Vinny Del Negro Will Be Fired By the Season's End

The Bulls fell to 6-9 tonight in Milwaukee. The Bulls are currently on a 5 game losing streak to end their road trip. Although Vinny Del Negro's coaching performances have been unbelievably bad, the biggest problem lies in the actual offensive system.

The Bulls currently run the same offense which they ran in the Kirk Hinrich, Luol Deng, Ben Gordon, and Andres Nocioni era (2004-2008). At that point in time it was effective because it freed up the Bulls' many shooters and created catch and shoot opportunities for Gordon. Now that Gordon is in Detroit, John Salmons has filled in his slot in the offense.

Every single possession the Bulls run the same exact play. John Salmons runs off a double screen at the top of the key and spots up for what is supposed to be a jumper, unfortunately he turns it into an isolation. The Bulls also run a play where Salmons comes from the baseline or Derrick Rose comes from the sideline, in both cases they run their man into two picks. The average basketball fan wouldn't notice this but it's the SAME EXACT PLAY, it's just turned on its side. At this point teams know that it's coming so clearly that they just jump the play causing disarray in the Bulls offense.

For some reason Del Negro can't seem to notice this and I just don't understand why not, the majority of the plays Rose can be found in the corner without a prayer of re-entering the play. That's just unacceptable.

The system needs to be changed to fit Rose better. All season I have been screaming for Del Negro to isolate Rose more because he's flat out unstoppable in an isolation. I can confidently say that because every time they do it Rose scores at will. Tonight Rose had 8 points in the first three quarters because the Bulls ran their regular, predictable offense. But, when Rose was able to create for himself and others in the fourth, he scored 11 points and got the Bulls the lead which was their first lead since being up 2-0.

It's no secret that Rose is the Bulls franchise player, so why not give him complete control of his team?

Rose ate Brandon Jennings alive tonight in all phases of the game. Rose's ankle appears to be back to normal as his lightening quickness has returned. This situation is very simple, if Del Negro doesn't change the offensive system very soon he will out of a job. But judging by Del Negro's demeanor that won't matter. When the game is on the line he seems more concerned about whether or not to put pepperoni's on his pizza than who's going to take the last shot.

Don't get the wrong idea, aside from his horrid offense I think Del Negro is a great coach. His players like him, and he calls great plays out of timeouts as can be seen throughout the Bulls vs Celtics playoff series. This is what makes this situation so hard to understand. Del Negro is clearly a very intelligent basketball mind and has exemplified that all the way back to his playing days. My guess as to why he's not changing the offense is that in the pre-season he thought Salmons would be able to fit in Gordon's slot seamlessly. But now, after realizing that he can't, it's too late to learn a whole new system. Without a doubt trying to institute a new offense on the fly would be much more difficult. But when your team is putting up 92 points a night it's necessary. Del Negro has the offensive weapons at his disposal, if he doesn't use them effectively, someone else will.

NBA Regular Season 11-30-09

Bucks vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Bulls)
This game marks the second Rose vs Jennings battle of the season. In their first matchup Jennings played better than Rose all the way up to the fourth quarter where Rose went off for 10 points in under 6 minutes to give his Bulls the win. The Bulls will win tonight basically because they're desperate. The Bulls have been blown out in their last four games by the top teams in the Western Conference. The Bucks are a big drop off from the teams the Bulls have been playing and therefore they will get the win. Also, it's important to know that Bulls' guard Kirk Hinrich and Bucks' center Andrew Bogut are both out for tonight's game.

Mavericks vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Mavericks)
The Mavs are more talented and deeper than the Sixers. They should win this game at home.

Jazz vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Jazz)
The Jazz prey on unintelligent teams. They will run circles around the Grizzlies tonight at home.

Warriors vs Pacers (Slo's pick: Pacers)
I'm very reluctant to take the Pacers in this game but I see them causing matchup problems all over the floor for this Warriors team. First of all, the Warriors don't have the size to battle with Hibbert down low which means the Pacers will probably dominate the glass. But most importantly, the Warriors have no one to guard Danny Granger, I'll be surprised if he doesn't have a very good night offensively. To win this game the Pacers are going to have to keep it slow paced. If they try to run with the Warriors they're not only going to lose but they will also give up around 120 points. The Warriors aren't really a good team but they can definitely score.


Slo's record on the season: 159-84
Slo's record last night: 6-4

NBA Regular Season 11-29-09

Pistons vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Hawks)
Despite this being the Hawks' third game in four nights I still think they're going to win in Detroit. Looking at both rosters there's no reason to believe the Pistons will beat them. The only way the Pistons squeeze out a win here is if Ben Gordon has some ridiculous game and goes off for 50 points.

Raptors vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
Expect no defense to be played here, both teams are very high scoring and believe that defense is some sort of sacrilegious practice to be avoided at all costs. The Raptors won't outscore the Suns for 48 minutes on any night. If the Raptors win this game I will be very impressed.

Clippers vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Grizzlies)
I still don't think the Grizzlies are as bad as their record indicates. I expect them to start turning their season around at some point, hopefully today.

Heat vs Celtics (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Celtics looked like the Celtics of 07-08 in the fourth quarter of Friday night's game against the Raptors. The biggest difference for the Celtics this year has been their inability to go on game changing runs. In the past, the Celtics would be up by 4 to 7 points in about the third quarter where they would go on a 15-0 run and put the game away. If they play the way they ended Friday night's game this won't be close.

Knicks vs Magic (Slo's pick: Magic)
Against teams like the Knicks it doesn't matter that the Magic are playing on the road in the second half of back to back games. The Magic will win in a blowout in Madison Square Garden.

Spurs vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Spurs)
I'm taking the Spurs but don't be shocked to see the Sixers pull this one out. The Spurs always have trouble against up-tempo teams and the Sixers are definitely one of them. If the Sixers keep this a fast paced game they will be making life miserable for the Spurs.

Thunder vs Rockets (Slo's pick: Thunder)
As I predicted the Thunder are emerging as a contender for the final playoff spot in the West and the Rockets are flailing into mediocrity. The Thunder will win comfortably.

Nuggets vs T'Wolves (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
If the T'Wollves win this game it means that hell has indeed frozen over. I don't think they will come within 20 of the explosive Nuggets.

Kings vs Hornets (Slo's pick: Kings)
The Kings are a good young team and young teams are always dangerous at home. The Kings should be able to handle the Hornets somewhat easily.

Lakers vs Nets (Slo's pick: Lakers)
I wonder if the Nets' players will try to get Kobe's autograph after he shellacks them on his home floor.

Slo's record on the season: 153-80
Slo's record last night: 3-2

NBA Regular Season 11-28-09

Wizards vs Bobcats (Slo's pick: Wizards)
Both teams are coming off upset wins last night. The reason why I'm taking the Wizards is because they have a legitimate chance to turn their season around and being good this year, the Bobcats don't. If Arenas can start being more consistent the Wizards may put themselves in the race for the final playoff seed.

Cavaliers vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Cavs)
Last night the Cavs were embarrassed by the Bobcats and I expect them to follow up that poor performance with a statement win over a top team. If the Cavs can keep Dirk Nowitzki under 30 they will win. Also, to win this game LeBron James is going to have to really step up and have a big night.

