Play A:

Player A, after catching an inbounds pass, jumps up to take a shot, and then while realizing that he was going to get his shot blocked, starts his dribble while being airborne. I had this happen in a 5A game tonight and instictively called it traveling.

Play B:
A1, after catching the ball, attempts to throw the ball to a teammate A2. A2 doesn't realize that he is supposed to be the reciever of the pass, and then goes and attempts an on ball screen for A1. A1 throws the ball toward A2 and then goes and recovers it, taking many steps after releasing the ball and recovering it...
...your calls ladies and gentlemen??????

NFHS:
Play A: Traveling see 4-43-4b

Play B: no violation if the ball touched the floor.
violation if the ball had not touched the floor or
if player had already ended a dribble.
SEE (CB) 4.15.4.b

Your instint was right in play 1 - the pivot foot was lifted before the dribble went down. In play 2, I hope your instincts went the other way. :)

play 2 didn't happen to me...just food for thought....