Official NBA Discussion Thread

[Brando @$$ Fat]

Originally Posted by Gordon

Any takers on the theory that Amare' did that purposefully so that he would have an excuse after they're inevitably kicked to the curb?

No. There are better things they can blame this series on. Everyone saw this as a bad style matchup for them coming in. (The Heat were the beginning of the end of Linsanity during the regular season, when LeBron lit them up). Losing Shumpert doesn't help, either.

I'm more interested in the theory that Amar'e was trying to punch Carmelo and missed. Highly doubtful, but amusing.

[AceD]

Originally Posted by Brando @$$ Fat

I'm more interested in the theory that Amar'e was trying to punch Carmelo and missed. Highly doubtful, but amusing.

On the bright side, this is the first time in his career that Amar'e has attacked the glass.

[Gordon]

Originally Posted by AceD

On the bright side, this is the first time in his career that Amar'e has attacked the glass.

[The_alpz]

Am I the only hoping for a Lakers and Heat finals? Having Kobe and LeBron meet would make for one of the most exciting finals in the history of the league.

[jaw2929]

Looks like Dallas won't be repeating! LoL! I figured they'd pull out a W last night, then proceed to be eliminated in Game 6 but looks like I was wrong on that assumption. First defending NBA Champion to be swept since the 1995/96 Houston Rockets. Pretty disappointing, if I were a big Mavericks fan I would be pissed!

The Clippers dodged a HUGE fucking bullet.... Rudy Gay was KILLING them in the last 2 minutes there, burying 3's to catch the Grizz up.... They're lucky he missed the buzzer beater!

San Antonio's gonna win their series *yawn*. The Lakers will end up winning theirs vs. Denver as well (even though the Nuggets won the last game). I also wouldn't be surprised to see Philly advance to the next round past Chicago in an upset. Oh and I really enjoyed the ending of the Indiana/Orlando game too. The Pacers should win their series without much problem, moving forward.

[Bourne101]

Originally Posted by jaw2929

First defending NBA Champion to be swept since the 1995/96 Houston Rockets.!

Wasn't it Miami back in 2007?

[Gordon]

Basically the East is going to be a big yawn.

The West is going to be compelling as hell, though. Either Spurs/Grizzlies rematch from last year or Spurs/Clips, and I just find LobCity to be intriguing.

On the other side it's going to be Lakers/Thunder.

So basically every matchup here on out in the West will be interesting, and then we'll get a fantastic final with the Heat. If you start considering the contenders in the West I think every one of them would have a great storyline going up against the Heat. Grizzlies = Small Market, Spurs/Lakers = Old Guard, Thunder/Lob City = Fresh Blood.

[jaw2929]

Originally Posted by Bourne101

Wasn't it Miami back in 2007?

Could've been.... ESPN indicated the '96 Houston team though I think.... Or was it TNT? Anyway, wouldn't surprise me if it was Miami from 5 years ago.

And Gordon, I love how you just instantly assume that Miami's going to the Finals. You can't count Boston out, they've had the Heat's number all regular season long.... If they can translate that type of play into these Playoffs, then Boston will be making another Finals appearance this year.

[Darth Kenshin]

Originally Posted by Bourne101

Wasn't it Miami back in 2007?

Yes it was. Bulls swept them.

Originally Posted by jaw2929

You can't count Boston out, they've had the Heat's number all regular season long.... If they can translate that type of play into these Playoffs, then Boston will be making another Finals appearance this year.

It was the same story last year, too, and come playoff time, Miami ascended beyond anything Boston could match. Regular season last year, Miami lost 3 of 4 to Boston. Then they handled them pretty easily in the playoffs.

I expect something similar this year. It's a 5 game series, I feel. Hope I'm wrong, though.

[Gordon]

Originally Posted by jaw2929

And Gordon, I love how you just instantly assume that Miami's going to the Finals. You can't count Boston out, they've had the Heat's number all regular season long.... If they can translate that type of play into these Playoffs, then Boston will be making another Finals appearance this year.

I think that all of you guys referencing the regular season as some how causally predictive of this year's playoffs, especially as it relates to the Heat, are fucking nutty.

[AceD]

Originally Posted by Gordon

I think that all of you guys referencing the regular season as some how causally predictive of this year's playoffs, especially as it relates to the Heat, are fucking nutty.

Obviously the regular season means little in terms of the best teams, but perceptive fans can gather info from the regular season. The win-loss records don't indicate much in many cases, but matchups and the like can be observed.

Obviously the Heat's whole season revolves around winning a ring or not...anything less is (and should be) considered a failure for them.

