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TSN Basketball Analyst

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TSN's Jack Armstrong offers his thoughts on home court advantage, the return of David West, the drama of Derrick Rose, the struggles of Lance Stepheson and the future of basketball in Milwaukee.

1. Home Court Advantage: As I sit here in Atlanta getting ready for Wednesday's Raptors game, I've been thinking of how important home court is in the NBA. You need to look no further than Toronto and realize the impact the home crowd has had in the Raptors success these past 12 months. I've been to every NBA arena multiple times in my 17 years as a Raptors broadcaster and I'm telling you that in Toronto, you're talking about a home crowd that's awesome. Fans are knowledgeable and passionate and it shows. It surely makes a difference.

2. David West (Pacers): Likely back in lineup this week and his scoring, rebounding and leadership will be a big addition. Coach Frank Vogel has done a magnificent job keeping this team somewhat afloat. West will help stabilize things that much more.

3. Derrick Rose (Bulls): I'm worn out already from this drama. Either play all out with nothing else to talk about or don't play at all. This soap opera is having an effect on their team despite what they say. Gotta be able to trust and rely on the fact that he's ready to roll when he's healthy.

4. Lance Stephenson (Hornets): This team has been a disappointment and misses Josh McRoberts. That being said, Stephenson has shot poorly (37 per cent) and is averaging under 10ppg. Not good enough for the investment that has been made in him. Their chemistry was excellent last season and I don't see the same flow in their offence. He hasn't brought his A game to the table and it better show up soon or they're in trouble.

5. Milwaukee Arena: The clock is ticking to try and get a new arena deal done. If there's no new arena being funded and in the process of being built by 2017, the NBA has the right to buy the team and move it. They'll be plenty of cities (Seattle, Louisville, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Kansas City) lining up trying to make a run at this team. I've always enjoyed going to Milwaukee and I hope it all works out. Pressure is now on to get a deal done or they'll be gone in a few years and that would be sad.