Okay so the first round is in the books and I think we can safely say that it did not go true to form. Some match-ups ended as expected while some others... well let's just say, prognosticators have seen better days. Here is the re-cap, let's see how we did.
Grizzles def. Spurs- Am I surprised? Yeah a little bit, because I expected the Spurs to find a way at the end of games to pull away from a young Memphis team with no real closer. But after watching the games, it made total sense for Memphis to tank games to play the number #1 Seed out West. The were better than and more physical than the Spurs in the middle, they had enough athleticism and length to bother the Spurs go to perimeter guys and three point shooters, and ultimately they just wanted it more. Congrats to the Grizzles…they won this series…the Spurs didn’t lose it.
Lakers def. Hornets- What this series showed is that Chris Paul still has to be mentioned as one of the top 3 PG in the league, the Lakers still have that “turn it on, turn it off mentality, and if Pau Gasol doesn’t produce the Lakers will struggle to win a third straight ring. Not surprised that it took six games, that’s just what you come t expect from the Lakers.
Mavericks def. Trailblazers- I am really shocked that Portland was not more physical with Dallas. Dallas doesn’t go to the free throw line at all, they settle for jumpers AND their best player is still soft. However, the Mavs commitment to Defense and ability to make shots late, proved why they should have been viewed as favorites and not underdogs.
Thunder def. Nuggets- The Nuggets just didn’t have enough…oh yeah and Kevin Durant is a beast. The Nuggets did show a lot of heart and looked more like a team. They may be a team to watch next year…if there is a next year.
Bulls def. Pacers- The Bulls didn’t really look like the Bulls until the close out game….and when their offense caught up to the good defense they were playing…the blew the Pacers out. This series made these teams look closer than what they really are…but one thing is for sure. If Derrick Rose doesn’t get more consistent help in round two, they will struggle mightily in the next round.
Heat def. Sixers- The Sixers showed a lot of heart as well in this series, but when the Heat Big 2 and ½ are scoring and playing stiff defense (pause) and they are getting consistent shooting from the outside, any team with inferior talent is going to lose.
Celtics def. Knicks- I actually thought the Knicks would put up more of a fight; but I guess when you lose your starting PG, your starting PF struggles with back issues and your best scorer is not built for the Dantoni offense, you probably should lose. Oh and the Celtics woke up in game 3 and never looked back.
Hawks def. Magic- This series featured the disappearing acts of all of the Orlando Magic not named Dwight Howard. Seriously, he got help in one game and his shooting teammates were no where to be found. Shout to JJ Redick who did seem to carry the 3 point load in the two victories (and would look great in a Bulls uniform). Don’t worry Dwight…this time next year (again, if there is a next year) you will be in Hollywood, as a Laker.
Round 1 is in the books and it should get more interesting moving forward. Round 2 Preview on deck.
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