Complacency Killed the Cat: Detroit’s Done

Despite my adamant claims that both Conference Finals were going seven, the Celtics finished off the Pistons last night to win the East and set up a classic battle for the Larry O. The Pistons were inevitably going to be the flatter team coming into this one; they’ve never looked like the hungrier team in these playoffs, just occasionally the better one. Chauncey was getting his and Rip shot well, but the Celts’ D was too solid and forced them into way too many tough jumpers.

Rasheed came incorrect; he could’ve been the game’s most important player and instead dropped a 2-12 dud: his 3-point shot selection looking more questionable every game. About midway through the 3rd quarter, he made a simple, effortless dropstep that completely abandoned Kendrick Perkins on the right block, only to miss a layup 6 feet from his closest opposition. The play more or less embodies Detroit’s attitude this spring: they’ve gotten by on their talent and just not executed when they need to.

The Celtics have been a compelling team all season. They’ve captained the biggest bandwagon and cruised to the league’s best record while leveling doubts about their depth but have continued winning almost in spite of themselves (they let the Cavs and Hawks get wayyyy too close). They got their act together against the Pistons and now roll on to the Finals, setting up the ultimate Celtics/Lakers tilt for league supremacy; a fitting end to one of the best seasons in recent history. This clash of the titans (two squads that absolutely nobody would’ve put in this spot a year ago) pits the league’s best D against a team that’s been filleting foes in the Wild West and will be tough to beat. The Celtics played very well against the West (25-5) all year, but you can throw that out the window. They need to notch it up another level to beat LA and with the Big 3 tasting the finals for the first time, I’m expecting huge things from all of them. KG especially has to deliver, facing a guy who defends the high post very well for the second series in a row. The Celts biggest problem will be scoring enough to win: the Spurs untimely fall proved you can’t beat the Lakers with just tough D. If Pierce and Allen disappear like they did against the Cavs (don’t underestimate the Lakers’ perimeter D), this series will end quickly.

Boston’s had a good run, their record turnaround’s been inspiring (if not overkill of the success of Boston-based franchises this year) and I’m glad to see their stars get the shots at a title they’re long overdue for. I just don’t see the Lakers losing. They have the best player, the better coach, the deeper bench and the confidence from winning the West. Ironic that the Zen Master’s likely about to break Red’s ring record against his squad. Talk about insult to injury.
Lakers in six.

Rejoice! The Spurs Have Fallen.

Well it’s come to an end; the epic battle royale that was the Western Conference Playoffs has ended in anticlimactic fashion; the defending champs easily vanquished by a team that’s looked like the West’s best since the bracket was laid out. The Spurs were a step slow for most of the series, relying too heavily on jumpers, committing uncharacteristic turnovers and not playing the type of D they’ve become feared for. They did an awful job of controlling tempo and didn’t have their Big 3 performing like they needed to win. Their road to this series (undoubtedly the hardest of any remaining team) couldn’t’ve helped but the Lakers were just more thorough. Kobe appeared to have the Spurs right where he wanted them, drifting in an out of dominance while his teammates confidently worked the opposition (in what for all but one of them was the biggest series of their lives). Then, with his prey reeling, the Mamba broke out for a seemingly effortless 39 in the clincher, a fatal blow to San Antonio’s repeat quest.

There’s naturally going to be plenty of talk about the no-call in game four drastically altering the course of this series, but the Lakers were no doubt the better team; their win was convincing enough that they have to be odds-on favourites no matter who makes it out of the East. In any event it’ll be a classic throwback to the Finals of the Showtime era, with the Lake Show looking poised to steal the spotlight again. Most importantly though, the Spurs are out; we don’t have to sit through another series of Bowen’s defense, Manu’s flopping, Timmy’s painstakingly methodical dominance, hack-a-whoever and the furthering of the most boring dynasty in sports. Good fuckin' riddance.

Lakers Re-Define "Stealing One on the Road"

A league statement this afternoon confirmed what pretty much everyone already knew: Derek Fisher fouled Brent Barry on the Final possession of last night's game four. Joey Crawford (of all people) missed the call. The almost certainly ensuing two hits at the stripe would have sent the game into overtime with the Spurs riding homecourt and the momentum of a late-game surge. Now they find themselves a game away from elimination against a team that's quite frankly outperformed them; their quest for a first repeat in serious peril. Some may cry foul; call this an injustice that serves as this series' most pivotal point. I call it the nature of the game. Let's take a recent, relevant exmaple: Spurs hater as I may be, there's no denying the truth behind last year's Western Semis against the Suns:

- With the two teams locked in their first Epic Game 1, Pretty Tony delivered an inadvertant headbutt to Steve Nash, splitting his nose, sending blood everywhere, and forcing the Suns to play the last three minutes of a game they'd go on to lose without their most important player.

- Down the stretch of Game 2, a serious stretch of calls seemed to be going San Antonio's way; the balance of foul calls was way out of wack and the scales just seemed tilted. I swore there was some kind of referee conspiracy. Then a few months later I found out Tim Donaghy was working that game. Huge surprise there.

- Then there was Game 5, you know, the one the Suns narrowly lost despite having two of their five best players in streets for barely leaving the bench in response to a blatant cheap shot that coudl've seriously injured their teammate. You must've heard that story.

Do I put an asterix beside the Spurs' title last year after they won that series? Nah, they played remarkably effective basketball and earned their rings. But shit happens. It's a shame that the league office and whistle-blowers can take games out of the players' hands but that's a reality every player, coach and fan has to live with. Last year San Antonio was the beneficiary of some questionable outcomes, and this year they've been screwed by them. Call it whatever you want, but for fuck's sake, if you're one of the 219 Spurs fans out there, don't call it unfair.

Boston Wins on Road; Temperature Plummets to Record Low in Hell

The Boston Celtics finally managed to win away from their adoring fans last night, copping a road win for the first time in the playoffs (were the 500 people at the Phillips Centre really that intimidating?). I was stuck at work and missed the game, but the result hardly suprsied me; I think this series is going to be a 7-game slugfest, and Boston's just too good of a team to keep losing on the road. I think the Cleveland series dragging on as long as it did was good for this team, they've handled pressure and adversity well in these playoffs and brought their best D in the most important games. Which is why they should eventually prevail.