Originally Posted by Darth Kenshin

It was the same story last year, too, and come playoff time, Miami ascended beyond anything Boston could match. Regular season last year, Miami lost 3 of 4 to Boston. Then they handled them pretty easily in the playoffs.

I expect something similar this year. It's a 5 game series, I feel. Hope I'm wrong, though.

I could certainly see it only going 5, but KG was not as healthy last year as he is now, and ideally Rondo stays healthy as well. Don't get me wrong: those things did not lose the series for Boston, but they're relevant to how this series might go this year. You can make a pretty good case that Boston improved more than Miami did from last year to this year, and as long as Miami continues to stupidly play Battier big minutes, I have faith. However, I have more faith because of the way Miami drew up their last play today...Wade going one-on-one and Bron standing in the corner, from which he didn't move the whole play.

I've been saying since the start of this season: it's very, very possible that Miami wins all their series, including the Finals, in 5 games or so and wins every game by double digits. That's what they should do. But if a big game gets close at the end, I have faith that a few teams can beat them.

[jaw2929]

I agree with you AceD.... Miami's not this fucking fantastic team everyone seems to think they are, otherwise they would've won the Championship last year. They're not any better or worse now, then they were then. They're the same team. If Dallas can beat them last year, then a San Antonio, OKC, Lakers and even Boston can beat them this year.

So long as LeBitch & Co. don't win the Championship, I'll even settle for a god damned Spurs championship. And that's saying something, as I loathe both teams!

[Gordon]

Originally Posted by jaw2929

I agree with you AceD.... Miami's not this fucking fantastic team everyone seems to think they are, otherwise they would've won the Championship last year. They're not any better or worse now, then they were then. They're the same team. If Dallas can beat them last year, then a San Antonio, OKC, Lakers and even Boston can beat them this year.

So long as LeBitch & Co. don't win the Championship, I'll even settle for a god damned Spurs championship. And that's saying something, as I loathe both teams!

So you're saying Boston has improved significantly from last year?

[AceD]

Originally Posted by Gordon

So you're saying Boston has improved significantly from last year?

In terms of when they played Miami in the playoffs, I think they're unquestionably better than last year.

First, KG is healthy. That's enormous. Also Rondo is playing at full strength. Obviously both of those things could change, but that's one of the main ways in which they're better right now.

Secondly, depth at the 2 and two-way production in the non-KG forward/center spot. Bass hasn't scored a ton in this ATL series, but he makes them significantly better than when it was Big Baby.

Conversely, Miami has not gotten better. Wade and Bron still don't know how to play together in a tight game. They have very little production outside of the Big 2 & 1/2 and Bosh couldn't even dominate a one-legged KG last year.

To be clear, I'm not saying Miami won't win. I believe they should win, in fact. But I'm not confident that they'll play smart when they need to, and Boston is the type of team that will take advantage if that happens.

[Brando @$$ Fat]

I think we're one game away from a player's head falling completely off in the middle of a game. The injuries are just nuts this year.

[AceD]

Originally Posted by jaw2929

Looks like Dallas won't be repeating! LoL! I figured they'd pull out a W last night, then proceed to be eliminated in Game 6 but looks like I was wrong on that assumption. First defending NBA Champion to be swept since the 1995/96 Houston Rockets. Pretty disappointing, if I were a big Mavericks fan I would be pissed!

Mavs fans should be pissed, but not for the playoffs. They should be pissed for not even trying to sign Chandler (who absolutely was the difference in all their series wins last year) simply because they want to get...Deron Williams? Who not only is not a guarantee to come, but also isn't making his team in Jersey better. Seemed a pretty dumb move and I think that's what Mavs fans should be more upset about. The Thunder were built to beat a team like this year's Mavs.

[jaw2929]

Originally Posted by AceD

In terms of when they played Miami in the playoffs, I think they're unquestionably better than last year.

First, KG is healthy. That's enormous. Also Rondo is playing at full strength. Obviously both of those things could change, but that's one of the main ways in which they're better right now.

Secondly, depth at the 2 and two-way production in the non-KG forward/center spot. Bass hasn't scored a ton in this ATL series, but he makes them significantly better than when it was Big Baby.

Conversely, Miami has not gotten better. Wade and Bron still don't know how to play together in a tight game. They have very little production outside of the Big 2 & 1/2 and Bosh couldn't even dominate a one-legged KG last year.

To be clear, I'm not saying Miami won't win. I believe they should win, in fact. But I'm not confident that they'll play smart when they need to, and Boston is the type of team that will take advantage if that happens.

I honestly could NOT have worded this any better. I agree 110%. Thanks for answering Gordon's question far better than I could have.

