Steve Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

by Patrick ‘Rey’ Reynell

View Part 1 of this discussion.

If you missed the introduction, we’re attempting to expand the NBA’s 50 Greatest Players to accommodate its 65th anniversary as a league in two seasons.

After Part 1, we have several worthy players. Here are the number of votes per player so far:

Tim Duncan – 4
Bob McAdoo – 4
Kobe Bryant – 4
Allen Iverson – 2
Adrian Dantley – 2
Maurice Stokes – 2
Chet Walker – 2
LeBron James – 2
Dan Issel -1
Bernard King – 1
Dennis Rodman – 1

Those names and their respective number of votes will remain intact. However, you can only vote for a player once. The 15 additions will be revealed after voting is finished.

Just as we did in Part 1, choose your next five players to be added to the list. Remember: You can no longer vote for the five players you selected in Part 1; their fate rests in the hands of others who may not have voted for them yet.

Here are my next five additions:

Tom Heinsohn – Hall of Famer. 8X NBA champion with Bill Russell’s Celtics. All-NBA second team for four straight seasons (1960-1964). Career averages of 18.6 ppg and 8.8 rpg in nine seasons.

Maurice Stokes – Hall of Famer. Career averages: 16.4 ppg, 17.3 rpg, 5.3 apg (as a F/C, mind you). Played in only three NBA seasons (two with the Rochester Royals), yet his total rebounds would actually be better than six other players on the 50 greatest list. Scored over 1,000 points in each of his seasons (202 career games, only eclipsed 70 games in a season once when he played in all 72). Led the league in rebounds per game in 1955-1956 as a rookie and won rookie of the year. Finished fifth in MVP voting twice. Finished third in assists the following two seasons. Made all-star team and second team all-NBA each season he played. (Thanks to Crossword Pete for bringing Stokes into the discussion!)

Kevin Garnett - 2004 MVP. Finished in top 5 in MVP voting six times, finishing as the runner-up twice (to Shaquille O’Neal in 2000 and Tim Duncan in 2003). NBA champion with the Celtics in 2008. 19.8 career ppg and 10.8 rpg. Great passer for a post player at 6’11″ with 4.2 apg in career. His 4,719 career assists would make him seventeenth on the 50 greatest list. Nearly a career 50% shooter, which is remarkable when taking into account that he takes a lot of mid-range shots and likes to face up to the basket.

Dominique Wilkins - Hall of Famer. Over 26,500 career points. Put up a lot of shots but was a relentless scoring threat. Averaged over 30 ppg twice (one scoring title) and 29 ppg three times with a career average of 24.8 (could be higher if he hadn’t returned to the league at 37 and 39). Chosen for nine consecutive all-star game appearances. Played during an era of Eastern Conference dynasties (Celtics, Pistons, Bulls) on an average team. Eliminated every year by either the Bulls, Celtics or Pistons except for Bucks in 1983-1984 and 1988-1989.

Dennis Johnson – Hall of Famer. 3X NBA champion (twice with Boston and once with Seattle). Won Finals MVP in 1978-1979 season with the Sonics. All-NBA first team in 1980-1981, second team in 1979-1980. 6X first team All-Defensive, 3X second team All-Defensive. Perhaps one of the greatest perimeter defenders of all time.

So there are my next five. You can agree, refute, or (in the spirit of Mt. Otsego) just add your ’splinters.’

Part 3

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>Joe Johnson wanted for theft

In case you’re like me and avoid the contract numbers, Joe Johnson left the 2010 free agency bonanza with the most money. The Atlanta Hawks will give him a reported $120 million for the next 6 years. That’s around $10 million less than Dwayne Wade and LeBron James. And don’t forget they fired their coach, the one who improved Atlanta’s record every year he coached them.

This has to be one of the worst contracts and worst front offices in professional sports. Not that this needs validation, but here’s some career playoff stats:

Dwayne Wade: 26.3 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 6 apg, 1.65 spg (2010 playoff low in points- 26)

Joe Johnson: 16.3 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 3.6 apg, .9 spg (2010 playoff low in points – 8 twice)

Who is Johnson’s agent? I want him to help me close on my next house.

>Chicago no slouch in the East

It seems like despite the Heat’s acquisitions, nobody wants to sleep on the Chicago Bulls. They have one of the best scoring point guards in the league, an energetic 6’11″ center, and now a legit power forward and a sharp-shooter. How must Deron Williams feel after Boozer and Kyle Korver fled Salt Lake City to join forces with Rose and Noah? When will his contract expire because I don’t see him in a Jazz uniform much longer.