LA and San Antonio square off for game 3 tonight, the Spurs limping back to the Alamo for what has to be their last stand after suffering their worst loss of the season in game two. What's frightening is that LA has not only burnt the Spurs on offense but, contrary to expectations, outclassed them on D. The Spurs can't win a high-scoring game against the Lakers, but if they can't prevail in a slower, defense-oriented game either, they stand no chance in this series. I don't expect Timmy and his boys to go quietly: they were in the same boat last round against the Hornets and we all saw where that went. All the same, this is a must-win for them (if I had a webcam I'd post a shot of the maniacal Monty Burns-like grin that's plastered across my face). I'll be missing this game as well (for a Nas concert, probably the only thing that can pry me away from rooting against the Spurs at this point), but I'll try and deliver some goods tomorrow. Hopefully the Lakers do tonight.

Random Rants

AJ's taking over kids. While Christian's off getting in touch with his inner Andrea Bargnani, I'll be trying to stay on top of what's going on around the league for the next little while.

Hardly feels like it, but the playoffs started well over a month ago. I’ve spent so many hours waist-deep in Chinese food and Kingpins for the annual playoff hibernation that days just sorta run together now. My perception of time’s been seriously warped by this 40 games in 40 nights thing, and 12 series later we’re already at the conference finals with the four most likely teams (if any could’ve been considered “likely”) left gunning for a title. All the survivors of the opening round melees are balanced and talented enough to guarantee us basketball junkies won’t have to sit through another Finals that plays out like the first fifteen minutes of Saving Private Ryan; there’s some sick ball yet to come. But before I get too far ahead of myself, it’s probably time for a look back at what’s been going on; besides, Christian’s been M.I.A so nothing’s been put up for a while, and the jackhammer outside my window that woke me up at 8:30 isn’t stopping anytime soon. So here’s some thoughts on the last few weeks:

- I’ll get the draft out of the way first. The Bulls, who have to win the “You Had No Fucking Business in the Lottery” award, sucked out for the first pick. They’re not necessarily shallow at the one or four and neither Derrick Rose nor Michael Beasley would be a bad fit on this team. But they should do Miami a favour and scoop Beastley, who may be slightly undersized at the four but could develop into that interior scoring threat they’ve lacked for so long under a ceiling that’s higher than the O.D.B. Miami can proceed to claim the most athletic backcourt in the L, while teams like Seattle and Minnesota are already sorta countin’ down the days until next year’s lottery while praying that Brook Lopez, Jerryd Bayless or OJ Mayo pan out.

- Mike D’Antoni’s move to the Knicks is also huge; I like it for both teams. Phoenix gave up their speed when they added Shaq and need to take a slower approach that D’Antoni clearly isn’t feeling, while New York gets a coach who a) Isn’t Isiah Thomas and b) Is already making free agents salivate at the prospect of playing in his offense under the bright lights of the Garden.

- Back to the playoffs, hats off to the New Orleans Hornets. Sure, they squandered 2-0 and 3-2 leads, but it was against the Spurs. Any coming-from-behind the Spurs do against you is more forgivable by default. Their core’s way ahead of their time and just held court in the West all year, bitch-slapped Dallas, and took the millennium’s best team to seven. Watching the dwindling last minutes of Chris Paul’s season, he was all Bambi-eyed; understandably upset that he’d come so close to slaying a giant and fallen short but from the profoundness of the look on his face you’d think he was never getting another shot at it. Don’t worry buddy, you’ve proven yourself as the best point guard by miles and nobody’s slighting your squad anymore: they’re the real fucking deal.

- Meanwhile, Cavs fans should keep their hats firmly on and remain seated. Forget that they dragged the Celtics to game seven amidst woeful shooting from Lebron and an injury to Daniel Gibson. Boston played some of its worst ball of the season and gave Cleveland plenty of chances to win this series. They responded by taking questionable shots, missing crucial free-throws and fucking up a play that resulted in their failure to inbound the ball on the season’s most important possession.



- I don’t know what performance-enhancing drug the Celtics have been feeding Rajon Rondo, but the league really needs to start screening for that shit. Rajon also needs to get a hold of Kia and talk a spokesman deal.

- I also don’t know when Sasha Vujacic evolved from a nervous turnover waiting to happen into the type of player who calls himself “The Machine”, but I can’t remember the last time I saw him miss a three-pointer.

- Kevin Garnett’s been lights-out. During a recently-aired halftime interview, Bill Russell (11 titles in 13 years, two as a player-coach if ya don’t know) praised KG’s skill and determination, promising him one of his rings if he falls short as a Celtic. I’m sure he’d love to cop his own but that kind of gift from the greatest winner in the history of team sports has gotta serve as the ultimate consolation prize. And if anyone deserves it, it’s him.

- Mark Cuban recently made an appearance on national radio during which he admitted to past marijuana use and came to the defense of embattled swingman Josh Howard’s offseason sessions. Personally, I commend his support of his players and completely agree with his outlook, but c’mon Mark, your team’s season was reminiscent of The Benefactor and they need to get their act together. This is not the way to set a stern example.

- Reggie Miller is insufferable. He forces viewers to endure his irrelevant comments, terrible jokes and John Madden-ish obvious statements, all delivered in a whiny voice. At least five times every game he says something that makes me seriously wonder how he and whoever at TNT decided to put a mic in his hand still have jobs.

- The favourites? I’ve been saying the Lakers for a while now and I’m still convinced. Thing is, they look like the closest thing to a favourite but they're far from a lock to even win the West. They’ve got a long way to go against the Spurs, but they looked more like the Lakeshow we’ve seen all year in the second half of Game 1 and came from twenty down against San Antonio to win. Come on. Nobody fucking does that against the Spurs. Letting Duncan get his (which inevitably happens) and focusing on limiting Parker and Ginobili’s penetration seemed to work. All of a sudden getting key contributions from The Machine on D couldn’t hurt either. The tell-tale fact is that the Spurs needed Kobe to disappear for a half to get an edge before he kindly reminded them not to get used to it. If they can get a monster game from Timmy, have Kobe drop deuce in the first half, hold a 20-point lead and still lose, they need to revise their game plan. But it’s the Spurs we’re talking about here, of course they will. I just can’t bet against the Zen Master, currently 40-0 in series where he draws first blood.

Gone to Rome

SOrry all..won't be able to post anything anytime soon. I'll be in Europe until July 6th..and I can't watch any of the playoffs. Fuck my life

Lebron been a threat

Top 10 angles of that SERIES CHANGING slam. Note the Defenseless Player of the Year.



