Post by San Miguel on Jul 20, 2014 1:09:59 GMT -6
SIM 1 POWER RANKINGS
Decided to hold back the power rankings until after the first sim to get a perspective of how the season might unfold. The landscape has shifted dramatically, especially in the American Conference while Euroasia is waiting patiently for their young teams to mature.
Here is how my GM and I view the current power structure in ABCA ...
#32 Indiana Pacers (0-7)
#31 Istanbul Anadolu Efes (1-5)
#30 Moscow CSKA (2-7)
#29 San Miguel Beermen (2-5)
#28 San Francisco Warriors (2-6)
#27 Los Angeles Lakers (1-7)
#26 Brazil Franca BC (2-6)
#25 Bayi Rockets (3-4)
#24 Tehran Mahram (2-4)
#23 Berlin ALBA (3-4)
#22 Madrid REAL (3-3)
Decided to hold back the power rankings until after the first sim to get a perspective of how the season might unfold. The landscape has shifted dramatically, especially in the American Conference while Euroasia is waiting patiently for their young teams to mature.
Here is how my GM and I view the current power structure in ABCA ...
#32 Indiana Pacers (0-7)
Key Players :
Cedric Maxwell [17 PPG | 3.6 RPG]
Detlef Schrempf [11.1 PPG | 5.3 RPG]
This is about where we would've expected Pacers to be. They're an expansion team with what seems to be a bust as their first ever pick. Schrempf's signing bonus mixed with his discovery of Krespy Kreme donuts was not what the Pacers organization was hoping for. Hopefully Detlef can find a niche role on this team, while they continue to add talent in the upcoming draft.
Some guy named Cedric Maxwell is currently leading this team in points. Strongly advise holding on to all their picks.
Cedric Maxwell [17 PPG | 3.6 RPG]
Detlef Schrempf [11.1 PPG | 5.3 RPG]
This is about where we would've expected Pacers to be. They're an expansion team with what seems to be a bust as their first ever pick. Schrempf's signing bonus mixed with his discovery of Krespy Kreme donuts was not what the Pacers organization was hoping for. Hopefully Detlef can find a niche role on this team, while they continue to add talent in the upcoming draft.
Some guy named Cedric Maxwell is currently leading this team in points. Strongly advise holding on to all their picks.
#31 Istanbul Anadolu Efes (1-5)
Key Players :
Orlando Woolridge [12.5 PPG | 6.3 RPG]
Norm Nixon [10.8 PPG | 6.3 APG]
Istanbul is still a few years away from making any noise. Orlando Woolridge is a fascinating player who could potentially be a number one option some day for them, but right now Istanbul's focus should be on finding players to put around Woolridge.
Backcourt of Derek Harper and Norm Nixon is a good start, since they both have some good ball
handling since Woolridge can't handle it at all. Nixon has proven to be a good distributor of the ball and should hold down the PG spot for now.
Orlando Woolridge [12.5 PPG | 6.3 RPG]
Norm Nixon [10.8 PPG | 6.3 APG]
Istanbul is still a few years away from making any noise. Orlando Woolridge is a fascinating player who could potentially be a number one option some day for them, but right now Istanbul's focus should be on finding players to put around Woolridge.
Backcourt of Derek Harper and Norm Nixon is a good start, since they both have some good ball
handling since Woolridge can't handle it at all. Nixon has proven to be a good distributor of the ball and should hold down the PG spot for now.
#30 Moscow CSKA (2-7)
Key Players :
Mel Daniels [21.8 PPG | 8.0 RPG]
Dan Issel [9.9 PPG | 6.9 RPG]
Moscow has a core of Issel, Daniels and Pistelak. While that's pretty bad compared to some of the better teams in this league, reality is that Moscow can put together a few wins just by beating up on the bottom feeders.
Mel Daniels is averaging close to 22 and pulling down 8 rebounds per game in his first ever extended action. He's been relegated to being the 3rd big for the majority of his career, and it seems like he's taking full advantage of starting.
Adding Dan Issel next to him should only help. We want to see Moscow do well, especially amongst the extreme back lash they've received after their trades. Hoping he can learn from his mistakes.
Mel Daniels [21.8 PPG | 8.0 RPG]
Dan Issel [9.9 PPG | 6.9 RPG]
Moscow has a core of Issel, Daniels and Pistelak. While that's pretty bad compared to some of the better teams in this league, reality is that Moscow can put together a few wins just by beating up on the bottom feeders.
Mel Daniels is averaging close to 22 and pulling down 8 rebounds per game in his first ever extended action. He's been relegated to being the 3rd big for the majority of his career, and it seems like he's taking full advantage of starting.
Adding Dan Issel next to him should only help. We want to see Moscow do well, especially amongst the extreme back lash they've received after their trades. Hoping he can learn from his mistakes.
#29 San Miguel Beermen (2-5)
Key Players :
Drazen Petrovic [16.0 PPG | 4.6 RPG | 3.4 APG | 1.3 SPG]
Bill Russell [10.7 PPG | 9.4 RPG | 2.3 BPG]
In my opinion Beerman have the best player out of any expansion team. Petrovic is a future star with his size and athleticism. First of all they need an owner who isn't neglecting them and will help them reach their full potential.
A new GM might want to explore getting whatever he can in return for Bill Russell and shipping him to a contending team.
Drazen Petrovic [16.0 PPG | 4.6 RPG | 3.4 APG | 1.3 SPG]
Bill Russell [10.7 PPG | 9.4 RPG | 2.3 BPG]
In my opinion Beerman have the best player out of any expansion team. Petrovic is a future star with his size and athleticism. First of all they need an owner who isn't neglecting them and will help them reach their full potential.
A new GM might want to explore getting whatever he can in return for Bill Russell and shipping him to a contending team.
