Game 54 Preview & Thread: Nuggets at Cavaliers (6pm MST)
Denver Nuggets at Cleveland Cavaliers, Feb 18, 2010 6:00 PM MST
Nuggets fans won't have to wait long to see how the team responds to the sad news that head coach George Karl has been diagnosed with cancer again. Considering the circumstances, playing at Cleveland in a nationally televised game just two days after Karl's shocking revelation might be the team's biggest test of the season thus far.
When we last saw the Cavaliers, the Carmelo Anthony-less Nuggets eeked out a thrilling 99-97 early January victory at Pepsi Center while yours truly got his 15 minutes of fame in one ESPN broadcast. As we well remember, the Nuggets were red hot in January, winning 12 of their 15 games.
So far, the hot streak hasn't extended into February with the Nuggets playing .500 ball. But the competition has gotten much tougher. With the exception of playing the lowly Sacramento Kings to kick off February, the Nuggets have faced all playoff caliber foes and in each game, the Nuggets have been shorthanded with either Melo, Chauncey Billups or Kenyon Martin missing action in those six contests.
In keeping with that theme of tough competition, the Nuggets begin the unofficial "second half" of the NBA season by having to play on the road against the NBA's hottest and premier team: the Cavaliers. Since losing at Denver on January 8th, the boys in "red wine and gold" have lost just once. Once! (to quote Joe Piscopo from "Johnny Dangerously", one of my all-time favorite 80s comedies.) If you're scoring at home, that means the Cavs are winners of 15 of 16, while currently riding a 13-game winning streak. And just like last season, the Cavs are virtually unbeatable at home where they've lost just three times all season, two of which came in the first week as they were figuring out how to play with Shaquille O'Neal on board.
Throw in the newly acquired, recent All-Star Antawn Jamison (even though he plays the same position at LeBron James, so I'm a little suspect about how this will work out) and the Cavaliers - in theory - are marching all the way to the NBA Finals.
So, if the challenge wasn't great enough as-is, enter Karl's revelation that he has been diagnosed with cancer for the second time in his life. The Nuggets players shouldn't (and don't) need Karl's situation to get up emotionally for a big game like this. But if there's a silver lining, it's possible that the Nuggets players will have an extra morsel of energy and fight in them down the home stretch of the season as they're suddenly playing for more than a title. They'll be playing to make their coach, who has put them in the best possible position to succeed with or without him on the bench, proud.
Fortunately for the Nuggets players and fans, Karl will be on the bench Thursday night in Cleveland, one of his former stomping grounds as an NBA coach (see photo above). Right off the bat this sends an inspiring message to the team: I might be down, but I'm not out and I'm going to fight this thing to the bitter end.
The least the players can do is play basketball with that same mantra and I expect nothing less of this squad, a collection of players who have shown - if anything - a remarkable resilience to succeed in the face of great adversity in their own lives. Whether its Chauncey Billups who was left for dead by five NBA franchises (including ours) before finding his place in NBA lore and may end up in the Hall of Fame. Or Kenyon Martin who has battled back admirably from two devastating knee surgeries to become the best defensive (and not a bad offensive) player on the team. Or Carmelo Anthony who seems to be making the right choices after making so many bad ones that many in Nuggets Nation once wanted him traded. Or J.R. Smith who knows first-hand what the death of a close friend feels like and the burden the goes along with that. Or Arron Afflalo who has never been given a chance to succeed in the NBA until now and is making the most of it. Or Nene who himself knows a thing or two about overcoming cancer and getting back on the floor as a better player and person. Or Chris Andersen who was banned from the league for substance abuse, only to turn his life around and return as one of the best energy guys off the bench in the entire league. Or rookie Ty Lawson who was passed over by so many teams who thought he didn't have an NBA body or an NBA game.
And so on and so on.
The feel good stories here in Denver are endless, but they don't automatically translate into wins. Starting Thursday night in Cleveland, let's hope that the greatest feel good story in Nuggets history is about to unfold.
SCOUTING THE CAVALIERS...
Cavaliers Stiffs
-The Cavs peanut gallery insisting on a trade: When you're 43-11, it's hard to argue for an upgrade. And yet the entire NBA world was convinced that LeBron James was incapable of winning a ring without a second All-Star caliber player beside him (even though he plays with three former All-Stars in Mo Williams, Shaquille O'Neal and Zydrunas Ilgauskas). After weeks of speculation, the Cavs finally pulled the trigger on a deal sending Big Z away for Antawn Jamison, an All-Star player who needs a lot of shots. It will be interesting to see if Cavs coach Mike Brown can make this work with under 30 games left to play in the regular season.
-Anderson Varejao: If Varejao played on my team, I'd love him for baiting opposing power forwards and centers into unnecessary fouls. But since he's not on my team, he's a flopping pain-in-the-ass who drives me nuts for baiting opponents into fouls.
