NBA season is here and THE WIRK v THE RICK is ON

I'm going head to head with my buddy Ricky at www.believeinthestreak.com since it's the 1st night of the NBA season.  It's all for "love of the game", but since we're known to spend some time in a Las Vegas sportsbook, we figured a friendly competition could be fun.

We're both starting with 1000 units.  We'll iron out the rules when he calls me, but here's a starting point.

For obvious reasons we seemed to both want to stay away from the Washington Wizards v Cleveland Cavs game.  Why?  Garbage teams are very difficult to bet for or against.  Wagering on basketball is difficult enough without adding that level of unpredictability. 

As you can see, we both like the Miami Heat to cover -6.5 tonight.

Ricky is taking the over +185.5 in the Dallas Mavericks v Los Angeles Lakers game.  I'm comfortable taking the Lakers with the line -9.  I don't like over/unders.  Betting totals is an interesting skill, that I haven't mastered.  Plus, with it being the 1st game of the season, Dirk Nowitzki being day-to-day and Kobe Bryant "questionable", I don't know where the scoring will come from.

Game ON.

THE WIRK

Dan Gilbert's (Cleveland Cavs majority owner) Open Letter "says" what needed to be "said"

I can't not include this in my blog.  I commend Dan Gilbert for having the guts to say something (i.e. even though it's too late).  Someone needs to say something.  To have LeBron not contact the Cleveland Cavaliers and not inform them of his decision after 7 years and all that the organization has done for him, his friends, and family is utterly DESPICABLE.

I heard LeBron mention something about the Cavaliers getting rid of him.  Give me a break.  The city cried when he was drafted and welcomed him with open arms and were willing to fight for him with both arms also.  All it takes is a look at oft-injured, veteran center who NEVER gave up and always believed to see that loyalty is rewarded.  Rome wasn't built in a day, and I doubt sincerely that the Heat earn the championships they expect to win with the Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and LeBron James trio...  If anything LeBron has placed himself among a different peer group in his attempt to chase titles.  He's now a "Pippen" (i.e. SORRY, SCOTTIE), but not even ~ because Pippen actually WON.  ****  Scottie Pippen is actually a trending topic on Twitter right now, so obviously great minds think alike!

Below is the full-text of Dan Gilbert's open letter and the link for you to click on if you prefer:  http://www.nba.com/cavaliers/news/gilbert_letter_100708.html


THE WIRK
----------------------------

Cavaliers: Open Letter to Fans from Cavaliers Majority Owner Dan Gilbert


Dear Cleveland, All Of Northeast Ohio and Cleveland Cavaliers Supporters Wherever You May Be Tonight;

As you now know, our former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this evening, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier.

This was announced with a several day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his "decision" unlike anything ever "witnessed" in the history of sports and probably the history of entertainment.

Clearly, this is bitterly disappointing to all of us.

The good news is that the ownership team and the rest of the hard-working, loyal, and driven staff over here at your hometown Cavaliers have not betrayed you nor NEVER will betray you.

There is so much more to tell you about the events of the recent past and our more than exciting future. Over the next several days and weeks, we will be communicating much of that to you.

You simply don't deserve this kind of cowardly betrayal.

You have given so much and deserve so much more.

In the meantime, I want to make one statement to you tonight:

"I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE"

You can take it to the bank.

If you thought we were motivated before tonight to bring the hardware to Cleveland, I can tell you that this shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.

Some people think they should go to heaven but NOT have to die to get there.

Sorry, but that's simply not how it works.

This shocking act of disloyalty from our home grown "chosen one" sends the exact opposite lesson of what we would want our children to learn. And "who" we would want them to grow-up to become.

But the good news is that this heartless and callous action can only serve as the antidote to the so-called "curse" on Cleveland, Ohio.

The self-declared former "King" will be taking the "curse" with him down south. And until he does "right" by Cleveland and Ohio, James (and the town where he plays) will unfortunately own this dreaded spell and bad karma.

Just watch.

Sleep well, Cleveland.

Tomorrow is a new and much brighter day....

I PROMISE you that our energy, focus, capital, knowledge and experience will be directed at one thing and one thing only:

DELIVERING YOU the championship you have long deserved and is long overdue....





Dan Gilbert
Majority Owner
Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavs fired Mike Brown ~ Who's the next Cavs coach?

Looks like SamAmico's tweet was on target last week.  The Cleveland Cavs have fired Mike Brown (i.e. who I will now nickname, Cleveland's "Ollie North") and they did it right before the deadline in which they would have owed the coach $4.5 million.  Mike Brown coached the Cavs for the past 5 years and won 61 (i.e. I think) games last season.  He has the highest winning percentage in Cavs history (i.e. .663 with a W-L record of: 272-138).

