2013 NBA Playoffs - Western Conference, First Round

The Western Conference as a whole is far better than the Eastern Conference. That being said, I don't expect any first round upsets in the West, as the top four are just too good. The Thunder are looking to get back to the NBA Finals, and just like last season, right there with them is the San Antonio Spurs. The Denver Nuggets are unstoppable at home, so if they can win some games on the road in the playoffs, they can make some noise. The Clippers are hoping to take a step further and get past the Second Round this season. Memphis is a dangerous team, while Golden State is probably a year or two away from being a serious playoff contender. The Lakers are without Kobe Bryant but still have a lot of talent at their disposal and are playing very good basketball right now. The Rockets will likely just be pushovers, as they don't have enough pieces yet to truly contend.


#1 Oklahoma City Thunder (60-22) vs. #8 Houston Rockets (45-37)

The Thunder traded away James Harden and seemingly got better. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook continue to be two of the best players in the game, while new acquisition Kevin Martin seemed to transition to the team seamlessly. Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins remain beasts inside, giving the Thunder one of the most fearsome inside, outside combinations in the NBA. Thabo Sefolosha isn't a flashy player like his fellow teammates, but a good glue guy to have.

The Rockets were the second highest scoring team in the NBA, with James Harden savoring the role of being the alpha male. Jeremy Lin may never recapture Linsanity but he is a solid point guard, albeit one that is still too careless with the ball. That is the Rockets biggest detriment, is sloppiness when it comes to possessions on offense. Chandler Parsons showed tremendous strides in his second season and is the Rockets number two option on offense. Even Omer Asik, a free agent whom I thought they paid way too much for, showed that with some real minutes he could be a solid big man.

This will be an entertaining series and you know Harden will be jazzed up to try to oust his former team. The Rockets have a nice collection of decent players, but they don't have anywhere near the talent that the Thunder have. Their lack of defense and penchant for turnovers will be their undoing and the reason I think the Thunder can dispose of them in five games.

Prediction: Thunder over Rockets, 4-1


#4 Los Angeles Clippers (56-26) vs. #5 Memphis (56-26)

Lob City rolled their way to their first ever division title and most wins in franchise history. The Clippers backcourt is electrifying with the scoring and passing of Chris Paul, and the never afraid to shoot Jamal Crawford. Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan give the Clips an imposing inside presence and Griffin remains a beast on the glass and on the offensive end. Caron Butler isn't what he once was but he still good for about 10 points a night. Chauncey Billups, Eric Bledsoe, and Lamar Odom give the Clippers some bench options.

The Grizzlies traded away their leading scorer in the middle of the year, and seemingly got better. They officially became Zach Randolph's team, with Marc Gasol and Mike Conley also providing major contributions. The Grizzlies are the best defensive team on basketball with Randolph, Gasol, and Tony Allen making things a nightmare for opposing offenses. Case in point would be the final game of the season, where the Utah Jazz could only muster 70 points in a must win against Memphis.

This series is a rematch from last year's first round, which memorably went 7 games. The Grizzlies can't score with the Clippers so their defense will be what keeps them in this series. The battles between Randolph and Gasol versus Griffin and Jordan will be physical and bruising. I think the Clippers advantage at the guard positions, especially offensively will be the difference. You can only stop someone like Chris Paul so much.

Prediction: Clippers over Grizzlies, 4-2


#2 San Antonio Spurs (58-24) vs. #7 Los Angeles Lakers (45-37)

It seems like for years people have been saying that the Spurs were too old to compete and each year they just go out and win 50+ games. They overcame injuries at different points in the year to Tony Parker and Manu Ginobli, while Tim Duncan played with a renewed energy. Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green, Tiago Splitter and Gary Neal have been the youthful contributors for the team, giving San Antonio a perfect mix of veterans and youth.

The Lakers season was a soap opera. The lineup they thought they would have of Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, Metta World Peace, Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard hardly ever materialized. They all went down with injuries and missed games at some point, and now Bryant is out for the playoffs. Nash is still hurting but is hoping to return for the playoffs, although who knows how much he will add. The Lakers are going to go as far as Gasol and Howard take them. It will also help if guys like Steve Blake and Jodie Meeks step up like they did in the Lakers final two regular season games without Bryant. Antawn Jamison is another guy that can provide some scoring off the bench.

For the Lakers to pull off the upset Howard will have to be the beast he was in Orlando, and the Lakers will have to continue to play the type of defense that carried them into the playoffs. The Spurs are exactly they type of matchup they wanted, as teams like the Thunder and Nuggets would just run their old veterans off the court. The Spurs have some youth but are old in key positions. However, I just can't pick the Lakers. They are 28-12 in their last 40 games, but I don't trust their defense, and I don't trust them to sweep the Spurs at home and steal a game on the road. I do think they can take the Spurs seven games, and make Gregg Popovich and company sweat.

Prediction: Spurs over Lakers, 4-3


#3 Denver Nuggets (57-25) vs. #6 Golden State Warriors (47-35)

If you are all about basketball that is offense and very little defense, then this is the series for you. Both teams averaged over 100 points per game and both gave up over 100 points per game. The injury bug has hit Denver at the wrong time. First, they lost Danilo Gallinari for the season, and then Kenneth Faried was injured. On the bright side, Faried should play in this series, although it is not yet known if he will be available for Game 1. The Nuggets are Ty Lawson's team, as he led them in scoring and assists. Wilson Chandler has stepped up in a major way since Gallinari went down. Andre Iguodala is also playing his best basketball of the season and seems to be finding his scoring touch. Andre Miller, JaVale McGee and Corey Brewer are some of the reliable substitutions that George Karl has at his disposal.

Steph Curry truly arrived this season and carried the Warriors to the playoffs. Curry set a record for most made three pointers in a season and shot an absurd 45% from three point range. David Lee finally remained healthy and combined with rookie Harrison Barnes to give the Warriors stability at the forward position. The middle has been a different story, with Andrew Bogut battling injuries, thrusting rookie Festus Ezeli into a prominent role. Jarrett Jack and Carl Landry see the most time for the Warriors out of their bench players.

I would be shocked if any game between these teams finishes with at least one team scoring under 100. This will be some fun basketball to watch and almost a throwback to the 80s. I think the biggest difference in this series will be experience. This will be new to a lot of the Warriors players and that could lead to some nerves and feelings of being overwhelmed. Many of the Nuggets have been through this and will know what to expect. The Warriors just strike me as a team of the future and not a team ready to make a run just yet.

Prediction: Nuggets over Warriors, 4-1

2012 NBA Playoffs - Western Conference Semi-Finals

It took seven games and nearly blowing 3-1 series leads but the teams from LA survived and are now ready to start the Western Conference Semi-Finals. The Lakers fought off a resilient Nuggets team, while the Clippers went to Memphis and earned their first game seven win in franchise history. Now facing the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Lakers will be underdogs in the playoffs for the first time since the 2008 Finals against the Boston Celtics. No one is going to the give the Clippers much of a chance against the Spurs, partially because of how dominant the Spurs have been this year, and also because, it's the Clippers.

#1 San Antonio Spurs vs. #5 Los Angeles Clippers

I'm not sure anyone outside of San Antonio or Utah saw the Spurs make quick work of the Jazz in the First Round. The Spurs barely had to break a sweat and will be well rested for a weary Clippers team. It also helps that Spurs have tremendous depth and can go eleven deep. The two most fun matchups to watch in this series will be the point guard battle between Tony Parker and Chris Paul, and the young stud Blake Griffin versus the old, wily veteran Tim Duncan.

The Clippers have the pieces to match the Spurs in those areas and can cancel out and maybe even have the advantage over the Spurs in those departments. However, for the Clippers to win their bench will have to play like they did in the final quarter of Game 7 against Memphis for them to have a chance. Expecting that kind of consistent offensive production out of their bench for the majority of the series probably will be too much to ask for.

A huge advantage for the Spurs will be at shooting guard where Manu Ginobli and former Tar Heel Danny Green will face Randy Foye. The Clippers definitely have missed Chauncey Billups presence since he was lost for the year due to injury and it will be even more apparent in this series. Inside DeAndre Jordan figures to do well against Boris Diaw, but Duncan can also slide over and guard Jordan if need be.

To the Clippers credit they have pretty much lived up to the expectations placed on them once David Stern handed them Chris Paul. I have been weary of the Spurs most of the season because I haven't forgotten how they dominated the regular season last year and then were pushed over by the Grizzlies. But with the ease the Spurs eliminated the Jazz, I believe this team has found the right mix of new fresh legs, to go with their longtime big three to be one of the best teams in the NBA. Also, coaching in this series will probably play a huge part as Greg Popovich will coach circles around Vinny Del Negro. I think the Clippers can at least take one at home to avoid being swept, but they aren't in the Spurs league.