#28 San Francisco Warriors (2-6)
Key Players :
Tom Chambers [20.4 PPG | 6.1 RPG | 49% FG]
Chambers might be the leading contender for rookie of the year so far. It's really impressive if you take into the account that he's playing under thirty minutes per game right now.
The Warriors have another nice piece in Antonello Riva, who is a 255 pound athletic SF. Once Riva develops his game, he is going to be an asset to have with all these up and coming athletic small forwards who can score the ball.
Warriors also have multiple picks in the upcoming draft, which makes this an envious position for all the other expansion owners.
Tom Chambers [20.4 PPG | 6.1 RPG | 49% FG]
Chambers might be the leading contender for rookie of the year so far. It's really impressive if you take into the account that he's playing under thirty minutes per game right now.
The Warriors have another nice piece in Antonello Riva, who is a 255 pound athletic SF. Once Riva develops his game, he is going to be an asset to have with all these up and coming athletic small forwards who can score the ball.
Warriors also have multiple picks in the upcoming draft, which makes this an envious position for all the other expansion owners.
#27 Los Angeles Lakers (1-7)
Key Players :
Bernard King [25.3 PPG | 7.6 RPG | 3.5 APG]
Lakers are in a great position after years of being held hostage by Wilt, who was too good to give away but also aging rapidly. Bernard King is one of the best young players in the league and a solid building block for the Lakers, and someone who can keep the area filled up.
The best part is that the Lakers have multiple picks in the upcoming draft as well, which should help them round out this team and usher in a new era of winning basketball to Los Angeles.
Currently though, you might find better players at your local playground than what is on the Lakers roster (outside of King). That's actually a good thing, since they own their pick this year. Well done.
Bernard King [25.3 PPG | 7.6 RPG | 3.5 APG]
Lakers are in a great position after years of being held hostage by Wilt, who was too good to give away but also aging rapidly. Bernard King is one of the best young players in the league and a solid building block for the Lakers, and someone who can keep the area filled up.
The best part is that the Lakers have multiple picks in the upcoming draft as well, which should help them round out this team and usher in a new era of winning basketball to Los Angeles.
Currently though, you might find better players at your local playground than what is on the Lakers roster (outside of King). That's actually a good thing, since they own their pick this year. Well done.
#26 Brazil Franca BC (2-6)
Key Players :
Jamaal Wilkes [16.8 PPG | 5.0 RPG | 3.5 APG]
Darrell Griffith [12.1 PPG | 3.3 RPG]
Brazil is in a similar situation to LA, however without having a Bernard King type face of the franchise. It's
still not a bad position to be in however, since they have a couple other nice young pieces like Griffith and Mahorn.
It would be wise to deal Wilkes who is 25 and probably will command a lot of money going into free agency.
A little disappointed by Griffith's performance so far this season which seems to have dipped since his 18 PPG campaign last year. It's still early though, I'm sure he can recover.
Brazil will be an exciting squad in the coming years, with their collection of first round picks. It's good to see the GM being as active as he's ever been.
Jamaal Wilkes [16.8 PPG | 5.0 RPG | 3.5 APG]
Darrell Griffith [12.1 PPG | 3.3 RPG]
Brazil is in a similar situation to LA, however without having a Bernard King type face of the franchise. It's
still not a bad position to be in however, since they have a couple other nice young pieces like Griffith and Mahorn.
It would be wise to deal Wilkes who is 25 and probably will command a lot of money going into free agency.
A little disappointed by Griffith's performance so far this season which seems to have dipped since his 18 PPG campaign last year. It's still early though, I'm sure he can recover.
Brazil will be an exciting squad in the coming years, with their collection of first round picks. It's good to see the GM being as active as he's ever been.
#25 Bayi Rockets (3-4)
Key Players :
Darrell Walker [11.6 PPG 5.0 APG]
Buck Williams [4.4 PPG 3.9 RPG]
Bayi found a steal in Darrell Walker last draft, however they busted huge on their higher pick which was Buck Williams. It seems as though Buck hasn't been able to adjust to the competition in the pros and is struggling mightly. He might eventually get it together and be a contributing member of the team, however I would not count him as an essential member of the team in the future.
It's okay though, as there is plenty of time to recover for this young team since they're in their first year of excistence. If I were managing this team, I would be shopping Pettit, Mullins and Zidek extremely hard.
Darrell Walker [11.6 PPG 5.0 APG]
Buck Williams [4.4 PPG 3.9 RPG]
Bayi found a steal in Darrell Walker last draft, however they busted huge on their higher pick which was Buck Williams. It seems as though Buck hasn't been able to adjust to the competition in the pros and is struggling mightly. He might eventually get it together and be a contributing member of the team, however I would not count him as an essential member of the team in the future.
It's okay though, as there is plenty of time to recover for this young team since they're in their first year of excistence. If I were managing this team, I would be shopping Pettit, Mullins and Zidek extremely hard.
#24 Tehran Mahram (2-4)
Key Players :
Ralph Sampson [21.7 PPG 8.5 RPG 1.8 BPG]
Byron Scott [18.7 PPG 5.5 RPG 4.7 APG]
It seems as though Tehran has hit a homerun in the past draft. They found themselves three core players who will be contributing members of the team moving forward. Starting with Ralph Sampson who is already establishing himself as one of the best young big men in the league coming in with a blazing performance the first week of the season.
Byron Scott is also showing his versatility, along with Terry Cummings. I'm sure with another pick and
draft under their belt, Mahram could be on the verge of competing again maybe as soon as next year.
Great work by their GM, especially after the Oscar Schmidt move. It looks pretty genius right now, after Oscar's horrendous offseason.