I'm realistic.  I'm not about to put all the blame on Mike Brown's shoulders for the Cavs poor playoff performance.  However, I do believe that he could have done more with what he had.  I've never coached a day in my life, but I know my rotation would've been different and that after 5 years, I'd have drawn up more than the "Give it to LeBron" play.  I do realize that there are some no talent assclowns on that team that need to go.  With the July 1st deadline looming and everyone watching the LeBron countdown, I'm curious who else leaves/retires/stays...

Who do you want to see Coach the Cavs?  I'll tell you right now, and I didn't need a statement from Duke to tell me it, but I really don't believe Coach K will leave Duke ~ regardless of the Danny Ferry and LeBron James connection. 

Do you see Calipari leading the Cavs?  What about if Stan Van Gundy gets fired?  Voice your thoughts.  I'm interested in knowing what you think...

Oh, and if you read the following article on NBA.com, you can't help but notice the following sentence, "Ferry, too, has an unsure future in Cleveland as his contract is set to expire next month."  Interesting...

Lastly, I just saw this quote, "Obviously, we didn't achieve what we set out to achieve, which is to win a championship," Ilgauskas said, according to The Plain Dealer of Cleveland. "But if you're going to lay all the blame on coach Brown and think that's going to solve everything, you've got another thing coming."  Don't worry, Zydrunas.  I blame you, too.  Just kidding!  Kind of, but not really...  Haha.


THE WIRK

NBA and NHL Playoffs ~ Go Cavs, Win Game 1! Go Caps ~ Win Game 2!

I am watching the Cleveland Cavs whip up on the Chicago Bulls on TV, and trying to resist the urge to take a nap this gorgeous Saturday afternoon.  Somewhere admidst my boredom, I started to think about my plans for tonight and remembered that Game 2 of the Washington Capitals v Montreal Canadiens series is tonight at 7 at the Verizon Center.  The Caps dropped game 1 in overtime, so tonight's match-up is expected to be a good one.  Soooooo, began the hunt for the perfect ticket.

After looking at Ticketmaster and striking out, I went to my favorite ticket broker site.  I wanted to see where those sharks priced the tickets in their inventory, since they're usually the highest once you add fees, etc.  Then I went to Craigs list to see where those folks had priced tickets, but they didn't have a lot of inventory available and the idea of meeting a complete freak, who knew I was carrying cash, this afternoon wasn't appealing.  Ebay is always fun to look at, but there was one guy out in Springfield who wanted a price, that I could get outside the arena tonight ~ so a trip to Springfield was out of the question.  My last and final stop was the Capitals Ticket Exchange, where season ticket holders list their "extras", and I found a ticket listed for a more than reasonable price.

I have a friend who's a Habs fan, and as soon as the game went into overtime we bet about the outcome of Game 1.  The loser owed the winner a trip to Vegas.  Unfortunately the Caps and I lost.  Fortunately, my friend couldn't accept the bet and offered me the trip to Vegas anyway!  Woohoo ~ I won after all!!!  Told you I was lucky.  We'll see if the trip actually pans out, but regardless at least I'm off the hook without having to weasel my way out (i.e. I'll never explicitly renege on a bet).

Anyway, I'm all set for tonight's hockey game, so I'll see you at the phone booth.  Oh ~ and I'll be sporting my "new"  Ovechkin jersey.  This is going to be a good one!

By the way, if I had to guess about the scalper prices to night, here's what I think.  A pair of lowers will run about $250/$300 and you'll be able to score a pair of uppers for $150/$200.  Those are just my guesses, based on what I've seen.  It is the playoffs after all.  ****  As a rule, I'd never agree to paly a price that's not a multiple of $20.  Why?  Everyone knows that ATMs don't give out $10s, so it's pointless.  Therefore, why stress about finding $10, when the scalper may even be pressed to give you change?  Do everything in increments of $20. 

Let's go Caps!!!

Ugh - in the amount of time it took me to type this, the Bulls have cut the Cavs lead to 7 points.  Time to re-focus my energy towards Cleveland.  Don't get me wrong.  I'm not scared, but seriously...


THE WIRK

The NBA Playoff schedule is out and NHL Playoffs are underway ~ Let's go Cavs and Caps!!!

Basketball:

The NBA playoff schedule has been released, and I've been looking at my frequent flier mile balances and proposing multi-city trips trying to make the most out of each and every trip (i.e. trying to combine baseball and basketball).  If I'm heading West, I want the trip to be worth it.  The only issue, is that I'm not sure when I have to start traveling for work.  Soooooooooo, West coast friends should expect to hear from me in the next couple of days as I attempt to hash out a schedule that makes sense, physically and financially. 

Plus, let's put this into perspective ~ this is only the first round.

