Offical NBA Playoffs Thread

[Jae Hoon]

Its the best time of the year, the NBA is back and madness is in the air. Can the trifecta win the east? Will Kobe get traded? Are the Lakers retarded?(yes) All these and more.

GET YO GAME ON SON.

[Evolution]

Oh, good. I was just looking for the annual NBA thread.

Uhhh, go Suns. Not much to say yet.

[Westlo]

I hope to god that the Suns never win a ring because I'm sick of people overrating Steve Nash because of 2 MVP awards and it will only get worst if he gets a ring. Can anyone who has honestly watched NBA for 15 years tell me what's so amazing Steve Nash is doing that Jason Kidd didn't do better?

[Jae Hoon]

Steve Nash is a good PG, but Kidd is better. Suns wont ever win a ring they play no defense.

His second MVP was fraudulent anyway, everyone knows Kobe should have won it for throwing the Lakers on his back.

[LOSTyears]

everyone knows Kobe should have won it for throwing the Lakers on his back.I feel ya on that. Nash is far from overated but Kobe or Lebron were more than deserving last year. If Kobe's not gone this year, he'll more and likely be next year.
All eyes on the Celtics, thats a sick formation they got going on.
Somethings fishy in Boston man, their trying to get a strangle hold on all the major sports.

[Evolution]

Nash is overrated. There, you heard it from a Suns fan. I was a Suns fan before Nash came along and I will remain one after he is gone.

I don't quite understand why you hate on him and the team because the media and ESPN overrates and overhypes him. Nash is the kind of guy who will be the first to say that he doesn't deserve all of his accolades. He is just a humble dude trying his hardest to get us a ring. I do not think he gives a **** about the MVP award.

[Smith]

Do the Wizards even stand a chance aganist the new Boston Celtics tonight? I know the wiz got Agent Zero, but the Celts been down too long and they got KG n' R-Allen. . It's going to be a great season for Boston. A few days after winning the World Series, Boston is graced with the best Celtic team in a long time.

[kenshinbebop]

Celtics all the way. All star team this year.

[Depression]

Celtics all the way. All star team this year.

Tell that to Shaq, Kobe, Malone, and Payton.

[Westlo]

Malone and Payton were well past there prime, Garnett, Piece and Allen still have a few years left and Garnett is going to beast against the weak east conf teams.

Bench is the celtics biggest worry, barring injury to any of the big 3 I bet they sweep the cavs this season.

[Depression]

Bench + Defense.

[Jae Hoon]

Malone and Payton were well past there prime, Garnett, Piece and Allen still have a few years left and Garnett is going to beast against the weak east conf teams.

Bench is the celtics biggest worry, barring injury to any of the big 3 I bet they sweep the cavs this season.

2 facts that work against the Celts, no team in NBA history has ever had 3 people avg over 20 ppg and win the championship, no team in NBA history has had their top 3 scorers over the age of 30 and win the NBA championship.

[Evil_Koala]

Mavericks IMO.

[LOSTyears]

^ I still think the Mavs should shoot for Kobe.

Garnett, Piece and Allen still have a few years left and Garnett is going to beast against the weak east conf teams.I agree, my only question is can they beat the Spurs(who have a good bench and much more).
Kinda figured someone would bring up that old Laker team who's bad chemistry caught up with em eventually.

[Evil_Koala]

^ I still think the Mavs should shoot for Kobe.

**** Kobe. I wouldn't like the Mavs anymore if he was on the team.

[Depression]

Raptors almost beat the Celtics tonight in overtime, probably would have lost if Bosh didn't shoot 5-15.

Then again, Pierce wasn't playing too hot either.

[ZechsMerquise1]

I'm a warriors fan, i hate how all of a sudden we got 5x the fans we had AFTER they reached the playoffs -_- Stupid bandwagon fans tsk tsk anyways I hate how people say kobe is overated or hes a ball hog and he's weak 0_0 ARE THEY WATCHING THE DAMN GAMES? no one can say kobe is weak, nor he's overated...he's just one of the BEST players right now hands down

[Westlo]

Between now and future contention, Pritchard has manipulated that once-deadened Blazers salary cap to have between $15 million and $20 million available in the summer of 2009. Oddly enough, the game's best two young point guards, New Orleans' Chris Paul and Utah's Deron Williams, could be free agents in two years. If there was ever an intriguing lineup for a great young playmaker to stake his claim, it would be with the Blazers.

Can anyone blame either of those two moving to Portland to join Alridge, Roy and Oden? That would be a dynasty in the making....

[DAM8024]

I really happy for the Celtics. My sports idol growing up was Larry Bird and I watched the Celtics in the early 90s. There hasn't been a Celtics team this good since the late 80s. I hope they go far this year.

All of a sudden, tickets are hard to get and everyone is jumping on the bandwagon. Where are the Celtics fans who were chanting Kobe's name last year (absolutely embarrassing) or the Celtics fans wearing Anthony shirts the last few years?

The Red Sox have already won. The rolling rally parade was awesome! We'll see about the Patriots and Celtics.

[Westlo]

If Lebron keeps this Big O numbers up throughout the season and doesn't get the MVP than something is horribly wrong with the system.

Oh and still not convinced with the Celtics.

[Westlo]

Portland going to step up and be the best team in the west in 2-4 years time once Duncan starts to fall off. Roy is playing incredible lately, LMA is going to be something, Outlaw is being a great 6th man and if Oden can live up to half his hype when he returns next season these guys have the potential to win a few titles.

[Depression]

Lebon's little move for the reverse tonight was pretty nice.

I would love to see the Blazers good again. I was really excited to see Oden and Roy, but Aldridge and Outlaw are playing really good ball in the mean time.

[Gannon]

I'm a warriors fan, i hate how all of a sudden we got 5x the fans we had AFTER they reached the playoffs -_- Stupid bandwagon fans tsk tsk anyways I hate how people say kobe is overated or hes a ball hog and he's weak 0_0 ARE THEY WATCHING THE DAMN GAMES? no one can say kobe is weak, nor he's overated...he's just one of the BEST players right now hands down

Warriors are definitely going to return to the playoffs at this rate.

[SPARTAN117CJL]

**** Kobe. I wouldn't like the Mavs anymore if he was on the team.

You can't talk about Kobe, No one can. Run his mouth as much as he wants, He can still do things with the ball that just should not occur.

[Depression]

Lol Kobe's not going anywhere. They just picked up Gasol.

KGB = Kobe, Gasol, Bynum

10-15 24 PTS 12 REB 4 AST. Gasol fits in well I suppose.

[Jae Hoon]

Trade fixing to go down

Shaq going to Phx for Marion and Marcus Banks. Phx must have officially lost their mind.

[Depression]

Hip injured Shaq in the D'Antoni system is a joke.

I know Marion has wanted out for a while, but Shaq?

[kenshinbebop]

Anyone else catch that Skills Competition last night?? :D

[Naraku]

Is this going to be the greatest post season in NBA history, or what? There are so many quality teams in the west, and any team that makes the playoffs can easily be playing in the NBA finals. It's crazy to think that it's possible that a 50 win team won't even make the playoffs. The playoffs are going to be so exciting to watch.

Utah, LA Lakers, and Houston(arguebly the hottest team in the NBA right now), are my picks to win the west.

Either Boston, or Orlando for the east.

It's going to be an exciting post season though, that is for sure.

[LOSTyears]

Hip injured Shaq in the D'Antoni system is a joke.I thought so at first but I didn't think Shaq did to bad in his debut, thought it would be him playing catch up but the Suns have actually slowed down for him. Who knows maybe slowing it down may spark something, didn't stop Amare or Nash from putting up the numbers.
Kobe(41) ^_^ what a guy, no pinky no problem.
I'm probably more pessimistic about the Kidd trade, its nice he's back at square 1 but I don't think it'll make much difference as long as Dirk can't step up when they need him most. Glad they took Stack off that block though, they'd miss him come post season.

