Utah Jazz Coach Jerry Sloan Resigns

Per various sources and this report by Salt Lake City's Daily News, Utah Jazz head coach Jerry Sloan is set to resign in a press conference later today. This news is indeed shocking as Sloan just signed a one-year extension to coach the Jazz and is the longest tenured head coach in the NBA. The report also says top assistant Phil Johnson will resign as well. Tyon Corbin will coach the team for the remainder of the season. Here's some of the report:

KSL has learned that Utah Jazz coach Jerry Sloan and assistant coach Phil Johnson will resign at a press conference later Thursday.

More details will be posted as they become available.

The news comes after the Jazz lost to Chicago in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, where former Jazz players Kyle Korver and Ronnie Brewer helped the Bulls escape Utah with a 91-86 win.

After the game, Sloan didn't come out of his office for a postgame interview until about a half-hour after his team lost for the 10th time in 14 games.

The Hall of Famer, who usually talks to reporters about 10 minutes after the final buzzer, had been in a discussion with general manager Kevin O'Connor.

The Jazz have not been the same this season after losing Carlos Boozer, Kyle Korver and Ronnie Brewer to the Bulls in the off season. The possibility of a trade could also be in in discussions, but all signs are pointing to Sloan's resignation. I thought the Jazz were overachieving this season but given their history of success there is always a lot of pressure for them to be among the best teams in the Western Conference. It's been clear that star PG Deron Williams has been unhappy and the Jazz need to do something to keep him on board as he will be a free agent in 2012.

According to this report from Yahoo Sports, Sloan and Williams clashed during halftime of Wednesday night's loss to the Bulls:

Sloan’s relationship with Williams had grown progressively worse over the course of the season, league sources said, and the coach had tired of dealing with the team’s best player. The frustration escalated on Wednesday night when Sloan and Williams clashed in the locker room at halftime.

“He decided right there in halftime that he was done,” a league source told Yahoo! Sports. “He felt like ownership was listening more to Williams than they were to him anymore. He was done.”

Jerry Sloan has a career coaching record of 1190–780 going into the 2009-2010 season and has coached the Jazz for 22 straight seasons.
-ALR

NBA Trade Rumors: Warriors Showing Interest in Nene Hilario

Another day, more trade rumors... With the NBA trade deadline about 2 weeks away (Feb. 24th) you can expect to hear a ton of names thrown around in all types of crazy trade rumors, some more valid than others. Today we have an interesting one involving the Golden State Warriors being interested in acquiring Nene from the Nuggets, according to this report from the Mercury News. Here's some info regarding the rumor:

According to multiple sources, the Warriors have inquired about Nene, a 6-foot-11, 250-pound center from Brazil. But the Nuggets would have to agree to trade him, and Nene would have to agree to a contract extension because he is a pending free agent.

"We have to look at what we have," Warriors coach Keith Smart said. "We can't wish and hope for something we don't have."

Nene, who is averaging 15.3 points per game on an NBA-best 64.4 percent shooting, would seem to quench the Warriors' thirst for inside scoring.

There are a few observations I can derive from this trade rumor. 1.) The Nuggets will be involved in more trade scenarios than any team in recent memory. The team is aging and hasn't gotten much better over the years and you have the Carmelo Anthony situation brewing. 2.) With some of their better players approaching free agency the Nuggets need to find out what kind of return they can get for those players instead of running the rick of losing them with nothing to show for it.

This particular trade scenario would definitely benefit the Warriors who could use a reliable scorer who can finish effectively in the paint (evident by his league-leading 64% field goal percentage). Andris Biedrins can't cut it and David Lee is more of a pick & roll/pop type of big forward. The Warrior have some youth in their front court with Ekpe Udoh and Brandan Wright but they need time to develop. So it's a matter of what Golden State would need to give up for Nene, and I don't think he's worth brokering your future for. The Warriors already have a decent young core group on the perimeter with Stephen Curry, Monta Ellis, Dorell Wright and Reggie Williams. I think their biggest area of need is an experienced head coach instead of a trade.

