Tuesday, March 31, 2015

CLOWNEY IS CURED AND CAPABLE

After spending the majority of the 2014 NFL Season on the sidelines, second year defensive end/ outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney is expected to be ready to go when spring training begins for the Houston Texans in May. Clowney entered his rookie season floating off the momentum of his timeless collegiate highlight in which he pummeled former Michigan running back Vincent Smith for a 8 yard loss during the 2013 Outback Bowl game in which his South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the Wolverines. THE BIRTH LLC encourages you to experience (or relive) the extraordinary moment below by watching the supplied visual (via. YouTube). Rest assured once Clowney regains his health that NFL fans will receive the pleasure of watching him bruise quarterbacks, running backs, tight ends and wide receivers in 2015.

Clowney participated in only four 2014 regular season contest for the Houston Texans. The disappointed fans mourned his absence as the Texans went on to miss the NFL Playoffs for a consecutive season, producing just a 9-7 record in 2014. Over shined by the Indianapolis Colts and their Luck of Andrew, the Texans occupy a expected runner up seeding in the AFC South and will be looking to reconcile themselves as head honcho in the 2015 NFL Season. The stellar J.J Watt was denied his well deserved MVP award last year at the NFL Honors but undeniably arrives in the face of the opponent teams Quarterback for the bear hug every single game. After rendering 20.5 sacks last year it's interesting to see how he meshes up with the return of Clowney. Let's not fail to mention the arrival of all-pro defensive tackle Vince Wilfork who ravishes offensive linemen as well. Unless the Colts can utilize Frank Gore to improve what has been a suspect rushing offense these last couple of  years, the Luck may run out for the prone to pass Indianapolis offense.

While the Texans are stacked on defense they have failed to produce a quality passing game, a hindrance that comes to be treacherous in the ladder part of the season. For now their hope will be placed on newly acquired quarterback Brian Hoyer from the Cleveland Browns. Though Hoyer is a worthy applicant for the conservative agenda, the Texans will have to prove themselves capable on the offensive side in order to be Super Bowl caliber. In 2015 they'll bring the revised roster to the field with ideas of regaining dominance in the AFC South.

For more information regarding this and other NFL off-season moves visit THE BIRTH LLC and NFL websites.







Monday, March 30, 2015

ISAIAH 53 KJV

53 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?
For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
10 Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.
11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Thursday, March 26, 2015

SIXTEEN IS SWEET BUT EIGHT IS ELITE

With March Madness well under way let's briefly overview what you may have missed over the weekend. Thus far, there have not been many extreme upsets but this weekend it just may get a little sticky. The notorious "Sweet 16" begins this Thursday March, 26th and will play out through Sunday to set the stage for the "Elite 8" and then the "Final Four." This round of the tournament features the 16 teams who were able to register two wins last week and push their teams beyond the initiation. Showcase of the "Sweet 16" & "Elite 8"will be televised strictly on two marquee networks : CBS & TBS. Stay updated with your favorites as they match-up for another intensifying weekend full of collegiate competitors.

The question still remains, will the undefeated Kentucky Wildcats sustain? They'll match up against the #5 West Virginia Mountaineers tonight at 9:45 p.m. E.T in the Sweet 16 where they have not lost the last four seasons. They blasted through both Hampton and Cincinnati last weekend with a totaled +36 point advantage. Most bidders have Kentucky headed straight to the NCAA Championship and for obvious reasons. #3 Oklahoma and  #7 Michigan State will face off tomorrow night at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, NY. This match-up is already being acclaimed as the must see of the weekend at least by THE BIRTH LLC. The Tom Izzo era continues with yet another Sweet 16 appearance for the Michigan State Spartans who will be looking to make the upset.

Duke, Wisconsin, Arizona, Gonzaga, UCLA and others all remain and have outlasted the first two rounds of the Tournament. Within this collective NCAA review, never mind making mention of each and every team that is scheduled to appear this weekend but let each institution hold responsibility for proving itself  honorable mention on the Hardwood. As always, be looking for some big upsets, blowouts and highlights as Turner Sports Interactive continues to provide the world with captivating collegiate sports and the well-renowned NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament in which sports fans have come to love. Review the 2015 NCAA Basketball tournament bracket at this link.

