Christmas Eve...

What? No NBA games tonight?? What's going on?

And as usual, I just finished my Christmas shopping. Bravo. A few hours to spare even.

Big trade in the JBL last night...Andrew Bogut for Rudy Gay. This is a deal that could help both teams. I can argue either way who wins this deal...

Brussels gets Rudy Gay. He scores more and for $19 bucks he's quite the bargain really. 20+ ppg, 6reb, 46 stls, 24 blks, he shoots 48 FG% and 32% from downtown. OK, his ATO is a negative, but you gotta take the good with the bad. Brussels 2 weakest categories are scoring and steals and Gay fills both of those needs. And with Tyrus Thomas coming back, Brussels should be able to cover the rebounds that he loses.

Seoul gets Andrew Bogut. Seoul has had problems in the middle (much like the Golden team) with inconsistent play. Yes, Seoul loses in a few categories, the biggest being scoring, but we all know Seoul has a knack for good finishes despite a poor scoring squad. Seoul is now one of the best rebounding teams in the JBL and is technically the best shot-blocking squad as well. Seoul also marginally improves in FG% and ATO with this move.

I really think this could be a trade that both teams can feel good about...until one of them gets hurt.

I have had trade discussions with several teams over the last week or so but nothing has materialized. It's hard for me to even make an offer on players because the other teams obviously want guys off of my squad who I really don't see the need to move. Why would I trade Josh Smith? Why would I move Deng? I'm not going to offer them up in deals unless it significantly improves my team. In a way, I'm kinda lucky because I am in "tinker" mode. Unless the move is a no-brainer I'm really not forced to change the game-plan (yet).

The one deal I see coming is Brandon Jennings. As our keeper trade deadline approaches (All Star break in February), more and more JBL teams will realize their quest for the 2009/10 JBL title is out of reach and begin to think about 10/11. They will want cheap talent and should be willing to pay the price to get it. That's when I expect some decent offers for Mr. Jennings. I realize his play has dropped off since his scorching start, but let's remember the kid is still just 20 years old and he's still learning the ropes of the NBA. He clearly has shown he can play in the league and for just $11 bucks he could be a great start to a Fantasy team in 2010/11. So, I will wait it out and see what offers come in for the kid in February.

I really have a man-crush on Tyreke Evans and Stephen Curry. Love those two guys.

I grabbed Juwan Howard off the waiver wire last night for $10 bucks. I thought he would go for more actually. I know he's 57 years old and he's a long way from being the 135 million dollar player he was in the 90's but the Blazers have no choice to play the guy. The only other big men they have are Jeff Pendergraph and Dante Cunningham - both rookies - so Howard will HAVE to play. He's not gonna put up 20 and 10 but he could be 12 and 8. His first two games have equalled double-doubles and we all know that the L-Train is a little soft when it comes to boards. So, I'm hoping Juwan can be a serviceable F/C for me (once he gains Center eligibility).

The problem with this signing and the imminent return of Barbosa will have me with 4 bench players. So, I need to make a move by Sunday. I am looking at 2 for 1 deals involving Barbosa/Diaw if possible. Will someone be willing to wait on Diaw? Maybe a big Christmas day game from Barbosa would increase his stock? Another option would be a 1 for 1 deal for an injured player...maybe get Tayshaun Prince, Rip Hamilton, or even Mike Miller. I will have to float some offers. But I am confident I can make a move before Sunday. If not, who will I drop??

Well boys, that's all for me today. I hope you guys all have a great Christmas! Spend some time with your families and enjoy the holiday season. Stay off the computer on the 24th and tell your Mrs. that everyday isn't about the JBL. All the best guys. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!