The 2009 NBA Playoffs

[Hisoka]

Some good games and some blowouts this past weekend.

As a Celtics hater, I enjoyed the hell out of game 1 against the Bulls on Saturday. The game was fantastic and so close from start to finish. Rose put on such a performance and it's so hard to believe that he's only in his first year. The calmness that he plays with is so rare for someone his age. Watching Paul Pierce clank at the free throw line brought a smile to my face and while I really like Kevin Garnett, I'm not sad that he's sitting out. :P

Nuggets-Hornets is going to be a very physical series and I see it going the distance with the home team probably having the edge in each game. Billups was money from 3 point land last night. I'll have a lot of fun with this one since watching Billups and Paul is a joy.

Rockets-Blazers. Maybe the Rockets finally get out of the first round? I didn't expect them to crush the Blazers on the road at all. I'm not afraid to say that I fully believe they're a better team without TMac. Seems like most "experts" are afraid to utter those words. If you play through Yao Ming and play tough defense you have a chance to win every game. Of course the Blazers are going to come back strong after such a beat down. Not sure if they're ready yet though.

Lakers-Jazz. The last game of the regular season said it all. The Jazz just aren't what they were last year when they played the Lakers really tough. I see this series ending in 5 games at the most. They might be able to get a home game. Lakers are fully loaded and looked like they were just toying with them. Ariza + Bynum this year compared to last. It's a major difference.

Sixers-Orlando. Okay, I think SVG blew this game. He looked so worried on the sidelines and the lead they built up vanished before you knew it. Orlando is a very good team and they'll most likely win the series, but they lack a leader and it shows. As for the Sixers, they really don't have much to lose. Just like what I said about TMac, I think this team is so much better without Elton Brand. Yes, he's a good player but this was a horrible fit. They couldn't figure out how to make it work and he slowed up the game. He goes out with an injury and they start playing the way they did last year. It won't win you a championship, but it gives you a better chance in the first round. Also... pass the ball to Howard!

Cavs-Pistons. Like every year, the Cavs get an easy first round opponent. The Pistons packed it in long ago and were lucky to stay in the 8th spot. I see this being a sweep and would be very surprised if they let up and allowed the Pistons to steal one. They clearly want to keep up with the Lakers.

Mavs-Spurs. A very good job by the Mavs in game one getting a game on the road. The Spurs aren't going to lay down, but they aren't at full strength and age is showing. The Mavs were so lucky to avoid the Lakers and got hot at the perfect time. Dirk looks like MVP Dirk again and the rest of the guys have been showing up as of late. Still, can't count out the Spurs and Greg Popovich since he's a master and making adjustments. They just haven't been able to defend as good as years past.

Hawks-Heat. Heat got killed and I was a little surprised by that. I think this one could go down to the wire since Wade can win some games all on his own. But he chose a bad night to have a terrible game. They just couldn't get going and the Atlanta crowd was fantastic. Josh Smith was catching just about everything Bibby was throwing up. Pretty awesome to have a guy like that on your team.

Tonight on TNT
Celtics-Bulls Game 2
Mavs-Spurs Game 2

[LOSTyears]

Gotta have Game 2 for game 1 momentum to really count.
Magic's really the only team that should be genuinely embarrassed. Though I do find it amusing to see the Celts getting spanked by Ben G. and some former Kings lol, should be an interesting contest all together.

Anyway, like last year I'm pulling for the Lakers/Cavs matchup. Seems to be the general consensus.

[ThePhillyFlash]

Well, as a Sixers fan, I was shocked that they won Sunday night as I figured on them getting swept. Orlando's total breakdown on defense in the fourth quarter cost them that game, no way a veteran team coughs up an 18 point lead and loses like the Magic had. Now to see if Orlando will make adjustments for game two tomorrow night.

[Hisoka]

It would have been great if the Bulls won game 2. They were so so close. The Bulls probably aren't going to win the series, but I'll give them credit for playing together and not being intimidated. However, Boston appears to be even more beat up now. Spurs were able to make some major adjustment as predicted. Mavs seemed cool with a split.

Tonight
Cavs-Pistons Game 2 (TNT)
Rockets-Blazers Game 2 (NBA TV)
Lakers-Jazz Game 2 (TNT)


Anyway, like last year I'm pulling for the Lakers/Cavs matchup. Seems to be the general consensus.

I wouldn't mind seeing it and it might very well happen. Have to say though, I hated the regular season games between these two teams. It became 100% Kobe vs LeBron. It would be different on the floor in the Finals, but the media hype would probably make me want to vomit. :lol:

Well, as a Sixers fan, I was shocked that they won Sunday night as I figured on them getting swept.

Magic will be pissed in the next game and rightfully so. Sixers might be able to get in another home game. They play with heart and don't give up. If that hail mary doesn't go in... we'll leave it at that.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Kobe for mvp =D even though Lebron is doin ok =[

[Hisoka]

Heh, it's going to be LeBron. He was even runner up for defensive player of the year.

