NBA Playoffs - Who's your team?

[pugjared]

I'm a Jazz man but I just can't see them getting past the Lakers in the semis, but I'm sure they will be able to beat Denver in 6.

My prediction for the Finals is LA v Cleveland. Not original but they are both such strong teams.

Go Jazz.

Brackets in case you need 'em. (http://espn.go.com/nba/bracket)

[pugjared]

I'm a Jazz man but I just can't see them getting past the Lakers in the semis, but I'm sure they will be able to beat Denver in 6.

My prediction for the Finals is LA v Cleveland. Not original but they are both such strong teams.

Go Jazz.

Brackets in case you need 'em. (http://espn.go.com/nba/bracket)

[mixmastermatt]

My team is the Suns since I have family down in Phoenix. I used to be much more into basketball when I was younger. It's really hard to be a pro fan here in KC since we haven't had a team since I was like 3 or 4 years old.

I agree with your assessment, Lakers and Cavs. I think Cavs will win.

[DarkShowers]

Boston Celtics fan here.

If they don't make it, I wouldn't mind if the Cavs win. Anyone but the Lakers.

[JJ Rage]

Jazz fan for life. Going to game 3 here in SLC on Friday night. I believe!

[jumpman919]

I'm going for the Nuggets, but if they don't win I'd like to see Cleveland take it.

[XBLirael]

I'm with Darkshowers! Love me some Celtics. Last night was awesome vs the Heat. Big Baby had the game of his life. Who says we need KG to win?

Here's an embarrassing picture of me wearing my favorite piece of sports paraphernalia at last month's Nuggets game.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/4476815804_e42e1cdf84.jpg

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

I want Lebron to get his ring. But I was born on a little farm in OK. I know the Thunder are down 0-2 and they're playing the Lakers. Tough chances but it'd be nice if they could knock off the Lakers and advance.

[DarkShowers]

That's not going to happen fortified. We have to hope that Dallas or Denver can take out LA.

Lirael, that was a great game. I haven't seen the Celtics dominate like that in awhile, but the Heat seemed to have given up half way through the game. We'll see if the Celtics can keep it up.

If we doing pictures, here is one of me at the Celtics/Lakers game at the Garden in January where the Celtics barely lost. I'm wearing my 80s Larry Bird warmup jacket.

http://i868.photobucket.com/albums/ab243/darkshowers/Celtics%20vs%20Lakers%202010/IMG_0318.jpg

http://i868.photobucket.com/albums/ab243/darkshowers/Celtics%20vs%20Lakers%202010/IMG_0315.jpg

[mixmastermatt]

@Lirael-Is that actually a dress or a real game-used jersey? Either way, you look amazing!

@Fortified-Even though I can't like the Thunder (I feel bad for Seattle's fans and the Sonics had a great history), I really hope they beat the Lakers.

I'm sad to admit that I've never been to an NBA game. But I have been on the floor of (then) America West Arena in Phoenix in 1994. Charles Barkley was my favorite player and the Suns were my team. We were visiting my grandparents and they took us down to the arena because for whatever reason, people could go in and eat in their food court all year round. There was a curtain open to the arena floor, so we went down and I walked on the court. It was only for a couple of minutes, but very cool.

[Brimtown]

I have to go with my home team, the Magic.

[XBLirael]

@Dark: Ha! Your jersey and my dress make a perfect Legend-loving pair. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-very-happy.gif

@matt: It's a dress. And thanks!

GO CELTICS!

[Mookel]

Given my love for Syracuse, I R a Nuggets fan by default (because of Carmelo Anthony).

[FredEx919]

What? No Lakers fans?? grrrr http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/51.gif

[pugjared]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by JJ Rage:
Jazz fan for life. Going to game 3 here in SLC on Friday night. I believe! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Have fun at the game tonight JJ. I'll try to keep my jealousy to a minimum.

[DarkShowers]

Thanks Lirael! Nice dress! I don't think I've ever seen one like it. You are right as it would go well with my jersey. Bird is a legend and I wish he had stayed in the Celtics organization.

Man, I missed tonight's game cause I went out. I hear it was an amazing, close game.

I'm not a Lakers fan but I will say I respect the team especially Magic Johnson.

[JJ Rage]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by pugjared:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by JJ Rage:
Jazz fan for life. Going to game 3 here in SLC on Friday night. I believe! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Have fun at the game tonight JJ. I'll try to keep my jealousy to a minimum. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>


It was a great game to watch live until it turned into a whistle-fest in the last 4 minutes. Still, the Jazz buried Denver and hopefully they'll take game 4 on Sunday night.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Ah man Dave. You'd better hold your tongue for now. Series tied 2-2!!! Hardy har!

[XBLirael]

I'm actually glad Miami won one. I don't like it when a team sweeps. It's like watching a three-set win in the finals of the U.S. Open. But not that it's out of the way... Here we go, Celtics!!

