Friday, May 28, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Game 5: Magic slam the Celtics
For most of the series, Boston got the lucky bounces fall their way. They were the aggressors and the Magic knew it. The Magic won a hard fought overtime victory in Boston. Yet, the question was this: Could the Magic ride the euphoria and relief of Game 3 to victory in their friendly confines?
Tonight, the question was unequivocally an emphatic yes. For the first time, the Orlando three point shooting came back to life. They shot 13-25 from three point land as they shelled the Celtics with absolute authority. They outrebounded the Celtics 43-26 and were efficient from the Free throw line as they shot 80%. Incredibly, the Celtics injuries came one after another. First, it started with Glen Davis getting his bell rung after defending Dwight Howard. Then, Marquis Daniels suffering a concussion on the defensive side. Yikes.
Jameer Nelson scored 24 points and was instrumental in the third quarter. He scored 9 points as well as a rainbow three pointer in the third quarter and was 4-5 from downtown. Nelson dribbled into the lane at will for easy lay-ins and free throw opportunities. Since overtime of Game 3, it's been Nelson who has outplayed Rondo.
Dwight Howard was a beast as he frustrated Perkins, bullied Davis for lay-ins, hook shoots and poster dunks. He was an enforcer in the paint and ran roughshod on the Celtics after Perkins was thrown out with two technical fouls. This may be bad news for the Celtics because he may have to serve a one game suspension with 7 technical fouls. Yet, the second tech may be under review because he was walking away and still got thrown out. Strange?
Rashard Lewis came to life as he scored 14 points and showed on occasion that he is more than a 3pt. shooter by driving to the lane. He seemed to be on the mend after saying that he had been battling a virus during the entire series.
JJ Reddick was masterful as he spurred the Magic in the 2nd Quarter to a lead they would never relinquish. His shot was sublime and so was his passing. It's worth mentioning that every time Reddick is on the floor, the Magic are +20 points and -46 points when he is not. Hmmm....
As for the Celtics, they were flat and uninterested. Yet, they still had a chance to win the game. The Celtic big men were constantly bullied not just by Howard but by the refs. They never adjusted and it hurt them big time. They must deal with injuries to Marquis Daniels and Glen Davis who both suffered freak concussions. For the Celtics, their thin lineup just got a lot thinner.
Rondo's free throw shooting was a liability as he was Shaq-esque with his 5-11 free throw shooting. Pierce was perfect from the charity stripe but played a lot of minutes to compensate the for the suddenly shrinking Celtic frontline. Ray Allen was nearly invisible after the 1st Quarter. Rasheed Wallace nailed 3-5 three pointers but was in foul trouble throughout.
Heading into Friday, the Magic have an excellent chance to win Game 6 and do what 93 teams have never done before come back from a 3-0 deficit. It may be the greatest comeback in sports and another dagger to the hearts of Boston sports fans who recently were the recipient of 3-0 collapse with their NHL hockey club the Boston Bruins losing to the Philadelphia Flyers. I guess anything is possible!!
Tonight, the question was unequivocally an emphatic yes. For the first time, the Orlando three point shooting came back to life. They shot 13-25 from three point land as they shelled the Celtics with absolute authority. They outrebounded the Celtics 43-26 and were efficient from the Free throw line as they shot 80%. Incredibly, the Celtics injuries came one after another. First, it started with Glen Davis getting his bell rung after defending Dwight Howard. Then, Marquis Daniels suffering a concussion on the defensive side. Yikes.
Jameer Nelson scored 24 points and was instrumental in the third quarter. He scored 9 points as well as a rainbow three pointer in the third quarter and was 4-5 from downtown. Nelson dribbled into the lane at will for easy lay-ins and free throw opportunities. Since overtime of Game 3, it's been Nelson who has outplayed Rondo.
Dwight Howard was a beast as he frustrated Perkins, bullied Davis for lay-ins, hook shoots and poster dunks. He was an enforcer in the paint and ran roughshod on the Celtics after Perkins was thrown out with two technical fouls. This may be bad news for the Celtics because he may have to serve a one game suspension with 7 technical fouls. Yet, the second tech may be under review because he was walking away and still got thrown out. Strange?
Rashard Lewis came to life as he scored 14 points and showed on occasion that he is more than a 3pt. shooter by driving to the lane. He seemed to be on the mend after saying that he had been battling a virus during the entire series.
JJ Reddick was masterful as he spurred the Magic in the 2nd Quarter to a lead they would never relinquish. His shot was sublime and so was his passing. It's worth mentioning that every time Reddick is on the floor, the Magic are +20 points and -46 points when he is not. Hmmm....
As for the Celtics, they were flat and uninterested. Yet, they still had a chance to win the game. The Celtic big men were constantly bullied not just by Howard but by the refs. They never adjusted and it hurt them big time. They must deal with injuries to Marquis Daniels and Glen Davis who both suffered freak concussions. For the Celtics, their thin lineup just got a lot thinner.
Rondo's free throw shooting was a liability as he was Shaq-esque with his 5-11 free throw shooting. Pierce was perfect from the charity stripe but played a lot of minutes to compensate the for the suddenly shrinking Celtic frontline. Ray Allen was nearly invisible after the 1st Quarter. Rasheed Wallace nailed 3-5 three pointers but was in foul trouble throughout.
Heading into Friday, the Magic have an excellent chance to win Game 6 and do what 93 teams have never done before come back from a 3-0 deficit. It may be the greatest comeback in sports and another dagger to the hearts of Boston sports fans who recently were the recipient of 3-0 collapse with their NHL hockey club the Boston Bruins losing to the Philadelphia Flyers. I guess anything is possible!!