Bucks vs Magic (Slo's pick: Magic)
I doubt this game will be close, the Bucks don't have a prayer of stopping Dwight Howard. They're going to stick Andrew Bogut on him? Good luck.

Jazz vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
The Blazers have too many weapons for the Jazz to stop. If the Blazers can get any production at all out of Greg Oden they will be the third best team in the West behind the Lakers and Nuggets.

Warriors vs Lakers (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Warriors should consider themselves fortunate if they're not looking at a 20 point deficit by halftime. The Lakers will win in a blowout.


Slo's record on the season: 150-78
Slo's record last night: 7-3

NBA Regular Season 11-27-09

Celtics vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Raptors match up well with the Celtics but I still don't think they will win tonight in Boston. Right now the Celtics have something to prove and I'm just waiting for them to blowout some team by 40 to send a message. It doesn't really matter who that team is because when the Celtics play well and execute I still don't think there's a team in the league that can come within 10.

Heat vs Wizards (Slo's pick: Heat)
The Heat will win at home tonight against the struggling Wizards. I expect Wade to follow up his sub par performance on Wednesday night with an offensive explosion.

76ers vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Hawks)
Lately I've had the tendency to over analyze games and outsmart myself. I'm going to ignore that the Hawks are playing on the road in their second game in two nights. The Hawks will win tonight in Philadelphia after their ugly second half collapse last night at home against the Magic. In the second half the Hawks were outscored 54-25.

Bobcats vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Cavaliers)
The Bobcats have been playing decently well as of late. Unfortunately for them decently well doesn't cut it against the Cavs, it also doesn't help the Bobcats that Shaq is almost definitely returning to the Cavs' lineup tonight after being out for weeks.

Pistons vs Clippers (Slo's pick: Pistons)
It's important for the Pistons to stay relevant with Richard Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince still sidelined with injuries. Slowly but surely the Pistons are sinking to the bottom of the east and in the process digging themselves a big hole to get out of.

Pacers vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Mavericks)
If the Pacers don't lose by double digits they should consider this one a moral victory.

Rockets vs Spurs (Slo's pick: Spurs)
The Rockets are starting to play sub .500 basketball which is what I had expected. They will lose tonight to their Texas neighbor Spurs.

Nuggets vs Knicks (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Nuggets will beat the Knicks tonight in every category. I would be blown away to see the Knicks win tonight.

T'Wolves vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
The T'Wolves should be very thankful for the Nets this holiday season because if it weren't for the Nets people would be calling the T'Wolves the worst team in the league. They will get embarrassed tonight on their home floor by the powerhouse Suns.

Thunder vs Bucks (Slo's pick: Thunder)
I am a firm believer that if the Thunder were in the eastern conference they would have no trouble getting at least the fourth seed. If they are as good as I think they are they will win easily tonight at home against the Bucks.

Trailblazers vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
The Blazers are too talented for the Grizzlies to contend with for 48 minutes. The Blazers will win in a blowout tonight at home in the Rose Garden.

Kings vs Nets (Slo's pick: Kings)
Well Nets this is it, your best real chance to get a win before you lose 15 more games. The Nets will once again lose tonight on the road to the Kings. Kings' rookie Tyreke Evans is probably second in the Rookie of the Year race right now and he may very well take home the hardware at the end of the season. Of course, Brandon Jennings would have to stop producing the way he is , which I think is inevitable. It's ridiculous to expect a rookie to put up these numbers for 82 games, I think the Rookie of the Year race will be much more competitive than people think.

Slo's record on the season: 143-75
Slo's record last night: 0-2

NBA Regular Season 11-26-09

Hawks vs Magic (Slo's pick: Hawks)
Although the Hawks have the better record the Magic are still the better team. The reason why I'm taking the Hawks is because the Magic are playing the second half of back to back games on the road. The Hawks should look to run on the Magic and if they can get into their transition game they will win.

Jazz vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Bulls)
The Bulls will win in Utah tonight on the back of Derrick Rose. For the Bulls the equation is simple. Derrick Rose being aggressive offensively equals a win, John Salmons taking the majority of the shots equals a loss. Rose needs to ignore the offense and just take over at certain points. It's more than obvious that he's capable of doing so but he's just too unselfish. I have a feeling that Rose will have a good night tonight. Since I've proclaimed his as being "back" he is averaging 20.6 PPG.


Slo's record on the season: 143-73
Slo's record last night: 9-3

NBA Regular Season 11-25-09

Celtics vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Sixers)
The Celtics are bound to break out of this slump eventually, why not tonight against the Sixers.

Pacers vs Clippers (Slo's pick: Pacers)
I'm taking the Pacers only because they're home. If they play well they should be able to beat the Clippers on any night.

Bobcats vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Raptors)
I love the Raptors in this game but my only concern is that they're playing on the road in the second half of back to back games. The fresh legged Bobcats could stick in this game tonight but I doubt they will pull off the upset.

Magic vs Heat (Slo's pick: Magic)
As I expected the Heat are cooling down from their smoldering hot start, their slide will continue tonight in their bout against the Magic.

Hornets vs Bucks (Slo's pick: Bucks)
It's ironic that right after losing Chris Paul the Hornets start playing this well. Darren Collison is playing fantastic as are the Hornets' roll players. Unfortunately for them this short period of success will not continue for much longer. The Bucks will go into New Orleans and better their already impressive record.

Pistons vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Cavs)
Until the Pistons get Richard Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince out of street clothes I'm not taking the Pistons against any good teams. The Cavs will win tonight, probably in a blowout.

T'Wolves vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Nuggets' bench could beat the T'Wolves all by themselves. The Nuggets will win big tonight in Minnesota.

Rockets vs Mavs (Slo's pick: Mavs)
As unexpectedly good as the Rockets have been I just can't justify taking them against teams like the Mavs. I've underestimated the Rockets all season and if history means anything then I'm wrong about them again tonight. The Mavs will win tonight in Houston.

Spurs vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Spurs)
The Warriors are coming off of an impressive win last night in Dallas, I hope they enjoyed it because tonight they're going to get massacred in San Antonio.

Suns vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Suns)
The Suns will run the Grizzlies out of their own building, unless the entire Suns franchise comes down with swine flu they will win easily tonight in Memphis.

Trailblazers vs Nets (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
Well people I have big news, if the Nets win tonight it means that the apocalypse is upon us. The Nets' real chance to win anytime soon is in their next game which is against the Kings in Sacramento. If they lose that game also, they very well may stay winless for a very long time.

Kings vs Knicks (Slo's pick: Kings)
Despite their record the Kings are playing pretty well, I have very little doubt that they will beat the Knicks tonight at home.


Slo's record on the season: 134-70
Slo's record last night: 4-2

NBA Regular Season 11-24-09

Wizards vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Sixers)
Until Gilbert Arenas proves that he can play well on a consistent basis the Wizards will not be a good team in the east. Although they are home I'm still picking against the Wizards tonight. The Sixers will win, probably easily.

Raptors vs Pacers (Slo's pick: Raptors)
Raptors. Blowout.

Mavericks vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Mavs)
The Mavs are a serious title contender this year, teams like the Warriors would need to get very lucky to stay in a game with them.

