NBA Playoffs 2011 - Predictions and Winners

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Hey all,

Didn't see a post on this subject yet, but playoffs just started yesterday and it's already off to a fun and unpredictable start!

Lifelong Lakers fan, and I don't see any team getting in their way of a 3peat unless we face the Celtics in the Finals where it could go either way.

Who are you rooting for and who do you think will win it all this year?
#off topic forum
  • Lakers! The boys gotta get one more ring for good ol' Phil so he can go out on top!
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  • Let me chime in with my two fellow Laker fans.

    Looks like we're going to work our way through this late season slump as we played horrible defense yesterday against the Hornets and even lost the game.

    I was expecting a sweep but that's not going to happen.

    Maybe this title will be like our championship of 1988 where we had to win at least 3 seven game series in order to win the championship.

    I agree, no one in the west can beat us.

    All The Best & Go Lakers!!!!!!!!!!!!

    TL
  • It looks like the Big 3 (Celts, Lakers, Spurs) may be the "Old 3". I thought one of them would win it all this year, but none looked very good in their first games.

    My heart is with my Nuggets, but they are really banged up right now and about the only team they've struggled with are the Thunder....Just match ups. Durant just kills us.

    My Nugget pet peeve: How we can't win it all without a superstar. I tend to agree, however no one was picking us when we had Carmelo either and we are definately a better team without him. These new "Knugget" players are all pretty good...
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    • Nice to see the Lakers lose yesterday!

      I'm pulling for the Nuggets, The Thunder or the Bulls.
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  • Finals: Lakers vs Heat

    Lakers win.

    I want the Knicks to win because I am a Knicks fan, but they aren't good enough.
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  • I'm a fan of nuggets ever since. So I hope nuggets will win this 2011 playoffs.
  • Da Bulls - for the win.
  • 3 peat it! Kobe is on a mission again.
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  • Banned
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  • The battles resume tonight!
  • Thunder Season tickets holder here, so lets go Thunder!

  • I remember how full of hope you were during last seasons playoff regarding the future prospects of the Bulls.

    The Bulls have their own trio of top 60 players in Boozer, Deng and Mr. Rose.

    I predict your Bulls won't get out of the east this year but next year they will be an even bigger problem for the teams of the eastern conference.

    Enjoy the ride while it lasts my friend and remember, it's a long war and your 6 NBA championships and domination of the 1990's rate a serious honorable mention in the annuls of NBA lore.

    TL
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    • Oklahoma Thunder will shock the world!
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    • How dare you insinuate that I will tolerate such a diabolical kaleidoscope of insults???

      I have therefore changed by prediction concerning the Bulls.

      We now want the men in green or red. ( we have a score to settle with both )

      Thanks to your insolence, we have issued a new decree.

      Although he danced to the rhythm of the flashlight, Sir Nose remained devoid of funk.

      Now aligned with the bump-noxious RumpOfSteelSkin,

      ...this dull duo (The green & The red) from the "Zone Of Zero Funkativity" once again attempts to syndronize the planet,...

      ...for in the face of the fury of the funk - they remain cool.

      Seeing so this be, Miken renders to Kobe, this decree.

      Gather the baddest master funkers from throughout the galaxy and do the Underwater Boogie down Bininy road until you get off at the function.

      Hark and mark forward.

      Be ye aware of the motor booty.

      ( in other words - that's your ass dude )

      You have earned the wrath of the Laker nation and we look forward to your day at court.


      Laker Fan#1 - TL
  • I think they will make it to the finals at least. If they play Miami, I think that will be a great series.

  • Congrats to Lamar Odom for winning the NBA Six Man Of The Year Award this season.


    TL
  • I'm pulling for the Celtics. I just hope they can dig deep like they have in the past. That being said the Bulls look really good and as a previous poster said, I think they will only get stronger next year.
  • Last night we soundly defeated the Hornets 87-78 without Kobe and Gasol having decent games.

    Kobe had only 11 points on 3 of 10 from the field and Pau - only 8 points on 2 of 10 from the field.

    That's a combined 5 of 20 for only 19 points from our two superstars.

    We don't need those two to have a great game in order to beat the Hornets.

