BSN's NBA Preview Teaser

Eastern Conference bottom 3

by Sam Persanyi (@SamPersanyi)

      

15.  Orlando Magic

        Last season: 20-62

2013 projection: 20-62

The Magic are in full rebuilding mode as this team lacks any star talent and with that comes a lack of depth.  A lineup that headlines Aaron Afflalo as its number one option led the Magic to one of the worst records in the NBA.  They made their first move by drafting the athletically talented guard Victor Oladipo with the second pick in the draft as they look to build this lineup.  Unfortunately for them, their struggles seem as though they will continue through this season.  The bright point for them is that the 2014 draft class looks to be one of the most talented draft classes in a while.  A rebuilding team such as Orlando can make big moves in the rebuilding process in a draft like this next year’s one.  However, for this season, the Magic’s outlook is bleak.

Player to Watch: Victor Oladipo – This kid was a human highlight reel while at Indiana.  His game improved with every year that passed; his work ethic and athletic ability make some believe that his ceiling is as high as he makes it.  While the Magic struggle, look for him to be all over the highlight reels everywhere.

     14.  Charlotte Bobcats

Last season: 21-61

2013 projection: 35-47

Among the worst teams in the league the Bobcats have made some additions this offseason to start to build a contender.  If you take away the fact that their owner, Michael Jordan, could come on and be one of the Bobcats best players, their outlook can only go up from where they have been in the last few seasons.  This team is headlined by new addition, center Al Jefferson.  In an effort to sure up the front court, the Bobcats selected athletic big man Cody Zeller.  While their starting lineup on paper looks to be serviceable, they lack depth at almost every position.  This team is starting to make moves in the right direction, but are still a few years of being where they want to be.  Jefferson along with Kemba Walker are the main proven scoring options on this team, while Kidd-Gilchrist is defensive minded. He needs to improve as a scorer to give this team options on that end of the floor. While they will improve from one of the league’s worst records, the improvement won’t be as great as many fans are hoping for.

Player to Watch: Cody Zeller – One of the rookies who impressed in the summer league, look for Zeller to be in talks of rookie of the year.  Due to his size, versatile talent, and athleticism, he will be hard for opposing teams to match up with. 

    

  13.  Philadelphia 76ers

Last season: 34-48

2013 projection: 26-56

The 76ers have had a busy offseason as they look to start new and build a contender.  One of their biggest offseason moves was on draft night when they traded point guard Jrue Holiday to the newly-named New Orleans Pelicans for their first round draft pick, which they used on former Kentucky center Nerlens Noel.  The move for Noel was thought by some to be a reach due to his knee problems.  However, the Sixers must love his upside as there is no time table for his return.  Noel will not likely make a huge impact this season as he rehabs his knee.  On draft night they also drafted Holiday’s replacement and who they hope to be their floor general for years to come in former Syracuse point guard Michael Carter-Williams.  This team is a few years out of being relevant as they are one of the front runners for the Andrew Wiggins sweepstakes that will be next year’s draft.  They do have a new head coach in Brett Brown and return some of their starters in Turner, Young, and Hawes.  I doesn’t look like it will matter much as most of this roster is unproven.

Player to Watch: Evan Turner – Evan Turner has been quiet in the NBA for his first few years.  His production has gradually gotten better each year.  With Jrue Holiday gone, not only will Turner be asked to take over some of the ball handling responsibilities as he played point forward in college, but he will also likely be the number one option in terms of offense.  Look for Turner to have a better year as his team struggles.

   

Western Conference bottom 3

by Sean O'Brien (@SeanNeutron)

 

     15. Phoenix Suns  

Last season: 25-57

2013 projection: 22-62

If the Kings have hope, the Suns have “nope”. As in a chance at a respectable season? Nope. They lost Scola to the Pacers, but even before that this team was floundering without any plan or direction. Goran Dragic always plays well and got a hefty contract out of it and the team did acquire Eric Bledsoe- but after that there is not a whole lot to be “sunny” about in Phoenix. The arrival of Terps product Alex Len may be a cause for some cheeriness, but he is a project and at least a year away from being a factor for the franchise. The Suns post-Nash have been full of good, serviceable players- but good and serviceable does not get you to the playoffs, much less a Larry O’Brien trophy. 