I enjoyed the Rockets-Blazers game a lot last night. I'm liking what I see out of Brooks now that he's the starting point guard. Blazers did a great job showing up and playing with effort all night. Roy... man, the guy keeps getting better. Hopefully this turns out to be a fun even match up now that it's tied up.

I saw enough of the Cavs-Pistons game to see the whole story. Cavs let up and the Pistons bench played hard. Still see a sweep.

Lakers-Jazz game 2 was better than game 1. Not that I thought the Lakers were in danger at any point of the game. Williams played really good despite the turnovers. Maybe they can turn it up a notch in Salt Lake City.

Tonight
Sixers-Magic Game 2 (NBA TV)
Heat-Hawks Game 2 (TNT)
Hornets-Nuggets Game 2 (TNT)

[Lemina]

It looks like the Spurs day in the playoffs are numbered just like everybody in the media wants too. -_-; It looks like not having Manu is a huge blow for us. He would've been in better health for the playoffs if he didn't participate in the Olympics last summer. You really can't take playing for his home country of Argentina away from him tnough.

[Hisoka]

Hopefully this Lakers-Jazz game stays close so we can have at least one non blowout game tonight. This is probably their best chance to grab a win. But Kobe is 1-9 so... can't imagine him having an equally bad second half.

[LOSTyears]

^ Heh Bet you were happy with game 1 last night ^_^ that one could go the distance.

Looking like deja vu for the Celtics this year, think the competition is much more stiff this time around. Here's hoping the Magic can stuff them with game 1 already in the bag. Gotta give some late love to that Bulls series though, don't think I've seen a series with that many OT's before.
Think the east is just a prelude to who's going down to the Cavs though.

Bron=MVP No shock.

[Hisoka]

Bulls played great and I can't take anything away from them. It's been a while since I've seen a team play so hard. They just don't have a couple of future hall of fame players to rely on. It has the most OT games and session of any series ever so it will be memorable for years to come.

Celtics-Magic. The Magic almost blew a 28 point lead and stopped doing what got them there. But managed to pull away with a win on the road. I think Rafer Alston's two shots at the end of the game sealed the deal.

Nuggets-Mavs. A close game for a while till the Nuggets bench just blew it open. I'm finding this Nuggets team very interesting. It looks like Melo finally gets it, their bigs are playing great defense and I'm not sure if a Mavs can handle that style of play.

Lakers-Rockets. Really impressed with what I've seen from the Rockets in the playoffs so far. Jumping on teams early, playing good D and not beating themselves. Good thing Yao didn't hurt himself too bad. Really want to see the big man healthy and have a good series here. Blood, sweet and tears in this game. The Lakers didn't click the switch yet. Not sure what they're waiting for. I guess they think they can coast to the Finals which isn't the case. I expect to see a much better team in game 2.

Cavs-Hawks. Finally a somewhat decent challenge for the Cavs. I don't see a sweep in the making here. I think the Hawks are good enough at home to grab two wins. Cavs in 6? Sounds about right.

[ZechsMerquise1]

It looks like the Spurs day in the playoffs are numbered just like everybody in the media wants too. -_-; It looks like not having Manu is a huge blow for us. He would've been in better health for the playoffs if he didn't participate in the Olympics last summer. You really can't take playing for his home country of Argentina away from him tnough.

Sorry but we don't want to watch "boring" games in the play offs :naughty:

[Lemina]

Sorry but we don't want to watch "boring" games in the play offs :naughty:

I see your point. I agree this team needs a complete facelift. I honestly don't see the Spurs being as strong as they were in the past anymore due to the aging players in the team. At some point Duncan is going to retire and so will the other players of the BIG 3 afterwards. The Spurs have definitely had more winning seasons than losing seasons thoughout its team history, so I'm optimestic the Spurs staff will make the correct decisions to choose the right players in the future to stay competitive in the NBA.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Yeah Duncan isn't what he used to be, but Manu and Tony are still in pretty good shape. I'm not gonna lie though, their a good team..just boring to me xD

[Naraku]

Great game Rockets vs Lakers right now. Tied up at the half, after the Lakers had an incredible first quarter, it was looking like a blow out could happen. The Rockets are THE most underrated team in the Playoffs. I'd argue that they are deeper than the Lakers, their bench is so outstanding. Also, the Rockets are one of the best defensive teams in the league. The Rockets get no credit, even after winning, everyone is still sitting back and thinking the Lakers are going to comfortably win the series. I'm REALLY pulling for the Rockets, I think they can pull it off. This is the most exciting series in the playoffs right now, at least for me. It's as good as the Bulls vs Celtics.

Denver vs Dallas, I think it's pretty obvious Denver is going to wrap this up pretty soon, barring some hellacious miraculous turn-around by the Mavericks. Denver has kind of been passed over too, but they really look like the real deal now. Sir Charles picked them to win the whole thing(NBA Finals), and I am starting to see that now too as being very possible. I'm excited for the next round just to see how Denver plays either against the Rockets/Lakers.

Cavs vs Hawks, Sorry but Atlanta has no chance haha. Not much to say about this series so far.