Prediction: Spurs over Clippers, 4-1


#2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. #3 Los Angeles Lakers

As I mentioned above this is unfamiliar territory for the Lakers. Even when Dallas swept them last season that was quite a shock to many as the Lakers were pretty heavily favored. In this series against the Thunder I can't find anyone picking them to take this series. OKC swept the defending champion Mavericks but they were really only dominant in one of those games. The most talked about early subplot of this series will be James Harden versus Metta World Peace. World Peace returned from his suspension for elbowing Harden in Game 7 against Denver and played very well and was one of the major reasons the Lakers were able to win the game. Hopefully, World Peace doesn't do anything stupid and just plays his game because he definitely helps the Lakers cause. His main focus will have to be on guarding Kevin Durant and trying to stop one of the best players in the game from taking over the series.

With the addition of Ramon Sessions at the trade deadline the Lakers at least have a point guard that will stand a chance against Russell Westbrook. Their old point guard, Derek Fisher is now a backup for the Thunder and will try to gain some revenge on the Lakers for holding on to him for about two years too long. It will be Thabo Sefalosha and Harden's jobs to guard Kobe Bryant. Bryant will have to remain confident in his teammates, no matter their struggles as the Thunder are too good of a team for Bryant to try to do it all himself.

That is where Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum come into play. When those two play at their peak the Lakers are unstoppable. However, they almost seem to be like women who are around each other and eventually find their periods syncing up. I know that isn't a pleasant analogy but Gasol and Bynum tend to play well at the same time, like when they were monsters on the glass in Game 7 against Denver, and poor at the same time, like they did in the Game 6 blowout loss to Denver. They can't afford to take any games off. While the Lakers size could dominate the Nuggets, they won't be able to do that against Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins. The Thunder won't have to throw double teams like the Nuggets did as they have guys who can guard them face to face.

This series will take center stage in the Conference Semi-Finals and with good reason. You have tons of superstars, a budding rivalry with the drama between World Peace and Harden, and the young, upstart team trying to take out the old guard of champions. For LA to have any chance they have to steal at least one of the first two games in Oklahoma City. So tonight and Wednesday's games will be crucial. I think the Lakers time has passed though and the Thunder have grown up a lot since the bunch that lost to LA in the playoffs two years ago. It will be a very fun series but I think the Thunder will defeat the Lakers and even do it on LA's home court.

Prediction: Thunder over Lakers, 4-2

2012 NBA Playoffs - Western Conference, First Round

The Spurs finally appeared dead after being shocked in the First Round of the playoffs last season by the Memphis Grizzlies. It seemed to be a sign that after four championships, the run of the Spurs big three was finally ending. It appeared even more likely this season with a lockout shortened year, that meant little to no days off between games. Instead, the Spurs once again persevered and finished tied with the Bulls for the best record in the league. They join a wide open Western Conference playoff race, where you could conceivably make an argument for any of the eight teams to have a chance to win the Western Conference championship. The defending champion Dallas Mavericks have struggled most of this season but they still have most of the major cogs of that championship team, so anything is possible with them.

First Round

#1 San Antonio Spurs (50-16) vs. #8 Utah Jazz (36-30)

The Spurs big three led the team in scoring this season, with Tony Parker leading the way, averaging 18.3 ppg. Manu Ginobli was hurt for most of the season and only played 34 games but will be ready for the playoffs. Tim Duncan is not nearly the player he once was but still remains effective, especially on the glass where he averaged 9 rebounds per game. SG Stephen Jackson was nice pickup in a trade from the Bucks, while DeJuan Blair, Kawhi Leonard, and Matt Bonner have been the most reliable players for the Spurs, leading them in games played this season.

The Jazz enter the playoffs playing their best basketball of the season. They feature one of the best offenses in the NBA, but are not a good defensive team. C Al Jefferson carries the team and is finally back in the playoffs after a long absence. Along with PF Paul Millsap they form a formidable combo inside for the Jazz. Derrick Favors is another big inside presence the Spurs will have to deal with. The Jazz are weaker at guard, where PG Devin Harris struggled through one of his worst seasons. SG Gordon Hayward has improved his play in his second year, and has taken on a larger supporting role this year.

Some people seem to really be buying into the Spurs but I remain skeptical. They had a strong season last year and were bounced from the playoffs right away. However, I don't think this Jazz team plays good enough defense to slow down the Spurs scoring. I also think Harris is going to get eaten up by Parker and let the Spurs move on to the next round.

Prediction: Spurs over Jazz, 4-2

#4 Memphis Grizzlies (41-25) vs. #5 Los Angeles Clippers (40-26)

The Grizzlies managed to carry over the momentum they got from last year's playoffs and now will host a First Round playoff series against the Clippers. SF Rudy Gay and C Marc Gasol played and started in every game but one for Memphis. Last year's playoff star, PF Zach Randolph missed the majority of the year with injuries but is back for the playoffs. SG Tony Allen increased his scoring, while remaining one of the best defensive players in the league, his backup O.J. Mayo was the only Grizzlies player to play in all 66 games. They also have Gilbert Arenas decaying knees on the bench.

The Clippers received a ton of hype once David Stern gift wrapped them PG Chris Paul, but they were unable to win their division and nearly saw their coach, Vinny Del Negro get fired. Paul and Blake Griffin shoulder the scoring load, while SG Nick Young, whom they brought over from Washington was expected to help with that, but has struggled since joining the Clips. They get strong inside play from C DeAndre Jordan, while PF Kenyon Martin hasn't been quite what they were hoping they were getting. SF Caron Butler is a shell of his former self and had a terrible season shooting the ball.

This should be a competitive, highly entertaining series, but ultimately, I think the Grizzlies defense is far superior to the Clippers. Despite the Clippers being better offensively, the Grizzlies will disrupt the Clippers rhythm on offense and take the series in six.

Prediction: Grizzlies over Clippers, 4-2

#2 Oklahoma City Thunder (47-19) vs. #7 Dallas Mavericks (36-30)

The Oklahoma City Thunder are many people's favorite to come out of the West and also win the NBA title. They seemingly have it all, one of the best point guards in the league in Russell Westrbook, perhaps the best player in the game in Kevin Durant, and a shot blocking, defensive presence inside with Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins. It is not known yet how long they might be without James Harden, who is still recovering from a concussion due to a Metta World Peace elbow. One area that might be their weakness is their lack of depth.

The Mavericks lost some key players from their championship team, such as Tyson Chandler, DeShawn Stevenson, and Jose Juan Barea. They had the failed Lamar Odom experiment, and just never really seemed to mesh this year. Dirk Nowitzki saw his numbers take a dip this year from his career average, while Jason Terry and Shawn Marion also had disappointing seasons. The Mavericks have a strong inside presence with Brendan Haywood and Brandan Wright, so they will be able to muscle up with Ibaka and Perkins. Last season they were able to overcome the disadvantage they had at point guard with Jason Kidd going against Westbrook, and they will hope that Delonte West can provide some strong minutes off the bench.

This is not the same Mavericks team that knocked off the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals last season. The Thunder are also a year older, better, and more mature. Dallas will fight hard to defend their title but they have never played like a team capable of defending their title this season.

Prediction: Thunder over Mavericks, 4-2

#3 Los Angeles Lakers (41-25) vs. #6 Denver Nuggets (38-28)

After a slow start the Lakers ended up having a pretty nice season under first year coach Mike Brown. However, their draw against the Denver Nuggets will not be easy. If the Lakers had stuck with Derek Fisher at point guard they would have had no shot at making any noise in the playoffs. The pickup of Ramon Sessions from Cleveland was huge and gives them a point guard who can do things both offensively and defensively. The Lakers interior presence of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum is unmatched in the NBA. Bynum had a career year, playing in virtually every game he was not suspended in. Gasol has always had his toughness questioned but he has been a part of two championships, so its not like he hasn't shown he can play tough when needed. The Lakers count on Matt Barnes and Steve Blake to provide valuable minutes off the bench. They will be without Metta World Peace for at least the first six games of this series. A few weeks ago that wouldn't have meant too much but Peace had started playing his best basketball of the season.

Despite dealing with a myriad of injuries, the Nuggets were able to win 38 games and finish 10 games over .500, one of George Karl's best coaching jobs. The maturation of PG Ty Lawson continued this season and he led the Nuggets in scoring and assists. His backcourt mater SG Arron Afflalo had a career season and is part of a vicious backcourt for Denver. Danillo Galinari is finally healthy, while Al Harrington had one of the best seasons of his career. C JaVale McGee, a joke in Washington, has played well since coming to Denver and has managed to avoid being the butt of any more jokes.

The Lakers are middle of the road both offensively and defensively, while the Nuggets were the highest scoring team in the league, but one of the worst defensive teams. I think homecourt will be the difference in this series. The Lakers were one of the best home teams in the league and I think they can hold serve at home. However, they struggled on the road all season, and I think the Nuggets will win their games at home. I expect it to go seven games, with the Lakers prevailing.