Player(s) to watch: Eric Bledsoe and Alex Len- If only because outside of Dragic, there won’t be any others to invest interest in. Bledsoe is a very dynamic player with speed and finesse and the ability to create his own shot while Len is a project with only one year at Maryland. They won’t make Phoenix a contender anytime soon, but they will have some fun moments in the meantime. 

14. Sacramento Kings

Last season: 28-54

2013 projection: 30-52

A few things Kings fans can be happy about: not being owned by the Maloofs, a deeper team (in comparison to recent seasons) and Ben McLemore. When you look back on the 2013 NBA Draft, McLemore will be seen as an absolute steal as the seventh pick, and with Evans gone- Sacramento is McLemore’s for the taking. Along with Demarcus Cousins and Greivis Vasquez, the Kings are now finally headed in a positive direction. Carl Landry has returned to add veteran leadership to a team with John Salmons, Patrick Patterson and Marcus Thornton. While they once again will fail to come anywhere remotely close to the top eight spots, fans can once again have hope.

Player(s) to watch: The dynamic of Cousins/McLemore- Cousins as the incumbent star will be looked at to help guide the Kansas rookie. While it has been noted that Cousins has had maturity issues in the past, he will have to get past those and make the transition as smooth as possible if he wants to ever play in a meaningful basketball game.

13. Los Angeles Lakers

Last season: 45-37

2013 projection: 34-48

Since the inception of the Lakers franchise in 1948, the team has only missed the playoffs five times (1957-58, 1974-76, 1993-94 and 2004-05. 2004 was also the last time the team failed to crack 40 wins). Call it sacrilege, but 2013-14 will mark the sixth time. I’m no prophet, but assisted by the fact that an already aging team lost their best player (Bryant), second-best (Howard) and leave their last best options (Gasol and Nash) with a group of inexperienced, inconsistent options. Gone is Metta World Peace and Antawn Jamison. Enter Chris Kaman, Nick Young, Wes Johnson, and returning Jordan Farmar. Coming back from last year is Steve Blake, Jodie Meeks, Robert Sacre and Jordan Hill. The team drafted Ryan Kelly from Duke. In any other year, it would be a great draft pick- but in a season that will see them struggle even worse than last, it is a piece of gum plugging a leak in a dam.

Player (s) to watch: Nick Young and Jodie Meeks- In the absence of Kobe Bryant, these two will be logging big minutes to try and replace his production. While at times it will be admirable, would you trust leaving a pair of your Ferraris to one kid who just got his license and the other with a bad driving record? Neither would I- but desperate times call for desperate measures. Bryant will likely push himself to come back before the new year, but he should “do the Derrick Rose” and rest up for a more productive 2014. 



BSN's full NBA preview will be available Tuesday, October 15th at 
http://www.beyondsportsnetwork.com/pages/magazine



Like it? Love it? Hate it? Contact me on Twitter @SeanNeutron

Top 5 WWE Returns I Most Want to See

5. World's Greatest Tag Team: Benjamin and Haas could always wrestle, but in the years since they have been gone, they have seasoned their characters as well. They could be face or heel and just about business all the time. Not much needs to be said- just let them loose on your tag division and have 30 min tag matches (Shield/WGTT?!) Sorry Matadors- no room for you, but let's keep the lil bull.

4. John Morrison- The dude probably still cannot talk a lick, but his moveset was fun and did allow him to get over massively with the audience. He'd be great for MITB/ladder/TLC matches, and maybe he could feud with Miz and rejuvenate his stale run in the WWE.

3. MVP- His character had plenty of mileage on it back in 2007. So to see him get released was a surprise. The man had the IT factor, and while no true mat technician, he could still go and put on fun, worthwhile matches. His character gets over with all ages and the merchandise market for him was never really tapped into. Plus, his entrance was pretty awesome along with his music. Have him help the midcard and renew the belts' prestige, and if he gets over enough to warrant a WWE or heavyweight title shot- why not?

2. Hulk Hogan- Hogan needs to come back. Forget the last four years, and bring back the WWE Hogan. He doesn't even need to wrestle (just the occasional leg drop), but seeing him on a WWE show or PPV would definitely be a fun thing to watch after all these years.

1. Kurt Angle- This is a no-brainer. Yes he is up there in age, but Angle was always the real deal- it's true, it's true. While he is not in his prime, he could still give WWE a few more classics, feud again with Rock, Brock, give the rub to Ziggler, Punk and Bryan. Plus Cena/Angle renewing their "ruthless aggression" match? Sign me up. Also, Angle needs a proper DVD set, and he never got one before leaving for TNA.