[Depression]

Sonics, Cavs, and Bulls made a deal today.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/nba_experts/post/Bulls-trade-Wallace-Smith-for-trio;_ylt=Aim58jowY7oatmH89iCHB8c5nYcB?u rn=nba,67973

[LOSTyears]

God damn the Hornets can be scary good, C. Paul's just a beast. I don't remember Peja ever playing that well in sac, maybe if they had one of those stupid little signs with his face on em he might've been ^_^ Looks like the Mavs are on their way out of the 1st again.
Not bad for a team with one little guy surrounded by throwaways, hope to see a lakers/hornets matchup.

[Fobb]

Hell yes, Suns are gonna lose in a clean sweep

[Woooh]

Go Lakers.

[Smith]

I would really like to see a Celtics-Lakers Finals. I never really watched them play live.

Whatever happens, I just do NOT want to see the Spurs in the Finals again. Absolutely entertaining basketball, these spurs play. -_-

Gotta admit, the way C-Paul's been rolling, if nobody stops him, he's going to win it all, IMO. Doesn't matter what team he is up against.

[Fobb]

Honestly, I agree w/ Smith, but I just can't stand seeing the Suns advance any further. I absolutely despise the fans, and its like they shut their eyes to all the bogus calls they get in their favour. Plus, I'm not a real big fan of Nash and how "nice" he plays. As far as I can tell, he plays well when they're up, but has to resort to giving it off if they're down, or throw up lucky shots like in that first game.

/hater

[Naraku]

I would really like to see a Celtics-Lakers Finals. I never really watched them play live.

Whatever happens, I just do NOT want to see the Spurs in the Finals again. Absolutely entertaining basketball, these spurs play. -_-

Gotta admit, the way C-Paul's been rolling, if nobody stops him, he's going to win it all, IMO. Doesn't matter what team he is up against.

Are you serious about the Spurs? They are a great team, and not boring to watch at all. I don't know why people see them as boring, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli, and Tony Parker are all great offensive and defensive players, and fun to watch.

The Hornets are better than I thought they'd be so far, but even if they beat the Mavericks(which certianly seems like that will happen), I don't think they'll make it past the Spurs in the next round(assuming they keep rolling on the suns).

The most overlooked team is the Utah Jazz in my opinion, I still pick them to win the West. Of course they'll have to play the lakers after they finish the Rockets off, which will be a great series. If they can beat the Lakers I have no doubts they'll be in the finals. So, I'm taking Jazz over Lakers, Spurs over Hornets, then Jazz over Spurs in a rematch of last years Western Conference Finals. I'm pretty sure I've got my brackets right.

In the east, I really think the Magic are a very dangerous team. Obviously the Celtics are the favorite, but I think the Magic have the potential to beat anyone, I know they beat the Celtics in the regular season. The Pistons are in real trouble, if they can make it past the 76ers, I dont' see them being able to beat the Magic. The Cavaliers will face the Celtics in the next round, but I don't know if they have enough to beat them, it'll be a good series to watch though. So, I think it'll be the Celtics and Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals, with the Magic over the Celtics.

It's hard to pick a team because it seems like anyone could come out on top in the west, and the East is pretty competitive as well I think(at least the top four). So it probably seems like I'm taking long shots, but I really don't think so.

[Smith]

I respect the Spurs, they have probably the most coehsive unit in the NBA. But personally I just find them boring to watch. Tim Duncan gets the same calls all the time, and the defender didn't even move. It is his pet move and almost always gets him the free throw line, while others try it and dont get the call. Tony Parker can barely shoot, the guy has one of the highest in-paint percentages.. I'll admit I do enjoy watching Manu and his crazy drives. Nobody does the off-speed shot as well as he does.

[Naraku]

I respect the Spurs, they have probably the most coehsive unit in the NBA. But personally I just find them boring to watch. Tim Duncan gets the same calls all the time, and the defender didn't even move. It is his pet move and almost always gets him the free throw line, while others try it and dont get the call. Tony Parker can barely shoot, the guy has one of the highest in-paint percentages.. I'll admit I do enjoy watching Manu and his crazy drives. Nobody does the off-speed shot as well as he does.

Duncan doesn't do the same thing every time. He can score from anywhere, though he likes to work in the post the most. I mean, he hit a 3 pointer to send it into double overtime in game 1 against the suns. Tim Duncan under the basket is a man, he has so many moves. As for Tony Parker, he is young and still working on his shot(and it has greatly improved, and has nowhere else to go but up), but he really doesn't need to shoot. He can get to the rim all he wants with his speed and great ball handling. Tony Parker is an exciting player to watch.

[Smith]

I gotta admit Tim Duncan is a jack of all trades. He is also incredibly deceptive in how a lot of his moves look or start similar.

A Tony Parker VS. Chris Paul matchup would be a unbelievable one to watch if it happens this year.

[Lemina]

Go Spurs Go!! You know I would cheer for my home team to the finals and repeat as champions!! It looks like it will be much more difficult this year. I admit the Spurs aren't where they should be by this time of year, but these two games with the Suns looked promising to me. I'll be taking it day by day, I hope we at least make it far into the playoffs, and hopefully into the finals.

[Depression]

Amazing how Tony can just get to the paint like that, he seriously looks like he's an agent in The Matrix the way he gets to the hoop.

I really don't know if they can beat the Hornets though, CP is playing out of his mind. Who makes their playoff debut by averaging 30+ PPG and 10+ APG !?!?

David West can stretch the floor as shown hitting all those open 15 footers. Chandler is a great hustle player/defender. And Paul is just an animal, he's like Tony Parker but can shoot and distribute better.

[Naraku]

Amazing how Tony can just get to the paint like that, he seriously looks like he's an agent in The Matrix the way he gets to the hoop.

I really don't know if they can beat the Hornets though, CP is playing out of his mind. Who makes their playoff debut by averaging 30+ PPG and 10+ APG !?!?

David West can stretch the floor as shown hitting all those open 15 footers. Chandler is a great hustle player/defender. And Paul is just an animal, he's like Tony Parker but can shoot and distribute better.

The Spurs play so much better defense than the Mavericks do, it'll be a completely different story.

[Depression]

I agree, Mavs are weaker by comparison but the Hornets are for real. How far they'll go I'm not sure, but I do know that they're ready for the playoffs more than any of us imagined they were.

[Naraku]

I agree, Mavs are weaker by comparison but the Hornets are for real. How far they'll go I'm not sure, but I do know that they're ready for the playoffs more than any of us imagined they were.

Agreed. Spurs-Hornets could easily be a seven game series.

[Smith]

The Spurs sure drove the Suns fans home. There were barely any fans in the front seats towards the end of the game. IMO anyone who beats the Spurs in the west have no excuse to win the NBA Championship.

[Rurouni Saiyan]

I caught that tonight, too. The way the kept fouling Shaq to get him to screw up the free-throws...pure genious :lol:

Although his free-throw prowess has been a running joke for about forever and a day.

[Naraku]

I don't know how Shaq hasn't gotten better over the years at free throws. I mean he's been in the league what 15 or so years now and no improvements?

Anyways, Magic up 3-1 now, hope they can finish it soon.

[Depression]

I heard he got pretty good at shooting freethrows underhand but wouldn't let his image take that kind of hit.

1 more game and LeBron can finally shutup Deshawn Stevenson. Gilbert had that awesome shot off the glass as he was falling down but bricked that shot to send it to OT. Delonte and Gibson were murdering it from deep in the 4th.

Jay-Z actually put out a song in response to Stevenson's shennanigans. One of the lines from it "This is chess; know the difference between a King and a pawn."

Pistons look to be back in control. They were down 10 at the half and staring down the possibility of being down 3-1 in the series but actually went from being down 10 to being up 10 in the 3rd quarter.