Game 3: The Suns bench deep fries the Lakers.
Last Week, every fan blasted the Suns' matador defense in Los Angeles. They said this series was over before it started. They viewed the Suns as a second-rate team ready for the slaughter.
Tonight, I think it's safe to say that the Suns were anything but a weakling. They played a swarming defense and showed how Suns' basketball was played during the entire season and in the Spurs' series. They showed us a gritty team willing to fight, which was nonexistent during the 7 seconds or less era of Mike D'Antoni. Give credit to Alvin Gentry for a masterful job the last two games. His use of a zone defense helped stymie and bamboozle the Laker Juggernaut. Since game 2, he has been out-coaching Phil Jackson, which begs the question: Is Phil even worth $12 million a year?
In the last 2 games, the Suns have gone to the free throw line 74-33. They outrebounded the Lakers 51-36 by just purely out-hustling them and banging the boards. The Lakers free throw shooting was nonexistent in these two games as they chucked up three pointer after three pointer which played right to the Suns' hands. The Suns bench lit up the Lakers bench 54-20 in this game which explains why the Laker five were on the floor besides Bynum were on the floor for more than 30 minutes. In addition, the Suns have beaten the Lakers for the 7th consecutive time at home during the Playoffs dating back to the infamous Game 7 of the 2006 Playoffs.
The bench for the Suns were on fire and provided the spark needed to tie this series. For three games, Channing Frye was dormant as he could not find his shooting stroke. Tonight, Frye awoke with a vengeance. In the second and fourth quarters, his 3pt. shooting led the charge that eventually led to the Suns putting up big leads. His 3pt. shooting shell-shocked the Lakers and he would continue the barrage in the fourth and deciding quarter. Yet, he was not the only smoking gun on this bench.
Jared Dudley joined in the 3pt. hit parade as he knocked down 3-6 three point shots. None bigger than the one in the fourth quarter that helped spring a game deciding 9-0 run in the fourth quarter. His defense stymied Kobe in the final quarter after he lit the Suns like a Chinese firecracker in the second and third quarter.
Goran Dragic was a magician as he hypnotized the Laker guards and big men to sleep with his sneaky dribbling as well as his passing. None more exciting than when he sent Fisher to school with a dazzling dribble and crazy lay-in that brought the house down in Phoenix. It's a guarantee that it will be a you-tube sensation within hours of this post.
Lou Amundson pestered and fought for every loose ball in this game. He played with fire and energy that was nonexistent in Los Angeles just a week before. Every big play by Amundson, you could hear the fans chant Lou! bellow out like the wind rustling in the fall.
Yet, I cannot help but wonder why this bench has never gotten a nickname. They deserve one after their performance this season and in Game 4. I believe that this bench should be called Desert Swarm. The bench swarms its opponents with their energy and then routs them within a blink of an eye. This was the case with their 3pt. shooting, energetic defense and their penchant for turning close games into comfortable leads.
Robin Lopez was the energizer bunny for the Suns as he set the tone early in the game by working the trenches and keeping the Laker big men off their comfort level. He has gradually gotten better with each game in this series and as his confidence grows so do the Phoenix Suns. I guess he is the barometer for this team as he goes so goes the Suns.
Nash, Richardson, Hill and Amare played a B game as the Suns' bench picked up the slack. It meant they could relax and enjoy the bench put on a clinic of how a bench should play in the NBA. It was reminiscent of the Showtime Lakers when the bench would play the final quarter as the starters rested early.
As for the Lakers, the only thing that killed them was their bench and Pau Gasol disappearing in this game. The Laker bench showed their true colors in this series as they played timid in their time on the floor. It was evident in the second and fourth quarters as the Suns' bench shelled them with 3pt. basket after 3pt. basket. The entire team's defensive rotations were late or lacking which led to those back breaking three pointers in the first place.
Pau Gasol played like a marshmallow and was helpless throughout. In fact, the Suns big men mugged and robbed Gasol for every rebound throughout the game. They denied Gasol position in the post and made him work for every basket, which was nonexistent in the two games in Los Angeles.
Andrew Bynum played effective in some stretches. Yet, he was no match for the Suns' speed and they picked him apart with their penetration rendering him a liability. His running was labored and I cannot help but wonder if his knees can hold any longer as the series wears on.
Lamar Odom played a better game after being invisible in Game 3. Unfortunately, he was a one-man army for the Laker bench fending off the Desert Swarm. Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown were nowhere to be found. The only evidence of their existence was in the box score. They need to pick it up or they will be looking for another job next season.
Kobe Bryant was brilliant but like the 2006 and 2007 playoffs his efforts were for naught. He lit the Suns' in the 2nd and 3rd Quarter with a determination that the Lakers would not lose this game. He made 3pt. shot after 3pt. shot and brought the Lakers back from the brink in the 3rd Quarter. Unfortunately, he was never heard from again in the fourth quarter as the Suns' made the entire Laker team besides Kobe beat them.
The Lakers must hit the drawing board as a pivotal game 5 awaits them in Los Angeles in less than 48 hours. They must play with the precision of a surgeon to combat the zone defense, making the Suns' pay for doubling Gasol and finding a way to do the things that got them the 2-0 lead in Los Angeles. We shall see if the Lakers still have the heart of the champion or if they are a scarecrow with all straw and no heart.