Like it? Love it? Hate it? Contact me on Twitter @SeanNeutron.

Getting the Edge: Maintaining Your Fantasy Football Team

Before the season started, I came up with a list of rules to abide by in putting together your fantasy team. But the road to fantasy greatness doesn't stop there. The most successful fantasy players do not just rest on the laurels of a great draft or even a great first few weeks. The constant tweaking and tinkering to your roster is what can separate you from the rest of the pack. The balance between knowing when to fix your team and when to leave it alone can determine how often you win or lose. Here is a guide after the first four weeks on how to keep your roster primed for success.


1. The Wire- No, I am not talking about the popular hit show. But ignoring your league's waiver wire is dangerous for your team's potential success. Stay on top of it. While leagues have different rules here, being proactive is paramount regardless. Most have an order depending on the records of the league; others are first come, first served. The old saying, "the early bird gets the worm" can be replaced by "the early fantasy player gets the free agent." This is very basic, but when a  player goes down or is in a slump- the wire is crucial to maximizing success. Speaking of which...


2. Injuries/slumps happen- Before the season, optimisim reigns supreme for your paper champions- then games happen and reality sets in. Even the best (Peterson) can be vulnerable to slumps whether it be because of their own play (Kaepernick) or because of someone elses' (AJ Green/Andy Dalton). Don't be afraid to bench big names who are in a rut or injured in favor of lesser players who have a better chance to thrive based off recent weeks' performances.


 3. Match-ups make all the difference- Most of the time your best players are guaranteed starts outside of byes or injuries, but don't be afraid to sit them in favor of a bench player whose opposing team is likely to give up big points. For instance, sitting a quarterback like Andrew Luck against Seattle and playing a less popular player like Alex Smith against Tennessee in week 5 could pay off. 

4. Bye, bye, bye- Don't be the person who constantly forgets to bench a player on bye and suffers because of it. Having the name there might look good, but not next to a goose egg while a player on the bench has 12 points.


5. Don't fix what is not broken- If you are in the minority whose key players are not hurt, slumping or on a bye...don't bench players who are on a roll.


6. Let's make a deal- The first thought that crosses all fantasy players' minds when offered a trade is a lot like when a grocery shopper sees a marked-down item: "What's the catch?" A majority of trades is players trying to hoodwink the other side, trying to see if an unsuspecting team will fall victim. But every now and then someone is offering a trade that benefits both parties. Do your research and look at patterns of all players in the trade, while assessing current roster needs. Have too many recievers? Two great defenses? Two kickers? Unload some of that capital to spread the wealth amongst you team and better position yourself for that week's win. (Also, if you have two kickers- you should probably retire from fantasy football.)

If you are trying to move a player, don't bother if it is because they are in a slump. For instance, offering David Wilson or Stevan Ridley for anyone is fruitless and a waste of time. No one is biting on those until they prove some sort of worth.


7.  Light at the end of the tunnel- Started 1-3? 0-4? While a quarter of the season is gone, all is not lost. Do not panic and make unecessary adds or trades to convince yourself you are better off. Once fully healthy or on all cylinders, your team may bounce back. There may be a race to waiver wires, and sixteen weeks may go by fast for lots of football fans- but having patience and a little perspective can do wonders for turning a bad start into a potential playoff spot. (In the reverse situation, do not think you have the league won if you are 4-0. There are still 12 weeks to ruin your dreams


8. Indecisions make Johnny a dull boy- Wondering if you should start a returning player or a slumping one?  Always go for the player who has more potential and opportunities to score more points. For example, start Tavon Austin this week over Justin Blackmon. While a quarterback like Bradford is in the pits, starting a talented Blackmon after his four game suspension with an even worse QB option in Gabbert is incredibly risky and likely to lead to few points.


9. Breathe in, breathe out- Losing big early? Gave up a lead and worried about getting upset by your league's worst team? Best player get injured? When it comes right down to it, it's all just a game. Take a deep breath, stretch your legs. Unplug from your TV, laptop, tablet, phone, etc. Don't sweat the small things and realize sometimes things are out of your control and there was nothing else that could have been done.


