Breaking Down the NFC East

1. Cowboys - yea they are the favorite in this division and have a tremendous offense but lets not jump the gun. Who knows if Miles Austin can put together a season like he did last, most of his production was from those 200 yard performances in 2 games I believe. Roy Williams sucks and everyone knows it, Dez Bryant is a guy a lot of people are saying is the real deal and expect him to be the #2 WR. That's a lot of pressure for a young kid, and Jason Witten is a beast. The running game needs to stay healthy and after last year Marion Barber III needs to prove he can bounce back from the injury. And if we know anything it's that the NFC East battle each other and you will lose a couple games in the division alone. Lets look at the Cowboys tough games that will be hard to win or WILL lose. Week 6 @Minnesota is a loss, Week 9 @Green Bay is a loss and Week 10 @ the Giants is a loss. That's 3 losses already, they play New Orleans on Thanksgiving and Indy THE WEEK AFTER!!! That's a ridiculous schedule, even if they beat the Giants twice this year with the games listed they lose 4 games. Then you know what happens, crazy plays and somehow they lose to the Skins one game and the Eagles can take them down in their house because of the nature of the game. People are verrrrrrry high on the Cowboys without being realistic, the schedule in front of them is very tough. I'd say at best 12-4, probably 11-5.

2. Giants - The mantra of Eli Manning is over rated of he stinks has become some sort of fad amongst NFL fans. I've even heard people say Eli was awful last year after posting his best statistical season of his career. Eli threw for 4,000 yards last year with a bunch of young kids and no "clear cut #1" with Plax gone. The running game for the Giants last year was beyond terrible and the amount of injuries they had on defense it was surprising they didn't lose more games. With Kenny Phillips, Aaron Ross healthy the defense will be improved. Osi and Tuck healthy + a new D coordinator in Perry Fuel the Giants are predicated on their health. Lets not forget they added Antrel Rolle and if Keith Bulluck can stay healthy he could be a good replacement for Pierce. This year the Giants have alot to prove and they have a bunch of ? but Eli is the real deal and people need to stop discrediting him. I got the Giants at 10-6 this year factoring in 2 losses to the Cowboys, 1 to Philly, and 3 to Green Bay, Indy, Minnesota.

3. Redskins - Many are saying this team will be awful and that even #5 will not change things. McNabb is a huge snag for the Skins but they are still lacking many pieces. Eagles fans have been calling Donovan a bum for years and are rejoicing that he is gone and that the Kevin Kolb Era has begun. Calling Donovan a bum is just stupid, the guy has a hell of an arm and took the Eagles to the Super Bowl and NFC Championships...yes he didn't win but he isn't a bad QB. Philly fans hate him for dumb reasons but he doesn't suck. The Redskins on the other hand are weird, new coach, new QB and A TON OF OLD +$+ RUNNING BACKS. Their defense should be ok but they have no WR threats and I don't see much success for them. 7-9 at best.

4. Eagles - I'm not buying the Eagles with Kolb, I think the one that will hate this move and suffer from it the most is Desean Jackson. The eagles are old on defense and just don't scare anyone anymore. I think they are slowly entering a rebuilding mode as the Redskins should be instead of loading the team with washed up players. Eagles will go 8-8 and everyone will call for Andy Reid to be fired.

Should be a interesting fight in the division as always, football is right around the corner.

Brewers Looking to Move A Prince?

The Milwaukee Brewers are fielding offers for star first baseman, Prince Fielder.

Fielder is having a rough 1st half of the season, although the power is still there with 19 homeruns, a low RBI total, 38 and a .266 batting average has sprung up trade talks. More of a factor is the price tag Fielder would command in the offseason when he becomes a free agent. Many believe Milwaukee will not be able to sign him back and are looking to get something for him now.

But where can he go? What would be the best fit for Prince Fielder?

Prince is not a terrible first baseman but maybe a DH spot in the AL would be more fitting. So lets take a look at teams that could use a power bat to put them over the top in the 2nd half of the MLB season.

