Cavaliers' Spoil Lakers' Xmas

There was an early part of the season when the Cavaliers fell behind in the group of "Champion Contenders."

With their 102-87 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Staples on Christmas Day - they might have joined the Contender list again.

Following the victory, LeBron James said it wasn't a statement game. However I want to direct this victory to all the Charles Barkleys and other Cavalier doubters. Give them much credit, the Cleveland Cavaliers went into the Lakers' home and broke the 11-game winning streak of the champs.

The game was a beauty for the Cavaliers, especially Mo Williams who had no remorse for Derek Fisher or his "so call" unstoppable team. The Feisty Mo had 28-points, including 3/3 from downtown.

LeBron played fair going 9-19 from the floor for 26 points. But it's the Cavs bench led by Jamario Moon on offense and Varejao on defense, that is really the big story tonight.

From the start to end, Cleveland wanted the game more and it dominated every part of the box score. The paint was shut down seeing that Gassol had 11-points and just 4-points for Andrew Bynum.

Kobe Bryant shot 30-percent, the team shot 30-percent and the combination of Odom and the rest of the bench was just atrocious - thanks to presence of Shaq in the Paint.

The Lakers just could not take the Cavs' offense or defense. Ron Artest fouled out, Odom received 2-techs and the Cavaliers just got under the skin of Kobe Bryant.

It is obvious to me who is the better defensive team. This game was a test for the Cavs. Everyone thought they couldn't beat the elite teams and they received an early Christmas present indeed.

On the other hand, the Lakers' crowd had a spoiled Holiday Spirit. After the Cavs' rowdy defense caused the fans to lose their cool - the crowd began throwing foam and water bottles at the Cavaliers. They even booed the Lakers off the court.

Like a real leader, through all the adversity, LeBron grabbed his teammates and reminded them to stay cool and finish the game in a kindly fashion.

Everyone was counting the Cavs out the playoff race in the East. Boston and Orlando should watch out. The Cavaliers didn't just win against the Lakers! They embarrassed them and it showed as the Lakers were too frustrated to play anything like championship material.

LeBron is now 7-6 against the Lakers, while Kobe is 5-7 against the Cavs. The Lakers and Cavs rematch in January at the Quicken Loans arena, this time the Lakers will not play as if it is a walk in the park.

The Cavaliers play the Houston Rockets next @ the Q. They look to avenge the lost Houston handed to them earlier in the season.

Andy, LeBron Pushes Cavs Past Blazers!

After downing two games straight, the Cleveland Cavaliers (16-7), were looking to snap that streak Friday night against the injury filled Portland Trail Blazers.

Just as expected, the Cavs got off to a good start from Mo (who was a game time decision along with Andy - due to a stomach virus) and LeBron.

The good start didn't last too long. Martell Webster, someone that doesn't even average double figures for the Blazers, hit some very big 3-point shots, scoring 13-points in the first quarter!

Despite Cleveland having a buster make shots, they dominated the paint early in the game scoring almost 20-points straight down-low before Portland could give any answers.

The second quarter looked as if the Cavs were going to top 20-turnovers again. Mike Brown, who was ejected from the Cavs last game Vs. Houston, was extremely upset. Without a doubt, I was also upset. They got out-scored 31-19 by the SHORT-HANDED team.

At half time the Cavs trailed by 9. Throughout the season, the 3rd quarter has been problematic for Cleveland; however when they came out and it was clearly a new team.

Lead by King James (who absolutely took over the 3rd quarter) the Cavs went on a big run. La'Marcus Aldridge was constantly annoyed by Varejao, since he couldn't finish at the rim.

Shaq's presence was thrown out in the 3rd quarter. He was scratched in the eye and left the game with 14-points 11-boards and 4/4 at the free-throw line.

Throughout the end of the 3rd I was able to smile. The Cavs tied the game after they were down by as many as 12-points.

Everyone knows that LeBron takes his break in the 4th quarter, but that wasn't much of a problem. Varejao held it down for the Cavs.

Playing off of broken plays and moving without the basketball in his hands. He finished with a season-high 22-points and doubled up with 10-rebounds.

He was clearly the X-factor in the Cavs 104-99 win of the Blazers.

LeBron flirted with a triple double pouring in 33-points 7-rebounds and 7-assist.

Mo Williams also had a good game, stocking up with 14-points and 10-assist.

The Cavs get right back on the road to visit Kevin Durant and the Thunder.

Cavs Looking to Snap Losing Streak With Win Over Blazers

It might be shocking for some but the Cavs are in their 2nd 2-game losing streak of the season.

What makes it more of a jaw dropper is the fact that the back to back losses are from the Western Conference. The 13-game winning streak is over.

The good part about the situation is that the Cavs are back home to face the injury ripped Blazers.

The last couple of times that Portland came to town LeBron finished with a triple-double. It's likely to happen again, as the Cavs try to avoid a rare 3-game winning streak.

The losing streak started Tuesday in a 111-109 overtime loss to the Memphis Grizzles.

21-turnovers ate Cleveland alive Vs. the Grizzlies, and against Houston it was the same story. They created 20-turnovers. When Cleveland gives the ball away that many times they have yet to win a game.

