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?