Saturday, April 27, 2013

Good Sign, Bad Sign


Amazing game last night by his buddy Steph. I'm absolutely sure if there is any way Jeremy can be effective, he will play.

Also, if you watched the Warriors Nuggets you'd know why I really wanted Denver in the first round. Reasons should be obvious. Anthony Randolph and Javale McGee's decision making, even Corey Brewer although he had a very good game. Evan Fournier is too inexperienced and Andre Miller too old. That is half your rotation. Losing Galinari was huge.

On Beverly's play on Westbrook, it's move you see all the time. I bet if you go through film you'll find Westbrook doing it many times. He did come across his body with playoff like aggression but that's PB's game. I actually love Beverly. He's given the Rockets much needed toughness that you usually see come from the PF or front court positions.

Anyway, we now have OKC without Westbrook. Still, no one is giving the Rockets a chance. If the Rockets can somehow protect home court these next two games, I truly believe they can pull this out. It starts tonight, just one win to start.

Update:







189 comments:

  1. I don't see a real difference between playoff Rockets and reg season Rockets. They need to play much much harder to even the series 2-2.

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    1. Exactly, because all they do is shoot 3s or get FTs from Harden.

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    2. Great point guys! Regular season success but playoff dud if offense continues that way it does.

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  2. There is nothing we can do to undo the past (we are up against OKC regardless of all our "what ifs" and "could haves"... I personally just want LIN to be fit to play and to at least have the chance to play his brand of basketball (aggressive) and to play for his ONE audience.

    Haters will hate... but seriously i still cannot understand how people (esp. Rockets' fans) can hate Jeremy... the guy represents all that is good and respectable in the world.

    Anyhow, will be praying for LIN to lead the Rockets to victory!

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    1. I don't think there are that many rockets fans hate Jeremy, however most rockets fans do not like or care about him either. Casual fans see ads/news/tweets put out from management and react to game commentators' words, they are in favor of players other than Lin clearly.

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  3. Las Vegas has OKC only 1 point favorite over Rockets:

    Vegas Insider

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  4. It's pretty frustrated to see JLin's current situation.
    He played with his whole heart for 82 games, but now it seems to "some people" that they don't count at all (just like NYK pretending Lisanity never happened).
    Rockets home page has only beard & beiber, which I think may have been OK-ed by the owner. If that's the case, are we going to see JLin get out of there soon?

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    1. It's actually a GREAT SIGN - I hope - that Jeremy Lin will be traded soon BECAUSE the timing of the Rockets home-page is important: Their current season will be over imminently! (I thought another good sign that Lin would be traded soon, was that the Rockets bothered to put out a press - via a respected NYTimes - a piece which attempted to put their public dissing of Lin in perspective. On the other hand, they didn't need to do the damage control, so I hope they still will trade him). BY FAR, THE WORSE THING for Lin's career is if he's stuck in Houston until the RIPE OLD basketball age 27 years old !!!&^%#@&?!! (24 is a typical age for players to perform at their peak, because most first and 2nd round players don't finish college and are drafted at 19 or 20).

      Several small to medium market teams are excellent for Lin. and some others would be are okay. Lin isn't likely wanted by big markets, as Lin didn't learn as much this year due to the circumstances. Lin will learn faster and play much better with another team in a nurtured or normal environment. It's comforting that most other teams' general managers and coaches don't have political motives to stymie Lin on the court and diss Lin in the press: In retrospect, the only teams Lin should have avoided are (besides the Knicks) Rockets, Warriors and Kings.

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    2. Of course, not many - maybe no other - teams went for Lin. Partly because he was restricted; partly because of his surgery.

      Therefore, Lin was actually fortunate that Mr Alexander, the Rockets owner, signed him. BUT NOW IT'S TIME TO TRADE Lin. Trades happen all the time in the NBA, and it's time for another phase for Lin.

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    3. "Of course, not many - maybe no other - teams went for Lin. Partly because he was restricted; partly because of his surgery."

      The main reason Lin did not get other offers is because NY stated they would match any offer by other teams, so making an offer seemed pointless. Keep in mind that if a franchise made an offer to Lin, during that time period before NY matches or refuses to match, the amount of the contract is locked in as part of the team's projected cap space, and limits you from making deals for other free agents. NY's statement therefore made it appear unadvantageous and futile to extend Lin an offer.

      Also, contrary to what is commonly said, I believe Lin is underpaid. The only reason he did not get more money is because of the limits imposed by the CBA on his status. His contract is already the maximum allowed under the CBA rules.

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    4. That is to say, Lin's salary is, like many players, limited by the ceiling set by the CBA for his situation. There was, at that time, simply no other young PG with as much upside as he has.

      When his contract expires in two years and the current contract ceiling is lifted, I would not be surprised if he got paid even more. The main difference at that point is that teams would be making offers not based on his projected 'upside' but by his actual performance, including the peak performances as well as what he averages consistently, whatever that may be.

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    5. 0ccupati0,

      Yes I agree and I'm aware of all that. When I said because because he was *restricted*, what you've stated went along with it (it was especially so in Lin's situation due to the Knicks constant advertisement that they'll match. But my post was already long to fill in the detail for some people. LOL

      I'm still not sure Lin would have gotten other offers (maybe one more?) because much was made by pundits and Lin haters of the fact that Lin's production dipped a lot under Woody's era (the 3rd reason which I failed to mention at first). However, the dip was announced as expected - in at least 2 press conferences - because Lin was going to play a different role, as well as a lot less minutes. They were also aware that Lin played with the injury for about a week.

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    6. Indeed, who can say what he would have gotten otherwise.

      Anyway, it doesn't mean much either way because there are plenty of silly and stupid contracts that GMs give out on a regular basis. The best players -- that is, those who impact teams by helping produce the most wins -- do not necessarily get the most money, and inefficient volume shooters often get big contracts.

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    7. You're not kidding!

      Today, the Nets Deron Williams's stats looked about 30% better than the Bull's Nate Robinson who was a major factor in the Bull's win. But guess what? Nate played only 29 minutes. Deron played 58 minutes !!! Nate (the guy who taunts filty to Lin, LOL) was great all year too.

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    8. Nate can be annoying as heck, but I nevertheless love him. He's so unpredictable, and just wears his heart on his sleeve. That's just pure entertainment. I'm glad Bulls won, since I like the idea that the mega-bucks Nets roster is getting owned by a team without 'stars.' Also, the Bulls defense is a joy to watch.

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  5. If Lin doesn't try to play, some fans will crucify him as "soft", particularly in light of his inability to play with the Knicks last year due to his knee and the 85% comment.

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    1. But if he can only takes 2-3 shots during practice, I wonder how he is able to play at all.

      I definitely wish he has recovered well enough to play, as I have flown all the way from east coast to Houston just to cheer for him.

      looking at the situation in Rox FO, coaches, and fans, I can't imagine how he feels <- did he tweet any bible verse these few days, which is usually the indication that JLin feels frustrated.

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    2. Let them call him soft if he's too injured to play. Who cares what these losers think.

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    3. IMO, It's imperative for Lin to play. He just can't afford to sit out two playoffs in a row. Too much collateral damage to his reputation. Last year i voted for him to sit out. Not this year. Heck if you gotta shoot and dribblle with your left hand, do it. No shame no game. At least, you gave it your all.

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    4. It should be decided by the team doctor, and perhaps a 2nd opinion by another doctor.

      I've heard that many players have their own personal doctor; read that Rose has his own doctor he listens to more than the team doctor.

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    5. according to Stu below, pain can be controlled, but only impairment with strength. Not life or career threatening. Why not play? Nothing to lose but everything to gain. Plus Mchale won't use him much anyways. Come on guys!

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    6. The way Lin plays, this won't be the first and last time he will have injury. Imagine the scenario for the next one (knock on wood).....public opinion won't give him any more benefit of a doubt. Versus if he plays now, he's building his credibility. We know he's tough, but he needs to represent at the same time.

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  6. I want Lin to do the "Willis Reed", which means come in and play a couple minutes.

    Keep the Ironman streak of played games going!

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  7. He needs to suck it up and play. If he is ineffective then u sit. But at least needs to give it a go.

    It's all about desire Jeremy. With adrenalin kicking it, he may not even feel any pain.

    Again, I'd be shocked if he doesn't make an attempt to play. It's a freaking bruise for god's sake.

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    1. This is how Dr. Solidz75 sees it. He still has pain. Took only 2 to 3 shots because he didn't want to aggravate before the game. They are probably going to give him intensive pain med closer to the game - with both kicking in, he will feel much better. He will give it a go - but McHale will have a low threshold up pull him if he is ineffective.

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    2. He has never missed a game for a sprained ankle which many players do. He continued practice after dislocating his shoulder when he was with the Warriors. How can you question his desire? Give it a rest.

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    3. Solidz, why are you trying to convince yourself that Lin only had a bruise and he had to play?

      Just like your advice you gave to Stu, we don't have all the information that the Rockets doctor have to make the best medical decision.

      If the doctors or Lin said he can't play, I will trust them. No questions asked.
      He has proven he plays through pain before.

      Whether he plays or doesn't play, I will be fully supporting him.

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  8. Do you guys remember Rondo playing with a dislocated shoulder in the playoffs?

    He played with one hand.

    Maybe Lin can play with just his left hand?

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  9. Ok my 2 cents. The biggest factor with a bruised muscle is that he has lack of force as he has said. He will not be able to get his shot off and will not be able to pass effectively, shoot free throws or 3 pointers. I seriously doubt he plays today based on the provided info. This coming from a physician.

    I hope he does play and they are not letting on that he can shoot for the element of surprise.

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    1. Its definitely not the pain. It's the lack of ability to activate the muscle.

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    2. Never heard of a bruise preventing an activation of muscle in my medical career. What kind if doctor are u?

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    3. I think the bruise can have an impact on your range of motion.

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    4. musculoskeletal medicine. a bruised muscle on a microscopic level causes edema, bleeding and tears - trauma to the muscle. that muscle in a damaged state can not generate the same force.



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    5. Very interesting. Great to know we have a resident doc on hand.

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    6. Ok, I am not a doctor at all, just wanna ask. Is it a pain that he can just ride it out? Can this lack of force been compensated by trying to applying more force on whatever he want to do?

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    7. the way you can prove this to yourself if you are ever interested is to cause a bruise to your muscle. then inject with lidocaine to take away the pain and then try to max out your weight-lifting. you will notice that you can lift less while there is no pain.

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    8. that is a good theoretical question. he probably could apply more force (or more force than he think he would need to shoot), maybe even enough to shoot but it would be difficult to calibrate and control the right amount of force (extra force) to shoot a basketball well.

      I also definitely see a huge problem with passing the ball.

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    9. So.. is it possible that the lakc if force is because of the medicine?

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    10. @stu: so in your opinion, taking pain med (as mentioned by solidz75) won't help?

      Oh, man, I flew 3 hours to Houston just to support JLin, and now this...arghhhh....

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    11. Pain meds are anti-inflammatories designed to limit swelling. Such an extensive damage to limit motion would've shown up on the MRI. I've never seen anyone not play due to contusion unless an extensive damage to the muscle was seen. Unless the Rox are holding info back, doubt contusion alone will keep an athlete from playing.

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    12. @HY...you are awesome for flying in. I don't think pain is the issue now - so pain meds won't help. I am guessing he will see how it affects his shot and passing ability. If those are not at an elite level or a level where he could help his team then I suspect he will not play.

      The MRI did show a contusion, bruised muscle as far as I know.

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    13. Yeah but MRI didn't show a tear with which you would anticipate a lot more inflammation.

      Can u give me a case of an athlete being held out because of a contusion?

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    14. Giancarlo Stanton - L shoulder contusion just a week ago. Guy has no power and still has not hit a homer.

      Contusion does not show a macroscopic tear.

      Also, I just heard on ESPN that he got dry needling which causes trauma to the muscle. This is not the therapy I would have recommended. Damn.

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    15. Who knows, maybe being unable to use force or use the right amount of force will force him to only shoot with legs and wrist? And also maybe he'll dribble only with his left hand. That should people to rest about him not being able to go left. :)

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    16. Man, this sucks. My interest in the western conference playoffs just died a little. Damn.

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    17. Stu, dry needling on Lin or the baseball player?

      Damn, this f@cking sucks .

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    18. They just dry needled Lin. I am not saying he is out. Maybe the Rox are overplaying this and Lin is privately shooting away from the media.

      Dry needling is good for chronic pain and works by causing muscle trauma with the intent of causing more bleeding which can help but takes days (usually used to bring blood into areas that get poor blood supply in chronic pain). This is a whole different issue.

      Ok, I'll be on later to answer any questions. I should start a medical blog on random thoughts...talk to a hundred different docs and get a hundred different opinions. But sounds like they are trying everything and anything to get him going quickly.

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    19. Thanks for the info Stu. Appreciate it.

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    20. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    21. Lin is not trying to box anyone or generate enough force to hit a homerun. And that athlete u mentioned sounds like he's still playing.

      U guys act like Lin is crippled from this contusion. So he has a microscopic issue.. Meaning one or two muscle strands are inflamed. I'm sure if u saw every athlete in a cellular level, all have a little inflammation here and there.

      Stu I realize u r in sports medicine but let's not try to criticize the Rox doctors without you knowing what they know. It makes u look quite pretentious. One rule of medicine is never to criticize your collegues in public forum.. Especially when u don't have any info at hand.

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    22. Solidz, it's a good advice not to criticize or question the Rox doctors or Lin without us knowing what they know.

      We don't really know the seriousness of the injury or the effectiveness of the treatment. Thanks to Stu who provided the medical opinion.

      If Lin plays, I'll be so happy to support him. If he doesn't, I know he tried his best and I trust his health doesn't allow him to.

      I know you're passionate but you might set yourself up for a big disappointment if Lin can't play. You've got to trust Lin and the Rox doctors.

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    23. Lol. Solidz75, you crack me up. I have patients just like you.

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    24. Stu,why do u comment on your colleague's aptitude without knowing the facts in front of your patients too? "Are u serious? Your former doctor did dry needling? Omg. He's so incompetent"

      Let me guess do lawyers pay u to testify against your colleagues?

      I always viewed sports medicine docs as those who weren't smart enough to get into orthopedics. People should realize sports med is one of the easiest field to get into. Musculoskeletal medicine. Lol are u serious?

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    25. Solidz75,

      Stop it, you're behaving like a thug, not a doctor.

      With a short temper and uncouth behavior like you, I'd much rather (like 1,000 %) that Stu would be my doctor and not you.

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    26. it makes common sense that when the muscle is injured, it doesn't have the same ability to contract; besides that the body automatically will shut down your muscles even from just over activity to protect itself. sceintists have been able to measure the reduction in musclular output even though test subjects felt they were exerting the same amount of effort. It wouldnt surprise me if its both physical and automatic defensive mechanism at work. extreame athletes have to train a long time to override those defensive mechanism, take for example long distance triathlone athletes.

      Lin may feel as if he is ready but his body knows otherwise. so much of our lower brain activities is unmonitored. everyting the body learns to do is by trail and error. learning to handle the extra adrenalin in playoffs is one of them. most people delude themselves that their mind controls our body. we only realize it when someone has a stroke and has to relearn how to walk.

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  10. Whoever thinks Lin is soft if he doesn't play because of the injury should go get a chest contusion and then play ball and see how it goes.

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    1. Just got back. Just a little pain but sure can play without issues.

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  11. I've seen a video on clutchfans and i'm gonna make a u-turn: Westbrook did the same thing to jeremy that beverly did to him so... What goes around comes around russell.

    About jeremy i hope he only plays if he's 100%. If Mchale intended for him to be the primary ball handler and the distributor it would be ok tryin to play. But he will just camp on 3 point line so it's better to recover for game 4. People will criticize him if he doesn't play or if he'll shoot Airballs...

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    1. I hope someone makes a compilation of Westbrook and others doing this same play so that it destroys the illusion that Westbrook could maintain that what Beverly did was malicious.

      But really, I think it's biased to think that what Beverly did was wrong just by looking at the footage. So, to me, you should have been fair to Beverly before seeing that Lin footage.

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    2. People criticize and hate on Lin regardless. Watch, the media experts will start saying what Solidz has been saying, "what athlete has missed a game with a muscle bruise?" Theyll continue to doubt his toughness even though he played multiple games, last year with a torn meniscus, played all 82 games this year, and even his bum coach said his best attribute was his toughness. Yet the Anti-Lin agenda continues. Media idiots and retarded fans, Please STFU.

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    3. I thought u don't care about what the haters and the media says about Lin. Why do u keep paying attention to them. Don't stress yourself. I'll do the work for u.

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    4. That's right, it's your job to worry and be dramatic for the rest of us.

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    5. I saw the CL video, but when WB went for the ball on LIn, the time-out was not called. When PB went for the ball on WB, a time-out was called. That's the difference.

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    6. K smith exactly so stop worrying so much about what other people say like I do. U call out people who do and still do exactly the same thing. Do u even read your posts? U sound like u r about to punch the wall.

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    7. You b.itch a lot. I ain't got time for that. Do what you gotta do to make yourself feel better.

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    8. Yeah u and me both. I think I can replace my name with ypurs on your posts and noone would know the difference. Lol.

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  12. A pic I took yesterday outside of Toyota Center
    http://instagram.com/p/Yl3MiHon46/

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    1. Enjoy the game tonight, you still got Monday's game too. It's still pretty damn cool that you're attending a playoff game.

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    2. Have fun!! Let us know how it goes, and tell JLin we says "hy." Sorry, couldn't resist.

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    3. lol, kauai :D

      Yes, have fun, HY!
      Hold up a sign that says "Hy from JeremyLin.net!"

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    4. Have a great time tonight! I hope you'll be able to see him play. I completely know how disappointed you may be feeling right now because I flew to NY last year to watch the Knicks vs. Heat game, but after all my plans were arranged and paid for, Lin was injured. At that time they didn't know the extent of his injury. So frustrating.

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    5. Not sure if I have the guts to do anything crazy. I am extremely "public shy".

      Let me prepare the poster anyway, if he is playing, I'll try.

      Any NBA rule that says how long before the game that they should announce the lineup?

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    6. I'm sure people here will know but I don't think there's a rule. I think you know when the game starts.

      When I went to the Clippers game Harden was a game time decision I think. Anyhow, I saw him warming up before the game, but he didn't end up playing.

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    7. He didn't play because it was not an important game in the grand scheme.this is the playoffs. Unless u have a complete tear of your Achilles, u need to play.

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    8. Well, I was trying to answer HY's question about when he will know the lineup tonight. Not whether JLin should or should not play. I think we know your opinion on that question Solidz75. Haha. I don't disagree with you but I feel like we've discussed this ad nauseum. Now all we can do is wait and see...

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  13. Regarding Lin... I'm certain he will play if he can. And if he can't, he won't. I mean, there is no intelligence in playing when your injury brings the whole team down because you can't perform with it. So the bottom line is that Lin will play if he can help the team. And won't if he can't. Pain is not going to be a factor here.

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    1. Yes, I trust his judgment. He went to Harvard after all.

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    2. That's pretty obvious to the rational fans. We don't think he's purposely sitting out nor do we doubt his toughness. If he's not playing its bc he REALLY CAN'T PLAY.

      It still sucks as a fan who wants to see their favorite player on the court.

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    3. If you don't play how do you know you won't help the team? That's a defeatist view to think you can't help the team to begin with, then might as well not play

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    4. mt, I see what you're saying. I'm assuming that if he tries to take some shots before the game and it's just not happening, he will experience this same problem while he plays. And if he experiences that same problem while he plays, how will he help the team win?

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    5. The best way is for Lin to actually play the game but if he has trouble breathing or experience pain while shooting, then he should stop after a few possessions.

      This way fans can see how he gives his best to play but simply can't.

      The grimace, affected shooting motion, less aggressiveness will show everyone that he wants to play to help the team but if the injury affects the team play negatively, they should pull him out.

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    6. plenty of ways. Drive and kick out. Now mchale got no excuse to rail at him. Better yet, he's got an excuse to go wild! Do things he normally not allowed to do. Blame it on the injury.

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    7. shoot Kobe plays best when he's injured because the pressure is off. He's playing with house money.

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    8. If I were Lin, I'd declare myself ready to play. Now the ball lies in Mchale's court. The blame is diffused.

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    9. true, mt.

      Lin has to say that he's ready to play but either the team doctor or McHale rule him out. The blame won't be on Lin.

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    10. I think the problem is how people define "can't play." Like to some Knicks' fans 85% meant you can play, no matter what you mean to say.

      I agree with you mt. Good thinking.

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    11. He's got Kevin Martin..... easy assignment.

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    12. Don't you need force behind your passes and shooting? I thought he said that he didnt have any force.

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    13. I'm pretty sure adrenaline will overcome that. Two girls lifted a 3000lb crane off of the father who was crushed. We're talking about a basketball.

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    14. That is exactly why Westbrook was able to finish the game string despite getting meniscus ripped out by bev .

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    15. JLin will play if he thinks he can help the team win. IMO, declaring yourself ready to play and become the team's liability because you are afraid of being called "weak" is more weak.

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    16. Sesshie, that's exactly correct. Unfortunately I suspect some people don't realize this.

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  14. Guys, based on the comments on nba.com, it sure sounds like he will say he's ready to play.

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    1. That's your interpretation. If someone skips practice and shootaround, the odds of them being healthy enough to play a playoff game are very slim.

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  15. This link: http://m.espn.go.com/nba/story?storyId=9218030


    I just think, he is careful after being burned in New York, where his statements were taken out of context

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  16. McHale has declared to be the most important game of the season. I don't understand some of u who will not watch this game if Lin doesn't play, beause this game will decide Lin's future with the Rox if he doesn't play.

    The Rox finally get to try out a line up without Lin and their new star child, Beverley. If the Rox play well with bev, I do not see why Rox wouldn't look to trade Lin. If the opposite happens and the Rox are away without Lin, then his importance to the team will be accentuated.

    A lot at stake tonight for Lin regardless if whether he plays or not. It will be interesting to see what happens. I still don't think Lin sits out this game because iof some inflammation of some muscle strands ( microscopic inflammation) but we shall see.

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    1. I don't know about determining Lin's future, cuz I think it's already in the cards. But It should be the most interestingly anticipated and exciting game to watch so far out of the whole season.

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    2. Perhaps it won't mean as much, but if Lin doesn't play and Beverley does what he did last game and is a big factor in the win, that has to change Morey and McHale's thinking about who will be future pg.
      Morey has even said there is not much drop off between Lin and bev. Perhaps his view point will be cemented.

      On the other hand, if this moment is too big for bev and he comes back down to earth and plays poorly, then that would effect the front officr's thinking as well.

      IMO, a lot at stake tonight not just for tox but Lin as well, if he doesn't play.

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    3. IMO, it doesn't matter if JLin stays with the Rockets next season or not. I just know two things for sure. JLin will improve his game and I will follow him to whatever team he ends up with. I'm tired of listening to the haters and they don't matter. JLin will remain in the NBA no matter what they say. For now, I will take everything in stride.

      It would be nice for the Rockets to win this game, even without JLin because it will prolong the series so JLin can get a chance to recover and play beyond Monday's game.

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    4. Similar situation has already happened in regular season. Beverly nailed like 3/3 in his first game, was pronounced the new sensation but then played like a scrub the next couple of games. Hope this won't happen in this playoff game #3.

      The backup guard - Brooks was the MIP? a couple of years ago - wth has happened to his level of play? Otherwise Anderson will play long minutes. McHale is now sowing what he reaped. If it was any other coach, the injured player would have immediately played at risk of further injury to his body but Lin is smarter than that.

      It's similar to asking Kobe to play for a team that realistically will not progress thru the playoffs further. A lot of risk of permanent damage for little future gain. Let's see if WB will come back for OKC's later playoff games. He's already been operated on and these super athletes sometimes make amazingly quick recovery using the best medical treatment available.

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    5. Sorry 'sowing what he reaped' should be 'reaping what he sowed'

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    6. hate to say this without Lin Rockets is about as exciting as the Knicks.

      Boring to watch...

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    7. I'd rather go to church than watch a Rox without Lin.

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    8. KENOSHI, where the hell have you been?

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    9. Kenoshi, agreed 100% [by everybody.]

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  17. Lin plays clean basketball and I can't say the same thing about the Thunders. Lin was banged up pretty bad. He was taken out of the game. The Thunders did everything possible to win the game. Russel Westbrook tore meniscus. The same type of injury that hurt Lin last year. He had to be out for the series. I think that it's a pretty coincidence.
    The Rox might as well pull out an upset in this series

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    1. At the time of Lin's torn meniscus the Knicks FO said they were disappointed that Lin would not play because 'it's the type of injury that many players play through the pain'.

      I wonder if WB will play later playoff games considering that OKC are genuine title contenders but Knicks were known as perennial bridesmaids?

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    2. When did NYK say that? Source?

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    3. Lin was not on contract with the Knicks next season. Should he play through injuries. At the beginning of the season, you did see the effect of injury on Lin.
      There is no point of even saying that Lin could play at all.
      The Knicks paid Lin peanuts and certainly could not expect Lin to risk further damages on his knee that could end a player's career. Lin has made the right decision considering the situation as an afterthought though.

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    4. Stop with the "Lin didn't play bc he didn't have a contract/was waiting for a new contract". He didn't play because he couldn't even touch the f.ucking rim! Do some of you even follow Jeremy Lin? If you did, you would have known what shape he was in last year.

      You're making things worse when you make those assumptions about Lin and his contract.

      Delete
    5. Fuck Mike Woodson. I guess he Russell Westbrook isn't the type of player that Woodson says "...have played through meniscus tears".

      Delete
  18. CP3 wasn't effective again, today. He came out hard in the first half and couldn't keep up in the second. Blake Griffin is a good player but he's overrated. Thank you Memphis.

    Bulls vs Nets was a damn good game. I did not expect the bulls to be up 3-1.

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    Replies
    1. CP3 drove in passed the ball to teammates who had wide open 3 pointers, but they just couldn't hit many open jumpers. Teams held their games at home. They are very evenly matched, but I like MEM more.

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    2. I don't think it's accurate to say CP3 could not keep up. He did his part and got many open looks for his teammates who could not knock down open jumpers. Now, could CP3 have decided to score more on his own? Yes, but he got his teammates open jumpers. Conley is very good PG, I have to say, definitely a worthy opponent to CP3.

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    3. If you're a superstar like everyone says CP3 is, you find a way to score, whether it be for yourself or your teammates, no matter what.

      Fans compare cp3 to lbj, so I expected more from cp3. Now I know why Del Negro managed CP3's minutes the way he did during the season.

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    4. He couldn't keep up, his stamina in the first half was noticeably different than it was in the 2nd.

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    5. Maybe CP3 did get tired somewhat, but he still got a load of open looks for his teammates. I also think it's unfair to compare CP3 to LeBron who is big and fast. LeBron is one level higher than CP3 any day, any time. CP3 has to conserve energy and pick his spot to be a hero. CP3 is a very sly or savvy player; he never over does anything and makes his teammates do the work. He actually seems to be playing at around 80% of his full capacity, so he gives off an impression that he's not playing very hard and could play harder or score more points. Also, MEM team is no slouch and plays hard on every play. CP3 stole one game from MEM already, but CP3 is no LeBron or even Durant. Also, CP3 is nowhere near a player like Allan Iverson when it comes to scoring.

      Delete
    6. Memphis has a good coach in Lionel Hollins...

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    7. CP3 is like Federer. They hardly seems to be sweating or breathing hard whey they play. I don't know if it's good or bad, but the guy seems like he could be drinking lemonade or text while he plays. Almost impossible to trap the guy.

      Delete
    8. Yeap, Lionel Hollins is a good coach, but even a good coach like Doc Rivers can't help Celtics win against Knicks. I am impressed by Chicago though, beating that sorry Brooklyn pretenders.

      Delete
    9. A LOT of fans in the NBA say that CP3 has the same type of impact on his team as LBJ does with his. I'm not invested in CP3 like you are but he is getting quite a bit of criticism from the Clippers' forums.

      CP3 scored 0 points in the 4th qtr. 0. His team was cold and he didn't try to score more, that entire qtr. Gotta give props to Gasol/Randolph and the rest of the team.

      Delete
    10. The Celtics weren't very good this year, even with Rondo. KG and PP are no where near the players they were, even from last year. I knew the series with NYK wasn't going to be very competitive.

      I'm rooting for Memphis. I've always liked Conley and well, I just want to see them beat the Clippers.

      Delete
    11. Don't get me wrong, CP3 is a great, great basketball player. I just expected more in the 4th quarter from him.

      Delete
    12. What do you think of Jeff Teague? I follow the Knicks and for awhile, fans were comparing Lin and Teague.

      Delete
    13. K. Smith, like I said, CP3 is, for good or bad, not a ball hogger. Jeff Teague has similar stats and percentages as Lin -- seems like a good comparison, except for the fact that Teague played well during 2 playoff games. Since Lin is not a fluid shooter, I think he just needs to develop a bread and butter scoring moves other than drive-ins or 3 pointers. Stop jumpers, dribble and step back jumpers, something. I don't think he needed or was pushed to develop those moves at Harvard, perhaps because he did not think he would ever play in NBA -- I don't know. I certainly think he can and should develop a more variety in his offensive moves, but I don't think it's that easy to add something to your repertoire at this high level.

      Ultimately, Lin's biggest positive is that he can make other players better, but if Mac doesn't give him a chance to do that for him, Lin will have a hard time becoming an All-Star level player.

      Delete
    14. I agree Celtics were too old this year. I guess Knicks took one bet to make a run this year. Knicks were playing very well. I gotta say Melo is one of top 3, if not the best, offensive players in NBA, along with Durant. He got around 4 moves that he can use to score against anyone. The only thing is sometimes he gets carried away and takes relatively bad shots. The difference between Melo and JR Smith is JR has only one bread and butter move, while Melo has several. Also, Melo is taller and bigger, so harder to guard. If I had Melo, I wouldn't make him play off the ball either. Felton is a decent PG also, as long as he doesn't think he's a super star. Honestly, if I were JR and I was getting paid less than $3 Million and I saw Lin get paid $24 Million over 3 years -- which is probably JR's goal -- I would get jealous also. JR is much more effective than Terry of Celtics. He deserves the 6th Man Award.

      Delete
    15. JR shouldn't have been jealous bc he didn't do s.hit to warrant a bigger contract until this year.

      Delete
  19. http://dailythunder.com/2013/04/russell-westbrook-to-undergo-surgery-on-meniscus-tear/

    Two things:
    1. Beverly nearly got his hands on the ball
    2. WB put out his right knee to prevent Bev from getting the steal or inflict damage to Bev's ribs.

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    Replies
    1. I don't know why they don't point out that a time-out had been called already, even though it might have been hard for Bev to stop going forward.

      Delete
    2. WB certainly was not a gentleman on the court; none of the Thunders were. Look at the bruises on Beverly's face and others. The ref were not doing their jobs and the game became rough and many elbows, knees, and grabbing were flying. Whoever started it was not even a concern. It was really obvious that the ref did not make calls that they should and players were hurt in bundles.
      If you actually wanted to point your fingers about the injury, the refs were responsible for the outcomes at large.

      Delete
    3. I am not at all pointing a finger at Bev. I am just saying a time-out was called and Bev probably did not hear it. That's the way Bev plays, and this particular incident had nothing to do with how the game was played. Even Bev said that he just plays at one speed: fast. Nothing dirty or intentional but a foul nevertheless.

      Delete
    4. Exactly. Going for the steal isn't the issue. It's that he lunged AFTER the whistle blew. I applaud Bev's "in-your-face" attitude, but that specific move is kind of bush league.

      In Bev's defense, as KHuang has said repeatedly, Beverley has very poor reaction times. So that's probably why he couldn't stop himself in time like most NBA PGs would have.

      But I can't lie...if I were an OKC fan, though, I'd be angry as heck. Can you imagine if OKC's backup PG Reggie Jackson did that to Jeremy? We'd be screaming our heads off demanding he be suspended ASAP.

      Delete
    5. @ Kwok. Bev is a fouling machine. It doesn't matter how the refs are calling the game, he would still be racking up fouls by reaching in and playing aggressive defense.

      Delete
    6. In case it wasn't already obvious by watching the games, the stats show that Bev and TD have the HIGHEST fouling rates among guards in the league.

      For guards averaging 15 minutes or more, Bev is TIED FOR NUMBER ONE in fouling rates: 4.6 personal fouls per 40 minutes. TD is at 4.5/40.

      http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/8290/32764294.png

      Any scrub can play aggressive defense if he is undisciplined like that. Also, unlike someone like Hinrich, Bev's fouls are pointless ones on the perimeter instead of stopping easy shots in the paint. What's the point of aggressive defense if you are giving the opposing team free trips to the foul line by putting them in the bonus early?



      Delete
    7. Good coaches like Popovich would never tolerate wasting fouls in so undisciplined a manner. But throughout the year, McHale has had no problems with Lin's backup -- either Bev or TD -- being a fouling machine. Another reason why he's a bad coach.

      Delete
    8. Bev probably did it to get under WB's skin, and he's probably right that that's how he plays normally; but it was a foul, no matter how you look at it. Not dirty or intentional, but a foul nevertheless. I would not have been surprised if the ref called a technical foul on him. I was actually surprised that no foul was called because a time-out had already been called. I don't know why people don't see the difference between this action and the video posted at CL site which shows WB going for a steal against Lin. In that situation, WB was going for a steal BEFORE a time-out was called, which is perfectly fine. Bev was going for a steal AFTER a time-out had been called. Bev's action was clearly a foul, whereas WB's attempt was not. Simple as that.

      Delete
    9. Not many of the replays show when the timeout was called, possibly due to the crowd noise or the official's low puff output (didn't blow loud enuff). But I think WB either didn't hear the whistle himself otherwise why put out his right knee?

      Karma?

      Delete
    10. Just curious, but why is there a lot of hate towards Beverley on this site? What has he done to Jeremy to deserve this? They seem like they have a good relationship and support each other. Was there something I missed that caused this hate towards Beverley to flare up?

      Delete
    11. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
    12. I do not dislike Bev. I just think he is a fringe backup player.

      Delete
    13. I have no idea why people don't like Bev, whether they think he's a backup player. The guy plays with his heart, and I personally think he's a very good back-up player worth having on your team.

      Delete
    14. Agree.. Bev plays hard 100% of the time and that's all you can ask of a player. Plus he helps Jlin to play well when they are on the court together..

      Delete
  20. According to some Ortiz dude on twitter. LIN IS PLAYING!!!! But idk how credible this guy is....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Clutchfans must be happy cuz they have a person whom they blame if Rox has a defeat !!

      Delete
    2. I sometimes watch CF same as I watch Serial Killers on tv. The PP (psychological profiling) of unemployed semi literate sadism of SKs and one liner poor spelling/mono syllabled trollers seems unnervingly similar.

      Delete
    3. U should see the comments on espn. Puts clutchfan to shame. Wow.

      Delete
    4. The amount of ghetto language, swearing and aggressiveness on such sites scares me sometimes. I don't sign in to the free ESPN forum, which I think should be banned for minors. Comments such as "PB I'm coming out to kill you" are too common.

      Delete
  21. I am in Toyota Center now. I see Lin's name on overhead screen, so look like he is playing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Have a fun time, HY

      [Hope he's ok enough to play.]

      Delete
    2. That's great news. Have a good one. I saw a pic of staff laying out the white t-shirts. The atmosphere must be amazing.

      Delete
    3. http://instagram.com/p/YoOFEzIn3C/

      Delete
    4. Only see beard & Del3no are shooting around, the staff said JLin usually doesn't come out for shootaround (but when I went to his MSG and Philly games, he did come out).

      It appears lots of fans here are beard's fans, I mean in terms of jersey numbers they wear.

      Delete
    5. The two games that I attended, Lin's shoot around with Finch got done before Harden and Delfino's shootarounds.

      Delete
  22. Jason Friedman ‏@JasonCFriedman
    McHale says he thinks Lin is "going to give it a shot tonight." Not sure about Greg smith's status.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm gonna temper my expectations...not expecting a great shooting night for Lin.

      Delete
    2. Jonathan Feigen ‏@Jonathan_Feigen
      Man, I nearly had a Twitter typo on the McHale quote about Lin effort to "give it a shot." Would not have been good. Caught in time.

      Mike K ‏@Zepp1978
      @Jonathan_Feigen The decision to put O & I next to one another on the keyboard was a poor decision.

      Delete
    3. I knew my boy would come thru. Thanks for not letting me down. I know he may not be 100% but noone on his team can match his court and situational awareness. I'm sure when the adrenaline kicks in, he will not feel much.

      Too bad for u guys I am have to stick around. Jeremy is telling me to post more.

      Delete
    4. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    5. K. Smith, are u ever happy ? Whether Lin plays well or not, I am ecstatic that he is showing up. Yes. Even me. Mr doom and gloom.

      Lighten up.

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    6. Now I understand why your a.ss gets banned from forums.

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    7. Awesome. It's just too big a game to miss.

      Even if he shoots poorly, he'll still be a positive defensively. And if he somehow can't even do that, then he can always sit and take the game off.

      Who knows? He might even play "better" with that injury. Adrenaline does crazy things to a player.

      Delete
  23. I will provide updates when I am available, if you mind my doing so from time to time.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Would appreciate your account of Lin McHale interaction during timeouts.

      Delete
    2. Do you see any fans wearing JLin jerseys?

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    3. Yes, there are people wearing Lin's jersey, but percentage wise, seems #13 are still more (use you guys' word - use eye test)

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  24. Jeremy Set to play tonight!

    http://www.nba.com/2013/news/04/27/rockets-lin-game-time-decision.ap/index.html

    ReplyDelete
  25. Going to try to find if Lin's parents or brothers are here, so far don't see any yet

    ReplyDelete
  26. I like Beverly and want to see him do well like I want everyone on the team do well. The better the team does, the better Jeremy will do. If the team does well, it will open things up for Jeremy.

    ReplyDelete