1. Tampa Bay Rays - The Rays are dangerous right now and will be fighting the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox for the AL East crown all year. Adding Prince to a line up with Crawford, Zobrist, Longoria, Upton, Pena would be an amazing fit. He could spell Pena at first, and hit homers all the time in the dome. Yes he more than likely would be a rental player for them but it would give them a great shot to win the AL East.

2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - The loss of Kendry Morales was a tough one to swallow and he may not be back all year. The Angels are in a world of hurt at the 1B position and could use a power bat to supplement the loss of Morales. Along with Hunter, Abreu, Matsui, Fielder would help them beat the Rangers in the AL West.

3. Chicago White Sox - A team in the thick of things in the AL Central they could use a bat to ward off the Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins. Fielder could provide excellent protection around Paul Konerko who is having a great year, Carlos Quentin and Alex Rios.

Prince Fielder would be a great asset for any team, and could put them in prime contention to win a ring this year. Fielder will certainly look to have a better 2nd half, but I have a feeling if he continues to crush baseballs, teams, especially in the AL will take the sacrifice.

Decision Made, LeBron to Miami.

"The Decision" has been made, Miami wins. It looks like they will be winning for a very long time. LeBron James yesterday announced on national television that he was leaving Cleveland to go play with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh is South Beach.

While fans in Cleveland cried and burned his jersey, fans in Miami went crazy and rushed to buy season tickets. Fans in New York were upset as well, (I was in NYC last night after the decision and everywhere you looked someone was saying 'F*** LeBron') those in New Jersey and Chicago knew they had no chance.

On to the analysis. LeBron made this decision in order to win. I thought the best place for his to go would have been New York. It would have revitalized the NBA in a completely new way. Not only would there be dozens upon dozens of story lines heading into the season but rivalries galore. If LeBron went to New York imagine opening night of New York vs Miami, Bosh and Wade vs Amar'e and LeBron. Christmas; Kobe and Gasol vs Rose and Boozer. The big three in Boston vs Dwight Howard and the Magic, tons of possibilities.

Instead LeBron chose the championships and the best CURRENT opportunity to win not just one ring, but multiple rings. Tons of bitter Cleveland and New York fans are saying that LeBron took the "coward" way out and that he owed it to the city of Cleveland or he strung along New York, which is a load of crap. LeBron owes the city of Cleveland nothing, and I mean it, not one damn thing.

LeBron James single-handedly revitalized the city of Cleveland by restoring the basketball program, boosting the economy and putting basketball back on the map in that state. Before LeBron strolled along the only thing Cleveland basketball was known for was Michael Jordan draining a jumper and Craig Ehlo dropping to the court like a sack of potatoes. He played seven years in Cleveland took them to the playoffs and a NBA Finals, won multiple MVPs, all-star game appearances and many more accolades. He did not win a ring, but that isn't completely his fault. The organization never gave him the proper "Robin," an old Shaq doesn't count, Antwan Jamison is awful and Mo Williams doesn't even deserve to be called "Cat Woman." He did all that he could for that franchise and it was time to move on.

The worst part about this entire situation was the way it was handled and LeBron is receiving a lot of grief about it from fans and sports talk shows everywhere. This whole "The Decision" on ESPN was completely unnecessary for him to announce that he was going to Miami. The day before that, at 12:30pm on SportsCenter Bosh and Wade made their decision. If LeBron knew he was choosing Miami why not save face and just hop on SC with them and do the announcement like that. It would have saved him so much aggravation if it was handled in a more mild-manner sort of a way. Aside from that, the decision itself is not one people should be angry at. It was a decision to go and win, it was not about the money or the fame, it was simply about the rings.

Following LeBron's decision Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert made a fool of himself and put himself into a hole he wont be able to get out of in the near future. Gilbert issued and statement ripping apart James that made him look like a sore loser and cry baby. Gilbert called LeBron "a former hero" "narcissistic" and "disloyal." Also saying this bold statement:

In the meantime, I want to make one statement to you tonight:

"I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE"

You can take it to the bank.

YEA RIGHT DAN.


