Up and Comers: Group F

Young Players with Stocks on the Rise – Group F

Riccardo Montolivo (Italy, Fiorentina) Age 25
The Italian boss was keen to involve this all-action performer in his squad, with Montolivo's midfield defensive duties so often complimented by his fearsome long range shooting ability. Hard working and strong in the tackle, he has all the qualities required to claim a permanent spot in the Italian side in years to come.
Domenico Criscito (Italy, Genoa) Age 23
This speedy fullback can be relied upon to find space down the flanks to put pinpoint accurate crosses into the box for his waiting teammates. After failing into break into the ranks at Juventus, Criscito settled for a starting spot on Genoa’s team. Perhaps a fine showing in South Africa will show future employers his full potential.
Giorgio Chiellini (Italy, Juventus) Age 25
Chiellini is a frightening sight for any attacker with his sturdy frame and fiery eyes. He is a no- nonsense defender who takes pleasure in delivering bone crushing tackles. Another valuable facet on his game is his ability to mow down opponents on the way to score much needed goals from set pieces.
Victor Caceres (Paraguay, Libertad) Age 25
This player from humble beginnings has won complete faith of his coach. Caceres is dependable defensive midfielder who unleashes youthful abandon in his spot on tackles and heads up play. He has the energy to last the full 90 minutes and the tactical mind to effective the entire time.
Lucas Barrios (Paraguay, Borussia Dortmund) Age 25
This 6ft 2in striker is prolific in front of goal when the ball is at his feet. Barrios consistently proves how deadly he is in the box by making spectacular moments out of half chances. He can only hope that pre-tournament jitters disappear by the time he is called upon to act.
Edgar Benitez (Paraguay, CF Pachuca) Age 22
This little Paraguayan sparkplug has just recently burst onto the international scene. Benitez is a spirited and truly skilled attacker. One of his chief assets is his speed off the mark and another is his versatility - he is equally at home in wide areas as in a central striker role. Look for him as Paraguay’s super-sub.
Winston Reid (New Zealand, FC Midtjylland) Age 21
Winston Reid is a fresh face in the All Whites lineup. He is a combative defender with an advantage in the air due to his 6ft 3in height. He will run until his shoes come off and will give his team 110% of his effort to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Valdmir Weiss (Slovakia, Bolton Wanderers) Age 20
Playing with the stigma of being the coach’s son, Weiss feels the need to prove his selection to his countrymen. He combines flair, skill on the ball and a fearless approach to running at defenders to make him an exciting creative force. Moulded straight from an old fashioned winger, the twinkle-toed youngster is a handful for any defense with his mazy dribbling and accurate crossing.
Martin Skrtel (Slovakia, Liverpool) Age 25
This hulking centre-back is the one-man fortress at the heart of the Slovak backline, quick, aggressive and strong in the air. His Premier League and Champions League experience will be vital for a country with no experience of major international finals. Marking Torres in training for Liverpool will certainly help ready him for the challenge of marking world-class centre forwards.
Marek Hamsik (Slovakia, Napoli) Age 22
Marek Hamsik has emerged in the past two seasons as one of the brightest prospects in Serie A after a number of scintillating performances for Napoli. Now Hamsik has the opportunity to prove his ability on a global stage and the world will be watching to see if this precocious talent can truly live up to his billing as one of the best young attacking midfielders in the world.

Up and Comers: Group E

Young Players with Stocks on the Rise – Group E

Simon Kjaer (Denmark, Palermo) Age 21
Kjaer is one of world football’s hottest young prospects. This steely defender currently plies his trade for Palermo in Italy, and he will use this World Cup to add sparkle to his resume. Europe’s elite clubs have taken notice of Kjaer’s versatility and quick footballing brain. A good showing may earn him the FIFA Young Player award this tournament.
Nicklas Bendtner (Denmark, Arsenal) Age 22
Bendtner has no lack of self confidence, borderline conceit. The striker is a key performer for his country and is highly rated by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, although he suffers from the odd lack of focus that has not made him the most popular of players. From the look of him, he is tall and strong. If he is able to hold opponents off the ball and keep an eye on the movement of his teammates, then he may give Denmark a fighting chance.
Christian Eriksen (Denmark, Ajax Amsterdam) Age 18
Christian Eriksen is officially the youngest player at the World Cup in South Africa. He will not let his youth bar him for living out his dream. This young star can impress all with his calm composure on the ball. He will contribute to the team effort by scoring the occasional goal and setting up plenty of others. Good work done in the tournament may equate a move to an established cub such as Arsenal.
Eljero Elia (Netherlands, Hamburg SV) Age 23
I predicted that Elia will emerge as one of the star names at this World Cup. With the fitness concerns over Dutch star winger Arjen Robben, Elia may be thrust into an even more significant role. Feast your eyes upon his mazy runs with his speedy bursts on the left flank a threat to the best of defenders.
Gregory Van Der Wiel (Netherlands, Ajax Amsterdam) Age 22
This defender made midfielder is flush with promise. Van Der Wiel is unafraid to take on the opposition with his blinding pace and unbending will. He will be a great addition to the long list of Dutch stars in the offensive lineup. This World Cup will bring him an extra level of confidence and perhaps a nice move this summer.
Ibrahim Afellay (Netherlands, PSV Eindhoven) Age 24
Afellay provides the Dutch manager with an excellent sub choice late in games. He is a classy imaginative midfielder who can revive any flatlined attacking movement. He will settle in nicely in the pocket behind the strikers ready to pounce on any loose ball floating around the top of the box.
Joel Matip (Cameroon, Schakle 04) Age 18
This teenage defensive midfielder, stopper or full back has proved a revelation this season in the German domestic league, combining gritty tackling, good speed, athleticism and rare composure. There is a sense that Cameroon can be the team to carry all of Africa’s dreams, and Matip is fully committed to that mission.
Maxim (Eric) Choupo-Moting (Cameroon, Hamburg SV) Age 21
Choupo-Moting is an immensely talent German born forward. He made some news after he chose to commit to his father’s homeland of Cameroon after starring for multiple German junior level international teams. He will partner with world superstar Samuel Eto’o in attack for the Indomitable Lions. He will be under pressure to score goals early or else he will find his way to the bench.
Alex Song (Cameroon, Arsenal) Age 22
He will never get the credit he deserves, but Song fills a crucial position for both club and country. When he is in the lineup, you can find Song poised to take on all takers just in front of his team’s backline. If you can imagine the advantage of a sci-fi space ship having a force field, then you can imagine the importance of a skilled defensive midfielder to a team’s overall performance. His area of responsibility to breakdown each offensive onslaught and then spark his own squad’s counter.
Vincent Aboubakar (Cameroon, Cotonsport Garoua) Age 18
This highly-rated teenage striker is the only home-based player on the Cameroon roster. His play resembles his fellow countryman’s, Samuel Eto’o. He certainly seems to be an up-and- coming entertainer, a brilliant finisher with either foot, a mazy dribbler and boasting a great
array of tricks and step-overs. If he can earn some playing time, it won’t take long for word of Aboubakar's talent to reach the ears of European scouts.
Keisuke Honda (Japan, CSKA Moscow) Age 24
Honda is a distinctly European Japanese player, which is both his gift and his greatest criticism. His time at CSKA Moscow has encouraged him to take an individualistic approach to goal scoring much to the chagrin of his national team peers who concentrate on defense first. Honda will use the World Cup finals as his platform to become a major international star.
Takayuki Morimoto (Japan, Catania) Age 22
An intelligent and mobile striker who has just completed his fourth season in Italian football with the Sicilians of Catania, Morimoto is so highly-rated that AC Milan starlet Pato labeled him recently as the most gifted young player in Serie A. "Everything is possible for him in the future," is the view of the brilliant Brazilian.