    But...

    It was a must win game for us and we came through with flying colors. ( purple, the color of royalty and gold )

    They never got closer than 7 points after halftime.

    As I predicted...

    ... we got a lot rougher with Mr. Paul as he was not a major problem except for a couple of end of quarter 3 pointers of which we gladly dared him to hit - and he did.

    Kobe guarded Mr. Paul most of the evening and effectively shut him down by...

    1: laying off of him: ( stopping his penetration )

    2: Not switching & also trapping him:

    ( so that Mr. Paul wouldn't continue to make a monkey out of any big man trying to guard him- one on one because of the pick and roll switch)

    3: Getting physical: ( to wear him down )

    Mr. Paul also played for 43 of the 48 minutes and often complained about elbows to the hit area.


    Odum, Artest and Bynum picked up the slack with 16, 15 and 17 points respectively.

    The Laker bench of Odum, Barnes, Brown & Blake played well as the Lakers gained 10 points on average when any of these players were on the court.

    Odum received his 6 man of the year award before the game.



    We're looking forward to getting rid of the hornets in 6 games at the most but 5 games would be better.

    We need all the rest we can get to continue to defend the kingdom from the conspirators who lust after our crown.

    TL

    Note: All stats from NBA.com
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    • TL, the Lakers didn't "soundly defeat" New Orleans. LOL. NO is not a strong or deep team and the Lakers, in a must win game, never put them away until the final few minutes. This Laker team is not playing like a Championship team.

      By the way, it's Odom, not Odum. :-)
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  • All of the top 4 seeds are going to win the first round. Some of the teams have made it a close series so far, but the top 4 teams are all better than their lower seeded counterparts. . . After that I see Miami and Chicago in the Eastern Finals and L.A. against OKC. Yes, I just called an upset. For the NBA Finals, I'm going to call L.A. vs. Chicago. This matchup intrigues me and I can't wait to see MVP vs. former MVP squaring up for the title. I think L.A. wins this one in 6 or most likely 7 due to experience only. . . As for Miami, they may have 3 superstars, but they don't have a deep bench, can't figure out who is taking the last shot, and don't play as well together as some might think will all of those egos on a team. Denver before the trade and now N.Y. are finding that out. You have to have good chemistry, a good bench, and play some D. Something that all of those teams lack.
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  • Good win Lakers!
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    • Not really... LUCKY is more like it. They have been playing terrible lately. Ah well, hopefully they will lose it soon!

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  • I was hoping that the Pacers could of at least won 1 game. The Bulls were looking good though, I think they have a good chance.
  • my bet goes for Lakers.. again. haha!
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  • I didn't see much of the last night's game due to watching the movie Batman & Robin with the kid so I can't give an opinion as to why we lost to them again.

    Once again Mr. Paul had a very good game and it seems that as he goes so go the Hornets.

    We are now tied at 2 games apiece and we need to get rid of them ASAP.

    The winner of game 5 normal wins most 7 game series and that will be on Tuesday night.

    The only other surprise for me during this years' playoff season is how Atlanta has a 3-1 game lead over the Magic.

    You may now break out the Lakerhateraide.

    TL
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    • You missed a good game TL. Paul was amazing. Kobe had an off night with his first scoreless half in the playoffs since 2004. Then he hurt his foot late in the game. Here's a good article on the game. Note the story about the youtube video about some buffalo that as a group attacked some lions to save a calf that inspired the Hornets.

      Lakers must slow down Paul, swarm of Hornets

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  • Memphis having a 2-1 lead over the Spurs is the biggest surprise. What I thought would be the most boring series in the playoffs has turned out pretty interesting and I can't wait for game 4 tonight, should be pretty good.. If the Grizzles play well tonight, I think they *can* take the series since the Spurs seem to have no answers for the size of Gasol and Randolph in the middle.

    The entire playoffs has been interesting. I've watched more basketball in the past 2-3 weeks than I have in the last 5 years or so
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  • Memphis to knock out Spurs? Impressive!!!
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    • I never believed in the Spurs but I thought they would at least get by the Grizzlies.