I took a quick look and here are my predictions for the NBA playoff 1st round match-ups :

Lets's start with the East:

(1) Cleveland Cavaliers (61-21)  <--- Advances (i.e Go Cavs!!!)
(8) Chicago Bulls (41-41)

(2) Orlando Magic (59-23) <--- Advances (i.e.  I predict a Magic sweep)
(7) Charlotte Bobcats (44-38)

(3) Atlanta Hawks (53-29)  <--- Advances (i.e. Coach Woodson's Hawks are exciting to watch)
(6) Milwaukee Bucks (46-36)

(4) Boston Celtics (50-32)
(5) Miami Heat (47-35) <--- Advances (i.e. I can't in good conscience pick the Celtics and even Doc doesn't want to think about the future)

And, now for the West:

(1) Los Angeles Lakers (57-25)  <--- Advances (i.e. going to be exciting with Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant)
(8) Oklahoma City Thunder (50-32)

(2) Dallas Mavericks (55-27) <--- Advances (i.e. I'm so tired of watching the Spurs play sleepy basketball)
(7) San Antonio Spurs (50-32)

(3) Phoenix Suns (54-28) <--- Advances (i.e. Portland isn't healthy enough squad to compete with the hot Suns)
(6) Portland Trailblazers (50-32)

(4) Denver Nuggets (53-29) <--- Advances (i.e. going to be a fight, might even go to 7)
(5) Utah Jazz (53-29)

The road to the NBA Finals should go through Cleveland.  Check out the following video, to get a taste for what to expect if you want to come out and see the Cavs play in the finals.



****  On another note, what in the world is going on in Chicago with John Paxson and Vinny Del Negro?!?!http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nba/news/story?id=5086856

Hockey:

The Caps are kicking off the NHL playoffs.  Game 1 is tonight at the Verizon Center today @ 7PM.  Game 2 is on Saturday (i.e. same time, same place).  They're taking on the Montreal Canadiens.  I have a few friends that are Habs fans, but I think those guys are going to be disappointed.  I've been to the Bell Centre and seen how passionate the Habs fans are about their winning team, but I look for the Washington Capitals to advance.

Nice, but the Caps are going to advance

Incidentally, I just took a poll on the Caps website and it looks like I'm not the only one.  Here is the question and the poll results.

Question:  Who will win the series between the Capitals and the Canadiens?

Caps in 4 or 5 = 56.67%
Habs in 4 or 5 = 5.67%
Caps in 6 or 7 - 24.6%
Habs in 6 or 7 = 13.06%

A while ago, I was watching Washington Post Live and listening to Mike Wise talk about Washington Capitals' fans and their expectations with regard to the postseason.  If I remember correctly, his point was that Caps fans are expecting too much by "expecting" to see the Caps win the Stanley Cup.  I respect his opinion, but disagree.  I believe, that when you are so close to the championship and it appears you're stronger than the previous year, winning it ALL is not an unrealistic expectation.  Let's go Caps!  Go get that Stanley Cup and bring it back to DC.


THE WIRK

Caps sweep the Penguins, UConn repeats, the NBA Playoff race, and upcoming adventures

An array of sporting events happened and are happening tonight.  Honestly, I fully intended to go out this evening and decided to wear my new Capitals' Ovechkin jersey.  However, after getting ready, I decided to lay low and flip channels all evening.

Hockey and College Basketball (i.e. just a little bit on women's college basketball):

While watching the Caps take on the Penguins (i.e. Caps were up, 5-3) on TV, I received a call from a buddy who told me to flip to the Women's College Basketball Championship game.  He told me that UConn was losing.  Say what?!?!  I flipped to it and Stanford was beating UConn 20-17 in the 2nd half of the game.  With a painfully low score, I was interested in it for only a few minutes.  I saw a missed lay-up, a bunch of missed shots, and a score that indicated that UConn was starting to catch up.  UConn eventually took the lead (i.e. I think they led by 4 when I decided to go back to the hockey game).  I'm going to assume that UConn won the game and that their winning streak is in tact.

The Caps ended up winning 6-3 and Ovechkin scored two goals, compared to Crosby's one.  It's official, the Caps have swept the Penguins, 4-0.  Conclusion: Perhaps my new jersey is lucky?!?!


Basketball:

Don Nelson had a chance to break Lenny Wilkens' record for all-time wins tonight in DC.  Currently, both Nellie and Lenny are tied with 1,332 wins.  I noticed earlier in the day that one of my facebook friends had suite tickets that he was giving away for tonight's game.  A free suite ticket to see the Golden State Warriors take on the Wizards and watch Nellie make history, and I couldn't muster the energy to request a ticket...  No offense to Nellie, because I have much respect, but does that tell you how disinterested I was in the game even though it would've been historic?  If anything, it looks like I didn't miss anything since the Wizards defeated  Golden State, 112-94.  I watched exactly 0.0 minutes of this game.