Tom Thibodeau, the Celtics former defensive mastermind, will take the helm from Vinny Del Negro. The offensive weapons seem to be plentiful for Thibodeau, but can he recreate the defensive tenacity that made the Celtics so playoff-immortal?

Boozer seems like a better fit than Chris Bosh would have been; Boozer likes to play with his back-to-the basket and will create some space for a driving Rose and quick kick-outs for a Korver or Deng. Though I haven’t seen him play much since college, many NBA analysts are high on Taj Gibson and his possible rise as a second or third scoring option.

>LeBron James would be a great professional wrestler

People ask every once in a while which athlete would be the best at crossing over to another sport. A common answer is LeBron James to football. He was, after all, an all-state pick in high school. But since James’ new favorite term is “it’s business,” what about LeBron James to the WWE?

Come on – the spectacle Thursday night was something that I’m sure made Vince McMahon wonder, “Hey! He’s stealing my ideas!” What better industry to be a part of than the narcissistic adventures of bikini-brief clad, bodybuilding, novice actors?

I think LeBron practiced his speeches so well he started to believe them himself, the same way these wrestlers eventually morph into their characters in their real-lives. Has anyone reminded him that despite believing that Cleveland couldn’t put together a good supporting cast, they were the best team the past two seasons with over 60 wins in each?

He even referred to himself in the third person several times. See – just like The Rock used to do! He’s perfect for a WWE run. Just as in wrestling, businesses have to reinvent themselves in order to remain appealing.

Just look at these two videos and see if you can tell which is associated with the NBA and which with professional wrestling (Press play for both videos at the same time and mute them. I gaurantee you’ll chuckle):

I never thought a twitter post announcing a contract would come off as taking the higher ground, but thank you Kevin Durant for showing us what professionalism means in the 21st century!

>Should loyalty matter?

For a moment , try to forget how James decided to let Cleveland know he was leaving. The thing I’m most confused about is loyalty in sports. Dirk Nowitzki decided to re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks. He stayed loyal to his organization and will remain the first scoring option. James spurned loyalty to possibly become Wade’s Magic Johnson. Who has the better chance at titles?

Where do we stand as a fan base? Dirk probably won’t even bring the Finals back to Dallas. James on the other hand will undoubtedly reach the Finals multiple times in the next six years.

I think it’s safe to say most felt it was Nowitzki who needed to put loyalty aside and go somewhere to be the no. 2 guy, not James. Yet everyone wants to throw James under the bus and claim he isn’t competitive. Is this solely about who tries to do it alone, or who tries to create their best path to a championship?

Who made the better basketball decision? Let’s hear it from the ‘Pine.’

AP Photo/Michael Goulding, Pool

By Paul Gotham

Brief notes on the second round of the playoffs.

Eastern Conference

Celtics vs. Cavs

Cleveland grabbed the  one-game advantage. Is it a case of too little, too late for the Cs? Doc Rivers waited until now to call out Rasheed Wallace’s defense. It’s not like we didn’t see this coming. On the offensive end Rajon Rondo is going to need some help if the Celtics stand a chance. Does Boston have a scheme for LeBron? Was the elbow injury a case of gamesmanship by the Akron Hammer?

Hawks vs. Magic

The Hawks offer plenty of foul opportunities for Dwight Howard. Rashard Lewis will need to step up his game for the Magic. Vince Coleman will have to think about putting in some effort when closing out on Atlanta’s shooters. We will find out how good Jameer Nelson actually is. The Hawks struggled to contain Brandon Jennings in round one. Can Nelson take advantage. Al Horford vs. Howard in the paint? That should be a great match-up to watch.

Western Conference

Spurs vs. Suns

A little trivia for you. Who is arguably the best power forward in the history of the league? And on which team does he play? This same team has one of the top five point guards in the league, and this guy is coming off the bench. This team also has maybe the best triple threat guy in the league. Confused?

If Tim Duncan is not the best forward to ever play in the NBA, then who trumps him? How many point guards are there currently in the league better than Tony Parker? Can anyone question Manu Ginobili’s heart? Add to the mix George Hill, and the Spurs look dangerous.

Three years ago a David Stern interpretation of players leaving the bench area slowed the Suns. Since then Steve Nash and company have lost their way.

It will be interesting to watch how both teams try to dictate tempo.