BTW, does anyone else find it annoying that basketball and hockey are both in the playoffs and the front page of ESPN all weekend was the NFL draft? http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-indifferent.gif

[Mookel]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by XBLirael:
I'm actually glad Miami won one. I don't like it when a team sweeps. It's like watching a three-set win in the finals of the U.S. Open. But not that it's out of the way... Here we go, Celtics!!

BTW, does anyone else find it annoying that basketball and hockey are both in the playoffs and the front page of ESPN all weekend was the NFL draft? http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-indifferent.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

That's because the NFL Draft &gt;&gt;&gt; than the first round of the NBA and NHL playoffs combined, silly girl. The NFL is the new American pastime, MLB had its moment in the sun...

[dkkiller21]

id like to say the cavs but all Ohio sports choke either on the final game or before it.

[DarkShowers]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
Ah man Dave. You'd better hold your tongue for now. Series tied 2-2!!! Hardy har! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Well, yea I'm pleasantly surprised and I hope you are right! It would be awesome if the Thunder continue to play well and upset the Lakers. We can only hope.

I'm really puzzled by what's going on in the West except for the Mavs choking which is normal for them.

[JJ Rage]

Jazz in 5, BOOK IT!

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Mookel:
the NFL Draft &gt;&gt;&gt; than the first round of the NBA and NHL playoffs combined, silly girl. The NFL is the new American pastime, MLB had its moment in the sun... </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Vomit.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Darkshowers:
It would be awesome if the Thunder continue to play well and upset the Lakers. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Seconded!

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Well, yea I'm pleasantly surprised and I hope you are right! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

My Spider senses tell me that everyone here is hoping for that.

Man, if the Bucks and Brandon Jennings continue to play like they did yesterday, they just might pull it out. CLE needs to start playing behind Lebron and close this series out and I'm really hoping that the Suns pull this one out too. Being 4-8 in their last 12 postseason appearances is lame.

[mixmastermatt]

Did you guys see the Suns curb-stomp the Blazers last night? I know they're giving me false hope, but I sure enjoyed it!

@Kaitlyn-Yeah, this is why ESPN is almost never my go-to source on sports anymore. The NFL draft is the biggest non-event ever.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

@ Darkshowers: Ya, with the way OKC played last night and how the Lakers just man-handled them around the court? It's pretty evident that OKC is just still a young team that needs to earn their battle stripes and playing at Lakers during the playoffs is sure to get them some experience. So hopefully we'll see better out of them in the future cause I think that Kevin Durant is sick.

Dallas needs to get some rhythm going and so does Denver. I'm tired of SA but I wouldn't be too disappointed if it were Utah to advance.

[XBLirael]

So I'm dying to find out what people think of this upcoming Cavs-Celtics series. Obviously, I'm cheering my heart out for the green, but I don't think there's anyone in sports nation that thinks Boston will win it.

LeBron is obviously going to be the best player on the court and Boston's bench is awful right now. But in a 5-on-5 matchup with no reserves, I would give it to Boston any day of the week. Rondo is just too good (and underappreciated). Perkins gets the edge over Shaq and Jamison. Ray Allen is hitting the threes, while Williams and West continue to be unimpressive. I'd even give an edge to KG and Big Baby over Jamison and Varejao. Pierce will just have to step it up and slow down LeBron.

I'd like the think that a four-man show can beat a one-man show, but I'm sure there are some Cleveland fans in the house that think otherwise?

And, well... you know, everyone else.

[DarkShowers]

@fortified: Hey it's Darkshowers not Darkshadows http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-surprised.gif. It seems like the Lakers are playing with some urgency and confidence now. I'm still hoping OKC can pull it off. It seems like Dallas was just playing like Dallas and I have no idea if Denver will get it together.

@Kaitlyn: Celtics are definitely underdogs again yet they were underdogs in 2008 so we'll see. May the best team win. I think this will be a close, physical series going 6 or 7 games. At the very least, I hope to see some really good, competitive games from these two teams.

[mixmastermatt]

I would think that if anyone would beat the Cavs, it'd be Boston. I dont' even think the Lakers (or anyone else out of the West) could.

[jbots]

Im a Utah girl, so I love my Jazz. Its really the only sport I watch, its fun when they get to the playoffs, although we usually dont get too far these days.

[pugjared]

Jazz are going to win it tonight at home. I think this will be a close one, probably within 5 points. The Nuggets aren't going down without a fight.

The Celtics aren't holding it together like they were when they won their last championship. I'm calling it Cavs in 6 games. They will probably end up trading some road victories in the first four games followed by 2 Cavs wins at the end.

I would love to see OKC overthrow the Lakers this year because they are a much better match-up for my Jazz. It would be similar to when Golden State dethroned Dallas in the 2007 playoffs, but that would only be the second time a #8 has won a best of seven series. Here's hoping.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by pugjared:
The Celtics aren't holding it together like they were when they won their last championship. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>I agree. But I'm also not about to write them off. If these guys turn it up and stay out of foul trouble, they could easily take the series.