Tonight, I think it's safe to say that the Suns were anything but a weakling. They played a swarming defense and showed how Suns' basketball was played during the entire season and in the Spurs' series. They showed us a gritty team willing to fight, which was nonexistent during the 7 seconds or less era of Mike D'Antoni. Give credit to Alvin Gentry for a masterful job the last two games. His use of a zone defense helped stymie and bamboozle the Laker Juggernaut. Since game 2, he has been out-coaching Phil Jackson, which begs the question: Is Phil even worth $12 million a year?
In the last 2 games, the Suns have gone to the free throw line 74-33. They outrebounded the Lakers 51-36 by just purely out-hustling them and banging the boards. The Lakers free throw shooting was nonexistent in these two games as they chucked up three pointer after three pointer which played right to the Suns' hands. The Suns bench lit up the Lakers bench 54-20 in this game which explains why the Laker five were on the floor besides Bynum were on the floor for more than 30 minutes. In addition, the Suns have beaten the Lakers for the 7th consecutive time at home during the Playoffs dating back to the infamous Game 7 of the 2006 Playoffs.
The bench for the Suns were on fire and provided the spark needed to tie this series. For three games, Channing Frye was dormant as he could not find his shooting stroke. Tonight, Frye awoke with a vengeance. In the second and fourth quarters, his 3pt. shooting led the charge that eventually led to the Suns putting up big leads. His 3pt. shooting shell-shocked the Lakers and he would continue the barrage in the fourth and deciding quarter. Yet, he was not the only smoking gun on this bench.
Jared Dudley joined in the 3pt. hit parade as he knocked down 3-6 three point shots. None bigger than the one in the fourth quarter that helped spring a game deciding 9-0 run in the fourth quarter. His defense stymied Kobe in the final quarter after he lit the Suns like a Chinese firecracker in the second and third quarter.
Goran Dragic was a magician as he hypnotized the Laker guards and big men to sleep with his sneaky dribbling as well as his passing. None more exciting than when he sent Fisher to school with a dazzling dribble and crazy lay-in that brought the house down in Phoenix. It's a guarantee that it will be a you-tube sensation within hours of this post.
Lou Amundson pestered and fought for every loose ball in this game. He played with fire and energy that was nonexistent in Los Angeles just a week before. Every big play by Amundson, you could hear the fans chant Lou! bellow out like the wind rustling in the fall.
Yet, I cannot help but wonder why this bench has never gotten a nickname. They deserve one after their performance this season and in Game 4. I believe that this bench should be called Desert Swarm. The bench swarms its opponents with their energy and then routs them within a blink of an eye. This was the case with their 3pt. shooting, energetic defense and their penchant for turning close games into comfortable leads.
Robin Lopez was the energizer bunny for the Suns as he set the tone early in the game by working the trenches and keeping the Laker big men off their comfort level. He has gradually gotten better with each game in this series and as his confidence grows so do the Phoenix Suns. I guess he is the barometer for this team as he goes so goes the Suns.
Nash, Richardson, Hill and Amare played a B game as the Suns' bench picked up the slack. It meant they could relax and enjoy the bench put on a clinic of how a bench should play in the NBA. It was reminiscent of the Showtime Lakers when the bench would play the final quarter as the starters rested early.
As for the Lakers, the only thing that killed them was their bench and Pau Gasol disappearing in this game. The Laker bench showed their true colors in this series as they played timid in their time on the floor. It was evident in the second and fourth quarters as the Suns' bench shelled them with 3pt. basket after 3pt. basket. The entire team's defensive rotations were late or lacking which led to those back breaking three pointers in the first place.
Pau Gasol played like a marshmallow and was helpless throughout. In fact, the Suns big men mugged and robbed Gasol for every rebound throughout the game. They denied Gasol position in the post and made him work for every basket, which was nonexistent in the two games in Los Angeles.
Andrew Bynum played effective in some stretches. Yet, he was no match for the Suns' speed and they picked him apart with their penetration rendering him a liability. His running was labored and I cannot help but wonder if his knees can hold any longer as the series wears on.
Lamar Odom played a better game after being invisible in Game 3. Unfortunately, he was a one-man army for the Laker bench fending off the Desert Swarm. Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown were nowhere to be found. The only evidence of their existence was in the box score. They need to pick it up or they will be looking for another job next season.
Kobe Bryant was brilliant but like the 2006 and 2007 playoffs his efforts were for naught. He lit the Suns' in the 2nd and 3rd Quarter with a determination that the Lakers would not lose this game. He made 3pt. shot after 3pt. shot and brought the Lakers back from the brink in the 3rd Quarter. Unfortunately, he was never heard from again in the fourth quarter as the Suns' made the entire Laker team besides Kobe beat them.
The Lakers must hit the drawing board as a pivotal game 5 awaits them in Los Angeles in less than 48 hours. They must play with the precision of a surgeon to combat the zone defense, making the Suns' pay for doubling Gasol and finding a way to do the things that got them the 2-0 lead in Los Angeles. We shall see if the Lakers still have the heart of the champion or if they are a scarecrow with all straw and no heart.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Game 2: Celtic Pride strangles the Magic
It was a game that was so oddly familiar to Sunday that it felt like a rerun during a summer night or cold winter night. In the First Quarter, the Celtics jumped out to an 11 point lead but Orlando came back. Yet, Boston would take control of the game much like the third quarter to take a large lead into the final quarter.