For some reason I'm still not completely sold on the Celtics.

Suns really pounded the Spurs, finally getting a win in. They really should of had that first game, and they just couldn't close in the 2nd half of the 2nd game. No team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in the playoffs but this year its kind of different. Its not as if this is a 3 seed facing a real 6 seed. Everybody outside of Houston and Denver would have been a top 4 seed team any other season. Odds are against them but there is a first time for everything.

Anybody know if Bynum is really going to come back in the playoffs or was that just blowing smoke?

[Haruhi]

Spurs wanna win at home. It's possible for the Suns to come back. But it's also possible I win the lottery.... without purchasing a ticket. Not going to happen. =P

And Dallas chokes again... the story of their lives.

[Naraku]

I heard he got pretty good at shooting freethrows underhand but wouldn't let his image take that kind of hit.

1 more game and LeBron can finally shutup Deshawn Stevenson. Gilbert had that awesome shot off the glass as he was falling down but bricked that shot to send it to OT. Delonte and Gibson were murdering it from deep in the 4th.

Jay-Z actually put out a song in response to Stevenson's shennanigans. One of the lines from it "This is chess; know the difference between a King and a pawn."

Pistons look to be back in control. They were down 10 at the half and staring down the possibility of being down 3-1 in the series but actually went from being down 10 to being up 10 in the 3rd quarter.

For some reason I'm still not completely sold on the Celtics.

Suns really pounded the Spurs, finally getting a win in. They really should of had that first game, and they just couldn't close in the 2nd half of the 2nd game. No team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in the playoffs but this year its kind of different. Its not as if this is a 3 seed facing a real 6 seed. Everybody outside of Houston and Denver would have been a top 4 seed team any other season. Odds are against them but there is a first time for everything.

Anybody know if Bynum is really going to come back in the playoffs or was that just blowing smoke?

You have to give Houston some credit, they are playing without Yao who is their best player, T-mac is playing hurt, and so is Rafer Alston. The Rockets are a very good team, but they just can't ever stay healthy. They are my favorite team so I root for them every game, even though I picked the Jazz to win the series.

And Dallas is so dissappointing. They have talent but they never step up, Dirk is the only consistent player. In my opinion they shouldn't have traded Devin Harris, he was basically their only paint threat and speed threat. I mean, Jason Terry is fast, but he is a jump shooter first and foremost. Dallas is a jump shooting team first and foremost, and when it doesn't work they lose. Noone on the team can really attack the paint.

[J.Mizuno]

Paul is eating Kidd alive. This cant be!!!! But its the reason Dallas is going to lose.

My Wizards were sooooooooooooooo close. but alast...the Caves win. They can win the one in Clevland if they play like they have nothing to lose...which is true

[Woooh]

My Wizards were sooooooooooooooo close. but alast...the Caves win. They can win the one in Clevland if they play like they have nothing to lose...which is true

I caught the end of this game. That 3 pointer was quite a heart breaker... for Wizard fans... It was an exciting 4th quarter though.

I'll stick to my Lakers.

[Depression]

You have to give Houston some credit, they are playing without Yao who is their best player, T-mac is playing hurt, and so is Rafer Alston. The Rockets are a very good team, but they just can't ever stay healthy. They are my favorite team so I root for them every game, even though I picked the Jazz to win the series.


I give them all the credit in the world, most of that 22 game win streak was without Yao. But I knew from the beginning they were only setting themselves up for disaapointment. If Yao was playing I would consider them a serious contender, but he isn't so there really isn't any point in doing so.

Lets face it without Yao they don't have a chance against a Boozer/Williams, Kobe/Gasol, Duncan/Parker, Amare/Nash, West/Paul, and they probably wouldn't even be able to beat Iverson/Melo in a series.

The Mavs live and die by Josh Howard. If he's off, its almost a guaranteed loss. 3-16 from the field speaks for itself.

[J.Mizuno]

Yao was key for the Rockets, but not there answer. T-Mac, Skip and Shane held the team together to get 22 wins in a row. But the playoffs is a whole other kind of beast. Look at Dallas last year (and this year for that matter) The Rockets lost alot of steam into the playoffs.

The Nuggets like the Suns/Wizards/Hawks caught a raw deal in the playoffs. The Lakers are just to strong to beat. Let alone beat them the whole series.

[Naraku]

Yao was key for the Rockets, but not there answer. T-Mac, Skip and Shane held the team together to get 22 wins in a row. But the playoffs is a whole other kind of beast. Look at Dallas last year (and this year for that matter) The Rockets lost alot of steam into the playoffs.

The Nuggets like the Suns/Wizards/Hawks caught a raw deal in the playoffs. The Lakers are just to strong to beat. Let alone beat them the whole series.

I don't think they really lost steam, it's just that their schedule got tougher at the end of the season. Most of the teams in that 22 game streak wasn't a contender. They are still a great defensive team, but all of their offensive threats are playing hurt, so they aren't as productive. I give the Rockets credit for taking a win on the road from the Jazz, but they just aren't healthy enough to win the series.

I like the Nuggets, but I would have rather of had the Warriors make the playoffs instead. It wouldn't matter who the Nuggets played, they can't beat any of the top teams in the west. They play no defense, and their offense can't carry them against good defensive teams.

[J.Mizuno]

I still think Lakers and Spurs will decide who will win the west. The Hornets vs. Jazz will be entertaining.

And might I add. This year has been the best playoffs in years. Ahhh! ^__^ makes me feel good. Plus 76ers might have a chance to beat the overrated Pistons. Lebron (-___- even if he's kicking my team ***) is amazing. The Hawks won big aganist the Celtics. The Lakers are back on top.
Chris Paul is amazing....(passed out)

[Naraku]

I still think Lakers and Spurs will decide who will win the west. The Hornets vs. Jazz will be entertaining.

And might I add. This year has been the best playoffs in years. Ahhh! ^__^ makes me feel good. Plus 76ers might have a chance to beat the overrated Pistons. Lebron (-___- even if he's kicking my team ***) is amazing. The Hawks won big aganist the Celtics. The Lakers are back on top.
Chris Paul is amazing....(passed out)

I'm pretty sure the Lakers would end up playing the Jazz, since the Jazz is the 5th seed, and the Lakers are the 1st.

[Woooh]

Lakers in 4!!!

For the other league, I'm currently rooting for the Hawks, I'd love to see them streak past the Celtics. However, if they lose, I really hope for a Celtics/Lakers reunion in the finals.

[J.Mizuno]

Oddly enough I know for a fact the Celtics will have a tough time aganist the Wizards or the Caves in round two. This isn't a good sign for the Celtics.

Lakers did their job and took care of the Nuggets. This just wasnt their year to do anything. And whos to say the Warriors would have done better.

[Naraku]

Oddly enough I know for a fact the Celtics will have a tough time aganist the Wizards or the Caves in round two. This isn't a good sign for the Celtics.

Lakers did their job and took care of the Nuggets. This just wasnt their year to do anything. And whos to say the Warriors would have done better.

The Warriors beat the Lakers in the regular season, as well as some of the other top teams.

Orlando wrapped up Toronto last night as well, glad to see them moving on.

[Smith]

The Sun does not rise in Phoenix.

[LOSTyears]

I actually feel kinda bad for Dirk this time around. Instead of rolling over like he usually has done he played pretty good in this series, just no one else (*cough* Terry, Howard) showed up with em on top of playing a much hungrier team with a dude who simply can't be stopped. Finishing em off with a triple double, show em mercy Chris. Kidd 5-10 years ago may of stood a chance against him, but this was still one of the worst moves in years. Avery might get the axe soon which is a shame cause its not a horrible team.