The Cavs hosted the Raptors at home and won.  This isn't really noteworthy, but since I am a Cavs fan, the mention is obligatory.  On another note, while stressed out and rooting for the Duke Blue Devils, I wore my Cavz - Better with Z, Fresh Brewed Tees shirt, last night and it generated someinterest and overall received a good response.

I'm heading to Atlanta later this week, and I actually just read on that Joe Johnson is going to miss at least the next two games with a sprained right thumb.  ****Mental note: Must check and see if Friday's game is one of the next 2 games on the Hawks' schedule.  I'm guessing it is.  Boo!!!  While we're on the subject of Hawks' injuries, what is going on with Mike Bibby's ingrown toenail and possible infection ~ ugh.  Come on, Hawks!!!  I want to see you play at full strength and not all banged up before heading into the Playoffs.

The Thunder lost in overtime to the Jazz today, 139-140. With the NBA Playoff race in the West being a tight one, this loss hurt for all the Durant and OKC Thunder fans.

I'm eagerly anticipating the release of the NBA Playoffs schedule.  Once, I see it ~ I can plan where I want to go.  Initially (i.e. in a perfect world and without looking at costs and schedules) based on the current standings, the Cavs v Toronto series and Lakers v Blazers series are the most intriguing.  Why?  I haven't seen a home game in Toronto or Portland and would love to return to either city and see friends. 

On a plane heading "somewhere"

The current standings in the East  (1-8) are as follows:

1. Cleveland
2. Orlando
3. Atlanta
4. Boston
5. Milwaukee
6. Miami
7. Charlotte
8. Toronto

The current standings in the West (1-8) are as follows:

1. L.A. Lakers
2. Utah
3. Dallas
4. Phoenix
5. Denver
6. San Antonio
7. Oklahoma City
8. Portland

Baseball:

I may not have made it to opening day, but I believe I see a Braves game in my future.  Stay tuned.


Golf:

 I've got some big plans in the next few days.  Here's a hint, I'm going to Georgia.  Stay tuned.


Tennis:

I was checking schedules of some of the Majors (i.e. after I saw a post from a friend about Roland Garros in 40+ days).  Paris is one of my favorite cities and I was fortunate to spend a weekend there last year.  When doing some checking, I noticed that the French Open is being played during Memorial Day weekend.  Immediately I checked my points and miles balances.  As of now, it's a definite maybe, since I find the idea completely intriguing (i.e. it requires no time off of work and I can cover Paris in a couple of days for the tournament)

Of course, the next thing I looked up were the dates for Wimbledon, which just so happens to end on the Sunday, 4th of July.  I like London also...  Just saying.  Seriously though, I'd most likely have to pick between the two events, and it's a little too early for me to commit to either.

Can you hear that?  The gears in my head are turning, but that's all I have for now.  Tomorrow is going to be a great day!


THE WIRK

My cousin's wedding kept me away, but it's Game ON now for hockey and basketball

OK - so it's been a while since I posted, but it's only because I've been completely consumed with family stuff.  My cousin, Nick, got maried in NJ over the weekend, and between the rehearsal dinner, wedding, and travel time ~ I've basically managed to miss EVERYTHING in the world of sports.

Welcome to the family, Ging

Friday, I was invited to San Antonio to go see the Cleveland Cavaliers v San Antonio Spurs game with friends as part of one of my best friend's birthday festivities.  I couldn't make the trip because I wanted to attend a rehearsal dinner in NJ.  I've seen the Spurs play at home back in Jan 2009 (i.e. work had brought me out there for meetings).  I hope my friends had a blast on Friday. Unfortunately, the Cavs lost to the Spurs 102-97.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHUBS!

Silvia and Doug (aka Chubs), San Antonio ~ Jan 2009

 Spurs game w/a fellow sportsfan, while in San Antonio ~ Jan 2009

One of the decorated "outhouses" on display in front of the Spurs' arena ~ Jan 2009

Saturday there were college basketball games, and I think I saw about 2 minutes of the last one ~ but I cannot tell you what I saw because I was so disinterested. 

No sports this Saturday, I'm watching a wedding

On Sunday afternoon when I was driving home from Jersey, I learned that Duke had beaten Baylor (i.e. thanks to a text message from my brother).  Other than that, I have no idea what happened in the world of sports.  I do know, that the  Duke v WVU game is the 2nd game of Saturday's final four match-up, and I want to go to Indianapolis to see it.  I looked at flights and right now, that's my only "hiccup".  I've been to the Final Four and seen Lucas Oil Stadium, so I can't figure out if I'm really interested or just being restless.  It would be fun to see some of my family friends though, and I do like Indy, so...