-LeBron James if he's leaves Cleveland: The Cavs organization has literally done everything and anything possible to surround LBJ with a championship caliber squad, evident yet again with the Jamison acquisition. Sure LBJ could bolt for New York, but did he notice that Donnie Walsh passed on Brandon Jennings and Ty Lawson in favor of Jordan Hill (already rumored to be on the trading block) and that the Knicks don't even have their own lottery pick this summer?
Cavaliers Non-Stiffs
-LeBron James: 29.9 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 8.3 apg (career high), 1.6 spg, 50.6% FG shooting (career high) and 36.1% three-point shooting (career high). Are you @#$%& kidding me?!
-Shaquille O'Neal: I gave O'Neal a hard time earlier in the season and even stupidly suggested the Nuggets consider trading K-Mart for him to ditch K-Mart's contract. But after taking a half season to get into shape, Shaq is producing making it very difficult for teams to score against or defend the Cavaliers. In the last 24 games, the soon-to-be 38 year old Shaq has scored in double digits 22 times while finally calling out Dwight Howard for ripping off his Superman routine. You gotta love the Diesel.
-Zydrunas Ilgauskas: Has a career starting center ever accepted a back up role so gracefully? This is why I cringed when I heard that the Big Z and his expiring contract were shipped out for Jamison. Lest we forget that LBJ loves this guy. Even worse, does this mean no more Big Z puppet ads? I love those!
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701 comments
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Comments
so what
I think Jamison is waht you call a good guy and a good teammate, but only if he gets enough shots and in his world “enough” is “a whole lotta”. I don’t see him playing tonight and i don’t see this play out as well as the fans in cleveland want it to.
Not a bad time to play them
When you have to face a team that is dominating doing it after 6 days rest and a major trade can’t hurt. I’m not sure what to think of this trade but Cleveland certainly didn’t give up much. I think we have a perfectly good chance at winning but I’m just glad the Nugs are playing again. Kinda weird catching Cleveland and Washington on a back to back following this deal.
Doubt they are actually losing Big Z
It appears to be the same situation as when the Nuggets “acquired” McDyess in the Iverson-Billups trade. In this case Z is just going to sit out 30 games and then resign with the Cavs.
That's what I'm hoping
You’d hate to see a guy give himself totally to a franchise only to have them turn around and dump him in his twilights years on the verge of a ship. They’ll pick him back up. Or they risk cursing the franchise. Oh wait, that city’s already cursed. Perhaps something biblical in proportion would happen, like the Cuyahoga River lighting on fire. Oh wait…
by Artimus Mangilord on Feb 18, 2010 11:01 AM MST up reply actions
Big Z
He has to wait 30 days to go back to Cleveland but not any other team. The nuggets should throw a irristable offer at him. Like “imagine beating them in the finals after they dumped you in that trade”?
by JR2 on Feb 18, 2010 7:06 AM MST via mobile reply actions
By the way cleveland doesNOT have an open roster spot. They have the league maximum right now, so they have to waive someone else first
by JR2 on Feb 18, 2010 7:10 AM MST via mobile up reply actions
We should seriously try to poach Big Z
As far as I know if he is bought out by the Wizards and released, there will be no need to match salaries since he is in effect an unrestricted free agent. We can probably offer him a lot more than Cleveland and also possibly screw them over when they play tall teams in the playoffs. It also gives us some size to match up with the Lakers and hopefully keep our big guys fresh and reduces the chances of fouling out.
If the Nuggets are serious about finding another big guy for the lineup, this is as good as it gets as we wouldn’t have to release any of our core guys, just someone who isn’t producing to make room for him. I’m sure that Denver would be one of the teams he would like to play for seeing that they could use him and are certainly one of the top teams in the NBA.
You hit it on the head Andrew
From the coach on down, when something hits them in the mouth, these Denver Nuggets fight back HARD. It’s why I’m optimistic about Karl, why I think we’re legit title contenders as is, and why I genuinely love this team – maybe more than any I’ve ever rooted for.
Interesting, because the Nuggets are 0-7 in the past 7 years when facing elimination in the playoffs. I’m hoping this year’s team either: a.) doesn’t ever face eliminiation in the playoffs (unlikely) or b.) responds to the adversity by fighting back hard with a big win. We haven’t seen that fight-back response yet from the Nuggets in the playoffs. I hope you’re analysis is right, because that is what this team really needs to bring to the playoffs this season.
You're right about elimination games
But I was talking about the team in larger sense. KMart working to get back (better than ever, imho) in the face of injuries that gave him every reason in the world to throw in the towel. Melo working to make himself a better person, player and teammate after a lot of people had written him off as a troublemaker and malcontent. Karl having the guts to admit after the Laker debacle two seasons ago that what he was doing wasn’t working and going back to the drawing board. Chauncey taking his game to another level when people thought he was on the way out. Nene’s cancer battle. Even JR, through all his ups and downs, still out there game-in game-out trying to put it all together. That’s where I see the fight.
