So here we go with about 20 or so games left in the season, but the stronger teams are beginning to make some ground over the weaker teams. Yes, there is still a lot of basketball to be played but let's see what we have to look forward too, shall we?!!
Yep, starting with the Nuggets. Right now they hold the 5 seed, behind San Antonio, Oklahoma City, the LA Clippers, and Memphis. Denver has proven to be very difficult to beat at home, and atrocious on the road. If they want to make it past the first round, they have to win more games on the road, and have to secure that home court advantage. The division isn't out of reach, but OKC is the reigning conference champs. Denver has got to stop letting their opponents stay in the game. Too many times this season did they blow a lead to lose, or win a close game. Wilson Chandler needs to be starting. Whether that is over Gallinari, or Iguodala, Chandler needs to be on the starting five. You can make a case for Gallo, he can score, but is not consistent enough. Iguodala is good on defense, but can't seem to find his comfort zone in the offense You can't airball 2 free throws in one half and expect to keep your starting job, especially with his lack of offense. Starting Chandler can only help, it may help with the pace as well.
The Clippers are playing well over their expectations, Chauncey's leadership is paying off there! Griffen, Paul, and DeAndre Jordan have found a good balance with their veterans, Grant Hill, Billups, even Lamar Odom is getting in on it. They could pull of an upset in the playoffs. The team I think to look out for in the west is Golden State. They have a history of pulling off upsets, and I could see their youth getting past San Antonio. They hired Marc Jackson for a reason, and he is known for showing results. Houston could make it a good series with whoever they end up playing, but I don't think they have the defense to go to the 2nd round.
I can see the Nuggets vs. the Thunder in the western conference finals, there I'm calling it.
In the East, the Heat are proving why they are the champs, and without Derek Rose in Chicago, it;s gonna be hard to stop them. Melo and the Knicks match up well against them, and that is going to be a fun series to watch. Brooklyn is still building, Indiana is terrible on the road, and Boston is old and without Rondo, arguably the best player on the team, no match for Miami. If Derek Rose can make it back (highly unlikely) for the playoffs, then he could change the aspect, but he also didn't play all season. He needs more time to feel comfortable again, and the Bulls are willing to wait. So, I can see the Knicks vs. the Heat in the eastern conference finals. There, I'm calling it.
Should be exciting!! Shua out!
nba.com
No comments:
Post a Comment