No less a boxing expert than Freddy Roach says that Roberto Duran in his prime would beat Manny Pacquiao. That statement is a bit surprising considering that Roach is Manny’s trainer. However the veteran trainer is adamant that if the Pac Man faced Doran at the 140 pound limit, he’d favor “"Manos de Piedro". Freddie, I respectfully disagree.
I’ll never consider Roberto Duran the best anything after his performance against Sugar Ray Leonard in November of 1980. In that bout Leonard used his superior speed and movement, not to mention an Ali shuffle or two, to build up a small lead after seven rounds. In the 8th round, Duran who was doing more talking than fighting that night reportedly told referee Octavio Meyran “No Mas”. Meyran then stopped the fight and gave Leonard the TKO. Duran and his corner have always had a different version of how things went down that night claiming that the Panamanian legend actually said “my stomach is hurting”. The truth is that Duran grew frustrated with Leonard’s style telling the referee "No boxeo con el payaso," (I'm not boxing with this clown).
The way I see it, the biggest difference between the two fighters, (besides heart), is that Pacquiao is more athletic than Duran ever was and it’s doubtful that “Manos de Piedro” ever faced a fighter with the hand speed of the “Pac Man”.
Saturday night, Pacquiao faces Miguel Cotto in a welterweight bout at the MGM in Las Vegas. Pacquiao is listed as a -280 favorite while Cotto is a+230 underdog. The total is set at 9.5 rounds. The over is +115, the under price is -145.
Mike Tyson is the former boxer who won’t go away. He was arrested (and released) after delivering a solid right hand to the face of a paparazzi who was trailing Tyson at LA International airport. It’s worth noting that both Tyson and the photographer want to press charges. With his first knockdown in a VERY long time, can a Tyson comeback be far behind?
Raiders coach Tom Cable is on his way out in Oakland he just doesn’t know it yet. Cable as you’ve probably heard has got quite the reputation as a brawler and a coward. He allegedly broke the jaw of defensive assistant Randy Hanson in August and was recently accused of domestic violence by two women. Finally Al Davis has had enough. The Raider’s senile owner is putting together a case to fire Cable for “just cause”. Cable’s dismissal, when it comes, is about three months late. Then again you wonder why he was hired in the first-place. Even Raider fan has tired of the act by the bay.
The Raiders: A Commitment to Excrement.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
It's the "Last Chance" Saloon for the Angels.
It's a battle of lefties tonight as Joe Saunders faces Andy Pettitte in Game Six of the American League Championship Series. It's anybody's guess as to how this game/series will play out given the great unknowns like the weather, coaching and umpiring.
If the weather cooperates the Angels figure to give the Yankees all they can handle tonight especially with Saunders throwing them down. The veteran lefthander doesn't blow hitters away ala C.C. Sabathia but he's one of the top pitchers in the league. Just check the numbers. In 70 career decisions, Saunders is 48-22 which is a .686 winning percentage. Compare that to the legendary Whitey Ford who has the best winning percentage of all-time at .690. I'm not drinking the Yankees cool-aid tonight. To the contrary I'm all over Saunders and the Angels at +170. Yes I know Pettitte been in a million post-season games but I'll take my chances with the Halo's in this spot.
Mike Scioscia must be very happy the Angels won Game 5 for a couple of reasons. Most importantly it kept the Angels season alive and kept him out of the frying pan. What would it have been like if his controversial Game Five moves had led to a loss and the end of the team's season? One can only imagine. He pulled John Lackey with a 4-0 lead in the 7th and he brought Brian Fuentes in to close the game. Scioscia wanted Mark Texiara to hit from the right side thus the move to bring in hook Lackey and bring in Darren Oliver. I also questioned his wisdom with bringing in Fuentes who is a walking blown save. Fuentes is his closer, it's the ninth inning and his team is one run up, and that's who he goes with. He's done it all season long. No way he was about to change no matter how scary it was to watch.
If I can give Scioscia some advice: start Jeff Mathis tonight. I know that Napoli has caught Saunders more than anyone else this season but come on. Mathis is hitting .600 with four doubles. This guy is an ALCS hero waiting to happen.
In ALCS Game 5 Alex Rodriguez became the only player ever to be intentionally walked for the second time in the ninth inning of a postseason game with no one on base. It was the right move by Angels manager Mike Scioscia because Rodriguez, who had slammed seven home runs in his previous 29 at-bats entering Game 5 -- and then whacked one ball in the game off the wall in right center -- is that scalding hot.
So Mike some final words in closing. Feel free to give A-Rod four wide ones at any time tonight.
