admin_Kenny
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| 01/09/2008 5:08 PM |
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Alright, here we go.
I decided to create a new thread which deals only with playbooks from
NBA 2K8. If anyone has something to add on about plays, or have a
different of opinions on things and stuff for certain teams, please do
so. This thread is not only for what I have, but for everyone.
First up... the Pistons. Starting lineup:
PG - Chauncey Billups
SG - Richard Hamilton
SF - Tayshaun Prince
PF - Rasheed Wallace
C - Antonio McDyess
Like I had mentioned in another thread, I chose to move Rasheed Wallace
to power forward spot instead of the default center position. Why?
Because there are several more plays in the Pistons playbook that
involves the PF as opposed to the C. And this is the position which
will best utilize Sheed and showcase his skills. The other tough
decision I found I had to make is choosing who to start as center
between Antonio McDyess and Jason Maxiell. I chose Dice because he’s a
better defensive rebounder then Maxey. Now to the plays:
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set)
This is a Post play basically designed for Sheed. Billups has the ball
at the top of the key, then moves to the left wing as Sheed comes over
to set a screen. After setting the screen, Sheed goes into left block
to set up in the post. Next, Billups get Sheed the ball in the post.
But that’s not all, as there is a cool alternative option in this play.
Pay close attention to Rip standing left corner in the beginning of the
play. As Billups moves to the left wing, Rip moves along the baseline
then curls to top of arc where Billups had been. The backdoor layup is
there for Rip before going past the basket if the defense is sleeping
and Billups can make that timely yet risky pass.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
This play is pretty much self-explanatory. It’s a Pick & Roll play
on the left wing involving Rip and Sheed. Billups has the ball at the
top of the key, then moves left and passes to Rip standing on the left
wing. When Rip gets the ball on the wing, Sheed comes over to set a
screen for him. From here it’s your typical P&R basketball between
these players.
PG Postup (Baseline 1 set)
This is a Post play for Billups. First, Billups has the ball at the top
of the key, then moves over to the left and passes the ball to Rip
standing on the left wing. After Billups passes the ball, he moves to
the left block. Then Rip gets the ball to him Billups sets up on the
block.
PF Low Post (Flex 4 set)
This is a Post play for Sheed. Billups has the ball at the top of the
key, while Rip is standing in the right corner. Rip moves up toward the
right wing behind the arc, then Billups passes the ball to him there.
Once Rip has the ball, Sheed goes over to set up in the right block.
Then Rip makes the low post entry pass to Sheed on the block.
SG Spotup (Motion 2 set)
This is a Screen play for Rip. Billups has the ball at the top of the
key. Tay sets a baseline screen as Rip moves along the baseline from
right corner to left corner. As that player movement is going on, Dice
sets screen at free throw line area as Sheed moves from right side to
left side of FT line. Next, Rip makes a cut around a screen set by
Sheed at the left elbow. At this time, Billups moves over to his left
and passes the ball to Rip as he comes off Sheed’s elbow screen. This
opens up playmaking options for Rip. He can shoot the ball on the
catch, continue moving to drive to the basket, or he can look to pass
the ball right back to Billups for a 3 if he draws help defenders.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
These are a couple Isolation plays for Billups. “PG Clearout” has
Billups standing at the top of the key, while “PG Wing Iso” has him
standing at the left wing near the arc. I paired these plays up because
one or the other having both as Billups is not a great one-on-one
player who is worth taking up 2 slots for Iso plays. Still, I think
it’s best to go back and forth on these plays so the defense can’t
getting adjusted to seeing a particular one repeatedly.
Motown Music (Flex 3 set)
This is a cool play mainly involving the guards. First, Billups has the
ball at the top of the key while Rip is standing on the left corner.
Tay moves over from right wing to set a screen for Billups. Then
Billups moves over to his right staying behind the arc. Meanwhile, Dice
moves over from the left block to set screen for Rip at the corner. Rip
then continues to move to the right along the baseline behind another
screen set by Sheed near the basket. Billups then has the option to
either shoot the 3-ball coming off the screen from Tay, or pass the
ball to Rip as he comes of the screen from Sheed. Rip will have a
catch-and-shoot opportunity on the right wing if Billups indeed chooses
to pass the rock.
Pick & Pop (Flex 3 set)
Finally, I have to show Tay some love with a play for him. Here is a
play involving he and Sheed. Billups is standing on the left side of
the court behind the arc while Tay is on the opposite side. Billups
moves toward the top of the key and passes the ball to Tay while he’s
on the right wing. When Tay has the ball on the wing, Sheed comes over
to set a screen for him. Then from here it’s your standard side Pick
& Pop play. Tay dribbles toward the baseline, while Sheed moves
over to the right elbow. From this point, Tay has the option to either
drive to the cup, stop and shoot the midrange J off the dribble, or
pass to Sheed for a catch-and-shoot opportunity.
Now for the Clippers. Here is the starting lineup:
PG – Sam Cassell
SG – Cuttino Mobley
SF – Corey Maggette
PF – Elton Brand
C – Chris Kaman
No surprises here. I know Corey Maggette has his issues and all, but
there’s no way in hell I would start Quentin Ross over him. Now for the
plays:
PF Low Post (Flex 4 set & Triangle 4 set)
I paired these Post plays because I didn’t want to overload slots with
Post plays even though these plays are designed for the Clippers best
player in Elton Brand. It’s best to alternate between choosing both
plays at different times of a game. Anyway, the former play out of the
Flex 4 set is the same way as explained in the Pistons playbook, except
it would be Mobley will be delivering the low post feed to Brand in
this case.
Meanwhile, the latter play out of the Triangle 4 set has Cassell at the
top of the key. Kaman moves over to set screen for Cassell. Then after
passing the ball to Maggette standing on the left wing, Cassell drifts
over to the right wing behind the arc. Next, Brand sets up on the left
block and Maggette makes the entry pass. Now at this point Brand can
dictate how this play can be ran. Brand can look to score from the post
right away, or he can choose to kick the ball back out immediately to
Maggette and try to re-post. As Maggette gets the ball back he can look
to either dump the ball back down to Brand in the post, or even look
for his own shot if Brand is under a fierce double team that won’t let
up. A nice 2-man game can be formed with this play if it’s ran
correctly.
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
Same deal as the previous pairing. These are two different yet similar
Post plays for Brand that I feel should be alternated instead of taking
up multiple slots for them.
As for “PF Decision” play, Cassell has the ball at the top of the arc,
then moves over to the left and passes the ball to Mobley standing on
the left wing. Brand sets up near left block, while Kaman moves from
the circle to the opposite (right) block. Then Mobley passes the ball
to Brand in the post. Now at this point pay close attention to Cassell.
At this moment Cassell will move along the baseline then move toward
the top of the arc. Brand has multiple options to consider with the
ball in the post. He can back down his defender and look to score in
the post right away once he gets the ball from Mobley. Or Brand can
stand still just outside the block
(which is crucial so to not get a 3-second violation call) with the
ball in his hands and allow Cassell to make his move first and get in
position at the top of the arc, then begin to back down his
defender and make his move in the post. There’s a number of ways you
can make a defender pay depending on whether or not the like to double
down on Brand the post. Decisions decisions... now you see where the
title comes from. 
Now in the “PF Post Option” play is similar to “PF Decision” in that
Brand will get the ball in the post and a teammate will be moving
around possibly drawing extra attention from the defense. Here, Cassell
is at left side behind the arc and moves to right wing. Brand goes to
set up near right block, and Cassell delivers the ball to him there.
Now this time it is Maggette who’s moving around as Brand has the ball
near the low block. Maggette is initially standing in right corner,
then he moves along the baseline through a double screen set by Mobley
and Kaman near the basket, then turns up and head toward the left side
of the court behind the arc. Again, Brand has that option to back down
his defender and score right away before Maggette makes his move, or
Brand can wait outside the block with the ball and allow Maggette to
make his move first. More options are available for Brand if he chooses
to wait before making his move, but it may not be a good idea for Brand
to hold onto the ball if the opponent is quick to send a double down in
the post.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what’s described in Pistons playbook, with this one
involving Mobley and Brand instead. Mobley’s a decent shooter off the
dribble while Brand can score down low and also capable of knocking
down the midrange J.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
This is pretty much a self-explanatory play. A good play that run 2-man
game involving Mobley and Brand. Cassell has the ball at the top of the
key. Mobley stands on the left side of the court near the baseline,
then moves toward the left elbow area around a down screen set by
Brand. Cassell passes the ball to Mobley while he makes his first move.
Then Brand comes to the elbow area to set another screen for Mobley as
Mobley moves toward the lane at the FT line. From here Mobley has the
option to take it all the way to the hoop, throw up a runner/floater in
the lane, or shoot the FT line jumper off the dribble if he’s looking
for his shot. Or what else he can also do is pass the ball back to
Brand to take a catch-and-shoot elbow jumper.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set)
This is an Isolation play for Sam I Am, who stands at the top of the key.
PG-C High Screen Roll (Flex 3 set)
This play is misspelled on the game, as “PC-C High Screen Roll.” But
after watching this play, one can clearly see this play involves the
point guard and center. In this play Cassell stands on the left side of
the court behind the arc. Kaman comes over to set a screen for Cassell
in that area. Then this play can be treated like a typical P&R play
as Kaman rolls to the basket. Cassell can shoot off the dribble well
and is also capable of making runners/floaters if he has to look for
his shot.
PF High Iso (Triangle 1 set)
This is an Isolation play for Brand. Cassell is standing on the right
side of the court behind the arc and passes the ball to Brand, who’s
standing at the top of the circle. Brand can then go to work on his man.
Pick & Pop Mid (Flex 3 set)
Same play as what’s explained in the Pistons playbook except this one
involves Maggette and Brand instead. Maggette has decent shot off the
dribble but is better at going hard to the basket. And Brand has a good
midrange J for a big man.
Now for the highly anticipated Magic. Starting lineup:
PG – Jameer Nelson
SG – J.J. Redick
SF – Rashard Lewis
PF – Dwight Howard
C – Adonal Foyle
I had a lot more issues coming up with a starting lineup I like than I
had with choosing the plays. After doing a lot of tinkering with the
players, I ultimately went in this direction. I strongly dislike
starting J.J. Redick at the 2, but who else am I going to go with?