I ended up meeting some friends Sunday night and a few of the Capitals were out (i.e. Green, Knuble, Perrault, and Backstrom).  Unfortunately, they'd lost to Calgary earlier in the day.  The Caps posed for pictures and may have been out to support a fundraiser to support The Arlington Food Assistance Center.

In a perfect world, this will be my sports schedule for the week:
Tuesday - Ottawa Senators v Washington Caps, in DC or Oklahoma City Thunder v Philadelphia Sixers, in Philly
Wednesday - Milwaukee Bucks v Cleveland Cavs, in Cleveland
Saturday - NCAA Final Four games, in Indianapolis

How much of this schedule will actually be realized is still up in the air.  Then again, anything is possible. Everything will most likely be a last minute decision.  I'm exhausted from last week's adventures and I'm trying to pick and choose my adventures carefully since I'm not sure yet, how much I owe the tax man this year.  ****Mental note, I must call my accountant tomorrow. 

I'm racking my brain for sports topics that are relevant and interesting and I'm drawing a complete blank, so until next time...

I don't want to put up wedding pics, since that's not really the function of this blog, so here's a pic of me with Penny Hardaway (i.e. Anfernee Hardaway, a Memphis alumnus) at the Final Four in 2008.  Part of the fun of being at events like the Final Four is running into NBA players who are out there supporting their alma maters.  With Duke, Michigan State, Butler, and WVU in the running this year ~ there should be a good number of former players in the crowd, so if you're a basketball fan, keep your eyes open.

Penny Hardaway was in San Antonio rooting for his Tigers ~ Feb 2008

****  Updated November 23, 2010:  Someone keeps doing a Google search on "Penny Hardaway girlfriend" and this post and image come up in the search.  For the record ~ No, I am not and was never his girlfriend.  I just ran into the guy in San Antonio.

THE WIRK

Dear... ~ Open Letters Leading up to the Cavs v Knicks game on Monday

Dear Big Baby Davis ~ way to go...  You messed up Shaq's thumb and according to the AP, he has to come to Baltimore today to see Dr. Graham.  Thumb wars are dangerous.

Dear Shaq - I'm all for sportsmanship, BUT why didn't you just get BBD (i.e. hmmm, sorry Bell Biv Devoe) off of you when he was messing with your thumb?  I saw the video.  I'm surprised you didn't react.  Speaking of video...  Yesterday, I was forwarded the video of Kevin Garnett yelling at BBD on the sidelines of a game, and BBD reacting by CRYING on the bench.  WOW.  Check it out:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzR60xPDLQs

Dear Danny Ferry - I see Jamison is performing better, as he gets into the Cleveland groove.  The Cavs have won 3 in a row, so I'm feeling much more comfortable about the trade.  However, now Cleveland and I are patiently waiting for time to pass so things could be made "right".  March 21, Zydrunas can return.  Until then, with Shaq out, Cavs fans have to rely on Varejao as your center.  I'm pretty sure that the Knicks aren't afraid of Varejao, but I sure am... I really hope the Cavs don't lose to the Knicks on Monday.  A Cavs' loss to the Knicks would be embarrassing ~ not as embarrassing as losing to the Nets (i.e. let's face it, that wouldn't happen). 

Dear Anderson Varejao - Your numbers in the past 3 games have been decent (i..e 13.0 points and 8.3 boards)...  You're playing well.  Don't blow it.

Dear Lebron - I read that you said it may take a while to recover from your collision with DeMar DeRozan...  Please, rest up.  T-Mac missed the second half of the game against the Grizzzlies, but he's currently listed as a probably starter for Monday night.  I wonder if he'll play the entire game.  My guess is NO, especially if the Cavs grab a huge lead early.

Last but not least...

Dear Knicks fans - I may have to eat these words later, but I think you're dreaming if you think LeBron is going to NY when his time is up in Cleveland.  As a Cavs fan, I really don't think it makes any sense.  I've heard the arguments about endorsements etc., but tell me what sponsors haven't been able to approach and find LeBron in Ohio?  Yes, NYC is a great city and MSG is a storied building with a rich history ~ but this is LeBron.  He can always just visit the city or even buy a place, go to the new Yankees' stadium, etc. and return to Ohio.  Why would he want to rebuild the broken Knicks franchise?  Now I know the rebuttal to that argument is that LeBron wouldn't have to do it alone.  Presumably LeBron would have Dwyane Wade or Chris Bosh to help him win.  Give me a break.  Why would these guys want to take on that kind of responsibility?  This isn't baseball, where you can buy the top talent and expect a championship (e.g.  the Dallas Mavericks, back in the day, come to mind as an example of a "fail").  Basketball, although there are moments of individual glory, is a team sport.  Chemistry is a huge factor, and you can't buy chemistry.  Lastly, haven't you heard?  Cleveland rocks!