Hey God? It's me Christian. I don't ask for much, but if you could find it in your heart - could you please let the Cavs beat the Celts two out of the next three games? Is that too much to ask? Everyone was writing them off after Game 2, but a select few of us were still pullin for the underdogs. Also, while I'm here, what to you say to severely injuring a few people for me; Dirk Nowitzki, Luol Deng, Raef Lafrentz and James Posey (for the Cavs sake). Also, why do you have a soft spot in your heart for Isiah Thomas?

Why the hate? A heartfelt look at Baron Davis

It’s not easy being Baron Davis. On a highly competitive NBA team, Baron is a stand-out star. He runs the offense on the most exciting team in the league (with D’Antoni gone, I’m not giving the Suns’ the benefit of the doubt) and is still being more slept on than Hugh Hefner’s bed. The guy has been more than instrumental in bringing excitement back to Oakland, a sentiment they haven’t felt since the days of Run-“TMC” (the combination of Tim Hardaway, Mitch Richmond and Chris Mullin in the early 90s before Latrell was getting his choke on, for those not in the know). B-Diddy lit up the “best team “ of the 2006-2007 regular season in the first round of the playoffs and has re-instilled a winning attitude in a place that really needed it. Only the highly unlikely case of a 49 win team not cracking the Western Conference playoff picture kept Baron and Co. out of this year’s dance.

S

o..why the hate? Baron averaged 21.8 ppg, 7.6 apg, 4.7 rpg, and 2.33 spg and still couldn’t get the all-star nod. Granted, Brandon Roy lead a young Blazers team on an unprecedented run, but as mentioned on this site before; Baron had better numbers (on both ends of the court) on a better and more exciting team. The way the NBA usually jocks their uber-athletic stars, you thought they would have had a spot in their heart, and their all-star selection ballot, for the Compton native (Word has it Game wrote “300 Bars” as a joint diss to both Mobb Deep and David Stern). But, alas Baron just can’t get that sort of love. With an unlikely chance of being voted in the top 5 for the all-star game every year, Baron has to bank on some favouritism. Not to mention the young and stocked point guard position in the West (sup Chris, Deron, Tony, Brandon....goodbye Devin) isn’t doing much to help his future chances.

The hate has continued lately, as Baron has found himself getting continually low-balled by the Golden State front office in recent weeks. Word has it, they have been throwing potential deals on the table that financially question his role as the team’s franchise player. One again, why the hate? Baron is a very talented, passionate, and all be it, bulky player that can score and create shots for his teammates like only few others. By dealing Jason Richardson last summer, it seems Golden State was positioning themselves for the ultra-serious resigning of both Monta Ellis and our ol’ pal, Baron, but where’s all that cash now? Seeing what he has done for both Charlotte and Golden State in the past, there is no doubt in my mind that he is the sort of player that can lead a team to the NBA championship with the right supporting cast. However, the jury is still out on whether the run and gun attitude of Don Nelson is a winning style of basketball, beyond the regular season.

So what is a Baron to do? Stick it out with a team that is clearly trying to slight him out more scrilla or perhaps forwardly ask for a trade out of the sunshine state? Knowing B-Diddy, he would like to stay near home/family, but maybe this isn’t the ideal situation for him. Sure his numbers will always be higher in a system designed on offensive output, but stats aren’t everything (sorry Carmelo, but it’s true). At this point in his career, Baron would like to sign a max deal that will keep him in one jersey until he slows down to a Khalid El-Amin like pace, but it’s looking as if that sort of opportunity will only come outside of Oakland. So, my advice to Baron, make moves with the money! It appears shallow at first glance, but why feel underappreciated when it’s unnecessary? Ok, apparently Golden State doesn’t seem to (overly) value what you bring to a team, so go somewhere that does. If Miami can’t land Derrick Rose they may be prompted to shake things up in their quest for a floor general.

I feel like Golden State will realize the sort of player they are dealing with and fork out the cash accordingly, but there has been a history of “Penny pinching” in the Warriors’ front office. Never the less, Baron deserves better treatment than what he has been receiving over the past year. An all-star talent without the all-star recognition and the matching salary is usually a disgruntled talent, but not Baron. He simply wants to be treated fairly. Is that too much to ask?

That’s the million dollar question or in Chris Mullin’s case - the multi-year, multi-million dollar question.

Lebron Chappelle's Block Party

Simply masterful.

"How many times Lebron told ya, play your position small soldier"

Extinction Level Event: What’s Wrong with the Raptors?

column by AJ

Well beyond a decade ago (what for basketball fans above the border seems closer to 65 million years) some front office genius named Isaiah Thomas brought the game of basketball to the city of Toronto. There was much fanfare about the NBA’s presence on an international level; the expansion to Canada was seen as a big step but was apparently just the first of many in David Stern’s diabolical scheme for global domination. Thing is though, the Commish may be fielding questions about teams in Europe and games in China, but he knows very well that things haven’t worked out so well for the NBA north of the 49^th.

The Vancouver Grizzlies, tired of sucking and being fodder for critics of the expansion, took their act to Memphis, where they proceeded to continue sucking and also became fodder for Joe Budden punchlines. The Raptors meanwhile have been a comparable success; they’ve made several postseason appearances and consistently rank among the league leaders in attendance. But somehow, between some promising beginnings and a frustrating present, a team whose first four draft picks were Damon Stoudamire, Marcus Camby, Tracy McGrady and (sorta) Vince Carter just never really took off. They now find themselves well beyond any grace period you could possibly give an expansion team with exactly one playoff series triumph to their credit.

Toronto came into this season looking to build on what some considered their best season and came out flatter than Darius Miles. Clearly a few steps away from contention, the Raps need to forget about their obvious oversight in not relentlessly pursuing Mike D’Antoni and make decisive moves this summer before this franchise becomes the new-school Clippers. They aren’t exactly endangered but fans in Canada won’t remain interested in a mediocre team forever; especially a guy like me who roots for the Raps out of patriotic duty and love of the game despite how much I fucking hate their squad.

