Clippers 4-0!?

For the first time in over two decades, the Los Angeles Clippers have started the season 4-0. This is quite the surprise considering I included the Clips in my preseason Bottom Five. Without Elton Brand in the lineup I didn't expect the Clippers to make much noise this season, but these first four games have turned that notion around.

Before we get too worked up about this start let's take a look at who the Clippers have played. They opened up with a "W" over Golden State, who look pretty dissappointing this season. Then they dispatched a pathetic Sonics team, before taking out the under-achieving Bulls in Chicago. Tonight's game against the previously 3-0 Pacers have been the Clippers only real test, and they beat O'neal and the boys in convincing fashion. In Indianapolis. By 15 points.

How long will the Clippers streak last? Their next test comes against a currently unbeaten Pistons team in Detroit. If the Clips can survive in Detroit, then they may be able to stretch their streak to 9 games. I see them taking care of Cleveland and the Knicks at home before rematching with the Warriors and Bulls (who have a combined win total of zero.) I don't see the Clippers going 10-0, however, as they play Denver, Phoenix and New Orleans in a span of four nights.

I'm most looking forward to their first meeting "at" the Lakers on December 16th. Based on my predictions, the Clippers should come into that game at 14-8 and the Lakers at 13-9. In no way am I forecasting a classic-in-the-making, I'm just happy at the prospect that both clubs won't be fighting for the title of "First to five wins" in LA.

The Bottom Five

I got this idea from the good people over at ESPN (Eastcoast Sports Priority Network.) They do a weekly "Bottom Five" to go with their NCAAF Power Rankings, which rank the top 25 teams in the country, according to ESPN. The Bottom Five is essentially a list of the five teams having the worst week (or season.) So here's my Bottom Five for opening day of the 2007-2008 NBA Season:

5. Los Angeles Clippers: With the loss of Elton Brand and Shaun Livingston, the Clippers don't seem to have much in terms of star-power. Although they just signed Center and part-time caveman Chris Kaman to a multi-year deal and still possess Sam Cassel, Tim Thomas, Corey Maggette and Cuttino Mobely, I just don't see them finishing above last in the Pacific this season.

4. Seattle Supersonics: Although they did just land college phenom Kevin Durant in the preseason draft, the Sonics still don't have the parts needed to compete. With the loss of Ray Allen this club is clearly looking to build a contender around Durant. Unfortunately for fans, that may take several years. Oh yea, did we also mention that the Sonics may be calling Oklahoma City home by as early as next season?

3. Portland Trailblazers: The Curse of Sam Bowie. 'Nuff Said.

2. Los Angeles Lakers: You may be wondering why the Lakers are so low. Here's why: This is a team that already looks pathetic, can you imagine what they'd look like without Kobe? The trade rumors are intensifying, and as much as some loyal fans would like to believe he's staying, all sources point to a long exodus from Hollywood for Kobe Bryant. Outside of Lamar Odom, there is no star-power in this team and we're beginning to believe that the Lakers may be changing their name to "Kobe Bryant and the D-League 13" before tip-off tonight. Right now, it's a sad time to be a Lakers fan.

1. Minnesota Timberwolves: During the offseason, incompetent GM (and former Celtic) Kevin McHale traded superstar Kevin Garnett to Boston. In return, the 'Wolves received Al Jefferson, an '89 Buick, and whatever loose change was in Boston GM Danny Ainge's pocket at the time. I feel bad for the Lakers. I feel immensely worse for Minnesota. One ray of hope: A decent shot at next year's Number 1 Pick.



Side Note: You may be wondering why all five teams in my Bottom Five are from the Western Conference. Reason being: The Eastern Conference is essentially a farm league for the West and until proven worthy of mention, shall go unspoken. They're already embarrassed enough, I'm not going to drag them down anymore (unless Jimmy Dolan leaves me with no other choice.)