Sure, I’d like to see us do better in elimination games (though I’d prefer we simply not be in that position). But being a fighter isn’t really about the result – it’s about how you do it on the way there. Watching the Nuggets, I see a team that was Charmin soft for the better part of its existence and now refuses to be bullied by anyone or anything. I love that.
most of those elimination games were
an 0-3 situation, or a 3-1 situation
when ur down 3-0…correct me if i’m wrong but that upset has yet to happen in nba history
Tonight
Is not only going to be an epic game, but we’re going to see a different Denver Nuggets team. They’re ready, and so are we.
QUICK INJURY REPORT:
Nuggets: Renaldo Balkman is out (back strain) tonight.
Cavaliers: Mo Williams (left shoulder sprain) and Leon Powe (left knee surgery) are both out tonight as well.
Denver Stiffs.com: Defending the sovereignty of Nuggets Nation.
short handed
the players involved in the trade aren’t playing either, so the Cavs will be short handed.
I’ve been one of the biggest critics of Karl on this site. I’m surprised at how much Karl getting cancer is bothering me. It’s like a member of my family got cancer.
Between the cavs being short handed and the nuggets emotional state, this should be a big win for the Nuggets.
by CancerSucks on Feb 18, 2010 10:06 AM MST up reply actions
Classy post
I know exactly how you feel. I haven’t always loved Karl as an X’s and O’s guy, but he’s brought me some great moments as a fan over the years and seems like genuinely good peeps to boot.
So get well big G – whatever differences we may have had over the years, you are family and Nuggets Nation has your back on this one.
Like Andrew mentioned on 104.3 last night ...
Karl is a part of our Nuggets family. Whether you like his coaching or not you probably are just realizing you have some unconditional sports love for him because … he’s like family.
Denver Stiffs.com: Defending the sovereignty of Nuggets Nation.
by Nate Timmons on Feb 18, 2010 10:28 AM MST up reply actions
Genuine
Is a word that has always described Karl to me. I don’t think you’ll find a more genuine guy in sports. Cares about the game of basketball. Cares about his players. Wears his heart on his sleeve a lot of times. Even if someone doesn’t agree with all of his moves on the basketball court, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who doesn’t respect and admire him as a person and as a proponent of playing basketball the way it should be played.
I have a feeling the Nugs are going to really run with this. They’ve already shown over the past two seasons that they can beat anyone, and beat them badly, if they play the game right. I think they’ll be playing it right for Coach Karl now. I wouldn’t want to be Cleveland tonight.
And with the 32nd pick in the 2009 NHL draft, the Red Wings select: Someone other than Ryan O'Reilly. LOL@Detoilet.
by Bob in Boulder on Feb 18, 2010 10:37 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
expectations
I think it would be awesome and hugely inspirational to see the Nuggets respond to the GK news by playing some incredible basketball and winning a game like this. But who knows.
I’ve been a big complainer and doom-sayer after a lot of the bad losses this season, but at this point I won’t really blame them if they come out unfocused for any game.
Quite frankly, if it were up to me, I’d just throw in the towel.
by ParkHillNative on Feb 18, 2010 10:58 AM MST reply actions
Karl
Hi there, used to post here all the time but haven’t in ages. Just wanted to touch base with the wider Nuggets family to send my sympathy and support to GK and his family during this time. It’s been said a million times already but things like this put everything into persepctive. Sometimes I feel like I live and die by this team but this news sets me straight; it’s just a game. So heaps of love from this die hard Nuggets-head down under. Go Nuggets!
I don't have much to say
What with the news of George Karl’s cancer, the improvement of Dallas/Portland/Cleveland/Houston/etc., and not being able to get Tyrus Thomas/anyone at all, it hasn’t been a great week for us Nuggets fans. The Nuggets’ championship hopes are shrinking; it’s looking more and more like “there’s always next year” in Denver. Yeah, next year…when Portland will have recovered, Houston will have Yao back, OKC will be better than ever, the Lakers won’t have gone anywhere…the future doesn’t look great.
Hm. yeah. I was hoping to put something inspirational at this point but now I’m feeling too depressed. Help me think of something.
Ye of little faith
I’ll take the Nugs over any of the teams you mentioned, “upgrades” or no. And last I checked, we’re undefeated against the defending world champs. So at 35-18/2nd seed in the west, you wanna throw in the towel ‘cus we didn’t get Tryus fucking Thomas?
