NBA 2k11: LA Clippers

[Johnny93g]

NBA 2k11 is addictive. I've been playing a franchise with the LA Clippers. 31 games in and i want to get more immersed. So that means dynasty time. I want to also try to take advantage of the highlights and press shots. Should be a nice touch. Any, I'll introduce the team, go over the previous scores, trades and news from the league. Then we'll get this thing going. I hope i don't lose interest.

#3 Al-Farouq Aminu- He's a 20 year old rookie out of Wake Forest. 8th pick in the 2010 draft. Looks to be a ideal for the small forward position. He's got size at 6'9, but seems raw.

#12 Eric Bledsoe- Also a 20 year old rookie out of Kentucky. PG who needs to be groomed. He'll be the backup. Small, thin, but lightning quick.

#45 Rasual Butler- Veteran swingman who scored 11ppg last season. Not sure he was a role this year. In the last year of his contract.

#31 Jarron Collins- Pure roster filler. He's rated worse then many free agents and D-leaguers.

#34 Brian Cook- Big man who can shoot. When he's in the game, he should open up some room. I like big men like this. He fits the mold of player I would want on my team.

#5 Baron Davis- Starting PG, former superstar, who isn't at that level anymore. He's still pretty good, and we will be relying on him to stay healthy and come up big late in games.

#4 Randy Foye- Will probably play SG more then PG, as im looking to develop Bledsoe. He's a vet, he can score, but he's got a weird release which I haven't mastered(obviously, not a good thing)

#15 Ryan Gomes- Our starting SF, Gomes will be a do everything guy. We need mistake free ball from him. Has a nice skill set, can finish in traffic.

#10 Eric Gordon- The franchise part 1. He's the leader, he's the scorer. He can score in multiple ways, and will need to. Only 21 years old.

#32 Blake Griffin- The Franchise part 2. He has superstar potential. Missed all of 09/10 because of a broken kneecap. One of the favorites to win ROY.

#9 Deandre Jordan- Raw bigman, more nice potential, but he can be a liability. Horrible foul shooter needs to become more refined. Entering his 3rd season, needs to step up soon.

#35 Chris Kaman- Coming off an all-star caliber season. I expect him to dominate as teams are forced to worry about Blake Griffin. Atleast i hope he will dominate.

#1 Craig Smith- Former BC product. Rugged, but undersized PF. A role player in every sense of the word

#13 Willie Warren- A scoring D-league player.

I'm playing 11 minute quarters, sliders have been adjusted throughout the season to produce the most realistic results. I want it to be challenging. I like realism. I wont try to rip off the computer in trades. Hopefully this will add to the immersion factor.

[Johnny93g]

A Season in Review: October/November/December

The Clippers season opened up October 27th, hosting the Trail-Blazers. It took all of 30 seconds before disaster struck(what did you expect, this is a Clippers dynasty.) Chris Kaman drove the lane, and was fouled hard. He took himself out of the game. Kaman suffered a broken wrist and would be lost for 4-6 weeks. Portland also beat LA 104-94. Not the best way to start the season

Losses to Golden State and Dallas followed, and the Clippers finished October 0-3. Deandre Jordan was moved into the starting 5 and did well. Averaging about 9ppg, 9rpg. The only positive from October.

Following the loss to Dallas, LA sent Willie Warren down to the Bakersfield Jam of the d-league.

November started much better. LA edged the the Kings, and defeated Oklahoma City to climb within 1 game of .500. Still very early, 500 is a goal of mind considering, you know, it's the Clippers. 3 losses in the next 4 games sent the Clippers back to earth. Baron Davis was struggling with his shot, shooting just 34%. Blake Griffin on the other hand, was thriving. He recored 23 and 11 in a upset in over Utah and had a big 27 and 14 performance in a loss to the Hornets.

LA finished the month of November better then .500, but 8-10 overall. Very promising indeed. Eric Bledsoe had established himself as the backup to Baron Davis. His speed has proving hard to contain. Deandre Jordan was doing a admirable job replacing Kaman. Eric Gordon was averaging 23 ppg, and Blake Griffin was awarded Rookie of the Month.

Chris Kaman returned Dec 2nd, and sparked the Clippers to a 91-84 win over San Antonio. The Clippers were healthy again. That lasted about 9 minutes. Late in the 1st, Ryan Gomes sprained his ankle severely. It was enough to sideline him for 2 weeks. Rookie Al Aminu would replace him in the starting lineup.

Injuries aside, LA was playing well. They were the flavour of the month in NBA circles. Wins over Denver, Orlando, and Houston highlighted an 12 games span which saw 8 wins. December also saw the the trade winds start blowing around the league

Dec 5:
Milwaukee trades Cory Maggette and Drew Gooden to Denver for Kenyon Martin and Renaldo Balkman.
The Bucks were in 1st place in the east, and i guess were trying to puck up an scorer down low. John Salmons has been carrying them.