On a side note, the mother of a little girl that's in my show is friends with Shaq. Like, good friends with Shaq. This came up because I know she's a Celtics fan and I told her I thought we would win because Shaq is over the hill. Oops.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

@ Darkshowers: My bad man. I just fixed it right now. But you were right about the Lakers but gosh dang it. What a good game! That sucks that they had to lose it that way but they're such a young team. That's gonna sting but that's some good reality checkage for their future.

@ Utah fans: Man, your Jazz looked good tonight! Boozer with his 22 pts. 20 boards. That guy was a beast! You guys are lookin' good going up against the Lakers. If someone's gonna knock off the Lakers, I think that the Jazz have the best shot. Phoenix or SA? I'm not as confidant about as I feel about the Jazz. SA should've been handled by the Mavs but damn those guys choke every year.

@ Everyone (except Lirael and Boston fans LOL): I hope Lebron's arm is better when he faces the Celtics. I do like the Celtics and KG is sick as hell but I'd like Lebron to bring something back to Cleveland. They're about as bad as San Diego in bringing a championship to their city.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
I hope Lebron's arm is better when he faces the Celtics. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Get out.

Oh just kidding... I have to tell you, I'm cheering for the Cavs all the way. IF they take out Boston. And judging from Saturday's game, they're in good position to do so. LeBron will be fine. He tore it up in the second half Saturday.

P.S. There's a little part of me that wants the Cavs even to beat Boston. Because I don't think Boston can beat the Lakers this year. And I do think that Cleveland can.

P.P.S. Since there's no hockey thread and no one seems to care but me... GO BRUINS!!

[pugjared]

Man, the Jazz did not show up until the fourth quarter. If they can play a whole game against the Lakers it would be great.

XBLirael, per my prediction the Celtics will win this next game and make the series exciting.

P.S. not much of a hockey fan but Bruins took out the Sabres, who are kinda my team. I'll go ahead and root for the Bruins because it's always best to have at least lost to the Champions. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-tongue.gif

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by pugjared:
I'll go ahead and root for the Bruins because it's always best to have at least lost to the Champions. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-tongue.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>True true.

Loving that the Celtics bench stepped it up last night. And Rondo is still on fire. Let's toss LeBron's MVP trophy over to that kid. It's not like LeBron was using it last night. http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

In all seriousness, though... I hope it was the Celtics defense and not LeBron's injury that kept him down last night.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Man, it was like Lebron's arm was really hitting him hard last night, and his whole team went along with it. That game was straight terrible!

Suns looked real nice last night but then again, Tony Parker didn't come in until the second quarter and the guy still scored 26 points. But the Nash, Richardson, Stoudemire show ripped SA apart. Real entertaining. But it's definitely not going to be given to anybody in that series.

The CLE-BOS series? After watching last night and how CLE played defense and their lack of at least trading points? I think BOS takes it in 6.

I'm interested in how the ORL-ATL matchups are going to be like tonight.

[Brimtown]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
I'm interested in how the ORL-ATL matchups are going to be like tonight. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>


114-71. How often does a team get spanked by nearly 50 points in the playoffs?

Nobody wants to talk about the Magic - as evidenced by this very thread. I think Orlando is trying to send a message that there are more teams in the Eastern Conference besides Cleveland and Boston.

[JJ Rage]

/slitwrist

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

@ Brimtown: I think it had to do with them having so much time off. I think if they take game 2 like they did tonight, you'll see more people talking about them. They've got a nice team but if they make it to the finals, I think that everyone's expecting them to get handled just like they did last year.

And JJ, I feel your pain. I'm kinda routing for them.

Lirael, you just might get your wishes if Lebron continues to have troubles with his arm.

[XBLirael]

Psh. Fortified, LeBron isn't having troubles with his arm. (As evidenced by Friday's massacre.) Boston is just giving the Cavs a run for their money. Sunday's game was sick. I've been complaining about Rondo not getting enough recognition for years now... I'm glad that people are finally starting to notice that he's the reason for so much of Boston's success since 2006.

Triple-double: 29 points, 18 rebounds, 13 assists! (And two steals.)

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

@ Lirael: I've thought that Rondo's been one of the best players in the NBA. He's just severely unnoticed and hasn't received the respect he deserves. He's had 50 postseason games under his belt now and has 4 triple-doubles, 4th on the all-time list. So he's definitely due much respect.

And I'm not going to take anything away from you guys. Boston played hard yesterday but with the way that the Cavs are playing, you guys should've been up at least 3-1. They're gonna have some trouble with Orlando if they win.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
They're gonna have some trouble with Orlando if they win. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Yup. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-indifferent.gif

[DarkShowers]

Come on fortified. Enough with LeQueen's elbow. I could say KG and Pierce are playing hurt which they actually are and it would be 3-1 Celtics if they were 100 percent. Of course, since it's LeElbow and he is the star of the NBA, the media is going to blow it out of proportion. Even LeBron admitted this.