This year, I was again treated to the sweetness of the NBA playoffs, coupled with the bitter reality that I live in a country where the simultaneous NHL postseason reigns supreme on every TV at every bar, on every highlight show and often at the expense of a televised game. It’s annoying; infuriating even. Why can’t the roundball get that kind of love? I’m well aware that hockey’s too deeply entrenched in Canada’s culture to be replaced, but I’m also pretty confident that if the Raptors could stop pissing us Canucks off, (anything from letting T-Mac walk to drafting Rafael Araujo or trading Carter for a 1992 Toyota Corolla) people here would care a lot more about basketball. It’s about damn time the Raps gave us a reason to really show interest in the NBA; over the years they’ve done little to satisfy the die-hards in T.O. and the rest of us Canadians who hesitantly cheer them on. So here’s a blueprint for a turnaround; some moves to ponder, some choices to make. I’m kinda certain that Bryan Colangelo’s never going to read this column, but hopefully his head’s on the same track because, as its international ambassador, the league needs the Raptors. And the Raptors need to:

Deal/Minimize TJ Ford

Yeah so his trade value may not be sky high what with his history of random paralysis and rash of spinal cord injuries; when healthy he’s an athletic and insanely quick quarterback with pinpoint passing, a decent jumper and pesky D. Many teams lack and need such a player but he’s expendable because he’s of less value to the Raptors than anyone. Jose Calderon’s gone public with his desire to start after having a career year with personal highs across the board and the most efficient passing in the league. Ford dominates the ball and looks to score on a team full of jump-shooters; his return from another back injury this season, however inspiring, led to them losing a lot as the season drew to a close. This one’s a no-brainer.

Put a Deadline on Project Andrea

I know the promise of “the next Dirk” seemed alluring but Bargnani looks more like the next Keith Van Horn and can quite often be a two-way liability. His trade value will plummet exponentially with every passing season he fails to improve on his rookie success, so why take a gamble on a guy who you gave plenty of opportunity (to no avail) this season when you can still trade him at (potentially) equal or greater value? Make no mention of an extension ‘til he stops playing like a Care Bear and be prepared to let him walk if he keeps hitting the wall next year, lest he transcend from draft bust to expensive mistake for the Raps.

Keep Sam Mitchell Around

Mitchell’s no doubt going to spend the offseason listening to rumours about his impending demise as any NBA coach would after a disappointing season. There’s a shortage of quality bench bosses in the league and axing a guy who just a season ago was considered the best in the biz would be premature. Uncle Sam’s a passionate motivator who’s been around the league since the Cretacious period; his players respect him and he seems to genuinely care about the team (he’s easily one of the more animated faces when patrolling the sideline). Canning him would possibly evoke resentment from players and usher in a hastily-chosen replacement who almost certainly won’t be able to get them to defend either.

Run like Forrest Gump

Colangelo came to Toronto amidst the massive success of a team he built in Phoenix around a simple philosophy: just score a lot; it’s the object of the game after all. That team may not have won a championship but remained a contender for several years and more importantly played with a flair and enthusiasm that kept fans entertained and opponents struggling to keep up. Toronto has all the makings of Suns 2.0: an efficient point guard who can push the ball, big men who can run the floor and plenty of sharpshooters who, in the right offense, could find enough open looks in transition to bury just about any team. Another trait they share with those Suns, as mentioned before, is both size and ability on D; theirs sucks but maybe if they open up the offense a little more that won’t be as much to their detriment.

Make like John Amaechi and Start Handling Mens Down Low

Toronto’s soft in the post; the trio of Bargs, Bosh and Rasho aren’t power players who can dominantly rebound, intimidate attackers and keep a guy like Dwight Howard in check (22, 18 and 4 swats in the first round). Why not package your superfluous point guard with one of your glut of swingmen for someone like Chris Wilcox, Brandon Bass or even Sideshow Varejao who can wax the boards and bring toughness without slowing the team down or demanding touches on offense. Chris Bosh is overworked as the closest thing to a low-post banger on this team while being a relative welterweight and being looked upon to carry the scoring load most nights. Needless to say he could use some help. Rasho came on nicely at the end of’ the year, but his career trajectory’s on the downward and I question how consistent he’ll be next season. There’s a shortage of quality big men in the East and a serious advantage to be won if Toronto can add a big, athletic body to their rotation.

May 10th Recap - DET@ORL, BOS@CLE

Cavs baby!!!

May 9th Recap - LAL@UTA, May10th Preview

Highlights from the Lakers/ Jazz game:




A Look towards tonight:

Who wants to coach the Knicks?

No seriously, who would want to coach them? Well, apparently these two men do.

VS.

It seems there are two "contenders" in line for the New York Knicks coaching job; Mike D'Antoni and Mark Jackson. One, an offensive minded Euroleague product who has shown he can put wins on the board (mostly in the regular season...) and the other - a New York baller with a high basketball IQ and history with the franchise. The Knicks GM, Donnie Walsh has quite a decision to make. I think Mark would be a better fit for a number of reasons; he is a local guy, he may be able to connect with the players (Stephon, it's a contract year bitch) and he has a knowledge of the game, that could prove effective on BOTH ends of the floor. Would Mike try to implement the Phoenix system that couldn't reach the Finals? I don't know if Eddy Curry's ready for it...wait, he'll likely be shipped if Mike is chosen. Picking Mike means an overhaul of any embedded style New York previously had, meaning a major revamp of the squad. Mark could provide a new outlook for a team that has talent, just no...uhhh...let's call it direction. Regardless, I'll stay out on the same limb I've been on for a while and say they don't make the playoffs again next year. Let the madness begin (continue).

Difference Makers

column by Doyle

Every team left in the 2008 NBA Playoffs has at least one bonafide superstar, some are lucky enough to have two or three. Although these players like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Chris Paul are of the utmost importance to their team’s success I believe it will be the X-Factors that will make the difference of who is playing in June. That is because almost every team has a player that may not be perennial all-star, but when push comes to shove it will be there performances that will either make or break their team’s chances of holding the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.


Los Angeles Lakers

When it comes to the Lakers X-Factor it has to be Lamar Odom. Basically he is the reason I wrote this article. He is AWESOME I can’t state that enough and he is finally in a situation where he can succeed. What I mean by that is he not the first or second option on this ball team (Kobe and Pau). But what he does do is provide a steady third option that can do just about everything including line up at all five positions on the floor. The 6’10” forward is averaging a very productive 14pts 11rebs 4dimes 1blk and 1stl a game. There is no doubt that he has to play well for the Lakers to advance deep into the playoffs. With the absence of young center Andrew Bynum Odom must be a force inside on both ends of the court. So far he has been by averaging 13 boards a game so far in the Jazz series. The Lakers know what they are going to get out of Kobe and Pau and if they can continue to get what they have been getting from South Side Jamaica Queens finest than there is no doubt in my mind that Jack will be seen rocking those ugly sunglasses courtside well into June.