Go Cavs!


THE WIRK

And now it's on my TV... Still waiting on Zydrunas to get bought out...

Now it's made it to my TV...

It's like this...  Earlier, the LA Times was reporting that the NBA will try to block Zydrunas from returning to the Cavs.  According to some source the LA Times had, the NBA believes/believed there to be a previous deal in place ~ similar to the Stackhouse, Payton deals before, that would return Zydrunas to Cleveland.  From what I've read, Phil Jackson and Doc Rivers have voiced their feelings about it and don't want the Cavs to get Big Z back.  Duh.  If I were the Lakers or the Celtics, I wouldn't want the Cavs to get a legitimate backup center.  I wouldn't want a 7'3" man in the middle who's willing to pick up 6 fouls. 

Actually, now that I think about it, I remember playing basketball with Zydrunas (i.e. when we first started dating) and he wouldn't even let ME drive to the basket for a lay-up.  I literally bounced off of his chest and almost hit the ground.  He told ME that there were "no easy baskets"...  SERIOUSLY!?!?  This is a man that does not like to lose.

According to Herb (Zydrunas' agent) there is/was no such deal in place and the buyout should "hopefully" occur today or tomorrow.  The Wiz are well under the threshold, so they have some significant leverage.  I guess if I were the Wizards, I'd try to give Zydrunas pennies on the dollar (e.g. 4% ~ hahahahahahaha) since they (i.e. like most of the free world) "know" that he doesn't want to be here and wants to go "home"...  Another strategy, I guess the Wizards could employ is to "drag their feet" and see if the Cavs self-correct like they say they will.  Admittedly, I'm curious to see if they will (i.e. I'm a doubter).

Anyway...  Still waiting on the buyout to be completed.  A loophole is a loophole ~ fix it in the new CBA.  This is not the time to make an example out of anyone.


THE WIRK

The 1st game without Big Z as a Cav ~ the Cavs win streak ends...

So the matchup I was looking forward to all week is on right now and I have to admit, I'm bored. Moreover, from the looks and sounds of it ~ the crowd at the Q is bored also...  (****Incidentally, I just checked Twitter and Bill Simmons posted the same sentiment about being confused that the crowd was dead...  See, I'm not alone.) The score is Denver 100 and Cleveland 99 with 2:13 left on the clock in the 4th.  It's GO TIME and it seems like everyone is in a haze in Cleveland.

Question:  Why is Jerry West at the game?

OK - so I'm watching this game and something's missing for me.  Where's Zydrunas?  Oh, that's right - he's probably at home watching the game also.  I was working today, so I missed Danny Ferry's press conference.  It's probably for the best though, because I'd imagine it was geared more towards welcoming Antawn Jamison to the "promised land of the East".  I did look to see if there were any quotes from the press conference of interest ~ and to be honest, I saw nothing.

This is such a tight game ~ Denver is up 106 to 103 and...  Oh wait ~ LeBron James just hit a 3 and the crowd goes wild, 48.5 on the clock...  Ok, so the game is now tied.

Let's go ahead and state the obvious.  LeBron is the star and leader of the Cavs.  Everyone in that organization bows down to King James.  The owners, management, and coaches may be paying, "leading", and teaching him, but let's face it ~ they're all subjects in King James' court.

Ok, Chauncey just missed his shot ~ we're going into overtime.

Back to the point I was trying to make.  We all value leadership and there are many different kinds of leaders in this world.  Iron-willed dictators exist, who threaten and intimidate others, to make sure people fall "in line" under their regime or else you die by the sword.  There are also more passive leaders who gently prod you into a direction that allows you to reach your goals and (with finesse) steer you towards self-actualization.

Every leader needs someone on which they may rely.  Jordan needed Pippen.  Magic needed his supporting cast.  And yeah ~ I can't help, but think Lebron needs Zydrunas.  I remember when LeBron lept into Zydrunas' arms when the Cavs made it to the Finals in 2007.  The image is everywhere.  I'd include it in here, but I don't want to steal someone else's pic.  LeBron had to seek Zydrunas out on the court and then jumped into his arms for a big bear hug.  That picture says something.  That's the type of relationship and veteran leadership that is palpable.  That's the type of relationships oganizations strive to foster between a veteran and the future/heart of a franchise. 