It can go either way and yea Orlando is scary.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

@ Darkshowers: I know. CLE has a pretty solid team. They have no excuse either for the series being tied up. If Antwan Jameson and Mo Williams would stay consistent, this'd been a sweep. But then again, if Boston's 'D' stayed solid, this'd been a sweep. But they're both good teams.

And seriously, I like Lebron, but that guy is nothing compared to Jordan. I think that Kobe is much more pertinent to the Lakers than Lebron is to CLE. Kobe can close games out with consistent clutch. Lebron still can't get it down. Jordan had everything that Lebron and Kobe had combined and he knew how to lead his team better than the both of them, AND then some.

I really just want CLE to win cause you guys have your championships. CLE has nothing for any pro sports. You guys have hockey, baseball, basketball and football and all 4 have won championships. But that's as much hate as you'll get from me and for those specific reasons only. I like the Boston Bruins, I like the Red Sox and I like the Celtics. But seriously, I can't say the same for the Patriots. I'm sorry, but the Pats can eat poo. At least I like your other 3 teams. Can't be too generous. Haha!

My team to win the championships though, is going to have to be the Suns. Steve Nash doesn't have a championship and that guy really deserves one. He reminds me a lot of John Stockton. So you wanna favorite from me, I've put mine in. I'd rather have Steve Nash get his first rather than Lebron, and that's going to be my West Coast team too.

[mixmastermatt]

I'm disappointed that the Boston-Cleveland series is the only interesting series this round! But I was happy to see the Suns take out the Spurs like they did after the last few years.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Hell ya! I hate the Spurs!!! That was true sweet justice! I like Tim Duncan, but I hate Tony Parker and Ginubli is like a little persistent hornet.

[pugjared]

Jazz down. *sigh*

Minor consolation is they are not the only ones to get swept this round.

Fortifiedmind, don't jinx Nash into having an amazing career with no championship. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-tongue.gif

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

*snarf* http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/11.gif

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
And seriously, I like Lebron, but that guy is nothing compared to Jordan. I think that Kobe is much more pertinent to the Lakers than Lebron is to CLE. Kobe can close games out with consistent clutch. Lebron still can't get it down. Jordan had everything that Lebron and Kobe had combined and he knew how to lead his team better than the both of them, AND then some. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>After watching last night's game, I have to disagree. I mean, I don't think LeBron is as great as Jordan (or, arguably, Kobe), but I think he's actually more pertinent to Cleveland. The reason he was so exhausted last night is not because of his elbow... it's because he's playing the entire game for the Cavs. LeBron is probably wondering when some of his teammates are going to pick up the slack! (Besides Shaq, who obviously knows how to play in a playoffs game.)

Boston, on the other hand, just keeps on playing like a team. The Cavs smother Rondo, so they get the ball elsewhere. Pierce, Allen (both Allens), KG... The Cavs try to adjust, so the Cs give the ball back to Rondo.

BTW, some Rondo love from the Sports Guy:

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">THE MAGIC JOHNSON AWARD FOR "BOX-SCORE LINES THAT HAVE NO RESEMBLANCE TO ANYTHING ELSE CURRENTLY HAPPENING IN THE LEAGUE"

To Rajon Rondo, whose series-saving Game 4 against Cleveland (29 points, 18 rebounds, 13 assists, total control over the game) was a pantheon-level Celtics performance and had little in common with anything we've ever seen. Keep in mind …

• Since the 1986-87 season, only eight guards have grabbed 18-plus rebounds in ANY game (regular season or playoffs). Michael Jordan did it three times (once in the playoffs); Jason Kidd did it only once.

• Larry Bird had 69 triple-doubles but never a playoff game that looked quite like a 29-18-13. The closest: 24-17-10 (1981, Chicago), 19-16-13 (1986, Milwaukee), 25-15-11 (1986, Houston), 18-16-11 (1987, Milwaukee) and 24-18-10 (1990, New York).

• Only Oscar Robertson (1962: 32-19-13) and Wilt Chamberlain (1967: 29-36-13) had at least a 29-18-13 in a playoff game before, and in the past 40 years, only LeBron (2007: 27-13-13) and Magic (1986: 29-15-14) had at least a 25-13-13. So, um … yeah.

• If you read my basketball book, you might remember how I created a 42 Club for playoff performers who averaged 42-plus for points, rebounds and assists combined for an entire postseason (12-game minimum). According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Rondo also joined Wilt in the 60 Club for players who submitted a 60 (points, rebounds, plus assists) in one playoff game without scoring 30 points in that game. Wilt did it three times, all in 1967: 29-36-13, 24-32-13 and 16-30-19.