New Orleans Hornets

I get mad when people say Chris Paul has no one around him. That statement is just ludicrous because he an all-star in David West and Peja Stojakovic is joke either. However, the X-Factor of this team has to be Tyson Chandler. Chandler averaged almost 12 and 12 a game for the Southwest division champions. However, it will be his defense on the great big men of the Western Conference that will give the young Hornets a chance to come out of the Wild West. His 13 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game in the Spurs series so far is a big reason the Hornets defended their home court and are up 2-0 on the World Champions. Not to mention he has held the 2-time MVP Tim Duncan to 12 and 6 per game so far in the series. Although Chris Paul and the rest of the dangerous threats on offense are great the Hornets will need there center Tyson Chandler to continue to bring it especially on the defense end of the court if they hope to go deep.


San Antonio Spurs

Ok I may be coping out here but for the life of me I can’t think of an X-Factor for the Spurs. They are the type of team where everyone steps up. Whether it is the Big Three of Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili or the second unit of Finley, Bowen, Thomas, and Oberto the Spurs always seems to get it done. That being said they need to step it up if they don’t want to be done this early in May. Thus the X-Factor for this team is the 3rd Quarter in the Suns series they dominated the 3rd, but they now find themselves down 0-2 to the young Hornets and have been outscored 65-35 in the two games combined. If the Spurs can come out of the locker room strong after half there is no doubt in my mind this series will go back to the BIG EASY tied.

Utah Jazz

Remember when Andrei Kirilenko was considered the future of the Utah Jazz. He could scored (16 a game in 2003-04 and 2004-05 and 15 a game in 2005-06) he could rebound (8 a game in 2005-06) and most importantly he could defend. With his length and quickness he could and still can defend multiple positions. Than last year we had a melt down, AK47 averaged only 8 and 6 per contest and seemed to drop of the map. However, he is back and starting to playing well this year for the Northwest division champions. He will have to bring the AK47 of old if the Jazz want to have any chance of beating the seemingly and so far literally the unbeatable Lakers. If Kirilenko can help to slow Kobe and provide the Jazz with steady rebounding and a solid fourth option there is no reason to think that the Jazz will even this series as it goes back to Utah where they are 37-4 tops in the Association.


Boston Celtics

There is no doubt that the Celtics are the favorite to come out of the weak Eastern Conference. However, they won’t unless they get steady play from their young point guard Rajon Rondo. Forget the Boston Three Party (Garnett, Allen, and Pierce) Rondo will be the difference maker. In their 7 game series against the upstart Hawks Rondo had 51 assists and just 7 turnovers. That is what they need from him folks, he doesn’t need to be Chris Paul or Tony Parker, but what he does have to do is control the offense and distribute the basketball to the Celtic All-Stars. If they can get big time minutes out of him there is no doubt in my mind the C’s won’t have much trouble coming out of the lack luster Eastern Conference.


Detroit Pistons

For the longest time I have felt that Tayshaun Prince was the ultimate X-Factor and the key to the Pistons success. Prince is great and you know every night you’re going to get 13 or 14 point, a couple of rebounds, and great defense. Prince has even stepped it up in the playoffs (17 and 6 per contest). Although he has never been an All-Star Prince plays like one every night if his playoff number continue to stay high the Pistons will undoubtedly make it to their fifth straight Eastern Conference finals and position themselves into get their second ring in the 21st century version of the Detroit Bad Boys.


Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic are a good young team led by Superman Dwight Howard. However, if you watched Wednesday nights game you saw the big fella get some serious help from my main man Rashard Lewis. Lewis had 33 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 dimes. Not to mention he shot 11-15 from floor, 6-8 from the line and a sizzling 5-6 from beyond the arc. I do not expect Lewis to score like that constantly throughout the rest of playoffs, but if Lewis can continue to knock down shots and spread the defense the Magic could just challenge the Pistons in their Eastern Conference semi-finals series. Trust me folks Lewis is the key, for example Lewis was just 2 of 12 from beyond the arc in the Magics game 1 and 2 losses.


Cleveland Cavaliers

I hate to say it but the Cavs are just about done. King James has not looked so royally on Boston’s home court. To make matters worse his teammates have not given him much help. I won’t even waste my time with a Cavs X-Factor, because no one has proven they can step up and run with LBJ. The only chance I give them is if some how LBJ can be Godly at home and the supporting cast can knock down outside shots if that doesn’t happen the King will definitely be run out of his own CASTLE by the Three Wise Men.

*** Shout out to Big Z who actually has come to play in the Celtics series.

PEACES.

May 8th Recap - CLE@BOS, SA@NO

May 7th Recap - DET@ORL, UTA@LAL

Celtics/ Cavs

AJ:
In what was one of the less surprising developments of this year’s postseason, the Celtics finished off the Hawks Sunday afternoon with one of the more brutal ass-whuppings in recent memory, smothering the Hawks’ offense before they developed any kind of rhythm. The resulting bad passes, forced jumpers and Celtics transition buckets killed a team that was, based on expectations and their play on the road both this series and throughout the regular season, doomed from the get. Give Atlanta credit where they’re due; they took this series 2 or 3 games further than anyone thought and for the first time in ages they made significant strides back to respectability this season. This time next year, after another season of growth, this squad could be on right end of a Game 7.