Keith Bogans? Nah, can’t see it. Hedo Turkoglu was actually a
consideration for this position as well, but then there would be major
ballhandling issues. Plus having him starting would hurt bench depth.
Also, going small and putting Howard, Lewis and Turkoglu as my starting
frontline was also a thought. But then I looked at the Magic playbook
and most of the plays feature the PF either in the post or on the
elbow. Having Howard as center instead of power forward would’ve taken
him away from being involved in many of the plays. So here we are.
As for the plays... it wasn’t hard to choose ‘em since as I mentioned
before, this team has 9 plays in their playbook. So I just had to look
to ditch one of them from my list. Here are my choices:
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
This is a cool play that create a shot opportunity for either the SG or
SF. Nelson has the ball at the top of the key while Redick is standing
left corner behind the arc and Lewis is standing at the right corner.
Next, Lewis moves toward the basket through double screen set by Foyle
and Howard, then cuts and head toward the FT line. Nelson passes the
ball to Lewis as Lewis gets to the FT line and faces the basket. From
here Lewis has the option to shoot the FT line jumper on the catch or
make the quick pass over to Redick, who’s spotting up in the corner.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set)
Same play as what’s explained in the Pistons playbook except this
version involves Nelson making the low post feed and Howard setting up
on the block.
PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
This play is designed to get Howard the ball in the block mid-post area
that has an interesting alternative option. Nelson has the ball on the
right side of the court behind the arc then moves left. At this moment
Howard goes to set a screen for Redick standing on the left wing. Next,
Redick moves to the left corner. After setting the screen for Redick,
Howard goes back to the left block to post up and Nelson delivers the
ball to him. Now what’s the alternative option, you ask. Well, the
alternative option is that screen on the left wing set for Redick early
in the play. Instead of waiting for Howard to go into the post after
setting the screen, it’s possible for Nelson to just pass the ball
directly to Redick for the catch-and-shoot jumper if Redick happens to
rub his defender off on the Howard screen successfully. Now there is a
cool two-for-one.
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what I had gone over in the Clippers playbook. Howard is a
beast in the post. And if you decide not to make a move early with
Howard once he gets the ball in the post, keep an eye out for Nelson on
the move and eventually spotting up behind the arc.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this version involves Redick and Howard.
C Dive (Flex 1 set)
This rather complex play is designed to get a bunny for Foyle, but
there are also a number of alternative options for other players
within. First, Nelson has the ball on the right side of the court
behind the arc, then passes the ball to Lewis standing on the right
wing. Nelson moves to the left side of the court after making that
pass. Lewis dribbles toward Redick, who sets a screen for him near the
baseline on the right side of the court. Once Lewis get to him, Redick
pops out and moves to the wing area behind the arc. At this moment
Foyle cuts directly to the basket. So at this point Lewis has the
option of making the pass to a cutting Foyle (intended design of play)
or to Redick for the 3-ball. But that’s not all. Say that Lewis does
pass the rock to Foyle. If for some odd reason Foyle decides not to
shoot the bunny, he can kick the ball right back out to Nelson, who is
still spotting up on the left of the court behind the arc. Then Foyle
would go to set a down screen for Howard, who will move to the left
elbow area. Now Nelson can get Howard the ball at the elbow. This is a
very nice play to run once every step is understood since basically all
five players on the court are involved in executing it.
Razor Elbows (Flex 1 set)
This play is designed to get a shot for Howard or Lewis. Nelson has the
ball on the right side of the court behind the arc, then Foyle moves
over to the top of the key to set a screen for him. Nelson dribbles
around the screen over to the left wing. After setting the screen for
Nelson at the top of the key, Foyle goes over the right elbow area to
set a screen for Lewis who’s initially standing on the right wing.
Next, Lewis fakes going backdoor, then turns back to go around the
Foyle screen at the elbow. At this point Nelson has the option of
passing the ball to Lewis coming off the elbow screen, or pass to
Howard, who is posting up on the left block. This is a nice play to
call on because Howard in the post and Lewis has a lethal midrange J
off the dribble. It would be a good idea to constantly switch up who
gets the ball on this play as to keep the defense guessing.
PG-C High Screen Roll (Flex 3 set)
Same as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one involves Nelson and Foyle.
Now for the Bulls. Starting lineup:
PG – Kirk Hinrich
SG – Ben Gordon
SF – Luol Deng
PF – Tyrus Thomas
C – Ben Wallace
The only real dilemma I had was trying get Andres Nocioni in the
starting lineup. But I couldn’t resist Tyrus Thomas’ offensive
rebounding and shotblocking capabilities, so I kept him in as starting
power forward. In the end I thought Nocioni would be a better fit as
one of the primary scoring options coming off the bench. Here are the
plays:
SG Wing Screen (Baseline 1 set)
This is a basic Screen play for Gordon. Hinrich has the ball on the
right side of the court behind the arc, dribbles to the left, then
passes the ball to Gordon standing on the left wing. Thomas comes over
to set screen for Gordon at left wing. Gordon then dribbles around the
screen toward the baseline. And from this point, Gordon has the option
of either going all the way to the hoop or taking a pull-up midrange
jumper off the dribble.
Draw & Kick (Baseline 2 set)
This is an awesome play which includes a lot of alternative options for
Hinrich, Gordon and Deng. But first I’ll go over the initial design of
the play before revealing the alternative options within. Hinrich has
the ball standing on the left side of the court behind the arc. Big
Ben, who is initially standing on left block, goes over to set screen
for Hinrich at top of the circle. Hinrich then moves around screen
toward left side of the court and passes to Deng who is standing at
left wing near the arc. Deng will dribble to the FT line area of the
lane then pass the ball to Gordon standing on the right side of the
court behind the arc. Now it’s Gordon who will drive to the lane and
pass it to Hinrich standing on the left side of the court behind the
arc.
So in summary we have lots of driving-and-kicking going on here between
the perimeter players. And constant driving-and-kicking should lead to
plenty catch-and-shoot and dump-off opportunities. This is where the
alternative options come into fray. Let’s rewind to the step when
Hinrich first comes off the screen set by Big Ben. At this moment,
Hinrich can actually choose to drive all the way to the basket if there
is an open path. If not, a dump-off pass to Thomas could be available
since he has the passing skill to pull it off.
Now let’s consider the scenario that Hinrich does choose
to pass the ball to Deng at left wing on his drive, and Deng holds the
ball there. Instead of kicking the ball out to Gordon in the play
design, Deng also has the option to drive all the way to the basket, or
take a pull-up jumper off the dribble near the FT line. (There is also
the option for Deng shoot a 3-ball on the catch from the left wing
before putting the ball on the floor, but as Bulls fans and users know…
Deng is not much of a 3-pt shooter. So consider this option at your own
risk, heh.)
Okay, now let’s consider the scenario where Deng does choose to pass
the ball to Gordon standing on the right side of the court behind the
arc. Gordon is not much of a ballhandler, so shooting the 3-ball on the
catch is a really good option for him, unlike for Deng. But if Gordon
chooses to put the ball on the floor, he can opt to drive to the lane
and either try to get all the way to the basket or put up a
floater/runner near the FT line area.
This is a great, great play to run for this team once the user gets down all the concepts and nuances of it. Highly recommended.
Guard Pick & Roll / Guard Pick & Fade (Flex 3 set)
I paired these plays up because of the similarities, which involves the
guards Hinrich and Gordon in P&R action. Both plays start off the
same way. Hinrich has the ball on the left side of the court behind the
arc, while Gordon is standing at left corner. Gordon goes over the left
wing area to set screen for Hinrich. Next, Hinrich dribbles to left
baseline. And from here is the typical P&R basketball between these
players, with the only difference is the actions of Gordon after
setting the screen. He’ll either cut to the basket in the former play
or spot up at left wing in the latter play. I would personally
alternate these plays instead of using up two different slots, but I
can see no wrong in doing that. They’re both really useful plays which
showcase the skills of the guards.
Screen Motion (Motion 1 set)
This is a long-developing play which also includes alternative
catch-and-shoot opportunities. Hinrich has the ball at the top of the
key. Thomas moves from left elbow to set screen for Hinrich near top of
the circle. Hinrich then dribbles to left side of the court behind the
arc. At this moment Deng moves from right side to left side of court
around a baseline screen set near the basket by Gordon. After setting
this screen for Hinrich, Thomas moves to FT line area to set another
screen. Using Thomas’ screen, Gordon begins to move from the basket
area to the top of the circle. Hinrich drifts over to left wing behind
the arc while Gordon is on the move. Next, Gordon receives the pass
from Hinrich as he moves to left side of the court behind the arc, then
dribbles along the arc to the opposite (right) side of the court. As
Gordon moves along the arc, Deng goes around screen set by Big Ben near
left block, then turns toward FT line area and moves to behind the arc.
Deng receives the pass from Gordon at the arc, then relays the ball to
Hinrich standing at left wing. Hinrich then drives along baseline
around screen set by Big Ben, and also has the option of turning back
around.
I know what you’re asking: Where are the alternative catch-and-shoot
opportunites? Well, let’s first rewind to the scenario where Hinrich
has the ball and Gordon makes his move to the top of the circle. At
this point, Gordon could put up a 3-pt shot on the catch on a
well-timed pass from Hinrich along with his defenders sleeping at the
wheel. And another option c-s option arises for Deng where could turn
and hoist a FT line jumper when he receives the ball from Gordon near
the FT line area.
SG Spotup (Motion 2 set)
Same deal as what’s been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one is for Gordon and Hinrich.
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Magic playbook except this one involves Deng and Gordon.
SF-C Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
This is basically a P&R play involving Deng, Big Ben and Hinrich.
First, Hinrich has the ball on the right side of the court behind the
arc, then passes the ball to Deng standing on the right wing behind
arc. Next, Big Ben goes over to set screen for Deng. Then from here
it’s nothing more than typical P&R basketball going on between the
SF & C, with the alternative option of Deng kicking the ball back
out to Hinrich for a 3-ball.
