One of the best things about the NBA is not only the astounding skill and ability of the athletes that play across the country, but also the number of storylines that converge on any given night. Even this early in the season, in games that might not matter much to some fans, we already get the chance to see top-notch contests and eye-popping stats. For example: tonight features 2 of the best players in the game tipping off at the same time, yet playing vastly different opponents and bringing extremely unique storylines to the court.
Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant will both open up their fourth regular-season contest apiece tonight at 10:30, and both of them air nationwide. Durant has already hit 30 points twice this young season, and Bryant has dropped an average of 23.8 per game-if both continue to play deep into the season at their current pace, an MVP discussion might heat up. Looking at the Lakers' schedule, its' safe to say they could rip off 5 more wins before a November 14 showdown with fellow Western Conference nemesis Phoenix. But, these 2 stars aren't the only ones making headlines.
One can't possibly bring up this year's NBA without mentioning Celtics guard Rajon Rondo. The fourth-year vet is averaging an absurd 16.8 assists per game, and with 67 dimes in his first four contests, now holds the all-time record for most assists in the season's first four games. What's more, he has a good chance to further improve his average when the Celts tip off against the Bucks tonight.
However, despite so many impressive storylines in professional basketball,it's nice to maintain a local sports perspective as well, and to that end, I'll offer my thoughts on Michigan State's upcoming opponent, the visiting Minnesota Golden Gophers. The Gophers have dropped eight straight after a narrow season-opening victory over Middle Tennessee State, and have surrendered more than 30 points in six of those losses.Additionally, this defense ranks 105th in the country in terms of points allowed. While WR's Da'Jon McKnight and MarQueis Gray have done their part in combining for 13 touchdowns on the offensive end, its clear that their efforts haven't been enough to pull the Gophers out of this slump, nor have they allowed them to outscore anyone.
Following last week's sickening defeat, it seems that a home date with Minnesota is just what MSU needs to get back on track. But, they'll need to establish balance in terms of both their ground and aerial attacks, and start out quickly to quell any lingering unease after the Iowa City debacle. Most importantly, the Spartans need to play as if their season depends on this game, because in all reality, it truly does. If every week is the league championship game, then MSU has already backed itself into a one-loss hole. This week, they need to dig themselves out.
--Beau
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