But for now it’s Boston moving on to face Lebron ‘n Friends, who surprised me with both their consistency and intensity in the first round. They weren’t phased by the lame attempts at psychological warfare; scoring well and playing stingy D against the high-octane Wizards. As good as they were, they need to be even better against the Celtics, who responded to the pressure of a seventh game by absolutely obliterating the Hawks and will come into this series tired, but fired the f*** up. What should worry the Cavs, of course, is Boston’s D; the best in the league and the kind of solid-as-a-whole unit that can give Lebron problems (see: NBA Finals, 2007, Games 1-4). Cleveland got huge games from Daniel Gibson and Wally Sczerbiagsdhak to close out the Wiz, and they’ll need to keep shooting well to keep the D on its toes. As was true in the clinching game of the last two series they’ve won, it’s when their shooters are keeping defenders honest and allowing Bron to operate that the Cavs are at their best. The battle on the boards will also be crucial; Boston dominated the glass against a thin Hawks frontcourt but will have to make adjustments against the best offensive-rebounding team in the L. Although both teams can play a physical game, I can see Boston struggling if Lebron can attack the basket and draw fouls. Their bench has stood up but Leon Powe’s not KG and Eddie House is no Jesus Shuttlesworth. Needless to say the King needs to play carefully if guarding Paul Pierce; Cleveland can’t stay in a game if he can’t stay on the court. So what’s this series coming down to? Offensive execution. If the Cavs can move the ball and hit open shots with consistency they’ll give themselves a better chance than the requisite two games James gets them against any East team. I think they can do it; just not well enough to win.

Celtics in 7


Christian:
Celts/Cavs…I’d like to hope it will be highly contested. Both teams have lacked consistency at times; Boston more recently in their surprising seven game series with Atlanta, and the Cavs..well, all season. Cleveland looks to finally be in stride, for perhaps the first time since that 11 player swap that went down. While Larry and Drew pray Mike D’Antoni will get the Bulls’ job, Delonte, Joe, Ben and Wally are ready for this post-season push. The Celtics are capable of playing impeccable defense and have the star power required to have reliable offensive outputs. The Cavs are more of a wildcard in both respects; some nights Lebron can play sick and they’ll still get trounced, and other nights an unlikely hero like Gibson will lead the charge for a win and their defence has never been a sure thing in the King James era.
At times, Cleveland gives us flashes of brilliance, but they still maintain several glaring weaknesses; perimeter defence (Ray Allen will get those open looks), a Jekyll and Hyde fast break attack (often favouring a ‘touch and go’ halfcourt game over the ‘get out and run’ easy points game) and a far inferior supporting cast. Would I rather have the Celts starting 5? Yes. Would I rather have the Celts’ bench? Yes. Can one player change the entire outlook of this series? An overwhelming yes. The 2006-07 Detroit Pistons could certainly tell you about that last question. Detroit was hands down a better overall “team” last year, but the efforts of Lebron James can be enough to outwill and outperform any team in the L if he’s feeling it. If the rest of the Cavs can play above average, then the Celts could be in trouble. I believe this series will come down to Boston’s ability to lock down the Cavs and slow the game down to a pace they’re comfortable with. The Celts are a more sound basketball team and there is often a certain predictability to the performance you will get from there. Cleveland could get worked by 30 in the first two games and still pull this one out if Bron’ remained pissed. Against what I really want to happen, I’ll take the Celtics because they probably will win. I am also quite interested in the KG vs. Ben Wallace match-up…maybe Big Ben will finally pay some dividends.

Celtics in 6


Let's see what Bron has done to this "defensive powerhouse" in the regular season..

May 5th recap - Pope Chris Paul

Peep the recap of the DET/ORL and NO/SA

The Second Season's Second Round

The first round’s gone and along with it, the build-up of anticipation, the playoff jitters, the title pretenders, and of course Tracy McGrady. This year’s opening games brought the coronation of a new point God, one man’s emasculation of an entire franchise that dared defy his reign, the defense of a dynasty and the seemingly imminent doom of two squads that could never quite get there, a thrilling David vs. Goliath bout out East (of all places) and the public execution of the monkey on Kobe Bryant’s back. Considering none of the West series were as close as anyone thought, the first round wasn’t all that bad; at best it was more entertaining than most opening rounds, at worst it was a great excuse to lounge through a tripleheader on an almost nightly basis. The great news, aside from the Cavs moving on, is that we’re only getting started and there’s more action than a John Woo flick left to catch. Let’s dive into the second round:

Bestern Semis


Los Angeles Lakers (1) vs Utah Jazz (4)

AJ: Utah’s a fine squad that played passable ball in beating the Rockets. They’re reigning conference finalists with a diverse core of players who can hurt teams on either end of the court. Not to slight them, but their season’s about to come to an abrupt halt. The Lake Show stormed through the first round with the only sweep, both defeating and demoralizing the Nuggets. They played the kind fast-paced game that Dallas wished they could’ve in the 1/8 tilt last year; moving the ball efficiently, maintaining their cool amid erratic D and getting huge games from their go-to-guy. Utah just seems too slow for the Lakers, who are looking increasingly confident and capable of matching up with anyone. Mehmet isn’t enough of a force to stop Pau in the post, Kobe will feast on the Brewer/Korver combo, and if Jerry Sloan wants to go zone, LA’s got enough gunners to make him regret it. Utah’s going to be very hard-pressed to stop the Lakers from scoring, while themselves having broke the century mark just once against the Rockets. I’ll give the Jazz two games at home (maybe) but LA’s just been playing way too fluidly for me to really believe Utah’s fucking with them.

Lakers in 6

Christian: This a match-up of two great teams. The Utah Jazz have had good playoff success in the Deron/Boozer era, and the whole team package looks better than last year when they made it to the Conference Finals. Kyle has fit in well, and Mehmet is playing very stellar. That said, the Lakers are playing championship ball night in and night out – something that can’t be said so easily about the Jazz. Add an unguardable MVP who is making his team better than he ever has before, and a big, white acquisition who beasted Marcus Camby thoroughly last round, and you’re left with a sizeable obstacle for the Jazz. While Kobe and Pau terrorize defenses; Derek is a seasoned vet who can make shots, Lamar is looking as versataile as ever and the bench has been simply great. The Jazz have had trouble putting up big points recently, despite what we saw in their regular season averages, and the Lakers are a very good, disciplined defensive team. I’ll give the Jazz the benefit of a win at home because of an insane Boozer performance. I could cover my ass and go Lakers in 6, but I think this will be closer to a sweep than a highly competitive series.

Lakers in 5


New Orleans Hornets (2) vs San Antonio Spurs (3)

AJ: This one’ll be a doozy. If New Orleans is ever gonna fall off, this is their time; going headstrong into the reigning champs, themselves fresh off a convincing win over a tough opponent. I know I’m far from alone in that I’ll be rooting for them like I was one of these guys http://imdb.com/title/tt0115851. It’s going to be a tough draw both ways though; Pretty Tony and Mr. Paul are going to face much tougher defenders in each other than the Playstation Skills Challenge dummys they ran circles around in their first five games; they’ll wear each other out. David West’s jumper will keep Timmy D honest and off the block, but he’ll have to stay out of foul trouble when he gets posted up. Peja will get to relax on D against Bowen, but will be tested more than ever for his buckets. They’re both well-coached and have deep, playoff-tested benches. They even split the season series; it could go either way, like the Spurs’ Queens against the Hornets’ Ace-King…fuck it, I’m having such a serious time deciding this one that I’m going with the sentimental favourite. Flop brings an ace.