Magic vs Celtics, I really hope the Magic win, haha. They are my favorite team in the East, and I'm not really a Celtics fan at all. The only thing is that the Magic are so unpredictable, you can never be sure what you're going to get from them. They have the potential to win this though, so I don't think picking them is a stretch.

[ZechsMerquise1]

The Rockets and Lakers game was pretty awesome, I was pretty scared when Houston caught up before halftime D= I'm glad they stepped it up with the rebounds and fast breaks! Lol Kobe was smart not to get into it with Artest, he's not gonna ruin this chance just cause an idiot tried to front him during a game.

[Naraku]

Well... Yao is out the rest of the postseason with a broken foot. Better luck next year, again, Rockets. That's just their lingering problem now, injuries, they start to get some rhythm and then someone gets hurt.

Mavericks intentional foul didn't get called. I don't know if they would have won even if it did, but it's a real shame, the series could have gotten a lot more competitive and interesting.

[Naraku]

The Yao-less Rockets just got done dismantling the Lakers. I don't think anyone was expecting this.

[Naraku]

Damn you, Big Baby!

[Hisoka]

Damn you, Big Baby!

He's getting on my damn nerves. :lol:

Great effort by the Rockets today also.

[Nasjo01]

The Yao-less Rockets just got done dismantling the Lakers. I don't think anyone was expecting this.

Yeah everyone wasn't expecting it i thought lakers will win that game because rocket don't have Yao but the rockets prove that they can beat lakers without Yao. Way to go Rockets ( Not a rocket fan)

[Fobb]

I'm not a Rocket hater or a fan, but that was a great game, full of awesome.

I dislike the Lakers.

[Fobb]

The Rockets and Lakers game was pretty awesome, I was pretty scared when Houston caught up before halftime D= I'm glad they stepped it up with the rebounds and fast breaks! Lol Kobe was smart not to get into it with Artest, he's not gonna ruin this chance just cause an idiot tried to front him during a game.

Oh please, the Lakers have been trying to provoke Artest the whole series.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Oh please, the Lakers have been trying to provoke Artest the whole series.

Yeah and he fell for it in game 2 :)

[Fobb]

Just goes to show Lakers can't play a straight game.

[Nasjo01]

Just goes to show Lakers can't play a straight game.

I agree :D because the lakers is having a hard time with artest without artest it would be easier for the lakers to defeat houston especially without Yao and TMac

[ZechsMerquise1]

I agree :D because the lakers is having a hard time with artest without artest it would be easier for the lakers to defeat houston especially without Yao and TMac

Yeah that's why the Lakers had a 40 point lead in game 5 :) It's not like the Lakers are playing dirty (except Fisher's foul), their just using his temper as an advantage =] But yeah Fisher's foul was pretty uncalled for though =[ And if there is a game 7, it's gonna be in LA so Houston's chances are slipping away ^_^


Anyways I'm glad Dallas won game 4, but the refs totally f'd them up with bad calls throughout the playoffs<_<

[LOSTyears]

Two game 7's on Sunday :) couldn't ask for better drama.

I don't know man, Nuggets have been a quiet giant this whole post(season really), their very real. As much as I want to see a Kobe/Bron match up it wouldn't surprise me it doesn't.
*rubs magic lamp* PLEASE let Boston tank, just go away already!

[Naraku]

Two game 7's on Sunday :) couldn't ask for better drama.

I don't know man, Nuggets have been a quiet giant this whole post(season really), their very real. As much as I want to see a Kobe/Bron match up it wouldn't surprise me it doesn't.
*rubs magic lamp* PLEASE let Boston tank, just go away already!

I really hope Orlando wins too, I really only like KG on the Celtics, and since he's not playing I REALLY hope they don't win.

Also, I hope the Rockets can pull the upset and win the series now. The Lakers are just getting embarrased by a team with no real star players right now. The Lakers star power is failing to scare the Rockets who are completely outplaying the Lakers now. Luis Scola is the most underrated player in the league right now, he can go on some pretty big scoring runs out of nowhere. If he can dominate game 7, like he did in game 6, the Rockets have a good chance of winning. Also, Aaron Brooks is a beast, and Rick Adelman is a great coach, if it weren't for him it'd probably be over already.

[ThePhillyFlash]

Two game 7's on Sunday :) couldn't ask for better drama.

Hopefully we'll have drama and not back to back blowouts.

[KT Kore]

I wouldn't mind back-to-back blowouts. As long as it's the Lakers and the Magic doing the blowing out. Lakers are in the process of a blowout as I type. :D

[ZechsMerquise1]

Lakers won, as I expected =D but yeah I'm pretty hyped Magics beat Boston!

[LOSTyears]

Hopefully we'll have drama and not back to back blowouts.Not much drama..........BUT one blowout I did care about :naughty:



http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/BarneyY3/other/capt2769c5df3b7a43019e08551eeaf6f54.jpg? t=1242651167http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/BarneyY3/other/simpsons_nelson_haha2.jpg?t=1242650978

[Hisoka]

Nothing I enjoyed more than seeing Marbury create all those turnovers. Look at him sulking on the bench hiding under the towel as always. :lol: I've had enough of this guy and hope he's not even playing in the NBA next year. I wouldn't have been able to stomach him getting a ring.