Prediction: Lakers over Nuggets, 4-3

2011 NBA Playoffs - Eastern and Western Conference Semi-Finals

The First Round of the NBA Playoffs will be a hard act to live up to. While no series went seven games, the games themselves were all very competitive and provided more drama than fans are accustomed to seeing in the opening act of the NBA Playoffs. The East now comes down to the Chicago Bulls taking on the Atlanta Hawks, which is a slight surprise, and then the most anticipated series in the Conference Semi-Finals, the Celtics battling the Heat. In the West, the Memphis Grizzlies made Charles Barkley look like a genius for picking them, as they dismantled the San Antonio Spurs, and now face the upstart Oklahoma City Thunder. The other matchup sees Kobe and the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Lakers battle the Dallas Mavericks.

Eastern Conference Semi-Finals

#1 Chicago Bulls vs. #5 Atlanta Hawks

This isn't the matchup that Jameer Nelson envisioned but such a crappy player shouldn't be talking trash as it is. The Hawks proved that their regular season success against the Magic was no fluke. The Bulls got all they could handle from the Indiana Pacers but still managed to close them out in 5 games.

Hopefully that jolt from the Pacers woke the Bulls up and showed them that they will have to earn everything they achieve in the playoffs. Derrick Rose carried the Bulls in that series but struggled mightily shooting the ball. That isn't a problem as long as he can continue to get to the free throw line and hit free throws. Carlos Boozer was completely ineffective against Indiana and now is dealing with turf toe. I think the Bulls are talented enough to win without a major contribution from him against Atlanta, but against either Miami or Boston he has to step up. If he can't be effective offensively then he will need to at least slow down Al Horford. Joakim Noah will have a major advantage over Jason Collins.

The Hawks will be without former Bull and their starting point guard Kirk Hinrich. He strained his hamstring and is not expected to be able to return for the series. That is a huge loss for the Hawks who will now have to rely on either the inexperienced Jeff Teague, or allow Crawford to get more minutes at point guard. Joe Johnson could have a huge series going against the overmatched Keith Bogans,

The Bulls will be tested once again but the Hawks won't be able to slow down Rose and I think Noah could have a monster series.

Prediction: Bulls over Hawks, 4-2

#2 Miami Heat vs. #3 Boston Celtics

This series tipped off yesterday with the Heat dominating the game and defeating Boston to take an early 1-0 series lead. Dwyane Wade was unreal, scoring 38 points and hitting 14 of his 21 shots. Even more unreal were the contributions from James Jones off the bench. He hit 5 three pointers and finished with 25 points.

Game 1 was very chippy and saw Paul Pierce get ejected. That figures to be a running theme throughout the series as neither team cares much for the other. This is the series where I think the Celtics will really miss Kendrick Perkins. Going against a stiff like Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and a little accomplished player in Joel Anthony, are matchups that Perkins could have exploited. Instead, the carcass of Jermaine O'Neal will have to try to do something.

Yesterday's game did give me pause but I still think the Celtics are the better team. Team being the key word. James Jones won't be dropping 25 every game, and when it comes down to it the Heat are still 3 players and a bunch of nobodies. Even the third part of that group, Chris Bosh, is unreliable and won't be dominating the Celtics like he did the 76ers.

It will take consistent bench play for the Heat to beat Boston and I don't think the Heat have the parts to make that happen.

Prediction: Celtics over Heat, 4-3


Western Conference Semi-Finals

#5 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. #8 Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies are in an NBA Jam like "On Fire" zone right now. They basically dominated the Spurs and then shot lights out and put the Thunder on notice in Game 1 of their series. Zach Randolph is playing at an insane level right now and can't be slowed down. Marc Gasol has people actually trying to argue that the Grizzlies didn't get swindled in the Pau Gasol trade a few years ago. Tony Allen and Shane Battier are giving the Grizzlies the defensive toughness needed to go far in the playoffs.

All of that being said, the Thunder still have the best player on the court, Kevin Durant. However, Russell Westbrook really needs to step up his game. He is scoring points but is taking way too many shots to get those points and has been turning over the ball too much. Kendrick Perkins will have to wake up as well, he was virtually non-existent in Game 1.

This series will rest on whether Serge Ibaka and Perkins can slow down Gasol and Randolph. As long as the Grizzlies big men continue to play at this high of a level, the Grizz will keep shocking the world. I'm drinking the kool-aid and like the Grizzlies to move on.

Prediction: Grizzlies over Thunder, 4-3

#2 Los Angeles Lakers vs. #3 Dallas Mavericks

For the first time since 1988, the Lakers and Mavericks meet in the playoffs. Considering how each team has been a mainstay of the playoffs for about a decade, it's pretty amazing they never crossed paths. I can't stand the Mavericks loud-mouthed owner Mark Cuban and would love to see the smug look wiped off his face by LA.

The Mavs surprised me by getting past the Blazers but still choked in spectacular Maverick fashion in Game 4. I expect to see a lot of that from them in this series, and still don't think they have the mental toughness to be champions. I will say that when DeShawn Stevenson is a starter on your team, I can't take you seriously as contenders.

Its the same story as always for the Lakers. Kobe Bryant will consistently contribute and the Lakers success will come down to how Andrew Bynum, Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol and the bench play. The Lakers struggled with the Hornets because of the struggles of Gasol and Odom. The Mavericks have size with Dirk Nowitzki and Tyson Chandler, but Nowitzki is a big man in height only and rarely plays down low. Bynum and Gasol should each have big series. Also, Derek Fisher won't get tore up defensively, as he gets to face someone even older than him in Jason Kidd.

The Lakers will probably do what they do best and make things more difficult than they should be, but I have no doubt they will be moving on to the Western Conference Finals.

Prediction: Lakers over Mavericks, 4-2

2011 NBA Playoffs - Western Conference, First Round

The Western Conference saw the old guard reclaim their top spot. The San Antonio Spurs were left for dead at the end of last season. They were considered too old to compete for another championship. However, they surged their way to a 61-21 record, and earned home court advantage throughout the Western Conference playoffs. The 2-time defending champion, Los Angeles Lakers, finished second in the West, and come into the playoffs losers of five of their last seven games. Both the Spurs and Lakers have question marks about key players going into the playoffs. Manu Ginobli may miss Game 1 of their series against Memphis, while Andrew Bynum is questionable for the start of the Lakers series against the New Orleans Hornets.

First Round

#1 San Antonio Spurs (61-21) vs. #8 Memphis Grizzlies (46-36)

Unlike the Eastern Conference, their are no cake walks in the Western Conference playoffs. Memphis would have been a 5 seed in the East, but instead had to settle for an 8 seed in the West. They are searching for their first playoff win in franchise history. The good news, I think they will get it. The bad news, they will only beat the Spurs once.

It was surprising to see that the Spurs were just 14th in points per game allowed. Obviously age is starting to catch up to them and their defense has suffered. Tony Parker and Ginobli are their scoring leaders, and the wear and tear is starting to show on Tim Duncan, who averaged a career low 13.4 ppg. However, Duncan still fights hard on the glass and is complemented by DeJuan Blair.

They will be doing battle with Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. Randolph averaged a double double in points and rebounds. The Grizzlies have missed the scoring of Rudy Gay, but their defense has improved behind Tony Allen, and mid-season pickup Shane Battier.

The Grizzlies are an up and coming team but like any team that is building, they have to take some lumps first. I think getting a playoff win would be a huge step for this franchise and get that monkey off their back. Despite not winning the series, if the Grizzlies can at least win a game they should be pleased.

Prediction: Spurs over Grizzlies, 4-1

#4 Oklahoma City Thunder (55-27) vs. #5 Denver Nuggets (50-32)

This is the unquestioned best First Round series in the West. Both of these teams score in bunches and play average to poor defense, so expect many high scoring games. The Thunder continue to improve behind their young nucleus, led by Kevin Durant. They added Kendrick Perkins at the trade deadline, hoping to give themselves the inside presence to match up with the Lakers or Spurs. They have a dynamic point guard, Russell Westbrook, and a towering defensive presence in Serge Ibaka.

The Nuggets changed their identity when they traded Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to the Knicks. Getting rid of the distraction seemed to do wonders for the team's chemistry, and they have played excellent since the trade. Ty Lawson has taken the reigns at point guard and is half of a nice 1-2 punch with fellow Tar Heel Raymond Felton. Aaron Afflalo and J.R. Smith give the Nuggets depth at shooting guard, while Nene is their bruiser inside.

Nuggets coach George Karl admitted that the Thunder would be a bad matchup for his Nuggets. It could be construed as a psychological ploy but I think Karl was shooting from the hip. The Thunder are ready to continue their steps to being elite and will hold off a game Nuggets team.