Dec 7:
Philly trades Marreese Speight and Andres Nocioni to the Lakers for Derek Fisher and Sasha Vujacic
Steve Blake becomes the starting PG in LA.

December 22: Detroit sends Tracy McGrady and Jason Maxiel to Chicago for Ronnie Brewer and Kurt Thomas.
Detroit is in the basement in the east, Bulls are challenging. I don't think McGrady will help them but Maxiel should.

Dec 23: OKC trades Serge Ibaka to Indiana for James Posey and Dahntay Jones
Weird move as i heard lots of good things about Ibaka. Thunder obviously looking for a veteran presence.

Back in Clippers land, Rasual Butler wasn't very happy. He had played sparingly in 15 or so games, and only had mop up duty. Earlier in the month, whenEric Gordon missed a game, Butler wasn't able to get off the bench. He wanted out. I had been looking for a deal that fit for a while now. Butler is rated decent enough. He can play, should play. My rotation just didn't allow for it. I was lots of intriguing names bandied about, but nothing i thought was realistic or fit my needs. As it turned out, Phoenix held the answer, and on Dec 18th, the trade went down.

Dec 18th:
LA Clippers send Rasoul Butler, Jarron Collins, and a '12 2nd round pick to Phoenix for Channing Frye.

Frye was unhappy in Phoenix and was causing problems. They offered me Frye in a different deal. I contemplated it for a few days, decided to counter, and it worked out. I don't know why Frye was upset, as we was playing lots of minutes, and scoring, but he wanted out.

He can be volatile, he can be lazy, and he is a weak defender, but i love his scoring and his shooting range. He won't start, which may be a problem, but i see him playing alot of minutes at PF, C and even SF. I think we upgraded here.

Now, this is a Clippers franchise. So it shouldn't surprise you to learn that late in the first half of his Clippers debut, Channing Frye broke his wrist. Thats right, about 10 minutes of playing time, and he's out 4-6 weeks. Ryan Gomes came back the next game. So we have been completely healthy about 9 minutes this season!!!

So it's December 27th. We just lost 106-87 to Phoenix who were without injured PG Steve Nash. We are 16-15, good for 7th place in the west.

The real fun starts now. I guess i need to sign up on the 2k sports site and figure out how to save highlights and pictures, but that shouldn't be too hard.

[Johnny93g]

December 27, 2010

Game 32

(16-15) at (9-18)

We came into this game confident. We already beat Sacramento twice this season, including a 130-100 spanking 2 weeks ago. Both those games were at Staples Center though.

Probably shouldn't have taken them lightly. For some reason, only our stats saved onto the 2k website, I'll right down the big performers for my opponents from now on. Carl Landry was player of the game and Tyreke Evans was unstoppable. The game was over after 10 minutes. I think we shot in the 30% area, while the Kings were well over 50%. They dominated.

[Johnny93g]

NBA Standings as of December 27, 2010

[Johnny93g]

LA Clippers stats as of December 27, 2010

*Minutes per game is obviously incorrect.
**RPG is Defensive rebounds per game.

[Balldog]

following! like the format a lot

[Johnny93g]

December 29, 2010

Game 33

(18-13)at (16-16)
Nov 6..95-92 Clippers win at Utah
Nov 28..110-100 Jazz win at LA

After the debacle in Sacramento, we needed to be ready for a tough Jazz team. Deron Williams was listed as day-to-day, but started. The Jazz started hot, building a 14 point lead halfway through the 2nd. I was forced to take our bench out of the game early, to get back in it. Blake Griffin spurred a nice run to close the Jazz lead to 3 by the end of the 1st half.

Utah, the 5th highest scoring team in the NBA hit a cold spell in the 3rd. Deron Williams was struggling with his shot, but his defense was amazing. He smothered Baron Davis to the point where i didn't even attempt a shot against Williams the rest of the game. LA held the lead for the majority of the 2nd half, but the Jazz tied the game on a Raja Bell 3 with 70 seconds remaining. Eric Gordon hit a driving layup on the next possession. Williams layup attempt hoped out of the hoop, foul shots followed and the Clippers held on to win.

Paul Milsap was a beast today. 21 points, 11 rebounds, 10/14 shooting. Deron Williams struggled from the field, but recorded 15 assists. Eric Gordon was player of the game.

Player of the game Eric Gordon putting down 2 of his game high 23. Gordon came up big, scoring the final 6 points for L.A.

[Johnny93g]

Dec 29- The Memphis Grizzlies announced the termination of head coach Lionel Hollins today. Hollins' Grizzlies stood at 12-20 this season, wlast place in the southwest division.