The Eastern and Western Conference Finals are how I hoped they would be. I think Orlando has a better chance than the Celtics would have against the Cavs. But their lack of smarts will more than likely be why the Cavs win. It will be a close series unless LeBron goes absolutely nuts.

Lakers-Nuggets should be a lot of fun. Nuggets are way more physical and have a front line that can really cause problems for the Laker bigs. Both teams can shoot the lights out, but Nuggets thus far have had a more consistent attack from game to game. Lakers can't take nights off like in the two previous series.

[waltsoph3]

NOOOO! my home team lost..again!(talking about the rockets)

[ZechsMerquise1]

The Nugget's almost had the Lakers but Ariza (I think) made an awesome steal with a couple seconds left on the clock to basically secure the win woo! Billups had me trembling the last few seconds after he made that three!

[Depression]

Can't wait to see LeBron against Dwight tonight.

I'm also very pleased that the Celtics lost.

It's disgusting how much Pierce/KG have changed since they won it all.

It's as if they completely forgot that they were both prennial losers prior to them joining forces. Rather than being humble and greatful, they've acted like children.

KG is so insecure he has to pick on lesser players. Did anybody see him in the backcourt on the ground like a dog mocking the player behind his back as he was waiting for the ball? Everytime I saw him mean mugging and making gestures on the bench during the playoffs I just wanted to punch him.

Boston fans in general (not anybody here on the boards) don't make it any better. 2 years ago Kobe came and owned them, the Boston Garden was chanting "MVP MVP MVP", Boston defines bandwagon fans.

[Hisoka]

I think Kobe is going to get MVP chants after beating down most bad teams. It's like the teams are so bad that at least Kobe putting on a show is something to cheer about. I'm not a fan of it at all, but I understand why it does happen. It shouldn't be determined if your team is good or not and that's what I really dislike about Celtics fans. They kind of turn the light switch on an off when it comes to support.

I agree with you on KG. The only player who's remained the same is Ray Allen and I respect that. I'm not sure what the deal with KG was this season. He was more of a bully than anything and Paul Pierce has always been a turd so... I'm not shocked to see his ego explode.

[Naraku]

I'm really getting tired of "sports analysts" pulling for the Lakers and Cavs to win. I mean, sure it'd be exciting to see Lebron and Kobe match up, but everyone is acting like Basketball as a sport will die if the Nuggets and Magic both make it. I REALLY, and I mean really, hope that at least one of them make it. Star power is overrated, and both the Nuggets and Magic have enough star power, even though everyone acts like they don't.

[Hisoka]

I hope one of them makes it too. You can already see all the Kobe vs LeBron commercials and in a series with one another, it will take away from the quality. It will become far too much one on one when it's supposed to be a team game. I'm not as interested as most in the possible match up.

[Depression]

I don't think the Kobe vs LeBron marketing is unwarranted.

It's not as if these are #4 and #6 seeded teams. They're the number one teams in each conference, with the two best players in the league.

Isn't that what you want? The two best teams with the two best players in the finals?

[Hisoka]

I'd be just as happy with a shocking Magic-Nuggets match up. For me, Cavs vs Lakers even if they do have the best record in their respective conferences and do advance isn't as exciting. Maybe I'm in the minority with that opinion. I prefer some unpredictability over what's expected.

[LOSTyears]

^Well we got a little glimpse tonight. Bron pulling 50 cramping off and still losing, thats a cause for concern.

The two best teams with the two best players in the finals?Thats the way I see it. Honestly I wouldn't mind being proven wrong, the only way I'd be disappointed is if any of the key players from the teams that get there are not there cause of injury or any other inexplicable reason.
I just want to see some good basketball period.

[Naraku]

I don't think the Kobe vs LeBron marketing is unwarranted.

It's not as if these are #4 and #6 seeded teams. They're the number one teams in each conference, with the two best players in the league.

Isn't that what you want? The two best teams with the two best players in the finals?

They aren't the best teams if they don't make it to the NBA Finals, regular season means nothing in the playoffs.

I think Carmelo Anthony is better than Kobe right now honestly. Charles Barkley proclaimed Melo "the best scorer in the league", and I'm starting to agree with him. The Nuggets are just as loaded as the Lakers are, I don't think it's easy to proclaim the Lakers as the best team, just because they are the #1 seed.

The Magic have the Cavs number though. Orlando doesn't have that one Superstar, but they have a ton of players that can put up twenty in any game. I think that the Cavs are overall a better team, but Orlando matches up well with them, and when they get hot they are almost unstoppable(just see the second half of game 1).

I think it's very possible that both Denver and Orlando can win. Also, I'm not pulling for a Kobe/Lebron matchup, I actually prefer watching Orlando and Denver play over them, I just enjoy their basketball more. I prefer good team basketball, rather than Superstar power, which is why I like teams like the Rockets, Spurs, Magic, Jazz, etc. Orlando is my favorite team in the East, so I am pulling for them especially.

