"As of right now I don't plan on being in it," Griffin said Thursday night. "Those dunk contests aren't my thing, I said that last year. There's a lot of guys that can put on a great show and do some good stuff."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It doesn’t matter if it is or isn’t Blake Griffin’s thing.

Right now, the NBA needs Griffin. He, and Lob City, are appointment television, which brings back the casual fans, who has tuned out the league -especially after the lockout.

So Griffin needs to take part in the 2012 Slam Dunk Contest. He needs to defend his title, and put the greater good of the NBA first.

One of the more powerful and enjoyable images of the 2011 season was Griffin leaping a KIA and announcing to the world that he’s basketball’s newest superstar.

Fans, and those who hate the NBA, will tune in just to see him take part in the 2012 Slam Dunk Contest. That’s how powerful he is, and it could be another iconic moment.

Precedence isn’t on Griffin’s side, either. Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest player of all time, gladly took part twice in the Slam Dunk Contest.

So should Griffin. Targeted

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Of the 10 players to be announced as starters this year, eight of them were starters last season. Amar’e Stoudemire started at forward for the East last season but was replaced this year by teammate Carmelo Anthony. Anthony, who started for the West last season, was replaced by first timer Blake Griffin this year. The retirement of Yao Ming also opened a starting spot which was filled by Lakers center Andrew Bynum.

Clippers guard Chauncey Billups suffered a left Achilles' tendon injury Monday night, and there were concerns within the team it could be ruptured, which would end his season. "It felt like somebody kicked me, man," Billups said after the game as he made his way to the team bus with crutches under both arms and a walking boot on his foot. "I don't know if it's torn, but I know it's not good."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The curse of the Clippers isn’t dead.

After years of being the league-laughingstock, Los Angeles’ ‘other team’ appeared to have finally turned the corner and become relevant.

Of course, they have superstar Blake Griffin and fellow high-flyer DeAndre Jordan. This summer, the Clippers took a major step forward with the signing of Caron Butler and acquisition of Chris Paul, though.

The transaction that symbolized the club’s growth was claiming All-Star, Finals MVP, and NBA ‘OG’ Chauncey Billups off waivers from the Knicks through the CBA’s amnesty clause. 

Billups brought instant credibility, and his injury will hurt on-and-off court. After all, Mr. Big Shot is a play off vet’ and his resume commands respect from teammates.

Sadly, Billups is likely out for the season. And just when it seemed that the Clippers had taken a massive step forward, they have an unfortunate setback.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

"For me, social media and Twitter is all about connecting with your fans," James said. "From day one, that's why I got to Twitter, to connect to my fans."I would never apologize for anything like that when I'm connecting with my fans." James said he certainly never "called out" Perkins."I can see why he may have felt embarrassed," he said. "I don't think I was the only one that reacted to that unbelievable play by Blake, and that's what it was all about, me acknowledging how great of a play it was. If Kendrick Perkins had dunked on somebody else on the other end, I would have done the same thing. "I'm an easy target, let's leave it at that."

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Kendrick Perkins and LeBron James have no problem telling us how they feel, especially about each other.

Clearly, Perkins didn't like James teasing him on twitter after he got poster-jobbed by Blake Griffin in a recent game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers.

So Perkins responded. Now it's James' turn. Of course, the back-and-forth between these two isn't surprising.

Perkins and James have history. They two spent years battling each other for Eastern Conference supremacy with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers.

They may have changed teams, but are still rivals. 

James' Heat could meet Perkins' Thunder in the NBA Finals. Both players know this. And both players are attempting to gain an edge during the dog days of the regular season. 

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Does anybody care that Jeremy Evans and Kevin Love are your 2012 Slam Dunk and Three Point Shootout champions?

Of course, not.

In fact, the highlight of All-Star Saturday was TNT broadcaster Charles Barkley throwing zingers at past and present players.

Barkley's best moment was calling out current superstars for choosing to skip the Slam Dunk Contest, which has long been All-Star Saturday’s showcase event.

After all, Blake Griffin decided not to defend his 2011 Slam Dunk Title. And LeBron James again talked of participating but ultimately spent the night with teammate Dwyane Wade on the sideline.

So watch the videos below and get at HoopsVibe News with thoughts on All-Star Saturday.
 

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Expecting to go deep in the playoffs, the Clippers have lost eight of the past 12 games. An ESPN report before the game, citing an unnamed source, stated that Coach Vinny Del Negro had lost the team, but he refuted the report.

“When you are losing games everyone jumps on you,’’ Del Negro said. “If you can’t take the heat, you shouldn’t do the job. You have to win games and that’s what you are measured on. Players are frustrated and I’m frustrated. You are going to get knocked down sometimes, but you have to keep getting up.’’

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The players say they support Vinny Del Negro. And Vinny Del Negro says the players support him.

Here's the question: do you believe the Los Angeles Clippers?

It’s hard to take the Clipper players and coach seriously when they sit at fifth in the Western Conference with a 26-21 record.

Typically, five games over the Mendoza line and a potential playoff birth would make Clipper-nation weep with joy and have the NBA wondering if the league is in bizarro mode.

These aren’t those Clippers, the losers of years past. They have an inside-outside punch in Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, while the supporting cast has a primo talent in DeAndre Jordan and plenty of athletes.

Yet, the Clippers have underperformed and aren't the best team to call Staples Center home. Another run of poor games - they’ve won four of ten - and the Clippers would likely miss the playoffs because the Western Conference is so competitive.

So Del Negro is feeling the heat. Expectations, after all, were sky high when the Clippers acquired Paul in December.

Now coach and player must perform. Talk is cheap in the NBA.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The set-up was unique.

Typically, Blake Griffin gets his dunks off a Chris Paul assist -and not a back screen from the tiny table-setter.

On Monday evening, the 2011 Slam Dunk champ used the Paul pick and went straight to the hoop with a powerful one-handed tomohawk.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

He viewed the no-call as a continuation of the preferential treatment that Griffin has received from the NBA during his two seasons. ‘He’s babied,’ Cousins said. ‘He’s the poster child of the league. He sells tickets, but he’s babied. Bottom line.’ Babied by whom, Cousins was asked. ‘The refs, the league — period,’ he continued.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s how the NBA does business.

Right or wrong, fair or not, David Stern’s league has always protected their superstars, nudging referees to give the benefit of the doubt to top players.

More often than not, Magic Johnson got the whistle. Same with Michael Jordan during the eighties and nineties. And conspiracy theorists would argue the Los Angeles Lakers often had the zebras on their side.

So Sacramento Kings' post DeMarcus Cousins can’t be shocked, surprised, or upset that Los Angeles Clippers superstar Blake Griffin, the new face of the league, gets protection from the referees. In a way, Cousins benefits from this, too. After all, Griffin playing well improves fan interest, which increases revenues and drives salaries.

Of course, Cousins is competing against Griffin and is understandably frustrated. Sadly, there’s nothing he can do about it -as Blake-Zilla will continue getting favourable treatment from referees.

-Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“I’m definitely sick of taking hard hits,” Griffin said after the Clippers’ shootaround Monday. “…There’s a point, I can’t remember what game it was, in my mind where I thought this is kind of ridiculous. I’m sick of it, but it’s going to keep on happening.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Yesterday it was Derrick Rose. Today it`s Blake Griffin.

Two of the NBA’s greatest stars have recently gone public with their frustration over the hard fouls they’ve sustained from opponents. Rose took a nasty knock from Charlie Villanueva, while Griffin was head-hunted by Jason Smith.

Both should get used to the rough stuff. After all, superstars who embarrass opponents are targets. That’s the way it has been. And that’s the way it always will be.

Fortunately, there’s a simple answer.

Their teammates must dish out what they’ve been receiving. If Rose or Griffin take a shot then the Bulls and Clippers must give it back at the earliest opportunity possible.

The cheap shots only stop when opponents understand there’s a price to pay for taking liberties on Rose and Griffin. 

The earlier this message is sent, the better.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Robin Lopez goes for Griffin's head.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Playoff time is definitely here.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: They won’t beat Baron Davis or James Harden’s facial locks. They will give the masses at Staples Center and hoop heads around the world comedic entertainment.

The Los Angeles Clippers have started growing playoff beards to celebrate their return to the second season -much like teams in the National Hockey League do.

As mentioned in the video, forward Reggie Evans has a 'mile head start' on attaining the 'Rick Ross' look. Bottom line: the Clippers, having gotten over their mid-season struggles, appear relaxed, loose, and ready for the playoffs.

--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

The Los Angeles Clippers are tired of seeing Blake Griffin take hard fouls and have vowed to protect their All-Star forward if it continues. "I feel like people are intentionally trying to hurt him," Clippers center DeAndre Jordan said. "It'll all come back around."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: One Los Angeles Clipper, DeAndre Jordan, gets it. They must fight back.

For months, opponents have subjected superstar, franchise face, and NBA glamour boy Blake Griffin to hard fouls with little to no fear of retaliation from his Clipper teammates.

The 2011 Sprite Slam Dunk champ faces such tactics for two reasons. First, it sometimes throws him off. And two, opponents hit him with a hard foul to prevent him dropping a grand facial on their dome (you know exactly what we’re talking about).

Old time basketball is one thing. Fans of the Detroit ‘Bad Boys’ or those old Anthony Mason Knick squads have no issue with a wee donnybrook breaking out at an NBA game. The problem has been that the Clippers haven’t defended their star teammate by returning the hard foul when opponents drive the lane.

Part of this is personality. The Clippers are a young, loose bunch. Their focus has often been in question; many like star table-setter Chris Paul seem to enjoy the glitz of Los Angeles.

Part of this is on-court style. The Clippers are a fast, lively bunch who excel when in the open-court tossing each other highlight reel alley-oops.

Credit Jordan for stepping up and talking about sending a message. With the grind-it-out playoffs around the corner, he and the Clippers must do far more than talk, though.

--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Blake is 6-10 and what, 240 or something? He’s a big boy. He should know how to defend himself out there,’ Evans said.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The NBA has an unwritten rule called ‘Know Your Place’.

This rule is simple: a scrub like Reggie Evans can’t publicly call out a superstar like Blake Griffin.

Did Mike Smrek ever bust Magic Johnson’s chops to the L.A. Times? Did Stacey King ever tell the world that Michael Jordan should stand up to Rick Mahorn, Bill Laimbeer, and the Detroit Pistons? Mark Madsen replied ‘yes sir’ to every request from Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. 

Evans should consider precedence before going on the record with his criticism of Blake-Zilla. Of course, the journeyman is right. Griffin should defend himself. Just like Evans and every other Clipper should defend him, too.

Such a conversation should happen behind closed doors in the the locker room. Instead, it’s gone viral, which is the worst scenario for all involved.

Media and fans will be watching every time an opponent raises a hand to Griffin. And the only thing these young Clipper needs to be worrying about is the playoffs.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Blake Griffin's shoe rips from simply being stepped on.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Nike ends up embarrassed as their shoe falls apart. 

Blake Griffin is sponsored by NIke who can't be too happy these days. Griffin's Nikes fell apart on him mid game on national t.v. The incident makes his shoe look cheap and poorly made. I'm sure other shoe companies will be coming out with joking responses to the incident.

The rip took place when the Grizzlies' Marc Gasol accidentally stepped on Blake Griffin's foot while looking to post up. It was a play that could take place a hundred times during a game. One player simply stepped on another player's foot. The rip appeared to surprise Griffin who walked off the court looking at his shoe like it was a piece of trash. This is probably one more thing Nike reps weren't too psyched about.

Lucky for Griffin and his flimsy shoes, the Clippers travel with 3 pairs of his size 17 kicks. I guess when your shoes fall apart this easy you better travel with backup. I've had the same pair of cheapo kicks for 2 years. They might not cost $240 a pop, but then again they didn't rip when stepped on either.

Hennessy and GQ team up to celebrate CP3's first GQ cover.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: With a combo like Hennessy and GQ at the Sayers Club in Hollywood, it's safe to say this will be one banging event.

I showed up to the Sayers Club in Hollywood expecting an incredible night. The second I heard Hennessy and GQ were teaming up for CP3's October GQ cover release party, I knew this was going to be an amazing event. Plus, the confirmed celebs on the press Tip Sheet included names like Blake Griffin, Kid Cudi, Terrell Owens, Magic Johnson, Lamar Odom (could the Kardashian clan show up?), and Grant Hill, along with a number of Hollywood actors. This was my kind of crowd. Ok, my crowd is usually waiting in line at Target for a price check, but I could definitely get used to an upgrade, NBA / Hollywood style.

When I got there the the Hennessy and GQ reps as well as the manager of the Sayers Club greeted me, all were super chill. We set up and soon enough Caron Butler strolled down the red carpet in the VIP entrance of the Sayers Club. Not only did he have time for the press, but he also granted HoopsVibe an exclusive interview along with all of the Clippers as they arrived (keep an eye out these will be edited and on the site soon). This was going to be a good night. 

Having interviewed everyone from CP3 and Blake Griffin to TO, and Agent Zero, the red carpet was a wrap and it was time to head inside and enjoy the night. As I approached the bar I accidentally bumped into Talib Kweli. Oops. My bad, Talib, don't tell Mos Def. This high class elbow-rubbing was going to take some getting used to.  

The bar was of course serving Hennessy specialty drinks and who was I to disagree. CP3 and the Clippers socialized in the center of the room as the satellite celebs circled. The amazing Prince inspired R&B-Pop band "Miguel" soon took the stage and NBA All-Stars transformed into fans as they whipped out their iPhones to grab photos and video of the group primed for a mass appeal explosion. 

After the band had finished their set, CP3 hopped on the mic thanking everyone for coming out to celebrate his cover. GQ handed out copies of the October issue and I made sure to grab one. I mentioned I still shop at Target, right? This was an upscale night for an NBA All-Star that is just as classy off the court as he is on it.

For more info, updates, and gossip follow @HoopsVibe.

Video Coverage of GQ and Hennessy's CP3 cover launch party.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: HoopsVibe talks one-on-one with Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, Terrell Ownes, and more at CP3's GQ cover release party.

HoopsVibe is on location at Sayers Club in Hollywood, CA to cover the Chris Paul GQ release party sponsored by Hennessy. The stars walked the red carpet as we caught up with some of the NBA's most popular players just as they are set to return to camp for the 2012-2013 season. 

The event was put together by Hennessy and GQ Magazine to celebrate Chris Paul's first ever GQ cover. Watch Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan dish on which Clipper have the worst fashion sense as Matt Barnes and Chris Paul talk about trying to find clothes they're wives dig. Even T.O. chats with HoopsVibe about how Sports influence fashion and fashion influences Sports. 

It's a classy night for a classy man, as CP3 leads the Clippers to the promise land of style. Hennessy handles the party with R&B-Pop sensation "Miguel" killing it on the mic. See how this amazing night all got started as HoopsVibe chats with NBA All-Stars and Hollywood celebs on the red carpet.

Clippers staying focused as they tear apart the West.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Could the Clippers really be this good? Are they built for the playoffs?

The fans have spoken.  Here are the East and West starting lineups for the 2013 NBA All-Star game.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Most of these ballers deserved it, but a few are questionable.

Sometimes even the most humble players let their emotions get the best of them.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Kevin Durant may be tied for the league lead in technical fouls, but he's still the man.

In a league full of physical specimens, these are the best.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: You won't find Kris Humphries on this list, or Big Baby.

10. Amare Stoudemire

Shirtless pics of Stoudemire are the rule, not the exception. And why not, he's earned it. Now working his way back to regular minutes after injury, Stoudemire will be back to full strength soon, with more pool photo shoots to follow.

9. Carlos Boozer

Boozer is great at staying under the radar for the most part. But in a year where the Bulls have needed him to step up and solidify the front court, the veteran has done that. 

8. Kobe Bryant

Kobe's inclusion on this list may elicit a few boos, but the way he has transformed his body during his career warrants some respect. From entering the league as a skinny 18 year old, Kobe has put on a little more muscle every year and you can tell it has paid off by the way his game has become more physical, and less about put jumping defenders, over that time.

7. Ray Allen

Ray Allen has been ripped for years but doesn't really get the credit as such because he is a perimeter player who makes a living draining threes- a specialty which isn't often seen as being based on strength or physicality. I don't know about you, but I would be shirtless all the time if I was Ray Allen. Especially at his advancing age.

6. Blake Griffin

Griffin's leaping ability and athleticism grab most of the attention and highlights, but he is as strong as any front court player in the league. He gets criticized for "only being able to dunk" but the fact that he puts himself in that position time and time again even though every one knows it's coming show how strong he is.

5. Serge Ibaka

Pound for pound, maybe the strongest player in the league. Ibaka is built like a comic book hero, straight up. Anybody with an 8-pack and leads the league in blocks qualifies for this list.

4. Andre Iguodala

Speaking of comic book hero type bodies, Iguodala definitely fits into that category. The balance and symmetry of his physique lends itself to his game; balanced in all aspects, equally productive across the board. In addition, he always seems incredibly smooth and relaxed, just like his build.

3. Metta World Peace

"Ron Ron" is a beast. Just when you think he's mellowed out and forgotten how much of an intimidating force he can be, he deftly punches Detroit's Brandon Knight in the clinch. At 6-7, a jacked 240 pounds and with the potential to go off at any moment, it makes him seem even more ripped in my mind. But him being mental shouldn't detract from how much a physical specimen Ron Ron is is.

2. Dwight Howard

Love him or hate him, D Howard has arguably the most impressive physique in a league full of players with impressive physiques. While toughness is something Howard definitely lacks (especially of the mental variety), the width of his shoulders cannot be questioned; has there ever been a wider NBA player? And I don't mean "wide" like Oliver Miller.

1. LeBron James

Even if you don't think he is the most jacked player in the league, you have to acknowledge that he uses the strength of his body on the court better than any player in the league, maybe even ever. How many times do you see Bron Bron take a player attempting to guard him straight up from the top of the key right to the rim, with ease? It isn't that easy, he just makes it look like it is because he is so strong.

For more news, info and updates, follow us on Twitter @hoopsvibe

Image Credit: Creative Commons

I want to go on record right now and say:  Blake Griffin is hilarious in those Kia commercials.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Blake Griffin is the best thing that's happened to Kia in a long time.  Well, other than Adriana Lima, of course.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is creating a media stir once again, and this time, it's by saying he would draft Baylor University women's basketball star Brittney Griner.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Either Cuban knows something we don't or he's just completely messing with all of us.

Just in time for the playoffs, Jordan Brand is making a fashion statement for some of the best players in the game.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Pay attention "Sneakerheads" or you might miss something!

Top 10 Los Angeles Clippers Ever.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: I know everyone's thinking CP3, but what about Danny Manning and Bob McAdoo?

#10 Bill Walton. They weren't his best years in the league, but in Walton's time with the Clippers he still managed a solid double-double.

#9 Bob Kauffman. He was a three-time NBA All-Star for the Clippers in the early 1970s.

#8 World B. Free. Besides having the coolest Clipper name of all-time he also was an NBA All-Star and averaged 28 and 30 PPG in two seasons with the Clippers.

#7 Corey Maggette. He was a multi-faceted scorer who lead the league in free-throws made and attempted. 

#6 Danny Manning. Manning was the number one pick of the 1988 Draft and probably started the whole Clippers Curse. He averaged a respectable 14 PPG with a career-high of 22.8 PPG.

#5 Randy Smith. Who's Randy Smith? Smith's the franchise's leader in minutes played, assists, games played, steals and points. He dates back to the Buffalo Brave days, so most modern day fans probably don't know his name. He was an NBA All-Star and one of the most dynamic scorers of his day.

#4 Blake  Griffin. He's averaged 20 PPG and 10 RPG since being in the league three season ago, but perhaps most importantly he has been a key piece to a 3 impressive winning season with the Clippers that has brought unprecedented success to a team historically destined to lose.

#3 Elton Brand. He was a similar player to Blake Griffin in a lot of ways. They are both 20 PPT and 10 RPG players and imposing players at their position. Brand simply did it longer for the Clippers and thus nudged out Griffin. I would expect Blake to take over this number three spot in the near future, but for now it is Brand's. He played with the Clippers from 2001-2006 and put up solid 20 PPG number over that entire time. He was an NBA All-Star during this period, the league leader in rebounds, and the franchise leader in total rebounds.

#2 Chris Paul. CP3 has averaged 16.9 PPG, 9.7 APG, and 3.7 RPG since he's come into the league. He's only improved on those numbers with the Clippers the last two seasons. Two seasons that have brought more wins to LA than the Clipper fan base know what to do with. He's also a six time All-Star, rookie of the year, All-Star MVP, been the NBA steal leader 5 times, and won a ton of other awards. He's current leader of the team and largely responsible for their current success. 

#1 Bob McAdoo: 

I'm sure a lot of modern day Clipper fans are scratching their heads at this one, but McAdoo was one incredibly dominant player. This dates back to when the franchise was the Buffalo Braves before they came to Los Angeles. McAdoo averaged 28.2 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, and 2.5 BPG as a brave. Not to mention he also had three 2,000 point seasons three of his four years with the team and had a league-leading 34.5 PPG in 1975 that season averaging 37.4 PPG in the playoffs.

For more info, updates, and dirty filthy NBA gossip follow @HoopsVibe.

Stephen A. Smith creates a stir claiming the Clippers are in talks to execute a blockbuster trade with the Celtics.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  This rumor sounds almost too ridiculous to be true, but it's interesting nonetheless.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Anything LeBron James can do Blake Griffin can do better, right?

During Sunday‘s clash between the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls, James hurdled John Lucas III on a backdoor alley-oop that left fans in awe.

The highlights were just starting, though.

Just one day later, Griffin left Staples Center speechless with his poster-job on Oklahoma City Thunder post Kendrick Perkins.

So, which dunk is play of the year? LeBron making like Vince Carter on that French dude at the Sydney Olympics or Griffin giving Perkins the ‘Mozgov’ treatment?

Watch both videos and get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

I’m not talking about Javaris Crittenton dangerous. It’s more like “scary player can dominate the NBA like Jordan” dangerous. The kid right now is already in many people’s top ten lists. Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Tim Duncan, and Shawn Kemp were not THIS explosive. They were not this good early in their careers. Griffin is so good that I had to acknowledge that he might be a future triple double factory in this piece. Seriously, how great can this kid get without factoring in injuries like he sustained in his first year?

Magic Johnson was a triple double machine 6-9 point guard. There will not be any one reaching “NEAR” Michael Jordan level anytime soon, but is there anyone who can reach near Magic Johnson? Magic has 138 career triple doubles in the regular season and 30 triple doubles in the playoffs from a career 190 playoff games. His career averages are 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 11.2 assists. Those are ridiculous numbers for anyone to obtain. What players today have the skills to do that?

SheridanHoops.com learned exclusively Monday that Howard recently expanded his list of preferred future destinations, adding the Clippers to a list that already included the Nets, the Mavericks and the Lakers. “He’s been watching them a lot. He’s intrigued by the Clippers,” said the source, who is privy to the trade talks that have taken place between all of the aforementioned teams.

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Times have changed.

It wasn't long ago the Los Angeles Clippers weren't in the running for anything except the first pick at the draft much less a superstar center like Dwight Howard.

After all, the Clippers were a laughingstock. Their owner wanted luxury tax rebate cheques, not wins. They drafted Benoit Benjamin, Danny Ferry, and Michael Olowakandi. Worst of all, they played in the shadow of the league's glamour team, the Los Angeles Lakers.

Sure, there were moments. A few years back, Sam Cassell and Elton Brand pushed the Phoenix Suns to seven games in the Western Conference Semi-finals.

The Clippers have mostly been a disaster.

Everything changed with Blake Griffin. 'Lob Angeles' is must-see television, and people listen when reports link Los Angeles' newest darling to Howard.

But it won't happen. The Magic will want Griffin in return for Howard. The 2011 Slam Dunk Champion is untouchable, as he's made the Clippers trendy, glamorous, and relevant.

Instead, the Magic may ask for newly acquired Chris Paul. Forget that the Clippers paid a pretty-penny for the point guard. And forget that both sides agreed to work together for two seasons.

Paul would likely refuse to sign a long-term extension with the Magic, and simply opt-out at season's end and become a free agent.

Sure, times have changed. The Clippers are a destination-team. Still, they lack the parts to trade for Howard and become his next destination.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: I won't go there. I won't mention that Blake Griffin added to Kris Humphries' woes by 'posterizing' Mr. Kim Kardashian.

I'll simply say that below is your daily Blake-Zilla highlight, so click the link, watch the video, and get at us with thoughts in the comment box below.

 Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Read parts one, two and three of this series here. In ranking these champions, I want to completely exclude their overall skill as basketball players, and focus solely on their ability to dunk the basketball. Also, I think era in which they were dunking in is very significant, as is height. With those parameters laid out, let me throw the second five names at you, in no particular order. Of these five, I will rank them by reader comments via Hoopsvibe.com, Facebook and private emails.

The stretch 4 business is serious business. Basketball purists have been complaining about the lack of quality at the center position for years now. They’re right. Look further down – the power forward position has also evolved in to this stretch 4 trend. What is a stretch 4, you ask? He’s a tall guy, usually 6-9 or taller, and plays from the perimeter. He barely posts up preferring to shoot instead of being a bruiser. 

I believe I'm the best '4' in the league. I think you have to believe that you're the best. I think Mohammad Ali even said, 'I was the greatest before I knew I was.' I think everybody needs to have that mindset. That's part of winning the mind game from the very start. You have to believe it. You have to hold yourself accountable.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Kevin Love, not yet.

Yes, Love collects double-doubles for the upstart Minnesota Timberwolves like a teenager collects friends on facebook.

Yes, Love is an emerging All-Star and superstar with a personality ESPN and companies love.

And yes, Love’s play and personality may be the biggest reason the Timberwolves transition from oddball outpost to relevant NBA franchise. (Of course, this depends on Love signing a long-term extension to stay in The Twin Cities.)

Right now: Dirk Nowitzki, not Kevin Love, is the world’s best power forward.

After all, Nowitzki is a former MVP, perennial All-Star, and led his Dallas Mavericks to the 2011 NBA championship.

Don’t forget about Blake Griffin, the dynamic four-man who has made the Los Angeles Clippers competitive, relevant, and must-see television.

However, Love deserves credit for believing he’s the best, as such a mindset will help him grow, improve, and maybe one day become the NBA’s permier power forward.

Just not now.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Just another day in the office for Blake Griffin, the highlight producing power forward for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Last night Griffin dunked with ferocity on Ersan Ilyasova, and his Clippers cruised to victory over the beaten up Milwaukee Bucks. Watch the video below and get at us with thoughts in the comment box below.

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People are getting hyped over the film “Fast Five” starring Vin Diesel as opposed to even thinking about the big surprises in fantasy basketball this season. I am doing just that. I’m here for you guys. I got your back. Go check out the film and tell me where Michelle Rodriguez ends up. Then come back and read this article to prepare for next season. Some money is on the line. Get some advantage right here if you’re lazy to do some research for yourself.

I come in peace, but I’ll talk about this. This has to be addressed. Welcome to LeBron’s new nightmare. The Miami Heat is getting $hi#$ed on by the full media blitz. It’s not over. It’s never going to be over with the public onslaught. There is more to come, but no one has mentioned this particular item. I write this with full sincerity - LBJ will not win MVP ever again. This is a bold claim, but there are many reasons to see why.

“It’s a preseason game,’ Barnes said after Thursday’s practice at the Lakers’ facility in El Segundo. ‘Yeah, they’re catching lobs and dunking. But it’s just a preseason game. Let’s just play basketball. If you make a dunk, act like you’ve done it before. He’s got hundreds of them. There’s no need for the hoorah after every single dunk. It’s unnecessary.’

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Los Angeles’ two NBA teams, the Clippers and Lakers, don’t care for each other. Not one bit.

After all, Los Angeles was always a Laker town. They had The Logo, Wilt the Stilt, Kareem, Magic, Big Game James, Shaq-Fu, Kobe Bean, Andrew Bynum, and others.

While the Clippers could never attract or keep top talent because owner Donald Sterling wouldn’t open his wallet or spend the luxury tax payments he received from league head office.

This age-old dynamic is changing. The (natural) order of Los Angeles’ basketball teams could flip flop in 2012.  

The Lakers, who are still talented, are in transition, while the Clippers have Chris Paul at point guard; Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan down low;  and veterans like Chauncey Billups, Caron Butler, and Mo Williams.

Here’s the biggest shock: the Clippers are the glamour team. Griffin and Jordan’s aerial antics will receive endless love on ESPN, youtube, and twitter.

And some, like the Lakers' Matt Barnes, don't appreciate the post dunks celebrations.

Too bad.

Barnes better realize times have changed. These are the new Clippers.

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"Obviously, man, your pride is hit," Williams said. "Then once you get outside of the pride part of it, you start looking at the basketball aspect of it. "And everybody in the world knows I want to win. Everybody in the world knows that it's a good move for the city of Los Angeles. It's a good move for the Clippers organization. Outside of that, outside of my pride, that was just me getting over it."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: I don’t see this as an issue in Clipper-land.

Obviously, newly-acquired Chris Paul will start. Chauncey Billups will serve as the back-up and play major minutes next to Paul. And Mo Williams, a former All-Star, will get tons of burn as a Jason Terry-style scorer off the pine.

Williams is a good guy and teammate. He has bought into his new role.

Here’s why: the Clippers are relevant. Very relevant.

With Caron Butler, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, and their trio of point guards, the once sad-sack Clippers have enough talent to overcome being owned by The Don -Donald Sterling.

And that is saying something.

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Lately, I’ve been hearing that the “Franchise Player” concept is dead in the NBA. There is no such thing as a franchise player. There are super teams instead. I’m here to tell all of you that you’re wrong – dead wrong. The way teams are built in this league calls for a franchise player. The player is usually extremely talented and skilled with an ability to get numbers.There are only 12 or so players on team. One player can make a huge difference. I’ll explain why this concept will not die.

The top 5 are only reserved for the heavy hitters. This section is made up of fresh faces. Everyone is so wrapped up into the point guards and dying centers that not many are noticing the power forwards. What’s up with that? The position is filled with plenty of young talent making it almost as deep as the point guards. The only thing I noticed is the lack of good defensive power forwards. Stats are up to date as of December 2, 2010.

The preseason is here. It is time to get things back on track. Every team on every preseason usually has fluff pieces made painting pictures of potential and promises such as high expectations with a lot of smiles shown in media photos. Fans buy into that thinking happy thoughts and see a chance to turn it all around unlike the previous season. Well, do not fall for that trash. It’s all useless tripe.

With the 2011 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest right around the corner, dunk fans have been wondering just what this year's field is going to do in the big show. Check out the video below to hear this year's four high-flyers talk about All-Star Saturday's aerial showdown. Let us know who you think is going to take the crown this year by dropping a comment at the bottom of the page.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Locked-out NBA players have time on their hands.

For instance, Kevin Love and Blake Griffin, following up on their ESPN spoof, have become celebrity endorsers for the popular game Jenga.

The superstar forwards even found time to film a Jenga commercial. Click the video below, watch it, and get at us with thoughts in the comment box below.

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“We’ll see what happens,” Griffin said. “Right now my commitment is to the Clippers, and we’re working on making that team better. I know the Thunder are doing a great job here and everybody’s excited about them.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It sounds good. Kevin Durant and Blake Griffin with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

And Griffin seemed open to signing with the Thunder when asked what he'll do when he becomes a restricted free agent in 2014.

This isn't just speculation; the dots do connect. 

First, the Thunder has a top player in Durant. Second, the Thunder is well-run -unlike Griffin’s current team, the Clippers. And finally, Griffin went to college in Oklahoma.

Unfortunately, Oklahoma City is one of the NBA’s smallest markets with few opportunities for marketing and branding. Los Angeles, even if Griffin is with the Clippers, is a massive market, which attracts sponsors.

So signing with the Thunder would be good for Griffin's NBA career, while staying with the Clippers would be good for his wallet.

Bottom line: rumors of Griffin’s departure will continue unless the NBA puts a franchise tag or other clauses in the new collective bargaining agreement. 

--Oly Sandor.

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According to Impact owner and renowned trainer Joe Abunassar, the Clippers' Blake Griffin, Mo Williams and Randy Foye came by last week and expressed a desire to enter the league with a team made up solely of their teammates.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Los Angeles Clippers are on the verge of a breakthrough.

Yes, I’m talking about those Clippers. Yes, I know their history. And yes, I know they are owned by Donald Sterling, also known as The Don or The Worst Owner in Pro Sports.

None of that matters, though.

The Clippers resemble the Sacramento Kings of yesteryear, specifically the 1998-99 lockout shortened season when a squad led by Chris Webber, Jason ‘White Chocolate’ Williams, and Vlade Divac went 27-23.

Those Kings not only entertained but possessed a togetherness that made them a force in the Western Conference for the next five years.

Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, and the Clippers were a League Pass must-see last year, however, they also turned the corner and played some solid basketball.

Now reports indicate that the Clippers, as a team, want to join the new league that Impact Basketball is organizing for mid-September in Las Vegas.

So the Clippers are united; Griffin, their superstar, is leading. And L.A.’s other squad seems poised to take another step in 2012 -if there’s a season. 

--Oly Sandor.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

"I haven't stopped working out really since May," Griffin said. "It's been every day, sneaking it in whenever I can." Griffin says it's frustrating for him to think that the NBA games may be interrupted after his first season playing in the league. Griffin missed all of the 2009-10 season with a broken kneecap after he had been the No. 1 draft pick out of Oklahoma. "Now my first three seasons, I could play 82 games," Griffin said. "So, we'll see what happens."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Last year was overwhelmingly positive for the NBA.
 
The sporting world was galvanized by Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James joining forces and becoming the ‘Heatles’ in Miami.

Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd’s hard work was rewarded with an NBA championship, guaranteeing both immediate entry into the Hall of Fame when they retire.

Derrick Rose won the MVP award, leading the Chicago Bulls to the league’s best regular season record and a place in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder took another step winning two playoff series before falling to Nowitzki and Kidd’s Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals.

The Memphis Grizzlies made the playoffs and upset the San Antonio Spurs. After years of futility, the Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers were relevant and entertaining.

There are other storylines I’m missing.

For instance, high on this list is the emergence of Blake Griffin, whose aerial antics reminded the world there’s a professional basketball squad in Los Angeles not called the Lakers.

(And this squad, the Clippers, can compete and delight despite being owned by the twisted and incompetent Donald Sterling.)

Suppose there’s a lockout. One that wipes out the entire season. Griffin, who missed 2009 with injury, will have played just eighty-two games in his first three seasons.

Fans would have to wait a year to see Griffin assault the rim. Fans would have to wonder what Griffin would do to defend his crown at the 2012 Slam Dunk Contest. And fans, the purists, would have to wait a year to see Griffin’s above average passing and skill-set develop.

This is tragic. And just another thing Commissioner David Stern, the owners, Union Head Billy Hunter, and the players are risking with their posturing and rhetoric.

I hope they know what they’re doing. Griffin missing another year should be a last resort.

--Oly Sandor.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: How do you celebrate winning the Rookie the Year award in the NBA? Well, if you’re Blake Griffin by appearing on The Conan O’Brien show, of course.

Click the video and watch Griffin discuss his first year in the NBA, the 2012 Slam Dunk Contest, and the upcoming 'Blake' show.

--Oly Sandor.

Get at us with thoughts in the comment box below and get at us with thoughts in the comment box below.     
 

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It was enough to almost make your forget Blake Griffin.

Key word: almost.

Instead of taking the easy lay-up, Mo Williams tossed it up for the Los Angeles Clippers’ other high-flying youngster: DeAndre Jordan. The end result was a Dirk Nowitzki poster job.

Get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box with thoughts on the Williams-to-Jordan alley-oop.

--Oly Sandor.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Revenge is best served cold. Or with a deadly swat.

About a month ago, the Los Angeles Clippers’ Blake Griffin topped the Washington Wizards’ JaVale McGee to win the Slam Dunk Contest.

Griffin won the competition with his memorable car leap, neutralizing McGee’s effort, which included having his mother give cheek pecks (and a little something more to Dr. J) to the judges.     

Last night McGee got revenge. Well, sort of. He swatted the you-know-what out of a Griffin shot attempt.

Of course, Griffin’s Clippers beat McGee’s Wizards in triple overtime. And the sure-fire Rookie of the Year candidate also dropped a triple-double in the victory.

McGee had his moment, though. Watch the clip and get at us with thoughts on his incredible block in the comment box below.

--Oly Sandor.