Prediction: Thunder over Nuggets, 4-2

#2 Los Angeles Lakers (57-25) vs. #7 New Orleans Hornets (46-36)

Despite their stumbles throughout the season, and continued questions about Andrew Bynum's durability, the Lakers are still considered the favorites to come out of the West. The Hornets, led by Chris Paul, should be only a minor speed bump on the Lakers run to the Finals.

Kobe Bryant isn't as prolific as he once was, but he still averaged 25.3 ppg and played in all 82 games this season. Pau Gasol averaged 18 and 10, while Lamar Odom, despite being a sixth man, was third on the team with 14.4 ppg. When Bynum plays, he gives the Lakers a ridiculous inside presence with Gasol and Odom, but he is constantly injured and can't be counted on. The Lakers seemingly upgraded their bench in the off-season, but Steve Blake has been a disappointment, and Matt Barnes missed large stretches of the season. Ron Artest isn't quite the defensive player he used to be, and makes mind boggling decisions on the offensive end. Derek Fisher is barely alive at this point.

All that being said, the Hornets have Chris Paul and that's about it. The Hornets don't score or rebound much, and mostly get by on playing excellent defense. The loss of David West to a torn ACL crippled this team. Former Laker Trevor Ariza has proven to be a nice role player, but that's about all. The Hornets have another former Laker in DJ Mbenga, maybe he can get some playing time against his old teammates.

The Lakers are going to murder the Hornets inside, and I expect Gasol, Odom, and Bynum if he plays to have a monster series. Kobe will be Kobe. I think Paul can lead the Hornets to a win in New Orleans, but other than that, this series will be total annihilation by the Lakers.

Prediction: Lakers over Hornets, 4-1

#3 Dallas Mavericks (57-25) vs. #6 Portland Trail Blazers (48-34)

I can't stand Mark Cuban so by extension I can't stand the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavericks will have their hands full with Portland. The face of the Blazers is no longer Brandon Roy, it has become LeMarcus Aldridge. Their guard Wesley Matthews out of Marquette has been quite a find for the team, averaging 15.9 ppg. Despite being 88 years old, Andre Miller still gets it done, averaging 12.7 ppg and 7 assists per game. SF Gerald Wallace added some scoring punch when he was traded for before the deadline. The Blazers aren't a prolific scoring team but play tremendous defense, with Aldridge and Marcus Camby making life hell for anyone that decides to go to the hole.

I think the Blazers physical, tough presence will be the undoing for the Charmin soft Mavs. Their coach, Rick Carlisle even called them soft this season. Dirk Nowitzki makes Pau Gasol look tough, and their other big body Tyson Chandler doesn't intimidate anyone. Jason Kidd makes Andre Miller look young by comparison, and Shawn Marion's best years are behind him. Of course, the Mavs aren't as terrible as I making them seem, they won 57 games. But they have struggled down the stretch against the good teams, and mostly feasted on cupcakes.

All that being said this will be a very competitive series, and I think the only First Round series that will go seven games.

Prediction: Blazers over Mavericks, 4-3

2010 NBA Finals

#4 Boston Celtics vs. #1 Los Angeles Lakers

What has seemed destined for weeks begins on Thursday. In a rematch of the 2008 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics take on the Los Angeles Lakers. In 2008, the Celtics defeated the Lakers in six games, including an embarrassing Game 6 throttling by the Celtics. The Lakers will be looking for revenge and also for their second straight NBA Championship.

The Celtics bring back the same starting five from two years ago, while the Lakers have a couple major differences. Ron Artest is a significant upgrade over Vladimir Radmonovic, and the Lakers also have a healthy Andrew Bynum, which allows Pau Gasol to play power forward. Bynum's health has been questionable throughout the playoffs but his presence will make a huge difference in guarding Kendrick Perkins.

The Celtics have a huge advantage at point guard with Rajon Rondo going against Derek Fisher. The Lakers can let Rondo get his, as the Lakers are used to being overmatched at point guard. As long as Fisher can contribute some scoring he maintains his usefulness. The Lakers main advantage is having the best player in basketball on their team, Kobe Bryant. Bryant was other worldly against the Phoenix Suns and it seems that everyone has come to their senses and realizes he is the best player in basketball over LeBron James.

As I mentioned, Ron Artest's presence will make a huge difference in this series. Paul Pierce went off in 2008, winning the Finals MVP. I am certain he will have much less of an impact with Artest on him. To me that is the biggest difference maker, and the reason the results will be different this time around.

Bench wise the Celtics have a slight advantage. The Lakers have Shannon Brown, Jordan Farmar, and Lamar Odom. Lately, they have been playing with an 8-man rotation, as Luke Walton, DJ Mbenga, Sasha Vujacic, and Josh Powell have been seeing very limited playing time. The Celtics bench includes Tony Allen, the suddenly reappearing Nate Robinson, Glen Davis, and Rasheed Wallace. In my opinion the Celtics bench was stronger two years ago, with steady guys like PJ Brown and James Posey.

Another huge difference between 2008 and now is homecourt advantage. The Celtics had homecourt in 2008, and it helped propel them to a 2-0 series lead. The Lakers have the homecourt this time and need to win the first two games in Los Angeles, which would allow them to instantly gain control of the series.

This will be a great back and forth series. I expect it go to the full seven games, with the Lakers pulling it out in Game 7 behind another epic Bryant performance. I think the Lakers have the players to slow the Celtics down, and I think the revenge factor will play a huge part in this series. Kobe and Phil will be celebrating their fifth and eleventh championships, respectively.

Prediction: Lakers over Celtics, 4-3

2010 NBA Playoffs - Los Angeles Lakers

Western Conference Finals

#1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. #3 Phoenix Suns

The defending NBA champion Lakers have gotten their swagger back. After struggling with upstart Oklahoma City in Round One, the Lakers disposed of the Utah Jazz in four games. Now they face a red-hot Phoenix Suns team. The Suns are fresh off a sweep of their own, over longtime rival San Antonio.

Los Angeles always has the advantages in the size department with Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, and Lamar Odom. The Suns strength is their athletic play on the perimeter, led by Steve Nash. Nash should run circles over Lakers point guard Derek Fisher, but that has been the case for about three years now for the Lakers. Jason Richardson will have the unenviable task of trying to slow down the best player in basketball, Kobe Bryant. Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol, and the hobbling Andrew Bynum will all probably see time guarding Amare Stoudemire. Ron Artest will be going up against a revitalized Grant Hill.

The new theme with the Suns is that they can now play defense, in addition to their run and gun style. However, playing good defense is easier when you aren't facing an offense with so many options, like the Lakers have. The Lakers will have the size advantage and thus should have many second chance opportunities. The Suns will have to play as well defensively and probably better than they did against the Spurs to have a chance.

I really don't think the Suns will be as difficult a challenge for the Lakers as some believe. I know that the Suns are playing very good basketball right now, but they aren't built to handle the Lakers. The Lakers shouldn't overlook Phoenix, but the Boston Celtics or Orlando Magic present bigger problems. I think LA will take care of business at home, as they have all postseason, and then steal a game in Phoenix. Then it will be off to defend their NBA championship.

Prediction: Lakers over Suns, 4-1

2010 NBA Playoffs - Los Angeles Lakers

Western Conference First Round

#1 Los Angeles Lakers (57-25) vs. #8 Oklahoma City Thunder (50-32)

The Lakers come limping into the playoffs and get to face the upstart Thunder in the First Round. The Lakers have been a slightly above .500 basketball team since the All-Star Break and star Kobe Bryant has been dealing with a myriad of injuries. They have also been without C Andrew Bynum who got his yearly injury. It is expected Bynum will return for the series, but his effectiveness remains questionable.

The Thunder are tied with the Milwaukee Bucks as the most surprising team in the NBA this season. After an awful 23-59 season a year ago, the Thunder improved by 27 wins this season. SF Kevin Durant has become the best scorer in the league and one of the most exciting players. But he isn't the only young superstar the Thunder have. PG Russell Westbrook, F Jeff Green, G James Harden, and backup PG Eric Maynor, along with Durant are all 23 or younger. This is a team that has a tremendous upside and will be championship contenders in about a year or two.

Although they won't be matched up on each other often all eyes will be on the battle between Bryant and Durant. This series has the potential to be the most exciting series in the First Round. The Thunder will definitely be competitive with the Lakers, but the experience factor is heavily in the Lakers corner. The Lakers will miss Bynum's presence if he isn't effective, but Pau Gasol can more than make up for it against a Thunder team that has an injured Nenad Kristic as their best big man. The Thunder definitely have the edge at point guard with Westbrook being much better than Derek Fisher. However, just about every point guard is better than Fisher at this point in his career and that hasn't slowed the Lakers down before.