10. This is the sound of me not listening- People who are not involved with your team/league still do NOT care about them. If your wife or girlfriend even acts the slightest bit interested, it's because she doesn't want to hurt your feelings. You know- just like how you tell her how much you appreciate her analysis of Real Housewives, or her complete review of Fifty Shades of Grey

No one is an absolute fantasy genius. We like to think we are, but winning comes down to a certain amount of common sense, skill and an inate ability to make occasional gambles that can pay off big. If you are already winning, great. If you are losing more often than not, bummer. Either way- being aware and making educated decisions will give you a better chance to finish on top of your fantasy league.


Like it? Love it? Hate it? Contact me on Twitter @SeanNeutron

"What's Best for Business" is....what's best for business

  Randy Orton and HHH have had the upper hand on Daniel Bryan a majority of the time- and that's not a bad thing.



If you have been watching WWE television for the last few months, one recurring line that stands out is, "What's best for business." HHH started it when referring to why he cost Daniel Bryan his title at Summerslam. HHH's real-life wife Stephanie McMahon continued it. Their former corporate champion Randy Orton began uttering it. This line is not just a quote uttered by WWE personalities- it's a philosophy used to actually enhance their current product.

Years ago most of those in the internet wrestling community (and still a good chunk to this day) believed HHH had married into success by wedding the boss' daughter, Stephanie McMahon. Wrestlers cried foul, believing HHH had cut corners to get his spot while rarely, if ever, putting others over. In the mid-nineties, HHH was part of The Klique, then soon after a part of D-Generation X- one of wrestling's most famous stables of all time. After DX disbanded (I don't count the money-grabbing, watered-down 2006-2010 version) in the late 90's, HHH was in the main event picture and had the WWE title more often than not. He was known for coming out each and every week on RAW to give long, drawn-out promos and became synonomous with the term "bury". (This means to prevent another star from gaining fame, usually by beating them over and over again, or other times verbally during promos.)

In 2006, HHH seemed to turn the corner. He lost by submission cleanly to John Cena. Cena would go on to be the company's golden boy, and still is to this day. HHH would remain a face (good guy) up until WWE's most recent turn of events. Daniel Bryan beat Cena at Summerslam, and HHH wasted no time in Pedigree'ing Bryan for Orton to pin him with his Money in the Bank contract. (The contract inside allows that superstar to "challenge" for the belt at the drop of a hat...or in this case  a skull.) I put the term challenge in quotations because most of the time, the MITB holder waits for a moment of weakness and uses it to capitalize and gain the WWE title.

Coming into Summerslam, three things were very apparent: Bryan was the hottest superstar in a very longtime, Orton was a stagnant bore on the mic and in the ring, and special guest referee HHH would become involved in the WWE title switching hands at some point. While a lot of IWC'ers (myself included) bemoaned the third moment, it worked with the first two moments to produce one hell of a storyline.

When reflecting on it and not in the moment, all the stars (in this case WWE ones) aligned for a storyline with plenty of legs to it. Orton had purpose again. He wasn't a pandering, bland babyface. He was a dirty, self-serving heel who was sick of caring what others thought. Bryan's star did not fade out like some feared. It brightened by the day. "YES!" was not just a rallying cry anymore; it was a lifestyle to get past any obstacle put forth. Sold-out arenas around the country were full of fans who continued to chant it loudly. It had been a long time since fans had become disgusted and revolted at the hands of a title change. While those in disagreement were not aware, HHH and company were looking at the big picture.

What  I had expected after HHH cost Bryan the title was him to come out and be the Game of 1999-2000. That character consisted of a heel who was bent on his own agenda and cared for no one else. What I was surprised is the evolution (no pun intended) of his heel character. It's a tongue-in-cheek nod to the IWC's perception of the Game. He knows he is thought of as a seflish, scheming, politicking star- and he's using it to his advantage. Stephanie herself acts as his righthand woman, complimenting her powerful husband perfectly. They are on the same page and using their collective starpower for better.(But please, Stephanie- enough of belittling Divas champion AJ Lee. It serves no purpose, not even in storylines.)

This was set to be their big storyline, set to not only make Bryan into a star, but a host of other wrestlers as well.

Cody Rhodes, Dolph Ziggler and the Shield have been given plenty of time to show off their characters and abilities as well. (This is also in due large part to the absence of John Cena, who had surgery on his elbow.) The Shield continue to look strong and are out  of their brief slump in the early to mid summer. They are the unofficial bodyguards/henchment of the "Corporation 2.0" as some call it. They don't just win matches- they win cleanly and convincingly. Roman Reigns' spear continues to captivate, while the brash nature of Dean Ambrose and the versatile ability of Seth Rollins only add to make the triumvirate of champions (US/WWE tag) a major threat. Dolph Ziggler had been muted and held back at first, but in recent weeks has shown progress and determination to rally against the heels. Rhodes is embroiled in a heated rivalry with HHH and Stephanie as well, "fighting" for his job back as well as respect not only for himself, but also his family. 

