has there ever been a buzz for the Clippers coming to town? Not till this season, but thanks to the Blake Griffin Show there is. The Clippers come in off the embarrassment of being that team that lost to the Cavs ending their record 26 game losing streak. That alone should provide all the motivation the Clippers need for today. It also features for my money a preview of the slam dunk final with Demar DeRozan and Blake Griffin on the court today. Should be interesting if either is able to get out on the break for an uncontested dunk attempt. Eric Gordon who challenged Demar in the the Dunk-In last season is out for the Clippers with sprained right wrist and a bone chip fracture. That just sounds painful doesn't it? This could have been a rivalry game for the Raptors as this franchise was once the Buffalo Braves. Just like the Leafs and Sabres in hockey it could have been great. But the franchise had long left Buffalo in 1979 long before the Raptors came along in 1995. Maybe not since Bob Mcadoo played for this franchise in Buffalo have they had a player as good as Blake Griffin.

The Basics: Clippers 20-33 ( Lost 6 of last 7) Toronto 14-40 (Lost 15 of last 16)

When Last We Saw Them: Raptors dug a hole for themselves vs the Blazers. They dug out of that hole only to be buried by LaMarcus Aldridge down the stretch of the game. Raptors had good performances from Bargnani, DeRozan and Bayless late. But in the end the 23 points they gave up to Rudy Fernandez in the first half and the 25 they gave to Aldridge in the second half (Had A Game High 37 Overall) was to much to overcome.

Key Match-Ups: This does not take a rocket scientist now does it. Blake Griffin and how the Raptors deal with him will be the most important match-up of the day. Who draws that assignment is another question as well. Amir Johnson was finally forced to tap out after battling through a number of injuries. Not sure if Ed Davis is ready for this incredible challenge. It could be very tough for the Raptors. Jose Calderon will be matched up with Baron Davis who is hot of late averaging 20.6 point 10 assists and 4.6 rebounds in his last 5 games. While Calderon has struggled to make shots of late and in the last game only attempted 4 shots proof that his confidence may not be there. Advantages for the Raptors should come from Bargnani matched with Jordan (DeAndre not Mike) and DeRozan needs to get the better of Randy Foye.

Other Things of Note: Reggie Evans does not buy into the Blake Griffin Hype. But he did buy into to being a guest in the Dino Nation Blog, as did Demar DeRozan. There is not many all-time series that the Raptors lead but this is one of them with a 19-12 advantage overall (9-6 at home) and have won 4 straight vs the Clippers. But I am sure if you look up the Raptors numbers vs Cavs before Lebron was drafted they were nice too. Blake Griffin is a game changer in more ways than 1. This year has had a lot of lows for the Raptors, but does anyone remember this low moment from March 13th 1998, in which the Raptors lost to the Clippers 152-120. That was the largest margin of victory for the Clippers over Toronto. Clippers had 7 players in double figures lead by Lamond Murray with 25 while Reggie Slater had 20 to lead the Dinos. Case you wondered the Raptors largest win over Clipps is a 24 point spread back in 2009. No Chris Kaman and Craig Smith likely for Clippers as well today.

Where Is It On? This is the first one of those changed games (3 others to come). Originally it was going to be on Sportsnet 1 but now it is on TSN 2 (Seriously Blake Griffin Can't Get On The Main TSN or Sportsnet? Pathetic)

For Hardcore Hoops Fans: If you would like a nice lead up to the Raptors and Clippers. I will be live blogging the Magic and Lakers for The Score.com and Score Mobile.

Demar DeRozan Gets A Friday Night Invite

There is not a lot to smile about with the Raptors right now. The team is currently stranded in Indy after their lose to the Pacers. In the midst of a 12 game losing streak. But good news late this afternoon for one Raptor in Demar DeRoazan. First he got into the dunk contest through the back door as an injury replacement for his good friend Brandon Jennings. But this time, he walks in through the front door to the Rookie/Sophomore game. He will go up against a rookie squad lead by his main competition in the Dunk Contest the next night in Blake Griffin. Here is a list of all the other Rookies and Sophomores that will be heading to L.A with those 2.

Rookies

• Eric Bledsoe L.A. Clippers G 6-1 195 Kentucky
• DeMarcus Cousins Sacramento C 6-11 270 Kentucky
• Derrick Favors New Jersey F 6-10 246 Georgia Tech
• Landry Fields New York G 6-7 210 Stanford
• Wesley Johnson Minnesota G 6-7 205 Syracuse
  
• Greg Monroe Detroit C 6-11 250 Georgetown
  
• Gary Neal San Antonio G 6-4 210 Towson State
• John Wall Washington G 6-4 195 Kentucky
• Blake Griffin L.A. Clippers F 6-10 251Oklahoma

Sophomores

• DeJuan Blair San Antonio C 6-7 265 Pittsburgh
• DeMar DeRozan Toronto G 6-7 220 USC
• Stephen Curry Golden State G 6-3 185 Davidson
• Tyreke Evans Sacramento G 6-6 220 Memphis
• Taj Gibson Chicago F 6-9 225 USC
• Jrue Holiday Philadelphia G 6-4 180 UCLA
• Serge Ibaka Oklahoma City F-C 6-10 235 Brazzaville, Rep. of Congo
• Brandon Jennings Milwaukee G 6-1 169 Lottomatica Virtus Roma
• Wesley Matthews Portland G 6-5 220 Marquette

There was some talk that Ed Davis may also get a chance to represent the Raptors as well, but missing the amount of time he did likely hurt his chances. However, if he keeps on the same path he may like Demar miss out on being selected as rookie and get in the game next year as a sophomore. He has really been playing well of late and was a big spark in the last game vs the Pacers.