Utah vs. Los Angeles

Jerry Sloan and crew will seek to avoid a third consecutive elimination from the playoffs at the hands of Phil Jackson and his followers. Many are suggesting Kobe has lost a step. He may be playing possum. Pau Gasol looked occasionally dominant as the Lakers took game one. Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer can shoulder the bulk of the load, but Utah will need more performances like the one they got from Paul Milsap.

Got a take on the NBA playoffs? Post them here.

By Paul Gotham

Eastern Conference

Bulls vs. Cavs

Maybe the Bulls could show as much spirit on the court as their coach, Vinny Del Negro, and GM, John Paxson, show off the court. I missed the announcement of “Joakim Rules.” Maybe Vinny should consult with Joe Girardi.  It’s kind of nice how the Bulls positioned themselves to be the Cavs’ appetizer. Chicago won 10 of its last 14 to get in the playoffs. Can Derrick Rose continue getting to the basket now that it is the playoffs, and teams will actually play defense? Can Shaq get in stride after a layoff? Does Shaq still have a stride? LeBron should be plenty rested.

Heat vs. Celtics

As far as seeds and numbers go, Miami winning would fall into the category of an upset. How many would be surprised if the Heat took this series? Does it matter any more that Boston swept the season series? The Cs have dropped eight of 13. Of course, it’s not like the Heat have anyone beyond D-Wade that they can actually count on from night to night. Do you hear that Michael Beasley and Jermaine O’Neal?

Hawks vs. Bucks

Has the potential to be the best first round series. Milwaukee will go without Andrew Bogut, but do not discount Scott Skiles and his ability to motivate the Bucks. Don’t forget, the Bucks have John Salmons who has the reputation for playing big in the playoffs. Salmons will need a great performance to thwart the Hawks.

Anyone looking for Marvin Williams will find him in Atlanta’s lineup. Jamal Crawford and Joe Johnson average 33 a game. Skiles’s defense should shrink those numbers.

Magic vs. Bobcats

Maybe the Vince Carter acquisition wasn’t such a bad idea after all. “Vinsanity” is averaging 16.6. More importantly, the “Iso King” is not disrupting Orlando’s offensive flow. Jason Williams is getting a second chance and making good on it. His presence along with Jameer Nelson’s make the Magic a contender. Congratulations to the Bobcats for qualifying for the playoffs.

Western Conference

Lakers vs. Thunder

You know things are not right with Lakers when Phil Jackson has to resort to mind games in the first round of the playoffs. Just when Kevin Durant showed maturity beyond his years, he goes and reacts to Jackson’s gibes. It will be interesting to see how many shots Durant takes in the first game or two of this series. He averages 20 shots per game.  What is there to not like about the Thunder’s roster: James Harden, Jeff Green, Nick Collison, and Eric Maynor. They have a good, young lineup. They are just not ready to win this series.  How much of LA’s success in the long run depends on Andrew Bynum’s Achilles’ tendon?

Nuggets vs. Jazz

Denver has lost their way since George Karl’s bout with cancer has taken him off the sidelines.  Carlos Boozer is a game time decision. Both lineups pack plenty of talent. Which team will get the most mileage out of their gas?

Mavericks vs. Spurs

Oh, the intrigue. Dallas looked ready for a title run after acquiring Caron Butler. Dallas has lost just seven games since getting Butler on February 16th. Does anyone want to play the Spurs in the playoffs? How much playoff experience do the Spurs have? Tony Parker is back in the lineup.

Suns vs. Blazers

Probably the most entertaining series. There will be plenty of scoring. Portland without Brandon Roy does not bode for the Blazers making any noise in the playoffs.

Splinters

Remember when Rey questioned Boston’s acquisition of Rasheed Wallace? If you don’t, click here. Bill Simmons added his commentary on the Celtics picking up Wallace. Read it here. Rey saw the smoke months ago.

Cheers to Lionel Hollins for showing Kenyon Martin how it’s done.

Give us your take on the NBA playoffs.

>Much Ado About Dunking

I was at a conference all last week. I briefly caught ESPN one day in my hotel room and noticed that a video of the infamous LeBron-James-getting-dunked-on-at-his-own-camp surfaced. In case this hasn’t been stuffed down your throat yet, here it is:

As we all expected, right? This was no big deal. Of course, many have over-analyzed this thing and want to explain why “it was weak” and so on. The major lessons all fans, especially young ones, are these:

1) A dunk is still worth two points or in the case of a pickup game, one.

2) EVERYONE gets dunked on at some point. It’s like an average hitter taking a great pitcher deep for about 460 feet. It happens, and it happens to the greats. I still remember a very young Allen Iverson crossing Michael Jordan over and Kevin Johnson dunking over Hakeem Olajuwon.