• For the playoffs, Rondo is averaging 17.9 PPG, 11.4 APG, 7.1 RPG and 1.9 steals. According to ESPN ace researcher Alok Pattani, only Magic Johnson ever averaged a 16-11-6-2 in the playoffs, and he did it twice: 1983 (17.9, 12.8, 8.5, 2.3) and 1984 (18.2, 13.5, 6.6, 2.0).

• We just compared Rondo to Magic, Wilt, Bird, Oscar and Jordan... legitimately. Kind of insane when you remember I was writing about him in "Rajon The Late Bloomer" terms just two springs ago. I continue to think we should dump "The Big Three" nickname and just start calling Rondo "The Big One." </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
P.S. I'm liking the Suns too.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

You could be onto something there. Let's take Lebron's 'D' and Kobe's game winning shots and compare, amongst other things. The Lakers to indeed have a much more solidified and cohesive team than CLE does as well. It'd be a tough comparison with all factors. Lebron can definitely turn the tides much more efficiently with his defense than Kobe and his clutch shots. But then again, if Lebron has to pass the ball after a steal or a block, he has to depend on his team to make the shots, which right now, are not. So you could be on to something.

[Brimtown]

Here's a few tidbits about the Magic...

Their 101 point differential in their sweep against the Hawks is the largest margin of victory in NBA history.

The Magic are 27-3 since March 1st. That stretch includes 18 playoff opponents. During that time, they've outscored their opposition by 421 points. The Lakers, Suns, and Celtics did not outscore their opposition by that many points over the entire season.

Still, I'm being very cautiously optimistic about Orlando.

[mixmastermatt]

The Hawks were a disgrace. If any sports team I liked clearly quit on the floor as they did, they wouldn't be my team anymore. It's one thing to be bad (or bested), it's quite another to give no effort.

P.S. E-high-five to Kaitlyn! Suns vs. Celtics Finals?

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Brimtown:
The Lakers, Suns, and Celtics did not outscore their opposition by that many points over the entire season. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Ha! That's because the Celtics were AWFUL for half the season. In all seriousness, though... the Magic are looking fantastic and I'm eager to see their next series... no matter who they end up playing.

P.S. E-high-five right back to ya, Matt! Loving my C's!! http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif

[FredEx919]

Anyone picking the Celtics to win tonight??

[Brimtown]

So it looks like Magic vs Celtics in the ECF. Even though Orlando will have home-court advantage, I think Boston will give them a tougher fight than the Cavs would have. I still think the Magic take the series, but won't be a sweep.

[DarkShowers]

I'm pretty excited about the way the Celtics played this series.

It's only going to get tougher now with the Magic with HCA and a more balanced offense.

Go Celtics!!!

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

I'll give you support. I'm wanting the Suns-Celtics Finals. This has been a great basketball season.

[DarkShowers]

http://pdashmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/LeKnick.jpg

[XBLirael]

I kind of feel bad for LeBron. I know he wanted to win a championship for his hometown. But I think now it's gotten to the point where he just wants to win a championship. So many fans last night taunting "New York Knicks" every time LBJ stepped up to the free throw line.

But... that's about all the pity I've got left in me. Because the Celtics are on a roll! They're gonna need every scrap of fight they've got to get past Orlando. But if Rondo and KG keep playing like they are, it'll be an epic series!

I pick Celtics in 7.

P.S.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
The CLE-BOS series? After watching last night and how CLE played defense and their lack of at least trading points? I think BOS takes it in 6. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Well done.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Ha! I guess what I say doesn't cause jinxes!

With that being said, I'm not saying anything for these up coming series cause this is gonna be like a couple of well balanced pit bulls at eachothers' throats. Not to put harmful cruel images of Michael Vick in people's heads. Just a simile folks. But these championship series are gonna be some great entertainment.

[Brimtown]

The Orlando Sentinel did a good position-by-position comparison (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/magic-celtics-position-by-position-20100514,0,4178184.story) between the Magic and Celtics. Here's a brief overview...

Point Guard: Rajon Rondo vs Jameer Nelson. Edge: even

Shooting Guard: Ray Allen vs Vince Carter. Edge: Orlando, slight edge

Small Forward: Paul Pierce vs Matt Barnes. Edge: Boston, slight edge

Power Forward: Kevin Garnett vs Rashard Lewis. Edge: Boston, slight edge

Center: Kendrick Perkins vs Dwight Howard. Edge: Orlando - no contest here


Should be a great series. With the exception of Dwight Howard, these teams appear to be pretty evenly matched.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Brimtown:
Point Guard: Rajon Rondo vs Jameer Nelson. Edge: even </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Blah. I think Rondo has the edge here, even with Nelson healthy and playing the way he has this postseason. Rondo has kicked it up big time, is moving the ball better, is driving into the paint better, and is going to really frustrate Nelson during the next week.

I agree with everything else. One thing that yesterday's game exposed, though... the Celtics don't need Perkins to match up to Howard. They've got Big Baby and 'Sheed on the bench, who can afford to foul out and help Perk keep DH stifled.