[J.Mizuno]

If the overrated chant need to be called its to Dallas. On paper they were better then the Hornets. Chris Paul is the reason I love point guards. Like Isiah Thomas, John Starks, John Stockton, Bob Couzy, Steve Nash, Allen Iverson, Chancy Billups, Jason Kidd...add that dude in the list of All around PG. (MY boy gilbert is 3 assist shy of being on that list damn)

Chris Paul made a C rated team look like some allstars. Not taking anything away from Peja, Tyson and West. He is doin what Nash did a couple years ago. This boy is a beast.

[Naraku]

Damn, great game Houston vs Utah so far.

Celtics are looking incredibly weak in the playoffs so far. They're going to need a game 7.

[ThePhillyFlash]

Who'd a thunk it? That the almighty Boston Celtics, annoited the next great thing in the NBA would be pushed to the brink of elimination by a 37 win team that had been a laughingstock for nearly a decade.

Big props to Atlanta who's shown more guts than I thought, hanging tough with the Celtics and giving them more fits than anyone expected, especially me as I predicted Boston would win in a sweep. Now it all boils down to game seven, and heaven only knows what could happen on Sunday as Atlanta is playing with house money while the Celtics' collective rear ends are so tight right now, you couldn't squeeze a molecule through the crack.

Even I don't have a horse in this race, I'll be pulling for the Hawks to shock the world tomorrow night.

[Depression]

Can't wait to see Paul face off against the Spurs. When are the Hornets going to ditch that tired logo of theirs anyways? They've already sported this patch on their unis, why not go for the switch entirely?

http://www.nba.com/media/hornets/092707_FleurdeBee_story.jpg

[neiru_3]

I hope the Spurs sweep the Hornets. No offense to Charlotte fans.

[Depression]

Well thats not going to happen =D.

19 point beatdown. I didn't watch the game, what happened to TD? He looked like a non factor from the stat sheet.

[Smith]

I hope the Spurs sweep the Hornets. No offense to Charlotte fans.

I'm just across the table. No offense to San Antonio fans. I just want to see Chris Paul take on the Lakers.

[neiru_3]

Yeah, won't happen. 4-1 is good enough. I guess.

[Depression]

Do you just not like the Hornets or are you a Spurs fan?

Rarely do I ever see Spurs fans outside of SA.

[Sushikins]

That was quite the blow out, though I was hoping the Hawks would win, as they would make an easier opponent for the Cavs.

Also, I think that is the first NBA game I ever watched start to finish.

[Depression]

Cavs aren't going to rollover. These two teams split the 4 games in the regular season.

They'll have to guard LeBron much like they did with Joe Johnson, only the Cavs have better three point shooters.

[J.Mizuno]

Got nothing much to say but this

Cavs-Celtics
Celtics in 6 games

Magic-Pistons
Pistons in 5 games

Lakers-Jazz
Lakers in 5 games

Spurs-Hornets
Spurs in 7 games, dont be suprised if the hornets win it in 6.

[neiru_3]

Do you just not like the Hornets or are you a Spurs fan?

Rarely do I ever see Spurs fans outside of SA.

I don't like the Hornets. Not really a Spurs fan, but I like their team a whole lot better than the Hornets. Paul just rubs me the wrong way. Good player though.

[ZechsMerquise1]

I don't like the Hornets. Not really a Spurs fan, but I like their team a whole lot better than the Hornets. Paul just rubs me the wrong way. Good player though.

You like the boring spurs :P haha their a good team though =D


btw I'm not a lakers fan BUT omgah KOBE is unstopable. MVP! It's funny how alot of people bash on kobe but bash him all you want, in the end...he's one of the best players right now...top 3 ofcourse. I want the lakers to go all the way woot!


AK-47 lol

[Depression]

Kobe is arguably the best player on the planet.

Its still absurd to think that Phoenix had to give up one of the best all around players in the league (Marion) for Shaq, the Mavs had to mortage their future and post defense (Diop/Harris) for Kidd, and all LA had to give up was Kwame Brown for an all star like Gasol!

[Depression]

LOL this is great, Paul is going street on the Spurs.

[Naraku]

The Spurs are playing terrible. They can't do anything offensively so far in the series. They are playing good enough defense, but just can't convert any baskets it seems. They've come out flat both of the second halfs.

[ThePhillyFlash]

The Spurs are playing terrible. They can't do anything offensively so far in the series. They are playing good enough defense, but just can't convert any baskets it seems. They've come out flat both of the second halfs.

I couldn't agree more. It's nothing short of, well, shocking to see the Spurs playing so poorly as they're being schooled big time by New Orleans, especially Chris Paul who's singlehandedly tearing the champs a new one. However, the series now shifts to San Antonio, let's see how the Hornets handle the pressure on enemy territory. If the Spurs don't recover, and recover fast, this series won't last very long.

[Smith]

Pau Gasol has to be the best big man that Phil Jackson has ever coached. I don't think I have ever seen many players dunk with such ease as Pau Gasol.

The Lakers are playing so well, as are the Hornets. If they do matchup next round, it'll be one of the most watched series ever in the NBA Playoffs. Good time to be a NBA fan.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Lol At Miami

[Depression]

Pau Gasol has to be the best big man that Phil Jackson has ever coached. I don't think I have ever seen many players dunk with such ease as Pau Gasol.

The Lakers are playing so well, as are the Hornets. If they do matchup next round, it'll be one of the most watched series ever in the NBA Playoffs. Good time to be a NBA fan.

Just imagine if they had Bynum. Gasol and Bynum together down low and Kobe everywhere else, brutal.

[Smith]

I absoultely forgot about Andrew Bynum. He's out for the whole playoffs? Next season Lakers could potentially win 70+ games..

[Woooh]

Lakers with 6 straight. I haven't enjoyed watching the Lakers this much since 3 or 4 years ago, nice to have my favorite team back at the top.

[Naraku]

I absoultely forgot about Andrew Bynum. He's out for the whole playoffs? Next season Lakers could potentially win 70+ games..

I don't know why, but I just can't picture them playing together, unless they made Bynum a garbage player like Lamar Odom basically, or made him come off the bench to spell Gasol. Gasol's game is so much better than Bynums, I don't really think that getting Bynum back would be that big of a lift, they don't really need him.

If I were Phil Jackson, I'd definitely make Bynum come off the bench though, but still play big minutes. He could play center when Gasol was out, and when they were both in, move to PF.

And Orlando got a win last night, a very convincing win at home - they look to be alive still. Hopefully Utah can get their wins at home now, I don't see them giving up, they are way too talented.

[Smith]

Fisher, Byrant, Odom, Gasol and Bynum. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Sure I can see a bit of rough chemistry at first with Bynum and Gasol, but I think it will work because Bynum likes the paint, getting physical, while Gasol is more of a 4, able to move around the court. I just feel Bynum has too much talent and too much to offer to come off the bench. Imagine Bynum and Gasol raining skyhooks all game long.

[Naraku]

Fisher, Byrant, Odom, Gasol and Bynum. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Sure I can see a bit of rough chemistry at first with Bynum and Gasol, but I think it will work because Bynum likes the paint, getting physical, while Gasol is more of a 4, able to move around the court. I just feel Bynum has too much talent and too much to offer to come off the bench. Imagine Bynum and Gasol raining skyhooks all game long.

I disagree, Gasol does most of his work in the post. He makes a better center than PF in my opinion, though he has played PF in the past. I would have no problem with Bynum coming off the bench. He could be like Manu Ginobli, Leandro Barbossa, or Jason Terry in those respects that he's still going to be an impact player, and have a major role, just doing it when the team needs a lift. He would make the Lakers bench even better, and it's already pretty good.

[Depression]

Gotta love Marv..

LEBRON JAMES WITH NO REGARD FOR HUMAN LIFE!

[Naraku]

Gah, Orlando is down 3-1 now. My pick isn't looking too good. At least Utah tied it up with the Lakers 2-2.