Lakers vs Knicks (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Lakers are the best team in the league right now, I will be shocked to see them come within 15 points tonight.

Nuggets vs Nets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Nets haven't won a game yet this season and that trend is not going to stop tonight. Much like the Knicks, they will get destroyed tonight on the west coast.

Jazz vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Thunder)
The Thunder will beat the Jazz tonight in Utah. The Jazz are massively overrated and they will soon be exposed as a mediocre team.



Slo's record on the season: 130-68
Slo's record last night: 3-1

NBA Regular Season 11-23-09

Grizzlies vs Kings (Slo's pick: Grizzlies)
The Grizzlies are not playing as good as they should be and I think their season is going to turn around sometime soon. The Kings are an ideal team to start that turnaround against.

Bucks vs Spurs (Slo's pick: Spurs)
It will be interesting to see how Brandon Jennings fares against the veteran all-star Tony Parker. Regardless of how well Jennings plays tonight the Bucks are still headed for a loss.

Trailblazers vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Bulls)
The Bulls are better, plain and simple. With Derrick Rose seemingly back in form the Bulls are a much different team. If the Bulls can get Greg Oden in foul trouble then they will give themselves a good shot tonight in Portland. Also, the Blazers will be moving on without Travis Outlaw for months due to an injury. His loss will hinder their scoring production drastically. If the Bulls can keep Brandon Roy somewhat contained tonight then they will win.

Clippers vs T'Wolves (Slo's pick: Clippers)
I hate picking games between two bad teams, I'm taking the Clippers tonight for no other reason than that they're home.


Slo's record on the season: 127-67
Slo's record last night: 6-0

NBA Regular Season 11-22-09

Knicks vs Celtics (Slo's pick: Celtics)
If the Celtics don't win this game, I will question everything I know about life.

Raptors vs Magic (Slo's pick: Magic)
The Magic will win tonight in Toronto. The lightweight big men of the Raptors won't be able to slow down Dwight Howard which is why they will lose.

Bobcats vs Pacers (Slo's pick: Bobcats)
This pick is strictly a hunch, the Bobcats have been playing poorly and I think they're due for a win.

Lakers vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Lakers)
With Pau Gasol back the Lakers are once again one of the best two teams in the league, they will dismantle the Thunder tonight at home.

Heat vs Hornets (Slo's pick: Heat)
Since Chris Paul went down with an ankle injury the Hornets have won three straight games, all against teams that are much better than them. I don't think their run of luck will continue tonight in Miami.

Suns vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Suns)
The Suns are better than the Pistons at every position, they will win tonight at home.


Slo's record on the season: 121-67
Slo's record last night: 5-3

NBA Regular Season 11-21-09

Cavaliers vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Cavs)
The Cavs will win tonight because nobody on the Sixers can stop LeBron James.

Hornets vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Hawks)
The Hornets pulled off a miracle against the Suns on Thursday night, we won't see a repeat performance tonight. The Hawks will destroy the Hornets tonight in New Orleans.

Grizzlies vs Bucks (Slo's pick: Grizzlies)
I liked the Grizzlies roster to start the season and after playing bad for a couple of weeks I think they're ready to turn it around. On the other hand, the Bucks are playing much better then they really are. Tonight these teams will start reverting to what they actually are.

Rockets vs Kings (Slo's pick: Rockets)
The Kings gave the Mavs a game last night in Dallas. I won't be surprised to see them keep it close tonight, but I don't think they have enough to get by the Rockets in Houston.

Spurs vs Wizards (Slo's pick: Wizards)
Without Manu Ginobli and Tony Parker the Spurs are suddenly not so intimidating. If the Wizards shoot well then they will tonight in San Antonio.

Jazz vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Jazz)
The Jazz matchup very well with the Pistons, unless Ben Gordon has a huge game the Pistons will lose tonight in Utah.

Nuggets vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Nuggets beat the Bulls earlier this month on a reversed game winner, tonight there will be no final replay needed. Rose seemed to have come out of his shell against the Lakers scoring 16 points in the second half. Rose will have a decent night but unless he totally takes over the Bulls will lose their second straight in their annual circus road trip.

Trailblazers vs T'Wolves (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
There's really no choice with this pick, there is no logical reason to believe that the T'Wolves will be able to beat the Blazers on the road. I expect a huge blowout tonight in Portland's Rose Garden.


Slo's record on the season: 116-64
Slo's record last night: 6-5

NBA Regular Season 11-20-09

Celtics vs Magic (Slo's pick: Celtics)
This is a statement game for the Celtics so expect them to come out with a lot of energy. The Celtics will win tonight at home against the Magic.

Pacers vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Cavs)
The Cavs will destroy the Pacers tonight in Indiana. I'll be surprised if this one is even close.

76ers vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: 76ers)
The Sixers are a better team and will win tonight against the struggling Grizzlies.

Raptors vs Heat (Slo's pick: Heat)
Although the Raptors are a tough team at home I still see the Heat taking this game tonight. Also, because of the Raptors' lack of a defensive stopper, Dwyane Wade will have a big scoring night.

Hawks vs Rockets (Slo's pick: Hawks)
The Hawks have the best record in the league and that's no fluke. They will win again tonight at home against the Rockets.

Thunder vs Wizards (Slo's pick: Thunder)
The Thunder will win tonight, they create big matchup problems all over the floor for this Wizards team.

Mavericks vs Kings (Slo's pick: Mavs)

Bucks vs Bobcats (Slo's pick: Bucks)

Warriors vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)

Clippers vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)


Slo's record on the season: 110-59
Slo's record last night: 0-3

NBA Regular Season 11-19-09

Hornets vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
The Suns will destroy the Hornets without Chris Paul as will most teams, this one won't be pretty.

Spurs vs Jazz (Slo's pick: Spurs)
At home, this Spurs team should beat the Jazz convincingly. I have my doubts that the Jazz will even contend this year. Also, the Jazz must have a personal vendetta against me, whenever I pick them to win they lose, and whenever I pick them to lose they win.

Lakers vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Bulls)
Tonight marks the return of Pau Gasol which in years past would have meant disaster for the Bulls. But for the first time in recent memory the Bulls have a formidable big man in the paint, Joakim Noah who happens to lead the league in rebounding. This is a bold pick because most would view this pick and assume that I'm completely out of my mind. Kobe Bryant has been held under his scoring average in four out of his last six games against the Bulls. Rose, who has struggled more than many would have ever anticipated, vows to break out of this slump very soon. He said that he knows that he's not playing like himself and that he refuses to cut his hair until the problem is fixed. Rose's aggressiveness has been a big problem this year but I've seen it getting better. His last game against the Kings was his best played game of the season, coincidentally, it was also his worst shooting game of the season. The big difference in that game was his aggressiveness and defense, he got to the line 6 times (season high) and he didn't settle for jump shots the way he has been. If Rose plays well tonight the Bulls will win because tonight he is matched up with the much slower Derek Fisher. No. the Bulls are not as good as the Lakers by a long shot, but they match up with the Lakers better than maybe any other team. The Bulls are going to shock the world tonight with a win in the Staples Center.

Slo's record on the season: 110-56
Slo's record last night: 10-3

NBA Regular Season 11-18-09

Celtics vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Celtics haven't played since saturday night which is why they will run all over the Warriors tonight. The Celtics will win in a blowout.