I think Orlando can win the series if they just exhaust Boston, as they did toward the end of the game yesterday. The smothering defense is bound to take its toll on Pierce, Garnett, Allen, and Perkins, who are all grappling with injuries. But that's the only way Orlando is going to beat this Celtics lineup.

P.S. Go Suns!

[Brimtown]

I was cautiously optimistic about the Magic, but I have to say that I have a bad feeling about this. I've seen this far too many times. It was the same way when we had Shaq along with a bunch of perimeter shooters. Strategy was the same then as it is now. Wear down the big man, and hope the long-range shooters have a bad night. Once the rhythm is broken up, it's difficult to regain it.

So now I think the Celtics will sweep the Magic, 4-0.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Brimtown:
I was cautiously optimistic about the Magic, but I have to say that I have a bad feeling about this. I've seen this far too many times. It was the same way when we had Shaq along with a bunch of perimeter shooters. Strategy was the same then as it is now. Wear down the big man, and hope the long-range shooters have a bad night. Once the rhythm is broken up, it's difficult to regain it.

So now I think the Celtics will sweep the Magic, 4-0. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-sad.gif Really? You think so? They looked really good in the fourth quarter on Sunday. I don't think the Celtics are going to manage a sweep. Orlando was too strong for too long to just give up... Like the Cavs did. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-indifferent.gif

[mixmastermatt]

Man, I can't stand the Lakers! That being said, I'm thinking it's going to be Lakers-Celtics in the Finals. I'll have no problems rooting for the C's then.

I think the Magic will give them a good series. I wouldn't be surprised if it goes 6 or 7 games. Suns-Lakers may go 5, if the Suns can do everything right just one game.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Again, I aint sayin' nuttin'! It's only game 1 and teams that did crappy in game 1 that're supposed to be really good, always bounce back. Maybe not always from both conferences but this year could be different. You've got 4 really great teams in there. But then again, Lakers and the Celtics in the conference championships? Indeed they taste blood and they're bringin' it to the core now, but still I wouldn't quit on the Magic and the Suns just after game 1. Let's watch and see. I say both series get taken to game 7.

[Brimtown]

Having been a Magic fan since their inaugural year back in '89, I've been burned far too many times. When they're good, they're good, as we saw at the end of the regular season and the first two rounds of the playoffs. When they're bad, they have a tendency to collapse. I'm hoping that they'll pull it out. However, Boston is looking really good right now, and if the Magic lose tonight, I don't think they'll beat the Celtics on the road.

It's always worried me whenever a team relies so heavily on the 3-pointer. When they're raining down, a team can be unstoppable. However, when a team relies so much on the perimeter game, it's usually because they have to - they don't really have too many players that can take it to the basket. Dwight Howard is that man for Orlando. Just like when Shaq was playing for the Magic, teams figured out they could just keep fouling him and sending him to the free throw line. That's fine and dandy when your other guys are making their outside shots. But when those shots aren't falling quite so well, it's that much harder to win.

[vG_LethaLAMA]

All of you Cleveland fans can say goodbye to "The King". He is so ready to leave that cursed city. I do feel bad that your next hope for a professional championship is ..... The Browns...

[Brimtown]

I called it. There's a reason why we refer to the Magic as the "Tragic" here in Orlando. Stick a fork in them, they're done.

The difference between Orlando and Cleveland is that we don't have an NFL or MLB team to suffer through. But we do have my college alma mater, UCF, which always seems to veer between pure suckage to teasing on the brink of being good but never quite getting there.

[DarkShowers]

Great game by the Celtics tonight!! Again, they almost gave it up in the 4th but held the Magic and won.

The Magic are in a tough spot but they could still come back. They have quite a bit of talent on that team. Their shooters have been cold up to this point.

[XBLirael]

I thought I was going to cry when Dwight Howard missed those two free throws. I love seeing the Celtics win, but not like that.

The rest of the game was fantastic, though. I won't bother praising Rajon Rondo, since I'm starting to sound like a broken record.

Brim, that sucks. I hope they don't just collapse. I think they have a shot to beat Boston at home... the Celtics had a terrible record at home this year. The Garden just ain't the Garden anymore. You're right though... the Magic just doesn't have the offense right now to get through this Boston defense.

I'm with Matt: it's going to be another Lakers-Celtics final.

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Ah come on guys. I wouldn't give up on the Magic that quick. Yes, they do have their backs against the wall but they did good. But here's why they lost.

Vince Carter was 5-5 on his FT's up until that last set and he missed BOTH? Buckled in the clutch. Then Howard. How the hell does the big man, who's got great form in his shot, miss 7 or 8 FT's? How do you do that in a championship game? That was obviously the kicker. They had it, they tried but couldn't cash in on the free shots. In close games, you HAVE to hit your free throws and they choked when the opportunity arose to take a semi-comfy lead.