If the weather cooperates the Angels figure to give the Yankees all they can handle tonight especially with Saunders throwing them down. The veteran lefthander doesn't blow hitters away ala C.C. Sabathia but he's one of the top pitchers in the league. Just check the numbers. In 70 career decisions, Saunders is 48-22 which is a .686 winning percentage. Compare that to the legendary Whitey Ford who has the best winning percentage of all-time at .690. I'm not drinking the Yankees cool-aid tonight. To the contrary I'm all over Saunders and the Angels at +170. Yes I know Pettitte been in a million post-season games but I'll take my chances with the Halo's in this spot.
Mike Scioscia must be very happy the Angels won Game 5 for a couple of reasons. Most importantly it kept the Angels season alive and kept him out of the frying pan. What would it have been like if his controversial Game Five moves had led to a loss and the end of the team's season? One can only imagine. He pulled John Lackey with a 4-0 lead in the 7th and he brought Brian Fuentes in to close the game. Scioscia wanted Mark Texiara to hit from the right side thus the move to bring in hook Lackey and bring in Darren Oliver. I also questioned his wisdom with bringing in Fuentes who is a walking blown save. Fuentes is his closer, it's the ninth inning and his team is one run up, and that's who he goes with. He's done it all season long. No way he was about to change no matter how scary it was to watch.
If I can give Scioscia some advice: start Jeff Mathis tonight. I know that Napoli has caught Saunders more than anyone else this season but come on. Mathis is hitting .600 with four doubles. This guy is an ALCS hero waiting to happen.
In ALCS Game 5 Alex Rodriguez became the only player ever to be intentionally walked for the second time in the ninth inning of a postseason game with no one on base. It was the right move by Angels manager Mike Scioscia because Rodriguez, who had slammed seven home runs in his previous 29 at-bats entering Game 5 -- and then whacked one ball in the game off the wall in right center -- is that scalding hot.
So Mike some final words in closing. Feel free to give A-Rod four wide ones at any time tonight.
The Lakers Are Poised For An NBA Repeat.
The NBA regular season begins Tuesday night with three games on the opening night card. One of the games will pit the defending champion Lakers against the Clipppers at Staples Center in Los Angeles. The Lakers are not only favored to repeat as champions but they could top the 70-win plateau.
The power players haven't really changed. The Lakers, Cavs and Celtics are still the cream of the NBA crop. Meanwhile, the return of a healthy Manu Ginobili, along with the addition of Richard Jefferson should mean a return to the NBA elite. Will Orlando make another run at the title? It seems to me they took a big step back by losing Hedo Turkoglu who is not only an unselfish players, he’s also a matchup nightmare In his place comes Vince Carter who has always had the me first mentality. Losing Turk’ while trading away Rafer Alston and Courtney Lee can’t be good for chemistry. I mean Dwight Howard can only do so much.
If you are looking for the probable site of the most improved NBA team then look no further than Washington D.C. Gilbert Arenas is back and with a big-time coach in Flip Saunders the Wizards could do some big things in the Eastern Conference.
With the new season nearly upon us, I’m ready to make some “fearless forecasts” as to how things could play out this season.
Harvey’s predicted order of finish in the EASTERN CONFERENCE: Cleveland, Boston, Orlando, Atlanta, Washington, Chicago, Miami and Philadelphia.
EAST CHAMPION: Cleveland Cavs
I have been vacillating between Boston and Cleveland. The Cavs really improved in the off-season. The Celtics were leading both the Cavs and Lakers for the best record in the league when Kevin Garnett was sidelined with a knee injury. However even with K.G. back in the lineup, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Rasheed Wallace are all a year older and with Wallace there’s that whole chemistry issue. For that reason I’ve got the Beantown Ballers slotted in the #2 hole behind King James and company.
Harvey’s predicted order of finish in the WESTERN CONFERENCE
Lakers, Portland, Denver, San Antonio, New Orleans, Utah, Dallas and Phoenix.
WEST CHAMPION: LA Lakers
If Ron Artest, an all-star caliber player can accept a lesser role with the Lakers, this team will be virtually unstoppable. Put Artest on the opposing team’s top scorer night in and night out and watch the sparks fly and the victories pile-up. The Lakers were heavy favorites to win the West before they got #99. Now the Lake Show is on a whole new level.
NBA CHAMPION: LA Lakers
As previously mentioned the Lakers were pretty good coming into the season but they made a significant upgrade from Trevor Ariza to Artest. You’ve got to admit that an LA/Cleveland series could be pretty good. It will be Kobe and Andrew Bynum going head-to-head with Lebron and Shaquille O’Neal. Now THAT’S must see TV.