 THE BIRTH LLC supports Turner Sports Interactive and the NCAA.






COWBOYS HARVEST WITH HARDY

Former Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy was endowed with a healthy contract from the Dallas Cowboys last week. The one year deal sizes up to a potential $13 million if he honors the clauses within the terms of the contract. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones addressed the investment on Hardy as a short-term evaluation. Hardy's term with Dallas will be heavily dependent on his behavioral issues and production after missing the entire 2014 season. Hardy will have an opportunity to redeem himself after salvaging his public image with the shame of a domestic violence case that went viral.

Not only Ray Rice committed transgression in  the category of domestic abuse, new Chicago Bears signee  Ray McDonald and Greg Hardy also violated the code of conduct policies not only of the National Football League but of United States federal law. In July of 2014, Hardy reportedly physically abused his ex-girlfriend Nicole Holder. For this, Hardy received a one year suspension from the NFL and did not participate in any organization activity in 2014. Though Hardy was eventually acquitted these charges in a second-trial (only Jesus knows how), the scrutiny now placed on Hardy's distasteful act will exceed that of his quality in regards to production. Forgiveness was granted to Hardy and he will now be allowed to re-establish his career in the NFL with a new team.

In 2013, the Carolina Panthers won the NFC South division with a record of 12-4 leading the league in defensive sacks. Hardy was a heavy contribution to the Panthers defensive before his suspension with 15 season sacks and a Pro Bowl appearance that year. Dallas will gladly integrate Hardy into the harvest of a evolving Cowboys team who finished the 2014 season with a 12-4 record and a controversial post-season defeat to the Green Bay Packers. This addition could be one that allows them to thrust their way back into top tier territory, like the Cowboys of the 90's who won 3 Lombardi trophies.

For more information regarding this and other NFL off-season moves visit THE BIRTH LLC and NFL websites.




Sunday, March 22, 2015

DAME DASH DEMANDS EQUITY

Last week, a Breakfast Club Interview with former Roca-fella Records CEO Damon Dash surfaced unto media airwaves. Critical acclaim regarding the content of what Dash had to say offended many while it enlightened others. Dash simply scrutinized the ideological limitations of being an employee versus the longevity of entrepreneurship. Dj Envy was obviously displeased. He began to evaluate himself and the position he currently occupies within HOT 105.1. After several verbal scorns, Dash pleaded a solid argument, what is the successive benefit of working for companies when you can found and maintain your own?

THE BIRTH LLC supports The Breakfast Club and entrepreneurship.



















Thursday, March 19, 2015

WHEN THERE IS MADNESS IT'S MARCH

College Basketball invigorates the NCAA with its annual division 1 March Madness Basketball tournament set to begin March 19th 2015. The tournament features 64 of the top college teams in the nation who play according to seeding in a single game elimination tourney to see who will be crowned national champion in April. A plethora of television networks will combine to showcase over 32 games including; CBS, TNT, TBS & TRUTV. Rely on your well-renowned sports networks (ESPN, FSN, and CBS SPORTS NETWORK) and THE BIRTH LLC to supply you with continuous updates regarding the progression of the tournament.

There have been many highlights within the 2014 College Basketball season. The Kentucky Wildcats enter the Tournament after registering not a single regular season loss with their remarkable 34-0 record. Though they gave out a plethora of losses to SEC opponents, the NCAA Tournament has been notorious for big upsets and Kentucky will be tested throughout to see if they have the strength to endure. The Wisconsin Badgers bring their 31-3 team record to the court after defeating Michigan State this weekend for the Big Ten Conference title. Once in rhythm the Badgers have shown to be quite a headache for defenses who struggle to seize their ability to score by sharing the rock. Countless other heavyweight universities like Gonzaga, Arizona, Michigan St., Duke and more will bring it to the hardwood looking to make a statement and raise the prestige of their beloved institutions.