Hawks vs Heat (Slo's pick: Hawks)
The Hawks are one of the best teams in the league and that is becoming more and more obvious with every win. They are as talented as anyone (other than the Celtics) and with the right coaching they could break into the top three of the eastern conference taking either the Cavs' or Magic's place.

Pacers vs Knicks (Slo's pick: Pacers)
The Knicks are the second worst team in the league, they will lose again tonight in Indiana. If they think a 1-9 start is going to lure in LeBron James then they must be on some sort of hallucinogenic.

Magic vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Magic)
The Magic finally got Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis back into the rotation. But now a new problem has arose, PG Jameer Nelson is reported to be out for 4-5 weeks. Veteran Jason Williams will take his place tonight at the starting PG slot and I have no doubt that Williams will fill in Nelson's role sufficiently.

76ers vs Bobcats (Slo's pick: 76ers)
The Sixers are better than the Bobcats and for that reason will win tonight at home. Not all games require a long explanation.

Wizards vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Cavs)
The Cavs are playing well after their shaky 0-3 start. They will steamroll over the Wizards tonight in Washington.

Bucks vs Nets (Slo's pick: Bucks)
Brandon Jennings will have his way with the Nets tonight at home. The Bucks will win easily tonight against a team that is struggling to even contend in games, let alone win them.

T'Wolves vs Rockets (Slo's pick: Rockets)
The Rockets are playing much better than I had expected, they will win tonight in Minnesota.

Grizzlies vs Clippers (Slo's pick: Grizzlies)
The Grizzlies have been a big disappointment so far this season. If they want to turn it around these are the game they will have to win. I think the Grizzlies will beat the Clippers by about 7 tonight at home.

Jazz vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Raptors)
The Raptors really impressed me last week when they came back to beat the Bulls in the fourth quarter, I think they're going to get the win tonight in Utah.

Mavericks vs Spurs (Slo's pick: Mavs)
The Mavs should run all over the Spurs. As good as the Spurs are, they are terrible against uptempo teams. If the Mavs dictate the pace tonight then they will win.

Trailblazers vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Blazers)
The shorthanded Pistons are playing back to back nights against two superior teams. They will lose again tonight, this time against the Trailblazers in Portland.

Slo's record on the season: 100-56
Slo's record last night: 5-3

NBA Regular Season 11-17-09

Cavaliers vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Cavaliers)
The Cavs will win tonight with ease. The Warriors are playing well but not well enough to beat the Cavs in Cleveland.

Heat vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Thunder)
I want to take the Thunder in this game but the Heat are just so much better. The Thunder have been playing very well to start the season and are coming off a victory in San Antonio against the heavily favored Spurs. I'm picking the Heat but don't be surprised to see the Thunder win tonight in Miami.

Nets vs Pacers (Slo's pick: Nets)
Well Nets fans you're in luck, the Nets will get their first win of the season tonight against the Pacers. Fortunately for the Nets, the law of averages states that they have to win eventually. I think their first long losing streak of the season will end tonight.

Hornets vs Clippers (Slo's pick: Clippers)
Without Chris Paul the Hornets are one of the worst teams in the league, don't expect them to win much until his return. After originally being reported as out for 2 weeks, Paul has been downgraded to being out indefinitely.

Rockets vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
The Suns will win tonight in Houston. Aaron Brooks has been carrying the Rockets thus far but he will not outplay Suns' PG Steve Nash on any night.

Nuggets vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Raptors defense is pitiful and the Nuggets offense is as explosive as Bob Knight's temper. Since the Raptors can't stop the Nuggets there is no question about this game, the Nuggets will win at home.

Kings vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Bulls)
This game marks the beginning of the Bulls' 6 game west coast trip. The Bulls will get the win tonight in Sacramento based on nothing more than raw talent. The Bulls are a much better team and it is apparent that Rose is getting his ankle closer to 100% as he has been playing more minutes in the past three games.

Lakers vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Lakers will win because the Pistons are still missing both Tayshaun Prince and Richard Hamilton. The Pistons have nobody to stop Kobe, while the Lakers do have someone to stop Ben Gordon. Ron Artest is widely known to be one of the best defenders in the league.

Slo's record on the season: 95-53
Slo's record last night: 3-0

NBA Regular Season 11-16-09

Hawks vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick: Hawks)
This game is very difficult to pick, I like both of these teams and feel that they are both heading in the right direction. I'm only taking the Hawks because they are very tough to beat in Atlanta.

Magic vs Bobcats (Slo's pick: Magic)
There's really no other choice with this game, there is no reason to believe that the Bobcats will be able to go toe to toe with the Magic anywhere, especially not in Orlando.

Buck vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Mavericks)
Brandon Jennings will go head to head with Jason Kidd for the first time in his young career. Jennings has been more impressive than I could have ever imagined and I'm very excited to see how he will follow up his 55 point performance on saturday against the Warriors. In this game, even if Jennings does go off for 50 (which he won't) the Mavs will still win dominantly.


Slo's record on the season: 92-53
Slo's record last night: 2-2

NBA Regular Season 11-15-09

Pistons vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Mavs)
Dirk Nowitzki presents a big matchup problem as he usually does. I don't believe in the Pistons defense enough to take them against such a potent offense.

Thunder vs Clippers (Slo's pick: Thunder)
The Thunder are better at every position excluding center. The Thunder will win tonight at home against the Clippers who are still without number one pick Blake Griffin.

Suns vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Suns)
Neither of these teams exhibit good defense and therefore this game will be a shootout in the 115 point range. In the end, the Suns will fast break their way to their ninth win of the season tonight at home.

Lakers vs Rockets (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Lakers will win this game on the back of Kobe Bryant. I have a feeling that he's going to have a great game tonight at home.


Slo's record on the season: 90-51
Slo's record last night: 7-3

NBA Regular Season 11-14-09

Bulls vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Bulls)
The Bulls have had two days off since there epic meltdown in Toronto on Wednesday night and will win their final home game until December 2nd tonight against the Sixers.

Pacers vs Celtics (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Celtics SHOULD win in a blowout and I think they probably will. I would go as far as to say that the Celtics could beat the Pacers without the Big 3 and Rondo.

Hawks vs Hornets (Slo's pick: Hawks)
Without Chris Paul the Hornets may be the worst team in the league, I'll be very surprised to see them even contend tonight.

Wizards vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Wizards)
The Wizards have been struggling as of late, I expect them to turn it around sometime soon. I think they're going to take a step in the right direction tonight at home against the Pistons.

Bobcats vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
This is a trap game for the Blazers who have been up and down to start the season. The Bobcats are one of those teams who will beat you if you don't come to play. The Blazers will win tonight in Charlotte.

Cavaliers vs Jazz (Slo's pick: Cavaliers)
After their slow start the Cavaliers are getting hot and will continue their winning streak tonight against the Jazz.

Heat vs Nets (Slo's pick: Heat)
The Heat will win in a blowout tonight in Miami, I don't think it will be remotely close.

Grizzlies vs T'Wolves (Slo's pick: Grizzlies)
I am taking the Grizzlies because they're at home and because they have much more of an explosive offense than the T'Wolves. I think the Grizzlies will win in a somewhat close game.