LeBron had 5-turnovers for his 3rd straight game. He is averaging almost 4 a game which is just horrible (for him especially).

Despite his turnover build up, he is averaging a career high 8.2-assists per game. The Cavaliers are 9-2 when LeBron has at least 9-assist. Even better, when LeBron attempts 17-shots, or fewer the Cavs are 7-1.

Cleveland hasn't lost 3-straight since March 2008.

Portland has been torn up by injuries. They recently lost their inside piece Greg Oden for the entire season. Even the coach of the team is out with an injury.

Anderson Varejao will have his hands full with La'Marcus Aldridge. That load just might be too much for Hickson to handle.

Revenge is Sweet!

Earlier in the Month, the Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a shocking 85-86 loss to the Chicago Bulls @ home. For some reason, I just knew it wouldn't be that way the second time around!

The Cavs (14-5) pounded the Bulls from the 3rd quarter forward. They started off sharing the ball and going straight to Shaq, which has been very successful!

Varejao playing very well all of broken plays. He kept moving with out ball, and created so many opportunities for the Cavs.

Led by Varejao, the paint was patrolled. The Cavs drilled the paint with 28-12 badly out-scoring the short handed Bulls.

LeBron's team is obviously stepping up. He is not scoring as much to lead the team, however he captured his 3rd straight double double on assist. He is not a point guard, yet he is 6th in the NBA on assist!

The King's wasn't scoring but he was making it happen. Once he entered the game, Cleveland limited the turnovers. They had 11 in the first half and zero in the second.

It was a different game for the 3rd and 4th quarter. Started with a 1pt lead and before you knew it the Cavs led by 15!

JJ Hickson helped the Cavs stretch the lead to 19 with his offensive rebounding. They maintained the lead with LeBron on the bench and by that time it was over.

When Gibson comes off the bench scoring double digits along with the rest of the bench (40-points total) it is impossible to beat the Cavs.

Such good play allowed reserves Danny Green and Darnell Jackson to come into the game with still 4-minutes left.

The Cavs will play Brandon Jennings and the Milwaukee Bucks next. Cleveland has won 4-straight over Milwaukee.

Extra Notes: The Cavs were wearing pink shoes and accessories to support the fight against Breast Cancer!

LeBron and Noah got into an altercation. Noah said some disrespectful things to LeBron that caused him to walk over to the Chicago bench along with Mo. Luckily, Big Z broke it up and LeBron left the game with 6-minutes still remaining.

Cavs Vs. Bulls Game 2

The Bulls (7-9) are kind of a smart team. They took advantage of the Cavaliers (13-5), a month ago when the Club was still trying to find a suitable offensive and defensive identity. The Cavs, who are on a 2-game winning streak after taking down two western conference power-houses (Mavs & Suns), will have the chance to get revenge on the Bulls.

Shaq is now fitting in with the Cavs rotation and they are looking to show the Bulls that their the better team.

Chicago’s victory was big. It was in CLEVELAND and the Cavs fell to 3-3 with the 86-85 loss on Nov. 5.

Since that loss; however, the Cavs have been showing their process of molding – with Shaq in the middle.

With Shaq, the Cavs allowed 92.1 points per game. Without him, they allowed 99-points per game.

The Bulls are not having the same improvements as the Cavs. They just came off a 5-game losing streak.

The Bulls' win at Cleveland was just their 3rd victory there over the last 12-visits, it was also one of their 2-vitories on the road this season!

Let’s see if Cleveland can show Chicago their improvements!

Cavs Thump No Good Suns

The Phoenix Suns came to pay their “good” friend Shaquille O'Neal a visit at his new home. It wasn’t a pleasant appointment for the Suns. Cleveland trampled the NBA’s “so called” best scoring team and easily handed them their 2nd straight blow-out!

Shaq scored 12-points, LeBron flirted with a triple-double and the Cavs climbed up by as many as 30-points to dismantle Shaq's old squad with a 107-90 win over the Phoenix Suns. The score might not seem too bad, but trust me – it got ugly for the Suns.

Shaq pulled down 9-boards in just about 20-minutes. BIG Z poured in14-points and he also set the new franchise record for games played in a Cavs suit.

LeBron had just 12-points, 10-assists, 8-rebounds and a chase-down block. The Cavs had seven other players in double figures – the others missed the double figure mark by at least 2-points.

Mr. Fast Nash had 14-points but just 5-assists and 6-turnovers? That’s not the Nash that I know. The Suns also scored season-low 90-points, due to the Cavaliers’ traditional defense.

The Cavs answered every solution that the Suns had. The closet they got was 12-points and by then it was the 4th quarter so no worries.

The Suns had just 29 points at half-time. The league’s highest scoring team must have been ill, because stats like that are an embarrassment!

Phoenix was first in the NBA (based on record) Every time they play the better teams, a win is the last thing they get.

Remain Consistent.
Remain Optimistic.

Big Z Sets New Record for Cavs!

After Mike Brown decided to bench Zydrunas Ilgauskas against the Mavericks Saturday, Z was not able to brake Danny Ferry's record, for most games played in a Cavalier uniform.

Mike Brown thought that the Victory was more importnt than the record. He left Z on the bench, basically embarrasing him since Big Z had family and friends in the Crowd. It's really sad and the center was affected by it. He skipped the Media and was the FIRST person to leave the Cavs locker room following their victory over the Mavs.