NBA Draft Links

- Chad Ford's draft buzz
- The Mystery of Elliot Williams, by Chad Ford
- Mark Stein may have some insight on why New Jersey would select Wesley Johnson at #3
- An updated recap on the possible Chris Paul trades
- Lakers GM, Kobe Bryant, eyeing Raja Bell
- Details on the Warriors Corey Maggette trade
- Details from the CA on a possible Grizzlies trade
- Ron Tillery's take on the Grizzlies' Paul George workout

Up and Comers: Group D

Young Players with Stocks on the Rise – Group D

Kwadwo Asamoah (Ghana, Udinese) Age 21

It is said that Ghana lack attacking options, so players like Asamoah will have to create magic from the midfield. He is a dynamic figure with the power to orchestrate play from box to box. He is reported to be on the shopping list of AC Milan; however they may have competition for his signature if his mesmerizing dribbling and accurate left foot can push Ghana to glory.

Kevin-Prince Boateng (Ghana, Portsmouth) Age 23

This Berlin-born, massively tattooed midfielder has often been labeled as a bad boy of soccer. Most recently his name was splashed on the pages of newspapers for being behind the tackle that took the German captain, Michael Ballack, out of the World Cup. Despite his appearance and reputation, Boateng constantly forges classy football with his raw power, pace, and skill.

Asamoah Gyan (Ghana, Stade Rennes) Age 24

Gyan is the focal point of the Black Stars’ offense. He has a nose for goals and will be deadly waiting on the edge of the box to pounce. If Gyan can stay healthy throughout the tournament, he will earn his deserved respect as an African hitman.

Zoran Tosic (Serbia, Manchester United) Age 23

Tosic’s profile has risen like a tidal wave since Manchester United purchased him in 2009. This gifted attacking midfielder is much love by his national team coach and is expected to leave an impression on the World Cup audience. Most likely Tosic will be deployed as second half substitute when a game needs new life breathed into it.

Neven Subotic (Serbia, Borussia Dortmund) Age 21

Neven Subotic may very well be called the one that got away if he makes a big impact for Serbia this year. His family was in Florida as political refugees during the Balkans Wars of the 1990s, yet when it came to decide which country to represent on the senior level Subotic opted for his family’s homeland. He is a confident centre-back with a sharp eye for the game and demanding presence of the field. His career has nowhere to go but up.

Carl Valeri (Australia, Sassuolo) Age 25

Central midfielder Valeri currently plays for a second division Italian teams and relishes a return to the top flight. This young starlet started in Italy with Inter but failed to mess the talent laden squad. He has found a new path in life with the Aussie national team. In a team of veterans he is the only youngster worthy enough to start for his country.

**I have one note before I start with my picks from the German national team. It was very hard not to name the entire squad. Germany has packed its roster with a boatload of young talents where the average age for this 2010 World Cup squad is 25 years old. The German giants will go far in this tournament on the backs of these young bucks.

Thomas Muller (Germany, Bayern Munich) Age 20

The past year has been a fairytale story for Thomas Muller. In his first year as a senior level player Muller has been an all-star sensation. His style of play echoes the form of Germany’s legends. He is known for being one step ahead of the opponent, first to the ball, a precision crosser, and ice cold finisher. Plan on seeing him have a breakthrough performance for Germany that will overshadow the success he had at club level.

Mesut Ozil (Germany, Werder Bremen) age 21

Ozil brings originality and improvisation to the German midfield. Anticipate seeing him involved in each and every attacking movement, and even bagging a few goals along the way. Europe’s top coaches will be grading Ozil’s performance at the same time they push for extra transfer money to secure his talents.

Sami Khedira (Germany, VfB Stuttgart) Age 23

This dynamic and industrious central midfielder skippered Germany to glory at last year's European Under-21 Championships, and now he is charged with the monumental task to fill the shoes of injured national team captain, Michael Ballack. Khedira has matured in recent years, yet his youth shows in his vitality and his willingness to run himself to death for every ball.

Marko Marin (Germany, Werder Bremen) Age 21

Marko Marin is Germany’s little magician. This mighty playmaker has an aptitude to pull ingenious moments out of a hat without notice. He will be a valuable asset coming off the bench, but without a doubt Marin is a secret weapon for the national team waiting to stretch his legs in South Africa. Prepare to be mesmerized.

NBA Draft - Memphis Links

NBA draft week is kinda like Chanukah here at From the Sidelines, so here's a Memphis-related packet of links to stuff your draft knowledge.

- A great article by the Commercial Appeal's Ronald Tillery detailing the Grizzlies' draft process (or lack thereof)
- Griz draft plans still a mystery (I'm shocked)
- Chris Vernon's summary of thoughts on players that have worked out for the Grizzlies in Memphis
- A second edition of Verno thoughts on workouts
- Detailed info from the Memphis Flyer on Memphis' first and second workouts
- Elliot Williams' Draft Express profile
- Follow Elliot Williams on Twitter

Up and Comers: Group C

Young Players with Stocks on the Rise – Group C

Wayne Rooney (England, Manchester United) Age 24

Very little needs to be said about this player. Rooney is universally known as one of the best soccer players in the world. He is the complete package that any manager would die to have in their team arsenal. Tough-as-nails and skillful on the ball, Rooney can place an inch perfect pass or ripe a blazing shot from any position on the field. England hopes that his unquenchable passion will lead their team to victory.

Glen Johnson (England, Liverpool) Age 25

Johnson is a pacey defender who uses his speed to aid him in cover and on counterattacks. England boss, Fabio Capello, anticipates Johnson to burn a path up and down the right flank to add numbers to the attack. He will take every opportunity to supply crosses from the wings and will look to cut inside for the occasional shot.