SF Backdoor Cut (Flex 1 set)
Hinrich has the ball on the right side of the court behind arc, while
Gordon stands near right baseline and Deng stands at right wing. Gordon
moves closer to Hinrich, positioning himself at the right elbow. Then
as Gordon moves to the elbow, Deng makes his backdoor cut to the
basket. Hinrich passes the ball to Gordon, then Gordon immediately
passes to a cutting Deng. This is a cool play to call on every now and
then to try and catch the defense off guard.
Now for the Raptors. Starting lineup:
PG – T.J. Ford
SG – Anthony Parker
SF – Jason Kapono
PF – Chris Bosh
C – Andrea Bargnani
It was hard for me to decide against this lineup considering who’s left
on the bench, with the exception of leaving out Jose Calderon. At any
rate, here are the plays:
PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what’s explained in the Magic playbook except this one involves Bosh, Ford and Parker.
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what’s explained in the Clippers playbook with this one involving Howard in the post dictating the offense.
PF Lone Wolf (Baseline 1 set)
This is an Isolation play for Bosh with some window dressing and
alternative playmaking option for Ford included. Ford has the ball on
the right side of the court behind arc, then dribbles along arc to the
opposite (left) side of court. Parker moves from left wing behind arc
to left corner. Bosh moves from left baseline area up the wing to set
screen for Ford near left elbow. Next, Ford dribbles around screen to
FT line area. The design of the play has Ford passing the ball to Bosh
at left elbow and allowing him to go one-on-one. But Ford actually has
alternative options here if he chooses not to make that pass. He can
opt to score for himself and take it all the way to the basket or shoot
the floater/runner. And even though the option is there to shooting off
the dribble with him, I don’t think that’s a wise option for Ford. This
would be a much better option to consider if Jose Calderon is on the
floor running this play instead.
PG-PF Pick & Roll (Flex 2 set)
Nothing but a typical P&R play here. Ford has the ball on the right
side of the court behind arc. Parker moves from right baseline area to
left wing around a Bargnani screen set on the left block. Bosh is
standing at left elbow, then goes over to set a screen for Ford on the
right side of the court near the arc. From here it’s standard P&R
basketball between Ford and Bosh, with Parker and Kapono spotting up on
the wings.
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Magic playbook except this involves Ford, Parker and Kapono.
Screen Drive & Dish (Flex 4 set)
This is a cool play to run for Ford and Kapono which has alternative
options included within. Ford has the ball at the top of the key, then
Bargnani goes over near the arc to set screen for him. Ford then
dribbles around the left side of screen and kicks the ball out to
Kapono spotting up in the left corner. Next, Ford goes around a second
screen set by Bargnani near left block and moves to the left side of
the court behind arc. Kapono passes the ball to Bargnani on the block,
then Bargnani relays the ball to Ford outside.
Now the first and probably best alternative option is when Ford drives
around the first screen from Bargnani. At this moment, Ford can opt to
accelerate and drive all the way to the basket instead of kicking the
ball back out to Kapono. Although Bosh is not really involved in this
play, he is standing near the right baseline and capable of knocking
down the open jumper if his man helps to cut-off the path of Ford.
Another option is when Kapono receives the ball from Ford on the
kickout pass. The best idea in this scenario would likely be for Kapono
to shoot a 3-ball on the catch instead of waiting on Ford to move back
out to the perimeter. This one should be a staple play for Raptors
users along with all the Post and Isolation plays for Bosh.
Guard Weave (Triangle 2 set)
Ford has the ball on the right side of the court behind arc, then Bosh
comes over to set a screen for him at the top of the circle. Meanwhile,
Parker is standing on the right wing behind arc, then cuts to the
basket once Bargnani sets a screen for him at the right wing area. Then
Ford dribbles into the lane around the Bosh screen and has the option
to either pass the ball to a cutting Parker, or look to score for
himself with a layup or runner/floater. Nifty play.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what’s explained in the Pistons playbook except this one involves Parker and Bosh.
Now for the Lakers. Starting lineup:
PG – Derek Fisher
SG – Kobe Bryant
SF – Luke Walton
PF – Lamar Odom
C – Andrew Bynum
This line is pretty much a no-brainer except that I did briefly
consider starting Chris Mihm over Bynum. Didn't happen. Anyway, here
are the plays:
SG Wing Iso (1-4 High set)
This is an Isolation play for Kobe. Fisher has the ball at the top of
the key. Kobe stands at left corner, then move to left wing area after
going around screen set by Odom. Fisher then passes the ball to Kobe at
left wing. And from here Kobe can go to work on his man. He also has
the alternative option of shooting on the catch. Simple play, yet this
play should obviously be a staple for Lakers users since this team has
such a standout one-on-one player like #24.
SG Wing Screen / Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
The former play has been explained in the Bulls playbook and the latter
play has been explained in the Pistons playbook, except the versions of
these two plays are more effective with Kobe involved. I personally
wouldn’t have both of these plays taking up 2 slots since these plays
are very similar to one another, but I can see if there are people who
would want to do that.
SG Post High (Triangle 2 set)
This is basically another Isolation play for Kobe at a different spot
on the floor. Fisher has the ball on the right side of the court behind
arc. Kobe moves from right baseline area to high post area near right
elbow, then receives the pass from Fisher at that spot. From here, this
can be treated like an Isolation play. Kobe has the option to back down
his defender, attempt to drive around him to the basket, or set his
defender up for a pull-up midrange jumper off the dribble.
SG Triangle Post (Triangle 6 set)
Fisher has the ball on the right side of the court behind arc. Walton,
who is standing on right wing behind arc, moves toward Fisher and
receives the pass. After making the pass, Fisher moves to right corner.
Meanwhile, Kobe is standing on the left wing behind arc, then moves to
top of key as Walton receives Fisher’s pass. Bynum goes over to top of
the circle to set screen for Kobe, then Kobe moves to set up near right
block. Walton passes the ball to Fisher standing in the corner, and
then Fisher makes the pass to Kobe.
Now remember the “PF Decision” play where the PF dictates the offense
with the ball in the block? Well it’s the same idea here except it’s
Kobe who has the ball in the post dictating things. Once Kobe has the
ball near the right block, he can look to back down his defender and
score right away, or he can wait and allow Fisher to move to the
opposite (left) corner and Odom moves to the top of the circle around a
Bynum screen. Either way, it’s Kobe who is undoubtedly running the show
here.
Wing Exchange (Triangle 3 set)
Fisher has the ball on the left side of the court behind arc. Kobe
moves from left corner to opposite (right) wing behind arc, going
around a Bynum screen set along the left side of the baseline. Walton
moves from right corner to right wing area, then moves to opposite
(left) wing around Bynum after Kobe makes his move. Now, while Kobe and
Luke make their “wing exchange,” Fisher dribbles around Odom screen set
at top of the circle to go near right elbow area. From this point, this
play can be ran like a typical P&R play for Fisher and Odom.
C Low Block (Triangle 3 set)
Fisher has the ball on the left side of the court behind arc. Next,
Kobe moves from left corner to set screen for Fisher, then heads to
right side of the court behind arc. Fisher dribbles around Kobe’s
screen to get to the left wing. Bynum sets up on the left block, then
receives the entry pass from Fisher in post.
C-SG Flash (Triangle 5 set)
This play is designed to get Bynum a shot close to the basket without
posting up, yet also has alternative options included. First, Fisher
has the ball on the right side of the court behind arc. Bynum moves
from right baseline area to “flash” inside the paint then receives the
pass from Fisher. Kobe moves from left wing behind arc to the area just
outside the left block. Walton moves from left baseline to left elbow.
Now while Bynum has the ball in the paint, Kobe moves around the double
screen set by Walton and Odom to the top of the circle. If he doesn’t
look to score for himself, Bynum can look to pass to Kobe for the
catch-and-shoot midrange jumper, though doing so can risk getting a
3-second violation. And another scenario to consider is if Fisher holds
onto the ball and does not
pass it to Bynum inside the paint. If Fisher decides to keep the ball,
he can wait and allow Kobe to make his move. Then Fisher can look to
make the pass to Kobe himself instead of having Bynum do it.
Triangle Post Option (Triangle 1 set)
This is a simple Isolation play for Odom which gives him an opportunity
to make a play for himself or for a teammate. Fisher has the ball on
the right side of the court behind arc. Odom stands near the FT line
area, then receives pass from Fisher at that spot. As Odom gets the
ball isolate on the FT line, Kobe is spotting up in the left wing
behind arc, Fisher is spotting up on the right wing behind arc, Bynum
is on the left block and Walton is standing near the right block. Now
it’s time for the talented and versatile Odom to make things happen.
Now for the Cavaliers. Starting lineup:
PG – Larry Hughes
SG – Sasha Pavlovic
SF – LeBron James
PF – Drew Gooden
C – Zydrunas Ilgauskas
The only dilemma is who to start at power forward between Gooden,
Andersan Varejao and Donnyell Marshall. It’s a tough call, but I
slightly favor Gooden hitting the boards on both ends of the floor over
Varejao. Plus I decided to have Marshall become one of the main scoring
options coming off the bench as opposed to starting. And for the plays:
SF Screen Iso (Triangle 4 set) / SF Iso Wing (Flex 1 set)
Both of these are Isolation plays for King James which are cool to
alternate with as opposed to using up two slots. In the former play,
Hughes has the ball at the right side of the court behind the arc while
LeBron stands at the right wing behind the arc. LeBron goes over to set
screen for Hughes, then Hughes dribbles over to the right wing behind
the arc. Next, Hughes passes the ball to LeBron standing where Hughes
was at the beginning of the play. And from this point, LeBron can go to
work on his man.
In the latter play, Hughes has the ball at the top of the key while
LeBron stands at the left wing behind the arc. Hughes passes the ball
the LeBron, then moves along arc toward the right wing. LeBron dribbles
along arc to the top of the key. Next comes Big Z, who comes over from
the FT line area to set screen for LeBron at the left side of the court
near the arc. Then LeBron dribbles around Big Z screen into the lane.
Now LeBron has the option of taking a pull-up midrange J, taking it
strong to the basket, or kicking the ball out to a teammate. A good
outlet would be Pavlovic, who is standing at right corner on this play.
And if Marshall was in at the PF spot, he would be a good option as
well since he would be spotting up in his favorite spot in the left
corner.