Now, if u watched Game 1, the Magic made a run in the fourth and it was no different in this game. They clawed their back and took a one point lead. Orlando had Boston on the ropes. They had Kendrick Perkins foul out and Rasheed Wallace on the bench with five fouls. In fact, 33% of the Celtic team that played were in foul trouble. Rajon Rondo and the Celtics were being too cute with their fundamental passes that were becoming turnovers after initially leading to layups and dunks earlier. Everything seemed to favor Orlando but they lost. How do they lose with all that momentum at home?
This game was uneven as was the officiating that I cannot help but comprehend how this was unfolding. In fact, I am at a loss for words. Yet, I know one thing: The Celtics made the big plays when they had to while the Magic did not. The Celtics championship poise was on display along with the Magic playing like chumps.
History is against the Magic as they are 0-5 All Time in a Best of 7 series when they are down 0-2 in a series. Yet, for the Magic they have broken a streak with impossible odds just last year. Just ask Boston who was 32-0 when leading 3-2 in a series. Anyway, here are some players and moments that deserve recognition:
Play of the Game: Kevin Garnett
The Celtics were down by 1 point and the Magic had clawed their back from an 11 point deficit heading into the Fourth Quarter. Garnett gets the ball and as the shot clock winds down, knocks a fall away jumper that was pretty much gave the Celtics the lead for good. He had 10 points and 9 rebounds but his last bucket turned out to be the biggest of the game.
Player of the Game: Rajon Rondo
Rondo controlled the game from over 40 minutes. He made timely baskets as the shot clock went down that would make Isiah Thomas and Tony Parker proud. His passes were extraordinary and gutsy. He was the straw that stirred the Celtics cocktail that proved too deadly for the Orlando Magic.
Zeroes of the Game: Four Way tie: Vince Carter, JJ Redick, Rashard Lewis and the Refs.
Vince had a decent game throughout for the Magic. With 32 seconds left, VC drove to the lane and got fouled by Paul Pierce. He had a chance to cut the Celtics lead to 1. What did Vince do? He went to the line and clanged both free throws that drew echoes of Nick Anderson in the 1995 NBA Finals. Not only did he just bailed out Paul Pierce for his dumb foul and but Carter made himself a spot in the Orlando Magic playoff moments of infamy.
JJ Redick was excellent throughout but one bonehead play really sealed the Magic's fate. After KG missed a contested jumper, Redick inexplicably dribbled the ball in transition and called a timeout. Instead, of having the ball at the frontcourt, the Magic took the ball from the spot that Reddick called timeout. This led to Jameer Nelson trying to shoot a half-court prayer that hit nothing but air.
Rashard Lewis was once again invisible as he was 1-3 from the downtown and 1-9 for the series. He needs to step it up now as the series shifts to Boston and for the rest of the series. Otherwise, he will never hear the end of it until next season.
The refs in this game were inconsistent on both sides. I felt that there were two situations that really stuck out. One of them, was when Rondo slipped and it was called a travel. Yet, he did the exact same thing earlier in the game and it was never called. The last one was when Jameer Nelson fouled Paul Pierce when Nelson had all ball on Paul Pierce's shot. Pierce went to the line when he should not have gone in the first place.
Now, if u watched Game 1, the Magic made a run in the fourth and it was no different in this game. They clawed their back and took a one point lead. Orlando had Boston on the ropes. They had Kendrick Perkins foul out and Rasheed Wallace on the bench with five fouls. In fact, 33% of the Celtic team that played were in foul trouble. Rajon Rondo and the Celtics were being too cute with their fundamental passes that were becoming turnovers after initially leading to layups and dunks earlier. Everything seemed to favor Orlando but they lost. How do they lose with all that momentum at home?
This game was uneven as was the officiating that I cannot help but comprehend how this was unfolding. In fact, I am at a loss for words. Yet, I know one thing: The Celtics made the big plays when they had to while the Magic did not. The Celtics championship poise was on display along with the Magic playing like chumps.
History is against the Magic as they are 0-5 All Time in a Best of 7 series when they are down 0-2 in a series. Yet, for the Magic they have broken a streak with impossible odds just last year. Just ask Boston who was 32-0 when leading 3-2 in a series. Anyway, here are some players and moments that deserve recognition:
Play of the Game: Kevin Garnett
The Celtics were down by 1 point and the Magic had clawed their back from an 11 point deficit heading into the Fourth Quarter. Garnett gets the ball and as the shot clock winds down, knocks a fall away jumper that was pretty much gave the Celtics the lead for good. He had 10 points and 9 rebounds but his last bucket turned out to be the biggest of the game.
Player of the Game: Rajon Rondo
Rondo controlled the game from over 40 minutes. He made timely baskets as the shot clock went down that would make Isiah Thomas and Tony Parker proud. His passes were extraordinary and gutsy. He was the straw that stirred the Celtics cocktail that proved too deadly for the Orlando Magic.
Zeroes of the Game: Four Way tie: Vince Carter, JJ Redick, Rashard Lewis and the Refs.
Vince had a decent game throughout for the Magic. With 32 seconds left, VC drove to the lane and got fouled by Paul Pierce. He had a chance to cut the Celtics lead to 1. What did Vince do? He went to the line and clanged both free throws that drew echoes of Nick Anderson in the 1995 NBA Finals. Not only did he just bailed out Paul Pierce for his dumb foul and but Carter made himself a spot in the Orlando Magic playoff moments of infamy.
JJ Redick was excellent throughout but one bonehead play really sealed the Magic's fate. After KG missed a contested jumper, Redick inexplicably dribbled the ball in transition and called a timeout. Instead, of having the ball at the frontcourt, the Magic took the ball from the spot that Reddick called timeout. This led to Jameer Nelson trying to shoot a half-court prayer that hit nothing but air.
