Bryant is one for the ages

Few players in NBA history can match Kobe Bryant's combination of talent and competitive drive.

The best dunk of them all?

Where does Clippers forward Blake Griffin's throw down over Thunder centre Kendrick Perkins rank among the NBA's all-time great dunks?

Jones on Raptors: Who replaces Bargnani?

With centre Andrea Bargnani out indefinitely, the Toronto Raptors will have a tough time replacing his offensive skills in the lineup.

Jones on NBA: Flip's out

Few were surprised when Flip Saunders was shown the door down in Washington.

Jones on NBA: Bryant or James?

The marquee matchup between the Lakers and Heat brought up the age-old question: if you had to pick one, Kobe Bryant or LeBron James?

Jones on Celtics: Three for the road

Is this the final countdown for the Celtics' Big 3 of Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett?

A day to give thanks

Martin Luther King Day is time to take a moment to reflect and maybe, just maybe, think of a way you can make the world a better place.

Jones on NBA: What's new is old

From predictable standings to lights-out performances from Kobe Bryant, not much has changed in the NBA from last season.

Good things come to those who wait

There wasn't quite a parade in Philly when the Raptors came to town, but there were a lot of folks happy to welcome back Ed Stefanski.

Signs of Change

Though the Toronto Raptors may not be a playoff team this season, head coach Dwane Casey says his team is playing playoff-style basketball.

A tale of two halves

The Raptors have had solid starts to games so far this season but need to put together some strong finishes as well.

Little things mean a lot

It always comes down to the little things that define the fine line between winning and losing and for the Raptors it cost them the game.

Meet the Raptors

It's a season where the expectations are low for the Raptors. But don't tell that to new head coach Dwane Casey or any of the players.

NBA preview 2011-12: Southeast Division

It will be tough to top the Heat but Florida's other squad, the Magic, could also make some noise come playoff time.

NBA preview: Atlantic Division

The Raptors will be in tough to move up the ladder in a divison that features heavyweights like the Celtics and Knicks.

NBA preview: Central Division

The Chicago Bulls will be in the mix for the NBA title once again while Cleveland Cavaliers will be in the mix for the top pick once again.

Not according to plan

If their preseason debut is any indication, the Raptors defence could hinder many fans' hopes of landing a top pick in next year's draft.

Jones on NBA: Paul heads west

With the addition of Chris Paul, the Clippers may no longer be second-class citizens in Tinseltown.

Pound the rock

Motivational phrases don't win games but if you believe they can help build the right attitudes toward success, roll out as many as you can.

Jones on NBA: The almost-trade that could be

Although news about Chris Paul going to the Lakers created a stir and fell through, there is still a chance his bags could end up in LA.

Jamaal Magloire coming home?

It looks like Jamaal Magloire may finalize a deal with the Toronto Raptors on Friday.

Jones on NBA: A ton of challenges

With the NBA condensed to a mere 66-game schedule, some teams will feel the hardships more than others.

Balance, schmalance

Wasn't the new CBA supposed to put an end to the mass exodus of NBA stars from smaller markets to the major markets?

Jones on NBA: Making Up For Lost Time

The NBA is trying to make up for lost time when they came up with a 66-game schedule for each team, but many questions need to be asked.

That's a wrap

Both sides gave a bit in the end and now we finally have a deal and can turn our attention to what matters: Basketball.

Season on the brink

NBA players and team owners continue to inch towards pulling the plug on the 2011-12 season.

Time for a deal

The NBA and its' players association sides must realize it is time to finish the job and get back on the hardwood.

Jones on NBA lockout: Who will blink first?

Both sides continue to stand firm in the NBA lockout but one side is going to have to cave at some point.

How many will return?

By cancelling the first two weeks of the season, the NBA is in serious danger of repeating the mistake of the 1994 MLB players' strike.

Friendships flare in NBA talks

The NBA players are eventually going to have to give in to the owners' demands, but must agree on "triggers."

Jones on NBA: Players could flee to Europe

Faced with the expensive proposition of a long lockout, expect more and more NBA players to consider European teams.

In Bryan we trust

Bryan Colangelo may not have made the popular move for the Raptors, but he made the right one.

Draft whisperer

The Raptors have a lot of options with the No. 5 pick in the draft, one of which may be a trade.

Jones: Calm before Raptors news storm

It's eerily quiet in Raptors-land these days. But that's about to change.

Jones on NBA: The better team won

Nevermind the hype around Miami's Big 3. This NBA final should be remembered for how the Mavs prevailed against the odds.

Uncharted waters

With both teams in uncharted waters can the Mavericks continue to throw LeBron James off his game and capture the Larry O’Brien trophy?

Coming up big

There is an old adage that says "in the biggest games, your best players have to be your best players".

Hard to swallow

It’s only one game apiece and before it’s all over, one team and its city will have to swallow even harder than Miami did following Game 2.

Jones on NBA: Raptors on the hunt

Good old fashioned defence

Game 1 showed that defence is a key factor for success.

Breaking down the Finals

Taking a look at the key questions for Dallas and Miami heading into the NBA Finals.

Wrong about the Heat

Breaking down Miami's impressive performance in the Eastern Conference championship series.

Jones on NBA playoffs: One for the ages

The Mavericks accomplished something special against the Thunder.