Bucks vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Bucks)
Brandon Jennings has been very impressive to start his rookie season and I'm starting to take the Bucks strictly based on his success. I think the Bucks will win tonight at home against the Warriors who are playing the second half of back to back road games.

Spurs vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Spurs)
As much as the Thunder have impressed me this year, I'm still not willing to take them in road games against premier teams in either conference. The Spurs will win tonight at home as long as they keep Kevin Durant moderately contained. With players like Durant the goal isn't to shut them down, it's to stop them from scoring 35+.

Slo's record on the season: 83-48
Slo's record last night: 6-3

Well It's official, The Celtics Are Already Bored With The Regular Season

Regardless of their record, ever since thrashing the Bulls 118-90 back in October, the Celtics have been playing poorly to say the least. Most nights they are so much better than the other team that it won't matter, but against teams like the Hawks and the Suns you have to show up like it's a playoff game.

Some people may think that the Celtics are playing bad because Rasheed Wallace doesn't fit, or because the big 3 is getting too old, or even because they're not as good as advertised. The real reason is that they're horribly bored and can't wait to get these next 73 games out of the way to get to the playoffs. Read their body language, some nights the entire team doesn't look in the least bit interested.

Kevin Garnett, the most intense basketball player I've ever seen isn't bringing anywhere near the hunger to win which he has brought in years past. He looks as if he's going through the motions and the rest of the team is following suit. When Garnett originally went to Boston he changed the entire culture of the Celtics with his intensity and defensive prowess. Look at Kendrick Perkins before and after the arrival of KG. Garnett has turned Perkins into an intense, and slightly meniacal defender just like him. But as Garnett has stopped bringing that desire every night and as a result so has the rest of the team.

This is going to be a recurring theme all year as the Celtics will continue to play like this until they find the motivation to play better. The Celtics think they can turn it on whenever they want but it's not like you can just flip a switch and all of a sudden play well. That is the only concerning aspect of this, that the Celtics will play like this for too long and put themselves in a bad position once the playoffs roll around. Still, I strongly feel that the Celtics are going to win the title this year, barring injuries. This team is built for the playoffs and more specifically a championship.

There's good news for the Celtics in all of this, April 14th is right around the corner.

LeBron James to Honor Jordan by Giving Up #23, as Well as a Quick Look at Next Summer's Possibilities

Immediately following Thursday's win in Miami, LeBron James made the announcement that he was changing his number from 23 to 6 in honor of Michael Jordan.

“Jordan can’t get the logo, and if he can’t, something has to be done. I feel like no NBA player should wear 23. I’m starting a petition, and I’ve got to get everyone in the NBA to sign it. Now, if I’m not going to wear number 23, then nobody else should be able to wear it.”

Why though? Why change it this late in his career?

It's because James has realized that no matter what he does, 23 will always be Jordan's number. This is an attempt to try to break out of the Jordan shadow and make his own legacy with no ties to anyone else's. If LeBron wants to give up 23 then that's fine but to say that there should be a league wide ban on it is taking it too far. As far as I know the only number in sports which is completely off limits is number 42 in Major League Baseball. When someone breaks down racial barriers, universally retiring their number is justified, but just being the greatest player isn't enough.

In a way, I think LeBron is just creating a diversion from all of the free agent talk that he has been going through in the early weeks of the season. It makes sense, having to hear your best player rumored to every organization under the sun can't be good for team chemistry.

What LeBron doesn't realize is that by saying he's changing from 23 the, "LeBron to Chicago", whispers are going amplify themselves. People are going use their faulted logic and think that he's only changing from 23 because he knows he can't have it in Chicago. This will cause a bigger distraction because Chicago is actually a very possible destination for James (rather than the Knicks, Nets, or Heat). The Bulls have a lot of money to spend, a big market, and with James a team that will seriously contend for a title.

All of these rumors about James to Miami or New York are pipe dreams. If LeBron goes to the Knicks then it should be very obvious to everyone that he wants nothing but money and winning is not a top priority for him which I highly doubt.

As for the Heat, in theory putting James and Wade together sounds like a good idea but on the floor it will be a different story. Both of their styles demand having the ball for the majority of the game and as far as I know only one person can have the ball at a time. A combination of Wade and James would be the biggest disappointment since Steve Francis.

As this season drags on, James' free agent rumors are going to start taking a toll on the Cavs. Don't be surprised to see a schism in the Cavaliers' locker room. If I were LeBron, I would be as silent as humanly possible with the media in the coming weeks.

NBA Regular Season 11-13-09

Celtics vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Celtics are better and therefore they'll win. The Hawks are going to try to run on them but that plays right into the Celtics' strength which is transition offense. The Celtics will win in a blowout.

Magic vs Nets (Slo's pick: Magic)
If neither Dwight Howard nor Vince Carter plays tonight then the Nets will probably come within 10. The Magic will win big at home against the 0-8 Nets.

76ers vs Jazz (Slo's pick: 76ers)
This pick is solely based on a hunch, I think Andre Iguodala is going to have a big game tonight at home. The Jazz are a better team on paper but in a game things are different. I like the Sixers tonight at home.

Knicks vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Warriors)
The Knicks don't have the defense to contain the Warriors' scorers. Don't be surprised to see the Warriors scoring in the 120 point range.

Hornets vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
The entire Hornets franchise is in complete disarray and they will continue to struggle until they can play well on a consistent basis. The Blazers will win tonight in New Orleans.

T'Wolves vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Mavs)
I will be stunned if the T'Wolves come within 20 points of the Mavericks.

Kings vs Rockets (Slo's pick: Rockets)
Somehow the Rockets keep beating good teams so there's no reason to believe that they won't beat the Kings tonight in Sacramento. Rookie Tyreke Evans has been playing well for the Kings, I am interested to see how Evans fares against Trevor Ariza who will most likely be his defensive assignment.

Nuggets vs Lakers (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
Not only are the Lakers playing back to back nights but the second game in their back to back is a road game. Generally I don't like to pick teams who are on the road for the second game in two nights. The Nuggets have been playing as well as anyone this year and are looking to beat the team which sent them home in last year's playoffs.

Clippers vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Raptors)
The Raptors are much more talented than LA's second favorite team and will clearly exemplify that tonight in the Staples Center.

Slo's record on the season: 77-45
Slo's record last night: 0-2

Byron Scott Fired as Hornets' Head Coach

When the New Orleans Hornets were knocked out in the first round of last year's playoffs it appeared that Byron Scott's head coaching job was in jeopardy. This season's ugly 3-6 start was the last straw.

In this case Scott is nothing but a scapegoat for the Hornets' front office. The question that needs to be asked in this situation is, how is it the coaches fault that his team's roster is far inferior to the opponent's on most nights?

With the exception of Chris Paul, the entire roster needs to be re-evaluated and several moves need to be made. First and foremost getting a legitimate scorer should be on the top of their priority list. When Joe Johnson becomes a free agent this summer the Hornets should aggressively go after him. Their secondary goal should be getting Paul a big man to go to when the shooters are cold. They thought they did this when they traded Tyson Chandler for Emeka Okafor but they were sadly mistaken.