Today Miami introduced Wade, James and Bosh to the Heat fans where there was a "party" followed by a press conference. The press conference is what struck a chord with me the most. LeBron answered questions to which he forcefully stated that his decision was about the W column and getting championships. It was a prime opportunity for them to play together like they did in 2008 for the USA Olympic team where they won the gold medal. All three of them seemed to be on the same page mentally and really knew what they were getting themselves into. If this goes how it seems on the surface the NBA should be very, very scared. Yes the Los Angeles Lakers are the 2-time defending champions right now and they are the favorite for next year right now because we do not know who will fill out this Heat roster, but the Heat will be dangerous in 2010-2011.

The figures for the contracts came down of all three, LeBron James and Chris Bosh both agreed to six-year $110 million dollar deals. Dwyane Wade signed off on a slightly smaller deal of six-years $107 million dollars. Each took 15 million dollars less than they could have with other teams in order to play together and win. They left that money on the table so that a team could be built around them. In this case no one lied, it is about winning, it is not about the money, it is simply about the hardware.

Now that it is over, moves can be made and we can get on with out lives. NBA teams will focus on getting better, adding players to their rosters, the summer league and then the season will begin. LeBron's decision is one he will have to live with, and for his sake I hope he win 10 championships with the Heat. He has to or else he will be vilified for the end of time.

The great ones always want the ball in their hands at the end of the game, when the pressure is on. Well LeBron congratulations the weight of the world is on your shoulders with this decision, your move.

Kevin Durant Re-Ups with the Thunder

Shortly after Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh announced their decision to play for Miami, Kevin Durant dished some news of his own that went under the radar.

Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder agreed on a 5-year $86 Million extension. Last year Durant became the youngest scoring champion in NBA history.

Last year the Thunder shocked many as they went into the playoffs with such a young team, and gave the Lakers a fight. The Thunder have a core nucleus of Durant, Jeff Green and Russell Westbrook that seems to be ready to cause problems in the West for a long while.

Boozer Bulldozes his way Back to the East

Carlos Boozer has agreed to a 5 year $80 million deal with the Chicago Bulls.

A huge move for Chicago that solidifies their front court with a combo of Joakim Noah and now Carlos Boozer. Along with Derrick Rose this makes Chicago a great contender. It seems the one thing missing from this Bulls team is a solid shooting guard.

A key here is that the Bulls even with the signing of Boozer still have enough cap space to sign LeBron James.

I believe he will not sign with Chicago, regardless of that face, Boozer to Chicago is a great move.

Wade and Bosh Team Up In Miami

Well it wasn't a hour long special but Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh sat down and spoke with ESPN's Michael Wilbon to announce their destination.

Both will be playing together for the Miami Heat.

The big question now is will LeBron comes with them. Financially it will leave the Heat crippled but it could be the start of a dynasty.

Miami has limited financial wiggle room even without signing LeBron, but that does not matter at this very second. It is all about the foundation of Wade and Bosh. A dynamic duo that will be a force to be reckoned with.

Miami now has 4 players on their roster along with the two that signed today are also Michael Beasley and Mario Chalmers. The Heat might want to get some more if they want to contend this year.

2 major dominoes have fallen, the biggest one of them all falls tomorrow at 9pm.

LeBron to Make Decision Thursday on ESPN

That's right folks, the moment you all have been waiting for will finally arrive Thursday on ESPN at 9pm.

LeBron James, the most prized free agent in the 2010 class will decide his suitor on live television, something we haven't seen before. It's almost like a college basketball player declaring his school by being in his high school gym and putting on a hat.

This will be the 2nd biggest television event this year, behind the series finale of LOST.

Free Agency Day 6 News

- The big news of the day was the Knicks landing Amar'e Stoudemire with a 5 year 100 million dollar deal.

- Dwyane Wade spoke with Heat owner Micky Arison on Monday, but it wasn't a formal meeting and doesn't change Miami's standing offer of six years and $125 million.

- Free agent PG Raymond Felton is expected to meet with the Knicks and Heat this week.

- Allen Iverson still hopes to play in the NBA next season, "[to] help any team that wants me, in any capacity that they feel that I can help."

- Jazz VP of player personnel, Walt Perrin, says the team wants to re-sign Carlos Boozer and is trying actively to work with the All-Star power forward.