Much ado about nothing

There has been a lot of talk lately about Russell Westbrook, whose play seems to have become a lightning rod of sorts during the playoffs.

All is not lost

When the Raptors tumbled down the NBA draft board in the lottery, things could have been worse.

Jones on NBA: Dynasties kicked to the curb

The Celtics and Lakers are left to ponder what happened and what to do, but is Miami really the next?

Jones on NBA playoffs: Double trouble

The Celtics and Lakers, last year’s finalists are on the brink of early exits.

D-Wade's day

The Heat guard had a field day as he lit up the Celtics in the series opener.

Jones on playoffs: Wait is finally over

The eagerly-anticipated Celtics-Heat showdown is finally here.

Jones on playoffs: Lakers get the job done

As always, when the Lakers get a chance to finish off someone, the job gets done.

Jones on NBA Playoffs: Kobe does it again

Paul Jones checks in on Kobe Bryant’s heroic Game 5 performance and other news making NBA headlines.

That sinking feeling

There's a strangely familiar pattern to the remaining Eastern Conference playoffs series.

Jones on NBA Playoffs: Hawks figuring it out

The Hawks and Celtics are rolling, the Knicks are struggling and the Canadians are declaring.

Opportunity for Canada?

Is this the time to create a developmental league for Canadian basketball players?

What a start!

Paul Jones chimes in on an incredible opening weekend to the NBA Playoffs.

Whole new season

With the NBA playoffs upon us, it's time to look at the match-ups and offer up a few predictions.

It's time to shine

As the NBA season is about to wrap up, Paul Jones breaks down some key factors heading into the playoffs.

Jones on NBA: Tales from the Big Apple

Paul Jones chuckles over the constant speculation revolving around the Knicks and looks forward to the juicy first round playoff possibilities.

Jones Blog: Tournament memories

Paul Jones reflects on the unforgettable moments of his favourite NCAA tournament final games.

Defining value

With the NBA season coming down the stretch, the MVP debate is always up for discussion. LeBron James has his take as well as others.

Jones on NBA: Wright was wrong

Taking a look at the Julian Wright debacle, the future of Bryan Colangelo and some interesting Wayne Embry tidbits.

Jones on NBA: Enter the Raptor

James Johnson proved he’s more than just a force on the court at Raptors practice.

Trends out West

Trends and streaks are always interesting to look at in the game of basketball.

A solid choice

Tristan Thompson's announcement that he intends to continue his studies at Texas will likely pay off in the long run.

Jones on basketball: Diss from a Rose

It's time to weigh in on a something that's occupying many people's heads and seeing them tread lightly while measuring their words.

Jones blog: March is Lady Luck's month

When it comes to filling out your bracket, the biggest factor is often the one you have the least control over.

Too fabulous, too furious

Is it time for the NCAA to start rewarding college athletes for their contribution to collegiate sports?

Heat stroke

Taking a look at why the Heat continue to struggle at the end of close games.

Feeling the Heat

Jones checks in on the Heat's recent struggles and the issue of concussions in the NBA.

Jones in London: It's a small world

As the NBA's popularity rapidly expands across the globe will the product soon follow?

London Calling

Jones checks in from London as the Raptors are trying to get their body clocks figured out as they prepare for their back-to-back games with the Nets.

Jones on NBA: Catching up with Cuban

Checking in with Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and taking a look at other issues around the NBA.

What a day

The NBA landscape continued to shift on deadline day.

Jones on 'Melo swap: Can he co-exist?

The Knicks financed the future for the present in acquiring veteran scorer Carmelo Anthony.

Jones on NBA: Nike on the other foot

We wonder what is going through the mind of Michael Jordan now that he is on the other side of the CBA table as an owner?

Jones on NBA: Two sides of Bosh

There it was, Chris Bosh blowing kisses to the crowd while striding off the court at the Air Canada Centre.

Jones on Bosh: Cold reception

Fans are right to be disappointed in Chris Bosh's exit from Toronto.

Wade disappearing act

Until Dwyane Wade can find his rhythm against the better teams, the Heat remain just a contender.

A legend killer?

Was Deron Williams the driving force behind Jerry Sloan’s sudden departure in Utah?

Jones on NBA: As Melo's world turns

The revolving drama in Denver involving Carmelo Anthony just never seems to end.

Jones on NBA: 'Melo move no slam dunk

Trading Carmelo Anthony to L.A. makes sense if he knows his role.

Jones on NBA: Futile effort

The Raptors long losing streak was nothing compared to what's still going on in Cleveland.

No run support

Unlike past years, a good defensive effort hasn't been enough for the Raptors to win some games.

Jones on Raptors: Escape from Indy

Raptors continue to lose battle with Mother Nature in Indy.

Tough times

It was just a typical weekend in the NBA with coaches getting fired, rivalries being renewed and players calling each other out.

Not so popular

NBA All-Star voting should be about how well a player is playing, not popularity.

Foul behaviour

LeBron James played great against Toronto but a couple of incidents in the game didn’t sit well here

'Zo money...

What's the difference what Peja Stojakovic did to the Raptors and Alonzo Mourning? Two games in uniform.

Jones on midway mark: Turning the corner

The NBA is at the midway point and some questions have developed.

Jones on NBA: Lessons from Dr. King

Almost half a century after his assassination, Martin Luther King's impact on sports and society is still being felt.