Joe Hart (England, Manchester City) Age 23

He is one of the biggest talents in England as a goalkeeper, for sure. He has everything. He is physically strong, mentally strong, he has good reflexes, and he is very good on the line. Unfortunately, Hart is considered too young and inexperienced to be thrown into the full action at the World Cup, but definitely one to watch for the future. Who knows, if England continues to have heartbreaks in goal, we may see this young talent takeover.

Jozy Altidore (United States, Villarreal) Age 20

Altidore was the leading scorer for the US during World Cup qualifying. Built like a miniature tank, Jozy can muscle his way through the thickest defenses. His exceptional ball skills allow him to receive the ball at his feet even under pressure. He has not had much success in Europe to date, but an all-star performance in South Africa could help to show his quality.

Jose Torres (United States, Pachuca) Age 22

Torres is a new name on the US national team roster. A Texan by birth but a Mexican by heritage, Torres only recently put his alliance in the United States camp. We are lucky to have him. He is a creative midfielder that mirrors the play of many of the world’s great playmakers, such as Xavi and Pirlo. Torres has built up a fine reputation for retaining the ball and showing good touch. He will be fighting for a chance to play behind the coach’s son, Michael Bradley.

Bostjan Cesar (Slovenia, Grenoble) Age 23

Slovenia’s national coach, Matjaz Kek, has said that Cesar is a man you can build a backline around. He is tall, strong, and has an ironclad defensive mentality. The World Cup may the second chance to revitalize his young career. Early in his playing days, Cesar suffered a long-term head injury that sidelined him for more than a year. He will be playing to show the world footballing community that he is living out his potential.

Samir Handanovic (Slovenia, Udinese) Age 25

Handanovic is a very agile goalkeeper with the ability to muster up some spectacular saves. His time in the Italian top league has given him a wealth of experience against topnotch strikers. Not much is expected from Slovenia in this tournament, but if there are too be any surprising results from this team, Handanovic is surely going to be the key figure behind their success.

Tim Matavz (Slovenia, FC Groningen) Age 21

This young goal scoring phenomenon muscled his way onto the Slovenian team on reputation alone. Matavz did not get called up to the national team until two weeks before the tournament started. At 6ft 3in he will be a contender in aerial battles and on set pieces. Look for him to be used primarily as a super sub to bring a spark to any match.

Karim Matmour (Algeria, Borussia Monchengladbach) Age 24

This thrusting right winger may not be an automatic pick for his German club, but his flair and never-say-die attitude constitute a major part of the offensive plans of the Algerian national team. Matmour was a hero for Algeria in the African Cup of Nations, so tried and tested in big time games.

Up and Comers: Group B

Young Players with Stocks on the Rise – Group B

Lee Chung-Yong (South Korea, Bolton Wanderers) Age 21

Lee is a rising star. He has been widely regarded as one of the hottest talents coming from South Korea. In 2009, Lee made the move to England with Bolton and quickly emerged as the team’s most valuable player. Korea Republic will benefit from Lee’s consistent play and creative presence.

Angel Di Maria (Argentina, Benfica) Age 22

Silky smooth winger Angel has the quality to be a worldwide superstar within the next few years. His level of skill has increased enormously during the time he has been playing in Europe. Di Maria has been heavily linked with a move to Premier League giants Chelsea and a good showing in South Africa this summer is bound to see his value increase to a point where Benfica will be tempted to cash in.

Lionel Messi (Argentina, Barcelona) Age 23

Messi’s name has been on the lips of soccer fans across the world for years now, but it is almost had to believe that this young man is just 23 years old. There is no doubt that Messi is a superstar yet he feels there is still more to do. This World Cup watch as Maradona’s successor puts it all on the line to win the only trophy he does not possess.

Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina, Real Madrid) Age 22

South Africa is about respect for Higuain. This young striker has been playing second fiddle to the big name players at his club and country for numerous years. He may not sell the number of jerseys that Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Kaka do, but Higuain’s performance stats outshine the glitzy superstars. He’s a winner and he can always be counted on to conjure up some goal scoring magic.

Obafemi Martins (Nigeria, VfL Wolfsburg) Age 25

Martins has mainly been used as an impact player for both club and country to bring on and terrorize tired defenses with his pace late in a game. His hot-and-cold nature has hampered his starting chances, but expect to see this super eagle soar past the opposition and wreak havoc with his primal shooting power.

Up and Comers: Group A

Young Players Who’s Stock Is on the Rise

One of the greatest pleasures of observing the FIFA World Cup is having an opportunity to see young players perform on the world stage. Many have already earned positions on elite club teams, but for just as many this is the one chance they have to impress. I will try to bring focus to the hidden jewels that may be fighting for the spotlight this month.

The men to watch in Group A:

Giovani Dos Santos (Mexico, Tottenham Hotspur) Age 21

Dos Santos has established himself as the most important figure in the Mexican attack. He possesses sprinter speed and shows confidence on the ball. In addition he is unafraid to let a shot ripe from mid-range positions with great accuracy. Dos Santos is very dangerous playing on the right side and cutting into the middle to unleash a strong left-footed shot. Tottenham Hotspur loaned this young man to the Turkish club Galatasaray for the last half of the domestic season, but if he continues to make a good showing in the World Cup, the Spurs will surely want him back in the first team.

Javier Hernandez (Mexico, Manchester United) Age 22

Nicknamed Chicharito, ‘Little Green Pea’, Hernandez has had a dream year. Hernandez ended the season as top scorer in the Mexican domestic league and earned a transfer to English powerhouse Manchester United.

Siphiwe Tshabalala (South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs) Age 25

This Soweto-born attacking figure plans on making a name for himself during this tournament. Tshabalala is a short compact winger who has the speed to burn defenses and he been known to produce spectacular goals. He has already snagged the opening goal of the World Cup with a stunning strike from a fast South African counterattack. Europe will keep him in their sights if he can keep producing the thrills.

Fernando Muslera (Uruguay, Lazio) Age 23

Muslera is known to Lazio followers as Castorino or the 'Little Beaver' and has been a bright spot at goalkeeper in the Italian league. He did not cement his position as the number one keeper for the national team until late in the qualifying stages. This skinny giant has the speed and agility to be a great shot stopper.

Luis Suárez (Uruguay, Ajax Amsterdam) Age 23

Suarez is a lightning fast goal poacher scored more goals than any other player across the world last season with 49 goals for Ajax. Granted he is based in the Dutch league, but if he can handle the pressure of the world stage and bag a few goals, people will take notice.

Hugo Lloris (France, Olympique Lyonnais) Age 23

This 6ft 2in goalkeeper is admired for his cool head and mature decision-making, Lloris has had success taking Lyon deep into the UEFA Champions League tournament. He has been linked to many of the top European clubs and may earn a quality transfer if he can keep France alive in the World Cup.