Rashard Lewis was once again invisible as he was 1-3 from the downtown and 1-9 for the series. He needs to step it up now as the series shifts to Boston and for the rest of the series. Otherwise, he will never hear the end of it until next season.
The refs in this game were inconsistent on both sides. I felt that there were two situations that really stuck out. One of them, was when Rondo slipped and it was called a travel. Yet, he did the exact same thing earlier in the game and it was never called. The last one was when Jameer Nelson fouled Paul Pierce when Nelson had all ball on Paul Pierce's shot. Pierce went to the line when he should not have gone in the first place.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Game 1: Showtime shines brighter than the Suns
It was an overcast day in the City of Angels, which kinda felt like a sense of foreboding for the Lakers. Instead of the typical sunshine that permeates Los Angeles on a late spring day, it was cloudy and drizzling. In a sense, it felt like the city was no longer in Kansas anymore but in a world resembling the Twilight Zone or a Stephen King novel.
Yet, the Lakers brought some sunshine and then some against the Phoenix Suns. They pummeled the Suns in the post and out-rebounded them 42-34. In addition, the Lakers beat the Suns at their own game: three point shooting. The Lakers were 8-17 from downtown compared to 5-22 for the Phoenix Suns. Despite 7 days of rest, it was the Suns and not the Lakers that were caught flat-footed.
Initially, the Suns could do no wrong early in the game as they jumped out to a 7-0 lead in the 1st Quarter. Suddenly, the Lakers sprang to life as Lamar Odom led the charge early on with 7 quick points in just 3 minutes. Odom was a beast inside and outside. He scored 19 points and 19 rebounds. For two playoff series, Lamar was dormant but tonight he exploded with volcanic force on the Phoenix Suns. From there the Lakers took their cue from Odom.
Ron Artest, who had been an offensive liability throughout the postseason found his shooting touch with 14 points. He was very judicious for the most part on what shots to take, which was largely invisible in the previous two rounds. In addition, he pestered the passing lanes of Phoenix leading to fast breaks in segments of the game.
Pau Gasol was deadly as he scored 21 points on 10-13 shooting. The Lakers got him the ball early and it was almost an automatic two points. In fact, he scored on an off-balance jumper despite being double-teamed in the post. His passing was breathtaking as he made a Showtime-esque pass to Kobe in the Third Quarter that led to a three point play.
Kobe Bryant put another classic game as he scored 40 points and exploded for 22 points in the third quarter. He was masterful managing the game by getting the ball to Gasol early in the game. Then, he just ripped and shredded the Suns hearts' in front of their eyes in the third quarter. His performance was breathtaking but can he continue to do so in a 7 game series?
As for the Suns, there were few bright spots but the defense was absolutely shredded by the hot shooting Lakers. They made some dumb turnovers such as Channing Frye stepped out of bounds and when the Suns had a chance to cut the Laker lead to 6 or 7 points late in the third quarter.
Goran Dragic was excellent in the 2nd Quarter as he abused Jordan Farmar and moved to the basket with craftiness that can make Steve Nash smile as he laid on his back on the Suns' bench. Unfortunately, he got half of his points in garbage time. Barbosa was spry in the 2nd Quarter as he slyly went around four Lakers for a three point play. Yet like Dragic, half of his points came with the game well in hand. The Suns bench, which was one of their strengths played to a standstill with the Laker bench thanks to Lamar Odom playing out of his mind.
Amare Stoudamire showed great touch with his jumper and nailed them with Karl Malone like efficiency. Yet, his scoring was canceled out by Gasol and like Malone his stats were mostly all sizzle. Nash had a double-double in 28 minutes with 13 points and 13 assists. However, his movements were watched and monitored at all times by the Laker D. Jason Richardson had 15 points in the game. Yet, I wonder why the Suns did not give Richardson the ball when he had the hot hand late in the third quarter. Robin Lopez played sparingly but he had his moments especially with the pick and roll with Nash for an easy dunk and forcing Gasol to a jump ball. Yet, he scored his points with the game already decided.
Despite losing by 21, the Suns have nowhere to go but up. It was a demoralizing loss but they have 48 hours to adjust. They must play fast and get Richardson involved. In addition, they have to deny the ball in the post when the Lakers get into their offensive motion. The Phoenix frontline needs to stand tall and rebound with reckless abandon. If not, the Suns' chances for victory will disappear like a mirage in the desert.
Yet, the Lakers brought some sunshine and then some against the Phoenix Suns. They pummeled the Suns in the post and out-rebounded them 42-34. In addition, the Lakers beat the Suns at their own game: three point shooting. The Lakers were 8-17 from downtown compared to 5-22 for the Phoenix Suns. Despite 7 days of rest, it was the Suns and not the Lakers that were caught flat-footed.
Initially, the Suns could do no wrong early in the game as they jumped out to a 7-0 lead in the 1st Quarter. Suddenly, the Lakers sprang to life as Lamar Odom led the charge early on with 7 quick points in just 3 minutes. Odom was a beast inside and outside. He scored 19 points and 19 rebounds. For two playoff series, Lamar was dormant but tonight he exploded with volcanic force on the Phoenix Suns. From there the Lakers took their cue from Odom.
Ron Artest, who had been an offensive liability throughout the postseason found his shooting touch with 14 points. He was very judicious for the most part on what shots to take, which was largely invisible in the previous two rounds. In addition, he pestered the passing lanes of Phoenix leading to fast breaks in segments of the game.