I can't help but think that for the next few games, until a buyout is executed and Zydrunas returns to the Cavs (i.e. fingers crossed if that's the goal) that LeBron can't feel that someone/something is missing out on the court also.  LeBron is 25 years old and Zydrunas is 34...  Both have spent there entire professional career with the Cavs organization and it's no secret that Zydrunas holds the record for most games played as a Cleveland Cavalier.  They both have grown up playing basketball for the Cavs.

WTF.  TNT just switched to the Celtics game!  Ok. TNT went back to the Cavs game.  Denver is up 116-113 with 30 seconds left on the clock... Lebron just drove ~ WOOHOO "AND 1".  Nene just fouled out.  Maybe this game will go into D-OT...  I like it when great games don't end!!!  OK - we're tied at 116 now.

Carmelo Anthony just hit for 2 with 1.9 seconds to go.  Denver up 118-116.  Time out called by the Cavs.  TNT is back to the Celtics v Lakers game.  Wow.

Some people are going to say this is a post-All-Star weekend let down for the Cavs.  Nah, I have a different theory.  I think the dynamic has changed for Cleveland and for me, it's OBVIOUS that LeBron needs Zydrunas on the court.

Ugh ~ LeBron slipped once the ball was inbounded to him, threw up a 3 ~ but missed.  The win streak is over now.  I think it was 13 in a row.  LeBron's not happy.  He just walked off the court.

Back to my point, and yes ~ I'm BIASED, but I'm also CORRECT.  LeBron especially, but the rest of the team also, needs Zydrunas on the court.  Shaq is 38 years old.  38 years old...  Wow.  All the years in the league and Shaq can't deliver extensive quality minutes.  Zydrunas can ease that burden.  Zydrunas was supplanted this year with the Shaq trade and never complained about coming off the bench.  In interviews Shaq referred to Zydrunas, not as his back-up, but as his partner and that says something.  When Zydrunas was snubbed on the night he was supposed to break the record for most games played with the Cavs franchise, LeBron was the most vocal teammate and the first to call BS.  He went to Zydrunas' defense and publicly stated that he thought his teammate and friend was treated poorly.

If Lebron was an "Emperor with new clothes", Zydrunas would be the one to tell him to stop running around naked and to go and put some clothes on AND THEN he'd either pick up a hard foul or set a screen so LeBron could hit a game winning shot....

There's a mutual respect and genuine closeness between LeBron and Zydrunas.  In relationships, they say "If/When you love someone, set them free." I don't believe this cliche was meant to be used in NBA trades.  I hope there was a "wink wink" agreement (i.e. after a contract buyout and 30 days) and that Zydrunas is brought back to the Cavs.  However, I can't help but think that Zydrunas feels hurt/angry at the fact that the franchise dealt him away.  After all the surgeries.  All the surgeries ~ that left him with "cuts/indents" in his hips, scars on his foot, and sets of crutches in his garage...  All the phone calls from the previous ownership (e.g. Gordon Gund) and visits from teammates both current and present when he was rehabbing (e.g. Coach Woodson and yeah, Danny Ferry)...  The man was going to retire years ago, but he stayed, rehabbed, and played for all of you because that's all he EVER wanted to do.

It makes me angry.  It makes me upset.  I don't play fantasy basketball.  I would never make a good General Manager because I'm not into the business of looking at contract dollars and seeing who needs to be dumped.  I am more human than that, and I can see relationships and chemistry.  Good luck, Cleveland.  You messed up, big on this one.  Lucky for you, there's still a chance that the situation can be made  "RIGHT".

Actually I think I remember reading some of Danny Ferry's comments from the press conference.  I remember reading that Danny said something about Zydrunas' jersey being raised to the rafters once his career is over.  DUH, THANK YOU FOR STATING THE OBVIOUS!!!  What's next Danny?  Are you going to tell us that "water is wet"?  Come on...  The point is, Zydrunas' career is not over ~ you know it and I know it...  Everyone knows his CAVS jersey belongs on his back, with him running up and down the court. 

THE WIRK

Ilgauskas to the Wizards ~ Seriously!?! For the record ~ I got here FIRST

Trade rumors are trade rumors.  Usually rumors are based on gossip and are generally not to be trusted.  Most people are taught not to listen to rumors because rumors are generally not true and don't come to fruition.  Like an ostrich with her head buried in the sand, I never paid attention to trade rumors that involved my ex.  Why should I?  He holds the record for most games played for the Cavs franchise.  He's played his entire career with ONE organization, since the day he was drafted in 1996.  I'm not alone when I associate him with one city, one franchise, and one team. His expiring contract (he's slated to make $11.5 million this season) made him attractive to other organizations and there's always the option of a buyout, especially since he's been sent to a non-contender (i.e. the Wizards).