"What's best for business" has not only served to help make new stars, but like Randy Orton, it gave another longtime main-eventer another chance to shine: the Big Show.

Big Show has gone in and out of the main event scene, from good to bad and bad to good more times than one can count. He has been World Heavyweight champion, WWE champion, WWE tag champion, U.S. champion and Intercontinental champion. He has had sabbaticals, but is a company man and has put up with a lot. But he must be thankful for this chance, because it shows in his most recent efforts. He isn't just a big oaf meant to be shown off like a giant freak. He is a performer capable of not only various in-ring storytelling, but also a wide range of emotion. His character has depth than just "guy who wants to beat people up". He, like Rhodes, is fighting for respect- and in storyline, money. HHH and Stephanie have exploited Show and degraded him many times over, to the point where fans are dying to see Show knock the Game's head off with his massive fist. In a time where we want things NOW NOW NOW, watching a storyline build over time makes the comeuppance far more gratifying than if it were to happen after one week. Viewers are legitimately angry about a fake sport- but that's the point. They become emotionally invested in on-screen characters; just like a movie. The difference is that these guys (and gals)  travel on the road 250+ days a year and battle through many various injuries- all for the sake of entertainment.

While some may argue that Bryan and Show getting "punked" over and over again is tiresome and that they should get over on HHH and his goons, I believe this big-picture thinking is quite refreshing. But speaking of punk, where is C.M in all of this? Of course he is battling Ryback and Paul Heyman (and Curtis Axel- sort of), but that storyline has yet to intersect with that of the new regime's power trip. Quite a few times, HHH has had the roster stand on stage to watch matches,  berate them or have them voice opinions. None of those times CM Punk was on stage. I believe that at some point, Punk, Ryback and Heyman have to be inserted in some fashion into this angle. They are too useful not to be utilized here.

A good heel always believes they are right and can sometimes convince fans they are, and in this case...HHH's reasoning really does make sense, even if you don't want to admit it. HHH (in-character) really believes what he and Stephanie are doing is what is best for business. Daniel Bryan, Big Show and the rest of the wrestlers  trying to buck the system believe they are doing what's right. This back-and-forth struggle for power and respect is not only fun to watch and try and foresee- it's what is best for business.







Like it? Love it? Hate it? Contact me on Twitter @SeanNeutron.

Video Breakdown: Wrecking Ball

It has come upon my attention that one Miley Cyrus has released a new music video. It is entitled "Wrecking Ball." After watching it, I wish I had written in black sharpie on my hand "Don't watch 'Wrecking Ball'........ever." Then I wish a wrecking ball would come by and hit me into yesterday, so when someone alerted me to Cyrus' new "masterpiece", I could refer to my hand for assistance. But alas, I cannot undo what has been done and must delve into my thinking process during viewing of this monstrosity. Read if you like. Watch if you dare.


:02- Her face is way to close. Like, seriously...too close. Get out of my bubble, Miley. But she has a tear, so this MUST be a serious song. I suppose her intentions are to tug at my heart strings and show me a level of depth not seen before from ass-shaking and pseudo sexing in "We Can't Stop". It also might be redemption for her travesty that was the MTV VMA's performance.

:08- She begins her singing, but all I can focus on is that strand of saliva that connects her upper set of teeth to the lower. Isn't there editing software for that? It's truly distracting.


:33- She is against a wall with a sledgehammer. Well ok then. Nothing to see here. These high definition cameras would be better served had they been used on legitimately cool effects or visuals, and not a scantily-clad, Robin Thick-fakesexing Miley Cyrus.

:47- So she's in a super tiny tanktop and white bikini bottoms. Because when you want to have a "power ballad" single and be taken seriously...YOU CAN'T BE BOTHERED WITH BEING FULLY DRESSED.

:48- Wow, it took this long for her mouth to touch an object? Poor sledgehammer.

:54- The wrecking ball crashes into one of three walls in this random industrial looking set. I also have no idea what she's singing about yet- I am still trying to process the odd mix of visuals.