SF Create (Triangle 6 set)
Basically another Isolation play with a nice little alternative option
within. Hughes stands on the right side of the court behind the arc,
while LeBron stands at the right wing behind arc. Hughes passes the
ball to LeBron. After the pass, Big Z comes over from the right block
to the FT line area to set screen for Hughes. Hughes will then go
around Big Z’s screen and cut to the basket. And at this moment, LeBron
has the option of passing to a cutting Hughes (the alternative option),
or he can hold onto the ball and look for his own shot.
SF Popout (Box set)
This is yet another play for LeBron, but this one is interesting
because this also has an alternative option for Big Z. Hughes has the
ball at the top of the key while LeBron stands at the right baseline
area, Big Z stands at right elbow and Gooden stands at left elbow.
Gooden goes over to set a screen for Hughes near top of the key.
Meanwhile, Big Z goes over to set down screen for LeBron. Hughes
dribbles around Gooden’s screen to left wing behind arc. Next, LeBron
comes off Z’s screen to go to right wing. Hughes passes the ball to
Gooden, who then relays the ball to LeBron. LeBron then has the option
to shoot on the catch, take his man one-on-one, or he can feed the ball
to Z for a postup opportunity since Z is standing on the right block.
SG Pick & Pop (Flex 2 set)
This is a play involving LeBron and Pavlovic. Hughes has the ball on
the right side of the court behind the arc. LeBron stands at the right
wing behind the arc and Pavlovic stands at the right baseline. Hughes
passes the ball to LeBron, then LeBron dribbles toward screen set by
Pavlovic near right baseline area. From here it’s the typical P&P
play. LeBron dribbles around screen, then has the option of driving to
the basket along the baseline, taking a pull-up jumper in the short
corner, or kicking the ball back out to Pavlovic for a jumper just
inside the 3-pt line.
SF Weakside (Motion 1 set)
This play is designed for LeBron of course, but has alternative options
for teammates as well. Hughes has the ball at the top of the key.
Pavlovic stands at left baseline area, LeBron stands right baseline
area, and Z stands at right elbow. Gooden moves from left elbow over to
set screen for Hughes, who dribbles around the screen to the left wing
near the arc. Pavlovic goes over to set screen near the FT line area
for Gooden, who moves down to the left block. Hughes dribbles closer to
baseline, then passes ball to Pavlovic standing at the left side of the
circle. Next, Z moves from right elbow to the right block. Then LeBron
moves form right baseline area to right elbow and receives a pass from
Pavlovic at that spot. Hughes moves to left side of circle to set
screen for Pavlovic, who moves to left wing after making that pass.
Hughes moves to top of the key, then receives pass from LeBron. In this
play LeBron can go to work on his man when he has the ball on the elbow
and not have to make that last pass to Hughes. And don’t forget that Z
is in the post. Gotta give him a chance to throw up that ugly-looking
hook shot he has every once in a while.
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Bulls playbook except this
one involves LeBron, Pavlovic and Hughes. Pavlovic is deadly from the
arc, and LeBron can make a lot of good things happen with the ball at
the FT line area.
PG-SF Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
This is a play mainly involving LeBron and Hughes. Hughes has the ball
on the right side of the court behind the arc. Pavlovic stands at left
wing of the court behind the arc, Gooden stands at left baseline area,
Z stands at right baseline area, and LeBron stands at right wing behind
the arc. Pavlovic fakes a backdoor cut to the basket -- initially
moving right toward the hoop, then goes around Gooden and heads back to
left wing behind arc. LeBron moves along baseline around screen set by
Z, then turns up and move to the top of circle and sets a screen for
Hughes at this spot. Hughes dribbles around LeBron’s screen toward
right elbow area. And from here it’s P&R basketball with Hughes and
LeBron, with Pavlovic spotting up at left wing, Gooden spotting up at
left baseline and Z spotting up at right baseline.
PG-PF Pick & Roll (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Raptors playbook except this
one involves Hughes and Gooden. Varejao can be just as effective as
Gooden whenever running this play.
Now for the Bucks. Starting lineup:
PG – Maurice Williams
SG – Michael Redd
SF – Bobby Simmons
PF – Charlie Villanueva
C – Andrew Bogut
Not hard for me to stay with this lineup as I rather have Desmond Mason coming off the bench. As for the plays:
SG Top Arc (Flex 4 set)
This is a play designed for the super quick-release sharpshooter
Michael Redd. Williams has the ball on the right side of the court
behind arc, while Redd stands at right baseline, Villanueva stands at
right elbow and Bogut stands at left elbow. Villanueva and Bogut
converge near FT line area to set double screen for Redd, then Redd
moves through the double screen to left side of court behind arc.
Williams passes the ball to Redd, then moves to right corner.
Villanueva goes over to set another screen for Redd at left elbow, then
Redd drives around this screen to the basket. Now in this play Redd has
the option to either take a pull-up midrange jumper, take it all the
way to the basket, put up a runner/floater, or kick the ball out to
Simmons spotting up at left corner or to Villanueva standing at the
elbow. Plus there is an early catch-and-shoot opportunity for Redd
after going through the double screen and setting his feet on the left
side of the court behind the arc.
Screen Drive & Dish (Flex 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors playbook except this one involves Williams, Simmons and Bogut.
3PT Reversal (Triangle 6 set)
This play is designed to get a 3-pt shot for Redd but there are
opportunities for other players to get a good shot as well. Williams
has the ball at the right side of the court behind arc. Redd stands at
left wing behind arc while Simmons stands a right wing behind arc,
Villanueva stands at left baseline, and Bogut stands at right block. In
the initial design of this play, Williams passes the ball to Simmons,
then moves to top of the key. Simmon delivers the ball to Bogut in the
post. Bogut kicks the ball back out to Simmons. Meanwhile, Villanueva
goes over to set a screen for Redd at left wing and Redd moves around
this screen to the left corner. Next, the ball is swung around the
horn. Simmons passes the ball to Williams, then to Villanueva, and then
to Redd. Villanueva goes to set screen for Williams at the top of the
key, and Williams heads to left wing behind arc. After setting screen,
Villanueva moves down to left block. Now is the great opportunity for
Redd to take the shot off the catch, but if the shot is not taken...
Redd passes the ball to Williams, then Williams moves along arc toward
center of the court. From here there are a few options available for
teammates that's actually dictated by Williams. He can dump the ball
down low to Villanueva. He can get it to Redd in the corner. Or
Williams can swing the ball back around the horn to the opposite side
of the court to Simmons, who can take the 3-pt shot, or feed Bogut on
the right block. Very nice play to run for this team.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except
this one involves Redd and Villanueva. Both are threats to knock down
midrange jumpers and Redd is capable of slashing and finishing at the
basket as well.
SG Spotup (Motion 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook. But this one involves Redd and Williams.
SG Corner 3 (Triangle 7 set)
This is basically a play to get a 3-pt shot for Redd but there’s a
chance for other players to take a shot as well. Williams has the ball
at the right side of the court behind arc. Then Williams passes the
ball to Villanueva, who’s standing at the FT line. Simmons is standing
at left corner and Redd is standing at left wing behind arc. Simmons
goes over to set screen for Red at left wing, then moves behind arc.
Meanwhile, Redd goes around Simmons’ screen and heads to the left
corner. Villanueva passes the ball to Simmons, then Simmons relays the
ball to Redd in the corner for the 3-ball. As for alternative options,
Simmons could take the shot himself, or even Villanueva at the FT line.
Pick Then Post (Box set)
This is mainly a Post play for Bogut with an alternative option
included. Williams has the ball at the top of the key. Simmons moves
from right baseline to left block, then Villanueva moves from left
elbow to set screen for him at left block. Afterward, Simmons moves to
top of key, while Redd moves from left baseline to left wing behind
arc. Meanwhile, Bogut stands at right elbow and moves to right side of
circle to set screen for Williams. Then Williams dribbles around
screen, going along the arc to right wing. After setting the screen,
Bogut moves to right block, then receives pass from Williams in the
post. The early option is that Williams can put up a shot after coming
off the screen set by Bogut, or he can even make a quick drive to the
basket.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one involves Redd and Villanueva.
Now for the Warriors. Starting lineup:
PG – Baron Davis
SG – Monta Ellis
SF – Stephen Jackson
PF – Al Harrington
C – Andris Biedrins
Wasn’t hard for me to decide on this lineup. There are pretty much the
best five players on the team, although a case can be made for Matt
Barnes at SF. Anyway, on to the plays:
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
Same plays that has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this
is for Davis, who’s a better one-on-one player than Billups.
PG Combo (Motion 4 set)
This is a cool play to run which mainly involves Davis, and gives him
some options to make a play. First, Davis has the ball on the right
side of the court behind the arc. Jackson moves from right elbow to
right corner. Next, Harrington moves from left elbow to set screen for
Davis on the left side of the court near the arc. Davis dribbles around
this screen to the left side of the court. Ellis stands in the left
corner. Jackson cuts to the basket, going around the baseline screen
set by Biedrins. After dribbling around the Harrington screen, Davis
has the option to drive hard to the basket, take a pull-up midrange
jumper, make a pass to a cutting Jackson, or pass to Ellis spotting up
in the corner.
SG Wing Screen (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Bulls playbook except this
one involves Ellis, Harrington and Davis. Ellis is a good slasher and
shooter off the dribble, and Harrington is capable of knocking down
midrange Js.
SF Popout (Box set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except
this one involves Jackson. Jackson is a decent shooter off the catch.
Wing Exchange (Triangle 3 set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Lakers playbook except this
one mainly involves Davis and Harrington, along with possible
catch-and-shoot opportunities for Ellis and Jackson.
Guard Pick & Roll (Flex 3 set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one mainly involves Davis and Ellis executing the P&R.
PG Dive & Curl (Box set)
This is a good play designed for Davis that has a great early
alternative option for him. Davis has the ball at the top of the key,
while Biedrins stands at right elbow, Harrington stands at left elbow,
Ellis stands at left baseline, and Jackson stands at right baseline.
Davis passes the ball to Biedrins, then cuts to the basket. Now the
early option is for Biedrins to pass the ball right back to a cutting
Davis, just like what’s done on a typical Give & Go play. However,
if Biedrins holds onto the ball instead of passing it at that moment,
then Davis goes around double screen set by Harrington and Ellis near
left baseline area, then turns and move to left side of the court
behind arc. After setting the double screen, Ellis moves to left wing
behind arc and Harrington moves to left block. Biedrins then passes the
ball back to Davis. From here Davis can opt to take a possible
catch-and-shoot 3, or treat this as an Isolation play and take his man
on-on-one.
