Game 6 - Western Conference Finals

We're headed to The Finals!

This was a shockingly easy close-out game. The Lakes solved the Denver riddle and exposed them (again) as very weak defenders. And, when they couldn't make enough baskets to hang with the Lakers, the Nugs rolled over pretty easy.

Now, time to clear room on the bandwagon. Have already started to hear it. Good times.

Of course, with Superman coming to town, the Finals are shaping up to be a GREAT series. A Kobe/Lebron series would have inevitably focused on the two superstars going solo against each other. However, we should remind that the Lakers a VERY good team and so is Orlando. Watching the Magic swing the ball and end up with a easy flush for Dwight Howard TIME AFTER TIME against the Cavs should provide any motivation, if needed.

I've been hearing Lakers in 5 max. I'm going to say it goes seven and Lakers prevail at home, proving, yet again, how important home court is in the NBA.

Game 5 - Western Conference Finals

A spicy little number to encourage the home crowd. Interesting little tetes all over the place. But, after watching a highlight reel, I'd have to agree that the Shannon Brown dunk is the best. Bad pass by Nugs main guy, a SEVEN FOOTER leading the break for the Lakers, and Brown flushing with authority over the Nuggets only effective defender. All good and wrap this series.

Interesting post from SG about refs but he missed an obvious solution - put more refs on the floor. They wouldn't have to exert as much energy to be in the right spot so calls are better. More eyes on the floor decreases the number of missed calls. And, a dilution effect would help smooth out "philosophical" differences in whistle style. I still think the downside is lack of competent officials. But, the SG's call for a serious NBA Officials Training Camp would fix that.

I've a feeling that this one is still going seven games. Each game has been so tight (Game 4 included) that its unlikely Lakers close it in six. With the historical trend against road teams in a 7th game, the Nuggets are in trouble. Either way, they will be VERY feisty in Game 6. My over/under for ejections is 2.5.

Can't wait.

Game 2/3/4 - Western Conference Finals

This is a combo (and long) post as I caught the games on the fly during a FANtastic trip to the Oregon Coast.

Game 2, obviously, was a bummer. But, the officiating in that game set the tone for the Colorado games. Allegedly, these guys are the best. Officials: Steve Javie, Dick Bavetta, Marc Davis. But, they blew it on a basic technical issue - NOT a judgment call. On the late game tip, JR Smith flashed across Ariza's line of sight BEFORE THE BALL IS TOUCHED. This is a violation. Bavetta blew it BIG time.

And, then the (failed) judgment call. When a guy has the ball and a defender puts two hands in his back and PUSHES HIM TO THE FLOOR, that's a foul. But, they called it traveling (I guess). NBA officials are so far underwater. There has to be a better way...

@sportsguy33 What about getting the NBA to put 5 refs on the floor? Or would it be impossible to get enough qualified refs?

Seriously, why not? Put enough guys out there so that every position can be monitored, especially in the lane and under the basket. I think the only downside to this is truly finding enough qualified people.

Game 3, once again obviously, was sweet redemption. Again a lot of chippy stuff from the Nuggets. But, the Lakers responded and Kobe Diem brought the win. Those free throws at the end demonstrated that its still Mamba, BronBron, D-Wade, in that order, until he retires.

Game 4, was pathetic. Read TJ Simers diatribe (would love to hear the interchanges first hand) and he almost gets it. What PJ meant is that the Lakers were trying to respond to the Nugs energy (and were doing a good job) but each time a close call came up, it went the Nugs way. When you're on the road, fighting a good team, a heated home crowd and 3 (incompetent) officials, it can be "difficult". The fact that they had a realistic chance with 2 minutes left tells you this. But, a few missed shots, a couple bad calls, and a few showboats later, you have a 19 point loss.

This much I know, JR Smith will not make it out of LA alive if he tries those antics on Wednesday. Glad to hear that Jones got busted for his asinine tripping of Kobe. Once again, how is that not called? Kobe's got a spotlight on him EVERY play and the guy trips him at the top of the key IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FLOOR. Hey Ken Mauer, Bill Spooner, and Bennett Salvatore, what exactly were you looking at? Clearly, not the obvious flagrant foul committed right in front of you.

And, then the (obviously not a) flagrant on Bynum. This was a game changer. Instead of an iffy pair of freebies and a chance to get to single digits, the Nugs get 2 PLUS the ball. This is bad. When the league "fixes" this insanity, how is the momentum returned to the Lakers? That truly bogus call swung the game squarely back to Denver. Who knows what happens if he misses those two, Lakers bomb a 3 and JR Smith self-combusts rather than hitting those 3's? Well, apparently what happens is the NBA nails the affected team's coach for 25 large while saying "oops".

I'm wondering now who's going to be choking on the whistles in Game 5. I must admit that this is the first time I've been truly concerned about which ref is calling the game. If Wunderlich is anywhere near downtown LA, there will be serious problems.

I'm beginning to understand what Mark Cuban was saying. The Nuggets actually are the lesser team and they are trying to make up for it by being overly physical - not just w/Lakers, plus previously with the Mavs and in the regular season. Houston got quite far playing that kind of game. Its up to the Lakers to respond appropriately - not by cheap shots but by playing an aggressive, efficient game. We'll see if they can.