Now, Ilgauskas is not the best play

er or center, but his career is so significant. It was nearly ended a couple of times due to severe foot injuries. Still, he bounced back and played in his 724th game Vs. the Phoenix Suns on December 2nd 2009!

The sellout crowd gave a standing ovation to the 7"3 center, when he entered late in the 1st quarter. He does not only lead in games played - Z also is the team’s career leader in rebounds and blocks.

If Big Z can retire with the Cavs and a Championship ring, his career might lead to the retirement of his Jersey, he is worth it.

Cavaliers Vs. Suns Preview

The Cavliers are still trying to create a line-up rotation that is suitable for them, but on the other hand, the Phoenix Suns have glued their line-up. They jumped out to a wonderful start without Shaq in the middle. Shockingly, the Cavs did not!

Twenty-four hours after getting pounded by the Knicks the Suns are playing their 2nd game of a back-to-back road trip. Phoenix gets its first look at O'Neal in his new Cavalier uniform.

In the pass, Cleveland (12-5) was close to a deal for O'Neal near the league's February trade deadline but couldn't match terms with Phoenix (14-4), causing them to fall short of grabbing the legendary Center.

In the past off-season, the Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry acquired O'Neal for Ben Wallace, Sasha Pavlovic and a second-round draft pick, giving the team a strong inside presence and sending 2-time all-star center Ilgauskas to the bench.

Phoenix has blossomed without O'Neal. Shaq allegedly slowed down the Suns high-speed tempo. Now they are averaging an NBA-best 111.3 points and a ton of assist.

Shaq is averaging 11.1 points in 11-games with the Cavaliers. With Ilgauskas starting some games this season for an injured Shaq the Cavs averaged 102.0 points and went 5-1, with Shaq they are 7-4 and scoring 97.5 points per game!

This will be a pleasant environment for Cleveland. Big Z will break Danny Ferry's record of most games played. Ferry and Z are currently tied at 723-games.

The Suns have to contain Mo Williams if they want to win. He averaged 37-points against Phoenix last season in a 2-game sweep of the Suns. He also scored a career-high 44-points. When Mo drops over 20-points, the Cavs are 20-0 in the Quicken Loans Arena,

Let's see if Shaq can show the Suns that he is also better off without them!

Cavs Bounce Back & Crush Mavs!

After a DISGUSTING lost to the Charlotte Bobcats Friday night, the Cavaliers bounced back in just 24-hours - with a big victory over the Dallas Mavericks (111-95).

Although the season is young, this was the BEST game that the Cavaliers have played all season, and the box score and bench will gladly back me up!

Dallas is the NBA's second team in scoring and the Cavaliers kept them right in check allowing just 16 points in the 4th quarter.

Let's start with Mo Williams! 7 of 7 3-point attempts for 25 points? Yeah this was his best game of the young season - he also tied his career high of 3-pointers made in a contest.

LeBron James, reigning Eastern Conference Player of the week doubled up with 25-points and 12-assist. Good way to bounce back after his worst performance of the season Vs. the Bobcats last night.

Anderson Varejao had a season high 15-points on 7/7 shooting. 100-percent shooting from the floor for Varejao and 13 of his points were in the second half. He also flirted with a double double (9-rebounds).

Delonte West! Whatever the problems are with him - they seem to be slowly dissolving. After playing just 2-rusty minutes against the Bobcats he bounced back and doubled up with 10 points and 10 assist - his best game of the season.

The Cavs’ ball movement was amazing, resulting to a load of 3-pointer. They made 9 of 13 (69-percent).

The bench is the big story tonight, coming up with 40-bench points! Something that does not usually happen for this club.

As a team they were comfortable, shooting 68-percent from the field, scored a season-high 68-points, and handed out 23-assist - all at the half.

LeBron was part of the reason for the great ball movement with 8-assists in the first quarter to put the Mavs under (35-26).

If the Cavs keep up this remarkable execution, they will look to cruise back to the top and seal home-court advantage for the playoffs.

Next Game Vs. The Phoenix Suns @ The Quicken Loans Arena!

Remain Consistent.
Remain Optimistic.

Eastern Conference Player of the Week!

LeBron James was named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Week, which features. 4-games played between Monday, November 16th and Sunday, November 22nd.

In the hectic 4-games LeBron averaged an NBA-best 34-points on .58-percent shooting, 5-rebounds, 9-assists and 1-steal in 37-minutes per game.

Spectacular, he should get player of the year award. (Again - since he already got that last season, MVP). LeBron was the only Eastern Conference player to score 30 or more points and his great performance gave the Cavs a 3-1 record during their 4-games-5-nights schedule.

This is ONLY his 21st time wining the award.

I think his best two games were against Golden State and Indiana.

LeBron doubled up with 31-points and 12-assists in the win over the Golden State.

The King finished with a season high 40-points, including 72-percent from the field in the first half. He pulled down 9-boards and dished out 7-assist in their victory over the Pacers.

Cavs 4th Quarter Defense Beat 76ers (97-91)

The Cleveland Cavaliers' defense in the 4th quarter has been tough in the past two victories. Previously, they were allowing over 22-points. Now, the Cavs are allowing about 12-points in the 4th! That's why they were the league's defensive team and won 66-games a year ago.