David West is supposed to be one of the Hornets' big scorers but he has been less productive than any of the "experts" could have imagined. I don't know why his struggles are such a shocker, you take a great point guard away from him and your looking at a young Joe Smith. West is a solid player but to expect him to play like an All Star night in and night out is unrealistic.

Hornets' GM Jeff Bower will take on the coaching duties from here and that too is a big mistake. It's never a good idea to have the coach as the GM because it's never a good idea to give anyone that much power within an organization.

NBA Regular Season 11-12-09

Heat vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Heat)
The Cavs are playing back to back nights and that will spell their demise. Miami is too good of a team to not be at your best against. This is LeBron James' first trip to Miami this season, the Heat are rumored to be one of James' desired destinations in next summer's free agent frenzy. Don't think for a second that James' won't be looking to see how the Heat's roster matches up to his.

Lakers vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
Without center Pau Gasol the Lakers are a shell of their championship-selves. Right now the Suns are a juggernaut firing on all cylinders and i have serious doubt that the Lakers will be able to stop them tonight. The one thing that the Lakers have going for them is that the Suns are playing on back to back nights but considering how few minutes the Suns' starters played last night that's not likely to be a big issue.

Slo's record on the season: 77-43
Slo's record last night: 9-4

NBA Regular Season 11-11-09

Raptors vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Bulls)
A heartbreaking loss on an overturned call last night could have one of two effects on the Bulls. It will either make them hungrier and further prove to them that they can contend with and beat the best teams in the league. Or it will be an energy drain and will hinder their performance for the next few games. I think it will be the first one. The Bulls have beaten the Spurs, Cavs, and almost the Nuggets. It's no accident that the Bulls are playing well against good teams, as Rose keeps getting healthier they're only going to get better. I think the Bulls are going to go into Toronto tonight and get the win.

Celtics vs Jazz (Slo's pick: Celtics)
Both of these teams have been underachieving as of late. Despite their record the Celtics aren't playing like a championship contender. Tonight they're going to destroy the Jazz in the friendly confines of the TD Banknorth Garden.

Pacers vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Pacers)
Games between two bad teams are always hard to predict. Tonight I'm taking the Pacers for no other reason than that they're at home.

Pistons vs Bobcats (Slo's pick: Bobcats)
Without Richard Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince I have a hard time seeing the Pistons beating many respectable teams. The fact that the Pistons are at home makes me hesitant to take the visiting Bobcats. Unless Ben Gordon has a big game then I think the Bobcats have the edge.

Nets vs 76ers (Slo's pick: 76ers)
Without Devin Harris the Nets don't stand a chance against a team which is offensively explosive. The Sixers are going to win convincingly tonight.

Knicks vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Hawks)
The Knicks can't contain the Hawks to save their lives. The Hawks are the obvious pick tonight in New York.

Bucks vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
A narrow escape from Chicago last night marked the season's most controversial ending. Tonight the Nuggets will have no such trouble in dispensing with the young Bucks. Historically, Chauncey Billups tears apart rookie point guards, it will be interesting to see how rookie of the year front runner Brandon Jennings fares against the crafty veteran.

T'Wolves vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
The Blazers are better than the T'Wolves by miles. In this matchup I would take the Blazers ten out of ten times.

Magic vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Cavaliers)
For the first time the Cavs are returning to the arena which welcomed them to the offseason just last May. LeBron James is going to have a huge night tonight en route to a Cavaliers victory.

Rockets vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Rockets)
The Rockets have been contending with and beating the best teams in the league in this young season, there is no logical reason to believe that they won't beat the Grizzlies tonight in Houston.

Spurs vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Mavs)
I have flip flopped on this game several times but I've finally come to the conclusion that the Mavs are going to run their way to a win. The Spurs have major difficulties beating teams that play an uptempo style, if the Mavs are able to dictate the pace of the game then they will get the win.

Clippers vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Thunder)
The Thunder are better than the Clippers from head to toe. They should walk out of the Staples Center with their fourth win of the season tonight.

Suns vs Hornets (Slo's pick: Suns)
Given the Hornets struggles so far this season I have no reluctancy in taking the Suns. The Hornets have not yet proven to me that they can beat a very good team, never mind beating them on the road.

Slo's record on the season: 68-39
Slo's record last night: 4-2

Here's Why Brad Miller's Game Winner Should Have Counted

By rule, to reverse a call via replay there needs to be indisputable evidence. The Bulls' Brad Miller hit an apparent game winner with three tenths of a second left on the clock but after long deliberation between the refs and the replay monitors the shot was called off.

No, in my opinion Brad Miller did not get the shot off, but (and this is huge) the refs originally said he did. In a situation like this, if it's too close to call on the screen then the original call stands. Without conclusive evidence I don't understand how the refs felt comfortable taking the win right out of the Bulls hands.

NBA Regular Season 11-10-09

Bulls vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Bulls)
Every time the Bulls have beaten a good team this year I've been wrong which is ironic because I analyze the Bulls' every move to a somewhat unhealthy extent. If Rose plays smart tonight then they'll win, notice I said smart, not just good. Chauncey Billups is one of the smartest players in the league and is a master at getting players in foul trouble. If Rose plays under control tonight and his team shoots well around him then the Bulls will be starting 4-0 at home for the first time since the Jordan era.

Bobcats vs Magic (Slo's pick: Magic)
Vince Carter is probably playing tonight so the Magic are the obvious choice. They aren't playing great right now but they should still be able to beat the Bobcats even if they are on the road.

Heat vs Wizards (Slo's pick: Heat)
Last Wednsday the Heat went into Washington and gutted out a victory in the closing minute. I don't think that they're going to have as hard of a time tonight at home. Washington is slipping and unless Gilbert Arenas goes off for 50 I don't see the Wizards winning tonight.

Grizzlies vs Trailblazers (Slo's pick Trailblazers)
The Blazers are better and therefore they will win. There's really no rocket science to this pick, I'm taking the better team. Pretty simple.

Mavericks vs Rockets (Slo's pick: Mavs)
I continually underestimate this Rockets team. I keep thinking they're going to get blown out but it hasn't been happening, until tonight. Tonight is the night that I think we're finally going to see that this Rockets team is not as good as they've been playing.

Kings vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Thunder)
I love the Thunder's lineup and hate the Kings' lineup. I think this one's going to be a blowout. Also, like in most cases, the Kings have nobody who can guard Durant. He's great because of his ability but what makes him so effective is his wingspan and height. Durant is a matchup nightmare for most teams. Possibly the only exception is the Bulls because Loul Deng is similar in size, the only problem is that he doesn't have the ability to stop him. Not many players do.

Slo's record on the season: 64-37
Slo's record last night: 5-0

NBA Regular Season 11-9-09

76ers vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
Unlike most teams in the NBA, the Sixers actually can run with the Suns. The only problem with the Sixers is that they don't seem capable of putting together a quality performance for 48 minutes. Also, the Sixers won't be able to contain the Suns' potent offense for very long. Tonight the Suns are going to go into Philadelphia and improve their road record to 5-1.

Knicks vs Jazz (Slo's pick: Jazz)
The Jazz have to break out of this slump sometime. I will be very surprised to see them lose tonight in New York.

Spurs vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Spurs)
The Spurs are going to stay undefeated at home tonight against the Raptors. I can't think of any legitimate reason to pick the Raptors in this game. The Spurs are better at every position including the bench.