[ZechsMerquise1]

They aren't the best teams if they don't make it to the NBA Finals, regular season means nothing in the playoffs.

Well there are other factors why the best team would lose in the playoff's (Injuries, and other factors) That just means the other teams got lucky and made it to the finals.

[Naraku]

Well there are other factors why the best team would lose in the playoff's (Injuries, and other factors) That just means the other teams got lucky and made it to the finals.

There is no luck, you're either good enough to make it or you aren't. You can't be the best unless you make it all the way. Talent and potential alone don't lead to victory, just look at the injury plagued Rockets taking the Lakers to seven games. "Luck" is just an excuse in my opinion.

Right now, any of these four teams left are good enough to be the best, you can't just proclaim two of them the best when they haven't gone out and proven it yet, they all still have one more team in their way.

[Hisoka]

^ I agree completely.

[Depression]

They aren't the best teams if they don't make it to the NBA Finals, regular season means nothing in the playoffs.

And I would agree. In 07 the Cavs beat the Spurs both meetings, but got swept in the finals. Same thing this year with the Rockets/Lakers. LA beat them to a pulp in the regular season but struggled to walk out of a 7 game series up against a Houston team without McGrady and Yao.

But generally speaking the top seeds are the best teams in the league. When was the last time neither #1's made it to the finals?



I think Carmelo Anthony is better than Kobe right now honestly. Charles Barkley proclaimed Melo "the best scorer in the league", and I'm starting to agree with him. The Nuggets are just as loaded as the Lakers are, I don't think it's easy to proclaim the Lakers as the best team, just because they are the #1 seed.

Scoring wise, I would say so as well. But until Melo can become a lockdown defender night in night out (which he has this series) I still give the overall to Kobe.

The playoffs change people though. Melo is in a place he's never been before (the second round) so it'll be interesting to see how much progress he makes from this to next season. The Nuggets have also never had a leader like Billups, his level of leadership and maturity is definitely going to rub off.

Denver would most likely have the #1 seed in the West had they acquired Billups in the offseason.

The Magic have the Cavs number though. Orlando doesn't have that one Superstar, but they have a ton of players that can put up twenty in any game. I think that the Cavs are overall a better team, but Orlando matches up well with them, and when they get hot they are almost unstoppable(just see the second half of game 1).

As Charles said, you don't live and die by the three, you just die by it. If Hedo and Rashard don't shoot well its game over.

Mo and West shot for a combined % below 30. Very uncharacteristic of them, and it was still a close game. I still see Cleveland winning.

I think it's very possible that both Denver and Orlando can win. Also, I'm not pulling for a Kobe/Lebron matchup, I actually prefer watching Orlando and Denver play over them, I just enjoy their basketball more. I prefer good team basketball, rather than Superstar power, which is why I like teams like the Rockets, Spurs, Magic, Jazz, etc. Orlando is my favorite team in the East, so I am pulling for them especially.

Its not really fair to say Denver and Orlando play more team ball than the Lakers and Cavs.

Kobe isn't taking 30 shots a night like he was when he was surrounded by the likes of Smush Parker and Kwame Brown. The Lakers win % actually skyrockets when Kobe takes less than 20 shot attempts. And this isn't the Cleveland team that only had one play in their repertoire where LeBron would sit at the top of the key and wait for the pick and roll.

They're both averaging around 20 attempts a night, Melo averages less than 2 away from that mark.

I think you could argue that Dwight would also be seeing 20 attempts a night if it weren't for the fact that Van Gundy plays an outside-in game, and the fact that Dwight has a relatively weak post game.

Lets say Dwight develops a 10 foot jumper or a nice touch around the rim like Duncan, he would be unstoppable. But right now its look for the open 3, pass to Dwight for a dunk, or kick it back out for a 3.

[Naraku]

First, that isn't all Orlandos game. Sure, they do take more threes than any other team, but they don't just jack them up every possession if they can't get a dunk. Rashard Lewis has been pounding the Cavs on the block a lot, and noone on Cleveland can guard him. They are more a drive and kick team, with some pick and roll. Dwights a center, he doesn't need a 10 foot jumper(especially with the shooters around him), he just needs to perfect his post game, and dominate inside.

I think two years ago was the last time two #1 seeds didn't match up, it happens a lot.

EDIT:

Holy hell that was a good game. The contrast of style was just right in your face all game haha. Dwight Howard was clutch in overtime though, he pulled through for the Magic, especially with those clutch free throws.

I'm getting tired of all these Technical fouls and Flagrants getting thrown around for nothing though. It just seems like they are for the smallest things sometimes, and it's kind of getting annoying.

[LOSTyears]

Magic did it right this go around, thats what they('ve been) needed Dwight to do when its crunch time.