Hollins has coached the Grizzlies for parts of 5 seasons, dating back to Vancouver in 1999. He has a career record of 83-134.

The Grizzlies have hired Alex Hope was head coach. Pope was working in the Grizzles front office prior to today. He has no head coaching experience.

[Johnny93g]

Dec 31- The Houston Rockets and the Toronto Raptors decided not to take New Years off. The two teams got together and swung a 4 player trade today.

Reggie Evans Leandro Barbosa



Brad Miller Luis Scola

The Raptors pick up scoring big man Luis Scola and a backup center in Brad Miller. The Rockets add an energetic swingman Leandro Barbosa and rebounding specialist Reggie Evans.

I was interested in Reggie Evans earlier in the season, but decided to go with Channing Frye instead. Reggie is an elite rebounder. The Rockets obviously feel they need help in that area. Reggie`s contract expires after the season, while Barbosa, who will be leaned upon to replace Scola`s offense, has a player option for 7 million +.

Scola will team with Bargnani to form a versatile 1-2 scoring punch for the 8th place Raptors. Brad Miller gives them a legitimate center with experience off the bench.

[Johnny93g]

Jan 1- The NBA announced the players and rookies of the month for December

---
Lebron James Evan Turner


---
Kevin Durant Matt Janning

Lebron James of the Miami Heat and Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma City Thunder were named conference players of the month for December. The 76ers Evan Turner, and Phoenix Suns Matt Janning were awarded Rookie of the month. Congrats to the recipients.

[Johnny93g]

January 2, 2011

Game 34

(14-20)at (17-16)
First Meeting

The 2nd game of a 5 game homestand see's eastern conference opponent, the Atlanta Hawks into Staples Center. At 14-20, the season has been a big dissapointment, but the Hawks are hoping to bounce back with a strong 2nd half.

In one of the most lopsided performances of the season, the Clippers lost every possible aspect of this game. They were outplayed, out hustled, outsmarted, outcoached. Atlanta led from start to finish, never letting up. The Hawks outrebounded LA 63-42, which is embarrassing.

Jamal Crawford was named player of the game. An all around performance with 10 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists and 4 steals. Baron Davis was the only bright spot for LA, registering a triple double. 12/10/10.

The Hawks smothered Eric Bledsoe and the Clippers in their blowout win

[Johnny93g]

Jan 3- Lionel Hollins was unemployed for a less then a week. Last night, the Detroit Pistons fired head coach John Kuester. Through 33 games, the Pistons stand at 10-23, 14th place in the east.

Kuester compiled a 37-68 record with the Pistons

Lionel Hollins replaces Kuester just 6 days after being fired by Memphis. Detroit obviously has been interested in Hollins for some time.

New Pistons head coach Lionell Hollins

[Johnny93g]

Jan 3- The New York Knicks and the New Orleans Hornets swung a minor deal today.

Ronny Turiaf and a 2012 2nd round pick





Jason Smith DJ Mbenga

[Johnny93g]

January 5, 2011

Game 35

(16-17)at (17-17)
Nov 5..94-84 Nuggets win at Denver
Dec 3..101-96 Clippers win at Denver

The 3rd game of a 5 game homestand is an important one. It's still early, but Denver sits half a game behind us, in 9th place in the east. This season has been a struggle for the Nuggets. Both Nene and Ty Lawson are sidelined with injuries and will not dress for today's game.

Adding to Denver's injury woes, Chauncey Billups came up lame in an early layup attempt. He limped off the court only to return later, but he clearly was not at 100%. Backup PG Eric Bledsoe took full advantage of a hobbled Billups. Bledsoe used is speed to get to the net and set up opponents in his best effort of the season. 14 points, 8 assists in 24 minutes.

Carmelo Anthony did everything he could to help his shorthanded teammates pouring in 30, but Clipper's star Eric Gordon matched him shot for shot.

Eric Gordon was named player of the game, but it was Eric Bledsoe's performance which was key in the victory.

Carmelo Anthony spins towards the net in the Nuggets loss in LA

[Johnny93g]

Jan 8- Three deals have gone down within the last 3 days. None of them blockbusters, but two involving the Houston Rockets as they continue to remake their roster.

This deal took place on Jan 5-

--
Michael Conley Hamed Haddadi


--
Jared Jefferies Chase Budinger

This deal took place on Jan 8-

Shane Battier and a 2012 2nd round pick



Travis Outlaw and a 2012 1st round pick

And finally, this deal also took place on Jan 8-

Christian Eyenga



Josh Childress

[Johnny93g]

January 9, 2011

Game 36

(13-23)at (18-17)
Oct 29..106-104 Warriors win in Oakland

The 4th game of a 5 game homestand. We are 2-1 during it. I'm hoping to finish with a 4-1 homestand, but the Warriors gave me fits trying to guard them last time, and Miami visit's next. Won't be easy. Dorrell Wright will miss the game with a injured ankle.