They had to show the new guys, look this is what we are about, this is our identity. The new players are now learning their defensive role for the Cavaliers.

LeBron James finished with 32-points 9-assists and 7-boards. He made 13 of 20 shots.

The Cavs (10-4) were struggling after 3-quarters. The 76ers could have won, but there is one reason why they didn't! LeBron James was making his way back to the floor! After James returned the Cavs started an 8-0 run. By then it was already over for the 76ers.

They shot just 17-percent from the floor 4/23 in the 4th quarter.

All together, Cleveland outscored their last two opponents 50-23 in the 4th quarter. The 76ers got a taste of defense - outscored 22-10.

Mo Williams had 18-points 8-rebounds 5-assists and 3-steals.

Great job by the Cavs, they head to Detroit to take on the Pistons, who have lost 5-straight on a brutal road trip.

No Time For Injuries!

The Cavaliers are in a position where they might still lack the interior force of Shaq for the next couple of games with his strained shoulder.

I don't think this is a minor strain - although that is the name it has received. Shaq has been out for 3-games straight and the Cavs are basically having a rebound war.

Mike Brown stated that Shaq can possibly be out for the reaminder of the week, including Saturday's game Vs. The 76ers (at home).

For the Cavs - Shaq is playing 23 minutes per game and he is averaging 11.3 points and 6.8 rebounds.

BOTH BIG rebounders for the Cavs are out! Andy Varejao is suffering from a bruised hip and did not play two games straight.

LeBron James shockingly might also be on that list for injuries. He injured his wrist with his 2nd to last dunk Vs. the Wizards. It's obvious that he was fustrated after receiving a Tech and the results might not be admirable.

Following the game he iced his wrist! We'll see if he plays friday Vs. the Pacers.

Cavs Cooled By Wizards in 108-91 loss

The Cavaliers had their pretty good 5-game winning streak snapped by the inconsistent Washington Wizards.

I have no idea what it is about the Wizards, but somehow they know just how to beat Cleveland in tight situations - especially in Washington.

Antawn Jamison (someone who isn't even that great of a player) was able to score 31 points on a team that is famous for defense. I was very upset to see them play so tired.

LeBron James finished with 34-points and nine assists and for some reason he scored only six points in the fourth quarter. Besides LeBron, not a single person had more than ten points for the short-handed Cavs - that are missing Varejao and Shaq.

LeBron had a very rough 4th quarter. He didn't score much and he also was slapped with a Tech for basically screaming at the ref.

Jamario Moon who also suffered an injury with a sprained ankle, came through and played tonight. He finished with 10 points and 5-rebounds. J.J Hickson played a quiet game after having some previous amazing games. Foul trouble kept him off the floor.

Other than that, the Cavaliers did not do a bad job showing everyone that they were missing some big pieces of their rotation.

Remain Consistent
Remain Optimistic

Small Notes

The Cavs are preparing for another tough week, featuring 4 games smashed into five nights. The insane schedule begins Tuesday when the Golden State Warriors travel to the Quicken Loans Arena.

Now looking like championship contenders, the Cavaliers won 7 of the last eight contest and when the Cavs break 100 points - they are 6-0.

Cleveland came into Saturday’s contest Vs. the Jazz as the league's leaders in three-point shooting at 46-percent (lead by Anthony Parker).

Shaq-less Cavs Beat Jazz

The Cavaliers played a poor game overall without Shaq and Delonte West in the rotation. On the other hand, the Jazz played well - still they didn't have enough horsepower to snap the Cavs' 4-game winning streak.

After wrapping back to back games against Florida’s powerhouses, the Cavs returned home and defeated the Jazz. Former Cavalier Carlos Boozer, gave the Jazz their first lead late in the first quarter. At that point I was nervous, however LeBron found Anthony Parker and he laced a 3-pointer.

LeBron played a bad game but somehow in the 4th quuarter he woke out and scored the last 8-points of the game including an and-1 that pretty much disposed of the Jazz.

Big Z got his first start of the season and joined the starters in double-figures with 10 points, six boards and a block.

The Cavs were led by LeBron and Mo. Both had 21 points apiece. The Cavs improve to 10-3 against the Jazz.

But wait, don't look to far from LeBron. Right beneath him was J.J. Hickson, who added a new career-high 20 points!

Anthony Parker was 4/6 from downtown for 14 points. Jamario Moon had double figures with 11 points off the bench.

Ever since his starting job J.J. Hickson is averaging 13.3 points on 59-percent shooting.

After his terrific shooting shooting night Parker leads the Cavs in 3-point shooting and is ranked 4th overall in the NBA.

Shaq Suffers From Minor Shoulder Strain

Shaq will not be in the Cavaliers’ lineup against the Utah Jazz because of a strained shoulder.

Shaq has started the first nine games of the season and is averaging 11.3 points and 6.8 rebounds.

Big Z will be starting at center for Shaq.

The on going saga continues with Delonte West inactive. No further updates on him!

Cavs Vs. Jazz

The Utah Jazz(4-5) has announced that their star player Williams has left the team for personal reason. If he doesn't play tonight Vs. the Cavaliers then they should just automatically minus his 20-points and 9.9 assists.