Lakers SF Ron Artest will have the tough task of defending Durant. While Artest won't be expected to completely stop Durant, he will have to make life difficult for him. Lakers PF Lamar Odom could have a huge series for the Lakers and has always been the X factor for them. When he plays to his capabilities the Lakers are nearly unbeatable.

The Thunder should definitely make Lakers fans nervous but they still have a ways to go before they can legitimately have a chance of knocking off the champions. I expect most of the games to be close, and the Thunder to steal a game at home, but the Lakers will march on.

Prediction: Lakers over Thunder, 4-1

The Week That Was

The Los Angeles Lakers captured their 15th NBA Championship last night, crushing the lifeless Orlando Magic on their home floor, 99-86 to win the series 4-1. Kobe Bryant scored 30 points and had 4 blocks, and earned his first NBA Finals MVP. He also quieted any rational haters of him their might be (their are very few) by winning a title without one of the most overrated players of all time, Shaquille O'Neal. Bryant was spectacular this season, embracing his role as a leader of this team. He almost seemed to be more of a coach than the greatest coach in NBA history, Phil Jackson, who captured his record 10th NBA Championship. The Lakers face some question marks for next season with both Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza being free agents. It would be ideal to re sign both, especially Ariza but the Lakers may not be able to afford that. Ariza has to be the one that's kept if it is decided to let one walk. He was huge in the playoffs and stepped up consistently on both offense and defense. Odom can be a force on both ends but you never know what to expect out of him. Jackson has one year left on his contract and there is talk he might retire and leave the game as a champion. I couldn't blame him if he decides to. All of that is irrelevant for now, the Lakers are champions and Bryant has secured his legacy as one of the Top-10 all time players in the game.

The NHL season also wrapped up this past weekend with the Pittsburgh Penguins shocking the hockey world and defeating the Detroit Red Wings in Detroit to capture the Stanley Cup. The Penguins were left for dead after being beaten soundly in the first two games in Detroit. They managed to even the series up in Pittsburgh but then were left for dead again after dropping Game 5 at Detroit. I think the Penguins themselves might have been the only ones who thought they could win a Game 7 at Detroit. Cindy Crosby left the game with a hang nail in the second period but the Penguins still were able to take a 2-0 lead on goals by Maxime Talbot. Detroit cut the deficit to one and then furiously tried to tie the game but were denied by some brilliant goaltending by Marc-Andre Fleury. The Penguins were on the outside looking in for the playoffs before firing their coach Michael Therrien. They replaced him with minor league coach Dan Bylsma and the rest is history. Pittsburgh now has the Super Bowl Champion Steelers and the Stanley Cup Champion Penguins.

2009 NBA Finals - #1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. #3 Orlando Magic

Players to Watch - Orlando Magic: What makes the Orlando Magic so dangerous is their dominance inside with C Dwight Howard and their ability to hit the three with guys like PG Rafer Alston, potentially PG Jameer Nelson, SG Courtney Lee, SF Hedo Turkoglu, and PF Rashard Lewis. SG J.J Redick is also a threat, but considering he only played 10 minutes in the Eastern Conference Finals, he figures to not be much of a factor. Howard is dominant because of his size, not because of his basketball acumen. He still has a ways to go as far as developing actual post moves and having the type of game that Hakeem Olajuwon had. However, that doesn't discount his ability to take over games and be a force inside. Lee has been the biggest surprise of last year's draft. The rookie shows no fear taking big shots, is a good defender, and a great shooter. Turkoglu and Lewis present matchup problems for just about every team in the league. They can both drive to the hoop, but are at their most dangerous when left open behind the three point line. If those two are both on fire the Magic are unbeatable. Alston was a smart pick up by Orlando after Nelson went down. He can be turnover prone and shoots poorly at times but he steadied the ship for Orlando. It is believed that Nelson will return for the Finals after missing the past 4 months. A healthy Nelson had blossomed into an All-Star this year. A healthy Nelson can facilitate, hit threes and be a factor. Nelson was the Magic's leading scorer in their two wins over LA this season. It remains to be seen how effective a rusty Nelson will be. SG Mickael Pietrus is another dangerous weapon for Orlando. His shooting percentages have gone way up in the playoffs, as he hit 50% of his shots against the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers. C Marcin Gortat is an adequate backup for Howard. Of course there is a drop off from Howard to Gortat but Gortat moves well, shoots well, and can be a force on the defensive end.

Players to Watch - Los Angeles Lakers: SG Kobe Bryant is the reason the Lakers are in the NBA Finals. People tend to think the Lakers are this massively talented team but really its Bryant, FC Pau Gasol, and when he isn't on a sugar low PF Lamar Odom. Gasol is a very talented offensive player, who is one of the best big man at catching and shooting, instead of putting the ball on the floor and leaving himself open to being stripped. However, Gasol is soft on the defensive end. Odom can be a great scoring and rebounding lift off the bench when he plays interested. Other times he just takes up space. PG Derek Fisher is old, a defensive liability, and a spotty shooter at best at this point in his career. Some of his shots in the playoffs have not just been misses but Musson like (inside joke) in their awfulness. SG Shannon Brown has been a pleasant surprise since being picked up in a trade with the Charlotte Bobcats. He couldn't crack the Bobcats sorry rotation but has seen quality minutes with the Lakers. He did struggle against the Nuggets and will need to up his game against Orlando. PG Jordan Farmar saw his minutes decrease drastically during the playoffs. He barely played against the Jazz, saw decent time against the Rockets, and then saw limited time against the Nuggets. He plays alright defense, but doesn't provide much on offense. SFs Luke Walton and Trevor Ariza can be hit or miss, although Ariza has been fantastic in the playoffs. He couldn't crack Orlando's rotation but came up with some huge steals against the Nuggets and is shooting a tremendous 50% from three in the playoffs. Walton brings defense, and the occasional offense. I almost forgot C Andrew Bynum. He was seen as the missing link last year for the Lakers when he missed the playoffs due to injury. He got injured again this season and has been largely ineffective since returning. He has been a foul machine, played tentative, and added almost nothing. I would say the Lakers need him to step up but I don't expect him to. He can at least match up with Howard size wise.

Matchups: The Lakers trio of PGs, Fisher, Brown, and Farmar will match up with the Magic's PGs Alston, Nelson, and Anthony Johnson. The Magic have the edge but only slightly. Fisher will have some trouble guarding Alston but the Lakers have already played better PGs in Deron Williams and Chauncey Billups. Pietrus took on LeBron James in the Eastern Conference Finals and will get to guard Kobe in the NBA Finals. Pietrus is a very physical defender, James was able to dominate Pietrus with his size, something that Kobe can't do.The Rockets had Shane Battier who played very physical defense against Kobe, Pietrus can cause Bryant those sorts of problems, although he is not near the defender that Battier is. However, it is Kobe Bryant we are talking about, of course the Lakers have the advantage. The Lakers will have to be on constant lock down mode with Courtney Lee. Bryant will probably guard Lee some, along with Brown and maybe Vujacic. I think Lee could have a really good series. I think if Kobe is on him the Lakers will be alright, but if they rely on Brown or Vujacic then Lee will have a field day. The Magic killed the Cavaliers with Turkoglu and Lewis. The Lakers match up very well with those two. Ariza can definitely guard Hedo, while Lamar and Gasol can handle Lewis if need be. I am not saying that Lewis and Turkoglu will be completely ineffective but I guarantee they won't dominate the way they did in the Conference Finals. Gasol and Bynum will be responsible for Howard and Gortat. I expect Howard to have a tremendous series, mostly because the Lakers are soft inside. However, Howard can score his and the Lakers can still win. LeBron dominated Orlando but since no one else stepped up, the Cavs were cooked. The most important matchups to watch are the Ariza, Odom, Gasol vs. Turkoglu and Lewis battles. If the Lakers can win that matchup, they win the series.

Prediction: The Magic took both regular season meetings. If you think that means anything look back to the 2007 NBA Finals. The Cavaliers had beaten the San Antonio Spurs in both their meetings, then got swept. If the Lakers win Game 1 tonight this series is over. Phil Jackson coached teams are 43-0 in series' in which they have won Game 1. That is an astounding stat. That is exactly what will happen tonight. The Lakers will take Game 1 at home, the Magic will then even the series in Game 2. The series will be 1-1 and with the Magic having three straight games at home (the 2-3-2 format sucks) people will be on the Magic bandwagon. Kobe will take over Game 3 in Orlando and do what LeFraud couldn't, win in Orlando. The Magic will even the series with an inspired performance in Game 4. The Lakers will persevere in Game 5 and like they have done all season with their backs against the wall they will prevail. Then Kobe in front of all his LA fans will bring the Lakers their first title since 2002, and will get the unwarranted monkey off his back about not being able to win a title without Shaquille O'Neal. Bryant will be named NBA Finals MVP and all will be right in the world of basketball.