Hornets in 7

Christian: The most intriguing series of the 2nd round in my opinion. On one side, the “best team of the last decade”, whose winning percentage is as high as any team in professional sports and is full of (almost) entirely 30 something year olds preparing for another basic playoff run and subsequent chip’. On the other side, a team that has been surprising everyone all season, who is led by the best point guard in the NBA. The Hornets, run and operated by Chris Paul, have found a way to beat the league’s best on a fairly consistant basis, and were only a few botched plays away from being the #1 seed. I’d like to think the Hornets will be able to put up loads of points, but history would tell us otherwise when you’re rompin with the champs. Seeing how good Tony has been in the playoffs, coupled with the model big man who has been Icy (Timmy son) and a monsterous wildcard in Manu, I can’t bet against the Spurs. Their style bores me and I pray to God that Tyson and David West light them up, but San Antonio’s pedigree is forever etched in my mind. There will be an eventual changing of the guard in the West, but with the Spurs still on top of their game, 2000-7-08 isn’t the year.

‘Tony P calls a pick, watch Timmy switch and kick it to Bob Horry for a shot that’s sick
When there’s a coin ya gotta flip, the heads say Greg Popovich’ - Ghostface Streezah

San Antonio in 7


Leastern Semis


Detroit Pistons (2) vs Orlando Magic (3)

AJ: Neither of these teams did anything outstanding in the first round (Detroit did their usual act, mailing in a few against the Sixers while Orlando actually allowed the Raptors to keep a few games close and win one while playing basketball that no existing adjectives are vulgar enough to describe) so this series is up for grabs. Orlando has a talented young team, a guy nobody in East can really lock down and lofty expectations -http://slamonline.com/online/2008/05/expectations-are-high-in%20orlando while Detroit proved in last year’s East Finals that they can fall asleep long enough for a worse team to beat them in six. Neither team matches up terribly; though the Piston bigs will have their hands full with D12 on the block, their guards might win them the series. I like Jameer Nelson’s game but he’s outclassed by Billups at both ends and Keith Bogans is too slow to guard Rip and surely remembers from Wildcat practices that Tayshaun’s too long for him. Their athletic but none-too-intimidating benches may tilt the scales in this series, especially for the Magic. If they can steal one on the road and get their whole rotation playing energetic, cohesive ball, then they could win this series. Detroit’s more experienced, but I honestly feel like Orlando’s hungrier. That being said, the ever-complacent Pistons haven’t looked this shaky in the playoffs in awhile, and if they’re ever to play with a sense of urgency, now’s the time.

Pistons in 6

Christian: A very even matched series in my mind. Detroit has been that staple in the Eastern Conference Finals, rarely facing serious opposition until then (I’m soooo sorry 06-07 Bulls) and they have the playoff-ready nucleus that the Magic can only wait for. I really don’t think anyone can guard Dwight on the block, in the whole Eastern Conference, so I expect him to continue the slow waltz of >15 rebounds he commenced against Canada’s Euroleague squad. I’d think the Pistons will be able to lock down the supporting cast, but this series could come down to Rashard or Hedo just thoroughly outplaying Rip or Tayshaun and it could be a wrap. Looking at past years, it would be appropriate for Detroit to clean up here, but the Magic are surprisingly solid. The more I think about it, the more I feel like Orlando is gonna take this. I seem to remember the type of player that led them to the Finals in 95’…a huge, athletic, black center who dunks effortlessly. At this moment in time, would I rather have Sheed or Hedo…well, I won’t tell you for AJ’s sake. Detroit needs to get to the line, and both teams want to dictate the 3 point game within the game. If Phili can steal a few games, then I like Orlando. The fact that their coach looks like Super Mario doesn't hurt either.

Orlando in 7


Cleveland Cavaliers (4) vs Boston Celtics (1) or Atlanta Hawks (8) *currently undecided

AJ: And while the Celtics suit up again on Sunday, instead of squaring off with the Cavs in a second-round marquee they’ll be trying to avoid becoming the second 65+ win team to be merked in the first round in as many years. As a Cavs fan I’m happy we might face a worse team and either way a more fatigued one. As a basketball fan I’m delirious that this might happen again, an upset of this magnitude only comes around twice every so often. As a Kevin Garnett fan…I’m slightly discouraged. This guy needs a crack at a title. In 2004, the only year KG’s ever survived the first round, as his T-Wolves were headed into Game 7 against Sac-Town in the West semis KG was…well, let him tell it: ''This is it…It's for all the marbles. I'm sitting in the house loading up the pump, I'm loading up the Uzis, I've got a couple of M-16's, couple of nines, couple of joints with some silencers on them, couple of grenades, got a missile launcher. I'm ready for war.'' Several hours later, he hung 32 and 21 with 4 steals and 5 blocks on the Kings in a W. Here’s hoping all those years in Minnesota didn’t totally snuff out that fire.

Christian: There will be a more thorough look at this series, once it is known who the Cavs will beat…err play. And by the way peep the remaining Western Conference point gods of note (sorry Dfish there wasn't one with the 4 of you)...old man Steve Nash is nowhere to be seen. These boys still got alot of all star calibre years left in them..Pretty Toney's the oldest...at 25. Who do you think is going to the promised land?

The improbable has happened

You didn't see it coming. I sure as hell didn't see it coming. The Boston Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks are going to a seventh game. This series has proved to be no walk in the park for the Celts who won 60 something games this year. Does their regular season prowess even matter at this point?

The Hawks have proved they can compete with the Celts on a regular basis. Boston can't just play good and win anymore, they need to play exceptionally well. Atlanta is getting great efforts from their young and inexperienced line-up (6 players in double figures in Game #6). Another interesting stat is the 3 point percentage; Boston shot 4-19, while Atlanta shot 1-7. You'd think Boston would realize their shooting was lousy and try to pound it in for easy buckets. The truth is, they haven't had an easy time getting all the looks they want. A high octane, seemingly unpredictable team has forced a game 7. Sure, Boston has home court, but this one could be legendary.