Screw that.
jeez debbie downer
none of those teams are really threats IMO-definitely not portland/houston. much more worried about utah, who we may be chasing in the standings before long.
deadline deals are overrated. while not supremely knowledgeable, I can’t even think of a recent one that had a huge impact.
by Rainbow skyline on Feb 18, 2010 6:27 PM MST up reply actions
zo epm
Troy Tulowitzki - Best SS in the MLB - 2010 MVP
"With a guy like Melo, it’s tough to stop him with one person. You can’t. I don’t know one guy who can stop Melo on a consistent basis."-CP3
Brad Hawpe - Will prove the doubters wrong
PS Let's win the NL West in 2010, shall we?
uh...don't know what that was all about
Go Nuggets!! Wish I could hang in the game thread but watching with my mom, and her mac is not in her living room and no wifi
Troy Tulowitzki - Best SS in the MLB - 2010 MVP
"With a guy like Melo, it’s tough to stop him with one person. You can’t. I don’t know one guy who can stop Melo on a consistent basis."-CP3
Brad Hawpe - Will prove the doubters wrong
PS Let's win the NL West in 2010, shall we?
Well
Here I am. I hate these Nuggets’ uniforms but I love the way they’re playing. War the Nuggets going 2-0 on the season versus the Cavs.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:12 PM MST reply actions
Carmelo
looking magnifico as always.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:16 PM MST reply actions
Not all the shots are dropping...
…but we look focused, and the defensive intensity is terrific. We’re gonna be in this one.
Already
a 7-point lead at the Q. The Nuggies look sharp
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:20 PM MST reply actions
love love love love LOVE
LOVE seeing Melo get a good defensive stop on LBJ a couple of minutes ago.
LOVE that.
Nuggets getting shat on by announcers per usual?
I fucking hate national broadcasts, but I guess I should be thankful because I can’t hear it while I’m at work. How’dwe look so far?
Swats.
Melos playing pretty nice D on lebron
If he brings this intensity on the defensive side of the floor consistently than we are a championship caliber team
by Cargo5 on Feb 18, 2010 6:21 PM MST via mobile reply actions
dont get me wrong, i love melo
but is it just me or does he only play solid d when he’s up against the big names like kobe last year?
why cant he do it all the time??
It's a chronic case of Careitis, i'm afraid
and it afflicts most of the Nuggets not named Renaldo Balkman equally
Swats.
Z would be a HORRIBLE fit on the Nuggets.
We would almost entirely have to shift to a HC offense for him cause he ain’t running anywhere.
Swats.
But he has a shot from the outside
Don’t speculate. Cheap Stan isn’t going to give up any more money.
Heh, I know that, you know that samd
Kroenke is standing pat, the Nuggets are who they are till June
Swats.
Oddly enough, LeBron
Shitty announcers are the norm. But something about LeBron’s whole schtick really rubs me the wrong way…
Tirico, Hubie Brown and Kevin Calabro
are all good and I’ll tolerate JVG because he thinks the BCS sucks like I do. Otherwise, national announcers suck.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:31 PM MST up reply actions
K-Mart
with the throwdown
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:27 PM MST reply actions
Let's go Nugs
It appeared that we did try and get Tyrus btw. We just wouldn’t offer more than the bobcats.
Good Night For Syracuse
and their alums with Carmelo tearing it up thus far!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:33 PM MST reply actions
J.R. Swish
goes against Jim Rome’s rule that thou shalt not self-gloss but if J.R. shoots well, who cares?
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:35 PM MST reply actions
Hack a Shaq?
I mean we can’t let the big fella fat his way into the lane
The Cavs Look Sluggish
but accredit the Nuggets for that.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:37 PM MST reply actions
Man what is bird supposed to do against the diesel? Shaq has about 100 pounds on him
by Cargo5 on Feb 18, 2010 6:38 PM MST via mobile reply actions
Well normally
We’d at least have to deal with Ilgauskus’ length (which I vividly remember burned us often with jumpers as well) and they don’t have him. It’ll likely be different with Jamison, but they don’t even have Ilgauskus.
Whoever Said Marv Albert
is trash, I’m afraid I must agree
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:45 PM MST reply actions
I know we need offense
But i honestly hope we don’t go to Melo to find that. He can score, but once he gets it into his mind that everyone else is doing bad, he starts chucking, and the offense goes into “Give the ball to Melo and get out of the way” mode.
Bad as we're shooting
I’d be happy if we were just down single digits. The fact that we’re actually leading bodes pretty well in my book…
We turn into a jump shooting team
When the refs swallow their whistles
2-11
suggests that perhaps Carmelo should defer a bit more.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:52 PM MST reply actions
Afflalo
wasted a foul there but all things considered the Nuggets lead.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 6:54 PM MST reply actions
Shut the fuck up Marv Albert
You are not a referee
Well were not even playing that well
But were beating the team with the best record by 8 points at halftime, says a lot about our guys
by Cargo5 on Feb 18, 2010 7:08 PM MST via mobile reply actions
Gosh Dang
Dish Network is acting screwy, thank goodness for atdhe.net
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:09 PM MST reply actions
afflalo
Getting it done…even the meaningless half time interview is working for him. AFFLALO!
by porridgeorange on Feb 18, 2010 7:09 PM MST via mobile reply actions
The thread is a little slow tonight
WE’RE UP ON THE CAVS!!!!!!! LET’S TAP THIS ASS and blow out the Wiz tomorrow
HELLS YEAH
I’d like nothing better than to see The Little Prince stomp off court after his team’s nationally televised EPIC FAIL…
ty and afflalo?