Los Angeles over Orlando, 4-2

2009 NBA Finals - How They Got There

How They Got There - Orlando Magic: The Orlando Magic's run to the NBA Finals began with an inauspicious start against the Philadelphia 76ers in the First Round. Andre Iguodala hit a shot at the buzzer to give the Sixers the victory at Orlando in Game 1. The Magic would recover and take Game 2 at home, but then found themselves down 2-1 after a tough loss in Philadelphia. The Magic got a must win in Game 4 at Philadelphia, then took care of business at home in Game 5, taking a 3-2 series lead. However, they faced question marks going into Game 6 as C Dwight Howard was suspended for the game due to an elbow he threw at Samuel Dalmebert in Game 5. The Magic's role players stepped up huge, including SG J.J. Redick and C Marcin Gortat, and the Magic rolled to an easy win to take the series, 4-2.

In the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals the Magic took on the defending NBA Champion Boston Celtics. The big story was the absence of Kevin Garnett for the Celtics. The Celtics were coming off a grueling seven game series against the Chicago Bulls and were nearly run out of their own building in the first three quarters of Game 1 against the Magic. They recovered and made a game of it in the 4th quarter, but the Magic pulled out the win. The Celtics then took Game 2 to even the series as the teams headed to Orlando. The Magic coasted to victory in Game 3, but then suffered another heartbreaking loss on their home floor, as Big Baby Davis hit a shot at the buzzer to give the Celtics the win, and even the series at 2. In Game 5 at Boston, the Magic led by as many as 14 points and seemed on their way to taking control of the series, then they choked and the Celtics won, putting the Magic on the brink of elimination. After the game Howard criticized head coach Stan Van Gundy for not sticking with the lineup that was working, and also for his lack of touches late in the game. Howard backed up his words in Game 6, taking command late, and led the Magic from behind to even the series at 3. The Magic then destroyed the Celtics in Game 7 at Boston, sending them to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 1996.

In the Eastern Conference Finals the Magic were heavy underdogs against what turned out to be one of the most overrated teams in the history of EVAR, the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs were blowing the Magic out in Game 1, but Orlando made a furious comeback, and got the win on a late Rashard Lewis shot. In Game 2, once again Orlando got down big, but once again made a huge comeback and seemed on their way to taking another game in Cleveland after Hedo Turkoglu hit a shot with 1 second remaining. However, LeBron James managed to get off a shot right before the buzzer, sending the Magic to their third heartbreaking loss of the playoffs. The Magic showed great resolve at home in Game 3, winning the battle of the fouls, to take a 2-1 series lead. The Cavs faced a must win situation in Game 4. The refs tried to hand the game to the Cavs on numerous occasions, including a ridiculous foul call on Michael Pietrus at the end of regulation that allowed James to hit two free throws and send the game to overtime. In overtime, Howard took over, and the Magic took a 3-1 lead. Back in Cleveland for Game 5, the Cavs once again got up big, and once again blew the lead. The Magic weren't able to hold their lead and faltered late, sending the series back to Orlando. The Magic dominated Game 6 at home, with Howard having a huge 40 point night. The Magic were back in the NBA Finals for the first time since getting swept by the Houston Rockets in 1995.

How They Got There - Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers were heavy favorites to represent the Western Conference in the NBA Finals, and lived up to the hype in their first two games against the Utah Jazz in Round One. They dominated the Jazz in both games, sending the series to Utah with a commanding 2-0 lead. In Game 3, the Lakers led the Jazz the majority of the game, but then seemed to lose interest and fell on a late shot by Deron Williams. In Game 4, Kobe Bryant played like a man possessed and carried the Lakers to victory. The Lakers then closed out the Jazz in Los Angeles in Game 5.

Things got much tougher for the Lakers in the Western Conference Semi-Finals against the Houston Rockets. The Lakers got a huge wake up call at home in Game 1. They played listless basketball and the Rockets made them pay. Yao Ming dominated the Lakers and all of the sudden the Rockets had a 1-0 series lead and home court advantage. Playing with their backs against the wall in Game 2 the Lakers played much more inspired basketball, sending the series to Houston, even at 1-1. The Lakers brought another strong performance in Game 3 at Houston, taking a 2-1 series lead. It was also learned after the game that Ming would be out for the rest of the playoffs, leading many to assume the Lakers were already on their way to the Western Conference Finals. However, Houston had a say about that and completely demolished the Lakers in Game 4, in what was by far the Lakers sorriest performance of the postseason. Embarrassed, the Lakers came out with vengeance in Game 5 and crushed Houston, once again making everyone feel safe that a Lakers series win was inevitable. But in Game 6 at Houston, the Lakers started slow again, getting down 17-1 to start the game. They slowly chipped away at the deficit but were never able to overcome it, and to the shock of most of the basketball world, the series was headed to LA for a Game 7. Game 7 was decided in the first few minutes, the Lakers jumped out to a huge lead and cruised to victory. They were back in the Western Conference Finals for the sixth time this decade.

While the Lakers had looked less than impressive against Houston, the Denver Nuggets were becoming the media's darlings as they zoomed past the New Orleans Hornets and Dallas Mavericks. Many pundits had changed their minds and now decided that the Nuggets would be winning the Western Conference. In Game 1 at Los Angeles, the Nuggets controlled most of the game but were never able to get a big lead. Late in the game Bryant took control, and the Lakers got a key steal on an inbounds pass from Trevor Ariza, sealing the victory. Game 2 was another closely contested game, but this time the Nuggets held on for the win, sending the series back to Denver, tied 1-1. Much like he did in Utah for Game 3, Kobe decided there was no way the Lakers were losing and had a dominating performance, giving homecourt advantage back to LA. After already getting the win they needed in Denver, LA decided not to try very hard in Game 4, and it showed as they were out rebounded and dominated by Denver, evening the series at 2. In Game 5, the Nuggets once again played strongly in LA and the teams were tied after each of the first three quarters. In the fourth quarter, Bryant played a different role, this time he was the facilitator, finding open teammates left and right. Lamar Odom, who had been mostly silent in the playoffs, had 20 points off the bench. Derek Fisher, who had struggled shooting wise all playoffs hit some huge threes. Even Sasha Vujacic got into the act. The Lakers were headed to Denver up 3-2. Many assumed Denver would take care of business and the series would go 7, Bryant and the Lakers weren't having that. LA led throughout the first half and then blew the Nuggets out of their own building in the second half, give the Lakers the series win and sending them to their 30th NBA Finals.

The Week That Was

The supposed best player in the NBA walked off the court on Saturday a loser. The Cleveland Cavaliers were upended in six games by the Orlando Magic and their dream season of beating nobodies, and performing lame skits before games came to an end. James refused to shake hands with the Magic afterward or even address the media, leaving his teammates to do the job a leader such as himself should have done. The Magic proved to be far superior to the Cavaliers, who still appear to be LeBron and little else. Mo Williams had supposedly become the second banana, but he only showed up for Game 5, and otherwise was virtually useless.

On the other side of the spectrum you have the Los Angeles Lakers, who crushed the Denver Nuggets on Friday, to wrap up that series, 4-2. The Lakers have taken a beating this postseason, with claims that they haven't played hard consistently, but they will be playing in the NBA Finals Thursday, while LeBron and his puppet watch at home. Kobe carried the Lakers in this series, when he needed to be a facilitator, he facilitated, when he needed to score, he scored. That is what a leader truly is. It is funny and annoying to me how if Kobe had pulled what LeBron pulled people would have been all over him for being such a poor sport. LeBron does it and all of the LeBronites want to make excuses for him. Check back Thursday, when I have a comprehensive preview and prediction for the Disney NBA Final between the Magic and the Lakers.

The Stanley Cup Finals started Saturday night and in just two short days they appear to be over. For the second straight year the Detroit Red Wings have taken a 2-0 lead over the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins are actually playing much better this year but all it led to was consecutive 3-1 losses. The series resumes tomorrow night in Pittsburgh, in what is a must win game for the Penguins.

Orioles C Matt Wieters made his long awaited debut Friday night against the Detroit Tigers. It was a weekend of ups and downs for Wieters. Friday and Sunday he went hitless, and sandwiched in between those games was Saturday night, where he had a double and a triple. There is a ton of hype and pressure surrounding Wieters. Orioles fans are looking to him as a possible savior for a franchise that has been mired in crap for a decade now. Orioles fans will have to understand that Wieters can be a piece in the O's resurgence but he won't be able to bring that resurgence single handedly.