Pau Gasol was deadly as he scored 21 points on 10-13 shooting. The Lakers got him the ball early and it was almost an automatic two points. In fact, he scored on an off-balance jumper despite being double-teamed in the post. His passing was breathtaking as he made a Showtime-esque pass to Kobe in the Third Quarter that led to a three point play.
Kobe Bryant put another classic game as he scored 40 points and exploded for 22 points in the third quarter. He was masterful managing the game by getting the ball to Gasol early in the game. Then, he just ripped and shredded the Suns hearts' in front of their eyes in the third quarter. His performance was breathtaking but can he continue to do so in a 7 game series?
As for the Suns, there were few bright spots but the defense was absolutely shredded by the hot shooting Lakers. They made some dumb turnovers such as Channing Frye stepped out of bounds and when the Suns had a chance to cut the Laker lead to 6 or 7 points late in the third quarter.
Goran Dragic was excellent in the 2nd Quarter as he abused Jordan Farmar and moved to the basket with craftiness that can make Steve Nash smile as he laid on his back on the Suns' bench. Unfortunately, he got half of his points in garbage time. Barbosa was spry in the 2nd Quarter as he slyly went around four Lakers for a three point play. Yet like Dragic, half of his points came with the game well in hand. The Suns bench, which was one of their strengths played to a standstill with the Laker bench thanks to Lamar Odom playing out of his mind.
Amare Stoudamire showed great touch with his jumper and nailed them with Karl Malone like efficiency. Yet, his scoring was canceled out by Gasol and like Malone his stats were mostly all sizzle. Nash had a double-double in 28 minutes with 13 points and 13 assists. However, his movements were watched and monitored at all times by the Laker D. Jason Richardson had 15 points in the game. Yet, I wonder why the Suns did not give Richardson the ball when he had the hot hand late in the third quarter. Robin Lopez played sparingly but he had his moments especially with the pick and roll with Nash for an easy dunk and forcing Gasol to a jump ball. Yet, he scored his points with the game already decided.
Despite losing by 21, the Suns have nowhere to go but up. It was a demoralizing loss but they have 48 hours to adjust. They must play fast and get Richardson involved. In addition, they have to deny the ball in the post when the Lakers get into their offensive motion. The Phoenix frontline needs to stand tall and rebound with reckless abandon. If not, the Suns' chances for victory will disappear like a mirage in the desert.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The Boston sports scene: Highs and Lows of the last 24 hours
Just 24 hours ago, the city of Boston reveled in victory as their Celtics defeated the hapless Cavaliers at the TD Garden. They were loud and proud which was something that was not seen for most of the season. In fact, they stuck it to the self-loathing Cleveland Cavalier fans by chanting "New York Knicks! New York Knicks!", as soon-to-be free agent Lebron James was attempting free throws.
After a night of partying, the scene then focused on a hockey game as the Boston Bruins took on the Philadelphia Flyers at the TD Garden. Believe it or not, the Bruins were up 3-0 in the series and were ready to sweep them. Yet, in typical Bruins fashion they lost in overtime on the same night Lebron put what might be one of the greatest basketball performances in a Cavalier uniform.
Over the next few days, the Flyers steamrolled the Bruins 6-1 over the last two games to tie the series up at three apiece. For the Bruin fans, there was a feeling of "here we go again" as this team over the past few years has literally pooped in the bed. Just last year, the Bruins lost in overtime against the Carolina Hurricanes on their home ice. As for Flyers fans, they were hoping to do something that had never been done in 35 years - to come back from a 3-0 deficit.
In the first period, the Bruins played like their former dominant selves as they jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead in the first period. It made you think that the Bruins had gotten their wake up call and were ready to administer their own version of the Boston Massacre. Unfortunately, it would not last as the Flyers came back with a vengeance by scoring three unanswered goals as well as two goals within 6 minutes of each other.
Suddenly, the once boisterous Bruins crowd was as tight as the Cavalier fans were in Game 5 of the NBA playoffs. Bruins fans were suddenly thinking back to the painful memories of yesteryear of their team coming up short time after time. The Bruins knew it and the Flyers were ready to go for the kill.
In the third period, Simon Gagne of the Philadephia Flyers scored the game-winner at 12:43 of the third period. That goal put the cherry on top of one of the biggest collapses in NHL history. The Boston fans were shell shocked as just 24 hours before they were partying at a Celtics victory. Now, they were left to pick up the pieces of another memorable moment of infamous proportions. Instead, of advancing to face their long time nemesis Montreal Canadians they will now face another summer of what could have been.
As for the Philadelphia Flyers, they became the third team to come back from a 3-0 deficit where only two teams (1942 Toronto Maple Leafs and the 1975 New York Islanders) have come back from such a deficit. It's amazing how sports fortunes can turn in the blink of an eye. I guess the karmic forces in the sporting world did not look too kindly upon the New York chants for Lebron James. Funny how the Boston sport fans got left with a situation of Faustian proportions.
After a night of partying, the scene then focused on a hockey game as the Boston Bruins took on the Philadelphia Flyers at the TD Garden. Believe it or not, the Bruins were up 3-0 in the series and were ready to sweep them. Yet, in typical Bruins fashion they lost in overtime on the same night Lebron put what might be one of the greatest basketball performances in a Cavalier uniform.
Over the next few days, the Flyers steamrolled the Bruins 6-1 over the last two games to tie the series up at three apiece. For the Bruin fans, there was a feeling of "here we go again" as this team over the past few years has literally pooped in the bed. Just last year, the Bruins lost in overtime against the Carolina Hurricanes on their home ice. As for Flyers fans, they were hoping to do something that had never been done in 35 years - to come back from a 3-0 deficit.