Ralph Sampson [21.7 PPG 8.5 RPG 1.8 BPG]
Byron Scott [18.7 PPG 5.5 RPG 4.7 APG]
It seems as though Tehran has hit a homerun in the past draft. They found themselves three core players who will be contributing members of the team moving forward. Starting with Ralph Sampson who is already establishing himself as one of the best young big men in the league coming in with a blazing performance the first week of the season.
Byron Scott is also showing his versatility, along with Terry Cummings. I'm sure with another pick and
draft under their belt, Mahram could be on the verge of competing again maybe as soon as next year.
Great work by their GM, especially after the Oscar Schmidt move. It looks pretty genius right now, after Oscar's horrendous offseason.
#23 Berlin ALBA (3-4)
Key Players :
Clyde Drexler [20.6 PPG 5.9 APG 1.4 SPG]
Gus Williams [15.7 PPG 8.9 APG 1.9 SPG]
One of the rebuilding teams which has a couple great pieces already. If they could find some role players and a defensive anchor, the Berlin ALBA could be pretty decent again. However, we haven't heard from their GM in a while and I'm afraid this might be a neglected team.
I certainly hope not and hope the former Milan Assistant GM can find his love for the league again. The back court of Gus and Clyde is deadly, and they are also both young. I personally believe Berlin is in a pretty good situation, thanks mostly to their previous regime.
Clyde Drexler [20.6 PPG 5.9 APG 1.4 SPG]
Gus Williams [15.7 PPG 8.9 APG 1.9 SPG]
One of the rebuilding teams which has a couple great pieces already. If they could find some role players and a defensive anchor, the Berlin ALBA could be pretty decent again. However, we haven't heard from their GM in a while and I'm afraid this might be a neglected team.
I certainly hope not and hope the former Milan Assistant GM can find his love for the league again. The back court of Gus and Clyde is deadly, and they are also both young. I personally believe Berlin is in a pretty good situation, thanks mostly to their previous regime.
#22 Madrid REAL (3-3)
Key Players :
Isiah Thomas [19.0 PPG 7.0 APG 1.5 SPG]
Madrid is another young team with a solid piece to build around. It doesn't get much better than Isiah Thomas in the backcourt and he's already having a monster season putting up 19 and 7. The main issue for Madrid is finding talent to put around Isiah and I have a feeling they will be taking the best big man on the board this upcoming draft.
Madrid could be an interesting team in a season or two if they make efforts to balance out their roster and find some complimentary pieces around Isiah Thomas. I would start by finding a starting SG, as Galis is severely undersized for the 2. No need to nitpick though, as they aren't ready to compete yet.
#21 Detroit Pistons (3-6)
#20 Milano Olympia (1-6)
#19 Philadelphia 76ers (2-5)
#18 Sydney Kings (3-3)
#17 San Antonio Spurs (4-2)
#16 Buenos Aires Boca Juniors BC (3-4)
#15 Cairo Zamalek (7-1)
#14 Athens Panathinaikos (4-1)
#13 New York Knicks (4-3)
#12 Tel Aviv Maccabi (6-2)
#11 Beijing Aoshen (4-4)
#10 Mexico City Titans (6-1)
#9 Belgrade KK Partizan (4-1)
#8 Washington Bullets (4-4)
#7 Lithuania BC Zalgiris (4-4)
#6 Seattle Sonics (6-2)
#5 Chicago Bulls (8-1)
#4 Harlem Globetrotters (3-5)
#3 Boston Celtics (5-0)
#2 Toronto Raptors (6-1)
#1 London Towers (7-1)
Isiah Thomas [19.0 PPG 7.0 APG 1.5 SPG]
Madrid is another young team with a solid piece to build around. It doesn't get much better than Isiah Thomas in the backcourt and he's already having a monster season putting up 19 and 7. The main issue for Madrid is finding talent to put around Isiah and I have a feeling they will be taking the best big man on the board this upcoming draft.
Madrid could be an interesting team in a season or two if they make efforts to balance out their roster and find some complimentary pieces around Isiah Thomas. I would start by finding a starting SG, as Galis is severely undersized for the 2. No need to nitpick though, as they aren't ready to compete yet.
#21 Detroit Pistons (3-6)
Key Players :
Oscar Robertson [17.2 PPG 7.0 RPG 5.2 APG]
Mark Eaton [7.9 PPG 7.8 RPG 2.6 BPG]
Reggie Theus [11.0 PPG 6.3 APG]
What in the world is wrong with Oscar? All that money must've gotten to him. In all honesty, I'm sure he'll pick it up but I never thought it was possible for Oscar to struggle that bad.
Detroit has some good mix of young and old players and I especially love the anchor in the middle, Mark Eaton. A big man that is a capable rim protector can go a long way in solidifying a defense. I would like to see Detroit build a defense first team, and Eaton is a huge starting piece in that. Also, it might be time to start fielding Oscar Robertson offers.
Oscar Robertson [17.2 PPG 7.0 RPG 5.2 APG]
Mark Eaton [7.9 PPG 7.8 RPG 2.6 BPG]
Reggie Theus [11.0 PPG 6.3 APG]
What in the world is wrong with Oscar? All that money must've gotten to him. In all honesty, I'm sure he'll pick it up but I never thought it was possible for Oscar to struggle that bad.
Detroit has some good mix of young and old players and I especially love the anchor in the middle, Mark Eaton. A big man that is a capable rim protector can go a long way in solidifying a defense. I would like to see Detroit build a defense first team, and Eaton is a huge starting piece in that. Also, it might be time to start fielding Oscar Robertson offers.
#20 Milano Olympia (1-6)
Key Players :
Elgin Baylor [23.7 PPG 5.0 RPG 2.6 APG]
Billy Cunningham [20.4 PPG 7.0 RPG 2.9 APG]
While Baylor and Cunningham are nice players, I'm not sure having them on the same team is as effective. It's just my opinion but Cunningham might be a little too slow to play shooting guard, which might be contributing to Milan's slow start.
