SU has not rooted for the Knicks since the Isiah Thomas era so the fact that the Knicks are never competitive and boring to watch is a non-factor to me.  But I have subscribed to the NBA Season Pass for years in order to watch other teams and certain players.  But I have reached a point where I rarely even tune into that channel anymore.  Let’s explore why that is:

• Absence of team ball.  I think there may be more superstar players today than at any time but the style of play is too oriented to 1 – on – 1.  Golden State, Cleveland, San Antonio all play the right way and even Denver moves the ball.  I like the faster pace that we see today but you still have to get on D.
• The next tier teams are dominated by superstars who also tend to take about 25 shots a game.  Boston has Isiah Thomas, Toronto has DeRozan, Houston has Harden which is all well and good.  But I still do not find it entertaining to see one player dominate.
• SU is getting old. May be becoming cranky and less tolerant.  But I don’t think so.
• It’s a Star league and this is what the fans want.  I think that is likely true.  People like to see the 45 – 50 point outbursts by one player.  The 25-point quarters by a single player.
• Last night, I watched a few minutes of the Sixers – Wizards.  I like to check on Nik Stauskus.  Aside from the fact that the ball rarely finds him on offense, I was impressed with the speed of John Wall and he can go coast to coast in a blink of the eye.  But that’s all it is: no one else touches the ball on offense.  The Wizards got blown out.  So, does that really work?  If one player dominates and others can’t get in the flow, is that the way to play?
• Final point: SU is a big basketball fan.  I want better games and better teams that are fun to watch.  I think this is a problem.

All of which means we need to focus on baseball and of course, the NCAAs in March.  SU liked the comments from Jeff, Andy and Steve from yesterday.  Always good to see Met fans disparage the Yankee players.  SU has no problem with that but note to E. Steele, Jeff, and others: how about a little spring training intelligence from Port St. Lucie about the Mets?

I will give you my take.  No way the starters stay healthy – never happens.  Bruce needs to have a big year but I don’t feel like he has the mental make-up to play in NY.  Their roster is very solid and they should be competitive. Famillia is a must in the bullpen and who knows if he gets the Chapman treatment with a 50-game suspension.  And with their pitching staff, they should be in every game.  SU believes that they will once again dominate the back page of the NY tabloids as the Yankees are what they are.

For the Yankees, the key to watch come opening day is whether Cashman keeps the youngsters on the roster or seems to go with the wily veterans.  The other key is to see where Chase Headley hits in the line up.  If he is batting 7th or higher: 75-win season.  8th or lower (and with Ellsbury right behind him), there is hope.  You can also follow this in spring training.

Thoughts?  I know there are many NBA fans out there.  What am I missing?