The games will begin at 12:15 p.m. E.T today on CBS with #2 seeded Kansas hosting #15 seeded New Mexico St live from the Century Link Center in Omaha, Nebraska. Review the 2015 NCAA Basketball tournament bracket at this link. It's time for March Madness.

 THE BIRTH LLC supports Turner Sports Interactive and the NCAA.











Tuesday, March 17, 2015

DOLLARS FOR DEFENDERS

Certainly NFL franchises are looking to enhance their player personnel this off-season. In an NFL that has had consecutive seasons of top tier defensive teams winning the Super Bowl, acquiring quality players on defense has become even more vital. Last year the New England Patriots signed defensive players Brandon Browner and Darelle Revis to help them in their route to the Lombardi trophy at Super Bowl XLIX. As free agency continues, teams are signing top flight defenders to substantial deals quite notable.

New England let both defensive tackle Vince Wilfork (age 33) and defensive back Darelle Revis (age 29) play the free agent market after winning Super Bowl XLIX. Not surprisingly, both players have signed new contracts with new teams. Vince Wilfork has inked a two year $9 million contract with the Houston Texans while Revis returned to the New York Jets signing for a five year $70 million contract. Wilfork registered 53 tackles (6 in playoffs) last season playing a key part in New England's success. He'll join superstar J.J Watt on the Texans defensive front that may rendered their first AFC South divisional title since 2011. If the Texans can now get a quarterback to accompany Arian Foster they can be a force to reckon with in the AFC. Revis produced 47 tackles and two interceptions of his own in 2014. He'll return to New York where he established his NFL career and the legacy of "Revis Island." Hopefully Revis can move a pass defense ranked 14th last year in opponents pass yards into a top ten competitor. Defensive Head Coach Todd Bowles will surely utilize both Revis and Antonio Cromartie to fulfill the schemes organized to disrupt the offensive success of opponents in the 2015 NFL season.

Cleveland ended their 2014 NFL season with a 7-9 record. Though NFL analyst can intelligently suggest that their issues were not particularly on the defensive side of the ball, acquiring personnel to better polish the defense can play as a surety. NFL media is reporting that former Green Bay Packers defensive back Tramon Williams has signed with the Cleveland Browns on a three year $21 million contract. Williams won Super Bowl XLV with the Green Bay Packers in 2010 and will gladly play co-op will all pro Joe Haden on defense. Browns also signed defensive tackle Randy Starks on a two year $8 million contract. Starks will involve himself with a Browns defense that rank 32nd in rush defense last season a clear contribute to their late season dismantle after starting 6-4 in 2014. These key signings may help to their turn around in the 2015 season but only time will tell.

 For more information regarding this and other NFL off-season moves visit THE BIRTH LLC and NFL websites.





Monday, March 16, 2015

NBA ON ESPN

The NBA continues on ESPN tonight with a double-header. LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers will head to south beach to take on Dwayne Wade and the Miami Heat. In the second game Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors will host Jordan Clarkson and the Los Angeles Lakers. Be sure to tune in tonight starting at 8:00 p.m. E.T on ESPN.

Cleveland has won three times more than they have lost since January. They continue to streak their way to the top of the NBA Eastern Conference where they've slowly but surely become the fan and analytic favorite going forward. Their 43-25 season record is a fruit we can judge in righteousness, barring a late season collapse that is highly unlikely. The tandem of Kyrie Irving and LeBron James has turned itself into the demise of all opponents standing in the way. The Miami Heat may use the resentment built towards LeBron's departure during the off-season to defend American Airlines Arena tonight but the advantage there of does not put the Heat in favor. Miami's 29-36 record still allows them a 9th seeding in the Eastern conference as they look to push themselves into the playoff picture. They'll be looking to prevent another set-back against a conference opponent having to intent of slowing down.

It may get ugly at Oracle Arena tonight if the Lakers cannot summon enough offense to contend with the splash brothers. Golden State has lost only two home games this season, an astonishing reality with fewer than 30 games remaining on the schedule. The Los Angeles Lakers come to town with an insurmountable 17-48 record and though they've competed in many of contest, they will be looking at the drawing board this off-season. Lakers administration will use these conclusive games of the 2014 NBA Season to see what players to retain going forward and which to appoint to the exit. Hopefully the Lakers can exit Oracle Arena tonight not being revoked of their dignity. THE BIRTH LLC supports the NBA.