On paper they have some good veteran players, and I hope they can put it together and grab a
playoff spot in Euroasia.
I would also be fielding offers very proactively for Baylor and Cunningham. We've been in this spot before, and it's tough not owning your own picks. My suggestion is start liquidating your vets.
Elgin Baylor [23.7 PPG 5.0 RPG 2.6 APG]
Billy Cunningham [20.4 PPG 7.0 RPG 2.9 APG]
While Baylor and Cunningham are nice players, I'm not sure having them on the same team is as effective. It's just my opinion but Cunningham might be a little too slow to play shooting guard, which might be contributing to Milan's slow start.
On paper they have some good veteran players, and I hope they can put it together and grab a
playoff spot in Euroasia.
I would also be fielding offers very proactively for Baylor and Cunningham. We've been in this spot before, and it's tough not owning your own picks. My suggestion is start liquidating your vets.
#19 Philadelphia 76ers (2-5)
Key Players :
Dominique Wilkins [17.6 PPG 6.7 RPG]
Vinnie Johnson [17.1 PPG 5.3 APG]
6ers have some good young players in their nucleus, and on paper look pretty ready to compete. They've struggled out the gate and it's evident when you look at the efficiency of their main players. Hopefully
Philadelphia can figure out the right rotation and strategy as this team on paper seems like a fringe playoff team.
Vinnie "The Microwave" Johnson is panning out nicely for them, reminding a lot of people of JoJo on Seattle. There is always room to improve, and the 6ers would be better served to find a defensive anchor at the center position, as they already have an unconventional PF who likes to play more like a guard (Bobby Jones).
Dominique Wilkins [17.6 PPG 6.7 RPG]
Vinnie Johnson [17.1 PPG 5.3 APG]
6ers have some good young players in their nucleus, and on paper look pretty ready to compete. They've struggled out the gate and it's evident when you look at the efficiency of their main players. Hopefully
Philadelphia can figure out the right rotation and strategy as this team on paper seems like a fringe playoff team.
Vinnie "The Microwave" Johnson is panning out nicely for them, reminding a lot of people of JoJo on Seattle. There is always room to improve, and the 6ers would be better served to find a defensive anchor at the center position, as they already have an unconventional PF who likes to play more like a guard (Bobby Jones).
#18 Sydney Kings (3-3)
Key Players :
Adrian Dantley [19.5 PPG 7.3 RPG 4.7 APG]
Kevin McHale [17.8 PPG 7.8 RPG 1.8 BPG]
David Thompson [21.0 PPG 5.8 RPG 6.0 APG]
Sydney is another team going through a transition right now. They were one of the most dominant teams in ABCA history but it was time to get younger and think about the future. The Kings GM has done just that, and he has a nice collection of young talent to build around.
Adding a point guard and center are at the top of the list and I have no doubt the upper management in Sydney understands this.
Look for them to draft the best available big man in the next up coming draft, as they've seen the benefits of a good front court before. Side note, why is David Thompson averaging 5 turnovers a game?
Adrian Dantley [19.5 PPG 7.3 RPG 4.7 APG]
Kevin McHale [17.8 PPG 7.8 RPG 1.8 BPG]
David Thompson [21.0 PPG 5.8 RPG 6.0 APG]
Sydney is another team going through a transition right now. They were one of the most dominant teams in ABCA history but it was time to get younger and think about the future. The Kings GM has done just that, and he has a nice collection of young talent to build around.
Adding a point guard and center are at the top of the list and I have no doubt the upper management in Sydney understands this.
Look for them to draft the best available big man in the next up coming draft, as they've seen the benefits of a good front court before. Side note, why is David Thompson averaging 5 turnovers a game?
#17 San Antonio Spurs (4-2)
Key Players :
Len Bias [20.0 PPG 7.7 RPG]
Kresimir Cosic [19.2 PPG 6.8 RPG]
The Spurs rebuild is coming along nicely. They've found their center piece in the ultra athletic Len Bias. Bias wasn't able to maintain his 30 points per game clip from preseason however; he is still leading the team with 20.
This team has all the pieces required to be a winning franchise, just have to wait for a couple of their guys to mature and get better like Michael Ray Richardson. Kresimir Cosic continues to produce and be consistent, despite the terrible training camp a few years ago.
The patience of the Spurs GM, sticking through with this rebuild/retool should be commended. Well done.
Len Bias [20.0 PPG 7.7 RPG]
Kresimir Cosic [19.2 PPG 6.8 RPG]
The Spurs rebuild is coming along nicely. They've found their center piece in the ultra athletic Len Bias. Bias wasn't able to maintain his 30 points per game clip from preseason however; he is still leading the team with 20.
This team has all the pieces required to be a winning franchise, just have to wait for a couple of their guys to mature and get better like Michael Ray Richardson. Kresimir Cosic continues to produce and be consistent, despite the terrible training camp a few years ago.
The patience of the Spurs GM, sticking through with this rebuild/retool should be commended. Well done.
#16 Buenos Aires Boca Juniors BC (3-4)
Key Players :
Dale Ellis [18.4 PPG]
This team has a lot of well known names but none of them are producing right now. Darryl Dawkins looks like he doesn't care about basketball anymore and Nate Thurmond needs to make more of an impact if this team is going to go anywhere. They seem to have enough talent to get into the playoffs, but it might take a stretch of luck.
Losing Zednicek hurts a lot with the depth. In my opinion, they might want to consider just stripping the team down completely and rebuilding. Especially with the way Darryl Dawkins looks right now.
Dale Ellis [18.4 PPG]
This team has a lot of well known names but none of them are producing right now. Darryl Dawkins looks like he doesn't care about basketball anymore and Nate Thurmond needs to make more of an impact if this team is going to go anywhere. They seem to have enough talent to get into the playoffs, but it might take a stretch of luck.