In the first period, the Bruins played like their former dominant selves as they jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead in the first period. It made you think that the Bruins had gotten their wake up call and were ready to administer their own version of the Boston Massacre. Unfortunately, it would not last as the Flyers came back with a vengeance by scoring three unanswered goals as well as two goals within 6 minutes of each other.
Suddenly, the once boisterous Bruins crowd was as tight as the Cavalier fans were in Game 5 of the NBA playoffs. Bruins fans were suddenly thinking back to the painful memories of yesteryear of their team coming up short time after time. The Bruins knew it and the Flyers were ready to go for the kill.
In the third period, Simon Gagne of the Philadephia Flyers scored the game-winner at 12:43 of the third period. That goal put the cherry on top of one of the biggest collapses in NHL history. The Boston fans were shell shocked as just 24 hours before they were partying at a Celtics victory. Now, they were left to pick up the pieces of another memorable moment of infamous proportions. Instead, of advancing to face their long time nemesis Montreal Canadians they will now face another summer of what could have been.
As for the Philadelphia Flyers, they became the third team to come back from a 3-0 deficit where only two teams (1942 Toronto Maple Leafs and the 1975 New York Islanders) have come back from such a deficit. It's amazing how sports fortunes can turn in the blink of an eye. I guess the karmic forces in the sporting world did not look too kindly upon the New York chants for Lebron James. Funny how the Boston sport fans got left with a situation of Faustian proportions.
Game 1: Celtics Pride rules the Magic Kingdom
For six games, the Celtics fought and clawed their way to victory against the supposedly superior Cleveland Cavaliers. They made King James and the Cavs look like paper champions rather than a team ready to rule the NBA throne. Yet, the question was if the seasoned Celtics had enough to beat the Orlando Magic juggernaut.
Tonight, the Celtics answered that question for one game by dominating and intimidating the Magic. They shut down Howard and forced the entire Magic team to try and beat them. Unfortunately, the Magic didn't pull it off. Yet, they came close with a valiant rally in the 4th Quarter despite the fact that the game was seemingly well in hand.
Dwight Howard AKA Superman was rendered powerless by the Celtics big men as they kept him out of his comfort zone. He scored a double double but it felt rather pedestrian as he committed seven turnovers. His free throw shooting was his kryptonite and it was felt by the entire Orlando team in the third quarter. The Celtics frustrated him and it showed as even Rasheed Wallace got under Dwight's skin and they were both assessed a double technical. His defense was subpar as he let Glen Davis get by with two big lay-ins in the final quarter. In fact, I wonder if we saw Clark Kent rather than Superman for most of the entire game?
The Magic had a big game from Vince Carter who scored 23 points and Jameer Nelson who chipped in 20 points as well as a clutch tip-in the in final minute. JJ Reddick played extremely well as he helped lead the final push for the Magic in the final quarter. He made smart passes and timely baskets to keep the Celtics honest whenever they covered Howard with a saran-wrap defense. Marcin Gortat played well in limited minutes and it was no coincidence that the Magic offense ran smoothly with him as they got the Celtic lead down to nine in the second quarter. Coincidentally, it was when Howard sat on the bench with 2 fouls.
Unfortunately for the Magic, Rashard Lewis did not come to play as he was M.I.A for most of the game and missed a big 3 that would have brought the Magic to within 2 in the final minute. He was 0-6 from downtown. The entire Magic team was 5-22 from a three point distance, which was another reason for their loss on Sunday.
As for the Celtics, the Big 4 came to play yet again. Rondo was his brilliant self as he weaved through the Magic defense for assist after assist. Ray Allen came to play as he punished the Magic for leaving him open by scoring 25 points. He was calm and collected as he calmly converted two free throws in the final moments. Allen was spry as he outran the Magic by scoring on lay-ins through cuts. Paul Pierce was his usual self, as he got to the line and knocked down big free throws in the final minute of what was once an insurmountable lead. He scored 22 points and looked seemingly refreshed.
The Celtic supporting cast of Tony Allen, Kendrick Perkins, Glen Davis and Rasheed Wallace made huge contributions as well as their timely baskets. Tony Allen disrupted the passing lanes of the Orlando Magic for easy transition baskets. The Kendrick Perkins, Rasheed Wallace and Glen Davis tag team disrupted Dwight Howard's offensive flow. Kendrick Perkins set the tone by making Howard work for his points early on and relished in doing the dirty deed. Rasheed made his open looks and scored 13 points. Glen Davis did his part and made Howard pay for dozing off for just a minute on defense.
Now, the Magic must make the necessary adjustments for Game 2. They must find a way to get Howard involved and convert their three point shots. For the Magic, the real post-season begins and we shall see if this team can respond to their first loss of the post-season or if the Celtics will make them disappear till next season.
Tonight, the Celtics answered that question for one game by dominating and intimidating the Magic. They shut down Howard and forced the entire Magic team to try and beat them. Unfortunately, the Magic didn't pull it off. Yet, they came close with a valiant rally in the 4th Quarter despite the fact that the game was seemingly well in hand.