Jones: One team's loss is Raps' Gaines

Raptors fans are hoping Sundiata Gaines still has some of that finishing magic in him.

What's with the officials?

I don't like the fact that NBA officials give favourable calls to the more prominent teams.

Jones on NBA: Is Bosh all-star worthy?

Chris Bosh is getting no love from voters, but there's a chance he'll still end up an all-star.

Jones on NBA: Love for Scalabrine

Were Bulls fans mocking or cheering Brian Scalabrine Tuesday night against the Raptors?

Jones on NBA: Trouble in Beantown?

The Celtics will need Shaq and Jermaine O'Neal to step up if Kevin Garnett is out for a significant length of time.

A shocker in Dallas

The Raptors win on Tuesday in Dallas was on the all-time shocker list.

Jones on NBA: Oak-speak & contraction talk

Oak says hiring a new staff is like taking your car through the wash while LeBron thinks the NBA is watered down.

Shaq-y the showman

Celtics big man Shaquille O'Neal 'orchestrated' a new way to entertain people this holiday season.

Do you believe in Magic?

Did the roster overhaul really improve the struggling Magic?

Be patient

In this world of "I want it, and I want it now," Raptors fans need to be patient with their young team.

Jones on NBA: Charlotte letdown

The Raptors fell short to the Bobcats, but it's never a bad trip when there's a Charles Oakley sighting.

Jones on NBA: Comeback for the ages

A 25-point deficit late in the game did not phase the Raptors. Instead, they completed their biggest comeback in franchise history.

Jones on NBA: War and peace

While Kevin Garnett and George Karl have buried the hatchet, the NBA and players prepare for labour war.

Hornets mess

With the Hornets now in the hands of the NBA, the league should consider going back to Vancouver.

Pressure cooker

You have to take your hat off to LeBron James for stepping up his game in the Return of the King.

Jones on NBA: Tonight's the night

Cue the Rod Stewart: Anyone associated with basketball has had this day circled on their calendar.

Searching for answers

With all the drama in Miami, questions continue to surface about the future of head coach Eric Spoelstra.

Jones on NBA: Jackson loves stirring the pot

Lakers coach Phil Jackson has upset a few folks down in the Sunshine State.

Interior issues

The lack of an interior presence is a big reason the Heat is hurting at both ends of the floor.

Jones on NBA: Interior issues for Heat

Jones on NBA: Raps do what Heat can't

So the Toronto Raptors did something Sunday that the vaunted Miami Heat have been unable to do: beat the Boston Celtics.

In the crosshairs

Trade rumours suggest Raps are targeting Stojakovic. Meanwhile, some take aim at Kobe for his gun-wielding commercial.

Trail of misfortune

With Greg Oden out for the season, Portland basketball fans must be having Sam Bowie flashbacks.

Under pressure

Chris Bosh’s former Raptor team has time to build a championship team; his new Heat squad does not.

Jones on Raptors: It's going to take time

Regardless of how the Raptors' rebuild goes, putting together a winning team won't happen overnight.

Taking time to Heat up

Now that the Heat knows they won’t finish 82-0, they can focus on defining player roles.

Jones on NBA: He has moved on

Cleveland fans are still upset with LBJ and they answered his question, "What should I do."

Jones on NBA: He said, he said

It's a shame that the Charlie V and KG saga couldn't be settled on the court.

Turning up the Heat

Much has been made about the Miami offence, but the Big 3's defence has been the story to date.

Bosh backlash continues

Chris Bosh just wanted to be on television more. Now that sentiment has attracted radio and the web as well.

Meet the Raptors

With more questions than answers surrounding the Toronto Raptors heading into the new NBA season, here is the "skinny" for each guy on the roster.

Spotlight on South Beach

The Miami Heat is now one of those teams. With the addition of LeBron James and Chris Bosh to go along with Dwyane Wade, the Miami squad has polarized basketball fans across the globe.

NBA season previews: Central Division

Leading up to opening night on Oct. 26, sportsnet.ca NBA analyst Paul Jones gets you ready for the season by asking the burning questions surrounding each division.

NBA Division Previews

Leading up to opening night on Oct. 26, sportsnet.ca NBA analyst Paul Jones gets you ready for the season by asking the burning questions surrounding each division.

NBA Division Previews

Leading up to opening night on Oct. 26, sportsnet.ca NBA analyst Paul Jones gets you ready for the season by asking the burning questions surrounding each division.

NBA season previews: Atlantic Division

Leading up to opening night on Oct. 26, sportsnet.ca NBA analyst Paul Jones gets you ready for the season by asking the burning questions surrounding each division.

NBA Division Previews

Leading up to opening night on Oct. 26, sportsnet.ca NBA analyst Paul Jones gets you ready for the season by asking the burning questions surrounding each division.

NBA Division Previews

Leading up to opening night on Oct. 26, sportsnet.ca NBA analyst Paul Jones gets you ready for the season by asking the burning questions surrounding each division.

Clock strikes midnight

The long wait is over, the 2010 free agency class is ready to wheel and deal.

Winner take all

The NBA's top rivalry will add another chapter to the history book as the Celtics and Lakers meet in Game 7 Thursday night.

Jones on NBA: Jackson winning ref battle

When it comes gaining an edge with the officials, there are few better than the Zen Master.