The Warriors opened the game much like the last time we met. Making offense look easy. They moved the ball around and made 3's to strech the defense. I knew early our only chance in this one was Eric Gordon. The only reason we were close at halftime was EJ's clutch shots. Well, that might not be the only reason. Stephen Curry was held scoreless, so that helped.

Curry was not held scoreless in the 2nd half. 18 2nd half points combined with David Lee's 16 rebounds were enough to to top the Clippers and Eric Gordon's season high 36.

I tried to upload a highlight, but it did not seem to work, so no media for this game.

Up next: the Miami Heat

[Johnny93g]

January 12, 2011

Game 37

(24-16)at (18-18)
First Meeting

The Final game of our homestand, a loss, and we are under .500 for the season. That would be disappointing. Things don't look good as the Heat are in town, and they are tough to stop. I'm assuming James and Wade will be able to get the rim at will. We'll need a complete team effort to compete in this one.

We got a lucky break early as Zydrunas Ilgauskas suffered a calf injury. He left the game only to return 10 minutes later, obviously not 100%. James was on early. Wade was on late, but it was Eddie House who continually sank dagger's in to our heart. Despite hanging around, and playing some of the best defensive basketball of the season, House continuously bailed out the Heat making long Three's, and shot clock beating prayers.

Tied after 3 quarters, we could not keep up in the 4th. Too many weapons to stop. I'd love to get another shot at these guys. Ofcourse, i might regret that later, as the rematch is early February.

Eddie House finished with 17 points, and 6 steals. Amazingly, no Heat eclipsed the 20 point barrier. A team effort.

Dwayne Wade attempts a jump shot early in the Heat's win

Up next: @ Golden State

[Johnny93g]

January 14, 2011

Game 38

(18-19)at (14-24)
Oct 29..106-104 Warriors win in Oakland
Jan 9- 102-92 Warriors win in LA

Our only road game in a 9 game span, which so far, hasn't gone as planned. 2-3 on the recent homestand, and the Clippers have fallen out of the playoff picture. Golden State, who just beat us last week is the opponent tonight. They give us trouble. We have had trouble guarding the effectively so far, so the game plan tonight is run and gun.

The strategy seemed to work. Golden State looked tired, they shot poorly, the were weak on defense, and the Clippers were looking good. Blake Griffin had an easy time getting to the net, pouring in 26 points on the night.

Entering the 4th quarter, the Warriors trailed by 10, and infact saw the deficit as high as 15 before they mounted a furious comeback. Seth Curry, who scored 29, and Monta Ellis, we had 27, were unstoppable. The Warriors cut the lead to 1, with 15 seconds remaining.

The ball found it's way to Reggie Williams at the top of the key. A pump fake freed him, he stepped up to the top of the key and let a wide open jump shot go as time expired. Memories of the last Clippers visit to Oakland surfaced. That game was won by Monta Ellis on a similar looking buzzer beater. The result's tonight were different. The ball clanked off the front rim and fell to the floor. Clippers win!

Game notes: Brian Cook returned to the rotation after sitting out the last few games. After nailing a jump shot, Cook fell to the ground awkwardly, and left the game. Cook strained his back and will be out 1-2 weeks.


Blake Griffin led the Clippers in scoring with 26

Up next: the LA Lakers

[Johnny93g]

January 16, 2011

Game 39

(28-13)at (19-19)
Dec 8...116-87 Lakers win at Clippers

The rivalry continues. The battle of Staples Center. The season series was actually split last season. In our previous meeting, we stayed with the Lakers for 3 quarters before Kobe and buried us in the 4th. We came out hard in this one, determined to even the series at 1.

This game was a war. Back and forth, no team led by more then 6 at any point in the game. A total team effort helped the Clippers compete in this one. Eric Gordon in the first. Baron Davis in the 2nd. Chris Kaman owned the 3rd, while Blake Griffin was the man in the 4th.

Kobe was his usual self, finishing with 28, but Shannon Brown was the key to the Lakers offense. He consistently was able to fill the lane and throw down some high flying dunks. It wasn't enough. Blake Griffin was 6/6 from the field in the final quarter, included a circus layup to give the Clippers the lead with 45 seconds left. A missed Kobe fadeaway, plus to Eric Gordon free throws were enough to secure the upset.