1:00- I have determined this song is about a boy (shocker) and how he has affected her emotionally. She approached their love in an aggressive fashion like that of a wrecking ball. You know- when wrecking balls are romanced. Then her boyfriend "wrecked" her emotions by treating her like poop. Ok, NOW I get it.

1:03- Cyrus sits atop the wrecking ball, straddling the chain. Poor wrecking ball. Nothing is safe from Miley's crotch. I just Googled "wrecking ball sexual harassment." I have determined it does not exist.

1:15- And the gloves come off. And by gloves I mean clothes. Yes, Miley is now fully naked on said wrecking ball, snapping her neck backwards to convey----well I have no idea what grinding a wrecking ball fully naked conveys. A lust for demolishing, or being a home-wrecker?

1:24- She is now beginning to fellate the sledgehammer again. Hard to tell if it has consented, since it's a sledgehammer. I hope it was tested after the video was over.

1:32- She continues to switch from naked, to scantily-clad. Neither in her case is particularly appealing...but damn it- make up your mind.

2:23- The video continues with her making sexual gyrations, mouth movements and going from naked to scantily-clad some more. Her "serious" and "intense" expressions during her up-close face shots need work. Actually they may be fine- it's just her desperate desire for attention via sex takes away any semblance of seriousness. I've never seen a female with so little (or no) clothing and been less turned on before. Why did I eat right before this?!

3:09- The ball continues to smash (literally, not sexually) and Cyrus lies on top of the rubble in her white attire- which cannot be comfortable. She begins slapping her face...to display frustration? Anger? Some sort of love of physical punishment?

3:16- "I just closed my eyes and swung" is sung. I wish I would have closed my eyes at 0.00 of this video and kept them shut for the duration. Put this video on a loop in a room and have someone be forced to watch it  for hours. THAT'S punishment.


At the end of the video, it says "Directed by Terry Richardson." I have no idea who that is, but directing a video of one location with one person alternating from clothed to naked while performing very suggestive acts cannot be that difficult. The hard part is putting up with Cyrus' needs for attention and desire to exude some sort of post-Disney sexual maturity.

While Brittany Spears and Christina Aguilera  came into their own and exuded sexuality with their videos and performances years ago, they never came across as desperate for attention or nearly as repulsive as Cyrus carries herself. While I am not a fan of Spears or Aguilera, they showed and continue to show their musical talent is what got them to where they are- not just their physical traits. Miley seems to fit the mold of YouTubers and Vine makers in this day and age- they'll do anything for attention and tell others it made them into a star. "Bad publicity is better than no publicity" seems to be the rallying cry for the youth in 2013.

Sex sells- but it doesn't make you into an adult, Miley. Her understanding of this is what will either make or break her as a singles star. At this point it seems very unlikely she'll change her tune- in more ways than one.



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Summerslam 2013 Preview: Why, Vince? WHY?!

If that poster doesn't scream "the highest level of wrestling put on the biggest stage in the summer outside of Wrestlemania", then you'd be right. Once again, WWE has decided to place their focus on the storylines, and forget what their company was built on: wrestling. Regardless, Summerslam 2013 does have a few intriguing match-ups, a few duds, and one or two matches looking to steal the show. I'll take a look at the buildup to each match, then make a prediction for my favorite fake sport outside of fantasy football.

U.S. Title
Rob Van Dam vs. Dean Ambrose (C)

This match takes place on the pre-show at 7:30 on Youtube. RVD looks to do RVD things, and Ambrose looks to cement his legacy as U.S. Champion. The belt is definitely lacking prestige and has done nothing but gather dust on previous champions' shoulders. Ambrose looks to re-energize the U.S. title scene and place importance on  what should be an important achievement. He is young and hungry, eager to prove his mettle as a singles' wrestler in the WWE.

On the flip side, you have RVD- who since coming back has done his usual move-set, gotten the crowd motivated behind him as a plucky face. Nothing has changed- not any of his moves, not his character or any of his motivations. At this stage in his career he is just an enhancement talent; he does not need the win or the belt to get over with the crowd. Losing to Ambrose cleanly will only make the belt and Ambrose look all the more impressive. RVD will sell the bulldog drive like a figurative champ, and Ambrose will move on to bigger and better things. I do not think the Shield need to get involved here, as it would weaken Ambrose's win.