Not only are they missing their star player, but injuries have also ripped this team.

The Jazz haven't won in Cleveland since 2004. It's obvious as to why they constantly lose - Williams only averages 11.0 points in the Quicken Loans Arena.

Cleveland(6-3), returns back home after an impressive 3-game sweep on the road.

The out of control LeBron James is averaging 34.3 points in the last three contest.

Also the Cavs are averaging 104.3 points in the last three games and shooting an NBA's best 46-percent from 3-point range.

All together, the Cavs have won 10/13 against the Jazz and LeBron is averaging 37 points in the last 3-games against them!

LeBron to No. 6

After this highly anticipated season LeBron James will NO LONGER be Mr. 23 - he is switching over to the number 6.

LeBron has worn number 6 as his practice jersey and throughout the Olympics.

The No. 6 is weird but I like the idea. It's more original for when retires, considering that Michael Jordan has done so much with that number!

23 was suitable for when LeBron was in High School but now this gives him his own image as he continues to dominate the NBA and enter his prime.

LeBron also stated in a post game interview that he urges other players to also retire 23 as a tribute to Michael Jordan.

Cavs Cool the Heat in 111-104 Victory

Miami was so close to grabbing a franchise’s first with a 7-1 start to the season – too bad the Cavaliers (6-3) objected to that start and pounded the Miami Heat down to a 6-2 start.

From start to finish I knew the Cavs were going to win this game, each and every time people doubt them they just find some way to execute and finish miraculously.

At one point the Heat’s arena was rumbling when Varejao got slammed on by Wade. From then on it was a wake-up call for Cleveland and they got right into the game.

Even with their motivated attitudes the Cavs and Heat had a very rough first half whipping up a bunch of fouls and the Cavs only had a very slim lead. Still, I was highly confident that they were going to come out and perform down the stretch.

Execution is all LeBron did with a bunch of power dunks all over Miami’s front-court. He finished with 34-points 7-assist and drilled the free-throw line shooting 16-18. Perhaps he was getting some revenge, since Varejao took a really hard hit early in the game by Wade?

LeBron wasn’t the only factor in tonight’s victory. J.J. Hickson scored a career high of 18-points on 7-9 shooting. He’s really doing an outstanding job filling in for Varejao’s sad play at the starting PF position.

Moon was very bright tonight as well. His defensive task for portions of the game was Wade and he did an admirable job – finishing with 8-points on 4-5 shooting!

The Cavs had a great shooting night, but Mo Williams shines above all. For the second straight night he was a monster. He had 25-points with 5-7 3-point shooting. Back-to-back nights? Mo has to be trying to send a message. 2nd time all-star maybe?

The Shaq attack continues to work in positive ways. He had 14-points tonight and made 6 out of 10 free-throws!

Ilguaskas continues to struggle from the field going 0-3. Despite his inconsistency the Cavs still managed to execute on BOTH ends of the floor.

After Tonight's Victory, the Cavs are ranked No.1 for their amazing 3-point shooting of .467%. Last year the club was just 33-percent.

Cleveland brings it back home this Saturday to take on the Utah Jazz.

Cavs Vs. Heat

Both the Miami Heat(6-1) and the Cleveland Cavaliers(5-3) got off to similar starts. Both shocking, but shocking for two different reasons. Miami's 6-1 matches a franchise's first and the Cavs' 5-3 is the results of the LeBron/Shaq combo.

Both teams play each other this Thursday and as usual the other team is more excited, despite the fact that it is just their 8th game.

The Miami Heat's players are viewing this game as a test - looking to get off to a 7-1 start, which is a feat that has never been accomplished by any Heat team.

The Cavs are considered championship contenders, while the Heat are considered 1st round contenders.

So I ask - will the Cavs snap the Heat's excellent start while continuing their rocky start?

Cavs Rip Magic

During their last meeting with the Orlando Magic the Cavaliers, were basically thinking about their offseason. Now, during the first meeting of this season, the Cavs toyed with the Magic from start to finish in a 102-93 victory - sending an early message in the Eastern Conference.

Right away the Cavs jumped on the Magic and started feeding them their new and improved offense. The Shaq attack has been proven positive as Howard went to the bench with 2-fouls in less than 4-minutes!

Mo Williams! After literally choking on his guaranteed win from last year he took out all his emotions on the Magic. He shot 9-9 from the field (with 4 being 3-pointers) and finished the first half with 22-points!

LBJ scored 23-points right next to his loyal point guard and together both made sure the Cavs started the 2nd half with a 20-point lead.

The famous for 3-point shooting Orlando squad only shot 22-percent while the Cavs easily shot 71-percent from 3-pt range. They also killed the Magic on the boards. Their Not so magical.

This victory means so much to me, considering that the media kept stating that the Cavs cannot beat the Magic especially at home! It was obvious that the Cavs had this game and they improve to a 5-3 record.

Cleveland led by 25-points at one point. They knew they had this game wrapped up and didn't continue playing as hard, which was their only mistake.

Call it what you what. A win is a win and the offseason is the underlying reason why the Cavs won this game.