Really happy for Demar who has stepped up his game in his 2nd year and is very deserving of this honour. In talking with him before he had been added to the dunk contest he really wanted to be a part of All-Star Weekend given it is taking place in his home town of L.A. Well now his friends and family will need tickets for Friday and Saturday as Demar will be front and center on both nights. In a season that has not been good for the Raptors this is a nice reward for a guy that despite that has been pretty good all season and is slowly growing into a consistent scorer for this team.

So now Raptor fans have more reason to pay attention to All-Star Weekend and have someone to root for. The Rookie Challenge will air here in Canada on TSN 2 on Friday February 18th at 9pm.

So congratulation to Demar DeRozan from us here at the Dino Nation Blog.

"NBAz in 7Dayz"

Get some sun. Go for a run. Watch Charles Barkley coach another Rookie game of H.O.R.S.E. and laugh. All are things I've heard beat the proverbial February blahs. It's officially February and many in the NBA are putting on a happy face to beat their own blahs. Just look at the Cleveland Cavaliers. As of Monday, they have been on a 21 game loosing streak and nowhere near winning a title before their South Beach adversary. Speaking before the Heat faced the Cavaliers on Monday Night, LeBron James said he had no reason to enjoy Cleveland's epic struggles. He left Cleveland to further his own career he says, and the fact Cleveland is falling on hard times doesn't make the decision any better or worse. Well, for better or worse, this is the NBA and so unfolds the drama. I think a lot of times things get taken out of context and with February also being Black History month, allow me to quote from the late great Martin Luther King:

"The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of comfort and convenience, but where they stand in times of challenge and controversy".

On this note, we build today's discussion: achieving greatness after pushing past adversity. Blake Griffin? - did it. The Los Angeles Lakers? Hope to do it. Current and past NBA greats? Are famous for it. Let's begin.

Knee? What Knee?

Meet Blake Griffin. A young basketball phenom hailing from the University of Oklahoma, Griffin was selected first overall by the Clippers in the 2009 NBA Draft. Impressive? Gets better. He played for the Clippers' summer League Team and was named Summer League MVP. Taking notice if you didn't already? We all were. Then the day before the 2009-2010 season started, Griffin got a stress fracture (from landing a dunk, no less) that would put him out for weeks. When the healing wasn't going as well as expected, he had surgery on the broken kneecap and was out for the rest of the season. Not a good way for a kid with a lot of fire power to start his professional career. Still considered a rookie, he starts the 2010-2011 season on a team losing 13 of their first 14 games. Clippers looked like normal but how Blake Griffin rose to the occasion, was not. On November 10th, 2010, he single-handedly performed CPR on the Clippers by posting the most points scored by a rookie with 44 in a home loss to the Knicks.

I know this is all common knowledge but the weight of what he accomplished bears the merit of repeating. I think a lot of veterans in this league can learn from him, especially Andrew Bynum. This summer, Bynum decided to use his summer to vacation and take a step away from the game. Everyone is entitled to a little of that. But when you have a bum knee that needs surgery and you are on a team looking to defend its championship throne, do you put off the surgery so your recovery time is paid for during the regular season? Most Championship contenders would answer no but Bynum chose to miss part of this season and now still expects to be an NBA All-Star. Not cool in my books. Not cool at all. In the off season during his knee injury, Griffin spent a great deal of time working out with a San Francisco-based trainer, hungry to get back to the game he loves. Big difference. Now, as a result of this drive, he fills the Staples Center with Clippers fans just waiting to see what he does next. The Clippers' Marketing team no longer has to put Kobe or LeBron's face on advertising in an attempt to sell the team to wayward basketball fans. Now all they have to do is say Blake Griffin and people go bananas. Pure bananas. Only way to describe what he has done for his club, the league and the game. And oh yeah, his dunks.

Will L.A. make the playoffs? Do they deserve to?

This depends on which L.A. based team we are talking about. With the NBA All-Star game just around the corner, I like to look to the previous year's NBA Final. And what better time to do this then a few days after a finals rematch between the Lakers and Celtics. The Lakers got beat Sunday not as a result of complacency or lack of consistency like I have heard some people say. This time the Celtics were just he better team. Plain and simple. What usually happens when a team is playing disjointed and inconsistent going into the month of February? You got it - a trade. But Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak swears up and down they have not even looked into it. Really? The Lakers have dropped two straight as of Tuesday morning: one to the Sacramento Kings (of all teams? It should've been a cake walk) and the other to the Celtics. Well Mr. Kupchak, if you decide to 'look into it', read the previous paragraph of this article mentioning one of your veterans. Rhymes with 'hide 'em'.

We all need a 'pick me up'

Not just because it's February and the 'blah' factor associated with it, but we all need a little pick me up - Raptor fan or not. So I dug deep in to my archives to find my top ten favourite basketball quotations of all time. What could be more inspiring than the game of basketball, right? Here we go (in no particular order):

John Wooden - "What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player".

Robert Horry - "Pressure can burst a pipe or pressure can make a diamond".

Michael Jordan - "I have never been afraid to fail".

Tim Duncan - "Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best".

Phil Jackson - "Good teams become great ones when the members trust each other enough to surrender the Me for the We".

Larry Bird - "A winner is someone who recognizes his God-given talents, works his tail off to develop them into skills, and uses these skills to accomplish his goals".

