In 2004, Diamondbacks fans would have been delighted to see their team land Dontrelle Willis. But in 2010, Arizona fans may not be too thrilled. In 2003, Willis posted a 3.31 ERA in his rookie year. That same year, he was selected to the National League All-Star roster, and he won Rookie of the Year honors. Two years later, Willis won 22 games, and posted a 2.63 ERA. Since then, it has all gone downhill. After being traded to the Tigers, Dontrelle had a mind boggling 9.38 ERA in 2008, and a 7.49 ERA last year.

After having a 4.99 ERA thus far in 2010, Detroit decided it was time to move on. And thus, Dontrelle Willis is now an Arizona Diamondback. It is rare to see a pitcher go through such a downward spiral when injuries were not the main cause. However, Willis is not a lost cause, as he has shown signs of greatness in the past. Whether or not he can go remotely back to his old self remains to be seen. The D-Train is now entering the station.

Losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals was the worst nightmare for Phoenix Suns fans. It added another playoff series lost to the last ten years or so. And more importantly, this could have been their last chance.

Many looked disappointed that the Suns fell short yet again. But, Amare Stoudemire looked more relieved than disappointed. Like many others in the upcoming free agent class, Stoudemire is looking forward to cashing in and making millions of dollars, while choosing a destination. If he leaves, there goes any glimpse of hope of Steve Nash winning a title for the Suns.

Without Amare, it would not leave the Suns with too much. Aside from Nash, they would still have many solid, nice, complimentary players. But they could kiss any hope of coming close to the NBA Finals goodbye.

by David at the Sports Fan Blog Network

With game two coming up in the NBA Western Conference Finals, the Phoenix Suns are facing the possibility of going down 2-0 in the series. If they go down 2-0, they can be counted out. And unfortunately for the Suns, this may be their last year to compete for a championship with this core. While players such as Shaquille O’Neal and Shawn Marion have come and gone, Steve Nash and Amare Stoudemire have been in Phoenix during this run that has lasted almost a decade. However, time is running out. Nash is still excellent, but can only play for so long. And with the 2010 off-season coming up, who knows what is in store for Amare Stoudemire.

Most of America is rooting for the Suns. Steve Nash is a very likeable player, and if you don’t want Grant Hill to win a championship, then you have no soul. But unfortunately, standing between the Suns and a date in the NBA Finals are the defending champions. And if Kobe and company have their way, it looks like the Suns will add another playoff exit to their never-ending list.

by David at the Sports Fan Blog Network