Shaq finished with 10-points, all of which he scored on Dwight. Looks like everyone can stop saying that the Shaq/LeBron combo will not work because tonight it was in full effect!

As usual the Cavs could not contain LeBron - he finished with a season high of 36-points on 56-percent shooting and he also pulled down 8-rebounds.

Mo Williams also had a season high of 28-points on 68-percent shooting! I think now he can make all the guarantees he wants to. Cavs meet Orlando again, Feb/15 in Cleveland!

Cleveland Vs. Orlando

Tonight might be the Cavaliers only test, considering that the Cavs are returning to the scene of hate, disgust and many unsaid feelings.

Last year, in hot steamy Florida is where the Cavaliers’ so serious, "ONE GOAL" came to an end in just 6-games by the Orlando Magic.

Since then, the Cavs added Shaq for Howard and the Magic added Vince Carter for just another star - I guess.

The Cavs cannot come into tonight's game and say it's just another game, because it is not. This is where we see if the Shaq acquisition is working or failing!

If everything goes right. Will tonight's victory erase anything from last year? NO - Not the Least Bit!

The Cavs MUST get off to a roaring start, win this game and the next 3 against Orlando in the regular season.

Win this game, everyone (including Charles Barkley) will shut up!

Lose..and the Shaq attack is just another failed operation for Cleveland. It's down to the wire.

LeBron Sets the Garden On Fire

LeBron scored 33-points in his lone visit to the Garden, leading the Cavs to a 100-91 win over the Knicks.

Seeing LeBron light up the Garden wasn't the best part of my night. Me just being 2nd row at the game was simply AMAZING!

King James also threw in 9-assists and 8-rebounds. Even though I'm pretty sure LeBron doesn't care about Kobe's stats - he fell short of passing Kobe's record at MSG by .1 of a point.

Only two other Cavaliers scored double figures. Mo Williams had 12 and the consistent Gibson had 11.

Both Varejao and Ilgauskas murdered the Knicks on the boards. Varejao grabbed 14-rebounds with 4 being offense and Big Z grabbed 11 with 5 being offensive. Both big-men were close to doubling up, but missed some points.

The production of the bench was great again - scoring 35-points and using lots of minutes.

At one point five familar faces ended up on the floor Delonte, Mo, Ilgauskas, LeBron and Andy. At that point the Cavs ripped themselves away from the lack luster Knicks.

The Cavaliers looked like championship contenders holding the Knicks to 44-percent field goal - while they shot 53-percent from the floor.

My fellow New Yorkers are basically dying for LeBron to pack his things and flee to the Garden once this season is over. Throughout the entire building there were people with "LeBron James 23 Knicks Jerseys!" However the Knicks looked horrible on the court and they offer nothing that would make him want to leave his home-town. The Knicks start off the season 1-5.

LeBron alone almost out-scored the entire Knick team in the first quarter...please tell me why he will consider that switch?

Something else that had me wondering was Hickson. For some odd reason, he made his first start of the season at power forward, with Varejao coming off the bench for the first time. But Why?

The Cavs Better Gear-up. They Play Orlando Next Week!

Cavs Vs. Knicks

Last year when the Cleveland Cavaliers played the NY Knicks LeBron James had perhaps his most spectacular game of the season.

LeBron almost recored a 52-point triple double; however, a rebound was actually taken away from him. (In my eyes it is still a triple double).

The Cavs swept the NY Knicks last year in the regular season taking all 4.

Tonight the Cavaliers head to the Garden for their only time this season and LeBron looks to put on another fantastic show.

THIS WILL BE AN AMAZING MOMENT (I'M GOING TO BE SEATED FRONT ROW AT THE GAME TONIGHT IN MSG).

Cavs Drop Another At Home to Bulls

The season is young and already the Cavs have matched last years home losses.

Cleveland (3-3) played a poor game and honestly, perhaps they deserved this lost. To start the game their field goals were just horrific.

Varejao gave the Cavs an early spark, a bunch of offensive rebounds and energy, but for some reason they just couldn't get into it.

Watching the game wasn't so much fun, the pace was extremely slow and the points were very low. The final score was 85-86. That just says poor defense (for the Cavs).

LeBron gave everyone two injury scares. First, he landed on his ankle coming off a platform. Then (like a real team player) he dived into the fans and was out holding his hip for about 6-minutes.

The Cavs have been having success with their bench but last night was atrocious. Gibson played well (the usual) but then the rest of the squad was 1-15 FG!! Are you kidding me, and that's at home?

As always the pick-and-roll killed them and finally someone got some type of sense to form a smaller line-up. It worked, but by then it was too late. Against faster teams (like the Bulls) the Ilguaskas and Shaq combination doesn't work!

With 4-seconds remaining in the 4th quarter LeBron charged to the basket and he was hacked; however, no foul was called (even though Noah had his entire arm in LeBron's face) and the Cavs sunk their 2nd game at home to the Chicago Bulls.

The Bulls won 3 out of the last 12 in the Quicken Loans Arena.

Bring on NY!

Mini Preveiw Cavs Vs. Bulls

After his most spectacular game with Cleveland - Shaq looks to help the Cavs win their 4th straight game tonight Vs. The Chicago Bulls (@ the Q).