CAVALIERS @ HEAT 8:00 p.m. E.T on ESPN


















LAKERS @ WARRIORS 10:30 p.m. E.T on ESPN



BUSH SIGNS WITH NINERS

After a rather lack luster showing in the 2014 NFL Season, HB Reggie Bush found himself cut from the Detroit Lions and without employment. His dismissal from Detroit occurred a week before the free agent tag deadline, two weeks before free agency began and ultimately at an untimely part of the off-season. Bush played only 11 games last season giving his replacement Joique Bell optimal opportunity to gain favor with coaching personnel. The Lions seeking to allow cap space to re-sign Ndamukong Suh (now signed with the Miami Dolphins), found Bush and his $5 million salary quite disposable. The Super Bowl XLIV champion was now unemployed for the third time since 2010 when he left the New Orleans Saints, a blemish to a career that began with hall of fame surmising.

Fortunately, the San Francisco 49ers have requested for Mr. Bush to service their organization at running-back for the 2015 NFL Season. After losing Frank Gore (San Francisco 49ers all time leading rusher) to the Indianapolis Colts in free agency, the Niners have now landed another quality running back to play along side second year running-back Carlos Hyde. Hyde played quite incredibly in his rookie season averaging around 4.0 yards a carry in 2014. In 2015, Hyde will have a increased work load. The Niners are hoping that the addition of Bush can play as an aid to Hyde's fatigue down the stretch of a long season. Bush will answer to the doubts of his durability in a NFC West division full of hard hitting defenses.

After three consecutive appearances in the NFC Championship game, San Francisco failed to make the post-season ending last season with a mediocre 8-8 record. The disappointing 2014 49ers season boiled over into the offseason as well. Not only did the lose their franchise running-back and head coach Jim Harbaugh, they also lost all-pro linebacker Patrick Willis to retirement. Willis encountered a season ending foot injury in November of 2014 and its lingering pain was inhibiting him from being as effective as he once was in years prior. Though the Niners have signed Torrey Smith and Reggie Bush, there is vagueness in regards to where their leadership will come from on and off the field. The lack of team chemistry could play a significant role to an already backsliding organization. It'll be interesting to see if they can turn it around in 2015. For more information regarding this and other NFL off-season moves visit THE BIRTH LLC and NFL websites.




Friday, March 13, 2015

DRINK GREEN 4 LIFE

Founded and administered by Ife Johari, Drink Green is a smoothie bar located just north of Grand River Ave on Lahser Rd. in Detroit, Michigan. Offering smoothies, smoothie kits and other treats, Drink Green brings a healthy refreshing taste to customers every time. The nutritional benefits are assured through a list of original smoothie combinations that both delight the tongue and tummy. THE BIRTH LLC  gladly recommends Drink Green to those in the Detroit metro area. Be sure to visit their company website at drinkgreen4life.com and make a visit whenever you're in the neighborhood.

7337 Lahser Rd. in 
Detroit, Michigan.
off Grand River Ave.
 phone: 313.744.2944


BROTHERLY LOVE FOR DEMARCO MURRAY

After ridding their roster of its 2014 identity, the Philadelphia Eagles signed former Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray to a $42 Million 5 year contract. DeMarco Murray's request for pay increase was ignored by the Dallas Cowboys who decided that superstar wide receiver Dez Bryant was the better option for the franchise. Though one could rebuttal, Dez Bryant being the more reliable and consistent player was awarded in precedence over Murray with the tag and is expected to make $12.8 million in salary in 2015. Obviously, Murray felt rejected and sought multiple options to maximize potential income for his talents. His signing with the Eagles materialized yesterday as he and his agent arrived in Philadelphia yesterday to address the public.