SF Weakside (Motion 1 set)
Same play as what’s been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Jackson, Ellis and Davis.
Now for the Hawks. Starting roster:
PG – Acie Law IV
SG – Joe Johnson
SF – Josh Smith
PF – Al Horford
C – Zaza Pachulia
This lineup is a no-brainer. I much rather have Law running the point
over Speedy Claxton or Tyronn Lue, and have Al Horford starting over
Sheldon Williams. On to the plays:
Double Cross (1-4 High set)
This play is perhaps best utilized to get Horford a shot close to the
hoop, but also include a couple of good options for JJ. Law has the
ball at the top of the key while JJ stands in the left corner and Smith
stands at right corner, Horford stands at left baseline and Zaza stands
at right baseline. JJ moves along baseline up to right wing, then
receives a pass from Law. Zaza sets a screen for Horford near basket,
then Horford moves from left block around screen to flash inside the
right side of the paint. JJ passes the ball to Horford in the paint
then moves to right corner. Law goes over to set a screen for Smith at
left wing. Then Smith moves to top of the key as Horford receives the
ball in the paint. Next, Smith drifts toward right wing as JJ moves to
right corner. Horford kicks ball back out to JJ, then JJ passes it to
Smith. And Law moves to left side of the court behind arc and receives
pass from Smith as Smith moves toward center of court. There can be
catch-and-shoot opportunities for JJ early in the play just before
Horford receives the ball in the paint, or after receiving a kickout
pass from Horford once the ball is in his hands.
SG Backdoor (Baseline 1 set)
Law has the ball on the right side of the court behind arc. Horford
moves from left baseline to left elbow. JJ stands at left wing behind
arc, then makes a backdoor cut to the basket. Law passes to Horford,
who then relays it to a cutting JJ. If no shot, then JJ can kick the
ball back out to Zaza at right baseline. Then Zaza can swing it to
Smith standing at the right wing behind arc.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this involves JJ and Horford.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this
one involves the same two suspects as the play above -- JJ and Horford.
Razor Elbows (Flex 1 set)
Same as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this involves Law, Smith and Horford.
PG Choice (Flex 2 set)
This is a good play for Law which allows him to set up a couple of his
teammates. Law has the ball at top of key. Smith stands at right wing
behind arc, Horford stands at left elbow, Zaza stands at left baseline.
Horford moves to right block while Zaza moves to set screen for JJ near
the right block. Using the screen set by Zaza, JJ moves along the
baseline from right wing to left wing. Horford then moves up to right
elbow. Now Law has a choice to pass to either JJ at left wing or
Horford at right elbow after these guys finish making their moves.
SG Stagger (Motion 5 set)
This is a nice play for JJ to get him a shot in the lane. Law has the
ball at top of key. JJ stands at left wing behind arc, Smith stands at
right wing behind arc, Horford stands at left baseline and Zaza stands
on the right block. Law moves to right side of court behind arc, then
Smith moves to FT line area. Next, Horford and Zaza set staggered
screens for JJ, who moves along baseline to right wing. Law passes ball
to JJ at right wing, then Smith goes over to set screen for him. JJ
comes off screen at right elbow and has the option to take a pull-up
midrange jumper near FT line area or dive to the basket. He could also
put up a runner/floater here.
SF Post High (Box set)
Now I have to include one play designed for Smith. Law has the ball at
top of key. Zaza stands at right elbow and Smith stands at right
baseline. Zaza goes over to set screen for Law near top of key, then
Law dribbles to right wing behind arc. Smith moves to right elbow, then
receives ball from Law in high post area. Horford then moves from left
elbow to right baseline, Zaza moves to left baseline, and JJ moves to
left wing behind arc to clear some space for Smith to go to work on his
man.
Now for the Rockets. Starting lineup:
PG – Mike James
SG – Shane Battier
SF – Tracy McGrady
PF – Chuck Hayes
C – Yao Ming
Now Rockets fans and users, I know what you’re thinking: “What the hell
is this?! Luis Scola should be starting PF. And why is Shane Battier at
the two-guard spot instead of the three? Why isn’t Steve Francis or
Bonzi Wells in for him? This lineup is garbage!” Well, let me explain.
First, I’ll go over the PF spot. I went with Hayes because he’s simply
a better defensive rebounder and better post defender than Scola, which
are the two main factors I look for at this position to compliment a
scoring big man like Yao. And as for the rest of the lineup? Looking
over the Rockets playbook I notice that there are a good number of
plays featuring the SG and SF. However, the plays featuring the SF
involves more teammates into the offense whereas the SG is featured in
plays that are mainly Isolations and P&Rs with the PF, the one
position which is not much of a scoring threat on this team. This
factor dictated into what I thought which would be the position that
would best benefit teammates of T-Mac and his top-level skills.
As for leaving Battier in, well I like his defense and 3-pt shooting
ability. With T-Mac and Yao dominating majority of shots, Battier
really doesn’t need to do much else offensively except spot up on the
perimeter and hustle on both ends of the floor. I have to move Battier
at the SG spot because I want to keep T-Mac as SF, but I will switch
these guys’ spots in the defensive matchups screen if necessary. Plus I
thought a Francis-Wells pairing would provide good firepower off the
bench instead of having one of them starting.
And I went with James over Rafer Alston strictly because James is
better shooter. Need as many perimeter threats on the court as possible
to compliment T-Mac and Yao. But I have to say that Alston’s better
on-ball defense is tempting to have starting though. Anyway, on to the
plays:
C Low Block (Triangle 3 set) / C Quick Post (Triangle 5 set)
Both are good Post plays for Yao which are cool to alternate with
instead of taking up two slots. The former play has James with the ball
at left side of the court behind arc. Battier stands at left corner,
T-Mac stands at right corner, Hayes stands at right elbow and Yao
stands on the left block. Battier goes over to set screen for James,
then James moves to left wing behind arc. Yao sets up on left block and
receives pass from James in the post.
In the latter play, James has the ball at the right wing behind arc.
Battier stands at left wing behind arc, T-Mac stands at left baseline,
Hayes stands at FT line area and Yao stands at right block. James moves
to right sideline, then feeds Yao the ball in the post. Meanwhile,
T-Mac moves to left corner and Hayes moves to left wing to clear some
space for Yao.
C Dive (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Yao, T-Mac, James and Hayes.
Screen Drive & Dish (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors playbook except this one involves James, T-Mac and Yao.
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one involves James, T-Mac and Battier.
SF Popout (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves T-Mac and Yao.
SF Iso Wing (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one involves T-Mac and James.
SF-C Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one involves James, T-Mac and Yao.
SF Backdoor Cut (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one mainly involves T-Mac, James and Battier.
Now for the Nets. Starting lineup:
PG – Jason Kidd
SG – Vince Carter
SF – Richard Jefferson
PF – Nenad Krstic
C – Jamaal Magloire
The only issue with this lineup is which spots to put Krstic and
Magloire. I settled to put Krstic at the power forward spot because he
is a better shooter, and there are more plays that has the power
forward further away from the basket than the center. On to the plays:
SG Stagger (Motion 5 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves VC and Kidd touching the ball.
SG Top Arc (Flex 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bucks playbook except this one involves Kidd, VC and possibly RJ touching the ball.
Draw & Kick (Baseline 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one involves Kidd, VC and RJ handling the ball.
Screen Motion (Motion 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one involves Kidd, VC and RJ touching the ball.
Motion Clear Out (1-4 High set)
This is basically a play to get Magloire a shot near the basket which
has an early Isolation or catch-and-shoot opportunity for RJ within.
Kidd has the ball at the top of key. VC stands at left corner, RJ
stands at right corner, Krstic stands at left elbow and Magloire stands
at right elbow. VC and Krstic both move to left side of baseline near
basket area to set double screen. RJ moves along baseline around double
screen up to left wing behind arc, then receives pass from Kidd at this
point. After making the pass, Kidd moves to top of circle. Meanwhile,
Magloire moves to right baseline and VC moves out to right side of
court behind arc. Here is where RJ is isolated and can quickly take his
man one-on-one or he can shoot a 3-ball on the catch. If these options
are not taken, RJ can wait with the ball for a few seconds until Krstic
moves to left elbow. Once this happens, RJ moves a few steps toward the
basket and passes to Krstic, who then passes to Magloire cutting to the
basket.
SF-C Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one involves Kidd, RJ and Magloire.
SG Wing Iso (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Lakers playbook except this one involves VC.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves VC and Krstic.
Now for the 76ers. Starting lineup:
PG – Andre Miller
SG – Andre Iguodala
SF – Kyle Korver
PF – Reggie Evans
C – Samuel Dalembert
The only real issue I had with this lineup is where to have Andre
Iguodala starting. I figure it would be best to have him as a 2-guard
instead of at the 3 because more plays that feature the SG over the SF.
And like J.J. Redick for the Magic, I absolutely despise starting Kyle
Korver on this 76ers for the very same reasons. However, just like the
situation for Redick, I cannot overlook Korver’s shooting ability. This
team needs a dead-eye shooter starting, no matter how bad the player is
defensively. Willie Green and Rodney Carney cannot shoot as well as
Korver in this game. And I have Reggie Evans starting at the 4 spot
because rookie Jason Smith is needed to come off the bench to sub in
for Dalembert, and Evans is clearly the best rebounder out of the
remaining group of bigs on the Sixers roster. On to the plays:
Double Cross 2 (1-4 High set)
This is a cool play designed to get a midrange shot for Korver but also
gives an opportunity for others to take the shot as well. Miller has
the ball at the top of key. Iguodala stands at left, corner, Korver
stands at right corner, Evans stands at left elbow and Dalembert stands
at right elbow. Next, Evans and Dalembert both move toward baseline to
set staggered screens for the swingmen. First, Iggy moves along
baseline around the staggered screens toward right wing. Next, it’s
Korver who moves along baseline around the staggered screens then turns
up and heads toward left wing. Miller then passes the ball to Korver at
left wing. Evans moves up to left wing to set another screen for
Korver, who comes off that screen at left baseline. Now Korver has the
option to take the pull-up midrange jumper from the short corner or to
try and drive to the basket if catches the defense sleeping. Iggy is
spotting up at right wing behind arc. And the dump-off is available to
Dalembert standing on the right block if Korver draws his man on the
drive to the cup.