Shaq got off to an atrocious start, averaging 9-Pts on 47.2 percent shooting and 8.5-Rbs in his first 4-games. Shaq looked amazing in Tuesday's victory over the Wizards.

LeBron had no trouble scoring against Chicago last season, with two 40-point games and the Cavs went 3-1 against the Bulls.

Shaq on the other hand, had 18 points and eight rebounds in his only game against the Bulls last season.

Chicago (2-2) will enter the Q tonight, with momentum from a come-back 83-81 victory against Milwaukee on Tuesday.

The Bulls look to put an end to their losing streak on the road.

As we all know the Cavs went 41-3 at home last season and they won nine of the last 11 contest with the Bulls at The Q.

Shaq Pushes Cavs Over Wizards

The way that the Cavs handled the Wizards tonight should not have the title “Rivalry.” Instead it should be something like “Master and Apprentice!” Like any real teachers, the Cavs showed the Wizards how to be clutch - by overcoming an 18-point deficit in the 1st quarter.

It looked bad at first. However, the Cavs knew they had to beat this substandard team. They played well overall, but Shaq gets all the applause tonight!

O’Neal had a season high of 21-points and most shockingly, he made 7/10 free-throws. YES! Shaq posted 70-percent shooting at the stripe and 7/9 FG. At this point the Cavs new their main goal was to dispose of the trash (The Wizards).

Shaq wasn’t the only star on the floor. Boobie Gibson produced 4/5 three point shooting! His partner Mo did a great job also, both hitting a bunch of 3s in the 4th quarter to sink this team. Together they were 7/9 from downtown.

To add to Gibson’s spectacular game he also played superb defense, drawing 3-offensive fouls. He really needs to get more credit, especially coming off the bench.

The Cavs bench tonight did pretty well, scoring 24-points. I guess they needed that extra spark to make up for Anthony Parker’s sloppy game. Besides Parker, everyone else did exceptional against their unworthy “rivals.”

Even with LeBron resting on the bench, the Cavs peeled their lead to 14-points. In the end, it was a 30-point flip. Who said they couldn’t handle themselves?

Delonte West wasn’t very effective on scoring but his defense was great, as usual.

He finished with 4-points and 2-steals. Varejao played great defense as well. He doubled up with 10-pts, 10-boards and gave the Cavs 4-offensive boards, which turned into 2nd chance points.

The Shaq attack is finally working. They found a way to squeeze The Big Diesel into their offense. He had Washington’s entire front-line in foul trouble and he was just basically unstoppable.

Bring on Chicago.

Cavs Vs. Wizards Continue!

The Cavs may try to hide it, but they hate the Wizards and of course the Wizards hate them. The Wizards are not worthy contenders to say that it’s “beef” with the Cavs but whatever it just makes things more interesting.

Aside from the teams hating each other, I hate them too and so does the fans at the Quicken Loans Arena. They boo them for just about half of the game. And when the techs and the hard fouls begin, the crowd really gets fired up. All the better!

The rivalry started once upon a time when the Cavs beat the Wizards in the playoffs 3 consecutive years. ’06-’08.

It got so bad even rappers, Jay-z and Soulja Boy continued the feud in their lyrics! Wow, maybe it’s deeper than I thought. I thought it was very hilarious that DeShawn of the Wizards, received an “I Hate You,” from a Cleveland Flight Attendant.

Tonight (Nov 3rd 2009) the rivalry continues! It will be a tough game, the Cavs KNOW they have to beat this team. They might try to make this game into nothing, but they all know how serious it is to beat this team.

An unknown player named DeShawn on the Wizards, believes it is a "feud." Based on sources he seems to be bit of a talker! Tonight… I hope he brings his A-game.

“Bleeding Wine.”
“Craving Gold.”

Now it's Just LeBron Vs. Kobe!

When LeBron first stepped into the League the Cavs had a horrible team – below 20-wins. During LeBron's 3-rd year they finally made the playoffs, thanks to LeBron.


Every season and postseason was an excellent season for LeBron – hands down, no arguments about that. I hate to pull the Stat card but that’s what it has come down to.

Yes, they were beat in the Eastern Conference finals and Lakers beat that same team easily (The Magic) but as I said before the Lakers are a better team theN Cleveland and everyone knows that. The records obviously don’t prove anything, which is why stats do not always work but the Lakers beat the Cavs twice in the regular season last year, not just Kobe.

I give it to the Lakers yes they are a better team, but from jump Cleveland has always been a one man show! You put any of those players on different teams and they are not so talented. LBJ’s presence alone makes them strong, there nothing without him and sometimes it isn’t hard to tell!

The Magic exposed the Cavs as a whole. Nothing was said about LeBron, if anything he got more credit. His team was shut down. He couldn’t do it alone: 40-Pts, 8-Rbs and 8-Ast? No one is NBA HISTORY has ever produced those numbers EVER! It was the best playoff series! How dare you say LBJ is not clutch?

The year that they were swept: The Eastern Conference was 50-times weaker than it is today. Those same Spurs were also too much for Kobe’s Lakers. Kobe did all of this but yet it took him until he was 29-years old to get MVP!

You say Kobe finished second in MVP votes? Kind of true LeBron had so many votes he was 1st and 2nd. Therefore, Kobe was more like 3rd.