[adamjohnson]

Originally Posted by AceD

Mavs fans should be pissed, but not for the playoffs. They should be pissed for not even trying to sign Chandler (who absolutely was the difference in all their series wins last year) simply because they want to get...Deron Williams? Who not only is not a guarantee to come, but also isn't making his team in Jersey better. Seemed a pretty dumb move and I think that's what Mavs fans should be more upset about. The Thunder were built to beat a team like this year's Mavs.

I was pissed enough I didnt watch a single game this season.

[jaw2929]

Can't believe the Celtics let Game 5 get away from them.... Unbelievably disappointing, especially when Rondo stole the ball, ran down the court & proceeded to do: Absolutely nothing.

They'll dispatch Atlanta at home in Game 6. Indiana, San Antonio & OKC advance. Chicago dodges a HUGE bullet and avoids an upset/elimination. I still think Philly will advance though. Then they'll subsequently go on to lose to Boston.

New York got a win against Miami which was actually quite surprising. I believe Miami will win Game 6 and the Clippers should eliminate the Grizzlies tonight too. Oh and Denver.... LA should win that series, and I was surprised to see that they didn't last night.

[Bourne101]

Originally Posted by jaw2929

Oh and Denver.... LA should win that series, and I was surprised to see that they didn't last night.

It's never good to lose, but it's semi-beneficial in this case. If they advance, they will have Metta for the entire OKC series, which is essential if they wish to make it a decent series.

[jaw2929]

Originally Posted by Bourne101

It's never good to lose, but it's semi-beneficial in this case. If they advance, they will have Metta for the entire OKC series, which is essential if they wish to make it a decent series.

Good point. Until Artest pulls some other random horse-shit act, at least.

[ThunderStorm]

damn the Lakers just got fucked on the game Saturday will be interesting. Bynum needs to grow up and Gasol needs to show up for the Lakers to have a chance.

[Brando @$$ Fat]

Originally Posted by ThunderStorm

damn the Lakers just got fucked on the game Saturday will be interesting. Bynum needs to grow up and Gasol needs to show up for the Lakers to have a chance.

Yeah, that was a bad performance by LA and a GREAT performance by Denver. Ty Lawson played like the future superstar that he is. It must be that Tar Heel blood.

Even though I can't stand the Celtics, I have to give props to KG. That was as brilliant a performance as he's ever put on. When he made that shot with 29 seconds left you knew it was over for the Hawks. Mentally, they just aren't on the same level.

[AspectRatio1986]

This was pretty good:

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/857...eatured_videos

[jaw2929]

Originally Posted by Brando @$$ Fat

Yeah, that was a bad performance by LA and a GREAT performance by Denver. Ty Lawson played like the future superstar that he is. It must be that Tar Heel blood.

Even though I can't stand the Celtics, I have to give props to KG. That was as brilliant a performance as he's ever put on. When he made that shot with 29 seconds left you knew it was over for the Hawks. Mentally, they just aren't on the same level.

Pretty much. He's not the player he once was, but he's still KG. The Celtics should've eliminated the Hawks in 5, but I'm glad they didn't let it get to 7 games to do it. C's vs. Philly? I think Boston will take that series in 6 as well. Then it'll be the inevitable Miami/Boston ECF matchup. Should be interesting....

The Grizzlies played a helluva game in LA last night. I've been wanting the Clippers to win the series, but I wouldn't be upset with a Memphis series win either. Why? Because they're a FAR tougher matchup for San Antonio than the Clippers would be. Plus, I wouldn't mind seeing an OKC/Memphis WCF either!

[Gordon]

Pulling out that game was huge for the Celtics. If they had dropped it Philly would almost be guaranteed to go at least six games.

[Darth Kenshin]

That's the way the Lakers have to play next round to win. Kobe needs to facilitate and focus on defense (only 2 4th quarter shots, as he was zoned in on slowing down Lawson, which he did beautifully). Let the bigs run the show. Great game for the Lakers.

As for the Celtics, that series is over. I don't think the Sixers can play any better than they did last night, and they still came up short. 5 games, at most. Sorry, Philly.

BTW, Rondo has as many playoff triple doubles as Oscar Robertson. Geez.

[Bourne101]

Originally Posted by Darth Kenshin

That's the way the Lakers have to play next round to win. Kobe needs to facilitate and focus on defense (only 2 4th quarter shots, as he was zoned in on slowing down Lawson, which he did beautifully). Let the bigs run the show. Great game for the Lakers.

Yeah, if they play like that, it'll be a series. Denver got hot and crawled their way back into the game, but the game never seemed to be in doubt for the Lakers. Metta also played extremely well in the second half, making some big shots and, more importantly, some really big defensive plays. He needs to do that every night if they want to make it a series against OKC. Steve Blake has also finally stepped up. And of course, Gasol and Bynum both had big games, which is essential.