Didn’t aa go to ucla?
by porridgeorange on Feb 18, 2010 7:15 PM MST via mobile up reply actions
Kenny Smith
likes his Heels and I like any Southern Utah University basketball players that do well in the NBA. Of course, my Thunderbirds have been bereft of quality NBA prospects so I guess that’s why I don’t comment on them.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:15 PM MST reply actions
Good half.
I don’t like this early starts. In between the scary commute and cooking dinner in the first quarter and eating during the second, I really couldn’t pay attention to the game. I didn’t really get to see the Nuggets open that big lead. By the time I sat down to eat the Cavs were playing better basketball. Frustrating.
But it’s looking good. It is nice to see the Nuggets rested and healthy. Nice to see Anthony shooting like Anthony, 2-11? Yeah, baby!
What’s nice is when you know your team can improve substantially in the second half. If Melo is able to get going, we might actually win this thing.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
I Guess
that’s why Pau never shows his teeth
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:20 PM MST reply actions
Kenny
helped a referee escape on the ATL expressway? For who, for what? Why would anybody help a ref, let alone a player?
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:21 PM MST reply actions
No shit, eh?
What channel? I might have to switch over during a commercial.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
*yawn*
Rough shooting for Melo, I see…
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 7:26 PM MST reply actions
How did Cleveland get 10 points so fast?
Denver was up 10 when I checked the hockey game. What the hell?
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
No more fuckin layups
If I could dunk I would do all the time
Good one melo
talking down the other end and get burned on the offense.
Ridiculous
my Jr. Jazz (sorry guys in Utah that’s what they call youth basketball go figure) coach in 3rd grade told me to never foul a jump shooter. Thus, Carmelo shouldn’t either.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:30 PM MST reply actions
While I am frustrated with Melo's poor shooting
I admire how he is getting to the line and taking it to Shaq, getting him out of the game.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
What's new?
I wish Melo was as in love with other statistical categories as he was scoring.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Better Get the Ship Righted
ASAP lest the Cavs blow the Nuggets out here
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:37 PM MST reply actions
Man, Melo's fired up.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 7:45 PM MST reply actions
That's How It's Done
Carmelo!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:45 PM MST reply actions
The TNT Guys Are Even
bigger idiots than usual on atdhe.net where there are no commercial breaks. Keep the profanity to a minimum guys
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:46 PM MST reply actions
nugs are looking great!
Troy Tulowitzki - Best SS in the MLB - 2010 MVP
"With a guy like Melo, it’s tough to stop him with one person. You can’t. I don’t know one guy who can stop Melo on a consistent basis."-CP3
Brad Hawpe - Will prove the doubters wrong
PS Let's win the NL West in 2010, shall we?
TNT has an exclusive deal for their broadcasts
ESPN is a bit more lax about broadcasting rights.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
79-75
Things could be worse
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 7:53 PM MST reply actions
I
Understand melo has already been to line a bunch but its the defenders job to keep him from getting to the paint and the reffs are bailing out the cavs right now. I feel bad for melo hes getting beat up out there and not getting even half the calls he should be getting.
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to end- it's about dancing in the rain.
by MeloBackPacking on Feb 18, 2010 7:54 PM MST reply actions
Nuggets need to
Get the game on like they did in the first period. The crowd needs to be taken out of the game. The momentum is with the Cavs.
Nice Nuggets Surge
Keep the pressure on!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:01 PM MST reply actions
WE ARE RIGHT THERE!
This game is still ours to take. Just need to lock it down on D and hit a few shots.
Way to hang in
We need some energy on defense they are getting ridiculous easy shots just a few stops and we make a big run
Canada wins
Crosby gets the goal in a shoot-out, Brodeur gets the winning save. Fun stuff.
Now, back to the Nuggets.
Sorry. I love Olympic hockey and world cup soccer almost as much as I love NBA.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Actually this time around
They aren’t playing on Olympic style ice
What's the score?
My feed died.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:04 PM MST reply actions
Thanks.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:05 PM MST up reply actions
We can't get any fuckin calls
So we stop driving…
Awful shot JR
But it went in. Yay for that.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Win or lose
The Nuggets played well against the top team in the league. Denver can hold their heads high.
But a win would be HUGE!
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
O yea gotta say it once tonight
Fuck the Lakers
Not worried about them
We are a better team when healthy.
Go Boston
Too bad Boston isn’t that good.
sigh
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
It's funny though...
Part of me hates the Cavs more. At least the Lakers have the hardware. Cavs are like the San Diego Chargers – paper champions year in, year out.