All I ask is that when the Lakers accept the Lawrence O’Brien trophy that Jeanie Buss will take the hardware on behalf of the family. After last year’s presentation fiasco let’s keep the goofy Buss brothers as far away from the proceedings as we can.
2009 NBA Win Totals.
NBA Win Totals
The Lakers were 65-17 last season, and they could be even better this season. The Lakers replaced Trevor Ariza with All-Star Ron Artest giving LA potential its best team since the Kobe/Shaq era. Artest brings attitude to Tinsel Town and he backs it up with his defense. Andrew Bynum’s knee is stronger and if he can stay healthy for the entire season the sky is the limit for him and the Lakers. Throw in Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Derek Fisher and you’ve got a championship team that not only could repeat but could also win 70+ games along the way!
Except for Trevor Ariza's departure to Houston and Artest’s arrival this team has stayed intact from a year ago. The Lakers are not only talented, but they’re also deep and experienced. Phil Jackson looks like he’s got a new spring in his step and you know Kobe won’t allow this team to coast. Helping the Lakers in their quest for 70 wins this season is schedule. Kobe and company will play 17 of their first 21 games at home.
The Lakers OVER is my personal favorite season total on the board but there are some others worth checking out. Consider:
Washington Wizards (OVER). Giilbert Arenas is back after losing most of last season with a knee injury. If he can stay healthy he along with Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison should easily top the win total from a year ago.
Los Angeles Clippers (OVER). This team will still compete with Sacramento in the “battle of the basement” in the Pacific Division. But with rookie stud Blake Griffin on board teaming with second year star Eric Gordon they’ll surprise some people.
Oklahoma City Thunder (OVER). Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are two of the key players for a young and promising OKC franchise. As they start to gel, the wins will add up.
Houston Rockets (UNDER). Ron Artest jumped ship, Yao Ming is out for the season with a leg injury and Tracy McGrady is the biggest question mark in the league. When healthy, T-Mac is probably worth four or five wins on his own. But that’s just it….he’s never healthy.
Portland Trailblazers (OVER). Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldredge and Greg Odon=Two and a half-men since Oden is hurt most of the time. (Sorry Charlie Sheen). The Trailblazers won 54 games last season and should top that total this year.
Here’s the current NBA Season Win Totals. Vig may vary.
Western Conference
Dallas Mavericks
Over 48.5 (-120)
Under 48.5 (-115)
Denver Nuggets
Over 53.5 (-115)
Under 53.5 (-115)
Golden State Warriors
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Houston Rockets
Over 36.5 (-115)
Under 36.5 (-115)
Los Angeles Clippers
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Los Angeles Lakers
Over 62.5 (-120)
Under 62.5 (-115)
Memphis Grizzlies
Over 27.5 (-115)
Under 27.5 (-115)
Minnesota Timberwolves
Over 27.5 (-115)
Under 27.5 (-115)
New Orleans Hornets
Over 46.5
Under 46.5 (-120)
New York Knicks
Over 31.5 (-115)
Under 31.5 (-115)
Oklahoma City Thunder
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Phoenix Suns
Over 40.5
Under 40.5 (-120)
Portland Trailblazers
Over 53.5 (-115)
Under 53.5 (-115)
Sacramento Kings
Over 23.5 (-105)
Under 23.5 (-125)
San Antonio Spurs
Over 54.5 (-115)
Under 54.5 (-115)
Utah Jazz
Over 50.5 (-115)
Under 50.5 (-115)
Eastern Conference Win Totals
Atlanta Hawks
Over 45.5 (-115)
Under 45.5 (-115)
Boston Celtics
Over 57.5 (-115)
Under 57.5 (-115)
Charlotte Bobcats
Over 35.5 (-115)
Under 35.5 (-115)
Chicago Bulls
Over 41.5 (-115)
Under 41.5 (-115)
Cleveland Cavaliers
Over 61.5 (-120)
Under 61.5 (-115)
Detroit Pistons
Over 40.5 (-115)
Under 40.5 (-115)
Indiana Pacers
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Miami Heat
Over 41.5 (-115)
Under 41.5 (-115)
Milwaukee Bucks
Over 28.5 (-115)
Under 28.5 (-115)
New Jersey Nets
Over 27.5
Under 27.5
New York Knicks
Over 31.5 (-115)
Under 31.5 (-115)
Orlando Magic
Over 57.5 (-120)
Under 57.5
Philadelphia 76ers
Over 40.5 (-120)
Under 40.5
Toronto Raptors
Over 40.5 (-115)
Under 40.5 (-115)
Washington Wizards
Over 41.5 (-130)
Under 41.5 (even)
The Lakers were 65-17 last season, and they could be even better this season. The Lakers replaced Trevor Ariza with All-Star Ron Artest giving LA potential its best team since the Kobe/Shaq era. Artest brings attitude to Tinsel Town and he backs it up with his defense. Andrew Bynum’s knee is stronger and if he can stay healthy for the entire season the sky is the limit for him and the Lakers. Throw in Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Derek Fisher and you’ve got a championship team that not only could repeat but could also win 70+ games along the way!