[jaw2929]

Originally Posted by Darth Kenshin

Th
As for the Celtics, that series is over. I don't think the Sixers can play any better than they did last night, and they still came up short. 5 games, at most. Sorry, Philly.

BTW, Rondo has as many playoff triple doubles as Oscar Robertson. Geez.

That's fucking awesome. Rondo & KG have really helped the C's these past 2-3 games or so. Wait until Pierce starts heating up consistently and Boston's going back to the Finals. They'll wipe Philly out in 5, I agree. I think that should be all it takes.

[Frankenberry Reborn]

You guys pretty much said it all. Bynum and Gasol were unstoppable. I do feel bad for George Karl, but they should be proud of themselves for dragging it out to a Game 7 with no superstars to speak of. They'll be dangerous next year.

Congrats to the Clippers. I don't like their chances against San Antonio, but I'll be in their corner the whole way.

[jaw2929]

Originally Posted by Frankenberry Reborn

Congrats to the Clippers. I don't like their chances against San Antonio, but I'll be in their corner the whole way.

I was happy to see the Clips win their series too. The people in the stands in Memphis totally looked dejected. I feel for 'em, because the Grizz would've definitely been a much more tougher matchup for the Spurs than LA. It should be an interesting series, however.

I also see OKC winning their series over the Lakers in 6. I could be way wrong, and I'll never underestimate Kobe. But yeah, I just don't see the Lakers hangin' with the Thunder this year.

[Darth Kenshin]

Grizz fans should be dejected. Their team looked pathetic yesterday. I wonder if they ever really recovered from Game 1. Every close game, they looked pitiful.

I think the Lakers have a chance against the Thunder if the big men can carry the load offensively. Kobe can slow down Westbrook or he can drop 30, but he can't do both at his age. And no on else can check Westbrook. It's all on Bynum, Gasol, and the perimeter guys to hit some open 3's. That doesn't bode well for LA, but I'm still gonna go out on a limb and pick them for the upset.

[Bourne101]

That C's/Sixers series is the best in the playoffs so far, from what I've seen.

The Lakers look like a team who has just played a 7 game series.

[jaw2929]

Lakers losing by almost 30 points? I honestly didn't see that coming. If they're not careful, they're gonna get swept....

I was pissed at that offensive foul they called on KG at the end of the Sixers/Celtics game. Pretty fucking pissy.... Boston should've won Game 2, and only scoring 11 points total in the 3rd quarter? Inexecusable! They'd better take Game 3 tomorrow, that's all I can say!

[Darth Kenshin]

Not too shocked the Lakers got smoked. They were exhausted and really had nothing.

I won't backpeddle on my choice for them to win the series, though.

As for the Sixers, I gotta give them credit. Resilient bunch who REALLY get after it on D. Well-coached, too. They're a superstar away from being legit contenders. They have a bunch of very good players, but no one really stands out (unless Evan Turner continues to develop). Much better team than I thought they were. I still expect Boston to win out, but the Sixers are not afraid, and again (I can't stress this enough) they REALLY GET AFTER IT on D.

[jaw2929]

Great win for Indiana last night in Miami. They just may make that a good series! I'd love for them to pull off the upset, though I won't hold my breath.

Also disappointing loss for the Clippers, I just don't think they'll be able to compete consistently with the Spurs.... Have I mentioned I fucking LOATHE San Antonio?

[Gordon]

Originally Posted by jaw2929

Great win for Indiana last night in Miami. They just may make that a good series! I'd love for them to pull off the upset, though I won't hold my breath.

Also disappointing loss for the Clippers, I just don't think they'll be able to compete consistently with the Spurs.... Have I mentioned I fucking LOATHE San Antonio?

I think this Bosh injury may really sink the Heat. People focus so much on James & Wade they underestimate his importance as a big man on a small team lacking any real bench presence.

Anyway I am, and will continue, rooting for the Clippers to come out of the West, but right now the Spurs look unstoppable.

[Bourne101]

Jesus fucking Christ Lakers, way to blow a 7 point lead with 2 minutes to go. Pathetic.

[ThunderStorm]

Originally Posted by Bourne101

Jesus fucking Christ Lakers, way to blow a 7 point lead with 2 minutes to go. Pathetic.

Yes they had the game in hand thats embarassing and a blow to their chances. They couldn't close out that was terrible. In the East though the Celtics looked great the way they are playing I feel like they have a chance at the title.

[ThunderStorm]

The Heat looked awful tonight I have no idea where DWade's head was at in this game, that was terrible. The Spurs however are looking better and better if they win does anyone think they could beat either the Thunder or LAkers?