Except
as we Broncos fans know the Dolts are classless a-holes. The Cavs have a modicum of dignity to them.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:18 PM MST up reply actions
I don't know about that
LeBron’s chalk routine, the photo poses – is there another team that struts more and has accomplished less?
but denver did NOTHING at the trade deadline
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
Malik Allen then if Nene fouls out.
gulp
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
kenyon double double machine martin
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
I Wouldn't Have Called a Foul
but then again, I know “nothing” about basketball, please note the sarcasm…
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:21 PM MST reply actions
On a More Propitious Note
Nene’s dunk was nasty. As we lussophones say: Maravilhosas Nene!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:22 PM MST reply actions
Elaborate
What language would someone have to speak to be a lussophone?
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Lulz, beat me to it.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:24 PM MST up reply actions
Portuguese.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:24 PM MST up reply actions
too bad he only does that once a game.
Man, I wish we could get more of that!!!
It's bad enough that everyones on LBJs dick
But this ticky tack shit needs to go both ways
Ticky tack needs to go neither way
but if they insist on calling it then yes you’re right.
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
It's not cus of the penalty though
They’re giving him 3, so they’re saying he was in the act. Fucking bullshit.
My Fellow Italian
Mike Fratello is wise (saggio in Italian) as he says that was a travel….
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:26 PM MST reply actions
at least
The Nuggets got their asses back in the game. Cleveland was running this one to a win during the third.
Shut up, James.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:28 PM MST reply actions
Wow so basically to get a call
There needs to be blood…
Remember
I’m a James as well……
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:28 PM MST reply actions
...Lebron.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:29 PM MST up reply actions
These announcers are horrible....get off your knees already.
by herewereyouwish on Feb 18, 2010 8:28 PM MST reply actions
What?
What is Miller talking about?
If that went the other way I wouldn’t complain about the lack of a call.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Regrettably
anyone who listens to Reggie’s drivel on the telecast deserves what they get.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:30 PM MST reply actions
Carmelo
Meravigliose fratello!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:31 PM MST reply actions
Come on!
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:31 PM MST reply actions
Melo got murdered and fuckin A Lebron
please no bad shot trying to match Lebron melo!
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
Then LeBron
lest he should be trumped does his thing
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:31 PM MST reply actions
Wow really? that is ridiculous
Melo vs Lebron for the final shot and the game pretty much
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:32 PM MST reply actions
Oh well
shut up and play defense Nuggies
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:33 PM MST reply actions
Ovahtime
in C-Town, may the best team win!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:34 PM MST reply actions
Dang.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:34 PM MST reply actions
He should have gone to the hoop on that one
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:34 PM MST reply actions
That's true I haven't been watching the whole game
I just got out of a test and my gf is flipping between the game and the olympics
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:36 PM MST up reply actions
I wanted that one to fall...
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:34 PM MST reply actions
this is the most one-sidedly reffed game I've seen all year
but then again, I haven’t watched many cavs games
by Rainbow skyline on Feb 18, 2010 8:35 PM MST reply actions
You gotta get melo the last shot there.
Come on, Chauncey.
by herewereyouwish on Feb 18, 2010 8:35 PM MST reply actions
bobby knight once said
a good shot by a good shooter
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
Depends
Oh whether you like ridiculous lycra… or pure awesomeness.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Unwar the Celts and Fakers
they’re both overrated
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:36 PM MST reply actions
5 on Shaq
Go after him and get him out.
by the real stranger on Feb 18, 2010 8:38 PM MST reply actions
Now is the Time
to strike, the iron’s hotter than Halle Berry!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:39 PM MST reply actions
Carmelo's
on fire, as they say in NBA Jam circa 1993
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:40 PM MST reply actions
5 on Nene and 5 on Shaq
Who fouls out first?
by the real stranger on Feb 18, 2010 8:41 PM MST reply actions
Does Shaq
even try to have good form on the foul line?
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:41 PM MST reply actions
Not quite as funny as
Charles Barkley playing golf though haha
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:43 PM MST up reply actions
LeBron's
Achilles heel is definitely the foul line.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:43 PM MST reply actions
Chuancey
nails the super plinko but I hope he walks away unscathed. That limping didn’t look too hot
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:44 PM MST reply actions
I agree.
But Denver is not getting the calls tonight. Grr.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
I have a feeling Billups is going to sit tomorrow
The Nuggets should kill the Wizards, who are all busted up from the trades.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
78 seconds
Need a few stops and a few baskets.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
chris weber time out university of michigan
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
Ugh!
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:49 PM MST reply actions
This Is Ridiculous
to choke out a cockroach, you have to step on their heads. What is this crap? I don’t want to watch the Celts and the Fake Show until this game is over
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:49 PM MST reply actions
Amen Brother
only because I despise Showbe and the Fake Show so much. They’re the Oakland Raiders of the NBA to me.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:50 PM MST up reply actions
Is TNT really up LA's ass this much?
stop showing this fucking game
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
wow can we please watch one game at a time
oh wait Stern loves the Lakers and they need to be on TV
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:49 PM MST reply actions
I hate that.