3) Hype breeds ignorant, hateful critics. There are many out there who want to see guys like LeBron James and Dwayne Wade fail for no reason. They’ll take any miniscule detail and use that as some viable evidence.

Thank goodness the tape came out and it’s now over.

>NBA Players not on the move

2009 Free Agency has been a whirlwind since it started this offseason. Many have changed teams, most recently point guard Andre Miller leaving the Sixers to go play with Brandon Roy in Portland for three years and $22 million. But there have been some names not moving as quickly as expected.

Sticking with point guards, who wants Raymond Felton? The Blazers went with the thirty-three old Miller, and who can blame them. But Felton’s numbers are not much different than Miller’s, and his salary last season with the Charlotte Bobcats was $4.1 million. Felton, however, is only twenty-six.

The Bobcats have another young point guard in D.J. Augustin who’s only twenty-one and made under $2.5 million last season. I’m surprised that the Bobcats and Felton have yet to reach a deal and that there doesn’t appear to be too many offers coming in from other NBA teams. The point guard position seems to be much less of a worry in the pros than it is in the college ranks.

Lamar Odom remains on the market. He and the Lakers have resumed negotiations after the Lakers rescinded their first offer. The Miami Heat have also shown Odom some options and Dwayne Wade has openly expressed his desire to bring the Rhode Island product to South Beach.

David Lee continues to search for suitors. The New York Knick met in Vegas recently with Portland but no formal offers have been announced. I thought Lee drew a lot of attention during this past season and he would sign quickly elsewhere. Knick teammate Nate Robinson also remains on the market.

I heard news of the Memphis Grizzlies possibly not re-signing Syracuse product Hakim Warrick in order to possibly sign Allen Iverson.

The Atlanta Hawks’ Marvin Williams is still classified as a restricted free agent. The latest update on his negotiations with the Hawks was on July 12. Hoops World says that the demands of Williams ($40 mil) and the amount the Hawks are willing to offer ($37.5 mil.) make it very likely that he’ll re-sign with Atlanta.

Sekou Smith, a writer at Hawks Blog, finds the title of HoopsWorld article to be a bit of a misnomer and cites some evidence that the projected offer/deal was simply not true. Smith goes on to provide his take on several different scenarios for the former UNC standout.

>If the WNBA has news, does it make a sound?

As of 3:44 PM on Saturday, ESPN.com’s lead article was the WNBA all-star game. I enjoy taking in a game once in a while. But for some reason, the games rarely make the news, which is why I was pleased to see the San Antonio Stars’ Becky Hammon and the Indiana Fever’s Tamika Catchings gracing the front page of ESPN’s web site.

Since the start of this WNBA season, I’ve heard the following news stories while giving the TV a cursory examination:

1) The Phoenix Mercury sold their jersey rights to LifeLock. Now the sponsor, not the team’s name, stretches in large font across the Mercury jerseys.

2) Candice Parker returned to the Los Angeles Sparks a couple months after giving birth to her first child.

3) Diana Taurasi was recently arrested for DUI.

That’s literally it; all the details are from memory. Anything else I know about the WNBA I looked up, and I watch ESPN and other sports stations much more than usual over the summer time.

Back to ESPN’s article. They pointed out the various strategies the WNBA had for promoting some interest in the all-star game. Among them were some of the players and analysts blogging and using twitter during the game.

When I went back to ESPN to view the box score, I couldn’t find a link to the game anywhere. And this was less than an hour after its conclusion. I had to go to the WNBA’s own page on ESPN.com.

David Sherman/NBAE/Getty Images

The Chicago Sky’s Sylvia Fowles dunked and pretty convincingly. Only thing is that the rest of players cleared out of the way so she could have a clear path to do so.

Many think the financial folding of the WNBA is inevitable now more than ever. It’s a shame to think that another women’s sports league will see its demise, after women’s professional soccer has made its return this year.

The WNBA conjures up so many negative connotations from “Joe Sports Fan” that it’s hard to imagine it ever being mainstream in America. Unfortunately, many of these “sports fans” have probably never seen a DI girls basketball game or professional game up close and in person.

On a personal note, congratulations to Temple-alum Candice Dupree. The fans voted Candice a starter for the first time in her WNBA career and she scored 12 points. She currently plays for the Chicago Sky and averages 15 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2 assists a game this season.

Got any NBA news or comments? Take a seat on the bench and let your ‘pickins’ be heard.