Winner and STILL United States Champion: Dean Ambrose

*Rumors are swirling that RVD, Mark Henry and Big Show will take on the Shield right after this match, making it all the more likely the Shield will try to do a run-in. That match could go either way. Either the Shield get back on track, or the faces get a show-opening win. Never go against the men in black. BELIEVE in the Shield! ( Although I'd rather just see Rollins and Reign defend the belts against Show and Henry.)

Winners: The Shield


Natalya vs. Brie Bella

This match stems from the two divas' involvement in E!'s Total Divas. So yeah- it's totally a deep, complex and intriguing feud. Ok, I'll turn off my sarcasm machine. This is really just a chance to shoehorn the show into Summerslam (it happens to run against the PPV at 10 p.m.- ironically the two Bellas competing with their respective boyfriends for ratings). I would not be surprised to see Eva Marie, JoJo, Nikki Bella, and the Funkadactyls get involved after a failed attempt at "Twin Magic". WWE might pull the switch-a-roo and have it become one big women's television match to bring more attention to the show. As much as I like my wrestling, that many attractive women on my screen is never a bad thing.

Winners: Every warm-blooded American male


Dolph Ziggler and Kaitlyn vs. Big E. Langston and A.J.

Because it makes sense to have your Divas Champion not defend her belt at Summerslam. Not. This match was thrown together recently, likely because the company is losing faith in Ziggler as a face, and Big E. is sill very green. You'd think the best seller in the business could make one of the morre power-based guys in the company look like a million bucks, but WWE felt a need to throw the women in this match, too. While you can't have Kaitlyn challenge AJ for the title (she's lost around 4,897 times to her), you could have had a women's triple threat (Kaitlyn vs. Layla vs. AJ). I see Ziggler and Kaitlyn regaining some steam with either her spear or his Zig Zag.

Winners: Dolph and Kaitlyn


Cody vs. Damien Sandow

While I see no need for Sandow to lose his briefcase, to have it on the line here would make for a more intriguing match. Regardless, it will be a heck of a match and could quietly steal the show. Sandow has really grown as a performer in the last calendar year or so, and shows he can be a top heel in time. Rhodes is a solid worker in the ring and has his own type of charisma. The basis for this feud is very thin, as Rhodes comes off looking like a bitter person and sore sport. He is mad that Sandow won  the MITB briefcase fair and square. The faces' logic in WWE these days is mind-boggling, but c'est la WWE.

I see a ten minute match with Rhodes going over. While Sandow winning makes sense (he needs to look strong as a MITB winner), WWE loves to weaken their MITB winners (Hi, Dolph). If Sandow loses, it could set up a cash-in later in the show following the Del Rio/Christian match, but that is a pure guess.

Winner: Cody Rhodes


Kane vs. Bray Wyatt (Ring of Fire Match)

This has quietly been one of the better feuds over the last month heading into Summerslam. Kane is a great, veteran wrestler who can help guide the younger up-and-comers. This is similar to RVD/Ambrose (with way more gimmick than flash), as Kane will put over the younger Wyatt. The Wyatt family debuted with a TON of fanfare, and tonight will kick off the start of  a bright future for the trio. It won't be long or a classic by any means, but it will progress the Wyatts while giving Kane a reason to take some time off. At his age, he could use it to re-charge, or even retire. He has peaked as a performer with Team Hell No likely his last prominent storyline in WWE. Follow the buzzards, Kane.

Winner: Bray Wyatt


CM Punk vs. Brock Lesnar

The build-up to this match has been nothing short of phenomenal. We already knew Punk and Heyman could go on the mic, so it's no surprise. But it still rules to watch them banter back and forth. The line of this feud goes to (of all people) Brock Lesnar: "Say something stupid, Paul."  This match will likely follow the classic big man/little man schematic. Lesnar is this unstoppable beast and Punk is the smaller, gritty, never-say-die hero who never underestimates himself. This has helped Punk get out of the funk he was in since returning at Payback in June.

Rumors lately have Lesnar not returning again until Wrestlemania in New Orleans, so I suspect he will win here. He'll need the win to build off once he returns, and Punk will be left trying to figure out the puzzle that is Brock Lesnar. Although your casual fan must wonder why Lesnar leaves at the end of the summer, only to appear in the spring again. Hibernation at its finest.