Magic Johnson - "Ask not what your teammates can do for you. Ask what you can do for your teammates".

Jim Valvano - "How do you go from where you are to where you want to be? I think you have to have an enthusiasm for life. You have to have a dream, a goal and you have to be willing to work for it."

Mike Krzyzewski - "If what you have done yesterday still looks big to you, you haven't done much today".

Elmer G. Letterman - "Personality can open doors, but only character can keep them open".

The last one wasn't necessarily basketball related - I just love that one.

Thank-you so much for joining me this week. As always keep your comments and suggestions coming by following me on Twitter (@ddegraauw) or on Facebook (Danielle de Graauw). See you on Thursday for more Raptor oponent analysis in "Behind Enemy Lines" right here on the DNB.

Demar Will Dunk In L.A For All-Star Weekend

A number of media sources are confirming that Demar DeRozan will replace Brandon Jennings in the dunk contest. We recently chatted with Demar in the DNB and he talked about the dunk contest and the fact he was not going to be a part of it. In that interview with us Demar was just hoping for anyway to be a part of All-Star Weekend which will be in his hometown of L.A. Well now he will be in it as part of the Dunk Contest and should get the call to be part of the Sophomore team in the Rookie Challenge on All-Star Friday night. DeRozan was robbed of the dunk title last year losing to Nate Robinson. DeRozan recorded the only perfect score in what was a lack luster competition.

Blake Griffin was the favourite of the assembled field and Nate Robinson claimed it was set up for Blake Griffin to win. Jennings is being replaced by DeRozan due to a injury that will not allow him to compete. The other 2 guys in the contest are the Wizards Javale Mcgee and Serge Ibaka from the Thunder. Demar's inclusion has been posted on NBA.com so looks like Demar is heading home to take on Blake Griffin in his home arena.

Clearly Griffin is still going to be the favourite to win the contest but Demar DeRozan is perhaps the ultimate wild card to throw into the mix and this at least on paper has the makings of a showdown for the ages. This has to be nice news for DeRozan and Raptor fans and slightly takes away the sting of a Raptor 5 game losing streak.

So DeRozan is clear for take off in L.A!!!

"NBAz in 7 Dayz"

Trade Steve Nash. Would you do it? Phoenix Suns President Lon Babby was asked this same question on his weekly appearance on KTAR radio in Phoenix. He says trading Steve Nash, their best player, is "not even in his thought process right now". Really? Knowing Nash is 37, Grant Hill is 38 and Vince Carter is 34 and the rest of his roster is in their mid-late 20s and no one else the club is building around, does Lon Babby really think we believe that? Please. Over nine years in a Phoenix uniform, Steve Nash has made 7 playoff appearance, was in 3 Western Conference Finals and the Phoenix Suns as a team has won 58.8% of the time with Nash in the line-up. These stats would mean a lot to a team requiring a Steve Nash - style of leadership. These stats would also mean a lot to a team looking forward to the future. Something the Phoenix Suns should seriously be thinking about. No one wants to talk about it because Steve Nash makes this team exciting and puts people in the stands. Without him, do you really think the residents of Phoenix, Arizona would line-up to buy season tickets to a club lead by Grant Hill or dare I say it, Vince Carter? Realistically, these guys are on their way out, too. Vince Carter is headed for Free Agency with his 20,000 career points and if I were Lon Babby, I would not pick up his 18.3 million dollar option. Rip off the band-aid - have the conversation Phoenix. If you are looking for ideas where to send Nash, a good Canadian boy would love to retire among family. NBA Commissioner David Stern is always looking for an opportunity to expand and promote the league. Why not give Calgary, Edmonton or even Vancouver another try Mr. Stern? I would be the first in line to buy a jersey. Let's talk about others in the NBA whose jerseys are increasing in value like Blake Griffin and his monster game Monday and honouring NBA Hall of Famers in the name of Martin Luther King, in Memphis.

Don't Fake the Funk...

Blake Griffin proved the naysayers wrong on Monday night. I have heard rumblings about Griffin being a one-dimensional player and can only dunk and jump high. Well, he mixed it up against the Indiana Pacers Monday when he had a career-high 47 points and 14 rebounds for his 27th consecutive double-double. Most can only dream of surpassing that stat through a Tim Horton's drive-through. He even went 9 for 11 from the free-throw line on Monday, one area he has worked on improving this season. This is only the third time in NBA history a player 21 years old or younger got 47 points and 14 rebounds in a single game. Hazard to guess who the other two are? Michael Jordan (Bulls, 1984-85, 49 points, 15 rebounds) and Rick Barry (Warriors, 1965-66, 57 points, 15 rebounds). So Griffin is now in an exclusive club. The league offers support to young rookies like Griffin to wade through the 'lion's den' that is the National Basketball Association. However, they still take it to heart. "People question the other skills and as a basketball player, you take that personally" (Blake Griffin commenting after Monday night's game). A little constructive criticism never hurt anyone, right? It certainly boosted Griffin's efforts.