We can go ahead and file this one in the "unlikely rumor" category, along with those crazy Carmelo to the Lakers rumors that set the internet abuzz yesterday.

-ALR

Ron Artest Hopes To Be Traded According To Source

This should come as a shock to no one, considering the recent rumblings that the Los Angeles Lakers would be actively looking to upgrade their roster and small forward is their most glaring need. According to this report by ESPN's Mark Stein, sources are saying that Ron Artest wants out of L.A. Here's some of the scoop from Stein:

The Lakers have been so uncharacteristically public about the potential benefits of an injection of new blood because they know, with a league-high $90.4 million payroll and such limited trade assets, that threatening this locker room with a shakeup move is a far simpler gamble to execute than shaking things up with an actual deal before the Feb. 24 trading deadline.

However ... I'm told that there's at least one prominent Laker who hopes he's the guy who gets shipped out in the next 20-odd days.

One source close to the situation insists that Ron Artest wants out.

Asked to react to that, Artest's agent David Bauman declined comment.

I'd never call myself an expert, but usually when an agent declines a comment in regards to his clients rumored demands something is up. Artest has admittedly been lost at times in the triangle offense and has even disinterested on defense, which is his calling card in the NBA. He's also admitted that he sees a shrink to help him with his psychological issues so this may just be crazy Ron on display. Here's a little more from the report:

I've nonetheless been assured this week that Artest -- though he hasn't outright demanded a trade and is likely to publicly deny it -- is serious about wanting to be dealt somewhere "he can have fun again" less than a year removed from the pivotal role he played in that ring-clinching Game 7 with Boston that the Lakers so nearly squandered.

An NBA player would rather go somewhere where he can "have fun" over playing for a legit title contender? Interesting. Maybe Ron Ron should schedule a few more sessions with that psychiatrist to help get his mind right.

Either way, the Lakers need to do something to shake things up. They have not played up to par against the other top teams in the league and at times they can look quite lethargic. And the Lakers aren't getting any younger with the majority of their core at 30+. Magic Johnson recently chipped in and said that maybe a change is needed to shake things up.

Hopefully something is done in Hollywood to wake this current edition of the Lakers up come playoff time. Every team in the league is gunning for them and it won't be that easy to just flip the switch and turn it on in April.

-ALR

Why Rashard Lewis Is The NBA's Most Overpaid Player

Numbers often don't lie, but if I told you that a player who is averaging a paltry 10.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg and shooting only 38% from the field was making $19,573,711 this season alone would you believe me? What if I told you that same player still has two more seasons and $43.8 mil left on his contract? You would think I was joking, right? Well the player just described is none other than Orlando Magic forward Rashard Lewis, who is in the fourth year of a 6-year, $112.7 mil sign and trade deal that was negotiated back in 2007. Someone give his agent a raise.


If you have seen any Orlando Magic games this season, you'll notice that Lewis has looked every bit of lost out on the court. He has scored less than double digits in 5 out of the Magic's 11 games so far this season. His worst performance might have been when Oct. 29th against the Heat, where Lewis was 0-9 from the field and fouled out in only 25 minutes of play. The Magic lost that game by 26 points. Ask yourself, is that worth $19 mil?

So far this season Rashard Lewis has made Albert Haynesworth look like Charlie Hustle. There has been little effort and also what seems like a lack of focus. Some would argue that decline in play would be because Lewis has played more power forward this season which puts him in tougher match ups, but I don't buy it. Lewis has played a flex forward position since back in his all-star days with the Sonics so that point is moot. Lewis' production has been on the decline every year he has been in Orlando, from averaging 18.2 in 07-08, to 17.7, 14.2, and 10.5 so far this season (respectively). His shooting percentage has also been on the dropping every season which is definitely a cause for concern.