Other than that, they did good. They had JJ Red**** that was coming off the bench and giving the Celtics something different to have to deal with. Not stellar, but he was doing the best penetrating and dishing the ball out when the Celtics were vulnerable. If they could cash in on that technique, they could come back in this. But I might be like 75% with you guys on the pessimism. But I have some optimism. I just really hope the Suns whoop that LA booty today.

(And OMFG, this censorship thing is ridiculous if I have to get a part of someone's name censored. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/34.gif Ubisoft Censorship)

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
(And OMFG, this censorship thing is ridiculous if I have to get a part of someone's name censored. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/34.gif Ubisoft Censorship) </div></BLOCKQUOTE> http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/88.gif Poor J.J. Red****!

And you know what, <STRIKE>Red****</STRIKE> J.J. might not have been awesome last night, but I liked what I saw. And... he didn't miss his free throws. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-indifferent.gif

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Seriously, if they can't nail their FT's, your's and Dave's Celtics are gonna have a cake walk in this series. *Magic* http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/crackwhip.gif

[Brimtown]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
Then Howard. How the hell does the big man, who's got great form in his shot, miss 7 or 8 FT's? How do you do that in a championship game? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>


Dwight Howard has always been a horrible free throw shooter. That's why teams know they can just keep hacking and fouling away at him. Better to send him to the free throw line than to give up the easy basket. It was the same thing when Shaq was here.

[pugjared]

Jeebus it has been fun to watch Rondo play. It's looking like a Lakers v Celtics finals rematch. That should be a lot of fun to watch.

I should now take back my comments about Boston not looking like a championship team. They have really pulled it together.

I feel bad for Orlando. Dwight Howard is one of those players that I would like to see win a championship someday.

And, come on Suns! Bring it to those L.A. punks will yah?!

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by pugjared:
Jeebus it has been fun to watch Rondo play. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/25.gif

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

@ Brimtown: Well, you got me there. My offensive stats have me at a vulnerability this time. I checked his stats, and I could have sworn up and down that he missed 7-8 on Tuesday. But he only ended up missing 5. He made 12-17 on Tuesday and 7-12 on Sunday. So that's actually statiscally better than his career average. Sunday slightly but still. I guess I shouldn't give him that hard of a time. So indeed I stand corrected.

Now that I look at the stats now though, the Magic actually killed themselves in FG%. Boston shot 45.9% and ORL only 39.4%. They did make 76.3% of their FT's compared to Boston's 78.6%, which isn't that great of a margin. ORL actually out-rebounded Boston but I think Boston just sunk more of their shots and ORL couldn't cash in on their opportunities on rebounds and missed shots for fouls. They did indeed buckle in the clutch with those last few FT's that could have very well won the game for them. They just need to find some consistency but overall, statistically they're hangin' in there with BOS. They just have to learn to cash in on their opportunities and this should turn out to be an exciting series. But if they can't, I smell sweep if they can't handle the pressure IN Boston. They sure showed they can't handle it at home.

[DarkShowers]

I just found out I'm going to Game 3 Celtics/Magic tonight. Nice!

[Brimtown]

I called the Celtics sweep right after the first game. I've seen this from the Magic far too often over the past 20 years. When they fall, they tend to fall hard. They rely far too heavily on perimeter shooting, and when that isn't working, they don't win.

[XBLirael]

@Dark: That's awesome! Did you have a blast? (Despite it being a blowout?)

@Brim: Sorry. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-indifferent.gif

P.S. Go Suns!

[Brimtown]

Well the Magic surprised me and pulled out a win. So if nothing else, at least we avoid the sweep.

[DarkShowers]

@Kaitlyn: I had a great time even though it was a blowout because I thought Orlando was going to win a close game. Turns out they actually gave up in the 3rd quarter and the Celtics dominated them. Rondo had that amazing hustle play and there was great intensity throughout the game from the crowd and team along with premature Beat LA chants.

http://i868.photobucket.com/albums/ab243/darkshowers/Celtics%20vs%20Magic%20Playoffs%202010/Picture017.jpg

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Man, you guys are so lucky to be able to go to hometown games. I could go to a Lakers game. Even though I don't really like them, they are fun to watch sometimes and it would be kind of interesting.

The Magic had their backs against the wall and they showed just how they should've been playing the first 3 games. This is ridiculous to be down 3-1 like this. They need to start JJ Red****. That guy had the 3's goin. And Howard needs to take control for the rest of the series like he did tonight.

But Glenn Davis on BOS was freekin' amazing off the bench. That guy's 'D' was ridiculous and he did have a couple of fouls that were bogus against him. With good agile big guys like him and Perkins and then a sick 6th man like Rasheed Wallace. It's hard to say who I want to win out of this series.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
It's hard to say who I want to win out of this series. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>If you can't decide, I advise you to just cheer for Boston. http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Brim, I'm glad I know at least once person that's a Magic fan. It made last night's loss more acceptable. I actually love J.J. and have been a fan of his since Duke. Such a pretty free throw shooter and outside man. So, it was good to see him with some great minutes. @fortified, I agree that they should start that kid. He's just too awesome.