Any stat will show you that LeBron is a slightly better 3-point shooter than Kobe! LeBron uses strength, moves and speed to beat you, he is beyond versatile!

True, Kobe has all those awards, but he has so many years over LeBron. When LeBron reaches that age he will either have the same amount or more awards. If they had the same amount of Pro-years than yes, otherwise NO!

I agree it is unfair to compare them. You can believe Kobe will always have it. However, once LeBron is Kobe’s age, statistics won’t be the only thing that proves who is better!

Response to: http://thesportsissues.blogspot.com/2009/11/this-post-is-in-response-to-my-fellow.html#comments

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LeBron Vs. Kobe & Everybody!

LeBron James is the best player in the NBA. Matter of fact, he is the BEST player in NBA history and perhaps the most versatile as well.

The first thing everyone mentions is, "No Rings." But you do not get rings for a 1-on-1 contest, it is a team effort. In the long run, Kobe and other Championship winners (Jordan) always had a better team.

Consider, Kobe had Shaq. That is the only reason why the Lakers got three rings in the early 2000s. Shaq is the one who received all the MVP finals awards. Then it took Kobe years later to rebuild and still - he has the better team.

Lets take LeBron off the Cavs they decrease in terms of talent. Take Kobe off the Lakers - things don't look much different. 'Bron makes his team better, which is something Kobe has yet to learn.

Kobe is one dimensional. He could either be unselfish getting everyone involved by obtaining 7 assists and 12 points, or he can score 35 points and 1 assists. He just can't do both every night.

On the contrary, LeBron can score 40 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds in one game, statistics you will NEVER see next to Kobe's name. Numbers don't lie!

As we all know, LeBron is the youngest player in NBA history to score 30-pts, 40-pts and 50-pts in a contest. Surpassing just about everybody.

He joined the legendary Oscar Robertson and Jordan to have 20-pts, 5-rbs and 5-ast in their rookie season. However he was younger, therefore he surpasses them as well!

'Bron is the 2nd youngest player in NBA HISTORY to get the MVP award. Kobe on the other hand, had to wait until he was about 29-yrs old - to be proven valuable.

The King is more dominant that both Kobe and Jordan when they were his age.

He gets it done on both ends of the floor. His killer defense, offense and passing abilities. Compared to most players - LeBron is very unselfish.

He will always make sure his teammates get their shot off first. Kobe is not the type to give his teammates the ball, especially if they are losing in the 4th quarter. A great player always has faith in their teammates. Something both Kobe and Jordan lacked!

Statistics do not prove everything, but if you want to use them, LeBron easily slaughters Kobe.

Don't even use Kobe scoring ridiculous numbers (81). Any idiot can do that. It's like what about your team? How can you call yourself a team player if you are scoring 81-pts? Getting everyone involved increases basketball IQ - clearly Kobe thinks of himself first.

LeBron is inconsistent, only because each year he improves. His shot has gotten incredible and his free-throw shooting is peaking the 80-percent range.

Lastly, what makes LeBron so valuable is the fact that he can play positions 1-4 and dominate. He's most deadly at PF, although he is a starting SF.

As I said before he is an all around player, there's nothing he cannot do. Put LeBron on the teams that both Jordan and Kobe had and he has a bunch of rings just like them.

Sooner or later everyone will see what I'm talking about.

Where Do We Point Fingers?

Pressure is just pounding the Cleveland Cavaliers, considering that the media is trying to find reasons why LeBron would want to leave at the end of the season. However, it is just impossible to determined over a few days, when the season is about 7-months long.

Although it is a long way from now before the season reaches it's climax, there are still some things that should be picked at. It is evident that the Club wasn't ready to play on opening night. Besides, no one expected them to be running smoothly. But still, I just feel that they should've been at a higher point.

Many people can take the blame as to why the Cavs jumped out of the gate so slow. "Coach" Brown could not fix two MAJOR problems, the Delonte West thingy and the flu bug that was a major disruption in the teams' practice sessions. Those things are the main reasons why Cleveland came to such a slow start.

For the things that Brown could've controled they need to be adressed. During the preseason I don't ever remember seeing Shaq and Z play at the same time, but they played together in the home opener.

There was not a single star playing in the 4th quarter of the Cavs preseason game against the Celtics. Shocking right, considering that Brown knew who his team was going to play on opening night!

He should've took advantage seeing that the Cavs open with 4-games in 5-nights. That only means one day for a solid practice session.

Brown and the Cavs admitted that they were uncomfortable and unprepared before the official season even started. I guess we can commend them on being able to admit their lack of practice together.

But still after the Cavs played the Celtics in the preason game, they had 5-full days to practice. He did not take advantage once again, instead he gave them two days off, while the Celtics practiced. Obviously, his idea to rest the team rather than practice - backfired on him.

Above all, these mistakes are not too important, since the Cavs need to be in check in March and not so much October, when most of the teams are still climbing over their own personal issues. Imagine if the Cavs grab the Championship, all of the early mistakes will be forgotten.

"Coach" Brown's decision to start sloppy might not hurt the team. The first two games are not important when compared to the last two games of the entire season.

Even with the educated excuses, the Cavs took no advantages of the preseason and they certainly paid for it in the long run.