Honouring "The Dream" - Martin Luther Jr. King Day

Say the name Martin Luther King Jr. in conversation and everyone has a story. I still get chills listening to his "I have a Dream" speech. In the United States, the third Monday in January is set aside every year to honour Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday which is actually January 15. Three sports figures received the National Civil Rights Museum Sports Legacy Award on Monday - including two NBA Hall of Famers. Willis Reed and Lenny Wilkens were honoured Monday by the Memphis Grizzlies in Memphis, the city where King was assassinated in April of 1968. The award recognizes athletes who have made significant contributions to civil and human rights, in the name of arguably, the most famous of all civil rights leaders. Along with Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Willie Mays, Reed and Wilkens were honoured with an on-court ceremony just before the Grizzlies' game against the Bulls began. Lenny Wilkens played cards at one point in his life with King and said the award was a huge honour. Willis Reed even went so far as to say Martin Luther King Jr. opened the door for more black Americans to go to college and perhaps make it to the next level as an athlete. I know some of you have only seen examples of segregation in movies and some of you might have, unfortunately, experienced it first hand. It is unbelievable what the power of free will can invoke in people and how it can affect the human condition. My heart goes out to those who have fought the fight, continue to fight and to those who experience the reason to fight for civil rights all over the world.

As always I appreciate your comments. Please keep them coming by following me on twitter @ddegraauw and on Facebook @Danielle de Graauw (purple jacket, red microphone). Thanks for joining me today. I will see you again this Thursday for more Raptors' opponent analysis in "Behind Enemy Lines".

Demar DeRozan Weighs In On Fouls, Dunks and Fans

Before the Raptors took off on their current road trip had a chance to catch up with Demar DeRozan prior to the match-up with the Pistons. DeRozan has been stepping up his game in terms of scoring in the last month or so. But imagine how much more it would be if he was getting all the calls he probably deserves. Raptor fans have been frustrated by it and so has Demar. When asked about the topic DeRozan said " Yeah it is definitely frustrating at times. You just got play through it. I can't let it get me down, can't look at it in a negative way you just gotta keep going." You often hear that the NBA is a star driven league and a foul Kobe Bryant will get is probably one that Demar might not get. There is a thought that you have to earn the respect of the refs. To earn your stripes to a degree. DeRozan seems to agree that eventually the calls will come his way and he can earn those stripes. "You could say it is, eventually I will get the respect going to the basket after awhile." But DeRozan is a tough kid that comes from a tough place in Compton,California, and in coming from that place it has developed a toughness in his game. On how growing up in L.A and that toughness it has developed here is DeRozan's take on it," Just being physical and I have always liked getting to the basket and being physical ". There is a toughness in him that for me makes him almost the Anti-Vince Carter. He has a long way to get his skills on par with Carter. However he already has showed more toughness in his brief Raptor career than Carter ever did.

Change of topics as we move the conversation to All Star Weekend which is in L.A his hometown. Something that I had forgot about but clearly Demar has it mentally noted. The fact he was left out of this year's dunk contest likely was a disappointment. But I had to ask how he felt he would stack up against the field they have assembled including Blake Griffin. DeRozan take on it "I don't know. Just knowing that I am not in it. I just don't think to much about dunks and everything. But you never know if I was in it something would probably come to mind." Demar may not get to go vs Griffin in the dunk contest but he could get to show his stuff in the Rookie vs Sophomore game on Friday night. The opportunity to play in that game excites Demar just based on the location of the game alone. Demar on the prospects of being in that game "That would definitely be fun. Especially in front of the home crowd". There have been a few All-Star Games in L.A over the years. Demar said he had never been to one but always was watching on T.V. He said on this upcoming game in February " Hopefully I will be a part of it some how". It would be a great thrill for the young man and you could hear that in his voice. Toronto would also love the chance to host one of this games at some point and hopefully Demar would be a part of that if it ever came to be. Short of participating in this game in L.A it would probably be the next best thing. The ultimate dream for both him and Raptor fans would be to see him in the game itself on Sunday.

The Young Onez recently had an event at St Louis Wings where Demar, Sonny and Amir took on fans at X-box. There was also the Raptors Red Party the night before. Demar said he had a great time at both those events and enjoyed interacting with the fans and getting to hang out with the team in that environment. His goals for the 2nd half of the season are pretty simple, just to get more wins and try and get the Raptors in the playoff hunt. Might not be realistic at this point but don't tell that to the players they still have faith and hope to get it done. Which is what you want to hear. I thanked Demar for taking time to talk with me. Demar has been here the same amount of time that I have had access to the team so both of us have grown in what we do. It might not have been the most professional thing to do on my part but I decided to do it anyway. I recently got a blackberry and it happens to be the same as his I noticed. So after thanking him for his time, I showed him my blackberry and the background picture is him dunking vs the Wizards last season. He got a smile from that. It was suppose to be the logo for the blog but that didn't fit. I have always enjoyed Demar and while still staying objective about it can't help but root for him as well. He is a nice young man that really wants to succeed and hopeful with hard work he will.

In terms of myself in my second year of covering the team. I really feel comfortable in the locker room and it is nice that some of the players are starting to get to know me as well. It is not like were going hanging out or anything it is work for them and work for me. But still it feels good to have the unique chance to get to know these guys on a small level. It definitely has an impact on your outlook. It is very easy to take shots at people you have never met. But when you do know them it makes you take that time think be for you shoot your mouth off.