Losing Zednicek hurts a lot with the depth. In my opinion, they might want to consider just stripping the team down completely and rebuilding. Especially with the way Darryl Dawkins looks right now.
#15 Cairo Zamalek (7-1)
Key Players :
Nate Archibald [22.9 PPG 8.0 APG 2.0 SPG]
Kiki Vandeweghe [18.4 PPG 4.3 RPG]
James Edwards [16.8 PPG 8.8 RPG]
We're one of the most surprising teams after the first week of the season, however I'd rather underrate our team than overrate them. I feel like this is a good spot for us, with so many proven contenders above us.
Very excited about this team moving forward with a lot of contributing young players and depth. The only downfall is that we don't own our pick this year but we hope that the depth and amount of youth already on the roster makes up for that.
The core pieces of this team are Archibald and Aguirre. We're going to patiently wait for Aguirre to fill out his potential and come one of the most lethal scorers in the league, until then Kiki will need to give us a
consistent 18 PPG which he has been doing.
Nate Archibald [22.9 PPG 8.0 APG 2.0 SPG]
Kiki Vandeweghe [18.4 PPG 4.3 RPG]
James Edwards [16.8 PPG 8.8 RPG]
We're one of the most surprising teams after the first week of the season, however I'd rather underrate our team than overrate them. I feel like this is a good spot for us, with so many proven contenders above us.
Very excited about this team moving forward with a lot of contributing young players and depth. The only downfall is that we don't own our pick this year but we hope that the depth and amount of youth already on the roster makes up for that.
The core pieces of this team are Archibald and Aguirre. We're going to patiently wait for Aguirre to fill out his potential and come one of the most lethal scorers in the league, until then Kiki will need to give us a
consistent 18 PPG which he has been doing.
#14 Athens Panathinaikos (4-1)
Key Players :
PeeWee Kirkland [17.2 PPG 6.6 APG]
George McGinnis [19.6 PPG 8.8 RPG]
Moses Malone [24.2 PPG 8.6 RPG]
Athens has a deadly combo of three players and has surrounded them with nice complimentary players. Gerald Henderson is one of our favorite guards in the league (ask Athens, we've tried to acquire him many times), he provides a little bit of everything and rounds the team off nicely. If PeeWee could defend even a little bit, he would be one of the top players in the league but for now he'll have to settle for being just one of the top offensive players in the league.
Moses's athleticism makes up for all his offseason carb loading, and it seems like his bad training camp from a couple years ago is behind him. I'm very impressed by the GM's patience in holding on to Moses and sticking with his plan, which is coming along nicely now that McGinnis is performing up to expectations. Memories of the Imhoff / Issel combo.
PeeWee Kirkland [17.2 PPG 6.6 APG]
George McGinnis [19.6 PPG 8.8 RPG]
Moses Malone [24.2 PPG 8.6 RPG]
Athens has a deadly combo of three players and has surrounded them with nice complimentary players. Gerald Henderson is one of our favorite guards in the league (ask Athens, we've tried to acquire him many times), he provides a little bit of everything and rounds the team off nicely. If PeeWee could defend even a little bit, he would be one of the top players in the league but for now he'll have to settle for being just one of the top offensive players in the league.
Moses's athleticism makes up for all his offseason carb loading, and it seems like his bad training camp from a couple years ago is behind him. I'm very impressed by the GM's patience in holding on to Moses and sticking with his plan, which is coming along nicely now that McGinnis is performing up to expectations. Memories of the Imhoff / Issel combo.
#13 New York Knicks (4-3)
Key Players :
Robert Parish [22.7 PPG 11.7 RPG 4.4 BPG]
Otis Birdsong [15.1 PPG 6.6 APG]
Replacing Imhoff with Parish was an amazing move, which I was a big fan of. It seems like there wasn't too much of
a drop off in production at the center spot for New York. They will miss second fiddle Dan Issel however, but I know the GM recognizes this as a transition year and will probably try his hardest to fill that void.
Birdsong is developing nicely for NY and should hold down the SG spot for them for years to come. The Knicks as usual are in great hands, and I don't think it'll be too long before we see them in the top 10 again.
Robert Parish [22.7 PPG 11.7 RPG 4.4 BPG]
Otis Birdsong [15.1 PPG 6.6 APG]
Replacing Imhoff with Parish was an amazing move, which I was a big fan of. It seems like there wasn't too much of
a drop off in production at the center spot for New York. They will miss second fiddle Dan Issel however, but I know the GM recognizes this as a transition year and will probably try his hardest to fill that void.
Birdsong is developing nicely for NY and should hold down the SG spot for them for years to come. The Knicks as usual are in great hands, and I don't think it'll be too long before we see them in the top 10 again.
#12 Tel Aviv Maccabi (6-2)
Key Players :
Larry Bird [21.4 PPG 7.6 RPG 1.5 SPG 1.3 BPG]
Jack Sikma [17.8 PPG 7.4 RPG]
Tel Aviv has a great 1-2 punch in Bird/Sikma. They've also done a great job of surrounding them with complimentary pieces. It seems like Bird is finally coming into his own, as he was a huge project when he was drafted. Maccabi is off to a fast start at 6-2 and Bird is leading the way, it must be a great relief to see this happening as I'm sure the pick must've been second guessed behind closed doors.
I'm curious as to what's wrong with Sikma, it might be the system they're running. Regardless, if I was Tel Aviv, I would hold on to both my franchise players.
Larry Bird [21.4 PPG 7.6 RPG 1.5 SPG 1.3 BPG]
Jack Sikma [17.8 PPG 7.4 RPG]
Tel Aviv has a great 1-2 punch in Bird/Sikma. They've also done a great job of surrounding them with complimentary pieces. It seems like Bird is finally coming into his own, as he was a huge project when he was drafted. Maccabi is off to a fast start at 6-2 and Bird is leading the way, it must be a great relief to see this happening as I'm sure the pick must've been second guessed behind closed doors.