I thought Orlando did an awesome job shutting down Rondo last night with all those double screens, and playing aggressively to get him into early foul trouble. I think the rest of the series is going to be a lot more interesting! Good coaching by van Gundy last night.

@Dark... I am so jealous that you were at game 3. Thanks for linking the awesome pic!!

[XBLirael]

I'm tired of the Artest fans barfing about his amazing buzzer-beater. You know, the one that he wouldn't have had to make if L.A. hadn't blown a 16-point lead? (Or the last two games.)

Meanwhile, I'm upset about the horrendous officiating in the Magic-Celtics series. I think the games would have still ended up as they did, but I would rather give credit to Orlando than feel like the games are clouded by these awful calls. Here's hoping we see an end to it tonight!

[DarkShowers]

http://studiolozano.com/blog/2008/0709_BeatLA/1.jpg

Beat LA!! I need to go out and get the 2010 version. It doesn't get any better than Celtics/Lakers. This will definitely be a tough matchup for Celts but I didn't think they would make it past Lebron/Cleveland or the Magic but they proved me wrong. Go Celtics!

[Fidget_FD]

Not a fan of either but I don't like the Lakers at all sooooo, GO Celtics!!!

[xHOODLUMGIRLSx]

Lakers for the WIN! I use to be obsessed with them!

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Darkshowers:
I didn't think they would make it past Lebron/Cleveland or the Magic but they proved me wrong. Go Celtics! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Exactly. They might keep surprising us! I can't wait for the finals to start!!! (BTW, nice jacket!)

And thanks for your support, Fidget. I'm not too proud to take all the anti-Lakers fans on our side! http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

It's gonna be a tough battle, though. I see Kobe coming out strong and Boston too tired to handle him as they did in '08. (Especially with Artest smothering Pierce.) I've gotta go with my boys, though. Celtics in 6, baby!

[XBLirael]

http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif <span class="ev_code_GREEN">GO CELTICS!!</span> http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif

[pugjared]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by XBLirael:
http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif <span class="ev_code_GREEN">GO CELTICS!!</span> http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
<span class="ev_code_GREEN">STAY CELTICS!!</span>
Playing with words and rooting for the Celtics.

[X-Jen]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by XBLirael:
http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif <span class="ev_code_GREEN">GO CELTICS!!</span> http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yeah!! I think they just won that last game. How many more are left? :S (I have not been watching)

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Rajon Rondo = 5th career post season triple double = Very humble hard playing possible future hall of famer if he has the drive and endurance to stay healthy. Straight awesome!

[XBLirael]

@fortified: You just posted that because you knew I'd come in here after last night's sweet victory. Be honest. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-tongue.gif

Another great game from Rondo. Love watching good point guards play. He sees the court and moves the ball so well. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/heart.gif And Ray Allen with a record-breaking 8 three-pointers... guess that wasn't bad either.

Series is even at 1-1. It's a best out of 7. Jen, that means that if Boston can win the next three games, the series will finish in Boston. Otherwise, they'll have to wrap it up in game six or seven in L.A.

IMPORTANT QUESTION: if there's a game six, where will Kaitlyn watch the game? Hint: I will be in L.A. for E3!!

[FoRTiFiedMinD]

Of course. That and I'm just trying to butter you up to try and entice you to work some baseball in that busy schedule of yours as well. haha! http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

And like you said, they didn't have an answer.....EDIT: I don't think anyone in the history of basketball could of had an answer to Ray Allen's hotness last night. That was the official definition of "he's on fire"! And it's the Finals! It's so awesome to be able to watch someone, a pro, to be smiling up and down the court like he was smiling, having fun during an NBA Finals game, down 1-0 in the series. That was classic.

[XBLirael]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
Of course. That and I'm just trying to butter you up to try and entice you to work some baseball in that busy schedule of yours as well. haha! http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif </div></BLOCKQUOTE>Ha! I'm keeping up with the Sox, at least. And the blown calls. Perfect games, KGJ retiring, etc. Just not much else. And not enough time to comment. For now!!

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fortifiedmind:
It's so awesome to be able to watch someone, a pro, to be smiling up and down the court like he was smiling, having fun during an NBA Finals game, down 1-0 in the series. That was classic. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>So true. It is, after all, a basketball game. And games are supposed to be fun. (Loved Doc Rivers bursting off the sidelines for that timeout. That was classic. http://forums.ubi.com/images/smilies/16x16_smiley-very-happy.gif

[pugjared]

My condolences Celtics fans. I really wanted to see them pull out a win. Unfortunately, their performance in the final stretch was very disappointing.

[DarkShowers]

They turned 80 years old right before our eyes!!

Grrrrrr..... http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif http://forums.ubi.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif I'm still upset about it!