Doesn’t matter who it is.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:51 PM MST up reply actions
My Favorite Afro-Brasilian
in the NBA is gone. Deus benedisse yo Nene!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:51 PM MST reply actions
Nice Job Carmelo
meravigliose sempre!
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:52 PM MST reply actions
There you go Melo!
Now just play spot up defense and don’t let them score with 1.9 left!
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:52 PM MST reply actions
seriously Kobe isn't even in this game?
why are they switching to it?
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:53 PM MST reply actions
Wow that was too close
But amazing game and last shot by Melo!
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:54 PM MST reply actions
I like this mentality.
F**k the Lakers. F**k Lebron. F**k every team that gets more fellatio than the Nugs.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:56 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Er, not that I'm jealous or something...
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:57 PM MST up reply actions
I think your jaw would be way too tired
I think even the Kings get more than the Nuggets
by ColoradoAggie11 on Feb 18, 2010 8:57 PM MST up reply actions
Yeah, true.
I should just get a shirt instead, lol. Whatchu say, Nate and Andrew?
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:01 PM MST up reply actions
Nuggets win
Great game. One of the best of the year.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Nice Job Nuggets
as much as I love my Mavs and what they’ve done in bringing in Caron and Haywood, the Nugs are the team to beat until proven differently. Still, LeBron is the best player in the game, I must concede. Carmelo and Dirk are not far behind.
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:54 PM MST reply actions
Either Nuggets-Cavs
or Mavs-Cavs. I’d be happy with either Dallas or Denver coming out of the West, even Utah, just so long as it’s not the Fakers. Screw Big Chief Pothead and his band of freaks
Brad James
by the new Bradfather on Feb 18, 2010 8:56 PM MST up reply actions
Didn't you hear
it’s lakers vs Cavs, the media has already confirmed it. They are never wrong, like last year when they said the same thing…
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
huge
Win against Lebron and the refs.
GO NUGGZ!!!!
by Crisse_molle_ti_senti on Feb 18, 2010 8:55 PM MST reply actions
That's why I hate Lebron.
He loses the game and the first thing he does is mope and run to the locker room.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 8:55 PM MST reply actions
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVLAZtAcUBk
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:04 PM MST up reply actions
me too...
always watching here in Vegas.
yes yes yes
what a game….. melo is the man… wow… great game by the team too….
Nice win for the coach
who still coaches us after his cancer announcement, what balls.
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
hate tnt and the nba
bet if clevland had won, they wouldnt have cut away.. they would have wanted getting their blowing of LBJ in..
Looking forward to tomorrow recap
Statement win on the road.
denver did not make any moves at the trade deadline
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
Could still make a move...
If any teams buy out an expiring contract, there will be players available after 30 days for the Nuggs to try to cherry pick. Maybe “Big Z”.
Melo is so clutch....
damn… Melo had a great game, Kmart was beasting, Billups hits some big shots, JR had the midrange going, AA was hot early, Ty changed teh game despite the stats, Nene did well, Bird was good til he injured his back Which i hope is ok…. overall great win….
love it
nuggets can win without a call going their way.. even the refs couldnt win that game for cleveland
And Billups
Wasn’t walking around too good.
He might be sore come tomorrow. Let Ty start against the icky Wiz.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
There is no doubt Melo gets extra pumped when playing Lebron
that was fucking awesome.
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
Game winner.
LeBron may have got a triple double, but Melo got the two that meant the most!
denver took 100 shots from the field
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
MELO MVP!
I told my brother after regulation to either a) call time, b) pump fake and get the foul called on gibson or whoever was guarding Billups, or c) give it to Melo. Billups gave up the rock and Melo just did what he does… SCORE! Great game… I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and jumping around and screaming(to the dismay of my parents! =] )
Lebron Cavaliers
i d like to see them without bron bron, should be fun to watch……
by Crisse_molle_ti_senti on Feb 18, 2010 9:02 PM MST reply actions
what thes bet
nba.coms headline is lebrons triple double not enough to stop nuggets just winning, as opposed to cavs winning
james huge triple double helps cavs dominate nuggets while melo has a pathetic 40 points as cavs soar to 14th straight
It'll be this
“Cavs’ Incredible Streak Broken as Lebron Has a Triple Double”
by Uh on Feb 18, 2010 9:05 PM MST up reply actions
This.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:06 PM MST up reply actions
Oh, damn, now I'm even doing it.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:06 PM MST up reply actions
Yup. CB1 had his chance at the end of regulation
Plus, Melo was shooting really good in the second half. He was dismal the first two quarters but ended up with a good shooting night: 47 percent.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Yes!!!!!!