!!BREAKING NEWS!!

Sources have told me that later this afternoon, Manchester United and Real Madrid will be joining the SEC for the 2012 season.

"This is about creating the premiere futbol/football conference in the world." Commissioner Mike Slive was reported as saying.

FTS World Cup Manual

While Alex and I could spend the day boasting about how we told exactly what was going to happen on Thursday in college football and the NBA Finals... We're yielding the floor to our favorite European and soccer expert, AC! But just know that when we open our mouths, the world listens!


AC says...


Mashup
Last Minute Details That Will Help You Look Like You Know Something About World Cup Soccer

If you are planning on being one of the 750 million people to watch the 2010 South African World Cup, you are going to need to know a few important things.

First, let me set the stage for the readers. Here in America, we will get our TV coverage from the ESPN and ABC family. It is fabulous that ESPN has aggressively ramped up its involvement with world soccer over the past few years. This year’s World Cup will by far be the greatest undertaking the station has ever attempted to perform outside of the U.S. In comparison to the 2006 World Cup where ESPN commentators viewed one third of the games from sound stages in the states, the 2010 production will be fully covered by over 300 staff members in South Africa. ESPN is placing a large bet that Americans will jump on the world’s game bandwagon and bring the station tremendous success for its hard work. However, be aware that production goal is not to educate novice soccer watchers, but to whet the appetite of the well-informed fan. Jed Drake, executive producer for ESPN's World Cup coverage, has clearly stated that "We really have targeted our presentation now for a knowledgeable soccer audience." To prove this point, ESPN has dumped the lineup of all American commentators and has hired on several seasoned British announcers to bring depth of knowledge and flair to the TV coverage. An estimated total of 230 hours of live programming will fill the cable boxes of viewers during the one month period from June 11 to July 11. Just over half of that time will be devoted to actual matches, while the other half will help fans with analysis, recaps, and highlights.

For your viewing pleasure I have linked here ESPN’s official 2010 FIFA World Cup TV Schedule. And, do not worry if you missed a few of the important games due to work, school, or scheduling conflicts. Many of the matches will be re-aired on ESPN Classic each day.

World Cup Format
If you’re familiar with the 2006 World Cup format, you won’t have any homework to do before the 2010 World Cup starts in South Africa, as it’s unchanged. If you have never seen a World Cup, please allow me to be your docent on a tour of World Cup structure.

We’ll see 32 teams participate from six different FIFA confederations (CAF, CONMEBOL, UEFA, AFC, OFC, CONCACAF); the tournament will run from June 11 to July 11. A few months before the tournament a draw was done in Cape Town, the 32 teams were separated into eight different groups.

The group stage (June 11 to 25) is a round robin in which each team in a group plays each other once. Wins give you three points, draws are one point, and you receive zero points for a loss. After each team plays three games, the top two from each group advances to the next round. In the event of a tie, goal difference will be the deciding factor. Meaning, all the goals scored against a team will be subtracted from how many goals the team scored. The team with the highest number wins the tiebreaker.

The round of 16 (June 27 to 29) follows the group stage and kicks off the one-game elimination rounds, followed by the quarterfinals (July 2 to 3), semifinals (July 6 to 7) and final on July 11. Drawn matches during elimination rounds go to extra time and then shootouts if necessary.

Injury Problems
It is a sad fact of life that a few players have their World Cup dreams smashed by injury leading up to the start of the tournament. This year is no different. Even before a ball has been kicked at the World Cup in South Africa, several of the game's biggest stars have been struck down by injury.

DAVID BECKHAM (England, Achilles)
Mr. Golden Balls was all set to become the first England player to appear at four World Cups having forced himself back into Fabio Capello's squad. Unfortunately, disaster struck during AC Milan's 1-0 win over Chievo as Beckham broke down with a ruptured Achilles tendon.

RIO FERDINAND (England, knee)
During England’s first training session in South Africa, Ferdinand suffered a knee injury during a challenge with Emile Heskey and will take no part in the World Cup. For me, this is all the more reason why Heskey should be ousted from the team and deported to some faraway place like the frozen tundra of Siberia.

MICHAEL BALLACK (Germany, ankle)
German captain Ballack hobbled off at Wembley following a challenge by Portsmouth's Kevin-Prince Boateng during the FA Cup final, and his worst fears were confirmed when scans revealed ligament damage, denying the 33-year-old Chelsea midfielder the opportunity of a third World Cup appearance. To add insult to injury, Chelsea released Ballack this week.

MICHAEL ESSIEN (Ghana, knee)
Essien had not played for Chelsea since December because of a knee problem, and so looked doubtful to be involved in the Black Stars' World Cup campaign. The Bison’s absence is a major blow to the Black Star’s hopes of progressing from Group D which also includes Germany, Australia and Serbia.

NANI (Portugal, collar bone)
This winger, who came to life for Manchester United during the domestic season, damaged his collar bone after attempting an acrobatic shot in training and thusly was ruled out of the tournament. Nani had the fire to partner alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. His absence will weaken Portugal's attacking options.

JOHN OBI MIKEL (Nigeria, knee)
The third of Chelsea's World Cup crocks also suffered a knee problem, and underwent minor surgery in May. Although he joined up with the squad in South Africa, the 23-year-old decided he would not be fit enough to take part, and pulled out of the tournament.

DIDIER DROGBA (Ivory Coast, broken arm)
Ivory Coast boss Sven-Goran Eriksson will be praying Drogba can fend off Chelsea's injury jinx after suffering a broken bone in his arm during a friendly against Japan - leaving the striker in a race against time to be fit to play in South Africa, when Ivory Coast will face Brazil, Portugal and North Korea in the 'Group of Death'. Drogba was touted to be a leading contender for the Golden Boot this year.

ARJEN ROBBEN (Holland, hamstring)
Winger Robben, the star of Bayern Munich's run to the Champions League final, has vowed to do everything possible to play at the World Cup, despite suffering a torn hamstring in the 6-1 friendly win over Hungary. The player himself admits the injury would normally take up to six weeks to heal, so his participation still looks in doubt. Throughout his career Robben has been accused of being fragile and this latest injury does not improve that image.

ANDREA PIRLO (Italy, calf)
The AC Milan star suffered a calf injury last week and will definitely not be available for the team's World Cup 2010 opener on Monday against Paraguay. Pirlo is aptly nicknamed The Architect and is a crucial cog in the Italian winning machine.

USA vs. England – Psychological Warfare
On June 12, USA and England will face-off to replay a match dubbed the “Miracle on Grass”. At the 1950 World Cup in Brazil, a band of American amateurs pulled off a stunning upset to bring down Goliaths of world football, England. It took just one goal to make history and team USA hope to have a repeat performance this year.