Except for Trevor Ariza's departure to Houston and Artest’s arrival this team has stayed intact from a year ago. The Lakers are not only talented, but they’re also deep and experienced. Phil Jackson looks like he’s got a new spring in his step and you know Kobe won’t allow this team to coast. Helping the Lakers in their quest for 70 wins this season is schedule. Kobe and company will play 17 of their first 21 games at home.
The Lakers OVER is my personal favorite season total on the board but there are some others worth checking out. Consider:
Washington Wizards (OVER). Giilbert Arenas is back after losing most of last season with a knee injury. If he can stay healthy he along with Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison should easily top the win total from a year ago.
Los Angeles Clippers (OVER). This team will still compete with Sacramento in the “battle of the basement” in the Pacific Division. But with rookie stud Blake Griffin on board teaming with second year star Eric Gordon they’ll surprise some people.
Oklahoma City Thunder (OVER). Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are two of the key players for a young and promising OKC franchise. As they start to gel, the wins will add up.
Houston Rockets (UNDER). Ron Artest jumped ship, Yao Ming is out for the season with a leg injury and Tracy McGrady is the biggest question mark in the league. When healthy, T-Mac is probably worth four or five wins on his own. But that’s just it….he’s never healthy.
Portland Trailblazers (OVER). Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldredge and Greg Odon=Two and a half-men since Oden is hurt most of the time. (Sorry Charlie Sheen). The Trailblazers won 54 games last season and should top that total this year.
Here’s the current NBA Season Win Totals. Vig may vary.
Western Conference
Dallas Mavericks
Over 48.5 (-120)
Under 48.5 (-115)
Denver Nuggets
Over 53.5 (-115)
Under 53.5 (-115)
Golden State Warriors
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Houston Rockets
Over 36.5 (-115)
Under 36.5 (-115)
Los Angeles Clippers
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Los Angeles Lakers
Over 62.5 (-120)
Under 62.5 (-115)
Memphis Grizzlies
Over 27.5 (-115)
Under 27.5 (-115)
Minnesota Timberwolves
Over 27.5 (-115)
Under 27.5 (-115)
New Orleans Hornets
Over 46.5
Under 46.5 (-120)
New York Knicks
Over 31.5 (-115)
Under 31.5 (-115)
Oklahoma City Thunder
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Phoenix Suns
Over 40.5
Under 40.5 (-120)
Portland Trailblazers
Over 53.5 (-115)
Under 53.5 (-115)
Sacramento Kings
Over 23.5 (-105)
Under 23.5 (-125)
San Antonio Spurs
Over 54.5 (-115)
Under 54.5 (-115)
Utah Jazz
Over 50.5 (-115)
Under 50.5 (-115)
Eastern Conference Win Totals
Atlanta Hawks
Over 45.5 (-115)
Under 45.5 (-115)
Boston Celtics
Over 57.5 (-115)
Under 57.5 (-115)
Charlotte Bobcats
Over 35.5 (-115)
Under 35.5 (-115)
Chicago Bulls
Over 41.5 (-115)
Under 41.5 (-115)
Cleveland Cavaliers
Over 61.5 (-120)
Under 61.5 (-115)
Detroit Pistons
Over 40.5 (-115)
Under 40.5 (-115)
Indiana Pacers
Over 34.5 (-115)
Under 34.5 (-115)
Miami Heat
Over 41.5 (-115)
Under 41.5 (-115)
Milwaukee Bucks
Over 28.5 (-115)
Under 28.5 (-115)
New Jersey Nets
Over 27.5
Under 27.5
New York Knicks
Over 31.5 (-115)
Under 31.5 (-115)
Orlando Magic
Over 57.5 (-120)
Under 57.5
Philadelphia 76ers
Over 40.5 (-120)
Under 40.5
Toronto Raptors
Over 40.5 (-115)
Under 40.5 (-115)
Washington Wizards
Over 41.5 (-130)
Under 41.5 (even)
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