[ThePhillyFlash]

What in the hell is with Boston and their glaring inability to win on the road? First they went 0-for-Atlanta, now they're shooting themselves in the foot in Cleveland. This is flat out ridiculous!

:huh:

[Naraku]

^ I honestly hope Boston loses to Cleveland. They are playing terrible in the post season. I credit it to bad coaching and decision making really. The Boston 3 Party aren't getting enough shots, and it's really hurting them. I still want Orlando to win the east, they are basically the only team that I like, but it looks like Detroit might be the team to beat.

[LOSTyears]

Not just Boston, besides Detroit its been tough to win away for each bracket this round. Hopfully Lakers will pull through cause they looked very beatable, scary thing is Jazz can do it.

LEBRON JAMES WITH NO REGARD FOR HUMAN LIFE!RAW POWER baby! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vU5Xj8Ct1F4)KG wants no part of that.
I mean seriously how you stop that.

[J.Mizuno]

The way it looks, Detriot and Cleveland can play again. God, I hope not.

[Depression]

I think Boston might have been playing their A game during the season, now that its the post season everybody else has stepped up their game but they don't have any more gears to shift into.

In other news, the Hornets once again smashed the Spurs in the 3rd quarter.

[Smith]

Sunday. Celtics. Cavailers. Game. Seven. Boston.

If the C's flinch, LeBron will snatch the game IMO.

[LOSTyears]

Its strange but I think Detroit has a better shot against Boston than they do the Cavs. Anyway I'll be root'n for Bron on Sunday and the Hornets on Monday. If all goes well I'll be getting the west finals that I wanted ^_^

[Depression]

I would agree with you LOST.

Prince could shut down Pierce. Rondo would be abused by Chauncey on offense and defense. Allen just isn't even a factor lately, Rip is inhuman and doesn't get tired so he could stick on Ray like glue and not let him catch and shoot which is all he does anymore. And Detroit has plenty of bigs to defend against KG in McDyess, Maxiell, Sheed, and Ratliff.

[Smith]

I would agree with you LOST.

Prince could shut down Pierce. Rondo would be abused by Chauncey on offense and defense. Allen just isn't even a factor lately, Rip is inhuman and doesn't get tired so he could stick on Ray like glue and not let him catch and shoot which is all he does anymore. And Detroit has plenty of bigs to defend against KG in McDyess, Maxiell, Sheed, and Ratliff.

Sam I Am Cassell. We all know how dangerous Sam Cassell is in crunch time.

[J.Mizuno]

The King and The Truth been back and forth the whole series. KG has been great but fell asleep once or twice, but I'm mad as hell at Jesus(Ray Allen's name in He Got Game). Your allstar in the season and not one in post season. He's always been that way, with the Bucks and Sonics. I have The Celtics winning tomorrow.

First thing first, The Spurs forwards have been playing dirty. I think Horry was in the wrong. Now as for this next game. Who's gonna be the third quater team. Whoever wins the 3rd won the game. I'm rooting for the Spurs but the Hornets should win. I love Chris Paul.

[Smith]

Tonight, game SEVEN, Spurs and Hornets. I'll be rooting for the Hornets. I want to see Chris Paul make Phil Jackson grimace.

[Naraku]

Thank you San Antonio! Hornets had a good run, but I never thought they'd make it to the Finals. Unfortunately the Jazz won't be playing the Spurs like I thought.. hopefully the Lakers can win the West now though.

[Depression]

The Mamba will not be denied.

[LOSTyears]

Please Kobe *looks to the sky* crush this boring dynasty so you may get your revenge against Detroit in the Finals..... yes I am implying that Boston will be destroyed.

[Depression]

I don't even consider the Spurs a dynasty. The hardest thing to do is repeat, something they've never done.

Threepeat Lakers destroyed them during their reign. Beat the Lakers in 2003, but only to lose to them again in 2004. 2005 they won again, only to lose to the MAVS the next year.

[Naraku]

I don't even consider the Spurs a dynasty. The hardest thing to do is repeat, something they've never done.

Threepeat Lakers destroyed them during their reign. Beat the Lakers in 2003, but only to lose to them again in 2004. 2005 they won again, only to lose to the MAVS the next year.

What do they have? 4 in 10 years? That's a dynasty in my book. They're also a top contender every single season.

[Depression]

If you're going to count the one with David Robinson, then you're including the timespan in which the Lakers went for three in a row.

How can you be considered a dynasty within a time frame where a different team put up a threepeat (where they happened to get swept by the Lakers at that).

They're one of the best teams of the last decade no doubt, but dynasty? ehhh.

[Smith]

The Mamba will not be denied.

The Mamba shan't be denied. This time the cast he has around him is beastly. I have a hard time seeing Kobe average anything less than 40 for this series. He's just going to will baskets in. Doesn't matter if Bruce Bowen is breathing down his neck. This is the kind of challenge and stage Kobe has been waiting for all season. It's going to be glorious. 6 games. Lakers.

Now the Celtics got a lot to overcome after playing 2 straight game sevens, but I still like em, although Ray Allen needs to snap out of whatever state he is in and start thinking buckets. Sportscenter said it well last night. "The Celtics win even with Ray Allen scoring 4 points."

[Lemina]

Yeah, I expect people hating the Spurs here in AN. It doesn't matter who they play, people will always go against them it seems. It's sad, but true. I'm glad they've made it to the Western Conference finals yet again. We have another shot at winning the championship. Even if we didn't win the championship this year, I think 4 championships in 9 seasons is dynasty material. The Spurs know how to go all the way.

[Naraku]

Yeah, I expect people hating the Spurs here in AN. It doesn't matter who they play, people will always go against them it seems. It's sad, but true. I'm glad they've made it to the Western Conference finals yet again. We have another shot at winning the championship. Even if we didn't win the championship this year, I think 4 championships in 9 seasons is dynasty material. The Spurs know how to go all the way.

Agreed, people love to hate the Spurs, noone gives them the credit they deserve - and I'm not even a fan of the team really.

To Depression, when the Lakers were good they were good no doubt. However, once they lost Shaq they became a doormat for everyone else. The Lakers have not been a good team until this year. The Spurs on the other hand, like I said, have been a top contender every year, for years now. Since they got Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobli, even more so.

Edit- I'd like the Lakers to go to the Finals to meet the Pistons, but I'd rather the Spurs win the whole thing now just to give the Spurs haters something to think about.

[emotoaster]

Celtics Cavs game 7 was intense. I don't really follow basket ball until the playoffs and the Final Four. Pulling for the Celtics, but you wonder if they can win it all with their road record so far, and all these Game 7's have got to be taking a toll on them.

NBA needs Lakers/Celtics Final IMO though. I for one would love to see that series especially do to the fact that Detroit and San Antonio have been dominating the league the last few years, and because of how bad they were last year.

[Depression]

To Depression, when the Lakers were good they were good no doubt. However, once they lost Shaq they became a doormat for everyone else. The Lakers have not been a good team until this year. The Spurs on the other hand, like I said, have been a top contender every year, for years now. Since they got Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobli, even more so.


What does that matter? I never said their dynasty lasted to the present day. They had a threepeat. A string of years where nobody could touch them. Obviously when they lost to the Spurs, Pistons, and lost Shaq the dynasty was over.

1950's Lakers
1960's Celtics
1980's Lakers and Celtics
1990's Bulls
2000's Lakers

These teams had the league in the palm of their hand for consecutive seasons. When have the Spurs ever done that?

Yeah, I expect people hating the Spurs here in AN. It doesn't matter who they play, people will always go against them it seems. It's sad, but true. I'm glad they've made it to the Western Conference finals yet again. We have another shot at winning the championship. Even if we didn't win the championship this year, I think 4 championships in 9 seasons is dynasty material. The Spurs know how to go all the way.