"NBAz in 7 Dayz"

This is "Jiggly Bits" with a new title. You are still getting the same great NBA coverage and stories crossing my radar from around the league in the last 7 days - not to worry. I just felt we needed a jazzier title to befit our lively discussions. I am just wondering what Mr. Flynn, my high school English teacher, will say about the title. "Danielle, Z's instead of S's?" My response? Sometimes, creativity forces you to bend the rules a little. However, this does not apply to New Jersey Nets' leading scorer, Devin Harris. The Nets played the Clippers Monday night and Devin Harris decides to vent on DeAndre Jordan's interception of his pass. Jordan goes long to Blake Griffin and Harris decides to pull him down to the floor from behind with 6:42 left in the second quarter. Do you know what they called it? A Grade Two flagrant foul committed against Griffin. Perfect title since Harris' behaviour is reminiscent of the grade school playground variety. Really? You are upset someone intercepts your pass and you take it out on the rookie who received the pass from the player you are really upset at? Even with all "it was the game emotions talking" arguments aside, wouldn't you just suck it up, go to the bench if you had to, cool off and take it out on the Clippers by coming out full force in the third quarter? Grade Two or even gravely juvenile is right. Incidentally, Blake Griffin landed hard on his left shoulder, but stayed in the game and made one of his two free throws. Not bad but the key words here are "stayed in the game". Devin Harris needs to work on this through mind, body and spirit. Today, let's discuss LeBron James' Person of the Year Award nomination, Kobe Bryant speaking out on NBA salary reductions and "Cablegate".

LeBron James - TIME Magazine's Person of the Year?

Let's just say LeBron James would not have unanimous support for this title, not even from himself. Every year since 1927, TIME Magazine gives this recognition to the person or group who "has done the most to influence the events of the year". Clearly, he meets the criteria. But look who he is up against: President Barack Obama. But he won in 2008 and by defacto he is nominated because he is the President of the United States. I would go with others on the list of nominees like Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert for their Stop the Insanity Campaign or to the Chilean Miners who were trapped underground for two months and captured the attention of millions around the world. LeBron James agrees by saying it's just crazy he's even nominated in the same breath as the miners and should be nowhere near that list. Maybe. However, the qualifying criteria for this award doesn't specify what you did to influence the events of the year, it is recognizing who was the biggest story good or bad. So maybe it is a good thing if LeBron doesn't get it. This may be the reason he's distancing himself from it. Just another reason to fuel the fire.

"Owners need to look in the Mirror" - Kobe Bryant

When asked about the $750 million to $800 million dollar reduction in players salaries being looked at by owners, Kobe Bryant told CBSSports.com "I think the owners need to look in the mirror. They need to make the right judgment themselves and stop trying to force us players to be the ones to make adjustments". Kobe Bryant is the highest paid player in the league and surely does not want to see a pay cut. This is the way I see it. Look at your Hydro bill. You give a company money to provide you with a much needed service. They take your money and use it however they see fit to administer the service. If those decisions lead to shortfalls, they are not going to cut their own salaries, they will put the burden back on you in the form of a debt retirement charge of some sort. I see the same thing happening in the NBA. Sure, it's hard to relate to a $30 million a year salary but look at it from a purely employer-employee perspective. The employer makes some bad business decisions, have got themselves in a hole and now the employees are pegged to pay for it. This is the source of any lockout or strike of any kind. Let's pretend the players agree to a pay cut. Do you think for one second the owners will say one day "Ok. We are back on track. Here's your old salary back"? That would be a big no. Let's face it. This dispute over salaries will not be resolved anytime soon. There's a good chance we will have an NBA lockout next season so enjoy this one while you can.

"Great teammate, great friend" - Jose Calderon on Chris Bosh

Chris Bosh had a chance to reunite with old friends and foes Saturday night when the Heat hosted the Toronto Raptors. For once, Chris Bosh was getting the bulk of the media attention since he was playing against his old teammates. His Miami Heat beat the Raptors 109-100 and was willing to speak to the media, as he always has, to share his thoughts on the game. I think it's funny how he gets the Magic Johnson Media Award this year for being so accessible, so understanding of the nature of a journalist's job and has been described as: "never been disrespectful, never shied away from what was asked for him and has been a superstar without the superstar attitude". Yet, he is not being afforded the same respect. Take for instance the issue surrounding his cable while living in Canada. I think someone of his stature would know whether or not he gets NBA League Pass. He was regarded as anti-Canada because he claimed he did not have good cable while in this country. He actually said he did not get NBA League Pass in the building he was in and was not complaining about the cable in Canada or living in Toronto for that matter. I agree his "should I stay or should I go" tweets may have been a little suspect but there have been worse tweets than that. He stayed true to himself and made a business decision as a free agent. Plain and simple. Want to know what I respect most about him? When asked the "would you do anything different" question, he didn't bow to the pressure of winning over the haters and said yes like LeBron did. I respect Chris Bosh both as a player and as a person. I think he is entertaining to watch and will follow him no matter what team he is on. However, the image of him in a Raptors uniform is far from a distant memory.

Be sure to join me this Thursday for more pre-game Raptor opponent analysis in "Behind Enemy Lines". I want you armed with the right tools when watching Raptors' games next week to help you think outside the box. See you then.

On The Eve Of A New Season.

Yesterday was out at the Raptors Fan Jam and had a good time. Got to meet a bunch of people and some longtime readers of the DNB. I am putting together a feature for Wednesday with thoughts from all the people I talked to about the upcoming season. Tomorrow will be our annual NBA Preview with a special guest in Myck Kabongo. I interviewed Myck last week to get his thoughts on the upcoming NBA season and I will add in my thoughts to go along with that interview. Two seasons ago I nailed that NBA Finals and Champion calling for L.A to defeat the Magic. Last season I picked the Cavs to beat the Lakers (Thanks Lebron) and that didn't happen. What I did get right was the coach of the year in Scott Brooks. I always want to be right with my picks but to get everything right is almost impossible.