Warriors vs T'Wolves (Slo's pick: Warriors)
Both teams won't make any noise this season, the Warriors are slightly better than the T'Wolves right now and for that reason I'm taking them tonight.

Clippers vs Hornets (Slo's pick: Hornets)
The Hornets have been unbelievably bad to start this season, if they can't win tonight then I would trade the whole team with the exception of Chris Paul. If there's such thing as a must win in November, then this is it.

Slo's record on the season: 59-37
Slo's record last night: 5-1

NBA Regular Season 11-8-09

Pistons vs 76ers (Slo's pick: Pistons)
I like the Pistons at home today based on a hunch, the Bulls and Cavs appear to be the frontrunners in the Central division. If the Pistons want to keep up then these are the games that they're going to have to win.

Wizards vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
The Wizards don't have the defense to contain the Suns for 48 minutes. Unless Steve Nash gets into severe foul trouble the Suns are fast breaking their way to another win.

Thunder vs Magic (Slo's pick: Thunder)
I'm a huge fan of the Thunder this season. Kevin Durant causes massive matchup problems for the Magic as does Jeff Green. Young teams are always dangerous at home, I see the Thunder pulling off the upset today.

Trailblazers vs T'Wolves (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
The Blazers are better than the T'Wolves on their worst night. In Portland, the Blazers are going to win big.

Kings vs Warriors (Slo's pick: Warriors)
If the Kings play the way they played in Utah last night then they'll win. I just can't see them putting together that performance on back to back nights. I like the Warriors tonight by 7-10 points. Also, it will be interesting to see how Tyreke Evans follows up on his career high 32 point game last night. Many people expect Evans to be a very good player, honestly I haven't seen enough of him to have an opinion. With his reputation and last night's game he definitely jumped onto my radar for young guys with potential. Also, playing in Sacramento is great for him because it will allow him to grow and get used to NBA life in an environment where a 30 win season would feel like a championship.

Lakers vs Hornets (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Hornets have been the biggest disappointment in the league so far this season. Nobody on their roster is going to be able to contain Kobe, I think he's going to go off for 40 points tonight. Until the Hornets prove to me that they're capable of beating a respectable team they won't be getting picked from me against anyone in the NBA's hierarchy.

Slo's record on the season: 54-36
Slo's record last night: 4-3

NBA Regular Season 11-7-09

Bulls vs Bobcats (Slo's pick: Bulls)
The Bulls are coming of a big win on Thursday night in Cleveland. I think they're going to improve to 3-0 at home tonight against the visiting Bobcats. Rose has looked better and better so expect his numbers to start rising very soon. I think the Bulls will win in either a huge blowout, or a very tight game that come down to the last possession. That seems to be a pattern with them.

Nets vs Celtics (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Celtics dropped their first game of the season last night and I have a hard time seeing that lineup lose back to back games. It helps that they're playing the worst team in the east. I don't feel the Nets could come within 20 tonight.

Hawks vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
Both of these teams are very good, I think the Nuggets are slightly better and that's why I'm taking them tonight. The Hawks are very dangerous at home so that makes me hesitant to take a road team, even a good one. But I have a feeling that Carmelo Anthony might reach 50 points tonight in Atlanta. I think the Nuggets will get their season back on track tonight.

Mavericks vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Mavs)
The Mavs are better, and at home. There is no logical reason to believe that the Raptors are going to beat them tonight.

Bucks vs Knicks (Slo's pick: Bucks)
The Bucks have been playing well in the past week and I think that trend will continue tonight in Milwaukee. I hate picking games with the Knicks because they're always one of two extremes. They either play very well and are capable of beating even the best teams, or they play horribly and lose by 30. The Bucks should win this game if Brandon Jennings plays the way he has been playing all season.

Jazz vs Kings (Slo's pick: Jazz)
The Jazz will win easily tonight in Utah. The Kings are the worst team in the league and I have absolutely zero faith that they can play with the Jazz for 48 minutes.

Clippers vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Grizzlies)
The visiting Grizzlies are very talented, much more than the Clippers. Although this game is in LA I still think the Grizzlies should walk out with a win tonight. The Grizzlies are right on the edge of being a possible contender for the eighth seed, or being a 30 win team without even smelling the scent of the playoffs.


Slo's record on the season: 50-33 (60%)
Slo's record last night: 5-8

NBA Regular Season 11-6-09

Celtics vs Suns (Slo's pick: Celtics)
The Celtics have been playing poorly to say the least in this past week. However against the undefeated Suns I think the Celtics are going to make a statement that against good teams, they're going to leave it all out on the floor. That being said, I think the Celtics are ripe for a loss. But I don't think that loss is going to come at home, it's going to come on the road and probably to a bad team. I like the Celtics tonight in the clash of the undefeateds.

Pacers vs Wizards (Slo's pick: Wizards)
The Wizards let their last game slip right through their fingers and losses like that sometimes have a hangover on a team. I still think the Wizards will win tonight in Indiana strictly because they are better at every position except SF and even that's debatable.

Magic vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Magic)
I'm taking the Magic in this game on a gut feeling. Without Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis the Magic are now down to the Pistons' level. In games this evenly matched I always tend to pick the home team.

76ers vs Nets (Slo's pick: 76ers)
The Sixers are a much better team than the lowly Nets and will win comfortably tonight at home.

Bobcats vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Hawks)
The Hawks are going to run the Bobcats out of their own building in impressive fashion. The Bobcats simply don't have the athleticism to contend with the Hawks. With the exception of Gerald Wallace, nobody on the Bobcats can keep up with a fast paced team. The Hawks will win in a blowout.

Heat vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Nuggets have been playing great all season and will continue their perfection tonight in Miami. I was going to take the Heat based on the home court advantage but for some reason the Heat are not drawing a big crowd with any consistency.

Hornets vs Raptors (Slo's pick: Hornets)
The Hornets have been a disappointment so far this season, that's bound to change eventually. And tonight I'm taking them because they're home and because I think Chris Paul is going to shred the Raptors' defense like a piece of paper.

T'Wolves vs Bucks (Slo's pick: T'Wolves)
Despite giving the Celtics their biggest scare of the season I still see the T'Wolves losing tonight at the hands of Brandon Jennings and the Bucks. I just don't see anyone on the T'Wolves' roster who has the ability to stop the impressive rookie.

Knicks vs Cavaliers (Slo's pick: Cavs)
After a tough loss to the Bulls last night, the Cavs will go into Madison Square Garden and dismantle the Knicks as if they were a middle of the pack high school team.

Rockets vs Thunder (Slo's pick: Thunder)
The Thunder are for real this year, they're going to get a win on the road tonight.

Warriors vs Clippers (Slo's pick: Warriors)
Monta Ellis will lead the Warriors to a win tonight in LA.

Lakers vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Lakers have been struggling more than I thought they would without center Pau Gasol, I still think they'll get this win tonight at home.

Trailblazers vs Spurs (Slo's pick: Trailblazers)
The Blazers will win tonight because the Spurs are playing on back to back nights and can't run with the young Blazers.

