NBA News of the Day 12.5.2006: [David Stefanini]

Before I start, sorry for missing yesterday's NBA News of the Day. Me and my girlfriend had an anniversary and I couldn't miss that. Now with that out of the way:

- The Dallas Mavericks lost for the first time in 13 games last night to the Washington Wizards. You knew at some point this would happen.

- Eddy Curry is finally looking like, "The best center in the East", as Shaq proclaimed when Shaq was a member of the Lakers.

- Dwyane Wade was named the 2006 Sportsman of the Year by Sports Illustrated. His performance this year is/was unbelievable and he is very deserving of this award.

- Kobe Bryant sprained his ankle in the 3rd quarter in the Lakers 101-87 win over the Pacers. Though it doesn't seem to be a serious sprain, this sent chills through every Laker fan. The Lakers are playing among the top teams in the league, and to kill their momentum now would hurt this team greatly in the long run.

Player of the Night:

Gilbert Arenas was amazing last night against the Mavericks. The Mavericks entered the game with the longest win streak in the NBA, because of Arenas's 38 points, 8 assists, and 2 rebounds, they left with the thought of starting a new streak tomorrow.

Game to Watch Tonight:

This is an easy one to pick. Dallas @ New Jersey. The Nets have hopes of being in the NBA Finals but haven't looked it so far. The Mavericks have looked like their ready for a return to the Finals. This will be a great statement for the Nets if they can beat the Mavericks tonight. I feel the Nets will get the job done because Dallas is playing the 2nd of a back-to-back.