      TL
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  • I don't like lakers in the first place, they've been a champions for a long time and I guess it's time to give it to the others. Sorry for that.
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  • I'm a Celtic fan so lets go Celtics. Get 18!!!
  • After being down by 9 in 1st period, Lakers pull away in 2nd half and pound Hornets 106-90.

    Lakers doubled the Hornets on points in the paint and 2nd chance points.

    Kobe had 2 monsterous posterizing dunks to spark the Lakers.

    The Lakers bench outscored the Hornets' 29-14.

    No Laker had more than 19 points and six were in double figures.

    Hornets were shutdown in 2nd half as they scored only about 33 points in the half with 2 minutes to go and the game was already decided.

    When winning Game 5, the Lakers are 22-4 all-time as they hope to close out the series Thursday at New Orleans.


    Game 6 is Thursday in New Orleans.


    NOTES: Before the game, Artest received the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award, recognizing his tireless year of mental health advocacy.


    TL
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    • Yeah, this Hornet team isn't deep at all and if you have Belinelli starting that shows how weak the team really is. Heck, Belinelli had trouble getting minutes for the Warriors. The Hornets have one great player and a few other decent players and yet the Lakers are struggling to win this series.
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  • I'm a fan of spurs!even if they will not be winning spurs is still the champion for me.
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    • I'm also a big fan of SPURS, for me also they are the champions and the MVP is Manu Ginobili.
  • I think Lakers or Boston will win.
  • MIAMI HEAT all the way! King James and D Wade are unstopable! Bosh is good too
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    • Wow, I can't believe I JUST found this thread. I'm an NBA addict lol. Kobe fan here. I'm not loyal to any one team. I follow certain players and like to see their teams do good but ultimately I want Kobe with another ring

      I predict either Lakers vs. OKC in the western conference finals. Heat/Boston vs Chigago in the eastern finals.

      Perfect finals would be of course Kobe and company vs the big trio in MIA.
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  • Lakers facing the Mavs in Round 2!
  • Lakers dust off scrappy Hornets 98-80.

    25-26 from free throw line.

    Hornets averaged only 40 points per half in the last 3 halfs played.

    Phase 1 complete.

    Dallas starting on Monday night.

    The series may go 7, but Lakers will move on to phase 3 - western conference finals.

    TL
  • San Antone has been removed from the list of powers.

    It may be the end of an era.

    Memphis moves on to face Mr. Durant and the Thunder in the Western conference semi-finals.

    Left Standing:

    Eastern Conference:

    Miami vs. Boston

    &

    Atlanta vs. Chicago


    Western Conference:

    Dallas vs. Los Angeles

    &

    Memphis vs. Oklahoma City


    There can only be one!


    TL
  • Come on everyone....Miami Heat all the way!!!
  • Only 8 teams remain.

    Lakers give up first game in this series also 96-94.

    We lead by at least 16 in middle of 3rd period.

    We can not continue to temp fate or the crown will be lost.

    I believe this series will go at least 6 games.

    Chicago loses 1st game vs. Atlanta also.

    Atlanta could be a real problem for them.

    TL
  • I can't remember the last time I've been this upset with the Lakers! Up by 16 points in the 3rd quarter and they blow the lead... ugh.
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    • We got away from going inside and instead got into a jump shooting/fastbreak game with them and it cost us.

      Phil should have stopped it but he never calls time outs.

      All this means is that we'll have to go 7 games with them but don't be surprised if it only goes 6.


      All The Best!!

      TL
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  • i like bulls to win the finals, congrats to derrick rose for winning the mvp awards
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    • I wonder if the Mavs will play the Thunder or Grizzlies?
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  • I'm watching the The Heat against the Celtics, KG verses Lebron, and i gotta say, Miami are up 43 against Celtics 38. Dwayne is unstoppable. I'm thinking the Heat could take the Celtics down.
  • The Heat will come out of the east.


    TL
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  • It may be time to turn out the lights for my Lakers but I can not give up hope until we have been completely defeated.

    Yes, even though it's like they scored 5 touchdowns in the 2nd quarter and the game is over at halftime or they have scored 10 runs in the top of the 9th to go up by 10 runs, all hope is not lost as long as we have breath in our bodies.