Slo's record on the season: 45-25 (64%)
Slo's record last night: 0-2

NBA Regular Season 11-5-09

Cavaliers vs Bulls (Slo's pick: Cavaliers)
I'm taking the Cavs for no other reason than that the Bulls are playing extremely bad right now. Rose, who has struggled immeasurably in the first few games, broke out in the fourth quarter of tuesday night's game against the Bucks scoring ten points in the fourth quarter. Gradually he is beginning to look more like himself since being back from his ankle injury. He should score a lot tonight because Mo Williams can't play defense to save his life. I hope the Bulls exploit that and attack him all night. Also, I can't believe the Cavs actually went into the season with that lineup. It's horrible, they have nobody who can carry the load when LeBron isn't playing at his best. If they think Williams is going to be LeBron's Scottie Pippen then they are certifiably insane. They need to go out and get someone like Joe Johnson to help carry the scoring load. If the Bulls can stop LeBron tonight then they'll win. Unfortunately that's a lot easier said than done. Last season James nearly averaged a triple double against the Bulls scoring 31.5 PPG, dishing out 7 APG, and pulling down 11.5 RPG. Because I don't think the Bulls will be able to stop LeBron, I'm taking the Cavs tonight in Cleveland.

Jazz vs Spurs (Slo's pick: Spurs)
Richard Jefferson is starting to break out of his shooting slump and that has been a huge lift for the Spurs. Not only are they more talented than the Jazz but they're chemistry is also far superior. This game might be close because generally the Jazz play very well at home but I still think the Spurs are walking away with a win tonight in Utah.

Slo's record on the season: 45-23 (66%)
Slo's record last night: 7-3

NBA Regular Season 11-4-09

T'Wolves vs Celtics (Slo's pick: Celtics)
Blowout. Won't be remotely close. The Celtics barely showed up last night against the Sixers and still won by 21.

Magic vs Suns (Slo's pick: Magic)
The Suns have played very well so far this season but I think we're in for a Dwight Howard explosion tonight. He fouled out last night and played the worst all around game I've ever seen from him. I think he's going to go off tonight at home. Also, hopefully Vince Carter plays more minutes tonight because I'm banking on him playing a good game when I take the Magic.

Wizards vs Heat (Slo's pick: Wizards)
Both of these teams are pretty evenly matched, I'm taking the Wizards because they're home and because I love the way Gilbert Arenas is playing right now. I'm taking the Wizards in a close game to hand the Heat their second consecutive loss.

Raptors vs Pistons (Slo's pick: Raptors)
When I look at the Pistons' roster I don't see anyone who can stop Bosh. Ben Wallace has been playing well this season but Bosh is too fast for Wallace to keep up with on a consistent basis. Unless Ben Gordon goes off for 35+, I see the Raptors getting the win at home.

Nets vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
The Nuggets are better up and down the roster. I see them staying perfect tonight in New Jersey. I really hope LeBron ends up going there because if he doesn't then the Nets are going to be a bottom feeder team for a long time. When they traded Vince Carter all they were doing was setting themselves up for next summer.

Pacers vs Knicks (Slo's pick: Knicks)
Both teams are atrociously bad and this game will be sloppy because of it. The only good player on the Pacers is Danny Granger and he's not enough to beat a team totally on his own. I like the Knicks tonight at home.

Rockets vs Lakers (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The Lakers are getting the win tonight in Ron Artest's first return to Houston. The Rockets have been the most surprising team to me this year because I thought they were going to be winless at this point in the year. I'm taking the Lakers because I'm not sold on the Rockets' legitimacy, It's going to take a while for me to believe in them.

Hornets vs Mavericks (Slo's pick: Mavs)
I think the Mavs are a much better team than the Hornets and that's why I'm taking them. Although I feel like I could me making a mistake because my gut is screaming to me that the Hornets are going to play well at home tonight. Still, I can't justify taking the Hornets over any good team with the way they're playing right now.

Kings vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Hawks)
I love the Hawks' roster and believe that they have the talent to make it far in the east with the right coaching. They're going to go into Sacramento and grab an easy win tonight as long as Kevin Martin doesn't drop 40 on them.

Warriors vs Grizzlies (Slo's pick: Warriors)
The Warriors are winless this season and I don't think that trend will go on for long. I'm taking them tonight partly because I think they're going to have to win sometime soon and the Grizzlies are playing terribly. Also, reports have surfaced of turmoil in the Grizzlies' locker room. Being on the road and having chemistry problems are two big obstacles for a young team and that's why I'm taking the Warriors tonight.

Slo's record on the season: 38-20 (65%)
Slo's record last night: 7-2

NBA Regular Season 11-3-09

Bulls vs Bucks (Slo's pick: Bulls)
Derrick Rose has struggled immensely this year because of an ankle injury which has kept him sidelined for 3 1/2 weeks prior to opening night. Slowly he's looking more and more like himself. I think he's going to break out in these next three games. I take the Bulls tonight to end their two game losing streak.

76ers vs Celtics (Slo's pick: Celtics)
Unless injuries are involved, I don't think I'll ever pick against the Celtics this season. They're going to win tonight in a blowout as usual.

Cavaliers vs Wizards (Slo's pick: Cavs)
The Wizards are a much improved team from last season and has entered the race for the 4-8 seeds. However they are still nowhere near the top tier teams in the east which are the Cavs, Celtics, and Magic. I think the Cavs are going to win this one tonight at home.

Pacers vs Nuggets (Slo's pick: Nuggets)
Carmelo Anthony is averaging 37 PPG this season and as I look at the Pacers' roster I don't see anyone who can slow him down. The Nuggets are better than the Pacers from head to toe and will clearly exemplify that tonight in Indiana's ugly stadium.

Pistons vs Magic (Slo's pick: Magic)
Get ready to watch Ben Gordon frolic around the three point line and jack up threes all night in the absence of Richard Hamilton. I'm taking the Magic, the only reason why they were able to win in Toronto Sunday night is because they hit 17 threes. But now Vince Carter is back in the lineup and that pushes them to a new level. I originally took the Pistons for this game but once I found out Carter was playing I had to go back and change it.

Heat vs Suns (Slo's pick: Suns)
This game is the hardest to pick tonight. The meeting of undefeated teams are never easy to predict. The reason why I'm taking the Suns is because I don't think the Heat have the defense to contain the Suns' explosive offense. I'm taking the Suns with very little confidence, especially because this game is in Miami.

Thunder vs Lakers (Slo's pick: Lakers)
The absence of Pau Gasol has somewhat exposed the Lakers so far this year. First the Clippers beat up on them in the paint and then the Mavs had their way with the Lakers' bigs en route to a blowout win on national TV. The Thunder however have been impressive this season but I'm not sold on them yet. This game is a statement game for the Thunder. Even without Gasol the Lakers are heavy favorites over the Thunder and that's why I'm taking them.

Mavericks vs Jazz (Slo's pick: Mavs)
The Jazz have been unbelievably disappointing to me with the first week of the season now behind us. I'm taking the Mavs tonight partly out of frustration that I keep taking the Jazz and they keep losing.

Trailblazers vs Hawks (Slo's pick: Blazers)
It's too bad that this game isn't nationally televised because it's going to be a very entertaining shootout. I'm taking the Blazers for no other reason than the fact that they're home.

Slo's record on the season: 31-18 (63%)
Slo's record last night: 2-3