From my perspective, I think Lewis' reduced role has played the biggest factor in his decline in play and effort. Lewis is part of a deep forward rotation that includes Quentin Richardson, Mickael Pietrus, Brandon Bass, Ryan Anderson and sometimes Vince Carter when the Magic go to a smaller lineup. Lewis is the type of wing player who needs touches to be successful and in the current Magic system he is expected to be more of a spot up shooter, which doesn't really utilize his full potential.

So how do the Magic fix this issue? Trading Lewis is pretty much impossible with that much money and years left on his deal, unless they find a taker in a team who needs a scoring swingman and would be willing to trade large deals. A team that would fit this description: the Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers could trade Baron Davis and a throw-in like Rasual Butler (who's contract is up after this season) and they also have the cap space to afford Lewis' contract. Lewis is only 31 (same age as Baron) and the swap would fill needs for both Orlando and Los Angeles as the Magic need point guard depth and the Clippers need a 3. A change of scenery might be just what both players need to jump start their careers. Tell me that doesn't work... I thought so.


Maybe I should get Orlando GM Otis Smith and Clippers GM Neil Olshey on the horn and make this happen. Fans of both teams can thank me later (no Drake).


Just a thought.
-ALR (follow me on twitter @a_ramseyLTSB)

Spurs Guard Tony Parker Getting Divorced Over... Erin Barry?

Rumors of the pending divorce between San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker and actress wife Eva Longoria have been swirling around the last couple of days; now this recent foxsports.com report is saying the divorce is over former Spurs teammate Brent Barry's wife Erin Barry. Here's a pic of Mrs. Barry:

 Say it ain't so TP. Say it ain't so... This is a script right out of a lifetime movie. At least Parker recently signed an extension with the Spurs so he doesn't have to worry about job security. But damn, son. Say it ain't so...

-ALR

More Publicity, More Problems for Cameron Newton

Auburn University's Heisman candidate quarterback Cameron Newton is back in the news again for the wrong reasons, this time for allegedly cheating academically while back at Florida (see here for the report). Apparently Newton handed in a paper that was written by another student. After asked to resubmit the paper Newton turned in a paper that was purchased off the net. Cam apparently is better at ripping apart defenses than pulling a fast one on NCAA instructors.

Newton has already been in the news recently for reports surrounding his recruitment prior to attending Auburn, where it is rumored that his services were being offered for cash. These reports were preceded by a 2008 arrest for stealing a laptop while Newton was at Florida. Newton transferred to Binn College in TX before helping Auburn to a No. 2 ranking in the current BCS standings.

It seems as if the kid cannot stay out of trouble, which will not bode well or Newton's draft status should he consider to skip his senior season(which may be the best option for the 6'6 athlete). Whether or not these reports will hurt Newton's Heisman chances are unknown but they definitely won't help.

Make the jump for the money after the season Cam; then you can get paid for while doing whatever you want. Just try not to get caught.

-ALR

BREAKING NEWS: Wade Phillips IS Done in Dallas; Garrett Interim Head Coach

UPDATE- Sources are saying wade Phillips is no longer head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. This report over at nbcspots confirmed the move. Offensive Coordinator Jason Garrett is expected to be named interim head coach later today.

Per this report seen over at ESPN, Wade Phillips is not at the Dallas Cowboys facility. Phillips has been on the hot seat all season and after yesterday's 45-7 loss to the Green Bay Packers this may be the end of Phillips' tenure as the Cowboys head coach.

From watching the games it appears as though the Cowboys have lost focus and motivation. You can name a number of things that have gone wrong with Dallas' season so far and Phillips may not be the only problem, but someone has to take the fall and it more often than not is the head coach. The Cowboys have also gone from having one of the best defenses last season to one of the worst this year (Phillips makes all the defensive calls).

Phillips has been at the helm for the Cowboys since the 2007 season and has a record of 34-20 with the team, although Dallas only has a 1-3 playoff record with Phillips as the head coach. The team was expected to contend for a Super Bowl berth this season as the big game will be held at majestic Dallas Stadium.

If this is indeed the end for Phillips, best of luck to him and whoever ends up as the coach of this team in the future as their is always immense pressure leading such a high profile unit.

-ALR

Braylon Edwards Claims Comments "Taken Out Of Context"

Yesterday, it was reported that New York Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards said that quarterback Mark Sanchez hasn't earned the right to criticize yet (see here for the story).

Well today, per this report over at nj.com Edwards and a Jets spokesman say that his comments were taken out of context. Here are the comments:

"The quote was taken out of context, I just spoke to the (spokesperson) about it" Edwards said.


"He was referring to quarterbacks in general, not to Mark Sanchez," the spokesperson said. "Those comments were not made specifically toward Mark they were made toward just playing the quarterback position."

Hey Braylon; "We Don't Believe You." Funny that once some of these off the wall comments players make go public how quickly they try to clean them up.

Just another example of wide receivers being divas. Despite his lofty draft status (he went 3rd overall back in 2005) Edwards has only had one good season and has been surrounded by off the field controversy. Criticizing your young QB when you are barely a top 30 receiver might not have been the best idea. Why not try thinking before you speak? Got thing the Jets have good PR.

Braylon Edwards please do better.

-ALR (@a_ramsey on twitter)

Mickael Pietrus Argues Over Playing Time

Just saw this via @probasketballtalk... Orlando Magic G/F Mickael Pietrus was unhappy with head coach Stan Van Gundy regarding playing time and let the coach know about it.

Here are Van Gundy's comments on the incident, "“MP was unhappy about when he went into the game and he was unhappy about me telling him to play defense,” (Magic coach Stan) Van Gundy said. “He didn’t like what I was saying and I didn’t like his response, so I took him out of the game…”

Pietrus responded with this, "“I’m a very competitive guy. What I miss the most is being out there,” Pietrus said. “It’s not playing time; it’s getting back that adrenalin that I need. It’s hard for me not to have that.

”It’s why I’m so frustrated. … I respect Stan. Of course. He’s like part of my family.”


At least Pietrus took the politically correct high road with his response. If you recall, Magic guard J.J. Redick once had an issue with Van Gundy's rotation pattern and even requested to be traded, which the Magic declined to do. If this incident will be a big issue going forward is interesting as Pietrus' defense and outside shooting are vital to the team's success.

It should be noted that whatever method is behind Van Gundy's antics seems to work as the Magic have gone deep in the playoffs each of the last few seasons. Maybe his motivation tactics will play out in the Magic's favor again this season. Maybe not. We'll see...

-ALR (@a_ramsey on twitter)

"They Should Have Never Gave LeBron James Twitter!"

LeBron James just can't seem to catch a break. First, the media ripped him apart for "The Decision" and the way it was handled. Not too long after, #6 took to his newly opened twitter page proclaiming that he's taking notes on everyone taking "shots" at him (no Gilbert Arenas). Then James retweeted some racist rants directed towards him to let it be known to the public the type of hate he has to endure (which is really sad of society, but this is about race).

Then over the weekend, James lashed out via his twitter feed at urban gossip website media takeout for rumors of him and Kim Kardashian being somehow linked romantically (see here at blacksportsonline.com for more on that).

Something I think James needs to realize is that websites like MTO feed off of drama and the fact that society lavishes in it. By him blasting them via his twitter account, he pretty much sent a very portion of his 975,000+ followers to their website and making MTO a ton on money. Which is exactly what they wanted. It's tough to say he should have consulted with his PR people before lashing out as people make rash decisions when emotionally charged but James has to be a little wiser than that.

Here at LTSB we may be critical of #6, but mainly for his performance on the court. I really hope as James continues to mature as a basketball player (which he has shown signs of this season) he will also continue to grow as an adult and learn to make better "decisions". Now stop jacking up so many 3's and get to the rack like a 6'8, 250 monster is supposed to!

-ALR

Randy Moss Waived By Vikings? (Updated)

This rumor has been all over the web, and NFL Network has confirmed that Randy Moss has been placed on waivers by the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings traded a 3rd round rick to New England just under a couple months ago for the wide receiver but you could tell in his body language and talk that he was not down with losing in Minnesota.

ed. - Apparently, head coach Brad Childress made the decision to release Moss without everyone in the organization on board. Moss doesn't officially hit waivers until tomorrow so this can develop in a number of ways. Once Waived, Moss could be claimed by any team, with waiver claims in priority of worst team to best (meaning New England stands the least likely chance of reaquiring the receiver).

When I head of this the first thing I could think of was a return to New England. But where will Moss really end up is anyone's guess.

One thing is for sure; Randy Moss press conferences > T.O. press conferences. Yesterday he sounded like he really missed playing for the Pats (who also own the league's best record). This season has been a circus so far. Just another week in the World's Greatest Reality TV Show, aka the National Football League.

-ALR

Addition By Contraction... Wait, What?

Say it ain't so Stern!

Saw this story over at espn.com. Apparently NBA Commissioner David Stern thinks the league may need to drop a couple teams in markets to get player costs down, which could spell trouble for cities with the lowest NBA attendance (yes, you Minnesota & Charlotte).

Despite the financial woes the NBA seems to be facing, David Stern has done a decent job with the league since becoming commissioner back in 1984 (except for "rumor" of the fixed 1985 draft that landed Stern's hometown Knicks Patrick Ewing). He does have a few "fails" on his resume, such as the lame hand checking rules, allowed zone defense and of course the NBA dress code.

Under Stern, the NBA has added 7 teams, expanded it's global influence and the league's media presence has grown tremendously. While fewer teams may bring costs down and ultimately raise competition levels, the fan in me hopes this does not come to pass. I like to enjoy as many games and highlights as possible (not to mention all the dreams and jobs that would be sacrificed). I doubt this change would really go down, and let's all hope I'm right. Which reminds me, I need to get my NBA League Pass game up...

-ALR

Tradewinds: Carmelo Anthony Update

Just saw this on espn.com... Report says there is a possible four team trade being discussed between Denver, Charlotte, Utah & New Jersey involving a number of players including Anthony, #3 overall pick Derrick Favors, PG Devin Harris and some future first round picks. Click here for the details.

Will this trade make the Nets an immediate contender in the Eastern Conference? Tough to say, especially if they part with Harris and turn the starting point job duties over to Jordan Farmar (trouble...) but it definitely would guarantee they would win more than a measly twelve games.

We'll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

-ALR

Iverson Considering Playing Overseas

Saw this over at espn.com. Since Allen Iverson's best playing days in the NBA seem to be behind him, it looks like he may have to take his talents to China. Rumor has it that he has had talks with a team about a possible deal to play overseas.

Regardless of his last couple of seasons, AI is still one of the greatest scoring point guards in NBA history. Wherever the road takes him, I wish him the best of luck. And I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if he went over there and put up MVP numbers. Would you?

-ALR

Ricky Hatton - Champ Turned Cokehead??

Just saw this story over on bossip.com. Looks like former boxing champ Ricky Hatton is doing his best Vincent Chase impression and went on a crazy coke binge. I guess the hangover from Floyd Mayweather Jr. knocking him out wasn't enough. It's also rumored that his license as a boxing promoter may be in jeopardy.

All jokes aside, I hope Hatton pulls it together. I'm sure all of England is pulling for their one-time favorite boxing golden boy.

-ALR

No More Melo?

According to this ESPN report, Carmelo Anthony's days as the face of the Denver Nuggets are nearing an end. There has been speculation of the seperation since Anthony has yet to sign a 3-year, $65 mil extension offered by the team earlier this summer. Now it remains to be seen if the Nuggets will deal Carmelo before the season starts or if they will hold on until the trade deadline and see if he changes his mind. This has definitely been quite the summer in the NBA. Stay tuned...

-ALR