Chris Kaman holds an angry Eric Bledsoe back after a hard foul. Bledsoe converted the layup and the resulting foul shot

Up next: the Indiana Pacers

[Johnny93g]

Jan 14-I forgot to post this trade when it happened, so I'll stick it in here. The Utah Jazz and Denver Nuggets struck a deal

JR Smith



Paul Milsap

Jan 16- The Trail Blazers have announced a minor deal taking place today with the New Jersey Nets

--
Luke Babbitt Elliot Williams



Kris Humphries

[Johnny93g]

January 16, 2011

Game 40

(12-25)at (20-19)
Nov 18...110-94 Clippers win in Indianapolis

Eric Gordon came to play in his 3rd visit to his hometown NBA team and led the Clippers to their most dominant win of the season. The Pacers have struggled horribly since. At 12-25, they are closer to the #1 pick then the playoffs. Coming off their most impressive win of the season, can the Clippers win their 3rd straight..

It was clear early on that Eric Gordon didn't have it today. Actually noone had it today that wasn't named Danny Granger. Granger had 10 of the Pacers 17 1st quarter points, while his teammates held the Clippers to a season low 34 1st half points.

The dismal performance continued for LA, finishing the 3rd quarter with just 50 on the score board. Eric Gordon, just one of the many culprits was 3/12 for 12 points.

A 4th quarter rally wasn't nearly enough to overcome the power outage, as the Pacer's won a defensive battle. The Pacers came away with 10 block shots in the game. Danny Granger scored 33 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in a dominant effort.

Newest Pacer Serge Ibaka was only able to put up 4 points in the Indiana victory

Up next: the Minnesota Timberwolves

[Johnny93g]

January 19, 2011

Game 41

(17-25)at (20-20)
Nov 17..93-86 win for the Timberwolves in Minneapolis
Dec 20..102-85 Clippers win in LA

We are coming off a tough loss to the Pacers where our offense was awful. I took a look and some of our players are starting to get fatigued. It might be time to give a day off to some of the starters, just to rest up and get ready to go. That won't be today though, we need this win. Home games are getting important, so everyone goes today.

We played our game today, we didn't turn the ball over, and most importantly, Eric Gordon looked to put his recent shooting slump behind him. He was lights out in the 1st half with 19 points.

Chris Kaman hurt his wrist at the end of the half. He did not return, but the injury is not serious. That was a bit of a scare. Deandre Jordan came in and did a great job, grabbing 11 boards.

Ricky Rubio had 16 points and 6 assists, and Cory Brewer hit 4 three's, but it wasn't enough, as the Clippers beat the T-Wolves for the 2nd time this season

Ricky Rubio with the behind the back dribble

Up next: @ Portland

[Johnny93g]

January 21, 2011
Game 42

(21-20)at (21-21)
Oct 27...104-94 Blazers win in LA
Dec 5...94-86 Blazers win in Portland

I saved this game halfway through the 2nd quarter. When i went back to it, i wasn't able to play more then 1 minute without the game freezing. 3 attempts later, i gave up and decided to simulate the rest of the game.

We started out horrible, and the computer obviously kept it up. A lopsided win for Portland.

Up next: the Golden St Warriors

[Johnny93g]

January 22, 2011
Game 43

(15-27)at (21-21)
Oct 29..106-104 Warriors win in Oakland
Jan 9..102-92 Warriors win in LA
Jan 14..104-103 Clippers win in Oakland

Our final game against the Warriors this year, and I'll be glad when it's over. These guys give me trouble. I can't figure out Stephen Curry or Monta Ellis. I must be missing something, as the Warriors are really struggling against the rest of the league.

We decided to give sluggish starter Baron Davis a rest in this one, the long season was taking it's toll. Eric Bledsoe started, but was pretty bad all game. He turned the ball 6 times during the game, a number that needs to come down.

Both teams came out like gangbusters. GS shot 59%, while the Clippers were right behind them at 57%. The 2nd quarter saw the emergence of Al Aminu. He has been fine all season, but his 14 point, 7 reb quarter was a statement. He's close to taking Ryan Gomes starting spot.

Back and forth until the 4th quarter, the Warriors dynamic twosome of Ellis and Curry proved to be too much.

Game notes: Curry and Ellis are the best teammates I've faced this year. They are dynamic. Ellis put up 37, while Curry had 27 points and 10 assists.


Reggie Williams throws down 2 points in the Warriors win

Up next: @ Dallas

[RainMaker]

Following this. Real interesting team to run with. You see any chance of Bledsoe taking over the starting job from Baron? I'd be pretty tempted to do it since I love speedy point guards. Although I don't know if NBA 2K11 makes Baron fat like in real life.

[Johnny93g]

Originally Posted by RainMaker

Following this. Real interesting team to run with. You see any chance of Bledsoe taking over the starting job from Baron? I'd be pretty tempted to do it since I love speedy point guards. Although I don't know if NBA 2K11 makes Baron fat like in real life.