I'm curious as to what's wrong with Sikma, it might be the system they're running. Regardless, if I was Tel Aviv, I would hold on to both my franchise players.
#11 Beijing Aoshen (4-4)
Key Players :
Earl Manigault [20.0 PPG 8.4 APG 6.9 RPG]
Vinko Jelovac [21.8 PPG 8.8 RPG]
Mychal Thompson [16.5 PPG 8.6 RPG]
First things first, I'm under the impression that Mychal Thompson is not currently one of the featured players on Beijing's game plan. I strongly disagree with this decision and Mychal's shooting percentage (58%) is a great indicator that this is the wrong decision. Not only is Thompson shooting 58% from the field in 37 minutes, he is shooting 75% in the paint while averaging 8 shots per game inside the painted area.
Having said that, over all, this team is built very nicely. They have a good mix of young players and players who are currently in their prime. The 4-4 start could be chalked up to the new mix of players figuring out their roles and rotations. I'm confident Beijing will find their groove and make some noise this season.
Earl Manigault [20.0 PPG 8.4 APG 6.9 RPG]
Vinko Jelovac [21.8 PPG 8.8 RPG]
Mychal Thompson [16.5 PPG 8.6 RPG]
First things first, I'm under the impression that Mychal Thompson is not currently one of the featured players on Beijing's game plan. I strongly disagree with this decision and Mychal's shooting percentage (58%) is a great indicator that this is the wrong decision. Not only is Thompson shooting 58% from the field in 37 minutes, he is shooting 75% in the paint while averaging 8 shots per game inside the painted area.
Having said that, over all, this team is built very nicely. They have a good mix of young players and players who are currently in their prime. The 4-4 start could be chalked up to the new mix of players figuring out their roles and rotations. I'm confident Beijing will find their groove and make some noise this season.
#10 Mexico City Titans (6-1)
Key Players :
Magic Johnson [14.0 PPG 9.7 APG 8.4 RPG 2.3 SPG]
Arvydas Sabonis [18.7 PPG 12.9 RPG 4.9 APG]
Tom Meschery [25.4 PPG 6.4 RPG 2.9 APG]
With Tom Meschery giving the Titans all he's got so far early in this season, Mexico City looks REALLY scary. Magic's impact on the entire game can't be understated, he is averaging almost a triple double. I think the Titans
have really figured it out, fielding a team of matchup nightmares. There aren't many centers who can hold Sabonis with his height and agility. The same can be said for Magic at point guard. This is as good of a core as any team right now, although very unconventional. Love it.
Magic Johnson [14.0 PPG 9.7 APG 8.4 RPG 2.3 SPG]
Arvydas Sabonis [18.7 PPG 12.9 RPG 4.9 APG]
Tom Meschery [25.4 PPG 6.4 RPG 2.9 APG]
With Tom Meschery giving the Titans all he's got so far early in this season, Mexico City looks REALLY scary. Magic's impact on the entire game can't be understated, he is averaging almost a triple double. I think the Titans
have really figured it out, fielding a team of matchup nightmares. There aren't many centers who can hold Sabonis with his height and agility. The same can be said for Magic at point guard. This is as good of a core as any team right now, although very unconventional. Love it.
#9 Belgrade KK Partizan (4-1)
Key Players :
Elvin Hayes [34.2 PPG 10 RPG 3 BPG 1.2 SPG]
Cliff Robinson [13.6 PPG 5.8 RPG 3.4 APG]
Radivoj Korac [11.2 PPG 10.8 RPG 4.0 APG]
This is a competitive team which is kind of in an awkward position. I would've rather seen them keep the younger Dr. J but I'm probably in the minority here with the way Hayes is performing. 34 points per game to start the season is just absolutely unheard of and he's single handedly keeping them in games. Hayes has relatively no help thus far from his teammates though.
The ever disappointing Cliff Robinson is putting up his usual mediocre 13.6 and 5.8. The most curious part is what has happened to Radivoj Korac so far? I know it's still VERY early but Korac is off to a disappointing start.
Elvin Hayes [34.2 PPG 10 RPG 3 BPG 1.2 SPG]
Cliff Robinson [13.6 PPG 5.8 RPG 3.4 APG]
Radivoj Korac [11.2 PPG 10.8 RPG 4.0 APG]
This is a competitive team which is kind of in an awkward position. I would've rather seen them keep the younger Dr. J but I'm probably in the minority here with the way Hayes is performing. 34 points per game to start the season is just absolutely unheard of and he's single handedly keeping them in games. Hayes has relatively no help thus far from his teammates though.
The ever disappointing Cliff Robinson is putting up his usual mediocre 13.6 and 5.8. The most curious part is what has happened to Radivoj Korac so far? I know it's still VERY early but Korac is off to a disappointing start.
#8 Washington Bullets (4-4)
Key Players :
Pete Maravich [15.5 PPG 7.5 RPG 9.0 APG]
Rick Barry [22.8 PPG 5.8 RPG 3.5 APG]
Aleksander Belov [18.1 PPG 10.3 RPG 3.4 BPG]
I'm not sure Belov is a secret around the league anymore. It was a matter of time until he started coming on to his own and now what a piece, to go along with Barry and Maravich.
Washington however, has struggled out of the gate but the talent on paper is definitely there and it should only be a matter of time until they put it together. Have to give a lot of credit to the Bullets owner who is one of the better new owners in the league and has been extremely careful pulling any triggers so far. If they can get a little bit more scoring from Maravich, they should be alright moving forward.
