Jermaine O'Neal to Raptors

The best news today was my realization that Calderon is a restricted free agent. That means we can match any offer made to him! We will likely be able to retain him, and it becomes even more important now that TJ is no longer with us.

I liked TJ, but when compared to Jose, Calderon is better. I still think TJ is one of the fastest guards in the league, but his poor shooting really hurts the offense. Also, uncertainties about his health really make him a question mark in the Raptor's long term plans.

O'Neal used to be a great player, especially in his earlier years (when I had him on my fantasy team :) ). The key is whether he can come back from injury, and play like before. Bosh and O'Neal have very similar games, where they excel in the isolation post, so hopefully they won't get in each other's way. I am hoping it will work out like David Robinson and Tim Duncan did, although Bosh and O'Neal can't be compared to those two.

But overall, I'm happy that Colangelo isn't afraid to make big trades. Now they just need a SG and SF, one of whom will likely be a defensive specialist. Go Raptors!

Celtics/Lakers

Well the best possible matchup (entertainment) has happened! Even though it took some bad officiating in the Lakers/Spurs conference final, my wish has come true!

I think the Lakers are a better team overall, since their big 3 of Kobe, Gasol and Odom match up quite well with Boston's big three of Pierce, Ray Allen and Garnett. Plus they have the best player on the court in Kobe with a killer mindset that no one on Boston can match. Ray Allen has been struggling and if he is a nonfactor, Boston's chances are even slimmer. I'm going to pick Lakers in 6 (they'll have to win in Boston since the series is 2-3-2).

Regardless, I think it's going to be entertaining, who wants to get together to watch some ball?