NBA '08 Playoff Thread

I'm going for the one everyone in the world doesn't want to see -- Spurs v. Pistons. And I'm not sure if it's because we've all seen it before, or you all hate defense, but there it is. It's not really as much a want, but it's what I think is going to actually happen.

Also, Boobie, I threw Maxiell in there because he started a handful of games in the Philly series I think. And it was after McDyess had been healed. But for all intents and purposes, I think McDyess will be the matchup. Perkins isn't terrible, I think if he works hard he'll pose some problems down there at least as far as the glass is concerned.

 

Fair enough, I just felt like it skewed things. Of course those two would get the edge over Perk. But I think either one in a 1-on-1 and the series won't exactly hinge on the matchup. The other four are so great. Rondo and Billups play completely opposite, Hamilton and Allen play completely the same, Pierce and Prince play completely different and Wallace and Garnett are the two most talented players, their games are similar in some ways and different in others and their mindset is completely different. This is going to be an interesting series, but everyone will just complain because the games won't be 140-136.

 

If Rondo can hold his own againt Billups, the Celtics have a chance.

I'm just guessing Billups will not forget who gave up on him so soon, and destroy the poor kid or old man they have going against him.

 

If the Spurs look as old as they did against the Hornets, the Lakers probably will win. But that's the thing about the Spurs, they can look old, but they still win. I had no idea Robert Horry had seven rings. He's a gamer.

 

I'm probably leaning toward the Lakers, too ... but, does anybody here *really* trust the likes of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom in a big-game situation? Because I sure as hell don't.

 

I hear you, brother. And that's not just my "everyone's against us" Pistons fanboi talking. Honestly though, last season when they fell to Cleveland I simply tipped my cap and said, wow, LeBron's a badass they deserved to win. When they lost to San Antonio several years ago -- same thing (insert Duncan, Parker, Manu). But when they lost to fat ass and D-Flop -- combined with what I saw in the Finals that year -- I literally almost stopped watching the NBA for good. I was that disgusted.
I think most of the series' this year have been handled pretty well by the officials, and while I would never put a ref conspiracy beyond this league, I don't see it happening. We're going to have the best four teams in the league (and no one who has watched the NBA all season can deny that) go after the final two spots. Should be good.

 

Did you give your breakdown on the positional match-ups you posed?

And what's your series prediction?

 

Boobie, I think McDyess has a significant advantage because of experience and his capability to make a shot outside of five feet. I just think McDyess is far more dependable than Perkins. That's just my opinion, though.

 

I don't really disagree that McDyess is a better player than Perkins. I just think that at the end of the day that matchup won't have a major impact on the series. I imagine they'll each put up similar numbers. I think the other four matchups are outstanding though. I really believe that Ray Allen will bounce back in this series, 15+ points tonight.

 

This has been a great first half. A little "prettier" than I expected; guys are making shots. I never realized until this year that Garnett was such a good jump shooter, all the way to just short of 3-point range. His touch has been on display this half.

 

Just got back from covering a stupid baseball game ... things look about what I expected. And in reference to my predictions on the matchups:
1. Billups
2. Hamilton
3. I think Prince's defense makes this a push ... that and he's underrated on the offensive end because he's so awkward to guard.
4. Garnett -- Great matchup, but this is the one where I think Boston has the hands down advantage.
5. I'll go with McDyess over Perkins. His outside jumper is vastly underrated and he'll be able to draw another big out of the paint.
If both Wallace and McDyess are sticking those 12 to 15 footers with consistency, that could pose a HUGE problem for Boston.

My pick: It all hinges on Game 1, because I think if Detroit wins then this thing could end a lot quicker than everyone thought. But I want a good, long series -- they're more fun. I'll go Pistons in 7.

 

Wow Ray Allen to the hole -- has he looked like he gives a shit for this one?

Detroit flipping the switch on Boston and racking up the foul shots on the road -- that's an interesting, and somewhat impressive stat.