Dwight Howard AKA Superman was rendered powerless by the Celtics big men as they kept him out of his comfort zone. He scored a double double but it felt rather pedestrian as he committed seven turnovers. His free throw shooting was his kryptonite and it was felt by the entire Orlando team in the third quarter. The Celtics frustrated him and it showed as even Rasheed Wallace got under Dwight's skin and they were both assessed a double technical. His defense was subpar as he let Glen Davis get by with two big lay-ins in the final quarter. In fact, I wonder if we saw Clark Kent rather than Superman for most of the entire game?
The Magic had a big game from Vince Carter who scored 23 points and Jameer Nelson who chipped in 20 points as well as a clutch tip-in the in final minute. JJ Reddick played extremely well as he helped lead the final push for the Magic in the final quarter. He made smart passes and timely baskets to keep the Celtics honest whenever they covered Howard with a saran-wrap defense. Marcin Gortat played well in limited minutes and it was no coincidence that the Magic offense ran smoothly with him as they got the Celtic lead down to nine in the second quarter. Coincidentally, it was when Howard sat on the bench with 2 fouls.
Unfortunately for the Magic, Rashard Lewis did not come to play as he was M.I.A for most of the game and missed a big 3 that would have brought the Magic to within 2 in the final minute. He was 0-6 from downtown. The entire Magic team was 5-22 from a three point distance, which was another reason for their loss on Sunday.
As for the Celtics, the Big 4 came to play yet again. Rondo was his brilliant self as he weaved through the Magic defense for assist after assist. Ray Allen came to play as he punished the Magic for leaving him open by scoring 25 points. He was calm and collected as he calmly converted two free throws in the final moments. Allen was spry as he outran the Magic by scoring on lay-ins through cuts. Paul Pierce was his usual self, as he got to the line and knocked down big free throws in the final minute of what was once an insurmountable lead. He scored 22 points and looked seemingly refreshed.
The Celtic supporting cast of Tony Allen, Kendrick Perkins, Glen Davis and Rasheed Wallace made huge contributions as well as their timely baskets. Tony Allen disrupted the passing lanes of the Orlando Magic for easy transition baskets. The Kendrick Perkins, Rasheed Wallace and Glen Davis tag team disrupted Dwight Howard's offensive flow. Kendrick Perkins set the tone by making Howard work for his points early on and relished in doing the dirty deed. Rasheed made his open looks and scored 13 points. Glen Davis did his part and made Howard pay for dozing off for just a minute on defense.
Now, the Magic must make the necessary adjustments for Game 2. They must find a way to get Howard involved and convert their three point shots. For the Magic, the real post-season begins and we shall see if this team can respond to their first loss of the post-season or if the Celtics will make them disappear till next season.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Game 6: The Summer of Uncertainty Begins
After Game 5, the question was how the Cavaliers and their fearless leader, Lebron James, would respond in the boisterous environment that is the TD Garden. Every pundit and writer talked about how the Cavaliers were done. Tonight, they were vindicated as the Cavaliers not only lost but quit in the final minutes of the pivotal Game 6.
Lebron had an uneven game despite having a triple double. Yet, he forced 9 turnovers and looked timid as the game wore on. He showed brief flashes of Classic Lebron but they were few and far between. Lebron appeared timid and picked his spots to attack. I have never seen Lebron play like this and yet I have to wonder how many games will it take to harden Lebron into a crunch time killer and multiple NBA Champion. I thought the losses to Orlando last year as well the Celtics series the year before that would do it. Now, I am not so sure. I guess despite his prowess, he may never be Michael Jordan.
Yet, he can learn from another great player who like him played terribly in a pivotal game and was labeled a choker all summer. The very next season he came back and tamed the demons of the year before as well as many others. That player was Magic Johnson who in 1984 forced unnecessary turnovers in a pivotal Game 7 against the Celtics. Yet, he redeemed himself the very next season and made the most famous shot just two years later.
Mo Williams had a good half but he along with the Cavaliers were busy baking a baker's dozen of turnover, which the Celtics eagerly chowed down for easy baskets and back breaking three pointers. The Cavaliers missed many free throws, which were most notably by Shaq, Lebron and Mo Williams. Anderson Varajao came to play early by taking charges but was never heard from after the 1st half.
The Cavalier supporting cast was unreliable as Antawn Jamison proved how much of a bust he was in this series. KG had his way on Jamison in the post and scored any day or night of his choosing. Jamison could never make the big 3 which could have breathed life into the Cavaliers but instead drove home another nail in the coffin of the Cavalier season. To add insult to injury, his team did not even foul in the final minute as they resigned themselves to a summer of uncertainty and disappointment.
As for the Rejuvenated Celtics, the Big 4 came to play as KG, Allen, Rondo and timely baskets by Paul Pierce in the third quarter nailed the coffin in what could be Lebron James' final game for Cleveland. Rajon Rondo was brilliant as usual as he slipped through Cavalier frontline as if they were huge red pylons. Kevin Garnett had a big game and had 22 points which is the first time since the 2008 Finals that he had more than 20 points in a game.
The Celtics got timely bench play as Tony Allen played solid defense as well as a highlight dunk that would make Michael Jordan proud before the half. Rasheed Wallace came up with timely three pointers and played like the player that the Celtics envisioned last summer. Together, they outscored the Cavaliers bench 23-13. Credit Doc Rivers and Tom Thibodeau for their suffocating defense on King James and forcing his teammates to win the game. Unfortunately, they fell under pressure and spotlight of the NBA Playoffs.
Now, we will witness the biggest Summer in NBA History as Lebron will be highly sought after along with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. He is currently without a ring but that will not stop many teams to try and pry him away from Cleveland. From July 1, start spreading the news as Lebron might be heading to a city with a treasure chest of cap space near you.
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