    Once again, this will be the most glorious championship in Laker, scratch that, in NBA history.


    Laker Fan #1 out.
  • No team has ever done it. But if there's ever going to be a first, I'd have to say that it could be done by a Phil Jackson team. It would definitely make for some great basketball that's for sure.

    Plus if there's ever a team that I would want it to happen against, it would be Mark Cuban's team. If for nothing else but to watch that big baby cry.
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    • Go Bulls It has been awhile
  • Wow... I take back what I said. After watching 2 flagrant fouls in a row, I'd just throw in the towel if I were Phil jackson. What an embarrassment some of these idiot players are.
  • Pathetic way to go out Lakers! I'm still a fan, but I thought we had a bit more fight and class, I'm very disappointed in the way we went out.

    In any case, I'm rooting for the Bulls to win it all now, DRose is such a workhorse, and I love his humble yet hungry attitude.
  • I was going to give TL some "stuff" for the Lakers losing, but as a fellow sports fan, I think he's being punished enough.

    That wasn't good...
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    • Well, the other three series are turning out to be interesting. If Boston wins the next one at home the pressure will be on Miami. By the way, that performance by Rondo Saturday was amazing and inspiring. I have a gained a lot of respect for him and Boston. They have a lot of heart.

      Two big underdogs, The Hawks and Memphis are surprising many.
  • It is with profound sadness and deep regret that I announce to the world that:

    1: The barbarians (non Laker fans) have smashed through the gates, there will be a "new" NBA champion this season and we are forced to relinquish the crown.

    2: I am ashamed of the performace of my Lakers this playoff season.

    BTW...

    This is also the 2nd mother's day massacre we have suffered in our storied history.

    3: I make no apologies for my haughtiness & arrogance in earlier posts to this thread - after all, champions have rights & privileges that commoners do not.

    4: Congratulations to the Mavericks of Dallas as they have served us royally.

    5: You have not seen the last of us and we shall return to power soon.

    Laker Fan #1 TL
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    • But without Phil Jackson though. Who will be the next Lakers head coach? L.A. Times:



      And do you think Jackson will coach somewhere again in the future?

      Mike
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  • I'm hoping to play OKC in the Conf. Finals as they are the less deep team of the two. I want Chicago and Boston to win but I don't think Boston will so I'm pulling for Chicago so that they can take care of the classless Heat. America's team is anyone playing the Heat. I can't wait until they get ousted so I can read and hear all of the ridiculous excuses as to why an all star team didn't win. Go Mavs, Bulls, Celtics, Thunder, and Grizzlies in that order or whoever is playing them. I hate the Heat.
  • The Memphis/OkC three overtime game was terrific. Either one of those two teams will give the Mavs a tougher series than the one they just had. In fact, I'll go out on a limb and pick the winner of this series to beat the Mavs.
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    • I too thoroughly enjoyed that game. But it's hard to pick any team over the Mavs after the way they so handily dismantled the Lakers. However, I am predicting that the Bulls will regroup, Rose's MVP head will deflate, and they'll dominate from here on out. Including making Mark Cuban throw several tantrums, thus making everyone forget about the Laker's shenanigans.
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    • It was a fantastic game!


      The team that knocked the Lakers out of the playoffs will go to the NBA finals.

      My pick for the finals is Dallas verses Miami.



      TL
  • Paul Gasol will be traded before Bynum gets traded IMHO.

    Look out for another Laker blockbuster deal involving either Dwight Howard, Chris Paul or some other highly coveted free agent.

    D. Fisher needs to retire and Steve Blake was not a lot of help so we need someone else to start at point guard.

    Your Bulls will not get out of the eastern conference this year - maybe next year.

    Miami will once again play Dallas in the NBA Finals.

    TL
  • Go Lakers! Lakers for the win!
  • Well, BYE BYE Lakers.

    The only team who will take the championship is the HEAT.

    I want them to win but don't forget that I am a BIG raptors fan since I live here in Toronto.

    Even though Chris Bosh left T.O to join the HEAT, I want him and his team to win and take it all. Chris deserves it.

    Tal
  • How about the Celtics' chances of coming back from this slump against the Heat....