Its just the nature of sports. You win too much and you're going to attract haters. People hate the Patriots. During the 90's a few of my friends were pretty big Bulls fans, but during their second threepeat they actually got tired of them winning and were rooting for the Jazz.

[Naraku]

What does that matter? I never said their dynasty lasted to the present day. They had a threepeat. A string of years where nobody could touch them. Obviously when they lost to the Spurs, Pistons, and lost Shaq the dynasty was over.

1950's Lakers
1960's Celtics
1980's Lakers and Celtics
1990's Bulls
2000's Lakers

These teams had the league in the palm of their hand for consecutive seasons. When have the Spurs ever done that?

I'm saying the dynasty belongs to the Spurs, and not the Lakers because they have been more consistantly dominant than the Lakers have over the years. Consistancy! The Spurs have been great for about 10 years now, the Lakers were good for a few years, then hardly first round material for what? about 4 years, and are just now good again. I give the Lakers credit for what they did, but all I'm saying is that the Spurs have been better longer. The Spurs have been a top contender season after season.

[Depression]

I'm saying the dynasty belongs to the Spurs, and not the Lakers
This is where you're getting confused.

It was never about who deserves to be called a dynasty between the Lakers and the Spurs over the last 10 years. Its simply fact that the Lakers were a dynasty. The question at hand is whether or not the Spurs were also one. If a team wins three in a row its not up for debate. Its only been done 4 times (outside Boston going for 8 in a row).

but all I'm saying is that the Spurs have been better longer

I'm saying you can't say they've been great for 10 years in which the Lakers won three in a row. Its like you're saying the Spurs were great for 10 years minus three?

You emphasize consistency, but its almost a contradiction to include the 99 Spurs because of the three year gap due to the Lakers. The only thing consistent among those years was not winning championships.

The Pistons have been to the conference finals six years in a row, nobody would consider them a dynasty. Being highly competitive for consecutive years is one thing, winning championships consecutively is another.


the Lakers were good for a few years, then hardly first round material for what? about 4 years

You can't discredit a threepeat by what happens afterwards. Three in a row is three in a row.

They weren't even that bad. They met the Spurs in the conference finals the year after. After that they made it to the Finals (in which they beat the Spurs in the Conference Finals at that) and lost to the Pistons.

The state the Lakers are in right now has nothing to do with how the Lakers earlier in the decade are to be perceived. Lets say the Lakers win it all this year. I wouldn't group this win with the 99'-02' team.

Just the same it would probably be more logical to argue that the Spurs were a dynasty over the last 5 years. 3 wins in 5 years rather than 4 in the last 9. The 99' Spurs were pretty much a completely different team outside of Duncan.

[Naraku]

This is where you're getting confused.

It was never about who deserves to be called a dynasty between the Lakers and the Spurs over the last 10 years. Its simply fact that the Lakers were a dynasty. The question at hand is whether or not the Spurs were also one. If a team wins three in a row its not up for debate. Its only been done 4 times (outside Boston going for 8 in a row).



I'm saying you can't say they've been great for 10 years in which the Lakers won three in a row. Its like you're saying the Spurs were great for 10 years minus three?

You emphasize consistency, but its almost a contradiction to include the 99 Spurs because of the three year gap due to the Lakers. The only thing consistent among those years was not winning championships.

The Pistons have been to the conference finals six years in a row, nobody would consider them a dynasty. Being highly competitive for consecutive years is one thing, winning championships consecutively is another.




You can't discredit a threepeat by what happens afterwards. Three in a row is three in a row.

They weren't even that bad. They met the Spurs in the conference finals the year after. After that they made it to the Finals (in which they beat the Spurs in the Conference Finals at that) and lost to the Pistons.

The state the Lakers are in right now has nothing to do with how the Lakers earlier in the decade are to be perceived. Lets say the Lakers win it all this year. I wouldn't group this win with the 99'-02' team.

Just the same it would probably be more logical to argue that the Spurs were a dynasty over the last 5 years. 3 wins in 5 years rather than 4 in the last 9. The 99' Spurs were pretty much a completely different team outside of Duncan.


If you don't want to acknowledge the Spurs accomplishments, then that is your problem. They've been a dominant team over the years.

[LOSTyears]

Wow -_-; I drop the word dynasty and a one page argument insues. I'll choose my words more carefully next time. I understand what Depression's saying, consecutive titles with a minimum 3-peat formula. Everyone seems to have there own definition of dynasty, me personally i go by a 4 year rule. Winning 2 consecutive skip a year add one or vice versa is good enough for me. Reason I adapted this is cause of the Cowboys of the 90's, not calling that team a dynasty cause of the 3-peat formula would be downright tragic :(
Anyway, let me change it to Spurs regime instead seeing how they were sporadically successful over the decade. Yeah thats better, I hope Kobe squashes the BORING Spurs regime :P

[emotoaster]

woo woo Celtics took game one and looked pretty good. Lets just hope this momentum carries them all the way through Detroit.

[Depression]

http://man-vs-wild.org/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/mamba.jpg

[LOSTyears]

He's was a man on a mission tonight, risky move waiting for the 2nd half especially with Duncan having a monster night on top of that deficit. Only he could pull that off.

[Depression]

Winning 2 consecutive skip a year add one or vice versa is good enough for me.

It is a subjective term. I would consider a repeat, skip, and a win one as well. But the Spurs haven't done that either.

[ZechsMerquise1]

The celtics might just go down the path of the patriots :P xD jk but anyways, didnt the Lakers 03 Finals (I think 03 or 04) already prove that "OMGAH we got 3 all star vets, we gonna win for sure"

lolwut? the lakers lost, cause they were just focusing on getting more all star vets, instead of working better together as a team. Wasn't shaq, kobe, malone, j williams, and someone else. But yeah I doubt the celtics will win the finals, or even go to the finals.


Anyways, pau and kobe make a great duo =D

[Depression]

^ Ironically enough, it was the Pistons that stopped that team.

They didn't have 3 all star vets, they had 4 future hall of fame players. (Malone, Payton, Shaq, Kobe).

[ZechsMerquise1]

^ Ironically enough, it was the Pistons that stopped that team.

They didn't have 3 all star vets, they had 4 future hall of fame players. (Malone, Payton, Shaq, Kobe).

Oh yeah Gary too xD but yeah they had to work together in order to beat the pistons

[LOSTyears]

The celtics might just go down the path of the patriots :P xD jk but anyways, didnt the Lakers 03 Finals (I think 03 or 04) already prove that "OMGAH we got 3 all star vets, we gonna win for sure"Very similar situation and one of the reasons I think most had their doubts for the Celtics. The one thing Paul, KG and Ray have in common is great season performances and little to no playoff success. Paul continues to overwork to make up for teammates, Ray pulls constant vanishing acts and KG still relys on jumpers and o-lay D when you need em. You put them together you ask the question does this really change anything.

As much as I would like to see Kobe lay the smack on Detroit, there is a little piece of me that wants Boston to make it just so they can fall on the big stage just like their footbal counterparts :D

[Depression]

^

You see a full stadium in green cheering knowing half those people didn't know who Rondo was the year before.

[emotoaster]

^That does suck, and honestly I'm not a big Celtics fan, but I would really like to see them win. Especially after the hell of a season they've had.

[J.Mizuno]

What the hell man! Who dropped the D word without proof. Depression is 100% right.

[J.Mizuno]

^

You see a full stadium in green cheering knowing half those people didn't know who Rondo was the year before.

true, you see this all the time. But NBA wants teams like LA, NY, Boston, Detriot...these big time sports towns to have good players. Which is why despite the Knicks sucking for 6 years straight, there still in the mouths of everyone.

[ZechsMerquise1]

^

You see a full stadium in green cheering knowing half those people didn't know who Rondo was the year before.

Lolwut? That's exactly what happened to the warriors. "Omgah a team near us just went to the playoffs, oh s*** I'm a hardcore fan now" Lol at the bandwagon fans.