Wing Exchange (Triangle 3 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Lakers playbook except this
one mainly involves Iggy and Korver making cuts along the baseline, and
Miller and Evans executing the P&R.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one involves Iggy and Evans.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except
this one involves the same two suspects as in the previous play: Iggy
and Evans.
SG Stagger (Motion 5 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this
one involves Iggy and Miller along with Evans and Dalembert setting
staggered screens.
Motion Clear Out (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Nets playbook except this one mainly involves Miller, Korver, Evans and Dalembert.
SG Backdoor (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one involves Miller, Iggy and Evans.
SG Wing Iso (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Lakers playbook except this
one involves Iggy. Now Iggy is certainly not a great one-on-one player,
but this is perhaps the best of the six leftover plays in this playbook
to have available on the fly. Can’t call on any Post plays with the
likes of Evans or Dalembert getting the ball on the block. And Korver
is too horrible a ballhandler to call an Isolation play for. Heh, at
least Iggy can get by his man and take it strong to the hoop on
occasion.
Now for the Mavericks. Startling lineup:
PG – Devin Harris
SG – Jason Terry
SF – Josh Howard
PF – Dirk Nowitzki
C – Erick Dampier
There was nothing too difficult about coming up with this lineup except
for the center position. Diop is better shotblocker and post defender.
However, it’s the rebounding edge and better ability to finish close
shots Dampier has that makes the difference for me. After all, someone
on this team has to go after all those missed shots coming from the
shooters on this team and cash in with putbacks. On to the plays:
Double Cross 2 (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the 76ers playbook except this one mainly involves Harris, Howard and Dirk.
Screen Stepout (1-4 High set) / PF Poison (Flex 4 set)
Both are creative plays which are designed to give Dirk an opportunity
to get an open look for a pull-up jumper near the FT line area. I think
it’s good to alternate between these plays instead of using two
different slots.
The former play has Harris with the ball at top of key. J.T. stands at
left corner, Howard stands at right corner, Dirk stands at left elbow,
and Dampier stands at right elbow. Dirk and Dampier go over to set
staggered screens along right baseline for Howard. Next, Howard moves
around staggered screens along the right baseline, then turns up and
head to FT line. After setting a screen, Dirk moves to right elbow and
receives pass from Harris, and Dampier moves underneath basket. Howard
sets screen at right elbow, then Dirk dribbles around Howard and comes
off screen at the right side of FT line. From here Dirk takes the
pull-up FT line J.
The latter play has Harris with the ball at top of key. J.T. stands at
right corner, Howard stands at left corner, Dirk stands at right elbow
and Dampier stands at left elbow. Howard and Dampier go over to set
staggered screens along baseline for J.T. Next, J.T. moves along
baseline around staggered screens to left wing behind arc. Dirk then
moves to top of circle to set a second screen. Harris dribbles Dirk’s
screen to get to right elbow, then passes the ball to Dirk. Dirk now
has the option of taking the jumper from the catch or taking his man
off the dribble from the top of circle.
PF Curl & Create (Motion 5 set) / PF High Iso (Triangle 1 set)
Both of these are basically Isolation plays for Dirk that gets him the
ball near the FT line area. These are a couple nice plays to alternate
using for Dirk.
The former play has Harris with the ball at top of key. J.T. stands at
left wing behind arc, Howard stands at right wing behind arc, Dirk
stands at left baseline and Dampier stands near the right block. Harris
passes the ball to Howard. Next, Dirk moves up to left wing to set
screen for J.T. while Dampier moves to left elbow. J.T. moves around
screen along the baseline to opposite (right) corner. Dampier and
Harris both move to set screens at left elbow area for Dirk. Dirk moves
around double screen to the FT line, then receives pass from Howard.
Then Harris moves to left wing behind arc and Dampier moves to left
baseline to clear space for Dirk, who has the option to either shoot
from the catch or to take his man off the dribble.
And the latter play has been explained in the Clippers playbook. Once
Dirk gets the ball, Harris will be standing at the right wing behind
arc. J.T. will be spotting up at left wing, Howard will be spotting up
in the right corner, and Dampier will be standing at left baseline.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one involves J.T. and Dirk.
PF Double Screen (Triangle 8 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves getting the ball to Dirk.
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
I cannot believe how high Dirk has been rated in low post offense for
this game, which is certainly not the case for him in real life. At any
rate, it’s only right to take advantage of this skill. So here are two
Post plays for him that are good to alternate calling instead of using
up two slots. But I can see if someone would like to have both
available to call on the spot. An explanation for both of these plays
are in the Clippers playbook.
Draw & Kick (Baseline 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one mainly involves Harris, J.T. and Howard.
Pick & Pop Mid (Flex 3 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves Harris, Howard and Dirk.
Now for the Bobcats. Starting lineup:
PG – Raymond Felton
SG – Jason Richardson
SF – Gerald Wallace
PF – Emeka Okafor
C – Primoz Brezec
This starting group is a lock considering who’s left on this team’s roster. On to the plays:
Double Cross (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this
one mainly involves Felton, J-Rich and Okafor touching the ball.
PG-PF Pick & Roll (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors playbook except this one involves Felton and Okafor.
PF Pop Clear (Box set)
This is a cool play which has options for four different players to
take a shot at some point. Felton has the ball at the top of key.
J-Rich stands at left baseline, Wallace stands at right baseline,
Okafor stands at left elbow and Brezec stands at right elbow. Wallace
moves back to the right corner. Okafor sets down screen for J-Rich at
left baseline, then J-Rich moves around screen to left side of circle
above FT line. Felton passes ball to J-Rich at that spot, then moves
along arc to opposite (right) wing. Brezec goes over to set screen for
J-Rich at FT line area, then J-Rich dribbles around the screen to get
to right elbow. Meanwhile, Okafor moves to left elbow while Felton
moves along arc to left wing and Brezec cuts to the basket. Okafor
receives pass from J-Rich, then passes ball to Felton at left wing
behind arc. Next, J-Rich moves to top of key, then moves to left wing
to set screen for Felton. Then Felton dribbles around screen and goes
along the arc to get to top of key.
Now the play is basically designed for Okafor to be open to shot the
left elbow jumper on the catch. However, I would think the best option
to take while running this play is getting the ball to Brezec right
when he’s diving to the basket. J-Rich also has an opportunity to take
a pull-up jumper from the FT line on the catch before he passes the
ball to Okafor. And Felton could look to create his own shot late in
the sequence after going around the screen set by J-Rich.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one involves Felton and Okafor.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this
one involves the same suspects as in the previous play: Felton and
Okafor.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set) / PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
Both plays are similar in that they have Okafor setting a screen for
the ballhandler then going into the post. Both are good plays to
alternate with so to not use up two slots. The former play is explained
in the Pistons playbook and the latter is explained in the Magic
playbook.
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
Both plays have Okafor in the post along with player movement as he has
the ball down on the low block. Now Okafor isn’t a great low post
player, but it won’t hurt to get him down there every now and then to
try to keep the defense guessing. Anyway, I think it would be a good
idea to alternate these plays instead of using two slots on them.
Pick Then Post (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bucks playbook except this
one involves Felton and Brezec. Like Okafor, Brezec isn’t a great low
post player. But these guys should get touches down on the block every
once in a while so the defense wouldn’t completely ignore guarding them
on the floor.
Now for the Heat. Starting lineup:
PG – Jason Williams
SG – Dwyane Wade
SF – Antoine Walker
PF – Udonis Haslem
C – Shaquille O’Neal
This lineup is set in stone without question. On to the plays:
Flash Bang (1-4 High set)
Now this is a very cool play to run for this team that has options for
three players who has an opportunity to put the ball in the hoop.
First, Williams has the ball at top of key. D-Wade stands in the left
corner, Walker stands in the right corner, Haslem stands at left elbow
and Shaq stands at right elbow. Next, Shaq moves up near arc to set
screen for Williams, who moves around this screen along arc to the
right wing. Then Williams pauses, turns around and heads back along arc
toward the top of key. After setting the screen, Shaq goes down to
right block. Then D-Wade makes a backdoor cut to basket around the same
time. Now Williams has the choice of passing the ball to Shaq in the
post, or to a cutting Flash. A great situation that put both guys in
prime position to score from where they would catch the ball, and the
user controlling Williams cannot go wrong with considering either
option. Plus there is an option for Williams to either shoot off the
dribble or to drive to the basket after coming off that screen set by
Shaq early in the play. This is a highly recommended play for Heat
users that should be a staple to their halfcourt offense.
C Low Block (Triangle 3 set) / C Quick Post (Triangle 5 set)
Basically the same situation here as it is for Yao Ming of the Rockets.
These are both Post plays for Shaq that are good to alternate calling
on, but I wouldn’t take up two slots for them.
C Dive (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one involves Williams, Walker, Haslem and The Diesel.
Screen Drive & Dish (Flex 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors playbook except this one involves Williams, Walker and The Diesel.
SG Stagger (Motion 5 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves D-Wade getting the ball.
SG Wing Screen (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one mainly involves D-Wade and Haslem.
SG Wing Iso (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Lakers playbook except it’s D-Wade who’s going one-on-one.
SG Backdoor (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves D-Wade and Haslem.
Now for the Celtics. Starting lineup:
PG – Rajon Rondo
SG – Ray Allen
SF – Paul Pierce
PF – Kevin Garnett
C – Kendrick Perkins
The only dilemma I had was who to start at point guard. Although Gabe
Pruitt is a better shooter and scorer, I thought it would be better to
have more of a defensive presence on the perimeter to compliment these
starters who will take majority of shots. So Rondo gets the nod. On to
the plays:
Double Cross (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves Allen, KG and Rondo.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set) / SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Both of these plays involve Ray Ray and KG, and are both good to
alternate calling. The explanation of the former play is in the Pistons
playbook and the latter play is explained in the Clippers playbook.
SF Weakside (Motion 1 set) / SF Iso Wing (Flex 1 set)
Both of these plays involve PP getting the ball in Isolation on the
right side of the court with an alternative option included within the
former play. The explanation of both plays can be found in the
Cavaliers playbook.
SF Screen Iso (Triangle 4 set) / SF Create (Triangle 6 set)
These two plays also has PP getting the ball in Isolation. Again, the
explanation of both plays can be found in the Cavaliers playbook.
SG Corner 3 (Triangle 7 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bucks playbook except this one mainly involves Ray Ray, PP and KG.
SF 3PT Wing (Motion 4 set)
This is a good play designed to get a 3-pt shot for PP, but also has an
alternative option included within for Ray Ray. Rondo has the ball on
the right side of the court behind arc. Ray Ray stands at left corner,
PP stands at right corner, KG stands at left elbow and Perkins stands
at right baseline. Rondo dribbles to left side of court behind arc.
Next, Ray Ray moves up to left wing then receives pass from Rondo.
After making pass, Rondo moves to top of key. PP moves to right wing
behind arc, and Perkins moves to right block. Meanwhile, KG sets screen
for Ray Ray at left elbow, who dribbles around screen to get to left
elbow. Then Ray Ray passes ball to Rondo, then Rondo relays it to PP at
right wing behind arc for the trey.
Now the alternative option is when Ray Ray has the ball and dribbles
around KG’s screen at the elbow. Once he comes off this screen, he’ll
have the option to shoot a pull-up midrange jumper off the dribble.
SG Pick & Pop (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Ray Ray and PP.
Baseline Stack (Motion 5 set)
This is a nice play that gets plenty of shot opportunities for PP, Ray
Ray, and Rondo along with KG early in the sequence. Rondo has the ball
at top of key. Ray Ray stands at left wing behind arc, PP stands at
right wing behind arc, KG stands at left baseline and Perkins stands
near right block. KG and Perkins both move over to right side of
baseline to set screens for PP, who moves around staggered screens to
opposite (left) wing. Rondo dribbles to right side of court, then
passes ball to Ray Ray, who moves to top of key. Ray Ray passes the
ball to PP at left wing while Rondo moves to right corner. After
setting screen, KG moves over to left block. PP dribbles to left side
of court behind arc, while Ray Ray moves along arc to right side of
court. Then PP passes the ball to Ray Ray standing at right wing behind
arc. Perkins goes over to set screen for PP at left side of court near
arc, then PP moves to left corner. Ray Ray passes the ball to Rondo at
right corner, then moves to top of key. Perkins moves to right block,
while Rondo dribbles up to left wing and passes the ball back to Ray
Ray at top of key. Rondo goes over to set screen for Ray Ray at top of
key. Then Ray Ray dribbles along the arc around screen to right side of
the court. And PP moves along the baseline to opposite (right) corner
around staggered screens set by KG and Perkins.
One early alternative option for this play is that on his first touch
of the ball PP can look to dump the ball into the post to KG, who
stands on the left block. There are also catch-and-shoot opportunity
early for PP before considering to pass into the post. Ray Ray and
Rondo will also have a few catch-and-shoot chances coming for them up
as the play progresses. And near the end of the play sequence, Ray Ray
has an option to take a pull-up midrange jumper or take it to the
basket after coming off Rondo’s screen. A great play to run once the
user has gotten down all the intricacies of what’s going on.
Now for the Knicks. Starting roster:
PG – Stephon Marbury
SG – Jamal Crawford
SF – Quentin Richardson
PF – Zach Randolph
C – Eddy Curry
This lineup is the way to go for sure. On to the plays:
Double Cross (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves Randolph, Crawford and Marbury.
C Dive (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Curry, Randolph, Q, and Marbury.
SF-C Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one involves Q, Curry and Marbury.
Guard Wave (Triangle 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors playbook except this one mainly involves Marbury, Crawford and Randolph.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one mainly involves Crawford and Randolph.
PG Clearout ( 1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
Both are Isolation plays for Marbury that are good to alternate
calling. An explanation for these plays are in the Pistons playbook.
SG Top Arc (Flex 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bucks playbook except this one involves Crawford, Marbury, Randolph and Curry.
SG Wing Iso (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Lakers playbook except this
one mainly involves Crawford, who has good one-on-one skills.
Now for the Spurs. Starting lineup:
PG – Tony Parker
SG – Manu Ginobili
SF – Bruce Bowen
PF – Tim Duncan
C – Francisco Elson
Like the case for Rasheed Wallace of the Pistons, I figure it’s a must
to have Tim Duncan at the 4 instead of the 5 to best utilize his skills
considering the available plays in the Spurs playbook. I also
considered starting Fabricio Oberto at the 5, but I favor the advantage
Elson has at defensive rebounding. On to the plays:
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Post plays for Duncan that are similar to one
another. An explanation of both plays are in the Clippers playbook.
PF Low Post (Flex 4 & Triangle 4 sets)
Both of these are also Post plays for Duncan. An explanation of these
plays are in the Pistons (former play) and Clippers (latter play)
playbooks.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one mainly involves Ginobili and Duncan.
PG Dive & Curl (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except
this one mainly involves Parker. There is an also an option to dump the
ball into Duncan, who’s setting up on the left block.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Isolation plays for Parker, and an explanation of them are in the Warriors playbook.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except
this one involves Ginobili and Duncan. This is a play that best
complements “Wing Pick & Roll.”
PF Pop Clear (Box set)
Same as what has been explained in the Bobcats playbook except this one mainly involves Duncan, Parker, Ginobili and Elson.
Razor Elbows (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Parker, Duncan and Bowen.
Now for the Nuggets. Starting lineup:
PG – Chucky Atkins
SG – Allen Iverson
SF – Carmelo Anthony
PF – Nene
C – Marcus Camby
Although a strong case can be made for starting AI at the 1 (and maybe
starting J.R. Smith at the 2), I prefer to have AI at the 2 simply
because there are more plays in the Nuggets playbook which features the
SG as opposed to the PG. So I decided to pair AI with Atkins at the
guard positions and bring J.R. Smith off the bench. Of course the
downside to this decision is the extremely small backcourt which will
no doubt be a defensive liability. But oh well. A strong frontline led
by a very good inside defender and shotblocker in Camby should makeup
for some of the issues of a suspect perimeter defense. On to the plays:
SF Weakside (Motion 1 set) / SF Screen Iso (Triangle 4 set)
Both of these are Isolation plays for Melo with the former play having
an alternative option included within. Check the Cavaliers playbook for
an explanation of both of these plays.
SG Stagger (Motion 5 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves AI.
SG Wing Iso (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Lakers playbook except this one mainly involves AI.
Baseline Stack (Motion 5 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Celtics playbook except this one mainly involves Atkins, AI, Melo and Nene.
SF Create (Triangle 6 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Melo and Camby.
PG-SF Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Atkins and Melo.
SF Pitch (Baseline 2 set)
This is a nice play to run that features the guards. Atkins has the
ball at top of key. AI stands at right wing, Melo stands at left wing
behind arc, Nene stands at right baseline and Camby stands at left
baseline. Melo goes over to set screen for Atkins at top of circle
while Nene sets screen for AI at right wing. AI cuts to the basket,
then turns around past Nene’s screen and heads to right corner. Atkins
dribbles around Melo’s screen to get to right elbow. And from here,
Atkins has the option to take pull-up midrange jumper, drive to basket
(or throw up a runner/floater in the lane), or to pass to AI at the
right wing for a catch-and-shoot 3.
SF Iso Wing (Flex 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Melo.
Now for the Wizards. Starting lineup:
PG – Gilbert Arenas
SG – DeShawn Stevenson
SF – Caron Butler
PF – Antawn Jamison
C – Etan Thomas
I thought long and hard about starting Nick Young at the 2 since he is
a better scorer and a higher rated player overall. However, I thought
Stevenson would be a better fit as a starter because I believe stronger
defender is needed to complement this particular group of starters. And
I favor Thomas over Brendan Haywood because Thomas is a better
rebounder and post defender. On to the plays:
Double Cross 2 (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the 76ers playbook except this one mainly involved Butler, Jamison and Arenas.
PG Combo (Motion 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except this one mainly involves Arenas, Butler and Jamison.
Zero In (Triangle 6 set)
This is a nice play which includes options for Arenas. First off,
Arenas has the ball at right side of the court behind arc. Stevenson
stands at left wing behind arc, Butler stands at right wing near arc,
Jamison stands at left baseline, and Thomas stands near right block.
Butler moves along the arc near Arenas, then receives pass. Arenas
moves to left block. Stevenson moves along the arc over to left side of
the court and receives pass from Butler, then dribbles to top of key.
After making the pass, Butler moves down to right block to set screen
for Arenas along with Thomas, who sets screen near the basket. Then
Arenas moves around staggered screens on the right side of the paint
and heads to the right wing behind arc. Now Arenas receives pass from
Stevenson and has the option to either shoot the 3 on the catch or take
his man off the dribble.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
These are both Isolation plays for Arenas, and the Pistons playbook has an explanation of them.
SF Screen Iso (Triangle 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one involves Butler.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set) / PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
Both plays involve Jamison setting a screen for a teammate then going
into the post. An explanation of both plays can be found inside the
Magic playbook.
PG Corner 3 (Triangle 5 set)
This is a cool play designed to get Arenas a 3-pt shot from the corner
on the catch, but has a alternative options included within. Arenas has
the ball right side of court behind arc. Stevenson stands at left wing
near arc, Butler stands at left baseline, Jamison stands at FT line,
and Thomas stands at right baseline. Arenas passes ball to Jamison,
then moves along arc to left side, all the way to the left corner.
Stevenson moves to FT line area to set screen for Jamison. Next,
Jamison dribbles around this screen to get to left elbow, passes the
ball to Arenas at the left corner, then moves to the left block.
Stevenson moves to right elbow after setting screen for Jamison. Arenas
dribbles around Butler up to near center of court. Meanwhile, Butler
stands at left wing near arc while Jamison remains at left block.
Now the main purpose of the play get Arenas a 3-ball from the corner on
the pass from Jamison. However, there are other options, as I had
mentioned before. First, Jamison can take a pull-up midrange jumper
from the elbow after coming off the screen from Stevenson if the pass
is not made to Arenas. Or Jamison can get the ball back from Arenas
while setting up on the left block, which occurs near the end of the
play sequence. Butler is also spotting up on the left wing near arc.