The Wizards.  He got traded to the Wizards.  Of all the franchises in the league, he got put in my backyard again.  Now that I think about it, I was born here in the USA, so I actually arrived in this country FIRST.  I was in Ohio FIRST.  I was born there and earned my BS and MBA there.  When things ended between us, I left Ohio.  That's right.  I left the state.  I didn't carve out a niche in a Cleveland suburb or move closer to my parents in Southern Ohio ~ I left the state.  Now "MY HOME" is in the DC/VA/MD area.  I arrived here FIRST.  How do I feel about the fact that my ex just got dealt to a non-contending, issue-riddled, underachieving team in my BACKYARD?  I am sickened and nervous for both of us. 

For him: At this point in his career, to be dealt to Washington, has to be a huge blow.  He's just been dealt away from a Championship contender to a team that's being dismantled (i.e. read "BLOWN UP") and where the only real star is a man serving a suspension for toting a gun to the arena.  Awesome....  For Zydrunas there's still time to be traded again (i.e. until the trade deadline  of 3:01PM EST tomorrow) and there's always hope that his contract will be bought out and he can return to Cleveland in 30 days (i.e. collective bargaining agreement loophole).  Incidentally he still lives in the same house we once shared (i.e. but now he lives there with his wife and kids).  Yep, I was there FIRST also.  But I digress...  After all he has given to the Cavs' franchise to have him be dealt away is shocking.  He believed in that franchise, pre-Lebron, and to take him out of the mix when everyone in that city can "taste" a championship is just plain cruel. I recognize it's a money game at this point.  But damn...  I liken it to Ewing being traded away from the Knicks.  I couldn't stomach seeing him in a Magic uniform.  Ewing is a Knick.  Ilgauskas is a Cav.  It's not rocket science, but obviously it's a business.

For me: I don't mind being close to situations that are stressful, but there's close and TOO CLOSE.  I liked the fact that I could go see the Cavs whenever I wanted and go relatively unnoticed.  I liked the fact that I could choose "a la carte" what games interested me and hop on a plane and LEAVE it all behind.  I liked being able to turn on the TV and see him play on my own terms and not have to risk potentially running into him on the STREET.  Even in Cleveland I'd steer clear of certain sections of the arena and keep a low profile.  I'd avoid certain bars and restaurants.  Like I said, there's close and then there's TOO CLOSE.

You know how when couples break up and people have to pick a side and everyone fights for territory? Well most of the Cavs organization took his side.  That's fine.  They paid his salary and he worked for them.  I get it.  I started over ~ moved to Atlanta and ultimately to the DC/VA/MD area.  I carved out my own territory, where I know when he's in town, courtesy of the NBA schedule.  One or 2 times a year he's here.  Back in the days when the Cavs would play the Wizards in the playoffs, maybe at most, he'd be here an additional 3 times a year.  I'm not sure how I feel about him as a "resident".

Someone actually said something to me one day about me needing to get over it.  Yeah, that person got an earful after that.  Get over it?!?!  What would you do if you were on a date and you went bowling, only to see your ex shooting free throws every time you rolled a ball down the lane?  Ever been to a bar and have someone keep yapping about the Cavs, how much they love Lebron, and then hear his assessment of your ex's defensive skills?  Ever watch ESPN and see your ex as a puppet in a Nike commercial several times a day?  Ever see your name in a newspaper, written in a different language, and ask someone who speaks Lithuanian to translate it? 

Get over yourself. Relationships begin and end, but basketball is FOREVER. I am from Ohio. I am a Cavs fan. Nobody is chasing anyone. It's all for love of the game. If I wanted him I would've signed the papers and gotten married. I never did. I left town. Think whatever you want ~ but there's no disputing those FACTS, I appreciate his level of talent, hard work, and dedication to the sport. His trade to the Wizards is not going to make me a Wizards fan. A Wizards hat will never grace the top of my head. I will still be a Cavs fan. I will still make trips to Cleveland.

No, my life isn't hard.  But seriously...  Why the Wizards?  I don't want to be walking into CVS or a restaurant downtown and see him sitting at a table.  Trust me ~ I see and run into EVERYONE.  It'd only be a matter of time before he and I crossed paths.  I expect and mentally prepare to be haunted by ghosts in Cleveland, but I don't want to be haunted by ghosts here.  In Cleveland, I'm guarded and on defense but I don't have the energy to be on defense and be guarded here.

I don't care that I sound like a 16 year old ~  I GOT HERE FIRST.

I'll see for myself if this is for real or a bad dream...  I'll be at the Verizon Center on Friday for the Nuggets v Wizards game...  I wanted to see if the Nuggets are for real this year and have a chance to scout them before the playoffs.  Now I have even more interest in the game.

Dear Washington Wizards ~ Please buyout Zydrunas' contract before March 1st, so he can return to the Cavs. It's the humane and right thing to do.


THE WIRK