And lol at the "We believe" shirts >_> More than half those people wearing them didnt "believe" back when we had 5-7 game losing streaks.. and when we had speedy claxton and other old players etc. Sorry they just piss me off ;__;

[Chyropraise]

Very similar situation and one of the reasons I think most had their doubts for the Celtics. The one thing Paul, KG and Ray have in common is great season performances and little to no playoff success. Paul continues to overwork to make up for teammates, Ray pulls constant vanishing acts and KG still relys on jumpers and o-lay D when you need em. You put them together you ask the question does this really change anything.

As much as I would like to see Kobe lay the smack on Detroit, there is a little piece of me that wants Boston to make it just so they can fall on the big stage just like their footbal counterparts :D

KG has never really been a prolific scorer. He gets you a double-double every game though. Paul Pierce, Ray and KG had good games last night. All had over 50% shooting which is good. Boston's bench never showed up which is one reason they lost. 8 points from their bench. Compared to 17 from Detroit. With Sam Cassell out I don't see how Boston can win this series unless Eddie House and Posey help when KG, Pierce and Ray are on the bench. Also Celtics defense was off last night. They are one of the best defenses in the league. They shouldn't ever allow more then 100 points a game.

[Depression]

Its like Rip said in the press conference, they kept their offense in motion. They never let somebody catch the ball and let the Celtics setup their defense, they forced the Celtics to react on the go.

Now Boston has to win on the road or its over. Should be interesting.

[Depression]

Lakers aren't playing around, fact.

[Smith]

Lakers aren't playing around, fact.

When they have Fisher and Odom rolling like they did tonight, no one's going to stop them. IMO Odom is unstoppable when he's on his game.

[LOSTyears]

IMO Odom is unstoppable when he's on his game.Yeah he is pretty hard to stop when he's in the zone like that, he has been one of the more underappreciated role players over the years. Even before Gasol came on board when him and Kobe were on cue Lakers are pretty hard to beat. And tonight was a straight @ss whoopin.
Lets see if they can grab one on the road.

[Depression]

Reminds me of Vince Carter in the sense that he isn't entirely comfortable being that guy.

He has all star talent, but seems to be much more comfortable at a role player's level.

[Smith]

Reminds me of Vince Carter in the sense that he isn't entirely comfortable being that guy.

He has all star talent, but seems to be much more comfortable at a role player's level.

And it seems with the addition of Gasol, he seems more and more comfortable, and less of a 'Batman and Robin' feel next to Kobe. Kobe's going to be on a mission in San Antonio. Kenny, Charles, Magic were joking after the game how there was not going to be a game 5 in the series. Wouldn't surprise me the way the Lakers have been rolling. Luke Walton's lob oop to Odom was sickness, and guaranteed top 10 plays of the week in ESPN.

Tomorrow's game between Boston and Detroit may very well decide the rest of the series between the two.

[Depression]

Lolwut? That's exactly what happened to the warriors. "Omgah a team near us just went to the playoffs, oh s*** I'm a hardcore fan now" Lol at the bandwagon fans.

And lol at the "We believe" shirts >_> More than half those people wearing them didnt "believe" back when we had 5-7 game losing streaks.. and when we had speedy claxton and other old players etc. Sorry they just piss me off ;__;

Want to know the worst part? Just last year the Boston fans were chanting MVP for Kobe lol.

[Smith]

I root for the Blazers, my hometown team. If they aren't playing, I ain't watching. All seriousness aside, this is looking to be a good game, Maxiell's no-no from behind sure got KG riled up.

[Depression]

Good ending tonight.

Refs were really favoring the Spurs the first half, good to see a no call at the end there. If its one thing I hate about this game its when people try getting bailed out by the refs and jump into the defender.

Like the TNT crew was saying, if he had jumped into Fisher while he was still in the air it would have been called but he decided to put the ball back on the floor.

Even so, the shot clock should have been reset before on that earlier possession.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Hmm I remember hearing about some ref getting convicted or w.e for being a crook.

[LOSTyears]

Black Mamba will go for the kill in 5, I still think he injected his venom in game 1. That wasn't a home game for the Spurs but that loss had to be somewhat demoralizing, to have your best player coast for more than half the game putting it on the shoulders of his team and then scoffing at a 20 lead rallying ftw. Dropping a 30 point deuce on them next go around, then surviving their last ditch rally at home.
Man this guy has even excelled his game at the psychological level.

[Depression]

Amazing thing is that he had 28 points, ZERO FT attempts. He's only had 6 attempts the entire series I believe. Pop really doesn't want to send him to the line.

[Woooh]

That was definitely a foul, whether it was shooting or not.

But, I'll take it.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Amazing thing is that he had 28 points, ZERO FT attempts. He's only had 6 attempts the entire series I believe. Pop really doesn't want to send him to the line.

MVP :) he deserved it! kobe's hard working, and very motivated to go finals again!

[Dj_Saito]

spurs are gonna make a comeback!! 3-2 coming up! Its early.....so more in depth analysis coming up later before the game....

[J.Mizuno]

I doubt the Spurs will come back, but they are the champs so they're not going out without a fight. But it seems that the fat lady is getting warmed up. You see the reason the Spurs are down 3-1 is because they let it happen. They didnt go in for the kill in game 1 or 4. The Lakers are playing cut throat and they smell blood right now. So if the Spurs are going to win this next game two things must happen. If they have a 8 point lead...KEEP IT! and two Manu isn't 100% stop running plays for him, you have 3 others role players that can do it. (I.E Horry or Barry). But Like i said, Phil Jackson got this team feelin' bulletproof, so they ending in LA tonight.

[Naraku]

Good ending tonight.

Refs were really favoring the Spurs the first half, good to see a no call at the end there. If its one thing I hate about this game its when people try getting bailed out by the refs and jump into the defender.

Like the TNT crew was saying, if he had jumped into Fisher while he was still in the air it would have been called but he decided to put the ball back on the floor.

Even so, the shot clock should have been reset before on that earlier possession.

It's not getting bailed out, it's called smart basketball. Illegal contact is a foul. The play was definitely a foul, but since Brent Barry is not a superstar, the refs aren't going to call it.

[Smith]

Barry was not fouled in the act of shooting. He clearly shot after contact. Either way, I don't wish to see the Spurs win. Booooring basketball, no offense to hardcore Spurs fans. Respected but not wanted.

[Naraku]

Barry was not fouled in the act of shooting. He clearly shot after contact. Either way, I don't wish to see the Spurs win. Booooring basketball, no offense to hardcore Spurs fans. Respected but not wanted.

Yes he was, if I remember correctly. I don't remember him putting the ball on the floor after the contact. He dribbled into Fisher, who was in the air, then got the ball up without dribbling again. The Lakers should have won the game, but it was still a foul in the act of shooting.

[Depression]

http://i32.tinypic.com/8vvq4m.jpg

I'll agree that it should have been a foul, but not three. You could even say he traveled, look how he moves his pivot foot.

[Naraku]

http://i32.tinypic.com/8vvq4m.jpg

I'll agree that it should have been a foul, but not three. You could even say he traveled, look how he moves his pivot foot.

It wasn't a travel, he only took two steps. I still think it's a three foul, he didn't put the ball back on the floor after the contact.

The Lakers should have won though, the ball did hit the rim before.

[Smith]

The Spurs aren't going to the finals this year. WHOO Lakers! Tomorrow night's gm 6 between Boston and Detroit's going to be tight.

[emotoaster]

Way To Go Celtics!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[LOSTyears]

June 5th baby! the old rivalry Lakers/Celtics.
Boston actually showed signs of what they were suppose to be in that series though Paul was still putting up most of the work, doubt it'll matter though :P
I'm going to thoroughly enjoy watching another Boston team blow chunks on the big stage, compliments from the best player on the planet.

