Due to the fact that I just got back from a Bulls game (and yes we won, but I'll get to that in my next post) and have a ton to do, this recap will be short and sweet.
The first of two games yesterday were the Charlotte Bobcats facing the Orlando Magic, and as predicted (though in my heart, as I've said countless times before, I wish only the best to former Bulls Tyrus Thomas and Larry Hughes) the Magic swept them, 92-77. Personally I think the Magic were better last season, as many new players have been added to the roster, changing up rotations as well as the overall dynamic of the team, but it can't be denied that they are still a beast of a team, and are ready to once again show the league what they are made of in the Playoffs. Yes Stephen Jackson did his thing with 27 points, but it was no match for the points and rebounds of the starting five for the Magic. I hate to say this but at this point I'm not sure that the Bobcats will walk away with even one win.
The other Wednesday night game was the San Antonio Spurs taking on the Dallas Mavs, and having gone for the Spurs, I was quite pleased when they won, 102-88. In my opinion, the star of the game was Tim Duncan, who I feel is pretty underrated. Though his game is a quiet one, he is super talented, and can usually get any shot (at least in the paint) he wants, as he walked away with 25 points last night (as well as 17 rebounds). Manu also went to work and ended up with 23, the Spurs refusing to yet again lose to the Mavs.
I went 2-2 last night and I'm damn proud of it. But theres still a long way to go...
I finally have a chance to write responses to your posts:
ReplyDeleteFirst - I think it is commendable that you do a great job writing unbiased blog posts - as tough as that may be for such a passionate bulls fan like yourself. Props.
Second,
To state where I am coming from ("sixers" fan, really just a hardcore AI fan), I would very much like to see a Lakers-Cavs final this year. Just the story that would be available to tell --Shaq/Kobe both going for their 5th ring, but on different teams...Lebron going for his 1st ring...if he wins it, he stays in Cleveland...if not bye-bye.
With that said, I think the best matchups to look for in the East will be Cavs-Magic in the ECFs....in the West, its really difficult to tell, as usual, because of the depth of the West.
I'd like to say Lakers-Mavs in the WCF, but my heart is pulling for Phoenix, just because of they've exceeded so many expectations.
As far as the 1st round goes
Lakers, Phoenix, Dallas will pull thru. I'm really really unsure who to go for with Denver/jazz. Game 3 will be critical, for sure.
in the east,
(you know my Celtic hate...) So i'm hoping Miami comes back BIG, Atlanta, Orlando, and (sorry), Cleveland will go thru...
I feel that this year's overall playoff excitement is lacking. Maybe just first round boredom...how do you feel about it? Maybe it's just me.
Keep writing though!
Raj / @ClearHeatVision