The dark cloud that is going to hang over this entire NBA Season is the lack of an agreement on a CBA. In recent days the actions of both the league office and the NBAPA do not give you a lot of optimism they will find a deal. The league throwing out words like contraction does not exactly help things. I did have someone ask me if the Raptors would ever get contracted. First of all, I think the whole suggestion of contraction is an idle threat. In the 4 major sports there has never been contraction of a franchise. It almost always is re-location of franchises. But even if contraction were to happen the Raptors would not be in danger for a number of reasons. First and foremost they are profitable. The idea of contraction is to get rid of teams that are dragging down the league as a whole. Teams that are not making money or barely scrapping by. That is not the Raptors and even if attendance takes a dip this season it won't be the Raptors. The second reason is David Stern. It was his idea to expand to Canada and the fact the Grizzlies failed is one of his great regrets. As long as he is running the league I can not imagine the Raptors not being safe. Also as much as we all may complain at times about MLSE, the fact that they are on more then secure financial ground is a reason the Raptors can last for the long term.

So here is a list of things that should be big stories this season.

Future of Mello and Chris Paul- Carmelo Anthony if Denver does nothing will become a free agent and be the marquee name on the Free Agent Market. Having a new G.M from our very own Raptors organization makes the chances of that happening pretty slim that Denver will stand pat. Many feel it is not if Anthony will be traded it is more a case of when. As the season start is now hours away, it would seem clear prior to the season is not going to happen. So the question will be when and until it happens you can expect rumours to fly throughout the season. If the Knicks get off to a slow start this will make the pressure on them to make a deal and get Anthony even more so. That is the team that most feel is on the top of the list of where Anthony wants to go. Also you have Chris Paul sitting in New Orleans and not exactly thrilled to be there. The Hornets can afford to be more picky though with Paul under contract for the next 2 seasons. However if he really is unhappy that is not going to do anything for team moral of a franchise that real needs to turn things around. You want to talk about a team in trouble in terms of being a viable NBA franchise the Hornets would make the top of that list.

Miami Miami Miami- If Lebron James sneezes there may well be a story about it. This season is regardless of if the actually win a title going to be ALL ABOUT THE HEAT. This is like Boston's Big 3 X100. Garnett, Allen and Pierce was a great 3 some but no one thought they could be contenders for a decade if they stuck together. These 3 guys can regardless of if you like it or not. The MWO is not going anywhere anytime soon. They are going to be talked about good, bad or indifferent for the entire season. Already some turbulence with an injury to Mike Miller that may see him out till January. Heat go out and sign Jerry Stackhouse. Basically losing on any night is not an option for this team. Obviously they are not going 82-0 but with ever loss will come a huge amount of drama. But when you throw a Championship style celebration before you win anything and say you are not just out to win this year, but for the next 5 or 6 years, that comes with the territory.

K.D for MVP- Kevin Durant has had a big summer and as fast as Lebron James star has fallen, Kevin Durant has watched his rise. His Thunder made the playoffs last season (I called that one too) and they gave the eventual Champion Lakers there toughest test on the road to the Finals. NBA Elite 11 with him on the cover may never see the light of day but nothing can stop K.D from making the Jump to NBA Ultra Elite in being considered one of the top 3 players in the game. The team around him is growing better as well and at the top of that list is his point guard Westbrook. I like K.D and his Thunder to do EVEN BIGGER THINGS this season. Part of that is K.D living up to the hype as a front runner for the MVP. Greg Who? Yeah Oden was worth that #1 pick wasn't he. While he racks up medical bills Durant is racking up Gold Medals and soon trophies.

Wall vs Griffin - Blake Griffin had he been healthy was the pre-season run away pick to be Rookie of the Year last season. John Wall is that guy this year. But wait a second, Griffin can win that award as well. In rare situation you have two number 1 picks and only one Rookie of the Year Trophy. If you are trying to look for an edge in this it likely goes to Wall. Clippers even if they do turn the corner are still in a tough Western Conference. While the Wizards play in the East where a playoff spot is a much easier goal to get. If the numbers are similar in case of a tie the team in the playoffs will take the prize. Both should be fun to watch and if Griffin has no issues health wise he will push Wall all season to be Rookie of the Year. The gap between these 2 and everyone else is large. The only guy that stands a chance to get in this conversation outside of these two is Cousins in Sacramento.

Kobe - Has there ever been an off-season he was talked about less? This is a guy that thrives on motivation. Phil Jackson is back as well and the chances he sticks around much longer are growing slimmer each year. So combining those two things, and the chance to 3-Peat all make you think sleeping on the Lakers might be a mistake. Injuries have been a big part of the story with Kobe and he still has not had surgery on that troublesome finger. His team also has issues with injuries or more to the point Andrew Bynum does. But the Lakers quietly added some nice parts to improve their depth. Steve Blake could have an impact on the Triangle offence like a Steve Kerr or John Paxson did with Bulls.

Those are 5 big stories that will dominate the season. However the future of the CBA and the Lockout that could happen next season will hang like a dark cloud over it all. It is hard to focus on this season with that hanging over it. Next year's NBA preview might be not about what happens when they play, but if and when they will play. That is something no one should want to happen. More NBA talk tomorrow with Jiggly Bits and The DNB's Season Preview.

Lucky 13 For Raps?