- The Hawks have been exploring the possibility of trading Josh Smith as part of their summertime makeover, according to sources around the league.

- Shaquille O'Neal is seriously considering a two-year deal with the Hawks. The deal would start at the mid-level exception of $5.8 million, and would fulfill Shaq's desire to play two more years on a championship contender.

- Carmelo Anthony will not be traded next season regardless of whether he accepts Denver's contract extension, according to a "high-ranking Nuggets official."

- The Celtics are reportedly "optimistic" that they will be able to re-sign veteran SG Ray Allen.

Amar'e Stoudemire Agrees to Join Knicks

It's official, the first major piece to the puzzle has been put in place, and his name is Amar'e Stoudemire.

Stoudemire's agent Happy Walters has confirmed the reports and said that the deal is "all done."

The deal is for 5 years and will pay the 27 year-old $100 Million.

Amar'e joins a franchise in much need of a face lift and automatically becomes their best player. He is a player they can build around and hope that this is what it takes to land the biggest fish in the 2010 NBA Free Agency pond, LeBron James.

It's been widely speculated that James preferred Chris Bosh as a running mate but if you look back to the trade deadline of this past NBA season, LeBron wanted the Cavs to go after Amar'e instead of Antwan Jamison.

The idea of Amar'e to New York was reported a couple days ago and has now come to fruition.

As the deal broke through the wire, talk radio flooded with callers saying that this wasn't that big of a deal and that getting Amar'e means nothing if the Knicks do not land LeBron to go with him.

TO WHICH I SAY IS BOLOGNA!

Amar'e is an enormous upgrade over David Lee, another free agent this year. Amar'e is a young power forward and he is better than Chris Bosh. Another plus is his familiarity of Mike D'Antoni and the system he runs. Even if LeBron does not come over the fact that the Knicks did not get "cut out" of the free agency frenzy is a win. They come out as a winner for the simple fact that they scored big with a new face for the franchise.

Welcome to New York Amar'e and I think I can speak for all New York Knicks fans when I say, help them land LeBron and make New York an amazing place for basketball again.

Joe Johnson Resigns with Atlanta

The Hawks and Joe Johnson have finalized a six-year contract worth around $120 million, according to beat writer Sekou Smith.

Johnson is the second major name off the board as far as big-name free agents go in the 2010 period.

It was widely speculated that Johnson would find a new home until word came out of Atlanta the price tag they were willing to pay. $120 million was far more than any other team would give Johnson, and there was no way he would leave over $25 million on the table.

What is more unfortunate is that many feel that Johnson has now thrown his chances to win a ring in the garbage. He would have been a great piece on a contender as a dynamic shooting wing, instead he will be "the man" in Atlanta.

Dirk Back In Dallas

Marc Stein of ESPN has just reported that Dirk Nowitzki and owner Mark Cuban have agreed upon a 4 year deal that allows Dirk to continue his career in Dallas.

Sources say Dirk to get a guaranteed $80 million over next four seasons. He took less than max to give the Mavs financial cushion for more moves.

Certainly a great gesture on his part as he hopes the Mavs can add more pieces to the team and get the ring that was taken away from him in 2006.

Stupid Move Chicago.

As the Free Agency period started LeBron got a package. Inside was a pair of Jordan sneakers with a very bold message. The city of Chicago and the Bulls are daring LeBron to take on the challenge of Jordan. Dumb if you ask me.

Inside the box a message read - "You're A King, but can you live up to a legend? Can you take on the greatest challenge in sports; look history in the eyes every night, And refuse to blink. The fans of Chicago have a question for you. Do you dare fill these shoes?"

As it turns out, the package James received was the final piece in a week long marketing initiative by the Chicago-based Leo Burnett Worldwide ad agency. From the Chicago Tribune's Steve Johnson:

"LeBron, the fans of Chicago have a question for you," reads the two-page ad that ran in Thursday's Akron Beacon Journal, James' hometown paper. "Can you cast a shadow this big?"

So Monday, they sent to his house the classic red, white and black Air Jordans and asked if he could fill those shoes. Tuesday it was a case featuring seven empty ring boxes, representing one more championship than Jordan won here, and the question, "Can you fill these boxes?"