Celtics have a fix

There is one thing that Celtics must do if they hope to get back into the NBA final.

Jones' NBA final preview

NBA Insider Paul Jones looks ahead to Thursday night's opener of the Los Angeles Lakers-Boston Celtics NBA final.

53 million reasons to play

Why do international players feel the need to go home, get comfortable and then spout off?

Jones on Bosh: Domino effect

As the NBA waits to see where LeBron James will land, Chris Bosh starts to make his future plans.

Clash of the titans?

The Lakers and Celtics are on a collision course for the NBA Finals.

Recipe for kryptonite

If the Celtics are going to contain Dwight Howard, here is how they are going to have to do it.

Summer shopping

Attention all NBA general managers, please pick up a new, updated free-agent shopping list.

Playoff performances

A memorable post-season performance from Steve Nash and a disappointing one from LeBron James.

Jones on NBA: Suns doing it with 'D'

A commitment to defence has the Suns getting grimy in their post-season tear.

When the games begin

The Suns and Spurs show solidarity off the court but when the games begin...

Picking his spots

When the Lakers need him the most, Kobe Bryant shows everyone that he’s still got it.

Crunch time

It is do-or-die time in the opening round of the NBA playoffs.

Conspiracy theory

LeBron's James recent comments are fuel on the fire for playoff conspiracy theorists.

Jones on NBA: A game of numbers

History suggests that Game 5 of an NBA playoff match-up goes a long way in deciding a series.

Playoff ticket

Kevin Garnett isn't the same player anymore, but his mere presence has the Celtics up 3-0.

Playoff thoughts

Observations from the first few games of the first round of the NBA playoffs.

Raptors coroner report

So starts another summer in Raptorland, another long one, longer than fans, players, management and ownership wanted it to be.

Playoff predictions

Let the record show that at the start of the season I said it would be Boston over San Antonio.

Jones on NBA: Taking accountability

Another season without a playoff appearance leaves the Raptors with a whole lot of self-reflecting to do.

Panic and the patience

The Raps used Panic and the Patience to get a win but still need a little help or people will recall what should have been.

Jones: Give it a go

Hedo Turkoglu will try a wide variety of protective masks in an attempt to play against the Hawks.

Jones on NBA: Carrying the load

With Bosh out, and possibly Turkoglu as well, other Raptors players need to step up for this playoff race.

Jones: Tough timing

Injuries are never a good thing but the timing of Chris Bosh's facial fracture could not have been worse.

Jones: Ouch!

The loss to the Warrriors may come back to bite the Raptors in the posterior.

Jones: Villanova upset still resonates

Twenty-five years later, the biggest upset in NCAA basketball championship history still has people shaking their heads.

A Bobcat beatdown

A win over the Charlotte Bobcats was just what the Raptors and their fragile psyche needed heading into the Clippers match Wednesday.

Taking plays off equals no playoffs

The effort and execution the Raptors showed early against the Heat dissipated by the end of the game.

Clutch performers

It was another heartbreaking loss for the Toronto Raptors Friday night, this time at the hands of the Denver Nuggets.

Jones: Raptors in tough vs. Jazz

The Raptors enter yet another key stretch of games starting tonight at the Air Canada Centre as they host the Utah Jazz, who Paul Jones says represent the epitome of team basketball.

Jones on NBA: Momentum in Minny

With a tough schedule to close out the season, the Raptors could use a confidence boost against the T-Wolves.

We'll take it

Saturday's win over the Nets at least got the Raptors back in the win column.

Jones: Finally for Raps and the Madness

CB4 proves it's not the first shot, but the last one that counts and Final Four predictions.

It's not complicated

The solution to the Raptors woes likely just comes down to working harder.

The ugly truth

Coach Jay Triano says the Raptors will turn things around when their best players play better.

Warriors, come out and play

Toronto takes on Golden State Saturday night in Oakland and as it has been said many times before things can change quickly in the NBA.

They've got tendencies

The Raptors' greatest strength – its offence – has become its weakness in recent losses.

Grade A game

Tuesday's Raptors-Lakers clash was a treat for everyone who loves basketball.

Good news, bad news

The good news for the Raptors is the Lakers are slumping. The bad news: Kobe is in a foul mood about it.

Time to re-focus

It was a disappointing loss for the Raptors on Sunday against the Philadelphia 76ers on a number of fronts.

Big Apple or bust

Tracy McGrady will do his best to make LeBron come to New York. But will it be enough?

Jones on NBA: Raps caught Olympic fever

Whether it's a case of Olympics hangover or not, the Raptors have put up a couple of real stinkers in their past two contests.

Fastbreak 'gold-medal' edition

Roles are reversed on this Sunday for the Raptors and Team Canada.

Jones: Thoroughly entertaining

Yes the rest of Canada was tuned in to see how the mens’ Olympic hockey team would fair, but basketball fans in Toronto and the rest of Canada who tuned in to the Raptors – Cavaliers matchup last night were thoroughly entertained.

Jones: Turn the page

It was an ugly night in Hogtown as the Raps were unable to score on the impressive Blazers defence.

Up in the air

The Raptors welcome the Trail Blazers Wednesday night, but will either Chris Bosh or Marcus Camby be in the lineup?

Unsung heroes

A first-person view of the tireless workers in Haiti once again puts my perspective back to where it should be.

