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 Scary time for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Nov. 10: Just a few years after a good friend passed away from leukemia, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was scared when he received his cancer diagnosis. |
Ask the NBA expert: Ira Winderman |
Do you have a burning question about your favorite team or player? Submit it now, and then check back for our reader mailbag on the 1st and 15th of each month. |  |
Q: I know it's early, but how do you break down the MVP race so far? Any surprise candidates?
— Will, Los Angeles
A: I probably go with Kevin Garnett No. 1. He's had the biggest impact for what's been the best team and is working on an all-time turnaround. To me it's not even close. The big surprise has to be Brandon Roy of the Trail Blazers. His numbers don't suggest it, but he's been the glue for the surprise team of the season.
Q: Do you think Jason Kidd will be sent to Denver in a trade? Something is not right with the Nuggets. They need help.
— Nouri Marrakchi, Denver
A: They've had injuries, and Nene's illness is a blow to everyone around the organization. Yes, they could use a real point guard and get Allen Iverson off the ball. But they've already got one of the highest payrolls in the NBA and seemingly enough talent with what they've spent. I don't see them taking on another big contract.
Q: What do you think about the immediate future for T.J. Ford? Does he return to play within next January?
— Luca, Italy
A: It really remains uncertain. Going through all the opinions he has, there clearly is a question about the effect of another fall. If even one doctor told me I could be paralyzed, that would be it for me. I wouldn't play and I wouldn't allow him to play. He has a reckless style and isn't a passive jump shooter. He has to play his way to be effective. I'd be very careful on this one. He has a long life to live ahead of him.
Q: If you had to pick a surprise teams from each conference to make noise in the playoffs, who would they be?
— Frank Bilbao, Ojai, Calif.
A: The Lakers were the surprise until Andrew Bynum got hurt, but he should return in time to be ready for the postseason and they could have a serious run. I still find Portland hard to believe, but they're staying up there. In the East, I thought the Nets would, but they've given no reason to believe. I'd keep my eye on Orlando if they could somehow manage to pry a point guard away from someone.
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