2009 NBA Playoffs

Eastern Conference Finals

#1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs. #3 Orlando Magic

Finally, the Cavaliers will have some legitimate competition. The Cavs have had more days off than playoff games thus far, after demolishing both the Detroit Pistons and Atlanta Hawks in back to back sweeps. Some people have been crazy enough to suggest the Cavaliers might go 16-0 and win the NBA title. I have two problems with that. Firstly, this team plays in Cleveland, sports history mandates that their road to the championship won't be that easy. Secondly, they beat the Hawks and the Pistons, teams that instill fear in no one and teams that wouldn't even have made the playoffs in the Western Conference.

The Magic disposed of the defending NBA Champion Boston Celtics in seven games. They tried many times to choke the series away but finally choked the life out of the Celtics in Game 7 in Boston. The Magic own the distinction of being the most frustrating team to watch in the NBA. They have a dominant center in Dwight Howard and a team full of chuckers in JJ Redick, Hedo Turkoglu and Rashard Lewis. When those chuckers are hitting, like they were in Game 7 at Boston, the Magic are pretty much unbeatable. However, when they don't, instead of realizing that and feeding the big man inside, they keep chucking.

The Magic can take some confidence from the fact that they had the Cavaliers number in recent years, including a beat down in Orlando the last time these teams got together. Matchup wise the Cavs have the greatest player in basketball, LeBron James, and the Magic have to contain him in some way. Really, the Magic's focus should be to let LeBron get his and shut down his teammates, including Mo Williams, Delonte West, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas.

I think LeBron and Mo Williams hold distinct advantages for the Cavs. If Jameer Nelson was healthy for the Magic I would like their chances much more, as the point guard battle wouldn't be lopsided. However, with Rafer Alston starting, I think Williams and West can tear him up. I expect Howard to have a big series and dominant Ilgauskas, but its hard to pick against the team with homecourt advantage and the best player in the world. The Magic will show that the Cavs are beatable but they won't show it enough to make the Finals.

Prediction: Cleveland over Orlando, 4-2

Western Conference Finals

#1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. #2 Denver Nuggets

It ended up being much harder than any Lakers fans expected but the Lakers are in the Western Conference Finals for the second straight season. The Lakers seemingly have been playing with a laissez faire attitude, turning their effort level on and off. With their backs against the wall against the Houston Rockets the Lakers would use maximum effort, but if given any sort of wiggle room the Lakers looked about as good as the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Hopefully, they have been paying attention to the playoffs because any sort of let down against the Nuggets will lead to the end of their season. The Nuggets have been the second most dominant team in the playoffs and because of that are losing room on their bandwagon. The Nuggets have become the popular pick to defeat the Lakers and prevent the dream showdown of Kobe vs. LeBron.

The Nuggets certainly have an edge at point guard. Derek Fisher was made to look foolish for most of the series against Houston by Aaron Brooks and will have to deal with a player that is twice as good as Brooks, in Chauncey Billups. However, who do the Nuggets have that can slow down Kobe Bryant? Who on the defensive end will help them contain Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum? Kenyon Martin hasn't been able to do it in the past and I'm not buying that Carmelo Anthony has all of the sudden become a defensive stopper. I keep hearing that the Nuggets play defense now but they haven't faced a team with the amount of weapons that the Lakers have.

Another fact the people seem to want to overlook is that the Lakers have absolutely dominated the Nuggets in recent years. Sure, most of those games were without Billups but the Nuggets first have to prove to themselves that they can even beat the Lakers once, let alone four times in one series.

Don't get me wrong, this will be a very competitive and entertaining series. I think the Lakers will not have the on/off switch in this one because they will show nothing less than maximum intensity. Kobe vs. LeBron is meant to happen and while most of the time we don't get to see our dream matchups in sports, this year we will.

Prediction: Los Angeles over Denver, 4-2

2009 NBA Playoffs

Eastern Conference Semi-Finals

#1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs. #4 Atlanta Hawks

The series no one wanted to see has come to fruition. Pretty much any NBA fan was hoping the Miami Heat would defeat the Hawks in the First Round so that we could be treated to a battle of LeBron James and Dwayne Wade. Instead we will have to settle for LeBron against Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Mike Bibby, and company.

The Cavs steamrolled the Detroit Pistons in four game and will be playing their first game in 9 days tonight. The Hawks are coming off the most boring seven game series in the history of the NBA Playoffs and will be at a significant disadvantage when it comes to conditioning. The Cavs are of course led by MVP LeBron James, and also complemented by PG Mo Williams, PF Anderson Varajeo, C Zydrunas Illgauskas, and SG Delonte West.

The Hawks get contributions from all over the place, SG Joe Johnson is their scoring leader, PF Josh Smith is their leader in rebounding, steals, and blocks, while PG Mike Bibby is the one that stirs the drink. Overlooked but worth mentioning is that the Hawks are a formidable home team, they finished 31-10 at home in the regular season.

I think the Hawks can steal a game at home but they have no chance to take this series. LeBron James could almost single handedly lead the Cavs over the Hawks, add in the contributions that his teammates have given this year and the Cavs roll will continue.

Prediction: Cleveland over Atlanta, 4-1

#2 Boston Celtics vs. #3 Orlando Magic

This series got started last night as the Magic built a 28 point lead in the second half, nearly choked it away, and then held on for the victory. The Celtics are missing PF Kevin Garnett and PF Leon Power for the rest of the playoffs. For them to have any chance in this series they will need SG Ray Allen, and PF Glen Davis to play out of their minds like they did against the Chicago Bulls.

The Magic are led by superstar C Dwight Howard, and are a team that loves to shoot threes. PF Rashard Lewis, SF Hedo Turkoglu, SG Mickael Pietrus, and SG J.J. Redick live and die by the three. Watching the Magic can be maddening because they should build their entire offense around Howard, but seem content to feed him the ball occasionally and shoot threes the majority of the time.

The Celtics are a depleted and exhausted team and it showed in the first game. I think the Magic are ready to take the next step in their evolution as a championship contender and will end the Celtics reign as champions.

Prediction: Orlando over Boston, 4-2


Western Conference Semi-Finals

#1 Los Angeles Lakers vs. #5 Houston Rockets

If anyone thought the Lakers path to the Finals would be easy it was erased last night. The Rockets took Game 1 and did it rather easily on the Lakers home floor. The Lakers were undone by a horrible shooting night by just about everyone with FC Pau Gasol, C Andrew Bynum, PF Lamar Odom, and SG Kobe Bryant all struggling. I don't expect the Lakers to continue to shoot as poorly as they did last night but the Rockets defense is much better than the defense the Lakers faced from the Jazz in Round One.

The Rockets got great games from SF Ron Artest and C Yao Ming last night. The x-factor could be PG Aaron Brooks, who was running circles around the Lakers all night. The big question for them will be can they play at that high a level for an entire series.

I think the Lakers will recover in Game 2 Wednesday night and then steal a game in Houston. It will be a very tough, physical series but Bryant is going to will the Lakers on to the Western Conference Finals.

Prediction: Los Angeles over Houston, 4-2

#2 Denver Nuggets vs. #6 Dallas Mavericks

Both these teams surprised me in Round One as I had both of them losing in their respective series. The Mavericks and Nuggets both decimated their opponents, the San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Hornets. I wasn't taking the Nuggets too seriously but after the way they destroyed the Hornets, and then crushed the Mavs in Game One, they are definitely a title contender.

PG Chauncey Billups has changed the entire culture of the Nuggets team and it is apparent his winning attitude has rubbed off on his teammates. SF Carmelo Anthony is just as good as ever, and PF Kenyon Martin has changed his game to become quite the defensive threat. The Nuggets are also getting great contributions from FC Chris "Birdman, Hardcore Drug Abuser" Andersen.

The Mavericks are led by PG Jason Kidd. Kidd is completely useless on the defensive end but can still find the open teammate better than almost any point guard in the game. SF Josh Howard and PF Dirk Nowitzki both had a great series against the Spurs. PG Jason Terry provides the spark for the Mavericks off the bench.

It has become quite clear that the Nuggets are the second best team in the Western Conference. The Mavericks will put up a fight but it won't be enough.

Prediction: Denver over Dallas, 4-2

The Week That Was

The First Round of the NBA Playoffs is finally finished and the Second Round tipped off yesterday. The Los Angeles Lakers are back in action tonight after almost a week off, as they are set to take on the Houston Rockets. The Lakers easily disposed of the Utah Jazz in the First Round, 4-1. Conventional wisdom would say the Rockets should pose a much greater threat, but the Lakers dominated them in the regular season, winning all four meetings. Of course, the playoffs are a completely different animal.

The Chicago Bulls season came to an end as they lost Game 7 at Boston. People seem hesitant to say anything beyond this series being the greatest first round series ever, but to me this was the greatest series I have ever seen. I will not say ever in the history of basketball, but as a basketball fan since I was 6 years old I have never seen a more competitive and entertaining series. Sure both coaches made some bonehead moves but for sheer entertainment value, it doesn't get any better than what I just witnessed over the past 2 weeks.