Today NFL reporters are relaying that Dallas will sign former Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden with a two-year $5.85 million contract to replace Murray. McFadden often hindered by a suspect offensive line and poor quarterback play, will gladly integrate into a run system with the amenities of a great offensive line (something Murray won't have in Philadelphia). On the flip side the Eagles, after recently signing former San Diego Chargers injury prone Ryan Matthews, will be looking to fill some defensive positions. The interesting similarity between these two teams is their belief in the system over the chemistry of the player collaborative. Though Murray was the league leading rusher in the NFL last season, his self-righteous pretension will be quickly humbled by the reality that the offensive line now blocking for him isn't as stellar as the one he abandoned in Dallas. It is not to be undermined that the more swift and shifty former Eagles running backs (LeSean McCoy & Darren Sproles) often made defenders miss to gain yardage versus having clear holes to run like Murray. This may be a shortcoming in Murray's experience as tote man for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Dez Bryant expressed his opinion on Murray's move to Philly via twitter, wishing him the best and warning him of the possible consequences that may result from his impulsive signing. Frank Gore grew of reluctant of Philadelphia after being offered a sizable amount because he received reproof from All-pro running LeSean McCoy regarding the player relationship with Chip Kelly. So, what was so different for Murray? Through desire Murray may have signed himself into a situation without the discretion that others applied. The $40 million contract was the delight of his calling with Philly and with brotherly love Eagles fans shall gladly accept the former Cowboys running back. For more information regarding this and other NFL off-season moves visit THE BIRTH LLC and NFL websites.





KINGSHIP FOR KYRIE

Last night on TNT, in the 2nd game of a NBA doubleheader, the Cleveland Cavs visited the AT&T Arena to take on the NBA defending champion San Antonio Spurs. The game had playoff implications written all over it as both teams competed in a back and forth contest that needed an overtime period to finalize. The Cleveland Cavs came out victorious thanks to an extraordinary performance by guard Kyrie Irving who registered a career high 57 points. Shooting 20-32 from the field, Irving's fantastic output included a huge game tying 3-point basket at the end of regulation. In the overtime period the Cavs put the stamp on their miraculous effort pulling out the win by the score of 128-125. They now hold sole position of 2nd place in the NBA Eastern Conference.

During the 2014 NBA off-season, headlines raved about NBA superstar LeBron James returning to Cleveland. Though this was the headlining hype, with Kyrie underdeveloped and uncertainty at the head coach position, critics held doubtful surmising about just how successful the Cavaliers would be in 2014.Well contrarily, the 2014 Cavalier season has entailed Irving showcasing both talent and vitality to the team’s success. How timely of him to produce this type of offensive game against an elite western conference power. Irving scorched veteran Tony Parker all night long giving clear indication that his goals exceed just that of making a few ESPN sports center top play(s) countdowns. Irving shot over 60% from the field and 100% from behind the arch going 7-7 from 3 and after last night, Kyrie may have just thrust himself into the argument around who's the best point guard in the NBA. The only question now is if he's ready for the post-season.






Thursday, March 12, 2015

WHAT'S YOUR OFFER

NFL teams continue to sort through optional situations regarding current personnel and incentives towards free agent prospects. Many teams approach free agency with the win now mindset while others approach free agency with the conserve and build mindset. The win now approach to free agency is when a franchise exhaust much of its salary cap to acquire veteran players at the end of their careers to increase the possibility of immediate success. The Broncos used this approach last off-season when they signed 32 year old defensive end Demarcus Ware to a $30 million contract. This year they'll lose young agile tight end Julius Thomas who plans to sign with the Jacksonville Jaguars for $46.5 million. The San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears also impulsive in regards to the win-now approach signing their quarterbacks to $100 million contracts in before the 2014 season. That impulse in return cost them cap space and showed to be bad investments by the unimpressive production for both offensive leaders who failed to lead their teams to a playoff berth in 2014. The conserve and build approach is revolved about utilizing the salary budget in a way that benefits the team not just now but in the long run. Most Super Bowl winning teams (New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, and Seattle Seahawks) use this approach in free agency and it has proven to be quite effective. Let's review some deals that materialized yesterday and evaluate both the short and long term implications team administrates will be faced with.



