The first shot over the bow was actually produced by the English tabloids. Shortly after the World Cup draw all of the media outlets grasped on to the idea that England was a sure shot to advance out of the group stage. Simply put, EASY. England, Algeria, Slovenia, and Yanks. The glory is already in their eyes and I am hoping our Yanks can knock England off their high horse.
America’s counter offensive has been quite clever. By accepting the role of the underdog, team USA has put all the pressure on the Three Lions to win. Anything less than a convincing win for England will be no good. If the USA achieves a shock win or plausible draw, then the English people will unleash hellish fury on their players.

The secret weapon for our Yanks is the jerseys. Team USA will be sporting throwback jerseys that resemble the shirts worn on that fateful day in 1950. The English team wore blue for that match and have only worn that color once since, and lost again. Therefore, blue has unofficially been banned as a primary color for England’s jerseys. Cross your fingers that our clothing choice will tip the scale in the psychological battle.

Last Chance Links
Official World Cup Theme Song, Waka Waka by Shakira
Check out these World Cup soccer babes. I give you Eng vs. USA.
Fill out a World Cup bracket

Conference Dominos For Dummies!

College football is changing! And don’t let anyone tell you this isn’t all about football, because it is. Teams could move later based on their hoops prowess, but not in the beginning. Oh yeah, it’s also about money- a lot of money. Starting off, the Big East has its own TV network, and the thing with TV networks is that you get paid via a subscription, that’s why commercials always tell you to call your local cable provider. Networks like ESPN are carried throughout the country because ESPN has a broad audience since they report on everything. Conversely, it’s doubtful that any large group of people outside of a Big 10 school area really cares about the Big 10, therefore, they don’t want a subscription to the hotness that is the B10 Network. Jim Delaney’s solution: let’s expand our conference into new areas and get those subscriptions.

Larry Scott, commissioner of the Pac 10, was definitely (I’m hoping) sitting around sippin’ a frozen margarita in SoCal when he heard about the Big 10’s plans. He quickly came to the conclusion that not only would the Pac 10 need a tv network of their own, but they would expand their conference to locations hilariously far from the Pacific coast, thus creating millions of dollars for everyone involved.

Probably Larry Scott

That’s the general outline and the only things we’re sure of right now is that Nebraska is going to one of the teams going to the Big 10 and all hell is breaking lose. As to where everyone else is going, let’s take a page out of BP’s book and dig deep!

The Players:

Jim Delaney and the Big 10: Not only is it a conference with a misleading name (there are 11 teams), but Delaney and Co. have been the aggressor this off season. Hell bent on at least adding one more team for a championship game, they probably want to get to 16 teams and create a “super conference”. Targets: Notre Dame, the Big 12, the Big East.

Larry Scott and the Pac 10: While they actually have the amount of teams included in their name, the Pac 10 is just as gung-ho about expansion as the Big 10. Their aspirations also include a 16 team conference, but they don’t really have a target list – it’s more of a treasure map where X marks the entire footprint of the Big 12 South.

Dan Beebe and the Big 12: No, this isn’t the guy that stripped Leon Lett at the goal line in Super Bowl XXVII, that’s DON Beebe. Wait, I’m the only one who thinks of that? Moving on… If you can’t tell from above, the Big 12 is basically f*cked.

Mike Slive and the SEC: So far, these guys have been content to sit back and watch everything unfold. Unlike the other conferences, they don’t have as much consideration for TV markets due to their gigantic deals with CBS and ESPN. However, some reports did surface today that they have been in talk with Texas A&M.

The Big East: I have no idea who the current commissioner is, and I don’t really care. I do know their former commissioner is on the University of Memphis’ payroll for some reason and has a ridiculously hard last name when it comes to spelling. (Trangassheshehs?) Sidenote: did you know the Big East only has eight football teams? How in the hell are they a BCS conference? The Big East won’t be adding anyone until all the dust settles, expect them to lose a couple of teams at the very least though.

The ACC: Nearly the same as above, they won’t be adding anyone immediately unless they have to. I assume most of their days are spent praying that the SEC won’t come, bend them over, and take a couple of their successful programs.

Scenarios:

The Big 10 / Pac 10 Will Have an Orgasm

First Movers:

- Big 10 adds: Notre Dame(I), Nebraska(B12N), Missouri(B12N), Rutgers(BE), Pittsburgh(BE).

- Pac 10 adds: Texas(B12S), Texas A&M(B12S), Oklahoma(B12S), Oklahoma State(B12S), Texas Tech(B12S), Colorado (B12N).

Hello revenue streams! The Big 10 grabs Notre Dame and gets to slide into the New York market with Rutgers. The Pac 10 extends their footprint into Texas and Oklahoma AND they don’t have to take Texas’ ugly step sister, Baylor.

Second movers:

- Mountain West adds: Kansas(B12N), Baylor(B12S), Iowa State(B12N), Kansas State(B12N), Boise State(WAC)

Kansas loses here in the basketball side of things, but they win on the football side. The new MWC has a strong lineup with these teams being added to already successful programs like TCU, BYU, Utah, and Air Force. This new 16 team league is definitely better than a pre watered down Big East or ACC.

But our basketball team is so good!

Third movers:

- SEC adds: Miami(ACCC), Florida State(ACCA), Virginia Tech(ACCC), Virginia(ACCC).

First of all, why have your two divisions named the “Coastal” and “Atlantic” divisions? It’s not cute, it’s just annoying. This scenario is basically the SEC acknowledging that they need to do something, and why not screw over the ACC while doing it. (Take that Georgia Tech!) I bet some of you are wondering why Virginia is on this list. It’s because of the pesky state stuff that Texas had to deal with above; if you want Virginia Tech, you have to take Virginia. Here’s the bright side, now Vanderbilt has someone to play with!

The Fallout:

If you can’t tell from the name, this seems a bit farfetched. Notre Dame would have some incentive to finally join a conference, but they wouldn’t exactly have their backs against the wall. Additionally, there’s no way that the Pac 10 gets all the other Texas schools and leave Baylor out. In a more likely variation, just switch Colorado and Baylor and it’s plausible. Still unsure if the SEC would do anything, especially since Virginia would be the only new market.

Big 10 Misses ND, Big 12 Still F*cked, SEC Expands to 14

First movers:

Big 10 adds: Nebraska(B12N), Missouri(B12N), Rutgers(BE), Pittsburgh(BE), and ??

Pac 10 adds: Texas(B12S), Baylor(B12S), Oklahoma(B12S), Oklahoma State(B12S), Texas Tech(B12S), Colorado (B12N).