The Raptors are in the weird and wacky land that is L.A for Friday the 13th. Did you know that Friday the 13th is considered lucky by folks from Italy? Growing up here in Hamilton, I have had many friends who have roots back to Italy. You get a reminder of that every time there is a World Cup going on. You would swear that I had moved to Italy. If you have ever been to Hamilton at that time you know what I am talking about. So if my friends from Italy were telling me the truth that should mean it is a lucky day for Bellinelli and Bargnani tonight. Not sure the background as to why it is considered lucky if someone knows please leave a comment and explain.

The Raptors will take any kind of good fortune they can get going off to the West Coast as not been kind. Speaking of not kind Matt Devlin peels off some dreadful stats about the Clippers in his " Life On The Second Bus" Feature on Raps.com. If you are a younger reader you may not realize the Clippers use to be the Buffalo Braves back in the day as Matt mentions in that feature with Jack Armstrong. Buffalo has been a cursed town with the Bills Super Bowl losses, The Sabres loss in a Stanley Cup on a goal that should not have counted. The Music City Miracle and on and on it goes. Moving to California has not helped the Clippers escape that Buffalo bad luck. The Clippers lost the first round pick Blake Griffin on the eve of the season for 6-8 weeks. They also will be with out their young star in Eric Gordon as well tonight. While the Raptors, despite a hip issue, should have Hedo Turkoglu good to go tonight.

The Raptors really need a win here as no surprise that the Clippers are the easiest team they will face on this trip. The Suns despite losing 121-102 the Lakers the Suns have been on a major tear to start the season. The only other loss they have is to the Orlando Magic. It is important the Raptors do not let the long trip to L.A allow them an excuse to not bring it from the opening tip. When you are a team like the Raptors you can not afford to take anyone or any situation lightly. We have already seen in Memphis and San Antonio cases where the Raptors did and they have to L's to show for it. If the Raps won those 2 games the outlook from this team would be a lot different. 6-2 sounds a heck of a lot better than 4-4 does it not? If the Raptors can return home 6-6 they likely would be a happy group. In order for that to happen there is no question a win over the Clippers has to be part of that equation. After that if they can steal on from the Suns, Nuggets or Jazz you have a 2-2 trip and do not lose any momentum. If the team goes 1-3 or God forbid 0-4 that is not going to be good news. They face a tough 3 game homestand vs Miami, Orlando and an easier one vs the Pacers. Although don't tell T.J Ford and the Pacers that.

No one said that November was going to be easy and as the Raptors advance through this month you are getting to see that. How the Raptors can survive it is to play better on the defensive end. It is clear this team has more than enough offense to get the job done on most nights. They can score with just about anyone in this league. Where the difference happens is the great teams can start strong and finish stronger. I have always felt basketball is on of the hardest sports to come from behind and win. It is like you are trying to climb a mountain. Once you get to the top and get back to level or ahead by just 2. Many times the team that has lead throughout will have one final push and get the win. What happened against the Bulls went totally against that logic and is rare. Good teams be they great defensively or not understand when there are those key moments and possessions in game that they need to step it up. The Playoffs only increase in those moments and if a team can not get those stops the odds will catch up with them in the end.

Chris Bosh and his play may not land him on the Tonight Show while in L.A. Even though he did work for them in playoffs when it was Jay Leno's show. You know when they got good ratings. However his start has been one of the better ones in the NBA. It may get ignored by some because of the Raps 4-4 record but CB4 has been very good. This is also a homecoming for Demar DeRozan who is an L.A kid. He rolls back home on the momentum of his best game as a pro. It should be a big thrill for him to be playing at the Staples Center and better to do that the first time against the Clippers and NOT THE LAKERS!!!

Perhaps the worst thing about the Raptors failures on the west coast in the past is that you have to stay up so late to watch them fail. It is no fun to watch a game that starts at 10:30 and come out on the losing end of it. That does not send you to bed with happy thoughts. Here is hoping the Raps get a win and send Raps fans to bed with a positive attitude and a 5-4 record. Losing to the Clippers no matter the circumstances is always a tough pill to swallow.

Starting 5 with Justin Walsh From Slam Magazine

Today's guest has been covering basketball since the age of 17. He is now a contributing writer and on the editorial staff at Slam as well as a senior writer for Ball Is Life. I can not recall what I was doing at 17, but aside from playing high school football and partying...not much. I was not covering basketball I know that much. In his work Justin has always been doing a lot of working in scouting and evaluating talent. How I got to know him was in my work livebloging for The Score. Not knowing his background I was like who is this guy and how does he know so much? I to say the least was impressed. So much so that I found out his background and got in touch with him to come talk some ball here in the Dino Nation Blog. Given his background and the upcoming draft it seemed a logical time to have him as a guest. We talk about a number of the guys in this draft class starting at the top with Blake Griffin. Justin is not exactly on the Griffin bandwagon and He tells us why. Along with his thoughts on some of the Raptors options and give his take on why Demar Derozan may not be coming to workout with the Raps. That and a ton more of interesting stuff.



I hope you were as impressed with that interview as I was. Justin was great to talk with and I will be having him back in the future for sure. I thank him for his time and look forward to having him back in the Dino Nation Blog in the future. I do my best to find interesting and knowledgeable people to come talk with us in the Dino Nation Blog and Justin does indeed fit that bill.

Matt Devlin Talk Playoffs and Draft (Part 1 of 2)

Matt Devlin has been a busy guy since the end of the Raptors season just about a month ago. He has been working on TNT Broadcasting the Playoffs. I was able to catch up with Matt and we had a good conversation on the NBA and the Raptors. But in this first part we focus on the NBA and in Part 2 that I will be posting later we talk about the Raptors. But Matt had a chance to cover both the Magic who surprised the Cavs in game 1 along with the Nuggets who just tied up the Western Conference Finals heading back to Denver. We also chat about Shaq as a broadcaster and some thoughts on the top of the NBA Draft board with Blake Griffin and Ricky Rubio being discussed.