Pete Maravich [15.5 PPG 7.5 RPG 9.0 APG]
Rick Barry [22.8 PPG 5.8 RPG 3.5 APG]
Aleksander Belov [18.1 PPG 10.3 RPG 3.4 BPG]
I'm not sure Belov is a secret around the league anymore. It was a matter of time until he started coming on to his own and now what a piece, to go along with Barry and Maravich.
Washington however, has struggled out of the gate but the talent on paper is definitely there and it should only be a matter of time until they put it together. Have to give a lot of credit to the Bullets owner who is one of the better new owners in the league and has been extremely careful pulling any triggers so far. If they can get a little bit more scoring from Maravich, they should be alright moving forward.
#7 Lithuania BC Zalgiris (4-4)
Key Players :
Wilt Chamberlain [16.5 PPG 11.5 RPG 2.1 BPG]
Bob McAdoo [23.1 PPG 6.4 RPG 1.3 BPG]
Tom Van Arsdale [21.9 PPG 6.6 APG]
Another crazy talented team which is underperforming. Wilt Chamberlain is averaging an unacceptable 16.5 points per game, and McAdoo is only pulling down 6.4 rebounds per game. Lithuania needs to find it's groove sooner than later, because with the type of talent they have a home court advantage in the playoffs could mean a deep run.
Maurice Cheeks is one of the better PGs in the league in my opinion, but you'll have to dig deep into efficiency stats to find out exactly why. It's good to see Bob McAdoo come in to training camp in the best shape of his life.
Wilt Chamberlain [16.5 PPG 11.5 RPG 2.1 BPG]
Bob McAdoo [23.1 PPG 6.4 RPG 1.3 BPG]
Tom Van Arsdale [21.9 PPG 6.6 APG]
Another crazy talented team which is underperforming. Wilt Chamberlain is averaging an unacceptable 16.5 points per game, and McAdoo is only pulling down 6.4 rebounds per game. Lithuania needs to find it's groove sooner than later, because with the type of talent they have a home court advantage in the playoffs could mean a deep run.
Maurice Cheeks is one of the better PGs in the league in my opinion, but you'll have to dig deep into efficiency stats to find out exactly why. It's good to see Bob McAdoo come in to training camp in the best shape of his life.
#6 Seattle Sonics (6-2)
Key Players :
Alex English [31.5 PPG 7.6 RPG]
Jo Jo White [20.9 PPG 9.0 APG]
Ivo Daneau [18.3 PPG 4.5 RPG 5.8 APG]
Similar to New York swapping Imhoff for Parish, I'm a big fan of Seattle swapping Lee Schaeffer for Alex English. It seems like the drop-off in production is not even there, as English is averaging 31 points per game already.
It's extremely hard to remain competitive after a championship season and try to get younger at the same time, my hats off to the Sonics GM so far. Jo Jo and English are great pieces moving forward, and I'm excited to see what else the GM has up his sleeve.
Alex English [31.5 PPG 7.6 RPG]
Jo Jo White [20.9 PPG 9.0 APG]
Ivo Daneau [18.3 PPG 4.5 RPG 5.8 APG]
Similar to New York swapping Imhoff for Parish, I'm a big fan of Seattle swapping Lee Schaeffer for Alex English. It seems like the drop-off in production is not even there, as English is averaging 31 points per game already.
It's extremely hard to remain competitive after a championship season and try to get younger at the same time, my hats off to the Sonics GM so far. Jo Jo and English are great pieces moving forward, and I'm excited to see what else the GM has up his sleeve.
#5 Chicago Bulls (8-1)
Key Players :
Julius Earving [25.4 PPG 8.2 RPG 4.2 APG]
Bob Lanier [21.9 PPG 9.2 RPG]
Bulls have yet again fielded a very competitive team, lead by Julius Erving. Again the theme of trading your franchise player for a younger one continues. Again, in my opinion this was a stroke of genius. Hayes is about to peak and plateau, while Dr. J is just coming into his own.
Combined with Lanier, Chicago packs a great 1-2 punch, with some key contributing players like Buse, Paulauskas and Rickey Green. Chicago has a great asset in the upcoming Moscow first round pick, don't be surprised if they added another player in return for that.
Julius Earving [25.4 PPG 8.2 RPG 4.2 APG]
Bob Lanier [21.9 PPG 9.2 RPG]
Bulls have yet again fielded a very competitive team, lead by Julius Erving. Again the theme of trading your franchise player for a younger one continues. Again, in my opinion this was a stroke of genius. Hayes is about to peak and plateau, while Dr. J is just coming into his own.
Combined with Lanier, Chicago packs a great 1-2 punch, with some key contributing players like Buse, Paulauskas and Rickey Green. Chicago has a great asset in the upcoming Moscow first round pick, don't be surprised if they added another player in return for that.
#4 Harlem Globetrotters (3-5)
Key Players :
Bill Walton [23.8 PPG 9.4 RPG 3.0 BPG]
John Havlicek [22.4 PPG 5.1 RPG 4.3 APG]
Dennis Johnson [15.5 PPG 4.6 RPG 9.5 APG]
The 3-5 record does not correctly reflect the talent on this team. You got 3 All Stars leading the charge all in their prime and contributing for the next few years.
With Dennis Johnson roaming the perimeter as the facilitator with a scoring punch. And Hondo on the wing with an elite inside presence in Walton giving them the rare inside out combo all clubs covet.
The one scary stat is that all 5 starters are logging over 40 minutes a night 8 games into the season and there is a possibility that they may flameout as we enter into the latter stages of the season.
Still, with the core being so young, look for this team to turn things around fast and once again reign as one of the top teams in the league.
Bill Walton [23.8 PPG 9.4 RPG 3.0 BPG]
John Havlicek [22.4 PPG 5.1 RPG 4.3 APG]
Dennis Johnson [15.5 PPG 4.6 RPG 9.5 APG]
The 3-5 record does not correctly reflect the talent on this team. You got 3 All Stars leading the charge all in their prime and contributing for the next few years.