Winner: Brock Lesnar


World Heavyweight Championship:
Christian vs. Alberto Del Rio (C) 

This match is one step above the Natalya and Brie in terms of development or intrigue factor. Alberto's latest title run has been nothing but disastrous, as he struggles to gain any sort of traction as a legitimate main eventer (heel or face). Time after time, WWE puts their eggs in ADR's basket, and he gives them no reason to believe in him. Yet, here we are at Summerslam with Del Rio as champ. Also, he is without his trusty longtime friend and personal ring announcer, Ricardo Rodriguez. Otherwise known as the one thing that separated him from every other superstar. Some compare ADR to a Spanish John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) circa 2004. He was a rich Texan who rubbed his wealth in everyone's faces, arriving via limousine at every show. JBL reigned as WWE champion until being dethroned by John Cena at Wrestlemania 21.  The difference between the two is JBL knew how to manipulate the crowd, attract real heel heat and not "X-Pac" heat. ADR on the other hand goes for typical, bland bad gyuy heat. He doesn't know how to put the crowd in the palm of his hand like The Rock, Steve Austin. Heck, even Mark Henry or Edge are light years ahead of ADR in the promo department.

His opponent for the evening is the always reliable Christian. Not in regards to his recent healthy history. but as a company guy so to speak. He never gets in trouble, and he has a following of fans from his Edge and Christian days. He is still able to go  in the ring, and honestly I could see these two having a great match despite the feud's lack of substance. I see Christian being rewarded for his constant reliability and a chance to add some juice to the end of a great career.

Winner and NEW World Heavyweight Champion: Christian


WWE Title Match: Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena (C)

Finally we arrive at the match everyone is paying to see. The crafty and cunning cult favorite, Daniel Bryan versus the dynastic John Cena. Their segment from RAW was an incredible way to get people to want to buy the show. Even crappy-face Miz couldn't ruin this segment. (By the way, MizTV can end. They could have done this segment in the ring with no couches or fancy-dressed stammering happy-go-lucky douchebag interrupting them.) But one man could ruin it, and did. His name? HHH.

When HHH came out, in his head he had to be thinking, "Wait are Bryan and Cena having a hell of a go-home segment? WELL BY GOLLY LET ME COME OUT AND STAND BETWEEN THEM WHILE ORTON RANDOMLY STANDS AT THE TOP OF THE RAMP BECAUSE MONEY." 

The other person who has to inject himself in this feud? None other than Vince McMahon. His role, along with Stephanie's and HHH's has been overdone, and hurt not only the feud, but the WWE in general. We don't need them to take up 3-5 segments a show. Having McMahon doubt Bryan is fine, but harping on it is a whole different thing. He's small, he says he is a wrestler- get over it.  

Their need to be involved has me remembering the summer of 2011- the summer of Punk. CM Punk gave one of the most intriguing, genuine promos of all time and made Cena the heel by default. It also helped the match was in Chicago. But who had to be involved? HHH. Towards the end of that summer, he and his buddy, Kevin Nash decided Punk shouldn't be champion anymore. And that was that. 

Fast forward to summer 2013. Cena has been typical Cena, but during Monday's RAW, he was passionate and on point. He, along with Bryan, made this match a must-watch in that segment alone. Their "feud" had been dragging, as there was no tension or obvious conflict. The lines were drawn when Cena admitted that he did not respect Bryan. It's the wrestler versus the superstar. Bryan conveyed his struggle and desire to be the best wrestler alive, and Cena was able to let Bryan and the audience know how he is always game to defend his title. 

I see Bryan winning this match, no matter how much Cena throws at him or what Vince and HHH do. Recent rumors suggest HHH will pull a heel turn or be a major factor in the outcome of the match, leading to a bigger picture feud ending at 'Mania. I don't think this match needed a special ref of any kind. All it needs is two wrestlers fighting for the ultimate prize: the WWE Title. 

Bryan winning would cement him as a main eventer, but one other thing could cement him as a legend: beating another top tier WWE star. I propose that Orton should come out and cash in his briefcase, hit an RKO. The crowd thinks it's over, but low and behold- Bryan kicks out and taps out the Viper to end the show. This would bring back visions of Jericho downing Rock and Austin in the same night back in 2001. 


Don't overbook it, Vince. Just have faith in your current product and wrestlers to bring in the eyeballs and the money. K.I.S.S:  Keep it simple, stupid. Or you can kiss the momentum Bryan has been working on all summer good-bye. 



Like it? Love it? Hate it? Contact me on Twitter @SeanNeutron.