Lakers/Nuggets I expected a dog fight but I didn't see the Cavs struggling this much, its win or go home now(no wait they are at home next time).
And shame on the Lakers for getting stomped by practically a Melo-less Nuggets. This team baffles me some times they can beat a healthy squad but get punk'd by a hobbling one.

[Naraku]

^

I honestly don't think the Lakers are as talented as everyone has thought, I think that what's so baffling to everyone, especially me at least. Who knows though. If Pau Gasol could be more productive I think they'd be much better off. People always call Lamar Odom the X factor, but if Pau can show up(offensively and defensively) night in and out they'd be much better off.

[LOSTyears]

^I agree on Pau, if not productive getting physical cause when he does the dude has presence. Which is something they need now cause their getting roughed up. I've always defended Lamar but his team up with Kobe in this playoff has declined, he's become the largest invisible man on the court.

[Depression]

What I see wrong with the Lakers:

Toughness. They struggle against teams that aren't afraid to go to work and get physical (See Boston last year). Bynum being rusty and most likely not completely healthy is a big blow to the front line. Gasol struggles against in your face players like Martin and Andersen.

Derek Fisher. The guy is a complete defensive liability these days and his shooting is spotty. I guess this also brings up the Lakers's coaching. Phil is one of the greats but it baffles me that Fisher is still starting. Is it out of respect for their previous run earlier this decade?

I guess you could also ask why Walton is getting playtime. He works as a decent passer in the triangle but thats about it.

And the Cavs deserve to lose because of their inability to adapt to the Hedo pick and roll after 4 games. I say let him beat you. They want the double so he can kick to the open shooter.

[ZechsMerquise1]

The Cav's are pretty much out of it. I don't think they can recover from this 1-3 record lol. I think game 5 or 6 is at Orlando and game 7 is at Cleveland, they will most likely lose in Orlando unless some miracle happens lol

[Depression]

The Cav's are pretty much out of it. I don't think they can recover from this 1-3 record lol. I think game 5 or 6 is at Orlando and game 7 is at Cleveland, they will most likely lose in Orlando unless some miracle happens lol

They were only one stop away from winning in Orlando. If Lewis doesn't hit that three, it was Cleveland's game.

[ZechsMerquise1]

They were only one stop away from winning in Orlando. If Lewis doesn't hit that three, it was Cleveland's game.

It's still a long shot for cleveland. I still think they won't make it past game 6 lol. It would be more interesting if they do though >_<

[LOSTyears]

Bron with sickest triple double tonight :naughty: not ready yet baby.
Magic gotta win just as bad now, don't think its easy to say they'll just take it back home.
If both these Finals go the distance I might just get what I desire and it'll be even more potent.

[Depression]

This was the first game of the series where the Cavs were really hitting their open shots.

Denver/LA should be a good game later today.

[Naraku]

This was the first game of the series where the Cavs were really hitting their open shots.

Denver/LA should be a good game later today.

It was the first game where LeBron really had any help.

I really feel sorry for LeBron though, the more and more I watch these games versus the Magic, the more I think that Mike Brown is a bad coach. Give the man some rest, he's played all of every second half in the series. It's just like, Mike Brown is only depending on LeBron in the second half, he needs to trust his bench a little more so LeBron could be fresher, the Cavs would be much better down the stretch that way. I mean, the Cavs bench and support cast aren't great, but they are good enough to score a little bit.

[Depression]

What I don't like is that the whole 'LeBron iso at the top of the key' play EVERY time down the stretch. It is horribly predictable and has proven to go nowhere when thats all they did against the Spurs in 06.

The addition of Mo was nice because it brought another player who could handle the ball and create, yet in the 4th quarter its as if none of that exists.

The Magic can see LeBron the entire play. Why not have him do some cutting or set some screens he could roll off of? Make them split their focus between the ball and where LeBron is going to catch it versus knowing where they both are at all times when they do the top of the key iso.

[LOSTyears]

Had a feeling Black Mamba was going to strike tonight :smokin: screw taking it back home. Pau & Odom actually gave some good support too.

*deep breath* Now we just have to wait for his dance partner to show up............maybe.
I'll be rooting hard tommorow.

[ZechsMerquise1]

As much as I want the Lakers to win the finals, (they have a better chance of winning if they play Orlando) I WANT to see Kobe vs Lebron real bad!

[Naraku]

**** YES! Kobe/LeBron dreams shattered haha. The NBA will now implode. All that advertising from Nike and everything down the drain.

Anyways, all jokes aside, I think this will actually be a better match up to watch, LA vs Orlando that is. The Cavs were just playing awful basketball, it was painful to watch. When one guy, Pietrus, can outscore the entire Cavs bench over the whole series, you know the Cavs were playing some pretty pathetic basketball. Dwight was a beast again tonight, every time it looked like the Cavs could find a way to claw back in the game, Dwight would come up with a nice play.

I really think Orlando can win it all if they keep playing like they are. I mean, who on the Lakers is going to guard the most dominant center in the game Dwight Howard. I'm a little concerned that Pau Gasol is just going to get manhandled by Dwight Howard.