I will post part 2 on Monday or over the weekend in that we talk Triano, Bosh, Calderon and players that play internationally. Along with that we explore one of the most up in the air free agent periods in the history of the NBA. We even talk about Twitter and if Matt is going to jump in on the latest craze sweeping the Internet and the NBA.

Tweets and Twits

I have an Interview later today so I am just going to have some little things in like Twitter form on some things from around the league. Speaking of Twitter some Twitter NBA News. My favourite player is now on Twitter. T.J Ford is now the latest player to embrace the Twitter generation of the NBA. Another Ex-Raptor was moonlighting on the NBA TV Twitter. Charlie V who has one of the more famous Twitter moments when he started tweeting from the locker room at halftime.

Keeping with are Twitteriffic theme. The man who perhaps is the most famous tweeter, or at least one of the biggest in Shaq. The big man has been a movie star, he has been a Rapper but never a Raptor, Officer of the law and now coming soon....Sports Broadcaster. The big man has enrolled in a crash course on sports broadcasting for ex athletes and current ones that is done at Syracuse University. The Cuse has been a university that has produced a ton of broadcasting talent and there are to many to mention. So TNT or some network better find a really big chair for the big man to sit in once he decided to call it quits.

Chris Bosh of course did the broadcasting thing for NBA-TV and The Tonight Show. Could Bosh and O'Neal be battling some day off the court in a broadcasting booth? Maybe some day but Bosh still has a lot more years to go. Shaq also plans on playing ball for a few more years.

I mentioned yesterday the battle between the WWE and the Denver Nuggets. Well it is all over and you do not have to worry about any Nuggets getting hit with steel chairs prior to game 4. The WWE Monday Night Raw has been moved to the home of the Nuggets opponents in this series the Lakers. So Kobe and Melo are at the Pepsi Centre and John Cena and the rest of the WWE will be taking over Staples Centre. I would expect there will be lots of NBA references in that show. Vince McManon has never been known as a good loser about these kind of things. Maybe WWE can swing getting Blake Griffin to show up. He will be playing in that arena as well. Not as a Laker but as a Clipper. If you doubt the Clippers are going to take Griffin the ad campaign they have launched makes it seem pretty much a lock.

So that is all for now. The guest this afternoon to the best of my knowledge is not on Twitter. Maybe I can convince him to hope on board the Twitter Nation. I can not believe how big Twitter has gotten it is crazy. Is it here to stay or is it just a passing fad? Who knows time will tell. All the links in this article are to the Twitter accounts of the people mentioned. The Dino Nation Blog is on Twitter as well. Follow the DNB if you are not already.

Draft Lotto Day And Conference Finals Picks

Well the Raptors have a 1.7% chance of winning the NBA draft Lottery. The Raps the last time they were in the NBA Lottery won it and used the 1st pick to select Andrea Bargnani. To be honest I am not really busting out the lucky charms for the Raptors to win this thing. I am not convinced that Blake Griffin will be a success in the NBA. I had the same kind of feeling about Greg Oden and so far so good on that front. Griffin despite my lack of faith is the clear choice at number 1 though. Ricky Rubio is also a lock for most at number 2. This is another one that I am not sold on. He could eventually turnout but to be an impact guy right away. I have said for awhile if there is a guy this draft that I would want it is Thabeet. The big UConn star from Africa and he is a defensive force and will be in the NBA as well. He has a long way to go on the offensive end. He also could use some time in the gym to bulk up. But that is the guy of the top 3 that gets me excited.

All this being said the Raptors should be just hopeful that a team does not leap frog them and they end up falling back further in the draft. The odds of that happening is more likely than the Raptors winning. There is a 3.7% chance of the Raptors having at least one team leap frog them. So realistically the Raptors should just hope to stay locked in at #9.

The Dino Blogger rebounded nice in the second round. I picked all 4 series winners and that was much better from my round 1 performance. So I am not going to go into to much detail about it but I want to get my picks on the record so to speak.

Cavs and Magic- Eastern Conference Final

At the start of the year I actually did pick the Magic to win the East. I had them going against the L.A Lakers. So not bad that my pre-season picks have made it to the final 4. That being said I have said many times since that point that the Cavs and Lebron James have changed my mind. Magic just would need a truly magical performance to knock off the Cavs. I don't see it happening.

Cavs Win in 5

Lakers vs Nuggets- Western Conference Final

I bailed on the Magic but I am not bailing on the Lakers. Lots of people our though. But I think the Lakers will be ready for the Nuggets who have indeed been impressive. Lakers will get their act together this series and they will need to. Carmelo Anothony will need to step up for Nuggets and traditionally he has not done that very well against the Lakers. Just a few thoughts but on to the pick.

Lakers in 7

So I am keeping it short this morning because I am going to be doing a live blog right here on the Dino Nation Blog for the Draft Lottery. I had done one last year and it was a lot of fun. So join the Dino Nation Blog at 7:30 pm that is an hour before the Lotto hits the airwaves and you can watch that on The Score. So please come out and participate. We will talk Raps and NBA as we build up to the NBA Lottery.




See you tonight. Get your popcorn ready...Oh wait wrong sport....I am betting whoever the Raps select does not get a key to the city.