Check back tomorrow as I will have a full preview and predictions for the Second Round of the playoffs.

The NHL Playoffs are also in to their second round and to the excitement of the Washington, DC area the Washington Capitals are still playing. The Caps recovered from a 3-1 deficit against the New York Rangers, winning that series. That has set up a dream matchup in the Second Round between Alex Ovechkin and the Caps versus Cindy Crosby and Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Caps took Game 1 at home in exciting fashion and the series continues with Game 2 tonight. This series could really bring in the casual hockey fan, and possibly provide a boon to the NHL.

The Baltimore Orioles completed a miserable week that saw them go 0-6. They now sit at 9-16 and the wheels are coming off already. The team can't win unless they score 6 runs or more, which is an impossible pace for the offense to maintain. It is just as frustrating as ever to watch this team. No Orioles Magic today, but they start a 2 game road series at Tampa Bay. My expectations are low.

The Week That Was

Trying to find time for the blog over the past week has been difficult to say the least. However, I owe it to my loyal readers to give my best effort. It is one of the best times of year to be a sports fan. The NBA and NHL Playoffs are in full swing, and the NFL continues to dominate headlines, even in its off season, with the NFL Draft.

The Washington Capitals have come back from the brink of elimination to even their series with the New York Rangers, 3-3. Tuesday night the Caps will host the Rangers and try to complete the come back from a 3-1 deficit. If it seems like deja vu from last year that is because it is. The Caps got behind the Philadelphia Flyers last year 3-1, before making a frantic comeback to even the series at 3. They had the deciding seventh game at the Verizon Center but fell in overtime. Hopefully, they can re write a new chapter tomorrow night.

The NBA Playoffs have been very entertaining, with many games coming right down to the final buzzer. The Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics are engaged in a tremendous series, that is now 2 apiece after the Bulls overtime win yesterday. I wish I could be watching more of this series as it has been tremendous. Derrick Rose and Rajon Rondo continue to play a game of can you top this.

The Los Angeles Lakers got a key victory over the Jazz on Saturday in Utah to take a 3-1 series lead. After a miserable game three, Kobe Bryant went off in game four. It is only a matter of time before the Lakers close out the Jazz.

The NFL Draft was this past Saturday and some of the major picks by the San Franciso 49ers, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings, and Philadelphia Eagles were tremendous. The Niners had Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree fall into their laps after the Oakland Raiders passed on him for Maryland WR Darius Heyward-Bey. Crabtree gives the Niners a young, bonafide receiver and should help take some of the pressure off RB Frank Gore. The Niners could still use some help at the QB position but you can't argue with them taking Crabtree. The Redskins avoided being stupid and trading up for incredibly overrated QB Mark Sanchez out of USC, and instead stuck at #13 and took Texas Defensive End Brian Orakpo. The Redskins are mostly very old on the defensive line but with the additions of Orakpo and Haynesworth in the off-season should be much more improved up front. That could be scary for the rest of the league as the Skins were already the 4th best defense in the NFL last year without those two. The Vikings took WR Percy Harvin of Florida, who had slipped because of character questions. It reminded me of when the Vikings had Randy Moss fall into their laps. I don't think Harvin will have the career of Moss but he is ridiculously talented, and his speed will be in full effect on the Metrodome turf. The Vikings, like the Niners, still need to upgrade the QB position but based on where they were drafting this was the best pick they could have made. The Eagles confused me a bit by taking Missouri WR Jeremy Maclin in the first round, but then made a great pick when they got Pittsburgh RB LeSean McCoy. McCoy will take some pressure off of Brian Westbrook and gives the Eagles another versatile option in their backfield. Adding Maclin to their receiving corps gives the Eagles two young, talented receivers, as Maclin will join last year's rookie sensation DeSean Jackson.

2009 NBA Playoffs - Los Angeles Lakers (65-17)

Western Conference First Round

#1 Los Angeles Lakers (65-17) vs. #8 Utah Jazz (48-34)

The Los Angeles Lakers begin their march to righting the wrongs of last year with a First Round meeting against the Utah Jazz. This is a rematch of last year's Western Conference Semi-Final Round, which the Lakers took out the Jazz in 6 games. The Jazz gave the Lakers all they could handle in that series last year but things figure to be a little easier for the Lakers this time around.

Firstly, they will have C Andrew Bynum in the playoffs. Bynum missed last year's playoffs and is widely considered the main reason the Lakers lost to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. Bynum was out for a few months this season but came back last week and is slowly working himself back in to game shape. Secondly, the Jazz come into the playoffs reeling. They have lost 7 of 9 which caused them to tumble to the 8th spot and have the unenviable task of meeting the Lakers. The Lakers took the season series 2-1, including a win last night against the Jazz at Staples Center.

The Jazz are led by PG Deron Williams (19.4 points per game, 10.7 assists per game), and PF Carlos Boozer, who played in just 37 games this year. Picking up the slack during Boozer's absence was C Mehmet Okur, who finished second on the team in scoring with 17 points per game. The biggest threat on the glass for the Jazz is PF Paul Millsap who led the team with 8.6 rebounds per game. SG Ronnie Brewer is another scoring threat but also disappears in games quite a bit. SF C.J. Miles has shown promise as an undrafted free agent, averaging 9 points per game. SG Kyle Korver is a three point specialist, shooting 39 percent from three point land this season.

Of course when you think of the Lakers you think of Kobe Bryant. Despite his scoring being slightly down this year Bryant had another outstanding season and is once again garnering MVP consideration. Bryant led the Lakers in scoring and assists (26.8 points per game, 4.9 assists per game). Pau Gasol had an outstanding season in his first full season with Lakers, averaging 18.9 points per game, and leading the team in rebounding with 9.6 a game. The Lakers will have a major advantage on the glass against the Jazz, not only is Gasol a rebounding machine but so are Bynum (8 rebounds per game), and PF Lamar Odom (8.2 rebounds per game). PG Derek Fisher still has it, especially from three point land, shooting 40 percent from there this season. The Lakers also have a deep bench, receiving contributions from SF Trevor Ariza, SG Sasha Vujacic, PG Jordan Farmar, and SF Luke Walton.

Jazz coach Jerry Sloan basically admitted last night that the chances for his team taking this series are bleak. When even a coach has little faith in his team, how will the public have faith in them? The Lakers are better offensively and defensively. Bryant had great games against the Jazz this year, averaging 31 points per game against them. I think the Lakers are primed for a sweep.

Prediction: Lakers over Jazz, 4-0

The Week That Was

Congratulations to the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Champions, the North Carolina Tar Heels! The Heels destroyed Michigan State 89-72 to win their 6th national title and their second in five seasons. Roy Williams has done a pretty good job proving the morons wrong that say he can't coach. Much like they have all season, the Tar Heels absolutely decimated the Spartans right from the opening tip. The game was never close and the Heels got dominating performances out of Ty Lawson (21 points, 6 assists, NCAA title game record 8 steals), Tyler Hansbrough (18 points, 7 rebounds), Final Four MVP Wayne Ellington (19 points), and future superstar Ed Davis (11 points, 8 rebounds). Carolina won every tournament game by double digits, with their "closest" margin of victory being a 12 point win over Oklahoma in the Elite Eight. Carolina finishes the year 34-4, with their biggest defeat coming at the hands of Boston College, by just 7 points. This was in my opinion the greatest North Carolina team of all time. Just sheer dominance all season and it was great to see Hansbrough and Danny Green stay all four years and be rewarded with a national title. The Heels will put a vastly different team on the court next year with Hansbrough and Green graduating, and Lawson, Ellington, and Davis all potentially leaving early for the NBA, but that is something to worry about in October, until then the Heels are the best team in the nation!

As college basketball winds down, Major League Baseball had its Opening Day yesterday. I am a huge Baltimore Orioles fan and while the last 10 years have been terrible, one day that always seems to go the O's way is Opening Day. The Orioles defeated the New York Yankees 10-5 at Camden Yards, roughing up the Yankees marquee free agent acquisition pitcher CC Sabathia. The Orioles potent lineup showed how they can dominate as 2B Brian Roberts had three hits, CF Adam Jones had three hits and 2 RBIs, RF Nick Markakis had two hits and 2 RBIs, and even SS Cesar Izturis got in on the act with a HR that sealed the game late. The goal for the Orioles is a winning season, 82-80 would be perfectly fine with me. A quick blog note, starting Friday I will preview every single Orioles series here on CBH Sports.

The NHL and NBA playoffs are also quickly approaching. The Washington Capitals have clinched the Southeast Division and a playoff berth. I barely follow hockey but have seen the Capitals capture the DC area's interest so if anyone out there loves the Capitals and would like to write about their playoff run please contact me at christopher.hirsch@gmail.com. Once the NBA Playoffs start I will do a full preview of the entire playoffs and focus especially on the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers.