Who will claim the ultimate prize and win the 2016 NBA Championship?
First Round
Out West, the Spurs faced no issues to start off, easily sweeping past the Jazz, and would be joined by the Timberwolves in Round 2. Minnesota got an incredible 48 points from Kevin Durant to win Game 3, and then 30 more to clinch Game 4. The 3 seed Vancouver Grizzlies saw their defensive collapse against the underdog Warriors, who promptly sent Vancouver packing in a sweep thanks to the scoring duo of Ellis Carlisle and Julio McDaniels. Denver would also look for a big upset, stunning Dallas after winning Game 1, but the Mavericks quickly recovered to win the next 3 in a row and advance.
But in the East, the Hawks were not so fortunate in avoiding the upset, as the Celtics would push Atlanta all the way to 5, before stunning the home crowd as Eric Gordon dropped 30 and the best team in the NBA were sent packing. The unproven Orlando Magic were no match for the veteran Bulls, who dispatched of the Magic in 4 games, with Damien Baxter and Dwyane Wade combining for 68 points in the decisive Game 4. The 2nd and 3rd seed Pacers and Knicks would also be in danger of the upset, as both were pushed to Game 5. But the Knicks took out the defending champion Nets with stellar defense, while Klay Thompson out-dueled James Harden to secure Indiana's ticket.
Second Round
In a series that saw Chicago got in heavy favorites, the bookers should really have watched the first round, as Boston crushed the Bulls, who took 2 games but it wasn't enough. And in the other Eastern Conference series, Jimmy Butler, recently returned to New York, proved to be one of the best guards in the league. Butler completely neutralized Thompson, and Indiana never found a second scoring option, as they were sent packing in 5.
Out West, the top seeded Spurs looked good in Game 1, winning their fourth game in a row. But Kevin Durant had enough of that, and led the Timberwolves to their own four wins in a row, brushing San Antonio aside. Dallas was pushed to their limits against the feisty Warriors, who got all the way to overtime of Game 6 before Edwin Russell took charge, sending Golden State home.
Conference Finals
Despite a great playoff run, Boston's lack of starpower finally cost them in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics would quickly go down 3-0 with no one really stepping up to save them, though they did scrap out a couple wins, before finally being put down in Game 6 on their home floor, with Carmelo Anthony and Hassan Whiteside combining for 42 points.
In the Western Conference Finals, Dallas would win the first two games at home, though both wins were close. But Minnesota's stars came to play, as point guard Colin Braun dropped 35 in Game 3 and Kevin Durant went off for 40 in Game 4, both wins for the Timberwolves to even the series. The Mavericks backcourt responded well, as Russell and Stephen Curry combined for 53 points to win Game 5, but would be shut down in Game 6, as Pau Gasol scored 18 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to force a Game 7. With every home team victorious so far, Dallas had the advantage. Both teams struggled to score in a defensive slugfest, but in the end, the Timberwolves fell apart, scoring just 13 points in the 4th quarter as the Mavericks hung on to advance to their third NBA Finals appearance in The New Millennium.
NBA Finals
After third road losses against Minnesota, Dallas visited Madison Square Garden and erased their previous misfortunes, as guard Kenneth Nance provided 25 points off the bench in a Mavs victory. Game 2 was all defense, as everyone struggled to get open shots. But as always, Stephen Curry was the difference for Dallas, forcing seven turnovers from Chris Paul and hitting several clutch threes down the stretch for another road win.
But Paul responded well in Game 3, as he now forced Curry to miss every shot he took in the 4th quarter and set up his teammates with easy looks for a double digit win. Curry would have another poor shooting night in Game 4, which belonged to Hassan Whiteside. The former Marshall product dominated Al Jefferson in the paint, notching 26 points, 7 rebounds and 3 blocks as the Knicks held off a late Mavericks rally to tie the series.
With momentum in their corner, the Knicks were firing on all cylinders in Game 5. Both Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul had 10 assists, Anthony added on 28 points and New York withstood nine three-pointers from Curry to take a 3-2 lead.
The Mavericks were all out of sorts, and even a trip back home to Dallas couldn't solve their woes. The entire team struggled, Curry most of all who went 2-9 from downtown. And with the Mavericks' star in a slump, Melo took advantage, stealing the limelight. Anthony dropped 36 points and added on another 10 assists, finishing just one rebound short of a triple-double. Dallas had no answer, and would be completely sunk when young Jimmy Butler outran the entire team on an incredible coast-to-coast lay-up that proved to be a defining moment of the series. The Mavericks fans watched on as Anthony, Paul, Whiteside and Butler, many of whom are considered bad boys and troublemakers by modern NBA fans, took over basketball's biggest stage. Anthony took the final inbound, and from half the country away, you could just about hear the masses in the Big Apple began to celebrate. The New York Knicks are your 2016 NBA Champions!
NBA Finals MVP: Carmelo Anthony(22.5 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 5.2 apg)
A huge victory, not just for guys like Anthony and Paul whose careers have been defined by failing to even sniff a ring, but for Knicks fans who have suffered through many years of agony, both in real life and in this game. The Knicks were The New Millennium's very first runner-up; it seems only fair as this series winds to a close, they finally get their title. Join me next time on The New Millennium for the 2016 offseason.
Friday, September 6, 2019
Thursday, September 5, 2019
NBA 2k19: The New Millennium(Watch the Throne)
(Henry's Note- I actually did the trades for the 2015-2016 season a long time ago, so I've forgotten some of the reasoning behind several moves. Instead of doing a big trade post, I'll just summarize the big moves now)
In the biggest trade before the season started, the Hornets acquired PG Tony Parker(95 OVR) from the Pelicans as New Orleans received several players and two first round picks in exchange. Several big name centers switched teams, including Joel Embiid(88 OVR, 91 Potential) to the Wizards for SG Dane Grimes(89 OVR) which saw Washington flip Al Jefferson(89 OVR) to Dallas for a couple first round picks. Finally, longtime Clipper Pau Gasol(93 OVR) finally left LA, as he joins Kevin Durant(98 OVR) in Minnesota.
Last time on The New Millennium, the Kings completed a quick retooling, trading for Joe Johnson and picking up Devin Booker in the 2015 Draft. Plus, the Bucks used their first and third picks to load up their frontcourt, selecting Karl-Anthony Towns and Kristaps Porzingis. How will these moves, plus the trades made earlier, affect the 2015-2016 regular season?
Eastern Conference
1. Atlanta Hawks(59-23)
2. Indiana Pacers(58-24)
3. New York Knicks(56-26)
4. Orlando Magic(50-32)
5. Chicago Bulls(48-34)
6. New Jersey Nets(46-36)
7. Charlotte Hornets(46-36)
8. Boston Celtics(46-36)
9. Miami Heat(43-39)
10. Detroit Pistons(39-43)
11. Philadelphia 76ers(35-47)
12. Milwaukee Bucks(33-49)
13. Cleveland Cavaliers(32-50)
14. Toronto Raptors(32-50)
15. Washington Wizards(19-63)
The Hawks, Pacers and Knicks all went hard for the top spot in the East and the league, but in the end Atlanta won out as LeBron James(22.3 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 6.6 apg) took home his second MVP. Orlando enjoyed a breakout season thanks to the wing scoring tandem of J.J. Redick(17.6 ppg) and Javier Sanchez(18.5 ppg). The Hornets were a little inconsistent throughout the year, but got hot at the end to solidify a playoff spot, while Miami were unfortunate to miss out on the postseason with a winning record. Milwaukee added 14 wins with new rookies Porzingis(17 ppg, 5.6 rpg) and Towns(12.1 ppg, 8.7 rpg) both making 1st team All-Rookie. The gap between the largely mediocre teams and the basement was massive this year, as the Wizards lost their first 21 games, but did at least have Rookie of the Year winner Joel Embiid(16.5 ppg, 10.4 rpg).
Western Conference
1. San Antonio Spurs(56-26)
2. Dallas Mavericks(53-29)
3. Vancouver Grizzlies(50-32)
4. Phoenix Suns(47-35)
5. Minnesota Timberwolves(47-35)
6. Golden State Warriors(41-41)
7. Denver Nuggets(38-44)
8. Utah Jazz(38-44)
9. Houston Rockets(38-44)
10. Portland Trail Blazers(36-46)
11. New Orleans Pelicans(34-48)
12. Sacramento Kings(33-49)
13. Los Angeles Lakers(28-54)
14. Seattle SuperSonics(26-56)
15. Los Angeles Clippers(23-59)
San Antonio and Dallas continue to dominate the West, with the Spurs coming out on top this year. Behind them, Vancouver and Phoenix surprisingly took the next two spots, thanks to breakout seasons from Marvin Williams(17.6 ppg) and Perry Drew(20.3 ppg) respectively. For Minnesota, new acquisition Pau Gasol(13.1 ppg, 10.6 rpg) had a fine season though he continues to show his age, and Houston suffered a tough loss on the final day to end their playoff hopes. The Pelicans enjoyed an incredible campaign from Bradley Beal(25.5 ppg) who provides hope with no more Tony Parker, and Sacramento began the slow move up the standings with a solid year from Joe Johnson(19.1 ppg). The Lakers and Clippers were as bad as anticipated, but Seattle continues to confound, losing 14 more games than last year and putting forth one of the worst defenses in the league.
Awards
MVP: LeBron James, Atlanta Hawks
Rookie of the Year: Joel Embiid, Washington Wizards
Sixth Man: Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers
Defensive Player: Willie Lewis, Boston Celtics
Most Improved: Zach King, Philadelphia 76ers
Coach of the Year: Mike Budenholzer, Atlanta Hawks
With three legit contenders in the East and two more in the West, will it be one of the Hawks, Pacers, Knicks, Spurs or Mavericks who claim the title? Once again in the playoffs, can the Nets prove they still have what it takes in their title defense? Or will one of these lesser teams surprise everyone? Find out next time on The New Millennium!
In the biggest trade before the season started, the Hornets acquired PG Tony Parker(95 OVR) from the Pelicans as New Orleans received several players and two first round picks in exchange. Several big name centers switched teams, including Joel Embiid(88 OVR, 91 Potential) to the Wizards for SG Dane Grimes(89 OVR) which saw Washington flip Al Jefferson(89 OVR) to Dallas for a couple first round picks. Finally, longtime Clipper Pau Gasol(93 OVR) finally left LA, as he joins Kevin Durant(98 OVR) in Minnesota.
Last time on The New Millennium, the Kings completed a quick retooling, trading for Joe Johnson and picking up Devin Booker in the 2015 Draft. Plus, the Bucks used their first and third picks to load up their frontcourt, selecting Karl-Anthony Towns and Kristaps Porzingis. How will these moves, plus the trades made earlier, affect the 2015-2016 regular season?
Eastern Conference
1. Atlanta Hawks(59-23)
2. Indiana Pacers(58-24)
3. New York Knicks(56-26)
4. Orlando Magic(50-32)
5. Chicago Bulls(48-34)
6. New Jersey Nets(46-36)
7. Charlotte Hornets(46-36)
8. Boston Celtics(46-36)
9. Miami Heat(43-39)
10. Detroit Pistons(39-43)
11. Philadelphia 76ers(35-47)
12. Milwaukee Bucks(33-49)
13. Cleveland Cavaliers(32-50)
14. Toronto Raptors(32-50)
15. Washington Wizards(19-63)
The Hawks, Pacers and Knicks all went hard for the top spot in the East and the league, but in the end Atlanta won out as LeBron James(22.3 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 6.6 apg) took home his second MVP. Orlando enjoyed a breakout season thanks to the wing scoring tandem of J.J. Redick(17.6 ppg) and Javier Sanchez(18.5 ppg). The Hornets were a little inconsistent throughout the year, but got hot at the end to solidify a playoff spot, while Miami were unfortunate to miss out on the postseason with a winning record. Milwaukee added 14 wins with new rookies Porzingis(17 ppg, 5.6 rpg) and Towns(12.1 ppg, 8.7 rpg) both making 1st team All-Rookie. The gap between the largely mediocre teams and the basement was massive this year, as the Wizards lost their first 21 games, but did at least have Rookie of the Year winner Joel Embiid(16.5 ppg, 10.4 rpg).
Western Conference
1. San Antonio Spurs(56-26)
2. Dallas Mavericks(53-29)
3. Vancouver Grizzlies(50-32)
4. Phoenix Suns(47-35)
5. Minnesota Timberwolves(47-35)
6. Golden State Warriors(41-41)
7. Denver Nuggets(38-44)
8. Utah Jazz(38-44)
9. Houston Rockets(38-44)
10. Portland Trail Blazers(36-46)
11. New Orleans Pelicans(34-48)
12. Sacramento Kings(33-49)
13. Los Angeles Lakers(28-54)
14. Seattle SuperSonics(26-56)
15. Los Angeles Clippers(23-59)
San Antonio and Dallas continue to dominate the West, with the Spurs coming out on top this year. Behind them, Vancouver and Phoenix surprisingly took the next two spots, thanks to breakout seasons from Marvin Williams(17.6 ppg) and Perry Drew(20.3 ppg) respectively. For Minnesota, new acquisition Pau Gasol(13.1 ppg, 10.6 rpg) had a fine season though he continues to show his age, and Houston suffered a tough loss on the final day to end their playoff hopes. The Pelicans enjoyed an incredible campaign from Bradley Beal(25.5 ppg) who provides hope with no more Tony Parker, and Sacramento began the slow move up the standings with a solid year from Joe Johnson(19.1 ppg). The Lakers and Clippers were as bad as anticipated, but Seattle continues to confound, losing 14 more games than last year and putting forth one of the worst defenses in the league.
Awards
MVP: LeBron James, Atlanta Hawks
Rookie of the Year: Joel Embiid, Washington Wizards
Sixth Man: Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers
Defensive Player: Willie Lewis, Boston Celtics
Most Improved: Zach King, Philadelphia 76ers
Coach of the Year: Mike Budenholzer, Atlanta Hawks
With three legit contenders in the East and two more in the West, will it be one of the Hawks, Pacers, Knicks, Spurs or Mavericks who claim the title? Once again in the playoffs, can the Nets prove they still have what it takes in their title defense? Or will one of these lesser teams surprise everyone? Find out next time on The New Millennium!
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
A Quick Update on The New Millennium
I haven't posted here in about two weeks, but I do want to assure you that I'm still planning on finishing up The New Millennium. Right now I'm just focusing on my main blog and Henry's Universe Mode, so I don't have the time or energy to work on anything else. However, in September, football season starts and Henry's Universe Mode content will be all caught up, so I'll have nothing to post over there except for The Dog League. So, near the end of August or the start of September, The New Millennium will return, and the plan is to finish up the final few seasons before October begins and the next NBA season starts. Hopefully you'll stay patient- we're almost at the end.
- Henry
- Henry
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
NBA 2k19: The New Millennium(Cream City)
Last time on The New Millennium, Jason Richardson and Jamaal Teague led the Nets to their third title in six years, becoming the first team in this series to lift the Larry O'Brien Trophy three times. Now, the offseason is upon us and changes are coming.
Player Retirements
Biding farewell to the NBA this year were the likes of Shawn Marion, Baron Davis, Elton Brand, Jamal Crawford, Jayden Stafford, Mike Miller, Coty Porter and Quinn Park. Brand would later be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Draft Lottery
The Bucks and Kings are two teams that have not fared well in recent years, but smart trading may have changed their fortunes. The Bucks got the first pick from the Raptors, while the Kings will draft second thanks to the Clippers. The Bucks will also have the third pick, the Kings have the fourth and the interloper Cavaliers pick fifth. Sacramento also has the eleventh, fourteenth and twenty-ninth picks, making this an incredibly busy draft for them.
- The Sacramento Kings trade the 2015 4th and 29th picks to the Los Angeles Lakers for SF Joe Johnson(93 OVR)-
Eager to begin rebuilding in earnest, the Lakers trade away their best player in Joe Johnson, who now gets a fresh start in Sacramento, who still have the 2nd, 11th and 14th picks. Johnson is now 34, and is signed on for 4 more years on a massive deal. It is a risky deal for the Kings, but one they hope will kickstart a speedy rebuild.
2015 NBA Draft
1. C Karl-Anthony Towns, Milwaukee Bucks(Milwaukee will now attempt to build around KAT)
2. SG Devin Booker, Sacramento Kings(A very good fit to go alongside Joe Johnson)
3. PF Kristaps Porzingis, Milwaukee Bucks(Now that's a very scary looking frontcourt)
4. SG Theo Watts, Los Angeles Lakers
5. SG Mario Hezonja, Cleveland Cavaliers(Cleveland, what are you doing?)
6. C Myles Turner, Los Angeles Lakers(Good value pick)
7. PG D'Angelo Russell, Phoenix Suns(A solid replacement for John Wall)
8. C Jahlil Okafor, Denver Nuggets
9. PF Frank Kaminsky, Washington Wizards(They probably think he's the next Dirk. That's hilarious)
10. PG Emmanuel Mudiay, New Orleans Pelicans
11. C Willie Cauley-Stein, Sacramento Kings(Another player goes back to his irl team)
12. PF Trey Lyles, Miami Heat
13. SF Justise Winslow, Charlotte Hornets
14. PG Tyus Jones, Sacramento Kings
15. SF Josh Richardson, Houston Rockets
18. PG Andrew Harrison, Portland Trail Blazers
21. SF Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Utah Jazz
23. PG Terry Rozier, Los Angeles Clippers
24. PG Jerian Grant, Utah Jazz
25. PG Delon Wright, Boston Celtics
27. PF Bobby Portis, Indiana Pacers
28. SF Stanley Johnson, Dallas Mavericks
29. SF Justin Anderson, Los Angeles Lakers
30. C Richaun Holmes, New Jersey Nets
32. SG Pat Connaughton, Los Angeles Clippers
33. SG Cedi Osman, Vancouver Grizzlies
34. SF Norman Powell, Sacramento Kings
38. SF Sam Dekker, Los Angeles Lakers
40. SF Kelly Oubre Jr., San Antonio Spurs
42. PF Kevon Looney, Atlanta Hawks
43. PF Jordan Mickey, Houston Rockets
46. PG Cameron Payne, Minnesota Timberwolves
Free Agency
Here are the players that switched teams in free agency:
PF Orlando Barbosa(85 OVR), Cleveland Cavaliers, 3 years, 37 million dollars
C Brandan Wright(85 OVR), Vancouver Grizzlies, 4 years, 46 million dollars
PG Ross Dillon(85 OVR), Charlotte Hornets, 4 years, 38 million dollars
PF Drew Gooden(85 OVR), Los Angeles Lakers, 4 years, 56 million dollars
PG Raymond Felton(85 OVR), Los Angeles Lakers, 4 years, 33 million dollars
2016 Draft Preview
Right now, the undisputed top pick appears to be Ben Simmons, though I've learned not to put too much stock into the early season mock drafts. There are a lot of guards scheduled to go after him, including Kris Dunn, Malcolm Brogdon, Jaylen Brown, Buddy Hield and Jamal Murry, in addition to Brandon Ingram. This seems to be a very weak draft for quality big men, with the top projected forward being Skal Labissiere outside of the lottery.
Top Unsigned Players
(Henry's Note- At this point, most teams are having tons of cap issues, meaning lots of top players will not be signed in free agency. Let's take a look at who is still left)
PG John Wall(93 OVR)
SG Lenny Park(91 OVR)
SG Lou Williams(90 OVR)
SF Gordon Hayward(90 OVR)
SG Edwin Russell(89 OVR)
SF Danilo Gallinari(88 OVR)
SG Danny Green(88 OVR)
PG Ricky Rubio(87 OVR)
SG Jimmy Butler(87 OVR)
PF Derrick Favors(86 OVR)
PG Jerryd Bayless(85 OVR)
SF Evan Turner(85 OVR)
PF Al-Farouq Aminu(85 OVR)
SF Brandon Rush(85 OVR)
Player Retirements
Biding farewell to the NBA this year were the likes of Shawn Marion, Baron Davis, Elton Brand, Jamal Crawford, Jayden Stafford, Mike Miller, Coty Porter and Quinn Park. Brand would later be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Draft Lottery
The Bucks and Kings are two teams that have not fared well in recent years, but smart trading may have changed their fortunes. The Bucks got the first pick from the Raptors, while the Kings will draft second thanks to the Clippers. The Bucks will also have the third pick, the Kings have the fourth and the interloper Cavaliers pick fifth. Sacramento also has the eleventh, fourteenth and twenty-ninth picks, making this an incredibly busy draft for them.
- The Sacramento Kings trade the 2015 4th and 29th picks to the Los Angeles Lakers for SF Joe Johnson(93 OVR)-
Eager to begin rebuilding in earnest, the Lakers trade away their best player in Joe Johnson, who now gets a fresh start in Sacramento, who still have the 2nd, 11th and 14th picks. Johnson is now 34, and is signed on for 4 more years on a massive deal. It is a risky deal for the Kings, but one they hope will kickstart a speedy rebuild.
2015 NBA Draft
1. C Karl-Anthony Towns, Milwaukee Bucks(Milwaukee will now attempt to build around KAT)
2. SG Devin Booker, Sacramento Kings(A very good fit to go alongside Joe Johnson)
3. PF Kristaps Porzingis, Milwaukee Bucks(Now that's a very scary looking frontcourt)
4. SG Theo Watts, Los Angeles Lakers
5. SG Mario Hezonja, Cleveland Cavaliers(Cleveland, what are you doing?)
6. C Myles Turner, Los Angeles Lakers(Good value pick)
7. PG D'Angelo Russell, Phoenix Suns(A solid replacement for John Wall)
8. C Jahlil Okafor, Denver Nuggets
9. PF Frank Kaminsky, Washington Wizards(They probably think he's the next Dirk. That's hilarious)
10. PG Emmanuel Mudiay, New Orleans Pelicans
11. C Willie Cauley-Stein, Sacramento Kings(Another player goes back to his irl team)
12. PF Trey Lyles, Miami Heat
13. SF Justise Winslow, Charlotte Hornets
14. PG Tyus Jones, Sacramento Kings
15. SF Josh Richardson, Houston Rockets
18. PG Andrew Harrison, Portland Trail Blazers
21. SF Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Utah Jazz
23. PG Terry Rozier, Los Angeles Clippers
24. PG Jerian Grant, Utah Jazz
25. PG Delon Wright, Boston Celtics
27. PF Bobby Portis, Indiana Pacers
28. SF Stanley Johnson, Dallas Mavericks
29. SF Justin Anderson, Los Angeles Lakers
30. C Richaun Holmes, New Jersey Nets
32. SG Pat Connaughton, Los Angeles Clippers
33. SG Cedi Osman, Vancouver Grizzlies
34. SF Norman Powell, Sacramento Kings
38. SF Sam Dekker, Los Angeles Lakers
40. SF Kelly Oubre Jr., San Antonio Spurs
42. PF Kevon Looney, Atlanta Hawks
43. PF Jordan Mickey, Houston Rockets
46. PG Cameron Payne, Minnesota Timberwolves
Free Agency
Here are the players that switched teams in free agency:
PF Orlando Barbosa(85 OVR), Cleveland Cavaliers, 3 years, 37 million dollars
C Brandan Wright(85 OVR), Vancouver Grizzlies, 4 years, 46 million dollars
PG Ross Dillon(85 OVR), Charlotte Hornets, 4 years, 38 million dollars
PF Drew Gooden(85 OVR), Los Angeles Lakers, 4 years, 56 million dollars
PG Raymond Felton(85 OVR), Los Angeles Lakers, 4 years, 33 million dollars
2016 Draft Preview
Right now, the undisputed top pick appears to be Ben Simmons, though I've learned not to put too much stock into the early season mock drafts. There are a lot of guards scheduled to go after him, including Kris Dunn, Malcolm Brogdon, Jaylen Brown, Buddy Hield and Jamal Murry, in addition to Brandon Ingram. This seems to be a very weak draft for quality big men, with the top projected forward being Skal Labissiere outside of the lottery.
Top Unsigned Players
(Henry's Note- At this point, most teams are having tons of cap issues, meaning lots of top players will not be signed in free agency. Let's take a look at who is still left)
PG John Wall(93 OVR)
SG Lenny Park(91 OVR)
SG Lou Williams(90 OVR)
SF Gordon Hayward(90 OVR)
SG Edwin Russell(89 OVR)
SF Danilo Gallinari(88 OVR)
SG Danny Green(88 OVR)
PG Ricky Rubio(87 OVR)
SG Jimmy Butler(87 OVR)
PF Derrick Favors(86 OVR)
PG Jerryd Bayless(85 OVR)
SF Evan Turner(85 OVR)
PF Al-Farouq Aminu(85 OVR)
SF Brandon Rush(85 OVR)
Monday, July 15, 2019
NBA 2k19: The New Millennium(Dynatic Visions)
Last time on The New Millennium, the Mavericks and Nets continued to rule the roost, but new challengers arose, including powerful duos in New York and San Antonio. With only four more rings left to be handed out, who will claim the ultimate prize and win the 2015 NBA Championship?
First Round
Out West, the Mavericks had no issues in the first round, only dropping one game to the Rockets. The Grizzlies were in for a much tougher test, but did just manage to take down the Trail Blazers, as Albert Ruffin and Marvin Williams combined for 45 points to win the decisive Game 5. The Jazz demolished the Warriors to advance, and in a shocker, the SuperSonics proved to be too deep for the Spurs to handle as Seattle progressed in a sweep.
In the East, the Nets swept the Magic, and would be joined in the second round by the Hawks. Atlanta had a much tougher time against the Celtics, as LeBron struggled for consistency, forcing Anton Kozlov to step up and lead the team to victory in Game 5. The Pacers were also in for a hard-fought five game battle with the defending champion Bulls. In Game 5, Indiana's stifling defense came to the rescue, holding Chicago to just 35% shooting in a 13 point win. In another shocking upset, the Knicks would go down in 4 to the Pistons, as Carmelo Anthony was held to one bad shooting night after another by defensive ace Nelson Cassell.
Second Round
Consistency issues continued to plague LeBron in the second round, and the Hawks would be left to fight without him on some nights. Still, what James could offer was enough to push New Jersey all the way to seven, before he was held to a woeful 5-18 shooting night in Game 7 that saw the Nets advance. Joining New Jersey in the Eastern Conference Finals would be the Indiana Pacers, who survived an incredible battle with the Pistons. Detroit got all the way to 7, and in Game 7, Russell Westbrook was on fire, logging 38 points, 11 assists and 5 steals, but it wasn't enough, as Tyreke Evans scored 20 crucial points off the bench and Indiana survived.
The Dallas Mavericks would also survive a tough battle with the Grizzlies, as Rajon Rondo's excellent defense held Stephen Curry in check for most of the series. But in Game 7, Curry hit 8 threes to the tune of 41 points and a decisive Mavericks victory. The Western Conference would feature another great point guard duel, as Kemba Walker and the Jazz faced Damian Lillard and his SuperSonics. Lillard struggled early in the series, scoring only 7 total points in Games 1 and 2, but rebounded quickly, never scoring less than 18 the rest of the way, as Seattle pulled off another upset in 6.
Conference Finals
It seemed evident that Stephen Curry was tiring over the course of the playoffs, as he was constantly asked to play 45+ minutes a game. But whatever fatigue he was feeling, he did not show it, as he completely embarrassed Damian Lillard in the Western Conference Finals. The young Lillard never stood a chance against the three time MVP, and Seattle was swept.
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Nets would jump out to a quick 3-1 lead, as Jamaal Teague continued to pad his resume with one dominant performance after another. But in Game 5 in New Jersey, Klay Thompson saved the Pacers with 33 points to send the series back to Indianapolis. Any home court advantage the Pacers had was wiped out in the 3rd quarter, as the Nets held the Pacers to just 8 points and 76 overall in a dominant win. With that, the top two seed advanced to the NBA Finals for a rematch of the 2011 Championship.
NBA Finals
This rematch between the Mavericks and the Nets kicked off the right way in Game 1, with a shoot-out between Stephen Curry and Rudy Gay. Curry outscored Gay, 43-30, but Rudy won the war as New Jersey drew first blood. But the Mavericks stole home court advantage in Game 2, as Clifton Davenport's 29 points were enough to tie up the series.
Game 3 would also go to the Mavericks, as veteran shooting guard Kenneth Nance had himself a night with 34 points in the win. After watching his backcourt partner go off, Stephen Curry took control of Game 4, scoring 48 points and notching 15 assists. But unfortunately for him, the Nets made a late comeback to force overtime, where New Jersey dominated to once again even up the series.
Game 5 was a thriller, as the Mavericks would hold an early lead, only for the Nets to make another comeback. Down 3 late, Roland Snow's long range effort would just rattle out of the rim, and Dallas hung on to head back home, one win away from another title.
Game 6 was another fantastic contest, as Stephen Curry fought desperately to win another ring. In the end, Curry's 37 points were not enough, as Kenneth Nance missed a crucial late lay-up and the Nets would win by 5 to head back home for Game 7.
But Game 7 was another story completely, as Curry would get into early foul trouble. Completely spent physically and emotionally, Curry fouled out after just 20 minutes on the floor, and the reigning MVP was forced to watch from the bench. With their leader gone, the Mavericks fell apart, and Jason Richardson turned back the clock. As the New Jersey fans went wild for their wizened hero, Richardson poured it on, finishing with 30 points. The final minutes were filled with nothing but "Rich!" chants, as the crowd paid respect to one of the defining icons of The New Millennium. It was an emphatic 16 point win in the end, as the confetti once again fell in the Barclays Center(pretend it's in New Jersey). The New Jersey Nets are your 2015 NBA Champions!
NBA Finals MVP: Jamaal Teague(18.7 ppg, 10.6 rpg)
Somehow, this series has made Jason Richardson into a hero of New Jersey basketball and one of the greatest players in NBA history, and that is absolutely amazing. Richardson was one of my favorite players to watch, and someone who definitely deserves the legacy that he has been given in this fictional reality. Join me next time on The New Millennium for the 2015 offseason.
First Round
Out West, the Mavericks had no issues in the first round, only dropping one game to the Rockets. The Grizzlies were in for a much tougher test, but did just manage to take down the Trail Blazers, as Albert Ruffin and Marvin Williams combined for 45 points to win the decisive Game 5. The Jazz demolished the Warriors to advance, and in a shocker, the SuperSonics proved to be too deep for the Spurs to handle as Seattle progressed in a sweep.
In the East, the Nets swept the Magic, and would be joined in the second round by the Hawks. Atlanta had a much tougher time against the Celtics, as LeBron struggled for consistency, forcing Anton Kozlov to step up and lead the team to victory in Game 5. The Pacers were also in for a hard-fought five game battle with the defending champion Bulls. In Game 5, Indiana's stifling defense came to the rescue, holding Chicago to just 35% shooting in a 13 point win. In another shocking upset, the Knicks would go down in 4 to the Pistons, as Carmelo Anthony was held to one bad shooting night after another by defensive ace Nelson Cassell.
Second Round
Consistency issues continued to plague LeBron in the second round, and the Hawks would be left to fight without him on some nights. Still, what James could offer was enough to push New Jersey all the way to seven, before he was held to a woeful 5-18 shooting night in Game 7 that saw the Nets advance. Joining New Jersey in the Eastern Conference Finals would be the Indiana Pacers, who survived an incredible battle with the Pistons. Detroit got all the way to 7, and in Game 7, Russell Westbrook was on fire, logging 38 points, 11 assists and 5 steals, but it wasn't enough, as Tyreke Evans scored 20 crucial points off the bench and Indiana survived.
The Dallas Mavericks would also survive a tough battle with the Grizzlies, as Rajon Rondo's excellent defense held Stephen Curry in check for most of the series. But in Game 7, Curry hit 8 threes to the tune of 41 points and a decisive Mavericks victory. The Western Conference would feature another great point guard duel, as Kemba Walker and the Jazz faced Damian Lillard and his SuperSonics. Lillard struggled early in the series, scoring only 7 total points in Games 1 and 2, but rebounded quickly, never scoring less than 18 the rest of the way, as Seattle pulled off another upset in 6.
Conference Finals
It seemed evident that Stephen Curry was tiring over the course of the playoffs, as he was constantly asked to play 45+ minutes a game. But whatever fatigue he was feeling, he did not show it, as he completely embarrassed Damian Lillard in the Western Conference Finals. The young Lillard never stood a chance against the three time MVP, and Seattle was swept.
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Nets would jump out to a quick 3-1 lead, as Jamaal Teague continued to pad his resume with one dominant performance after another. But in Game 5 in New Jersey, Klay Thompson saved the Pacers with 33 points to send the series back to Indianapolis. Any home court advantage the Pacers had was wiped out in the 3rd quarter, as the Nets held the Pacers to just 8 points and 76 overall in a dominant win. With that, the top two seed advanced to the NBA Finals for a rematch of the 2011 Championship.
NBA Finals
This rematch between the Mavericks and the Nets kicked off the right way in Game 1, with a shoot-out between Stephen Curry and Rudy Gay. Curry outscored Gay, 43-30, but Rudy won the war as New Jersey drew first blood. But the Mavericks stole home court advantage in Game 2, as Clifton Davenport's 29 points were enough to tie up the series.
Game 3 would also go to the Mavericks, as veteran shooting guard Kenneth Nance had himself a night with 34 points in the win. After watching his backcourt partner go off, Stephen Curry took control of Game 4, scoring 48 points and notching 15 assists. But unfortunately for him, the Nets made a late comeback to force overtime, where New Jersey dominated to once again even up the series.
Game 5 was a thriller, as the Mavericks would hold an early lead, only for the Nets to make another comeback. Down 3 late, Roland Snow's long range effort would just rattle out of the rim, and Dallas hung on to head back home, one win away from another title.
Game 6 was another fantastic contest, as Stephen Curry fought desperately to win another ring. In the end, Curry's 37 points were not enough, as Kenneth Nance missed a crucial late lay-up and the Nets would win by 5 to head back home for Game 7.
But Game 7 was another story completely, as Curry would get into early foul trouble. Completely spent physically and emotionally, Curry fouled out after just 20 minutes on the floor, and the reigning MVP was forced to watch from the bench. With their leader gone, the Mavericks fell apart, and Jason Richardson turned back the clock. As the New Jersey fans went wild for their wizened hero, Richardson poured it on, finishing with 30 points. The final minutes were filled with nothing but "Rich!" chants, as the crowd paid respect to one of the defining icons of The New Millennium. It was an emphatic 16 point win in the end, as the confetti once again fell in the Barclays Center(pretend it's in New Jersey). The New Jersey Nets are your 2015 NBA Champions!
NBA Finals MVP: Jamaal Teague(18.7 ppg, 10.6 rpg)
Somehow, this series has made Jason Richardson into a hero of New Jersey basketball and one of the greatest players in NBA history, and that is absolutely amazing. Richardson was one of my favorite players to watch, and someone who definitely deserves the legacy that he has been given in this fictional reality. Join me next time on The New Millennium for the 2015 offseason.
Sunday, July 14, 2019
NBA 2k19: The New Millennium(Tri-State)
Last time on The New Millennium, Dwyane Wade led the Chicago Bulls to capture the 2014 NBA Championship, and the Cleveland Cavaliers won the lottery. They would shockingly select Marcus Smart first overall, before taking Nikola Jokic with the fourth pick. Jabari Parker was taken by the Nuggets, Andrew Wiggins went to Milwaukee and Joel Embiid joined Paul George and Giannis in Toronto. In free agency, James Harden was the headliner as he signed with the Charlotte Hornets, though the likes of John Wall, Gordon Hayward and Lou Williams are still available. Finally, the Kings blew up their team before the season started, as Chris Paul was sent to New York to team up with Carmelo Anthony and Sherman Conway went to Philly. How will all of these changes affect the 2014-2015 Season?
Eastern Conference
1. New Jersey Nets(56-26)
2. New York Knicks(55-27)
3. Indiana Pacers(51-31)
4. Atlanta Hawks(49-33)
5. Boston Celtics(49-33)
6. Chicago Bulls(48-34)
7. Detroit Pistons(44-38)
8. Orlando Magic(43-39)
9. Philadelphia 76ers(43-39)
10. Charlotte Hornets(41-41)
11. Miami Heat(38-44)
12. Washington Wizards(36-46)
13. Cleveland Cavaliers(34-48)
14. Toronto Raptors(31-51)
15. Milwaukee Bucks(19-63)
Once again, the Nets are the best team in the East, although they got a heck of a challenge from the new "superteam" in the Big Apple. Most of the other qualifiers are the usual suspects, except for the Orlando Magic, who made the playoffs for the first time in years thanks to a breakout campaign from small forward Javier Sanchez(17.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg). Philly were unfortunate to miss out thanks to a tiebreaker on head to head record, even after bringing back Lou Williams(17.8 ppg). Charlotte also missed out despite an excellent year from new star James Harden(24.3 ppg, 8.9 apg), and clearly need a secondary star. Miami still can't get their act together, and Cleveland struggled thanks to the incredibly unwise decision to bench young Kyrie Irving. And poor Milwaukee thought they could contend, and traded away a first round pick for Marion Geiger(14.7 ppg, 10.2 rpg) though at least the pick was top ten protected.
Western Conference
1. Dallas Mavericks(51-31)
2. San Antonio Spurs(48-34)
3. Utah Jazz(47-35)
4. Vancouver Grizzlies(47-35)
5. Portland Trail Blazers(42-40)
6. Golden State Warriors(41-41)
7. Seattle SuperSonics(40-42)
8. Houston Rockets(39-43)
9. New Orleans Pelicans(37-45)
10. Minnesota Timberwolves(37-45)
11. Denver Nuggets(36-46)
12. Phoenix Suns(35-47)
13. Los Angeles Lakers(35-47)
14. Sacramento Kings(32-50)
15. Los Angeles Clippers(26-56)
It was no surprise to see Dallas atop the standings this year, as Stephen Curry(29.4 ppg, 12 apg) had his best season yet en route to a third MVP. More shocking was the meteoric rise of the Spurs, as Kawhi Leonard(23.8 ppg) and Kevin Love(21.7 ppg) formed a devastating one-two punch. Portland could be a title contender this year thanks to new signing John Wall(20.9 ppg, 6.2 apg), while improved defense and better communication got Seattle back on track. Meanwhile, the aging core in New Orleans are clearly on the decline, and Minnesota struggled without Kevin Garnett's interior defense despite a tremendous year from Kevin Durant(30 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 5.2 apg). For the first time in The New Millennium, the Lakers did not make the playoffs, as Kobe Bryant(15.3 ppg) continues to decline. The other LA team certainly did not pick up the slack, as the Clippers finished in dead last and desperately need some sign of hope on the horizon. And up in Sacramento, the Kings were as bad as expected, but did get a very good year from young Julius Randle(14.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg).
Awards
MVP: Stephen Curry, Dallas Mavericks
Rookie of the Year: Julius Randle, Sacramento Kings
Sixth Man: Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers
Defensive Player: Willie Lewis, Boston Celtics
Most Improved: Kevin Love, San Antonio Spurs
Coach of the Year: Lionel Hollins, New Jersey Nets
Join me next time on The New Millennium for the crowning of the 2015 NBA Champions.
Eastern Conference
1. New Jersey Nets(56-26)
2. New York Knicks(55-27)
3. Indiana Pacers(51-31)
4. Atlanta Hawks(49-33)
5. Boston Celtics(49-33)
6. Chicago Bulls(48-34)
7. Detroit Pistons(44-38)
8. Orlando Magic(43-39)
9. Philadelphia 76ers(43-39)
10. Charlotte Hornets(41-41)
11. Miami Heat(38-44)
12. Washington Wizards(36-46)
13. Cleveland Cavaliers(34-48)
14. Toronto Raptors(31-51)
15. Milwaukee Bucks(19-63)
Once again, the Nets are the best team in the East, although they got a heck of a challenge from the new "superteam" in the Big Apple. Most of the other qualifiers are the usual suspects, except for the Orlando Magic, who made the playoffs for the first time in years thanks to a breakout campaign from small forward Javier Sanchez(17.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg). Philly were unfortunate to miss out thanks to a tiebreaker on head to head record, even after bringing back Lou Williams(17.8 ppg). Charlotte also missed out despite an excellent year from new star James Harden(24.3 ppg, 8.9 apg), and clearly need a secondary star. Miami still can't get their act together, and Cleveland struggled thanks to the incredibly unwise decision to bench young Kyrie Irving. And poor Milwaukee thought they could contend, and traded away a first round pick for Marion Geiger(14.7 ppg, 10.2 rpg) though at least the pick was top ten protected.
Western Conference
1. Dallas Mavericks(51-31)
2. San Antonio Spurs(48-34)
3. Utah Jazz(47-35)
4. Vancouver Grizzlies(47-35)
5. Portland Trail Blazers(42-40)
6. Golden State Warriors(41-41)
7. Seattle SuperSonics(40-42)
8. Houston Rockets(39-43)
9. New Orleans Pelicans(37-45)
10. Minnesota Timberwolves(37-45)
11. Denver Nuggets(36-46)
12. Phoenix Suns(35-47)
13. Los Angeles Lakers(35-47)
14. Sacramento Kings(32-50)
15. Los Angeles Clippers(26-56)
It was no surprise to see Dallas atop the standings this year, as Stephen Curry(29.4 ppg, 12 apg) had his best season yet en route to a third MVP. More shocking was the meteoric rise of the Spurs, as Kawhi Leonard(23.8 ppg) and Kevin Love(21.7 ppg) formed a devastating one-two punch. Portland could be a title contender this year thanks to new signing John Wall(20.9 ppg, 6.2 apg), while improved defense and better communication got Seattle back on track. Meanwhile, the aging core in New Orleans are clearly on the decline, and Minnesota struggled without Kevin Garnett's interior defense despite a tremendous year from Kevin Durant(30 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 5.2 apg). For the first time in The New Millennium, the Lakers did not make the playoffs, as Kobe Bryant(15.3 ppg) continues to decline. The other LA team certainly did not pick up the slack, as the Clippers finished in dead last and desperately need some sign of hope on the horizon. And up in Sacramento, the Kings were as bad as expected, but did get a very good year from young Julius Randle(14.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg).
Awards
MVP: Stephen Curry, Dallas Mavericks
Rookie of the Year: Julius Randle, Sacramento Kings
Sixth Man: Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers
Defensive Player: Willie Lewis, Boston Celtics
Most Improved: Kevin Love, San Antonio Spurs
Coach of the Year: Lionel Hollins, New Jersey Nets
Join me next time on The New Millennium for the crowning of the 2015 NBA Champions.
Saturday, July 13, 2019
NBA 2k19: The New Millennium(Banana Business)
Stuck on a last place team despite being one of the best stars in the NBA, one superstar hooks up with an old friend to attempt to begin a dynasty. Here are the trades for the 2014-2015 season.
- The New York Knicks trade PG Darren Collison(89 OVR), SG Leo Henderson(85 OVR) and 4 1st round picks to the Sacramento Kings for PG Chris Paul(95 OVR) and SG K.J. McDaniels(71 OVR)-
After 9 years spent in Sacramento, most spent losing, CP3 is off to the bright lights of the Big Apple. In doing so, Paul(still just 29) joins up with Carmelo Anthony, whom he was just pictured with early in the summer as part of the infamous Banana Boat quartet. Sacramento gets some solid pieces in Collison and Henderson, though Henderson is 37 with his contract expiring at the end of the year. The Kings also receive 3 picks(Clippers, Knicks and Timberwolves) for the upcoming draft as an attempt to completely rebuild their team.
- The Sacramento Kings trade C Sherman Conway(90 OVR) to the Philadelphia 76ers for C Dan Buckner(87 OVR), PF Louis Joseph(76 OVR) and 2 1st round picks-
The Kings finish blowing up their team, sending Conway to Philly. In exchange, they take on Buckner and Joseph, both of whom have expiring contracts, as well as picking up picks for this year and next year, both completely unprotected. The 76ers get Conway, who is still signed for 2 years and has remained one of the best centers in the NBA after winning the NBA Finals MVP award for Denver in 2010.
- The Denver Nuggets trade PG Jameer Nelson(84 OVR) and 2015 1st round pick to the Utah Jazz for PG Jason Coles(88 OVR)-
Speaking of the Nuggets, they jettison the aging Nelson, another part of that championship team, alongside a top five protected Spurs pick to acquire Jason Coles. Coles should provide tons of scoring for a team that looks to once again push for the playoffs.
- The Chicago Bulls trade PG Frank Evans III(81 OVR) and 2018 1st round pick to the Detroit Pistons for PG Dennis Schroder(85 OVR)-
With starting point guard Damien Baxter(88 OVR) now 35 years old, the Bulls make a move for Schroder, who is still only 21. In making this move, they give up Evans III, who is mostly just a benchwarmer, alongside an unprotected pick.
- The Los Angeles Clippers trade SG Edwin Russell(88 OVR) to the San Antonio Spurs for SF Toni Petrovic(85 OVR) and 2015 2nd round pick-
With Russell likely to leave in free agency, the Clippers flip him one year after acquiring him in the Dwyane Wade deal. The Spurs offload the 35 year old Petrovic for the 35 year old Russell, who has never been a star, though has scored double digit points for all 10 years of his career.
- The Los Angeles Clippers trade C Marion Geiger(85 OVR) to the Milwaukee Bucks for C Pat Riley(80 OVR) and 2016 1st round pick-
Since losing James Harden in free agency, the Bucks have drafted C.J. McCollum(82 OVR, 87 Potential), Draymond Green(81 OVR, 87 Potential) and Andrew Wiggins(81 OVR, 85 Potential). That makes next year's pick expendable to them, though they did chose top ten protection before sending it to the Clippers. They get back Geiger, who will be their starting center next season.
- The New York Knicks trade PG Darren Collison(89 OVR), SG Leo Henderson(85 OVR) and 4 1st round picks to the Sacramento Kings for PG Chris Paul(95 OVR) and SG K.J. McDaniels(71 OVR)-
After 9 years spent in Sacramento, most spent losing, CP3 is off to the bright lights of the Big Apple. In doing so, Paul(still just 29) joins up with Carmelo Anthony, whom he was just pictured with early in the summer as part of the infamous Banana Boat quartet. Sacramento gets some solid pieces in Collison and Henderson, though Henderson is 37 with his contract expiring at the end of the year. The Kings also receive 3 picks(Clippers, Knicks and Timberwolves) for the upcoming draft as an attempt to completely rebuild their team.
- The Sacramento Kings trade C Sherman Conway(90 OVR) to the Philadelphia 76ers for C Dan Buckner(87 OVR), PF Louis Joseph(76 OVR) and 2 1st round picks-
The Kings finish blowing up their team, sending Conway to Philly. In exchange, they take on Buckner and Joseph, both of whom have expiring contracts, as well as picking up picks for this year and next year, both completely unprotected. The 76ers get Conway, who is still signed for 2 years and has remained one of the best centers in the NBA after winning the NBA Finals MVP award for Denver in 2010.
- The Denver Nuggets trade PG Jameer Nelson(84 OVR) and 2015 1st round pick to the Utah Jazz for PG Jason Coles(88 OVR)-
Speaking of the Nuggets, they jettison the aging Nelson, another part of that championship team, alongside a top five protected Spurs pick to acquire Jason Coles. Coles should provide tons of scoring for a team that looks to once again push for the playoffs.
- The Chicago Bulls trade PG Frank Evans III(81 OVR) and 2018 1st round pick to the Detroit Pistons for PG Dennis Schroder(85 OVR)-
With starting point guard Damien Baxter(88 OVR) now 35 years old, the Bulls make a move for Schroder, who is still only 21. In making this move, they give up Evans III, who is mostly just a benchwarmer, alongside an unprotected pick.
- The Los Angeles Clippers trade SG Edwin Russell(88 OVR) to the San Antonio Spurs for SF Toni Petrovic(85 OVR) and 2015 2nd round pick-
With Russell likely to leave in free agency, the Clippers flip him one year after acquiring him in the Dwyane Wade deal. The Spurs offload the 35 year old Petrovic for the 35 year old Russell, who has never been a star, though has scored double digit points for all 10 years of his career.
- The Los Angeles Clippers trade C Marion Geiger(85 OVR) to the Milwaukee Bucks for C Pat Riley(80 OVR) and 2016 1st round pick-
Since losing James Harden in free agency, the Bucks have drafted C.J. McCollum(82 OVR, 87 Potential), Draymond Green(81 OVR, 87 Potential) and Andrew Wiggins(81 OVR, 85 Potential). That makes next year's pick expendable to them, though they did chose top ten protection before sending it to the Clippers. They get back Geiger, who will be their starting center next season.
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