Final buzzer for a great man?

There will be a basketball game of particular interest for me Saturday night, but it's not the one you may think.

Fastbreak trade edition

It was a whirlwind on trade deadline day but none of those deals involved the Raptors as Toronto stood pat.

Jones: Remember when

It's a shame that the Naismith Cup won't be on the line when Mighty Mouse and the Grizzlies face the Raps.

All-snore weekend

I have a few suggestions to help inject some life into what have become some pretty drab all-star festivities.

DeRozan passes first step

DeMar DeRozan won the Dunk-In but he has a way to go to enter the pantheon of great dunkers.

Back to Bosh

Now that the Colangelo situation is settled, Raptors fans can return their attention back to the Bosh situation.

Is Colangelo Broadway bound?

Rumours are swirling around Raptorland about a possible move by Bryan Colangelo to New York.

Jones: Hedo doesn't want to be a masked man

Turkoglu doesn't want to wear a mask to cover his broken nose but the Raps may not give him a choice.

Jones on NBA: No defence for Raptors

The Raps were running on all cylinders offensively against Indiana but on defence the wheels left the track.

Jones on NBA: Wins for the taking

Losing Hedo Turkoglu hurts, but the combined win tally of Toronto's next four opponents is 52.

The closer

As the Toronto Raptors continue their climb up the Eastern Conference standings, coach Jay Triano is pointing to the defensive skills of Antoine Wright as a key reason for their recent success.

Back on the bandwagon

Toronto's recent string of play is more in line with what Raptors fans were expecting going into the season.

Tenacious 'D'

The Raptors are piling up the home wins and a lot of that can be credited to team defence.

Denying DeRozan

Naming all-stars is an inexact science, but leaving DeMar DeRozan out of the rookie game is beyond explanation.

Rapture-land

Beating the Lakers in a playoff-like atmosphere can be a launching pad for the Raptors in the second half of the season.

Jones: Turkoglu finally playing off

The Raptors got their revenge against Milwaukee and Turkoglu is starting to play up to his potential.

Another win bites the dust

After watching Stackhouse debut with Milwaukee Wednesday wouldn't he look good in a Raptors uniform?

Jones on NBA: Fast break

At the end of the season, the Raptors will look at the loss in Cleveland as one that got away.

A test from the best

The Raptors have been playing well, but the Cavs will present a different kind of test.

Jones on NBA: Halfway there for Raptors

The Raptors are playing themselves into playoff contention, but are they a team that can find post-season success?

Bargnani crisp in Big Apple

Bargnani put on a clinic on Italian night at Madison Square Garden despite the Spanish introduction.

Live from New York

The Raptors are in the Big Apple and the team is ready for the circus.

Stern regulations

If the commish regulates what players wear, you can bet new gambling rules aren't far behind.

Jones: The silly season

The Bynum-Bosh deal is just the first of a number of ridiculous trade rumours you will hear before the impending deadline.

Ugly wins still count

It wasn't pretty, but nobody will remember how the Raptors won in Philly at the end of the year.

History repeating?

The last time the Raptors were this hot after starting the season poorly they ended up winning their division. Hmmm…

Reputation calls

Andrea Bargnani played solid defence against the Magic, without any help from the officials.

Magic time

The Raptors are well rested as they wait to take on the Magic Wednesday night in Orlando.

Jones: Calderon getting closer

Should Jose Calderon's body respond well to Tuesday's full practice, he could suit up in Orlando.

Stay tuned

The gun-toting episode in Washington is getting a whole bunch of attention, and as it should.

Basketball 101

The Raptors have now won five in a row thanks to excellent execution.

Raptor revenge

The Raptors go for five in a row Wednesday night against the Charlotte Bobcats and the main theme will be "payback".

The big question

Jarrett Jack is playing well as the starting point guard and the Raptors have won four straight. So what happens when Jose Calderon returns?

Fast break

You never know who you'll see waiting to pick up relatives at the airport.

Not in a giving mood

The Raptors are at their best when they play the part of Scrooge at the defensive end.

Fastbreak

The schedule has turned a bit in the Raptors favour and now it's up to them to take advantage of it.

How bad are these Nets?

The Raptors got a much-needed confidence boost when the Nets stopped by the ACC on Friday.

No shortage of opinion

With the way the Raptors have been playing this year, everybody has something to say.

Tough task ahead

Canada draws a tough group for next year's world basketball championships in Turkey.

South Beach Press

Not only do the Raptors need to recover from a night off in South Beach, but an angry Heat team awaits them.

Don't panic...yet

Not a good one Friday night as the pattern continues for the Toronto Raptors.

Fast Break: Sticking it to Stan

A few more NBA coaches are on the hot seat while one of Stan Van Gundy's players refused to get up out of his.

Dissecting Donaghy

Tim Donaghy's 60 Minutes interview revealed the seedy underside of officiating in the NBA.

The Philadelphia experiment

A.I. is back in a Philly uniform and it will be interesting to see how it affects the Sixers' style.

First pitch strike

So who were those guys in the red uniforms Friday that busted from the gate to a 15-point lead?

Raptors talk it out

When the Raptors arrived at the Verizon Centre in Washington D.C. Friday, they headed into the locker room and closed the doors to start a team meeting that will hopefully address some issues following the blowout loss to the Atlanta Hawks Wednesday.

