Captain Morgan and Suns

I'm back, for now.

In Yankee Land, Johan is now with the Mets. I'll say this much, it's better than giving up Hughes, Wang, Chamberlain, Kennedy or letting him get to the Mets. Other than a total steal of a trade, this might have been the best-case scenario (now out of the league).

Morgan Ensberg has been signed to what is likely a minor-league deal with an out clause if he doesn't make the big league roster (like Ron Villone). He'll play third base, DH, and first base. There's no risk, with some upside, so I like this trade. He hit .230, with 12 homers, 47 runs, and 39 RBI, last year for the Astros and Padres. His best year came in 2005, when he was an All-Star, Silver Slugger, and 4th-place MVP finisher, hitting .283, 36 home runs, 86 runs, and 101 RBI.


SUNS:
Rumor has it that Damon Stoudamire (a target for backup point guard) will instead sign with the Spurs - who happen to be the Suns opponent tonight.
Suns are still "not in rhythm" yet, but with the second-best record in the NBA, at 33-13, they seem good enough to me.

Preview:
The Suns won last game to the tune of 100-95. Big performances came from Tim Duncan (36 points, 17 rebounds) and Grant Hill (22 points, 7 rebounds). Tony Parker was injured last game, but is injured this game as well.

Tonight's 10:30 game will be a mix of Spurs defense and Suns offense.
Predictions:

Suns win 106-79.

Duncan is held to "only" 21 points and 12 rebounds.
Michael Finley will be his biggest "help" with 14 points.

Amare will run wild with 34 points, 16 rebounds, and 4 blocks - 2 on Duncan.
Nash and Marion will post 15-15 double-doubles in the obvious categories.
Grant Hill will be tried out in Manu's role (starter playing off the bench) and will produce Manu-like numbers - 25 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists. Why?
Boris Diaw is a new starter - 23 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists.

GO SUNS.