Wednesday was a mock-up of a Chicago Tribune 10 years hence - still going strong, by the way - and the headline "Sweet Throne, Chicago: With Title No. 7, It's Officially King James' Court."

Was the pitch cute and clever sure, but I think it does more harm then good.

Knicks OUT of the LeBron Sweepstakes?

The Knicks have been virtually eliminated from contention for LeBron James, according to a report from Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski.

James' camp categorized New York's presentation as 'lacking preparedness and organization.'

Aspects of the Nets' presentation earlier on Thursday were similar in nature to New York's and were 'sharper' and 'edgier'.

James has reservations about the possibility of his earning potential being greater in New York than in Cleveland to make up a $30M difference in salary.

Day 2 - New Pt. 3

- Dwyane Wade is leaning toward committing to the Chicago Bulls, a source close to the situation told ESPN.com's Chad Ford on Friday.

Wade requested a second meeting with the Bulls on Friday, according to the source.

Wade needed to clarify issues around possibly joining the Bulls, according to the source.

The Bulls would need to clear additional cap space to sign two players to max contracts.

- Alan Hahn of Newsday reports "I've been told by several sources that Amar'e is ready to choose the Knicks max offer. Market for him was surprisingly light."

- Pat Riley on Wade about to have second meeting with Bulls: "We feel very strongly about our commitment to Dwyane and our fans."

- Steve Blake has signed a 4 year $16 million with the Lakers.

Chris Bosh Leaves Meeting With Knicks Excited

Chris Bosh met with the New York Knicks for almost 3 hours today. Initial reports were stunning because it was first said that the Knicks packed up their things and left after just over 1 hour.

We later found out that Donnie Walsh stayed behind and spoke with Bosh for almost another 2 hours.

Bosh was asked if he's excited:

"Man you should have seen me in there. I'm more excited than I was yesterday."

Must be great news for the Knicks.

Day 2 - New Pt. 2

- Amar'e Stoudemire declined a 5-year $96 million offer from the Suns because it had a minutes played stipulation.

- The Suns have agreed to terms with Hakeem Warrick, 4 years $18 million. Looks like the Amar'e era is over.

- Dwyane Wade came to his meeting in a van, following him was a camera crew, sources say they are filming a documentary around the Free Agency process.

- Chris Bosh and David Lee will meet with the Bulls today.

Day 2 - News

- Now that Doc Rivers is back in the saddle with the Celtics, reports are Paul Pierce has agreed on a 4-year deal to be in green as well, shocker.

- The Miami Heat have just arrived to their meeting in Cleveland with LeBron James.

- The New York Knicks have confirmed that they will be meeting with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh today.

- To end day 1, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade had dinner. Bosh took a picture with Wade and left and empty chair between them saying, "I think someone is missing." Gee I wonder who that might be?

New York Knicks Land Amar'e?

Tommy Dee who covers the Knicks for SNY said today via his twitter...

"Trying to confirm but source says Amar'e to NY is done and they are "working out numbers"...half of the pick and roll set?"

If true the Knicks do not leave this frenzy empty handed, but they certainly want more.

Day 1 - News pt.6

- Chris Bosh had an 'impressive and productive' meeting with the Heat on Thursday. Miami offered a contract proposal to Bosh, but they were unable to secure an early commitment.

- Source close to the situation tells FanHouse that Boston has begun negotiations with Ray Allen, with Miami and New York other possibilities. (you would think with Doc Rivers back now, Allen and Pierce should be back as well.)

- The Orlando Magic will likely try to acquire Carlos Boozer through sign-and-trade. Boozer is very high on Dwight Howard

- Minnesota, Denver, Knicks and Nets showing interest in Charlotte RFA Tyrus Thomas, sources say.

- Channing Frye has agreed to a five year, $30 million contract to stay with the Suns, a league source tells Y! Sports.

- The Hawks are shopping forward Marvin Williams, according to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Golden State has contacted Atlanta about Williams and the Warriors could call the Rockets if Trevor Ariza and Shane Battier hit the trading block.

- The Los Angeles Lakers have offered Mike Miller a 5 year, $30 million contract.

