[ThaSaltCracka]

Bill Simmons had a thought about this new rule. He seemed to think it would lead to the refs actually enforcing the rules, ie travels, carries, and whatnot. So in essence the refs can make whatever call they see fit and not have to deal with on court antics from whiny players. I think its a good rule. Stern has come down hard the past two years to try and improve the image of the league. It started with the minimum age for drafts, then the dress code, now this. I support all of them. It will make people focus on the game and the emerging group of young, exciting players that the league has.

I just noticed a contradiction, the league is benefiting from all these young players, but a handful of them are straight out of HS. That being said, most of them did play some college as well.



A prediction of sorts for myself, Portland will surprise people, and I think the West will be very competitive. I don't see any team running away from the pack, except maybe Dallas or San Antonio. I think the gap between the good and bad in the west is smaller then people think.

In regards to the East, only two teams stand out, the Lebrons and the White Out's, err Heat. Anyways, NJ could surprise and also Orlando. But then the drop off is pretty far, with the bottom of the barrel being horrid.