SEC adds: Texas A&M(B12S), Miami(ACCC).

If you can’t tell how convoluted this is, just look at the fact that I have no idea who the Big 10 would add as their 16^th team. West Virginia? Come on, those guys don’t have televisions. Cincinatti or Louisville? They still have that C-USA stink on them, and their academics aren’t up to Big 10 standards. Iowa State? I know nothing about them other than the fact that Iowa is current a Big 10 member. (Can you write me a reference bro?) Kansas? Package deal with Kansas State. Seriously, I have no idea. I wouldn’t be surprised if they tried to pry someone like Boston College away from the ACC. Again in this scenario, the Pac 10 gets most of Texas and Colorado. The biggest coup here is the SEC gaining A&M. This opens the Texas market, adds a team with a long history, and allows the SEC to only have to expand eastward by one team. (Other candidates besides Miami would be FSU, Clemson, GA Tech.)

Welcome to the SEC!

Second movers:

ACC adds: Syracuse(BE) AND/OR UConn (BE)

Great Midwest adds: Kansas(B12N), Kansas State(B12N), West Virginia(BE), Cincinnati(BE), Louisvile(BE), USF(BE), Memphis(CUSA), Syracuse(BE) OR UConn(BE), UAB(CUSA – if needed).

The ACC gets a 12^th team back so they can still host a championship game and a new conference is formed, with an old name. This is a bit of a homer statement, but isn’t Memphis a little too big for CUSA at this point? CUSA just awarded the conference basketball tournament to El Paso. El Paso? Clearly, Memphis needs to find greener pastures. This eight team conference has some great football and some new and old rivalries on the basketball court.

Generic Scenario #3

I could take any of the above, flip some teams around a few times and I could create scenarios all day. (I MAKE IT RAIN.) However, I think both of you reading this get the general idea(s): The Big 10 is getting bigger, the Pac 10 is getting Texas, the Big 12 is f*cked, the Big East and ACC are scared, and the SEC is surveying the landscape at this point.

Throw some of your scenarios in the comments.

The NBA: Where Zig-Zag Happens!

If I had a bookie, I’d be a couple of hundred dollars the richer after last night. All thanks to the Zig-Zag Theory of NBA Playoff Basketball. What’s the Zig-Zag theory, you say? Well, it’s only the simplest and most popular system of betting on postseason basketball. Not surprisingly, the NBA Finals have followed to the Zig-Zag to the “t”. Obviously, experienced gamblers already know all the ins-and-outs of zigging and zagging . This is a watered down version for the young gamblers of tomorrow. If the three of you reading this like it, I’ll come back and expand on the theory later For now, sit back and enjoy a From the Sidelines gambling spectacular… Alright, it’s really only a few hundred words, but still…

Try to stay with me now, the Zig-Zag has one rule: bet for the team that lost the previous game. While that’s simple enough, there are a few caveats.

For example, this only applies to the spread… not outright wins. Also, this only applies to the playoffs. Don’t go betting on November basketball. Just go ahead and check yourself into a gambling addiction clinic – it’ll save you several thousand dollars. Finally, if a team loses against the spread and loses the game outright, the power of the Zig-Zag is often enhanced. Take a look at this NBA Finals if you don’t believe me.

Game 1 @ LA, LA -6.5 (Lakers favored by six and a half points): The Lakers come out of the home gate blazing and stomp the Celtics, easily covering the six point spread.

Game 2 @ LA, LA -6 (Lakers favored by six): A proud veteran Celtics club evens the series and beats the spread, despite being a six point underdog. Why? Because they lost against the spread (and lost the game) the night before. In this game, people betting with the Zig-Zag theory (money on the Celtics) actually lowered the line a half point.

Game 3 @Boston, Boston -2.5 (Celtics favored by 2.5): The perfect Zig-Zag game. Celts lose game one and don’t cover the spread. They come back in game two to not only cover the spread, but win outright. Now, LA lost against the spread and lost outright in the previous game. What happens? LA covers the spread and wins outright.

My advice? Bet the spread according to the Zig-Zag. If a team loses both against the spread and outright AND is an underdog in the next game (see LA, Game 3), bet both the spread and the money line... You could hit it big, but if the dog wins against the spread, but loses the game… you still hedged your bets.

Celebrity Mailbag!

It’s always been a dream of mine to receive emails from famous athletes and celebrities. Now, that dream is finally coming true… if only through my seldom read blog. As always these are fake emails from real celebrities…

Q: Hi Debo! Khloe Kardashian, here. Long time reader, first time writer! Would it be totally out of line if I dumped Lamar Odom for Rondo? I know Rondo looks like an alien, but he has HUUGE hands! That is a trait that is VERY important to me! Plus, I’ve always liked the east coast. And I mean, hello!? Huge hands… HUGE!
Hearts... KK

A: Wow, Khloe! Great for you to join us! This sounds like a soul-searching question that only you can truly answer. But I can understand why you would ask yourself that question after Lamar’s two stink bombs in Games 1 and 2. Here are few tidbits to help you out…

1. Rondo has Finals MVP potential. In fact, he could be a great dark horse at +250. Imagine Rondo averages a triple-double similar to Game 2 in four Celtic victories. Maybe he goes crazy for one game or even on quarter and notches plus-15 assists and rebounds totals for one game. He averages could look something like: 18.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, 11.5 assists. When you crunch the numbers that seems very possible and almost likely.

2. While Lamar won’t likely merit MVP consideration, you have believe the worst is behind him. As a long time reader, you know that I contended that Kobe would get the support he needed from Lamar and Pau Gasol in at least two games. So far, Gasol has shown up… now it’s Lamar’s turn.

3. Rondo had more rebounds than anybody on the court in Game 2. And while Rondo has (as you said) HUUUGE hands, Phil Jackson will be calling both Lamar and Gasol euro-trash if that trend keeps up. Also, Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher should be putting a body on little Rajon to protect Lamar and Gasol’s collective rebounding manhood.

4. You are part of Lamar’s wolf pack now. That’s a commitment that Lamar takes very seriously (as evidenced by this shirt). You should think long and hard for before you turn your back on the pack.

Q: Debo, it’s Pau. Tell Alex I said, “Hola!” I had 24 points heading into the 4th quarter of Game 2 on 7 of 9 shooting. With David Stern’s help, I put the entire Boston frontline in foul trouble. Why didn’t I get a single shot in the final 12 minutes? Not even ONE!

A: Pau, I’ll deliver the message to Alex. He’s one of your biggest fans! But to answer your question, Jalen Rose wants you to know two things:

1. You play second banana to Kobe Bryant, not the other way around.
2. HE’S THE BEST CLOSER IN THE GAME! HE’S UNSTOPPABLE IN THE FOURTH QUARTER! M-V-P!! M-V-P!! M-V-P!!