[Depression]

PLEASE let Ray Allen guard Kobe!

[J.Mizuno]

Thank you god, neither the born *** Spurs or the vanilla *** Pistons are in the finals.

This is gonna be great now that the NBA has the finals they always wanted.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Thank you god, neither the born *** Spurs or the vanilla *** Pistons are in the finals.

This is gonna be great now that the NBA has the finals they always wanted.

I sweat, if detriot and SA went to the finals, it would've been SUPER boring >_>

@Depression
how do you make GIFs like that? What program D:

[J.Mizuno]

My friend was like, if either one made it to the finals he was going to kill himself. He was gonna put a gun in his mouth and say **** it. LOL.

[emotoaster]

Haters can be quite now, Pierce is serious!

[Naraku]

Damn it Lakers! Pull it together. I can't believe they won game three, it was basically Kobe by himself, with a little help from Vujocic.

Gasol and Odom need to show up, or the Lakers could be in some serious trouble. I just don't think Kobe can carry the Lakers against such a talented team like the Celtics.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Omgah, Lakers were up by 20 in the 1st half @_@ still lost =x

[ThePhillyFlash]

Regarding last night's game:

DAAAAAAAAAAAAAMN!!

I turned off the TV halfway through the second quarter when the Lakers were kicking Boston's rear end up and down the court, figuring this game was in L.A.'s back pocket. But when I went online this morning and read that the Celtics staged perhaps THE biggest comeback in NBA Finals history, I was stunned. Not that I'm complaining as I have no love for Kobe and want him to lose, I just didn't think he'd lose last night. Wow!

:w00t:

[ZechsMerquise1]

PASS IT TO KOBE! lol
It's not OVER yet.

[emotoaster]

All Kobe does is *****. Some MVP he is. He had about 16 pts. in game 3 or 4. How can you do that in LA during the FINALS. Can we stop comparing him to MJ. James as well. NO ONE will ever be the next MJ.

Anyway Boston is kicking *** but lets just hope they don't slack off tonight and end this series early.

[Smith]

I get a feeling Kobe's going into 'Assasin' mode tonight. If not, bye-bye Lakers.

[ZechsMerquise1]

All Kobe does is *****. Some MVP he is. He had about 16 pts. in game 3 or 4. How can you do that in LA during the FINALS. Can we stop comparing him to MJ. James as well. NO ONE will ever be the next MJ.

Anyway Boston is kicking *** but lets just hope they don't slack off tonight and end this series early.

He had 36 points in game 3, and 17 points in game 4. Do you even watch the games? In the 1st half he lets other people score, then he takes over in the 2nd half.

[emotoaster]

Ok I'm soooooooooooooooory got it wrong by 1 point. And yeah thats a great cover I'm sure he takes over once he's done ripping his team out on the court and giving them death glares. If he really wanted to win every game wouldn't he try to "take over" in the 1st half especially since it looks like he doesn't like his teammates AT ALL.

And yes I've watched every game but game 4, which sucks since it was a really good one. And Smith does 'Assassin mode' mean he's finally going to kill Vujacic?

[LOSTyears]

Black Mamba needs to be an Assasin mode from here on out every minute.
Kobe needs Gasol to match Odom like that if they want to do the impossible.
All eyes on game 6, if this goes 7 the ratings are going to be off the charts.

Can we stop comparing him to MJ. James as well. NO ONE will ever be the next MJ.I couldn't agree with you more. Comparisons do a great discourtesy to the players from each eras. Different time, competition and level all together. MJ was ther best in his age and Kobe is the best now and it should be left at that.

[Depression]

MJ would never let a these leads disappear in the 4th.

Another thing that puts MJ over the top is that he and the Bulls are one of the few teams who have multiple championships without a dominant big. Hakeem, Kareem, Shaq, Duncan, these guys win championships, MJ had Longley lol.

But I will say that I think Kobe is a more potent offensive threat than MJ was.

[Smith]

I remember reading about the 72-10 season MJ had with the Bulls. They had a number of games where they were down 15, 20 points with 5 minutes to go, and Michael says to himself and his teammates, 'I can't let this happen'. Need I explain the rest?

Going to be VERY interesting in Boston for game 6.

[LOSTyears]

^Not really :( Did Kobe & friends forget this was do or die time *sighs* very disappointing, I mean they were completely overwhelmed. I tip my hat to P. Pierce, dude was a beast this whole playoff run.

Well I still think my Kobe leaving theroy has been debunked but the question now is what else do they need if anything.

[Rurouni Saiyan]

CELTICS WIN!!!!
CELTICS WIN!!!!
CELTICS WIN!!!!

[Smith]

VERY INTERESTING!!!! LOL I stopped watching and started playing on XBL and glancing at the tv midway through the 3rd quarter.. It didnt look good in the first either. I always felt Boston was the better team, but supported the Lakers. Dare I say REPEAT for the Celtics?

[emotoaster]

Haters want to hate
Lovers want to love
I don't even want none of the above

KICK *** JOB BOSTON! Now lets go for a repeat!

[Depression]

I would have rather had the Spurs win again than to see all those fake Celtic fans celebrating and singing with 4 minutes left like they've had their team's back for years.

Glad KG and Allen got theirs though. I could care less about Pierce.

I view them a lot like I did the Heat when they won. In for the quick win and its back to rebuilding. Unless the Celtics repeat it could get ugly for them again fast in the coming years much like the Heat. But unlike the Heat, they don't have have a Wade as a foundation.

[ThePhillyFlash]

What a terribly anti-climatic finish as Kobe and the rest of the Lackers just plain didn't show up last night. To lose an elimination game by 39 was flat out embarrassing. Kudos to the Celtics for taking care of business and winning the title.

[Lemina]

I still can't get over the fact that the Spurs got cheated on. The tables could've been turned if the Spurs were allowed to shoot their free throws and go to overtime in Game 4 of the Western Finals if the officials did their job correctly. Derek Fisher should've been fouled after making contact on Brent Barry at the end of the game. Even the NBA admitted their mistake. If the Spurs had won game 4, the series would've been tied and then the Spurs would have another opportunity to play in SA for Game 6. I can't complain though because the Lakers still won and thought they played better than SA. The Spurs had their chances to win. But still, I think the NBA should really take a look at their officiating. They made a really bad mistake. Unfair!!

Oh well, now we have next year to win it!! Old numbered years favor the Spurs!! Can I say 5th NBA title?!? Of course they really need to bring new players to the mix. Congrats Celtics, Garnet and Alan deserved it. It was cool to see their reaction after seeing them win.

[DAM8024]

CELTICS WIN!!!!
CELTICS WIN!!!!
CELTICS WIN!!!!

I second that!!!!

I don't usually discuss NBA on an anime board but here goes.

Awesome win for our team in green and such a historic dream matchup with the Celtics/Lakers. I'm really happy I finally got to see the Celtics win one. I watched the Celtics in the early 90s when Larry Bird was on the downside of his career and than I gave up on them for many years until Pitino came in. After he drove the organization into the ground, I stopped watching again until a few years ago.

The Celtics were a fun team to watch even a few years ago except they didn't play any defense. Tom Thibodeau quickly turned that around and he should get all the credit for that and the Celtics should give him a blank check.

Every team has bandwagoners. It's natural. I don't think the Spurs had as many fans before their dynasty run or when it was mostly about David Robinson. I will say the Celtics like many teams have a good share of hardcore fans who have stuck with the team through the hard times.

Pierce is the captain and heart of the Celtics team and has been for many years. He deserves the ring just as much as KG and Allan.

The Celtics management is making better moves now and they will make more during the offseason to ensure that they will competitive next year. As for the Spurs, they are a good team though they are getting older. I think we would have had more trouble with the Spurs than the Lakers.

[monetmelly]

that last game was a masacre. What a waste