PG Drive & Curl (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warrios playbook except
this one involves Arenas, with an alternative option included for
Jamison.
Now for the Jazz. Starting lineup:
PG – Deron Williams
SG – Gordon Giricek
SF – Andrei Kirilenko
PF – Carlos Boozer
C – Mehmet Okur
There were two issues I came across in deciding this starting lineup.
The number 1 issue is that I figure I need Boozer at the 4 spot instead
of the 5 in order to best take advantage of his low post skills, so
Okur slides to center spot. And the second issue is that although Matt
Harpring is perhaps better suited to start at the 2, I decided to go
with Giricek simply because he’s a better shooter than Harpring. And in
this situation, a shooter is needed to compliment Kirilenko since
Kirilenko isn’t much of an offensive threat. So it's Harpring who will
come off the bench. On to the plays:
Double Cross (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves Boozer, Giricek and Williams.
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves Boozer.
PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves Boozer.
PG-PF Pick & Roll (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors playbook except this one mainly involves Williams and Boozer.
SG-PF Two Man (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves Giricek and Boozer.
PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Boozer and Williams.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Boozer and Williams.
PF Pop Clear (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bobcats playbook except this one involves Boozer, Williams, Giricek and Okur.
Now for the Suns. Starting lineup:
PG – Steve Nash
SG – Raja Bell
SF – Grant Hill
PF – Shawn Marion
C – Amare Stoudemire
I know Leandro Barbosa is a higher rated player overall than Raja Bell.
However, I decided to start Raja Bell because he’s a very good
defender, which is sorely need to balance out this offense-heavy group
of starters. This was actually an easy roster decision to make for me.
Anyway, on to the plays:
Screen Drive & Dish (Flex 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bucks playbook except this one mainly involves Nash, Stoudemire and Hill.
PG Combo (Motion 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except this one mainly involves Nash and Hill.
3PT Reversal (Triangle 6 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bucks playbook, except this
one mainly involves every starter who touches the ball after Stoudemire
posts up and decides not to go up with the shot.
PG Dive & Curl (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except this one mainly involves Nash and Stoudemire.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Isolation plays for Nash that would be good to
alternate calling on. Check the Pistons playbook for an explanation of
these plays.
Double Cross 2 (1-4 High set)
Same as what has been explained in the 76ers playbook except this one mainly involves Hill, Marion and Nash.
Motion Clear Out (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Nets playbook except this one mainly involves Hill, Marion and Stoudemire.
PG Corner 3 (Triangle 5 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Wizards playbook except this one mainly involves Nash, Marion and Bell.
Now for the Grizzlies. Starting lineup:
PG – Damon Stoudamire
SG – Rudy Gay
SF – Mike Miller
PF – Pau Gasol
C – Darko Milicic
For the same reasons as I done the same for Rasheed Wallace (Pistons),
Carlos Boozer (Jazz) and Tim Duncan (Spurs), I have decided to move Pau
Gasol to the 4 spot primarily because of the Grizzlies playbook. So
Darko is the 5 man. And I have decided to start Damon Stoudamire over
Juan Carlos Navarro and Mike Conley, Jr. because he seems to be more of
a steady player offensively, as the others tend to struggle at times
from the perimeter. On to the plays:
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Post plays to run for Gasol. Check the Clippers playbook for an explanation of how they are executed.
PF Low Post (1-4 High and Triangle 4 sets)
More Post plays to run for Gasol. This is a similar situation as it is
for Brand (Clippers) and Duncan (Spurs) in that t would be good to
alternate calling between these plays and the two Post plays above to
keep the defense guessing. Check the Clippers playbook for an
explanation of how they are executed.
Wing Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same pay as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one mainly involves Gay and Gasol.
Double Cross 2 (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the 76ers playbook except this one mainly involves Miller, Gasol and Stoudamire.
PF Pop Clear (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bobcats playbook except this one mainly involves Gasol, Gay, Stoudamire and Milicic.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one mainly involves Stoudamire and Gasol.
Pick & Pop Mid (Flex 3 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves Stoudamire, Miller and Gasol.
PG-C High Screen Roll (Flex 3 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Clippers playbook except this one mainly involves Stoudamire and Milicic.
Now for the Hornets. Starting lineup:
PG – Chris Paul
SG – Morris Peterson
SF – Peja Stojakovic
PF – David West
C – Tyson Chandler
This lineup is most certainly a no-brainer. On to the plays:
Double Cross 2 (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the 76ers playbook except this one mainly involves Stojakovic, West and Paul.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Isolation plays for Paul. Check the Pistons playbook for an explanation of how these plays are executed.
PG Dive & Curl (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except this one mainly involves Paul and Chandler.
Hornet’s Nest (Motion 3 set)
Now this is a very cool play for West to allow him to be a playmaker,
plus there is an alternative option for Paul to make a play that’s
included within. Paul has the ball at top of key. Peterson stands at
left wing near arc, Stojakovic stands at right wing near arc, West
stands at left baseline and Chandler stands on the right block. West
goes over to set screen for Paul at the top of the circle, while
Peterson moves to left corner and Chandler moves to right elbow. Paul
dribbles around West’s screen to left elbow area, then passes the ball
to West and moves to left wing near arc. Chandler moves to left block
and Stojakovic cuts to basket. And from here, West has the option of
passing the ball to either a cutting Stojakovic or to Chandler.
And the alternative option within this play is that after coming off
the screen set by West, Paul has the option of either taking a pull-up
jumper at the left elbow or driving hard to the basket.
PG Choice (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves Paul, Peterson and West.
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bulls playbook except this one mainly involves Paul, Stojakovic and Peterson.
PG Combo (Motion 4 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except
this one mainly involves Paul, Stojakovic and Peterson spotting up in
the corner.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set) / PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
Both of these are Post plays for West. Now West isn’t a dominant low
post player, but he can actually do some damage down there. Plus it’s a
good idea to call on these plays every once in a while so his defender
can’t ignore him and help out on the perimeter players all game long.
Check the Magic playbook for an explanation of these plays.
Now for the Kings. Starting lineup:
PG – Mike Bibby
SG – Kevin Martin
SF – Ron Artest
PF – Kenny Thomas
C – Brad Miller
The tough decision was who to start at the 4 between Thomas and Shareef
Abdur-Rahim. Although Abdur-Rahim is slight better than Thomas in a
number of categories on the offensive end, I have decided to start
Thomas in the end because he’s a much better rebounder on both ends of
the floor. And considering the overall lack of strong rebounding bigs
on this squad, the one player on this team who’s actually good in this
aspect is sorely needed in the starting lineup. Abdur-Rahim can be
relied on to bring some scoring off the bench. On to the plays:
SG Pick & Pop (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Martin and Artest.
PG Dive & Curl (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Warriors playbook except this one mainly involves Bibby and Miller.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set) / PG Wing Iso (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Isolation plays for Bibby that are good to alternate calling on. These are explained in the Pistons playbook.
Guard Pick & Roll (Flex 3 set) / Guard Pick & Fade (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are setting up a two-man game with the guards -- Bibby
and Martin. These are good plays to alternate calling on since both of
players involved are capable of scoring from midrange and driving to
the cup. These plays are explained in the Bulls playbook.
Baseline Curl (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Bibby, Artest and Martin.
Double Cross (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Hawks playbook except this one mainly involves Martin, Thomas, Artest and Bibby.
PG-SF Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Cavaliers playbook except this one mainly involves Bibby, Artest, Martin and Miller.
SF-C Pick & Roll (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Rockets playbook except this one mainly involves Bibby, Artest and Miller.
Now for the Pacers. Starting lineup:
PG – Jamaal Tinsley
SG – Marquis Daniels
SF – Danny Granger
PF – Jermaine O’Neal
C – Troy Murphy
Sorry, but I absolutely cannot see myself starting Mike Dunleavy, Jr.
at the 2. Just can’t. For me, he doesn’t do anything well on either end
of the floor to warrant the start. Daniels is the lesser of two evils,
if that makes any sense. He’s not much of a scorer, but he can defend
really well at the SG position. So Daniels gets the nod. I also
considered starting Jeff Foster at the 5 since he’s such a great
rebounder on both ends of the floor, but I’ve decided to start Troy
Murphy because I believe more of an offensive presence is needed at
this position since not much scoring output will come from the 2 guard
spot for this team. On to the plays:
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
Both of these are Post plays for O’Neal that are similar to one
another. An explanation of both plays are in the Clippers playbook.
PF Low Post (Flex 4 & Triangle 4 sets)
Both of these are also Post plays for O’Neal. An explanation of these
plays are in the Pistons (former play) and Clippers (latter play)
playbooks.
PG-PF Pick & Roll (Flex 2 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Raptors except this one mainly involves Tinsley and O’Neal.
Motion Clear Out (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Nets playbook except this one mainly involves Granger, O’Neal and Murphy.
PG Clearout (1-4 High set)
This is an Isolation play for Tinsley. Check the Pistons playbook for explanation of this one.
PF Pick & Post (1-4 High set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Pistons playbook except this one mainly involves Tinsley and O’Neal.
PF Screen Post (Baseline 1 set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Magic playbook except this one mainly involves Tinsley, O’Neal and Daniels.
PF Pop Clear (Box set)
Same play as what has been explained in the Bobcats playbook except
this one mainly involves O’Neal, Murphy, Daniels and Tinsley.
Now for the Timberwolves. Starting lineup:
PG – Randy Foye
SG – Ricky Davis
SF – Corey Brewer
PF – Al Jefferson
C – Theo Ratliff
There weren’t many issues to consider with this group of starters. I
chose to start The Rattler because he’s a much post defender and
shotblocker than the more offensive-minded Mark Blount, which is a good
trade-off to compliment this group of scorers. On to the plays:
PF Decision (Baseline 1 set) / PF Post Option (Flex 3 set)
You all know the drill by now about this. Same deal as before, but this
time it’s for Jefferson. Check the explanation of these Post plays in
the Clippers playbook.
PF Low Post (Flex 4 set)
Another Post play for Jefferson. The Pistons playbook has an explanation of how this play is executed.
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