Melo was clutch in that fourth quarter. Anyone count how many three’s Lebron missed in the final minute? I’m going to guess 4, and what a bitch to walk straight into the locker room without even congratulation melo or anything. Man that was terrific, and I am so tired of LBJ getting every damn call. The last one was ridiculous, Nene didnt even graze him. Anyway, take that Cleveland, and national media!
Lebron always does that
Has anyone ever seen him congratulate an opponent?
by Uh on Feb 18, 2010 9:06 PM MST up reply actions
Dont think so
Remember last year when he stormed off of the court and didn’t even talk to reporters when they were eliminated by Orlando? Show some class. And then he complains to the refs even though he gets 100% of the calls.
It's hard to dislike someone more than a Laker, but damn... this guy comes close.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:14 PM MST up reply actions
MELOO
Amazing, watchin the game with 3 cavs fans, fucking awesome win, GO NUGGETS!
by The Great Cambino on Feb 18, 2010 9:04 PM MST reply actions
+1
He’s been acting like a grown up…. for now!
Ring Ring...Ring Ring
Hey Cleveland!
What up! It’s Denver. Sorry to call again but I wanted to let you know that I STILL HAVE YOUR NUMBER! Since 1986, bitch!
by jwkcsu on Feb 18, 2010 9:06 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Yup
Glad we won. Otherwise he’d be hearing it from us about that turnover.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
'Melo pours in 40 as Nuggets snap Cavs' 13-game win streak, spoil LeBron's triple-double
looks like nuggets are finally getting the credit they deserve in the nba, thats straight off nba.com
The Review
Of this game should be called “Who needsa a trade to get better?”
Or as Snoop might put it, "Nugs treat Cavs like 7up"
Never have, never will.
Sleep tight, Little Prince!
I'll never forget...
LBJ’s face and leaving the game the way he did. Crybaby. I have no respect toward this team. Fucking Shaq is no more than a bully and you know what…all those rabid fans get to go back to their homes in… CLEVELAND_OHIO!!! ha ha ha
most miserable city in America!
Cleveland Rocks?
And to cap off the night, some guy ( :p ) giving Lebron the look:

"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:12 PM MST reply actions
Is he looking at LeBron's butt or what?
Just kidding.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
Hahaha.
Mean.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
Matt Prater, pre-2009 season: Despised, lambasted, Josh McDaniels is derided for not replacing him.
Matt Prater, post-2009 season: Loved, praised, everone forgets the time when they called Josh McDaniels an idiot for not replacing him.
by Tempestuous Binary on Feb 18, 2010 9:15 PM MST up reply actions
bron bron must have got some powder on andrew
pick up a calf every day pretty soon you will be picking up a cow
But
Cleveland got to the line way more.
40 free throws to 26. Huge disparity.
Member: 10-man rotation for deep playoff push advocacy group
hack a shaq...
should have been used more with those numbers!
Gotta say,
I can’t get that out of my head. He stammered off the court like a spoiled gradeschool boy. And that look…. shit what a child
I wonder how many games the Nuggets come up on the short end of that number...
Probably only against the Lakers, Cavs, and maybe the Suns.
Boston
has lost some terrible games lately. They looked like they didn’t know what they were doing in the second half against the Magic last week.
Especially in Cleveland
Man I love when they win in that city
by Uh on Feb 18, 2010 9:36 PM MST up reply actions
Congratulations. Great game, probably the most entertaining one ive watched all season. The way you guys play against us i’d rather the lakers come out of the west than you. And when i visit the opposition’s site after a game i don’t expect them to be singing lebron’s praises but some of the criticism isn’t fair i think. Whats the problem with him being emotional after a close loss? I’d rather my star player cry after a loss than laugh the way some players do.
And he didnt congratulate your guys after it was over, big deal. I see that more often than not from everyone, it’s common. If the result was different i would not have expected carmelo to congratulate lebron.
And about the refs, we lost and i’m not blaming them. Their standard wasnt great but it went both ways, we got some calls we shouldnt have, so did you, like that critical play where carmelo got lebron’s wrist when he was going up for a shot and it wasnt called. Bad calls went both ways.
You don't cry in a regular season game
I mean what is up with that? You still have a huge lead in the weak ass Eastern conference, hell you might only cry when you lose to end your season. Not sure anyone here cares about congratulating our players(maybe some but not a big deal). Also you shouldn’t blame the refs cause they were favoring the Cavs.
March 14, 2010: The great one returns!
It's okay, you don't need to defend Lebron here
Most of us get ESPN anyway
by Uh on Feb 18, 2010 9:56 PM MST up reply actions
Preview of the Finals 2010? I'm thinking yes
Great win for the Nuggets. Hope Birdman is okay!
Troy Tulowitzki - Best SS in the MLB - 2010 MVP
"With a guy like Melo, it’s tough to stop him with one person. You can’t. I don’t know one guy who can stop Melo on a consistent basis."-CP3
Brad Hawpe - Will prove the doubters wrong
PS Let's win the NL West in 2010, shall we?

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