Before I get to NBA basketball. Let's look at the top sports story out there, which is about the possible six game suspension of my homtown Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterback "Big" Ben Roethlisberger. The NFL Commissioner Roger Godell says it up to Ben what ultimately happens with this suspension of the first six games of the year. If he stays out of trouble and keeps his personal conduct up to proper standards. The Commissioner will possibly reduce the suspension to only four games. Personally, I think "Big" Ben will "WALK THE CHALK!". It's being reported that the Steelers Management has put it out there that if any team would like Ben and be willing to give up a first round pick and some other things. They MIGHT, opertive word here is MIGHT, consider trading Ben. Yea, right! They are not going to let him go anywhere but right there in "The Burgh." Trust me, Steeler fans would riot if the Rooney's even thought about letting Ben go. Let's be truthful about this. He is the heart of the team and they'll make do until he can play weather it's a six game suspension or a four game sit. The Steelers will be back on track right out of the box when the regular season is ready to kick-off in September 2010.

Now, on to the NBA and all the going ons during the current Playoffs. The L.A. Lakers just managed to get by the Thunder last night. Me and Stephan were cheering for Oklahoma to get 'em and really make a series out of this thing. They're on their way back home to Oklahoma City and we know their building is going to be rockin' as Kobe Bryant said in an interview las night. I think things are about to get interesting for the Lakers.. Boston put it on D. Wade and his bunch and are now up 2 - 0 on the Heat. As I predicted, the Phoenix Suns turned it around big-time against Portland, which we know was going to happen. Phoenix will win this Playoff Series. My man Grant Hill along with Steve Nash will carry this team to the next round at all cost. Watch what I tell you. It's a done deal! Tonight I'm really interested in seeing what happens between Dallas and San Antonio. I just can't seen the Spurs rolling over and dying during this series. Yes, these gentelmen are getting a little older, but that doesn't mean they can't still play the game at a very high level. Remember, "professional pride" also has alot to do with the outcome of these games throughout the league. Come on Spurs. Get it together and show the basketball sporting world you still are a force to be dealt with on the court! For you folks who haven't been paying attention. The Western Conference of the NBA, per the experts, is the toughest in the league. Keep an eye on the Lakers, Dallas and the Denver Nuggets in the West. The has some interesting match-ups also when it comes to Cleveland and the Orlando Magic. I still think Atlanta just might give some folks a little anxiety at this time of year. Think about some of this stuff I just mentioned and tell me what you're thinking and feeling. I'll pick it up later!

God's Blessings,

Walt "Baby" Love