GO HAWKS

A Few Things I’ve Learned in the First Round

column by AJ

Exams ended last week for me, bringing school to a close and leaving me with an ass-load of free time to catch the all the opening round playoff action. It’s been a funny first week and a bit this year; the two series everyone wrote off are knotted. Through all the stunning surprises, huge performances and thrilling contests, there’s much to be said about the teams vying for the Larry O and the players that lead them. Here’s some of the finer points that can be taken away from the playoffs so far:


You, Me and Your Mom Were Wrong About the Spurs

This was supposed to be the year the wheels fell off in San Antonio; an even-digit year where the West was tougher than ever and the Spurs drew a first round bout with a dangerous contender who was chomping at the bit to avenge last year’s second-round theft, er…defeat. The Suns came out guns blazing, putting the Spurs in a double-digit hole early in Game 1, but they clawed back into it, won an epic opener and rode the ensuing confidence to a comfortable win in five. They controlled tempo, played frustrating defence and consistently made crucial plays down the stretch of close games; (painfully) reminding us why we all hate them, and why they should never be bet against.

Chris Paul is not Human

I was very vocal in my concerns about Ason Kidd’s ability to guard this guy; I felt like Miss Cleo when, as I’d been telling anyone who’d listen for weeks, his disregard for Kidd’s dignity decided this series. Dude’s playoff debut was a 25-6-12 clinic; he played near flawless ball, hitting half his shots, playing his usual tough D and rocking a 10-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. No shit. Chris has essentially just sent a team that a month ago considered itself a contender back to the drawing board; Kobe’s still my MVP but knowing Paul has another decade of this calibre play left in him, I’m sure he’ll be getting a few of his own.

Pissing Lebron Off Just Isn’t a Smart Move

Why not? Because he thrives off of naysayers. Even though Washington’s roster represents the comfortable majority of people who would ever put Lebron on blast, he’s been proving critics wrong his whole career. Earlier this season, he responded to jokes from Chris Bosh’s sideline-sitting girlfriend by dropping 24 on Toronto in a game-winning fourth quarter rally. He’s addressed the Wizards’ bashing by putting up his typical eye-popping stat lines en route to a 3-1 series lead. And in the highly unlikely event he doesn’t prove his point on the hardwood (like in that Game 3 aberration), Jay-Z’s down to diss you.

The Mavs, Suns and Raps are set to appear on 'Change of Heart'

There’s many cases to be made about why these teams haven’t performed in the playoffs and what pieces they’re missing. Maybe Dallas needs a low-post scorer. Maybe Phoenix needs more bodies on D. Maybe Toronto needs to ditch their ball-dominating PG on a team full of spot-up shooters and get tougher inside. What’s obvious in all three cases is that moves need to be made. This will be a big offseason for all three franchises; the players, coaches and front office will all be under heavy scrutiny entering a summer of uncertainty as they try to break the cycle of promising seasons leading to prompt playoffs exits. (exhibit 1: the Mavs canning the Little General mere hours after I wrote this)

The Detroit Pistons Could Power Your Thermometer

Mercurial: characterized by rapid and unpredictable changeableness of mood
1mer·cu·ri·al
Pronunciation:
\(ˌ)mər-ˈkyu̇r-ē-əl\
Function:
adjective

Are the resident Eastern playoff threats really struggling to put away the upstart Sixers? Or are they just the textbook definition of a mood-swinging squad that plays on par with its competition? Bet on the latter. The Pistons have for years been accused of being complacent at times, but it was never more evident than Game 3 when they rolled over and let Philly put a 20-point ass-whupping on them, waiting until Game 4 to return the favour with their own comfortable win. They’ll likely end this series in six, but if they can’t stay consistent against the rawest team in the playoffs, I’m not optimistic about their title hopes.


‘Melo and Josh got 5 on It

It was evident throughout the first round exits these young stars helped usher in through their general indifference that they’d rather be posted up on a plush couch with a ten-sack, a few Swishers and a How High DVD. After Melo shot 5-420 in Game 3, he accused his whole team of quitting (which, despite how obvious it was to everyone watching, should never be admitted to by a team’s ‘leader’) rather than accepting blame for being a marquee player who had repeatedly missed routine layups. His recent DUI (on the morning of his squad’s most important game this season), however unfortunately, only punctuates his character issues. Josh Howard hasn’t been any more of a model teammate, waxing about his offseason indulgence right before a serious dud in a must-win game for the Mavs. Well congrats, fellas. Thanks in part to your ineptitude, you’ve got an extra couple weeks to get high as fuck while your names are inevitably floated around in trade talks. Enjoy.


It Really Isn’t Tracy’s Fault

Seriously people. Can we lay off the guy? He’s trying his hardest. For just as long, Kevin Garnett never won a playoff series. Rather than land on the butt end of everyone’s jokes, KG was subject to much sympathy; his teams were never good enough to get over the hump and Kevin McHale took the blame for not putting better players around him. Now, while I know T-Mac’s not the ass-busting, influential leader that Garnett is, for his career McGrady’s dropped 28,7,6 with over a steal and block/game in the playoffs. He’s been beset by injuries both to himself and valuable teammates and still managed to get the hobbling Rockets this far after everyone wrote them off when Yao went down. It seems fair at this point to say that factors beyond his control have led to his seemingly eternal first-round damnation. McGrady’s a much more mature player than the youngster who boldly forecast a victory over the Hornets in ’02, and if Yao can keep his feet under him next year he’ll get that playoff run he’s been waiting for.

It’s (still) Anyone’s Trophy

Among the things still undecided from the first round are consensus favourites in either conference. It’s anyone’s guess which of the West titans will emerge from the upcoming clashes that could go down as instant classics. All three already-advanced teams were dominant in winning far easier than most would’ve thought. In the East, the two perceived powerhouses are having trouble closing out two of the wackest playoff teams we’ve seen in awhile and look increasingly susceptible to an upset (never underestimate the Lebron factor) their stamina and confidence both rattled by their surprising opposition. Either way, the conference semis and every ensuing round are sure to be highly-contested and (assuming either the Spurs or Jazz get bounced) exciting bouts that hold plenty of promise for the birth of new rivalries, superstars and even dynasties; maybe even enough to make up for last year’s “Finals”.