Will the Raptors get 'Jack-ed' up?

How the Raptors respond to Jarrett Jack's comments will show the team's character.

A win will do

The Raptors need just one thing to regain its confidence: a win.

Jones on NBA: Raps don't sound confident

The losses are starting to mount for the Raptors and it's not the record that is the concern.

Raptors need more toughness

It was another loss in Boston for the Raptors but the disturbing issue was the way the team lost.

Big 3 poses big problems

Chris Bosh has struggled in his career against Kevin Garnett and Rasheed Wallace; who now share the same uniform.

Fast Break: Jacked up and in

Jarrett Jack lit up his old mates as the Raptors exploded but now they have a back-to-back to contend with.

Fastbreak

Tough loss for the Raps, Van Gundy is a changed man, and woe is Washington.

Thanks, but no thanks

Don't expect to see any Vince Carter tributes Sunday at the ACC when the Raptors host the Orlando Magic.

Fast break: Story time

Lunch with a NBA legend and some airport shenanigans with a few Raptors lighten the load of a 1-3 road trip.

Fastbreak

The Raptors are really missing the presence of Reggie Evans.

Nullifying Nash

Toronto's game-plan to shutdown Captain Canada nearly earned the Raptors a rare win in the desert.

Rallying cry

The Raptors have had some great comebacks of late, but it can't happen regularly against good teams.

Jones: Banged-up Raps visit Lala Land

The Raps may be without any and all of Chris Bosh, Antoine Wright and Hedo Turkoglu when they face the Clippers.

Quick turnaround

So who were those guys playing defence in Raptor uniforms last night in the second half?

Jones: The (Raptors) defence rests

It will take some time for the Raptors defence to come together, but what is disturbing is the apparent lack of commitment.

Raising the bar

The Raptors hit San Antonio Monday night, and hopefully for fans their energy level is a lot higher.

Texas-sized challenge

The Raptors will try to make it three in a row tonight in Dallas and that would be huge for a number of reasons.

Awards and airports

I was honoured by my alma mater, but sadly it meant I had to fly coach.

An Oak like no other

In Charles Oakley, the Raptors had a player who teammates respected and opponents feared.

Fast Break: Gotta defend

A slow start is expected in Raptorland and it will continue until this team figures things out defensively.

Jones: VC not the only ex-Raptor in town

An ankle injury is keeping Vince Carter out of the Magic's lineup Sunday against the Raptors, but he's not the only ex-Raptor back in Toronto.

Fast break: According to plan

The Raptors played opportunist in its season-opener by beating the Cavs and piquing the interest of an entire country.

Wave goodbye to Bosh?

The NBA draft finally arrives, and one coach feels the stage is set for Chris Bosh to join LeBron James in Cleveland.

Raptors eye five at draft

Raptors GM Bryan Colangelo isn't holding anything close to the vest about who they may select at this year's draft.

Fast break

Looking back on where it all went wrong for Orlando and why the Raptors made a smart move in picking up the always tough Reggie Evans.

Must-win time for Magic

The Orlando Magic look to even the NBA final at a game apiece Sunday night, and if the numbers are to be believed, a Game 2 road win vs. the Los Angeles Lakers is an absolute must.

Saying goodbye

Remembering a pair of old friends that passed away too soon, NBA star Randy Smith and my high school teammate Randy Padmore.

Lakers, Magic set for tip-off

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Orlando Magic tip off the NBA final Thursday night in what is expected to be a long series.

Four wins away

Let's take a look back at how both the Lakers and Magic made the NBA finals.

Fast break: Laker edition

The numbers were in favour of the Lakers winning Game 5 and certainly now going on to take the series.

Fast Break: Conspiracy theory edition

I agree with Charles Barkley when he says the NBA has to do something about the officiating in these playoffs.

Great games

It took a while but the NBA Playoffs are really starting to heat up.

Lakers far from convincing

The Lakers won the opener but it looks like we are in for a barnburner of a series.

Fast break

It's hard to bet against Kobe and LeBron, but the Nuggets and Magic have a good shot to pull off big upsets in the NBA conference finals.

New role for Raptor swingman?

Anthony Parker may not be the offensive threat he once was, but he could still be a valuable asset to the Raptors.

They've been here before

The Celtics are experiencing deja vu but it may not be as easy to make history repeat itself in Round 2.

Instant classic

No shortage of emotion in the Bulls-Celtics series as the two teams prepare for Game 7.

Fast Break: Playoff Edition

Pierce still has it, Miller lost it and Orlando will be pushed to a Game 7 without Superman in the lineup.

Picking winners

Summer days

For a lot of teams, the holidays begin Thursday. And did Shaq really get punk'd?

Fast break

As one of my buddies put it, "the fat lady is warming up" and the Raptors will be hearing her sing shortly.

Hometown letdown

The Raptors only need to look at their record at the ACC to see why they will be out on the links when the playoffs begin.

Fast Break

A 45 per cent opponent's field goal percentage has proven to be a key number for the Toronto Raptors.

Door closed to DJ

A tip of the hat

It's not always easy being the favourite, but the Tar Heels pulled it off on Monday night.

The deal with A.I.

Allen Iverson has played hurt his entire career, so his decision to sit out in Detroit makes no sense.