You know what, i have thought about it. Baron would be our #1 option playing with the 2nd team, his scoring would probably go up. The problem is i don't think Baron would like coming off the bench. There are player roles in the game, and if players aren't happy, they cause a stink.

Bledsoe is speedy, but he turns the ball over too much, and he is no threat from the outside. He's the best player he have at driving the lane and converting those layups, but Baron is a better rebounder, foul shooter, three point shooter, defender. I think Bledsoe is still too raw to take on that kind of responsibility.

Oh, and yes, 2k11 makes Baron fat like in real life

[Johnny93g]

January 25, 2011
Game 44

(21-22)at (22-21)
Oct 31..115-106 Mavs win in LA

When your battling for a playoff spot, each and every game is important. When your playing a team ahead of you in the standings, it means that much more. This was the case when we visited Dallas, who currently sit in 8th place, 1 game ahead of us.

We got some great news before the game. Channing Frye though not 100%, would suit up and give it a go today. This news sparked the whole team, who were still reeling from the thumping given to us by Golden State.

Surprisingly, this one was a defensive struggle. We adjusted nicely, limiting turnovers, and getting good shots throughout the 1st half. Frye played 8 minutes in the 1st, scoring 6 points. It was nice seeing him able to open up space for everyone else. His range will be an asset.

Jason Kidd, while dishing out 10 assists, was killing his team with brick after brick. He finished the game 0/10. Our defense was excellent, and our rebounding advantage (47-35) allowed us to keep the ball out of the Mavericks hands. In the end, it was one of the best team efforts we have had. A complete game, start to finish. Makes me wonder how we sucked against the Warriors a few days ago.

Deandre Jordan with the monster jam

Up next: @ Houston

[Johnny93g]

Jan 26- The Oklahoma City Thunder have swung a deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers

--
Antawn Jamison JJ Hickson


--
Morris Peterson Nick Collison

[Johnny93g]

January 26, 2011
Game 45

(22-22)at (30-16)
Dec 22..100-87 Clippers win in LA

The 2nd game of a back to back in Texas. Tonight, it`s the new look Houston Rockets. Ben Wallace, Travis Outlaw, Leandro Barbosa, Reggie Evans and Mike Conley have all joined the team since the season started. The changes seem to be working as the Rockets sit in 2nd place in the west.

Both teams started very fast. The Rockets Yao Ming made his first 4 shots, in the opening minutes. Blake Griffin picked up 2 quick fouls, and was already out of the game. Things were not looking good. Despite the quick start by Houston, they only led by 1 after a quarter.

The rest of the game played out very differently then the opening stanza. We totally shut down Yao and the rest of the Rockets, while Eric Gordon picked them apart. Gordon scored 26 points while dishing out a season best 11 assists. Yao would score only 4 more points in the entire game. Surprisingly, newcomer Mike Conley played only 4 minutes tonight. Makes me think another deal is coming, as Conley wont be happy with that.

Yao Ming and the Rockets had a miserable not on offense

Up next: vs. Charlotte

[Johnny93g]

Jan 27- The Indiana Pacers have completed a deal with the Boston Celtics

Marquis Daniels

The Pacers sent Boston a 2011 2nd round pick to complete the deal.

[Johnny93g]

January 29, 2011
Game 46

(17-28)at (23-22)
First Meeting

We are back home after a very successful mini road trip. 2 great games in a row, something that we have struggled with all season. Baron Davis started this game out terrible. 0/5 from the field through 4 minutes. The broadcasters noted how he didn't look right. He went to the bench and Eric Bledsoe played the remainder of the 1st half.

Bledsoe was fantastic. He dished out 12 assists in the 1st half. That's impressive. Also impressive, was Eric Gordon's 21 first half points. The Bobcats were able to keep pace however. Gerald Wallace shot 8/9 for 20 points of his own by halftime.

The Bobcats took a 9 point lead going into the fourth. Channing Frye then took over. He would score then next 8 points, and 12 in the quarter. Gordon would put up 36. The win streak extended to 3.

Notes: Eric Bledsoe had a horrible 2nd half. He didn't register a point, an assist, or a rebound at all.

Gordon goes up for 2 of his game high 36

Up next: vs. Milwaukee

[Johnny93g]

January 31, 2011
Game 47

(31-15)at (24-22)
First Meeting

A 3 game winning streak, and I'm starting to feel good about our playoff chances. Today would be a test. The Bucks are 2nd in the east, and they are legitimate. Kenyon Martin has been great since a December trade brought him over from Denver, and Michael Redd is a good candidate for 6th man of the year

The Bucks came out quick, and we came out flat. Kenyon Martin was dunking on everyone. John Salmons was money, while Blake Griffin was the only one scoring for the Clippers.