[LOSTyears]

To no avail :( very disappointing. Dwight was a man possessed tonight.
Though this was probably Bron's worst outing in the series it was a good playoff run, familiar. You know I just don't know if there is a proper strategy with this squad that could get them to the next level without having Bron take a step back.

Anyway, its Kobe time :naughty: 4's the magic number.

[Naraku]

^That's the problem with the Cavs. If LeBron doesn't show up they don't have a very good chance of winning.

It seems LeBron didn't shake anyones hand at the end of the game, I'm kind of suprised by that, it's pretty poor sportsmanship. He usually doesn't act that way.

I think every winning team in the past 10 years has had a dominant center/big man. Shaquille O'Neal, Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett. I'm picking the Magic, haha.

[Jae Hoon]

Lebron usually does act that way, he has always been a spoiled brat who throws temper tantrums when he doesn't get his way. Most laughable part is Lebrick and Brown complaining about not getting foul calls when they had full Stern assist on their side. The difference was Orlando didn't let the ref assist affect them.

[ThePhillyFlash]

David Stern had a screaming fit last night when the Cavs lost, depriving him and his partners at ABC that Kobe/LeBron match-up. But Lakers-Magic should still be highly interesting for the following reasons:

Kobe vs. "Superman"
Hollywood vs. Disneyworld
The Zen Master vs. The Master of Panic

I see this series going the full seven as Orlando will give the Lackers all they can handle and more, but Kobe will win, finally shutting up all the detractors who said he couldn't claim a title without Shaq.

[Depression]

Kobe vs. "Superman"
Hollywood vs. Disneyworld
The Zen Master vs. The Master of Panic


Don't you mean Disneyland vs Disneyworld?

It should be interesting to see how Phil matches up.

Bynum is the ideal matchup for Howard, but Gasol wouldn't have a chance against Hedo or Rashard at the 4.

Regardless, can Bynum stay out of foul trouble to even make a difference?

Odom will definitely be an upgrade over anything Cleveland was sending towards Hedo/Rashard's way though.

[Hisoka]

I'm really excited about this Finals. I like both the Lakers and Magic and the fact that it will be 100% about TEAM basketball. The Cavs had me bored out of my mind. There was only so much I could watch LeBron going 1 on 5 at the top of the key. His "supporting cast" as he likes to call them didn't show up for crap. Pietrus > Cavs bench. :lol: This should be really fun though. I'm glad the Lakers decided to show up against the Nuggets and there is no doubt they'll be taking the Finals seriously. Magic have all the momentum they need and have proven able to win on the road, even in a game 7. They have a chance but I can't see the Lakers losing this year.

[Depression]

"Last year they took it from us, and I'm not going to live with that," said Bryant. "I'm not going to sit here and let this team get punked any more."
KB24

[Lemina]

I was hoping for a Kobe vs. Lebron, but after what happened last night. I'm glad the Cavs lost. Lebron really showed inmaturity and unsportsmanship by leaving the court right after the final buzzer. Normally, players congradulate their opponents for playing a great series but he just left the court without a single handshake. I mean, this is what kids even do in amateur sports. That was cold.

The Finals this year should be very exciting. I'm pulling for the Magic to win naturally. I don't want the Lakers to win as a Spurs fan.

[Depression]

Spurs fan, ouch.

That organization is going to be facing some tough times in the near future.

Parker's in the prime of his career and everyobdy else around him is aging.

[Lemina]

Spurs fan, ouch.

That organization is going to be facing some tough times in the near future.

Parker's in the prime of his career and everyobdy else around him is aging.

I'm well aware of that. I wish the Spurs staff could retool the team because everyone is getting old. Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili will do ok for a few more years, but they are going to need more youth around them. I look forward to the NBA Draft and to see what the Spurs will do this summer.

[KT Kore]

I don't want the Lakers to win as a Spurs fan.

*grins*

I hope the Lakers win. I'm happy to finally have the Spurs off our backs. :lol:

[LOSTyears]

"Last year they took it from us, and I'm not going to live with that," said Bryant. "I'm not going to sit here and let this team get punked any more."
KB24Freakin sweet :P you tell em Leonidas.
Predict a 4-2 series, Black Mamba will not be denied and will shatter "the big man" stigma. Its kinda strange ^_^ first time the Magic made the Finals I rooted for them(Huge Shaq fan, still have THAT jersey) and now against them.

On a side note I'm probably in the minority for defending Bron. Yeah it would of been cool to give shakes & congrats but considering those circumstances to be able to hold your composure under that pressure, I think its understandble and a bit blown out of proportion. Most of the negativity of a team falls on the best player anyway, and to lose out 4 years straight with the best record this year to boot and its hardly your fault thats gotta be tough. I wouldn't expect him to prance around giving out fist bumps after a game like that and having a 100 different people asking a 100 different loaded questions, your bound to implode and thats what they want. Instead of spewing out venom or giving out lame sour grape excuses or worse bashing your team mates its not that unbelievable for someone to just walk away from that.