With Dennis Johnson roaming the perimeter as the facilitator with a scoring punch. And Hondo on the wing with an elite inside presence in Walton giving them the rare inside out combo all clubs covet.
The one scary stat is that all 5 starters are logging over 40 minutes a night 8 games into the season and there is a possibility that they may flameout as we enter into the latter stages of the season.
Still, with the core being so young, look for this team to turn things around fast and once again reign as one of the top teams in the league.
#3 Boston Celtics (5-0)
Key Players :
Jerry Lucas [26.0 PPG 15.8 RPG]
Willis Reed [20.6 PPG 11.0 RPG 2.4 BPG]
Don Sunderlage [16.4 PPG 7.8 APG 2.4 SPG]
Predictably, the Celts have started the season undefeated with a 5-0 record right out of the gate with an absurd points differential of 19.8.
The frontcourt is dominating on offense while collecting a ton of rebounds to go with the scoring. The scoring has come at a hyper efficient pace with Reed shooting 63% and Lucas shooting 59% respectively, numbers that are very admirable even for big men.
These numbers have gone a long way in making the Celtics the number one offense in the league averaging a ridiculous 122.0 PPG as a team. The defense isn’t too shabby either ranked number 13 in the league but this team goes where its offense can take it.
Jerry Lucas [26.0 PPG 15.8 RPG]
Willis Reed [20.6 PPG 11.0 RPG 2.4 BPG]
Don Sunderlage [16.4 PPG 7.8 APG 2.4 SPG]
Predictably, the Celts have started the season undefeated with a 5-0 record right out of the gate with an absurd points differential of 19.8.
The frontcourt is dominating on offense while collecting a ton of rebounds to go with the scoring. The scoring has come at a hyper efficient pace with Reed shooting 63% and Lucas shooting 59% respectively, numbers that are very admirable even for big men.
These numbers have gone a long way in making the Celtics the number one offense in the league averaging a ridiculous 122.0 PPG as a team. The defense isn’t too shabby either ranked number 13 in the league but this team goes where its offense can take it.
#2 Toronto Raptors (6-1)
Key Players :
Darrall Imhoff [19.6 PPG 10.0 RPG 3.9 BPG]
Lee Shaffer [ 25.9 PPG 9.1 RPG]
Walt Frazier [23.0 PPG 6.1 APG 5.6 RPG]
The Raptors were one of three teams involved in the blockbuster trade that sent tremors around the league. With so many superstars calling a new city home the first question that comes to mind is how would they adapt to their new surroundings?
Fortunately for the Raps, the acquisitions have paid off mightily thus far leading the team to a blazing 6-1 start. It may have been tough dealing a talent like Magic but it seems the bold move is paying dividends.
Young Tree Rollins seems to be the x factor here anchoring the defense of this top tier team swatting nearly 5 shots a game and he is not even listed in the key players list showing the depth of talent on this team.
One point of note here is that Imhoff and Shaffer have not played exactly to the same standards as we have seen from them in the past. This seems like just a minor hitch with the two getting acquainted with the new system and requiring just a bit of time to mesh before the chemistry is seamless.
Darrall Imhoff [19.6 PPG 10.0 RPG 3.9 BPG]
Lee Shaffer [ 25.9 PPG 9.1 RPG]
Walt Frazier [23.0 PPG 6.1 APG 5.6 RPG]
The Raptors were one of three teams involved in the blockbuster trade that sent tremors around the league. With so many superstars calling a new city home the first question that comes to mind is how would they adapt to their new surroundings?
Fortunately for the Raps, the acquisitions have paid off mightily thus far leading the team to a blazing 6-1 start. It may have been tough dealing a talent like Magic but it seems the bold move is paying dividends.
Young Tree Rollins seems to be the x factor here anchoring the defense of this top tier team swatting nearly 5 shots a game and he is not even listed in the key players list showing the depth of talent on this team.
One point of note here is that Imhoff and Shaffer have not played exactly to the same standards as we have seen from them in the past. This seems like just a minor hitch with the two getting acquainted with the new system and requiring just a bit of time to mesh before the chemistry is seamless.
#1 London Towers (7-1)
Key Players :
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar [19.5 PPG 9.0 RPG 2.3 BPG]
Earl Monroe [22.3 PPG 4.9 RPG 1.9 SPG]
As expected, another strong start for London this year with the second ranked defense leading the way. Kareem has been a great nuisance at the rim for opposing offenses changing shots left and right with Earl Monroe giving hell to opposing guards.
On the down side, Kareem has began the year uncharacteristically slow averaging a career low in points and shooting his lowest field goal percentage since his sophomore season. Also a down year for Jerry West averaging a career low in points as well as field goal percentage. Kareem is a perennial all-star and will more than likely turn it around but the days of West being a star in this league may have come to an end.
Nevertheless, if the defense continues to dominate as it has through the first 8 games of the season expect London to be contending all the way.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar [19.5 PPG 9.0 RPG 2.3 BPG]
Earl Monroe [22.3 PPG 4.9 RPG 1.9 SPG]
As expected, another strong start for London this year with the second ranked defense leading the way. Kareem has been a great nuisance at the rim for opposing offenses changing shots left and right with Earl Monroe giving hell to opposing guards.
On the down side, Kareem has began the year uncharacteristically slow averaging a career low in points and shooting his lowest field goal percentage since his sophomore season. Also a down year for Jerry West averaging a career low in points as well as field goal percentage. Kareem is a perennial all-star and will more than likely turn it around but the days of West being a star in this league may have come to an end.
Nevertheless, if the defense continues to dominate as it has through the first 8 games of the season expect London to be contending all the way.