Chris Paul almost traded to Portland

The Trail Blazers were close to acquiring point guard Chris Paul from the Hornets last week, a source told ESPN.com's Chad Ford.

The proposed deal had Portland sending Andre Miller, Joel Przybilla, Nicolas Batum, Jerryd Bayless and the 22nd pick to New Orleans for Paul and Emeka Okafor.

Hornets general manager Jeff Bower pulled the plug on the deal claiming that his owner wasn't ready to deal Paul.

New Orleans made a trade with Oklahoma City last week that got them under the luxury tax threshold, so they no longer have the financial pressure of dealing Paul.

My Argument for LeBron to New York or New Jersey

To me LeBron has to see it like this. Right now his best option to go play is either with the Knicks or the Nets because of the pieces already in place. All these other teams have nothing to help LeBron even if they sign a Bosh to go with him.

The Knicks already have Gallinari, Chandler, Rautins, Douglas, but you need to see how this really helps LeBron. Gallinari and Rautins are great shooters and Chandler plays the wing well...that's huge. Add a LeBron and Bosh and you have a hell of a team.

The Nets have Harris, Lopez, Favors, and once you add LeBron, and whoever + Jay-Z and the mad Russian it really makes a lot of sense. I think people are really over blowing this whole "play in Newark for 2 years thing." In 2 years he will be in Brooklyn and run the entire tri state.

Miami has 2 players under contract, Beasley and Chalmers...how the hell will that work with Wade and others...it doesn't make sense financially even if you get 3 big players and fill in the rest of the team with Vets taking the min.

Chicago will have to dump Deng or Noah and then all you have is scrubs and Rose who needs the ball to make things happen. It doesn't make sense once again.

Day 1 - News pt.5

- Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle plans to meet with free agent center Brendan Haywood on Thursday in Charlotte, N.C. Nelson called Haywood’s agent Andy Miller once the free agency period began, but has yet to extend an offer.

Haywood also received calls from Miami, Cleveland, Toronto, New York and Detroit. The Heat and Cavs are expected to meet with Haywood on Thursday.

“We are starting the process to re-signing Haywood,” Nelson said.

- Charlotte Bobcats free-agent point guard Raymond Felton received calls from New York, Miami, Indiana, New Jersey, Dallas and Memphis at the beginning of free agency.

- Bulls free-agent center Brad Miller(notes) is expected to meet with Boston, Houston, Cleveland and Chicago over the next couple of days, a league source said.

Dallas Getting Ready To Sign Dirk

Dallas Mavericks president Donnie Nelson will offer Dirk Nowitzki a new contract on Thursday during a meeting at Nowitzki’s home in Dallas.

“I’m going to show up on his doorstep, get on one knee and hope he says, ‘I do,’ “ Nelson said. “We’re hopeful and optimistic he will re-sign.”

The Mavericks expect to re-sign Nowitzki, who opted out of his contract this week.

“They’re going through all the hoops, but I’d be shocked if he went anywhere else,” a source close to the situation said. “He’s going to get [a new contract] done before they change the rules and structure of the collective bargaining agreement.

“I’d say the chances of him leaving are slim to none. Dirk is a loyal guy. He and Mark Cuban are as close as they come. It would be shocking if he talked to other teams.”

Day 1 - News pt.4

- Richard Jefferson doesn’t have a deal with the San Antonio Spurs and would prefer to return to the New York area to play for the Knicks or Nets, according to sources.

- Golden State Warriors restricted free agent Anthony Morrow has attracted a slew of interest in the first hours of free agency, including from the Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Clippers.

- New York Knicks free agent point guard Chris Duhon has drawn some interest from the Chicago Bulls, his former team. The Atlanta Hawks and Oklahoma City Thunder have also made preliminary inquiries into Duhon.

- New York Knicks free agent forward David Lee is scheduled to meet with the Bulls, Heat and Timberwolves over the next three days, a league source said.

Phil Jackson Will Return to Coach Lakers

The Lakers just made the announcement that 11 time NBA Champion as a head coach, Phil Jackson will come back and coach the Lakers next year.

"It will be the last stand for me, and I hope a grand one." said Jackson in a statement.