[Hisoka]

I wasn't paying very close attention towards the end, but I heard Howard in the final seconds went up for an alley oop and chucked up a three pointer. I think that might have been what upset him in the first place.

This gif is pretty funny.
http://i39.tinypic.com/20tgj9i.jpg

[Haro!]

Lebron usually does act that way, he has always been a spoiled brat who throws temper tantrums when he doesn't get his way. Most laughable part is Lebrick and Brown complaining about not getting foul calls when they had full Stern assist on their side. The difference was Orlando didn't let the ref assist affect them.

So true. I'm quite glad that Lebron James and the Pips didn't make it to the finals.
While everyone wanted to see Kobe vs. Lebron, we all know it would have been a disastrous series for Cleveland. Kobe has a team playing with him. Lebron has people in the background that happen to have the same jersey whose only job is to pass the ball to him.

I'd like Orlando to win this one though.

Oh and Lemina, don't feel bad about being a Spurs fan. I was a Knicks fan in the 90's.

[Depression]

Heh, there isn't much to feel bad about when you put together one of the most successful decades in sports.

[ZechsMerquise1]

IMO Lebron is overrated. Well honestly what did Lebron do that Kobe hasn't done yet? At least Kobe knows how to get his team mates involved (most of the time)

[Depression]

How many Cavs games have you watched? (serious question)

The 4th quarter LeBron that was on display in each of the Magic games is not what LeBron is about, that was simply bad coaching by Mike Brown.

Mike Brown went into panic mode and called the exact same play every possession in each 4th quarter.

Until LeBron can prove himself on the grandest stage, he'll be second to Kobe until Kobe fades away. How overrated can the second best player in the league be? His jumper still needs work and he only shoots 78% from the line, but the guy is still an absolute beast.

There isn't a way any true basketball fan cannot appreciate what LeBron has been doing. He's a top 5 passer in the league at the SF position. Amongst all players he ranked 9th in assists this season. Minus his rookie year he's practically averaged 30-7-7. Those types of numbers in the modern era are unheard of. I believe the only other players to have averaged those numbers in a single season are Jordan and Oscar Robertson. He can put up a triple double any given night.

Throw in his athleticism and the league has never seen a player like him before.

The Cavs were a 17 win team the year before they drafted him. They've been to the finals once, and the Eastern Conference Finals 3 times.

[ZechsMerquise1]

I never said I didn't appreciate what he's been doing, I do enjoy watching some of their games but I guess I just got tired of those band wagon fans praising him and "blah blah the king is the best, kobe suxorz blah blah" But I do think he's the 2nd best right now, and I'm pretty sure you already know who I think #1 is =]

[Jae Hoon]

If Lebron didn't get the Stern assist so hard he would be Kevin Durant, which is still a good player but not what Stern makes him out to be.

[ZechsMerquise1]

Lakers 1-0, just as I expected

[Depression]

Orlando wasn't going to shoot that well forever. They've finally cooled off, for that game at least.

[Naraku]

^ I don't consider shooting under 30% "cooling off" haha, that's just a terrible effort. If the Lakers keep playing terrible defense like they did in Game 1 they'll be in trouble. I doubt Orlando will keep missing wide open jumpers and easy lay ups. They'll get it together in Game 2, Game 1 was LA's to win. Hopefully game 2 will be more enjoyable though, the second half nearly put me to sleep it was so lop sided.

[LOSTyears]

In the immortal words of Bill Paxton "Game over man! GAME OVER!" :P
Fisher with the life saving dagger, 2nd straight OT night. This series is alot more competitve than I thought, still should of been a sweep though.
Mamba needs to end this on Sunday *nods*

[ZechsMerquise1]

It's pretty much over for Orlando. There's no way they can beat LA at home twice :>

[neiru_3]

During the playoffs there were some good games..but as far as the finals it was boring. Do you remember when the New Jersey Nets went to the finals or the Philadelphia 76er's with Iverson? Probably not..this will be a long forgotten final. The league just doesn't have the same juice it had in the 90's. It's not as physical and more cry babies. Oh and no MJ.

[ZechsMerquise1]

It was boring because the Lakers dominated them and Dwight missed a lot of key shots and free throws. It would have been more interesting if the Lakers played the Cavs

[LOSTyears]

^:P HEEEH! I knew someone was going to fire that rocket.

It was boring because the Lakers dominated Dwight and he missed a lot of key shots and free throws. It would have been more interesting if the Lakers played the CavsFIXED. Lewis, Alston & Hedo did what they could and were suppose to do for the most part.

Actually with the Cavs I think the series would of ended the same if not a sweep, but I do believe it would of been slightly more fun watching Bron go in guns blazing knowing it would be him vs. everyone ^_^

[ZechsMerquise1]

^:P HEEEH! I knew someone was going to fire that rocket.

FIXED. Lewis, Alston & Hedo did what they could and were suppose to do for the most part.

Actually with the Cavs I think the series would of ended the same if not a sweep, but I do believe it would of been slightly more fun watching Bron go in guns blazing knowing it would be him vs. everyone ^_^

Better than watching Dwight ^_^