Favourite Saturday of the year

It's one of the days I look forward to every year: the Saturday evening games in the NCAA Final Four.

Bargnani holds Magic key

Back in Toronto's 108-102 win over the Magic in January, Andrea Bargnani was able to score on the outside by pulling Dwight Howard away from the basket.

Nothing like it

There's no matching the NCAA tournament, especially when you've picked Villanova for your Final Four.

No compromising

McGuire's Warriors

Bucks' assistant Jom Boylan, a member of the '77 NCAA champs recalls how Marquette beat UNC in the finall.

Private matters

As long as Chris Bosh's personal problems don't affect his play on the court, we should not make judgments in the court of public opinion.

The right way

Not so fast to judge

Raptors fans need to be patient as Bryan Colangelo continues to search for the right basketball formula.

Fast Break: Upset alerts

Paul Jones has Villanova reaching the Final Four. Obama has them out after the first round. Who you going to believe? That's what we thought.

Turning over victories

The Raptors seemed content to turn over the ball repeatedly Monday vs. the Bobcats.

The Madness arrives

Between the NCAA tourney, CIS championships and playoff positioning in the NBA, it's a good time to be a hoops fan.

Good-bye to another old barn

Bargnani will be missed

It looks like the Raptors will try to snap its losing skid without the 21.3 PPG of Andrea Bargnani.

Same sweet tune for Jazz

Wading in to the MVP debate

Dwyane Wade's amazing performance Monday night is proof that he is a changed man from last season.

Talkin' all that Jazz

The Jazz visited Toronto Sunday and showed why they are working their way up the Western Conference standings.

The tag on Triano

Matrix energy a plus

Shawn Marion will give it a go on Tuesday night as the improved Rockets present a defensive challenge to the Raptors.

Texas-sized trouble

The Raptors will try to win tonight in a place where they have had difficulty of late.

Big guys don't shrink

That was some show put on in Phoenix last night by the Big Diesel and it made me reflect on something one of my former coaches said.

Euckerism rings true

The Raps will see the 'Shaqtus' up close on Friday, where Jonesy sits for it is another matter.

Point-five and 837

If not for a clutch three from an unsuspecting suspect, the Raptors three-point streak might have ended almost three years ago.

Keeping up with Matrix

The Raptors need to catch up with Marion instead of the other way around.

Bosh back in for Raptors

While Chris Bosh returns to the lineup after a five-game layoff, newest Raptor Patrick O’Bryant will have to wait to make his debut.

Setting the table

Learning curve

It will take some time for Shawn Marion to settle in with the Raptors.

Back in business

After a short break, our basketball blogger is back in action.

Colangelo pulls the trigger

Unsung hero

Roko Ukic grabbed the spotlight against the Spurs but Jermaine O'Neal did the dirty work in the Raps win.

Kobe or LeBron?

Star search

The Raps (Bosh) and Hornets (Paul) will be missing their respective star Chris tonight so someone else will need to shine for the clubs.

Kapono knows treys

If you can name the two players to win three-straight three-ball contests at the all-star game then Alex Trebek is on Line 2.

Statement time

Heading in to a tough stretch of games the Toronto Raptors need Chris Bosh to be focused.

Working his magic

In these eyes, Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy is a front-runner for the NBA’s coach of the year.

Charlie V's return

Charlie V got his revenge upon his return to Toronto on Friday night.

Zo deserves Hall call

Tale of two streaks

Between a three-game win streak and Jose Calderon's free-throw run, things are looking up for the Raptors.

Fast break: Playoff chase

With a tough stretch of games coming up, the Raptors need to head into the weekend on a winning note.

Boogie nights

The value of a veteran player and the lessons he disseminates to younger players, and rookies in particular, is indispensible.

Back at full strength

The game in Chicago will be a true test for the Raptors, who will finally play at full strength.

Thoughts from Motown

Allen Iverson keeps improving, while Roko Ukic provides an NBA history lesson.

O'Neal back, but no Jose

Jermaine O'Neal returns to the scene of the crime in Detroit, but will it be enough to stop a Palace streak?

Built for April

Fast Break: Commander in Chief speaks

Chris Bosh speaks up about the woeful Raps play and another leader gets ready to take charge.

Fast break on King day

Monday is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the United States and there is more of a connection to basketball than just afternoon games and players' refelctions.

Fast break into Indy

Don't listen to Jermaine O'Neal; It's always personal when you play your former team.

For your consideration

Fast Break: Take it to KG

Final thought on the loss to Boston is Chris Bosh needs to get physical when facing Kevin Garnett.

Fast Break: Celtics rematch

It doesn't get easier for the Raps as they head to Boston for the back-to-back; Shaq re-names himself.

Fast break: No love

Even if the Raps beat the Celtics Sunday, the fans won't be satisfied.

Tough to hold the Mayo

Fast break: Rivalry lost

Friday's game would have been something special for Canadians if not for the Grizzlies picking up and moving to Memphis.

Fast break: A big dilemna

With the recent improvement in Andrea Bargnani's play, the Raptors will have to decide how to fit all the pieces when Jermaine O'Neal returns.

Fast break: Old Milwaukee

A stop in Milwaukee brings back memories of the good, old days when Lew Alcindor was patrolling the paint.

Back to Basics

Fast break: Raps roll past Rockets

It was the Raps day as they came to play and the real Rockets team stayed away.