Game 1 - Western Conference Finals

Really REALLY liked that game. It would have been better to not get in an early hole. But, the Lakes took the Nugs early energy and responded well. I think the Nuggets are in trouble. That was their best chance to steal a game and they crumpled.

Fish hitting shots, Ariza stealing passes, and Kobe driving hard. All good! I think I'm going to stick with my Lakers in 7 prediction. Even PJ was on his game. The early Kobe on Billups and late Kobe on Melo is a coup (hopefully KB24 can keep this pace). Then the "intentional" foul with <6s, no Denver TOs, and up by 3 strategy - JVG about popped a gasket praising that decision. Furious George is in WAY over his head.

Expecting an easy Game 2 win and then some INTeresting games in CO. Can't wait.

Getting a kick out of Laker Tweetville. @kaj33 tweets, @jeaniebuss tweets, then they get retweeted by @miketrudell. Fun to watch.

Game 7 - Western Semi-finals

Now, the (Lakerdom) world is back to normal (again). Just a great day of basketball. Lakes had an EASY time against a weak Houston squad and the Celtics got punk'd at home. Can't get any better.

Its funny watching the media rip the Lakers. I'm still looking for a columnist that brings something other than venom to the scene. At least there is the "from wire reports" angle to give us something straight.

Now, onto the Western Conference Finals. We're expecting a VERY entertaining series. Denver is a great up-tempo squad. I see this going 7 games. Though, truth be told, it could very easily be over in 4. But, much different matchups in this series favoring the Lakers overall.

A quick tale of the tape:

PG - Billups v. Fish - advantage (slight) for Denver. Lakers have better depth though (who is the Denver backup PG again?) and Fish will be able to stay with Billups.

SG - Jones v. KB24 - no contest. I had to go to ESPN to remind myself who starts at 2 for the Nugs. I say Jones gets tossed from at least two of the games.

SF - Melo v. Ariza - advantage (on offense) for Denver and (huge) advantage on defense for the Lakers. This matchup is closer than it might appear. Melo plays ZERO defense and can be "coaxed" into sticky ball, much like Ron-Ron. But, Melo is much stronger on O than Artest. So, while this is close to a toss-up, we'll give it to Denver. If Ariza can stay consistent with the outside shot (50% against Houston and 61% against Utah), then Lakes should be able to mitigate the Melo Effect.

PF - KMart v. Gasol - no contest. I love KMart's game - aggressive and attacking. But, he got KILLED by Dirk. Pau should easily exploit KMart's (lack of) size and (over) aggressive nature, which will allow Lakers biggest matchup to swing their way.

C - Nene v. Bynum - advantage to Lakers. Nene has been playing great ball. But, Bynum has the length and quickness to counter Nene's offense. When the Lakers have the ball, Nene will be spending a LOT of time helping KMart with Gasol. That will give Bynum MANY free looks. If he brings the same (home) energy to this series, twill be a short series.

Coach - Karl v. Jackson - um, next! Get Furious George some more candy.

Intangiles - Nuggets v. Lakers - advantage (duh) Lakers...

Denver Nuggets -
Championships: 0
Last Championship: Never won title
Last Season: Lost in Western Conference first round

Los Angeles Lakers -
Championships: 14 (5 as Minneapolis Lakers)
Last Championship: 2002
Last Season: Lost in NBA Finals

Can't wait. And, how soon til the Lakers can tender Ron-Ron the mid-level vet contract?

Game 6 - Western Semi-finals

Wow. Just wow. When you come out flat and then see what a horrific officiating crew can do, no wonder you end up in a big hole. But 21-3? Wow. I must say though that they fought back and made a game of it, even with nothing from Fish, Odom, and Bynum. I like that they showed some fight.

Now, about the refs. Seriously, there is no legitimate reason for Mark Wunderlich to referring any NBA game, let alone a playoff game. Gross incompetence! You gotta think that the fix is in. After the Donaghy fiasco, how can anyone allow this blatant corruption go on. At least we can do away with those Lebron/Kobe conspiracy theories.

Well, on to Game 7. I'm a little disappointed they didn't finish them off in 6. But, no one said the Rockets would be an easy out. LO has to get right fast or KMart is going to kill him. If one argues that the small quick guards give the Lakes trouble, then Denver will be a good match-up for them. We'll see.

Game 5 - Western Semi-finals

Now, THAT is what I'm talking about. Sweet precision resulting in a resounding victory. The Lakes took the Rockets early emotion, channeled it in the last half of the 1st quarter, then pounded them for the remainder of the game.

So many positives come from this game. Renewal for Bynum, rest for Odom, restored attacking from Kobe. The Rockets have a tall task in front of them for Thursday. If the Lakers bring ANY of this confidence to Texas, its all over. We're hoping that Dallas shows up tonight and can extend that series (really, it should be 2-2 right now).