The 2nd half didn't go to well. The Bucks were clearly the better team. They clicked on all cylinders. Surprisingly, Brandon Jennings shot 0/12, and finished with just 2 points. He did deal out 10 dimes, but they don't need him to score to win.

Channing Frye poses after making a jump shot

Up next: vs. Chicago

[Johnny93g]

NBA Standings as of February 1, 2011

[Johnny93g]

LA Clippers stats as of February 1, 2011

*Minutes per game is obviously incorrect.
**RPG is Defensive rebounds per game.

[Johnny93g]

February 1- The NBA announced the players and rookies of the month for January

---
Lebron James Evan Turner


---
Kevin Durant Wesley Johnson

Lebron James of the Miami Heat and Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma City Thunder were named conference players of the month for January. The 76ers Evan Turner, and Minnesota Timberwolves Wesley Johnson were awarded Rookie of the month. Congrats to the recipients.

[Johnny93g]

Feb 1- The NBA announced the PER leaders for the season today.
PER: Player Efficiency Rating is the overall rating of a player's per-minute statistical production. The league average is 15.00 every season.

1.
Lebron James- 27.42
2.
Kevin Durant- 26.99
3.
Kobe Bryant- 26.54
4.
Dirk Nowitzki- 25.51
5.
Carmelo Anthony- 25.15
19.
Eric Gordon- 22.13

[Johnny93g]

Feb 2- The Oklahoma City Thunder have made their 2nd trade in a week, this time with the Dallas Mavericks

--
Jason Kidd JJ Barea


--
Nenad Kristic Thabo Sefolosha

[Johnny93g]

February 2, 2011
Game 48

(28-19)at (24-23)
Dec 18...94-76 Bulls win in LA

Unlike the last meeting, this was a fast paced offensive shootout. The final home game we'll play for a long time, this is a must win if we want to make the playoffs. The Bulls have added scorers Allen Iverson and Tracy McGrady to an already strong group. Iverson killed us in December, we need to control him today.

Blake Griffin came out like gangbusters, he was great, making shots from everywhere. Blake's ability to make baskets anywhere in the paint is awesome, makes him very fun to control. Eric Gordon scored 24, and Channing Frye had 15 points in 16 minutes.

We led from start to finish in a 107-99 win. T-Mac scored 21, while Iverson had 17 points, 9 assists.

We know go out on a 25 day, 11 game road trip, visiting most eastern conference teams, that will either make or break or season. Fun!

Derrick Rose drives the lane

Up next: @ Atlanta- Road trip game 1

[Johnny93g]

Feb 3- Orlando has added a former all-star in a deal with the Portland Trail Blazers.

Andre Miller


--
Chris Duhon Brandon Bass

[Johnny93g]

February 5, 2011
Game 49

(25-23)at (24-26)
Jan 2...111-91 Hawks win in LA

The first game of our road trip from hell. 11 games, pretty much all of February. We are 25-23, half a game out of 8th place in the west, and we are playing our best basketball of the season. If we bomb this road trip, the season will be over. If we ace it, we'll make the playoffs. If we go .500, well, it will waste a month of games, and we will fall further back. This month is vital.

The Hawks killed us month ago. We got Channing Frye this time, who was been great sense returning to the lineup.

Very slow first quarter. The Hawks missed their 1st 8 shots, but the eastern conference defense kept them in it, and then let them take over the game. By the end of the 3rd, things were looking bad. Gordon was off, couldn't make a shot, Griffin was cold, noone was scoring.

He comes Channing Frye. Again, Frye became the goto man in the 4th, and sparked a run to give the Clippers the lead. Frye scored 12 points in the 4th, including 2 key three pointers. Blake Griffin came to life, scoring 8 of his 18, and we were able to hold of the Hawks for the win.

The Clippers shot 55% in the fourth, while the Hawks responded with a horrible 27%. Joe Johnson should take the blame here. He shot 7/27 on the night.

Al Horford guarding Chris Kaman

Up next: @ Miami- Road trip game 2 (1-0)

[CleBrownsfan]

Very nice dynasty Johnny! What platform is this on?

Keep it up! Great read...

[Johnny93g]

Originally Posted by CleBrownsfan

Very nice dynasty Johnny! What platform is this on?

Keep it up! Great read...

Thank you sir. This is on the 360.

[Johnny93g]

February 6, 2011
Game 50

(26-23)at(30-20)
Jan 12...97-90 Heat win in LA

Game 2 of the road trip, and it's a rematch with the Heat. We played great the last time, and still lost. This game, was different.