Fast Break: Top 5

A little break from the hardcourt to give you my Top 5 sporting moments for 2008.

Fast Break: In the Club

Once you're in the NBA club, you're in the club.

Fast Break: Beware the Warriors

It's playground basketball as the Raptors face the run-and-gun Warriors.

Fast break from Portland

Toronto's loss in Portland had all the signs of a classic back-to-back scenario.

O'Neal arrives

The season-high 36 points from Jermaine O'Neal on Boxing Day is a sign that the big man is finally feeling comfortable.

No need to panic

If GM Bryan Colangelo was in panic mode regarding the Raptors, he would have already traded Chris Bosh.

On a collision course

Fast Break: Welcome Jawai

Nathan Jawai's looking good in practice although it remains to be seen how he will fair in an actual game.

Psyched out in Toronto

Maybe it's time for the Raptors to hire a full-time sports psychologist.

Slowing down The Jet

On Wednesday the Raptors face a double-whammy in the Mavs, a Top 10 scoring team that can also rebound.

Teaching desire

If rebounding is all about desire does that mean the Raptors have none?

Fast break

Despite a breakdown in the Raptors pre-game plans, their 'D' didn't break down against the Nets.

Fast Break

Despite his new role as Raptors head coach, Jay Triano has tried to keep up certain routines.

Return of T.J.

Jones: Fast break

As the Raptors prepare for an unbeaten-at-home Cleveland Cavaliers team, Bryan Colangelo is preparing for December 15.

Fast Break

The Raptors can take some positives from the heartbreaking loss to the Blazers.

The bottom line

Fast Break

Jay Triano has come a long way from playing on the perimeter in Niagara Falls but on Friday in Utah the Raptors new coach will showcase everything he has learned.

Fast Break

The Raptors blowout loss in Denver Tuesday night brought back some expansion-era memories and raised some tough questions.

Wings and a prayer

Fast Break

Jermaine O'Neal isn't feeling 100 per cent but he's going to give it a go for the Raptors Tuesday night vs. the Nuggets.

Fast break in L.A.

Paul Jones is back at the scene where Kobe Bryant had that magical 81-point night with the Raptors in town.

Adjusting to Atlanta

There has been much talk of the Raptors opponent on Friday, the Atlanta Hawks, and how it laid a beat down on Toronto in Atlanta during the last meeting.

Fast break: Selfish Starbury

Knicks guard Stephon Marbury has isolated himself from the entire city of New York. Take a bow (or a seat).

Fast break

Imagine if the Raps still had TJ, and how much cash the 2010 free agent class may command.

Fast Break: Courting LeBron

LeBron James won't be a free agent until summer 2010, but the New York Knicks courtship of King James has already begun.

Déjà vu for Raps?

Fast Break: Green Machine

The Boston Celtics showed the Raptors why they are the world champions Sunday.

Fast break

To foul or not to foul? That is the question facing NBA coaches.

Fast Break

Jermaine O'Neal gets some feedback from a former coach and Billy Hoyle makes it rain at the Hoopdome.

Fast Break

Paul Jones gives his court-side perspective of the Raptors loss to Orlando.

Fast break

Raptors better prepared for a trip to Orlando while Shaq gets no slack from officials.

Patience pays off

About the ring

'A serious contender'

Stalking the Tiger

Sportnet.ca's basketball analyst takes a time-out from hoops to hit the links with Lefty and Tiger.

An odious rivalry

Rivalry renewed

Two's a crowd

Looking back, looking ahead

Cliché time in Orlando

Pull out all the clichés you like now if you're a Raptor fan because they all apply as Toronto will be fighting for its playoff life here in Orlando tonight.

Chess match

Jonesy on the road

A member of the Chicago Bulls has some words of wisdom for the playoff-bound Toronto Raptors.

Raptors in six

Kobe is MVP, next ...

Loud and proud at the ACC

25 years later

The Loss City

Advance billing

The Forgotten Man

Synonymous with excitement

Jonesy on the road

The traveling road show continues in the California capital and right now the Toronto Raptors might be feeling like the Washington Generals. It was ugly Friday night in Denver, no other way to put it. The Nuggets ran the Raptors off the court and it was down-right embarrassing at some points in the game.

The defence rests

The case for Bryant

Jonesy on the road

Oh, the back-to-back thing is happening. I know there are some people out there that ask "So what's the big deal?" But as I have always said I'm a broadcaster and I'm tired. Never mind having chased the Lakers around the court less than 24 hours ago and then starting to size up the highest scoring team in the league in Golden State.

Time to Pay the Bill

Beat on the boards

East turn to deal

The Power of Diesel

Lakers take a step forward

Ford tough

Mid-season hardware

Blazin' hot Draft

Breaking the top tier

Waiting on Ford

Still time for Bargnani

Toronto's other team

Jones: Toronto's other team

Easy being Green

Honouring The Pearl

A true innovator has his number retired at the Verizon Center.

Plenty of time

The beat goes on

Looking for the right mix

How the other side lives

Vancouver proved to be the place to be as I had the pleasure of being part of the third annual Steve Nash Charity Classic.

The other side, Part II

The day the game changed

Thanks to Tim Donaghy, and the allegations of his officiating influencing the outcome of NBA games, every call is in question.