Monday //

Boston Celtics at Denver Nuggets. As unlikely as it might sound, the Nuggets are currently just a half game behind the San Antonio Spurs for the second best record in the Western Conference. Read more

SHANE BATTIER THE NO-STATS ALL-STAR

How can someone not score a point, grab any rebounds or block any shots be an all-star? Michael Lewis, author of Moneyball, examines how Shane Battier of the Houston Rockets impacts the game without garnering the normal stats we look for in a high caliber player. When Battier is in the game, his teammates play better and they score more points but how does he do it? He is great at doing all the little things like positioning and boxing out that go unnoticed in traditional box scores. You wont watch the game the same ever again.

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GORDON LEFT OUT OF THREE-POINT CONTEST

Ben Gordon, despite showing some wizardry from beyond the arc, was left out of the three-point shooting contest during the All-Star game. Chicago Tribune’s K.C. Johnson makes the case that Gordon should have a shot, since he’s only behind invitees Indiana Pacer Danny Granger, Orlando Magic Rashard Lewis and Atlanta Hawk Mike Bibby in made three-pointers at 108. His percentage, however, is only higher than Granger’s, so he was left outside looking in. The snub didn’t seem to affect him in the Chicago Bulls’ win over the injury-depleted New Orleans Hornets - Gordon scored 19 points and went three of seven from beyond the three-point line.

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TOP NBA GAMES OF THE WEEK: 2/2 - 2/8

Thursday //

Los Angeles Lakers at Boston Celtics. Three monstrous games between the top two teams in each conference highlight an otherwise slow week in the NBA. After opening the season with a record setting 27-2 start, the Celtics staggered through their next nine games going just 2-7, beginning with a loss to the Lakers on Christmas Day that ended their 19-game winning streak. Read more

FIRST-TIME ALL-STAR SUGGESTIONS

Devin Harris, Al Jefferson and Danny Granger should make the All-Star team for the first time, says Sports Illustrated’s Ian Thomsen. Jason Terry, LaMarcus Aldridge, Al Harrington and Josh Smith are others that should be considered candiates. He acknowledges that not everyone’s going to make it. Deron Williams is an elite point guard, but he likely won’t make the cut.

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ARE THE WASHINGTON WIZARDS DELUDING THEMSELVES?

Are the Washington Wizards deluding themselves? SI’s Ian Thomsen says a new coach and refocus on defense still have them hopeful for a post-season appearance despite starting the season 1-10. Read more