I’m just kidding, Pau. Actually, I don’t blame Kobe entirely for this one. I’m pointing the finger at someone who never takes the blame. That’s right, Phil Jackson… I’m looking at you, big guy. After Kobe gets a fifth foul… no timeout. After Rondo hits one of two FTs, the Lakers have a legit shot of making a last second run in a two possession game… no timeout. After Artest and Fisher struggle to throw up last second prayers as the ball never even whiffs the paint… No timeout. Hell, Doc Rivers is a pseudo-hero ‘cause he old-man jogged to the free throw line to call a possession-saving time out. When the offense breaks down… when your team loses it’s focus by not pounding paint… when you’re within five inside of a minute… TAKE A TIMEOUT!!!

It could be that… or it could be that you smell like an Italian subway car in the middle of July, and nobody wants to pass you the ball. Either way, take a timeout and then take a shower.

Q: From the desk of Tom Thibodeau: Mr. Debo, As you may or may not be aware, I’ll soon be moving to Chicago to mentor young Mr. Rose and Mr. Noah. While it would be illegal for me to comment on free agents at this time, I have reason to believe that a certain figure of royalty maybe joining me. Do I have what it takes to push Chi-town back into the championship spotlight?

A: Breaking News! An FTS exclusive: LBJ to the Bulls!!! Just kidding, that's not really Tom Thibodeau. This is all pretend. Back to the column...

Well, Mr. Thibodeau. You came to the right place because I have a unique opinion for you! And while I’ve learned to spell Thibodeau, we’ll be referring to you as Mr. T for the purposes of this article. I have an untold respect for you and your defensive game plans. But I can’t get behind the Chicago-Mr. T marriage.

This stinks of Bill Belichick in Cleveland. And I mean stinks. Defensive mastermind. Spectacular film study. Never been a head coach. Never talked to the media. Just like Belichick did, you’ll have to work out the kinks. Belichick failed miserably in Cleveland because he didn’t know how to handle million dollar athletes, he didn’t know how to handle the daily media barrage, and he didn’t know how to handle people in general. This coaching hire has all the same ingredients. In fact, I pity the fool...

I mean look at your question! It reads like a letter from my lawyer. If Derick Rose can’t pass the SAT, he won’t be able to decipher your legal-ease during a 20 second timeout. And Chicago expects to win and win soon – especially if they land Lebron. Speaking of Lebron, he’s not exactly a coach’s best friend. If you don’t believe me, just ask Mike Brown. My prediction? Pain...

On the bright side, you’ll bank over $6 million dollars and earn the head coaching chops you need to succeed whatever coach fails in Boston after Doc Rivers leaves to do TV work… I mean, spend time with family.

Q: Debo, say Queensbridge!!
=) Ron Artest

A: Queensbridge!

Q: Debo: Please cease and desist any and all derogatory tweets, comments, or articles about NBA officiating during this Finals series.
Sincerely, David Stern

A: Gulp… I hadn’t even gotten started yet. However, it was curious to see Ray Allen hand-cuffed by fouls in Game 1 only to have Kobe Bryant given the same treatment in the next contest. Obviously, we’ll never know, but it stands to reason that Kobe would have gotten a fifth and sixth foul out of the Boston bigs if he didn’t already have five fouls himself late in the fourth of Game 2. But in all honesty, isn’t this part of loving NBA basketball. Pro wrestling never would’ve made it without crooked refs, right? Now, if we could only knock Bennett Salvatore unconscious with an “accidental” chair shot.

-Special thanks to Alex for some clutch questions when I hit the wall. You wouldn't laughing at this column without his help!

Predictions: NBA Finals and Strip Clubs

The NBA Postseason is like an evening at a strip club. We start out with 16 sixteen scantily clad women – some deserve to be there, some don’t. We know that over the course of the night the frauds will be exposed. But we’ve paid our cover, and we’re in for the long haul. Everything starts with excitement in the first round (of drinks). Before long, things settle into a lull when we realize that only a few of these girls are worth staying until last call. But we strap ourselves in and enjoy the show. It’s only when half your crew is ready to go that you find that THE girl for THE lapdance (a Celtics-Lakers match-up).

OK, so maybe that was a stretch. But I’m giving you my loves and hates for the Lakers, Celtics, and of course… strip clubs.

I hate that the hottest girls in the building are often the ones serving drinks… It always leaves me wondering what might have been.

I love that Kobe Bryant and Ray Allen genuinely dislike each other.

I hate that Andrew Bynum will see significant playing time in an NBA Finals series.

I love that the girls serving drinks in a strip club are like strippers in training.

I hate paying a cover to sleazy strip clubs. A cover charge should only be used for a nice (not sleazy) bar. It should be a symbol that means, “No diseases in here!”

I love the match-up of Kobe-Fisher against Rondo-Ray Ray… something’s gotta give. And I don’t think it’s Ray Allen’s jumper.

I hate that this could be the last time we see both Phil Jackson and Doc Rivers in a long time.

I love that Ron Artest once “pants-ed” Paul Pierce.

I hate when strippers give me rules. I just gave you $100, lady. I get to make the rules.

I love that Kendrick Perkins is one T away from a suspension, but I hate that a ref may decide the NBA Title.

I love seeing glitter all over my buddy’s face as he struts out of the back room.

I hate looking at myself in an IHOP bathroom and seeing glitter on my face from the night before.

I love the KG-Pow Pau match-up. Both have their kryptonite: KG may be banged up and Gasol may be a pussy.

I hate that girlfriends never go to strip clubs, but act like they know everything about them.

I love that despite all the things I hate about strip clubs…. I still love going to strip clubs.

Finally, I love that this Finals series will be about toughness. If you’re picking the Lakers, you believe that Ron Ron, Kobe, and Pau are tougher than PP, KG, and Rondo. I don’t believe that for a second. And that’s why I’m picking the Celtics in six. And to celebrate I’m going to the strip club! Who’s with me?

NBA Finals: Why the Celtics Will Win

Tuesday we viewed the upcoming NBA Finals through a Lakers' prism. Today, we'll don green tinted glasses and find reasons for a Celtic victory.

#1. Tom Thibodeau knows what he's doing.
Kobe Bryant has proven he's the best postseason scorer in the NBA, but Tom Thibodeau, Boston's defensive guru and assistant head coach, lives (eats, sleeps, breaths, poops) to stop postseason scorers. If you don't believe me think back to how the Celtics handled Dwayne Wade and Lebron James in Rounds 1 and 2. Kobe enjoyed unprecedented freedom from physical defenders against Utah and Phoenix. Not surprisingly, Kobe went off averaging over 33 points in each series. He won't enjoy the same treatment from Boston's defense. Kobe will be hit, he will be hit hard, and he will be hit often.
And don't forget, the C's have 24 fouls to spend protecting the rim with Kendrick Perkins, Kevin Garnett, Rasheed Wallace, and Glen Davis. The LA duo of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom may be a bit of a bad match-up, but with that many fouls Boston can literally bludgeon the Lakers to death. Look for the Celtics, led by Tom Thibodeau, to create a wall of bodies and fouls keeping the Lakers out of the paint and out of their offense.