Bring in the old and out with the new. The Detroit Lions refused to sign Ndamukong Suh for $19 million. Though Suh is still at the prime of his career, the discretion applied to the negotiable contract was rather intelligent.  The Lions loss a superstar none the less but they retained a sizable amount of cap space that will be used to acquire more players. Yesterday the Detroit Lions traded away two 2015 draft picks (4th & 5th round) for Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata. The contract expense amounts to half that of what Suh was requesting and the production will more than likely be identical. On the flip side of the coin the Baltimore Ravens using the conserve and build approach let Ngata go after 9 years of proven ability. Baltimore plans to plug youngsters Brandon Williams and Timmy Jernigan (2nd year player out of Florida State) into their defensive front and develop them into all-pro essentials. The franchise believes they can build these players into dominant defenders and utilize the remaining salary to import players from the upcoming draft and conserve finance for up and coming players they may need to compensate after following seasons. The Colts went forth and signed HB Frank Gore (Age 31), OLB Trent Cole (Age 32) and WR Andre Johnson as well. These acquisitions though blissful, will obliviously exhaust the salary cap and complicate the finances for the following season. There is much to lose and gain during the free agency period. Being insensitive to the long and short term effects of impulsion can lead an organization into consecutive years of relapse. The experienced of NFL teams understand its significance and follows through by applying discretion.



New Orleans Saints tight-end Jimmy Graham was traded to the Seattle Seahawks for center Max Under, a trade that included upcoming draft picks and evens across the board putting both teams in a position to enhance and advance. The Philadelphia Eagles traded away Nick Foles for St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford in yet another blur in regards to the bird eye view of the Eagles organization going forward. After the Patriots, using the conserve and build approach, agreed not to expound cap space on Darelle Revis, Revis returned to the Jets on a collective $70 million  5 year deal. Although Demarco Murray led the league in rushing during the 2014 season, the Dallas decided not to endow the 27 year old running back with the franchise tag. Murray still unsigned, is planning to meet with the Philadelphia Eagles this week as he looks to obtain the most expedient deal for his talents. Free agency has been very interesting this off-season stay updated here at THE BIRTH LLC as we seek to provide you with impact news regarding NFL activity. Be sure to visit the NFL website and read Conor Orr's story on some of the biggest free agency signings that took place so far in 2015..



Tuesday, March 10, 2015

FAN NIGHT ON NBA TV

Weekly (every Tuesday night), throughout the NBA Season, the NBA TV network allows fans to select which game will air by voting from a list of match-ups via the NBA site (NBA.com).  THE BIRTH LLC encourages NBA fans to access this social friendly interactive and take advantage of being able to choose the game most appealing.  Tonight the fans have selected for the Dallas Mavericks as they host of the Cleveland Cavaliers at American Airlines Arena. This NBA match-up is scheduled to air tonight at 8:30 p.m. E.T on NBA TV.

The Dallas Mavericks come off a 100 - 93 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers Sunday nights improving their NBA record to 41-24. The Mavs currently hold 6th seed in the stingy western conference where teams need to win nearly 60% of their games to be even in the playoff picture. The return of Chandler Parsons will clearly aid to their objective of making a substantial playoff run. Parsons missed seven games with an ankle injury Sunday night and was able to produce 11 points on 5-11 shooting from the field. His teammate Monte Ellis went off for 31 points and shot 50% from the field to rally the Mavs to an expected win over the struggling Lakers. After a night of rest they'll be looking to head home to American Airlines Arena and make a statement against the eastern conference contender Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Cavaliers produced a few highlights in their latest match-up win over the Phoenix Suns Saturday night at the Quicken Loans Arena. LeBron James finished the game with just 17 points and 8 assist, a clear contribution to the 10 point edge the Cavaliers were able to render. With both the Chicago Bulls and Toronto Raptors in a late season slump, the Cavaliers are hoping to seize 2nd place in the Eastern Conference. They'll face an offensive powerhouse in Dallas tonight and will need to show a bit of defensive intensity to pull this win out on the road. Tune in tonight at 8:30 p.m. E.T on NBA TV to see who will prevail. THE BIRTH LLC Supports the NBA.