Ok. Can't make it through a post without wondering why Apple is still playing. Why not split those minutes tween Kobe (with SB at the two) and Lamar? I can't even imagine the explosiveness of a Kobe, Trevor, Lamar, Pau, Andrew lineup. Sub-in Shannon Brown to check the quicker guards. This would allow Trevor, Kobe and Lamar to take turns beating up on Melo and then Lebron. Easy pickings but getting WAY too far ahead of things.

For now, let's look for a strong start - the team to lead at end of 1st has won each game. That's a good goal for now.

Ciao.

Game 4 - Western Semi-finals

What a pathetic effort. Hope this is an anomaly. Clearly, the Lakes felt like a split was enough. And, from our vantage, this loss wasn't unexpected - too much emotion for the Rockets. And, as feared, a lackluster start by the Lakers dug a (too) deep hole. Ah well.

The energy in the 4th was encouraging. The injury to Odom is not. Let's hope he comes back quick because Bynum is bringing nothing to this series.

Blah - that's it. Can't/Won't say anymore. Tuesday can't come soon enough.

Game 3 - Western Semi-finals

Ah! The world is back to normal. This game is, I think, a true reflection of these two teams. The emotion/rust has worn off and now they're playing about the way they should.

We'll see some interesting arguments about whether the Lakes are better with Farmar starting or not. I normally tend to agree with Mark Jackson. However, he is NOT the best point in this series. He did have a solid game. Nice to see and hope it carries over not matter how they play him in the remaining games.

I must admit that I've completely lost what little I had for Apple Turnover (aka Luke Walton). I continue to be amazed when he contributes to the team. He is very expensive for a back-up and can't make it as a starter. What do you do with him?

Felt bad for Artest. No way was that F2. Seems like over-reaction by referees based on Game 2. Too bad. Can't wait for the conspiracy guys to dredge that one.

I am LOVING the Vujacic/Wafer sub-plot. Two guys barely involved in his team's success just squaring off the entire time they're on the floor. Great stuff. I'm suspecting that if Sasha hadn't whacked him on the head Von would have gotten the offensive call. He basically did the same as D Fish but had the ball. If Sasha had just crumpled to the floor in the fetal position, he could have drawn the same F2 that Scola did.

Man, I hope Kupchak (Kup Check!!) figures out a way to get Ron-Ron into the Forum Blue and Gold next year!

Game 2 - Western Semi-finals

WOW! Lots of "physicality" in this one. We knew the Lakes would come out firing. While I don't condone violence, I'm glad that they responded to the Rockets rough tactics. It will be interesting to see if any additional penalties are handed out.

By the way Ron, you had your FOREARM jammed into Kobe's neck. Don't forget that when you're crying about a "wayward" elbow. If you're going to get physical, you can't whine when it comes back to you. Gotta think if Kobe gets pinched, then Ron-Ron rushing at THE marquee player in the NBA with venom in his eyes should draw something too.

By the way Luis, how much do you weigh? You have to be a LOT lighter than you look to go down that hard from a little tap from tiny Derek Fisher. If Fish is held out for next game, I don't see that as a big loss. At this point, his main contribution is "veteran experience". Jordan and Shannon seemed to have figured out how to play Brooks/Lowry.

Lost in the hoopla is 2 repeats from the 1st round - Lamar Odom is MUCH better for the Lakes as a starter right now. And, Yao is disappearing after a great Game 1. Rockets wont sweep at home this time though.

In the Big Picture, this is a good series. Rocks don't have enough to take Lakes in 7 games (remember it will be over in 6 anyway) but do have enough to challenge the Lakes "manhood". Denver series should be a vacation after this and Lakes will be ready for Cavs - who wont be tested til Orlando/Boston come to town (and maybe not even then).

Ciao.

Game 1 - Western Semi-finals

Disappointing...but luckily I couldn't see it. Seriously, does Sager look at the stuff the costumer brings him and say "Nope. That one isn't loud enough!" I'm really glad we didn't see the shoes. I might have had permanent eye damage.

And that, folks, is the best of what happened in Game 1.

True, the Lakers had a shot (and the lead in the 4th). I'm not too worried about the series. No way will the Rockets burn that good in the rest of this series. And, the Lakers have a LOT more left than the Blazers did. Lots of nice props for Rick Adelman (who I normally like a lot) but he can't hold a candle to PJ. There will be some nice drama and good ratings for the series. But, I said Lakes in 6 and I'm holding to it.

Why can't I find a clip of Pacman's blowout of Hatton on youtube yet???

Ciao.

Another Surreal Day

First off, I don't like being idle. Now, I *know* I'm not really idle - lots of things to do. But, I was raised to know that going to/coming from work on daily basis is what we do. THAT is what makes this so tough.

Second off, I feel bad for those "left behind". I really do. I'm not that unhappy for myself. I need to find a gig so the missus is comfortable. But, I know that the Right Thing will happen. But, the folks still there are staring down the same tracks into the same tunnel with the same realization that the light they see is a train. I will be praying for them.

Third off, I feel really blessed that God provides so well. He delivers EXACTLY what you need EXACTLY when you need it. No one can convince me otherwise. This has happened too often to be "coincidence".

Anyhoo, I'll be posting more on the transition. Looks like I'll be letting two 401k accounts sit for a bit. ;-)

Ciao.