Should they win another title, they will 3-peat much like the Lakers did when Jackson first came aboard.

I'm sure the Western Conference was thrilled with this announcement. (sarcasm)

Rudy Gay Agrees to a Deal with Memphis

Rudy Gay has agreed to a five-year, $81.6 million deal with Memphis, including a player option on fifth.

Gay was a 2nd option for many teams...time to go to plan B.

Day 1 - News pt.3

- Dwyane Wade has left the United Center after meeting with Bulls officials. Meeting lasted just short of 2 hours.

- A New York Knicks official sent a text message to JA Adande saying "The meeting we've been waiting for for 2 yrs is in less than an hour."

- Dirk Nowitzki is in New York today having dinner with Jason Kidd. The Dallas Mavericks say they are not worried.

- The Oklahoma City Thunder are aggressively working on an extension with Kevin Durant

- The Milwaukee Bucks are close to re signing John Salmons, 5 years $39 Million

- Channing Frye considering Suns 5-year, $25 million offer

Day 1 - News pt.2

- Chris Bosh had this to say following some meetings last night - "It's been an exciting first couple of hrs. Got some interesting visits and presentations from Houston, Toronto, Chicago and Miami. We'll see who else will come out tomorrow."

- The T-Wolves will be meeting with Rudy Gay and David Lee in the next couple days.

- The Pacers are also going after Dwight Lowry

- John Hollinger of ESPN called the max offer from the Hawks to Joe Johnson of $119 Million a "panic contract reminiscent of what the Bucks did with Michael Redd a few years ago."

- Sources report that Carlos Boozer may be involved in a Sign and Trade to the Orlando Magic. A great compliment to Dwight Howard, and gives Boozer a great chance and a ring.

Free Agency Day 1

Well now that everyone has gotten some sleep, maybe...news is pouring in. After 12am teams already met with players or spoke with them on the phone. Now more teams are traveling.

- The first news this morning came from Atlanta. They will be offering Joe Johnson the max, which comes to be over $115 million dollars, AND HE WILL ACCEPT THE OFFER.

- Smaller news, the Indiana Pacers are going strong after Jordan Farmar.

- According to sources Drew Gooden has VERBALLY agreed to a 5 year, $32 Million deal with the Milwaukee Bucks.

- Amar'e Stoudemire will visit the Knicks in NYC on Monday. He Spoke with head coach Mike D'Antoni over phone last night after meeting with the Miami Heat.

- The New Jersey Nets just finished a meeting with LeBron James and are now going to Miami to court Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

- The New York Knicks have confirmed that they will be meeting with LeBron James today in Cleveland.

- Breaking News: The Minnesota Timberwolves agree to a 4 year, $20 mil deal with Darko Milicic.

more to come keep it locked here.

Houston Rockets Make 1st Pitch to Chris Bosh

Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey was 1st to get in the ear of Chris Bosh.

He met with the prized free agent right away and had this to say following the meeting,

"Just finished meeting with Chris Bosh - great player & person. He is about winning so I focused on how with Houston he can win a championship."

I don't know how he thinks Houston can do that, but Bosh will certainly help. It is believed that Morey has coveted Bosh since day 1.

Byron Scott to Coach the Cavs

Breaking News...no one has signed yet...that will play basketball yet.

But Cleveland has a new coach...former New Jersey and New Orleans head coach Byron Scott will take over the reigns.

The Cavs fired Mike Brown after the Cavs were bumped from the playoffs this year.

The New York Knicks 1st step

The New York Knicks have confirmed their 1st move.

"Tonight, we will be meeting with Joe Johnson and Mike Miller in L.A."

Let's not forget, players can only verbally agree to contracts right now. They can not sign until July 8th.

And It Has Begun

It is officially July 1st.

NBA Free Agency has started.

Lebron James
Dwyane Wade
Amare Stoudemire
Dirk Nowitzki
Chris Bosh
Joe Johnson
Rudy Gay
David Lee
Carlos Boozer
Ray Allen
Richard Jefferson
Mike Miller
Paul Pierce
Shaquille O'Neal

and many more....where do they end up...I'll have all the news and rumors.