#2. Ray Allen may actually run 30 miles over the course of six games.
The tandem of Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen presents an interesting conundrum for the Lakers. It sounds like Kobe will guard Rondo and Derek Fisher will trail Ray Ray (most of the time). Chasing Ray Allen around double screens and picks for 40 minutes will take the legs out from under any player, much less a 35 year old like Fish. Undoubtedly, there will come a time that Kobe draws the duty of following Ray Allen on his marathon sprint. Doing so, will take a serious toll on both Fish and Kobe's legs.
Logically, that toll will have an effect on both players' production on the offensive side of the ball. If Ray Ray gets hot for a couple of games, it will only get harder and harder for Fish and Kobe to run the Lakers triangle offense.

#3. Andrew Bynum is still Andrew Bynum.
Bum knee or not, Andrew Bynum has a history of playing like a chump. He certainly did so against the Phoenix frontline of Amare Stoudemire and Robin Lopez. Things will only get harder for young Andrew. He'll be bumped, slapped, hit, and frustrated every minute he sees the floor. If history repeats itself, he quickly become a non-factor and likely even a drain on the Lakers' offense.
This is significant specifically because the Celtics have four scoring options (Pierce, Rondo, Allen, and KG). Without an effective Bynum, the Lakers are stuck with Kobe, Gasol, and (less than reliable) Lamar Odom. LO only seems to have two good games a series. After that he's as likely to disappear as he is to show up for an average box score. Unless Bynum finds a new level of resolve and toughness to play through the likely pain he'll experience with a gimpy knee, the Lakers will be playing three on four (and sometimes two on four) for most of the NBA Finals.

All things considered, the Lakers may have Kobe, but the Celtics everything else. If defense wins championships and rebounds win games, Boston has more than enough to hoist another Larry O'Brien trophy. The sun may be setting on the Celtics' aging core, but it will also set on an NBA Championship in two weeks.

NBA Finals: Why the Lakers Will Win

The NBA Finals are just days away. And an historic clash of NBA titans awaits. The Lakers and Celtics have more NBA Titles combined that Alex and I have ex-girlfriends... and that, boys and girls, is saying something. To get you ready for the epic seven game tilt, I'll take a look at the series from both sides, starting with LA.

#1. Kobe Bryant is the best basketball player alive.
Before the Kobe-hating Lebrons lose their collective minds, I mean that his season is still alive. Kobe is the best baller still balling. While Lebron is talking with his "team" of advisers and Larry King, Kobe is making a joke of the Western Conference Playoffs -- shifting his game to otherworldly levels... even for him. After dispatching with the Thunder and Jazz (yawn...), Kobe averaged 33.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.2 rebounds a game against Phoenix. Despite the Lakers "struggles" with the Suns zone defense, Kobe kept draining contested jumper after contested jumper.
The Lakers were so dominant early in the Western Conference Finals thanks to huge efforts from Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. The series only lasted six games because Pow Pau and LO were largely absent from the box scores of games three through six. Gasol and Odom averaged 17 and 12 points, respectively, in those games. Even without the Lakers' bigs making significant contributions, the Lakers still scored over 100 points, only falling short in two games because they couldn't hold the Suns under 115 points themselves. What's more is that Kobe learned to pick his spots, pass out of double teams, rely on Derek Fisher and Ron Artest to hit jumpers and create lanes themselves. Kobe is at his complete game best and finally understands how to control the game without wasting possessions against smothering double teams.
My point is that Kobe will get the support he needs from Odom and Gasol in at least a couple of games during the Finals. Over the past couple of weeks, he proved he can carry the load to scratch out a couple more wins on his own.

#2. Ron Artest will drive Paul Pierce crazy.
Ron Artest may have many faults (say Queensbridge!), but his physical defense has been invaluable for the Lakers this postseason. Artest is the perfect defender for Kevin Durant and he put on a clinic harassing Durantula every inch of 94 feet in Round 1. Expect to see more of the same against Paul Pierce.
And lately, Pierce hasn't shown the MVP Finals form from two years ago. The past two years have limited his hops and ability to create off the dribble. And the Cleveland series showed that the task of guarding a top level player severely limits his offensive contribution. Pierce can play well in spurts, but he hasn't been able to create in late possessions when Boston needs him most.
Because Paul Pierce enjoyed blow-out wins against the Cavs and Magic, we didn't see much crunch time offense from the Celtics. But the little we did see was rather anemic. (Remember the Magic forcing overtime in Game 4?) Rondo is by far the best creator in Celtic green, but he defers to his veteran teammates in the final possessions. Considering that refs typically swallow their whistles in the closing seconds of the NBA Finals, the Lakers should enjoy a decided advantage with Artest bodying up on Pierce.

3. Boston's bench or lack thereof.
The Suns bench did put on a show in the WCF, but Boston won't play anywhere near the fast pace of the Suns. And let's don't forget how banged up Boston is right now. Big Baby? Concussed. Rasheed Wallace? Back spasms. Rondo? Still banged up from a scary fall. And while Kendrick Perkins isn't injured, he's one technical foul away from a one game suspension.
Also, consider that the Lakers don't employ a true four or five man second unit. Lamar Odom, arguably the third most valuable Laker, comes off the bench for 35-40 minutes a night. Jordan Farmar, Shannon Brown, and Shasha Vujacic collectively back up Ron Artest, Derek Fisher, and Kobe Bryant. The Lakers use a mix of 2-3 starters and reserves for their bench. If LA can run and get one or two of their shooters a hot hand, look out.
Even if the C's are 100% healthy, Rasheed Wallace, Glen Davis, and Kendrick Perkins aren't designed to guard Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol when they face up to the basket in the post. The Celtics dominated the Magic with a physical, post-clogging defense. The Lakers would be wise to use the triangle offense and their athletic bigs to stretch Boston's vaunted defense.

In sum, the stars are aligned in Hollywood. This could be Phil Jackson's last hurrah. Kobe needs this fifth ring to inch closer to Michael Jordan and eclipse Magic Johnson in Laker lore. Gasol is a more tougher, mature post player. Artest desperately wants to prove he's a worthy addition.to a title contender. This isn't the 2008 Lakers. This is a veteran squad hungry to etch their name in NBA history.