There was some good news and some bad news. The good news is Chris Bosh went down early with a back injury. Reports are he's out 2-4 weeks. The 3 headed monster was down to 2. The bad news, their was still three and a half quarters of basketball to play

It was over, fast. Lebron and Wade put us out of our misery early. After 1, it was 39-16. At the half, it was 75-40. Thank god James and Wade barely played in the 2nd half. Those two combined for 47 points in the game. 45 were in the 1st half.

I guess their is a bit more good news. We outplayed the Heat scrubs

Yes Dwayne, your number one today

Up next: @ Orlando- Road trip game 3 (1-1)

[Johnny93g]

February 8, 2011
Game 51

(26-24)at(34-18)
Dec12...91-88 Clipper win in LA

We just got our asses handed to us by the Heat. It was an embarrassing effort for the entire squad. I decided to start Al Aminu today, just for a spark. He's been impressing me of late. He makes his open jumpers and has been our best rebounding non big guy.

Dwight Howard has out of the game early after picking up his 2nd foul. Blake Griffin went to work with 11 points and 5 boards in the quarter.

The Magic seemed off today. They shot pretty poorly, just 20% from the outside, surprising considering all the outside fire power they have. Eric Gordon wasn't having any trouble from the outside however. Making 3 of his 4 attempts.

We led comfortably for most of the game before a late Magic run made it close. They were unable to get closer then 3 however, and we held on for a important victory.

Vince Carter with the highlight reel dunk

Up next: @ New York- Road trip game 4 (2-1)

[Johnny93g]

Clippers Notes: The trade deadline is fast approaching. Under 2 weeks away, and PG Randy Foye is not happy. He was expecting more then the 14 minutes a game he is receiving this year. He's shooting just 36% from the field, but most of that is me. His release has given me difficulties, and cost him minutes. I'm looking to pick up someone who fits in with the young nucleus we have.

Randy Foye on the block

Baron Davis is also a guy i have thought about moving, but that is less likely. The Hornets offered me Peja Stojakovic's expiring contract, plus a 2011 1st round pick for him. If we were out of it, this would be a slam dunk. Competing for a playoff spot makes this less compelling. I would need to pick up a PG with experience if we did a deal like this.

--
A possible Baron Davis/Peja Stojakovic trade?

Channing Frye is also complaining about the minutes he is receiving. Yes, they aren't as many as he's used too, but he's playing a important role. There's almost no chance we let him go.

Channing Frye unhappy?

Other candidates to go include Brian Cook, Craig Smith and Ryan Gomes. I could see Gomes being used to pick up a replacement for Baron Davis, but this isn't too likely either.

[Johnny93g]

Feb 9- The Spurs and the Thunder got together on a 4 player deal today. Nothing too major.

--
Matt Bonner Dejuan Blair


--
Daequan Cook Royal Ivey

[Johnny93g]

February 9, 2011
Game 52

(27-24)at(18-33)
Nov 20...96-92 Clipper win in LA

Our 4th game in 6 days, and the 2nd of a back to back. We flew in from Orlando this morning, and the team was tired. Baron, Gordon, Blake were all very sluggish during this one. The road trip is getting to us.

The last time we played the Knicks, Gordon sat out with an injury, and Randy Foye started in his place. He scored 23 points and led us to victory. Now he wants out of LA badly.

Anyway, this one was a blowout. We got manhandled. Never close, not even at 2-0 was it close. The Knicks shot 50%, and made 11 three's. We shot 37% and barely made any shots. They finish with three 30 point quarters. You can't compete with that kind of shoddy defense. Amare Stoudamire schooled young Blake Griffin with 25 points and 16 boards.

We get the day off tommorow before a winnable game at Cleveland. We need it.

Raymond Felton of Nueva York celebrated latin night with a win

Up next: @ Cleveland- Road trip game 5 (2-2)

[Johnny93g]

Feb 10- The NBA announced the rosters for the 2011 NBA all-star game hosted by the Lakers and the Clippers in Los Angeles.

----
Kobe Bryant Chris Paul Kevin Durant Carmelo Anthony Pau Gasol

Deron Williams, Tyreke Evans, Rudy Gay, Dirk Nowitzki, Al Jefferson, Monta Ellis, and Manu Ginobili make up the remainder of the Western roster.



----
Dwayne Wade Rajan Rondo Lebron James Amare Stoudemire Dwight Howard

Brandon Jennings, Andre Iguodala, Gerald Wallace, Josh Smith, Al Horford, Danny Granger, John Wall make up the remainder of the Eastern roster.

[duff88]

Great job Johnny93G, very interesting read.

[Johnny93g]

Originally Posted by duff88

Great job Johnny93G, very interesting read.

I'm glad your enjoying it.