    I know it's a slim chance especially with my MAN Rondo hurt, but I want them to go to the ship so badly.

    Celtics!!! The quintessential team! Damnit!
  • How about those Lakers? Oh it's too late for them...Lol.

    Poor Kobe, Ha Ha! Ok Ok, I won't rub it in anymore.

    I just want either Dallas or Miami to win.
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    • Wow!... I was watching a fight and a basketball game broke out!

      Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom should personally apologize to the following ..

      Jerry West
      Elgin Baylor
      Gail Goodrich
      Magic Johnson
      Kareem Abdul Jabbar
      James Worthy
      Shaq Oneal
      Kobe Bryant
      and Others ... including Laker Fans For the embarrassment and smudge they put on the Laker Legacy they helped to create and build.
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  • Robert Tractor Traylor was found dead in his apartment in Puerto Rico today at the age of 34. That's too young.

    RIP
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    • Well, it's good to finally see the Lakers get swept. I never imagined that would happen, even in the slightest. Phil can now retire as the best coach ever.

      All Laker fans should be embarrassed for the terrible sportsmanship shown by Artest, Odum, and Bynum. And give props to Kobe for taking his losses in stride, and being the most respectable player on the team.

      As far as who wins, the HEAT should sow this one up pretty easily. I think Lebron will get his first ring in Miami, although the competition is still stiff.
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  • Banned
    Definitely no more ring for Kobe this year, but I hope LeBron and his brats will not also get past to the NBA Finals. They did beat the Celtics 4-1, but East Finals is not going to be easy for them.

    I'm routing for my MVP Derrick Rose and the Bulls to finish the Hawks in 6! And to embarrass the Heat, just like the Mavs did to the Lakers!
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    • I don't really like that trio either, but they have experience behind them. If Rose won a ring this early that would be pretty miraculous.

      And can you actually picture Boozer winning a ring? I guess in due time.


    • Well the battle lines are clearly drawn now and they will engage in game #1 on Sunday night.

      Actually the Heat have 3 top 60 NBA players as do the Bulls but the 3 for Miami are a bit more talented combined IMHO.

      I'm picking Miami in 7 games.

      If they can beat Boston in 5 games, Miami should be able to teach Chicago a few lessons to build on for next season even though Chi-town has the home court advantage.

      Notice:

      This is only the first of many battles for supremacy of the eastern conference to come over the next decade between these two teams.



      TL
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  • After LA Lakers loss don't feel like watching NBA Playoffs 2011.
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    • That makes it even that much better!

    • Fellow Laker Brother...

      Don't let your heart be troubled for we shall rise again.

      Plus you'll miss out on some very good basketball.

      TL
  • I'm afraid the Heat will take it all. I hate the Heat.
    I am a Knick fan rooting for boston to beat them..it feels weird! LOL
  • No question about it.....

    Heat will beat the Bulls.

    I am not sure if they are going to sweep them but they are going to the finals and I pretty much think that they will go against the Mavs and beat them too.

    GO HEAT even though I am a raptors fan.
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  • For all of you rooting for the Heat that aren't a Heat fan or from Florida are ridiculous. I'm guessing band wagoners? Yes? . . . I don't see how anyone that wasn't already a Heat fan or from Florida could possibly root for a team without much class. Anytime you have to have a one hour tv show to announce how you screwed over your team that you said you loved and a whole city to go play on an all star team just demonstrates how arrogant, classless, and despicable you really are. I can't wait to see them get beat. I might go run down the street, fist in the air in celebration. I'm just glad that most people see that and his "legacy" is forever tarnished. He'll never be a Jordan, a Kobe, or possibly a D. Rose the way he's going. He'll just be a talented player that couldn't do it without the help of 2 other superstars. Good job bro. . . As Jordan once said. I could've tried to get on a team with Bird and Magic, but hell no, I don't want to play with those guys. To be the best you have to beat the best and I want to beat them.
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    • Ironic, since Jordan never beat Bird and the only time he beat Magic was after Magic got HIV, retired for a short time, then tried to make a comeback....Jordan won ZERO titles when Bird or a healthy Magic were in the NBA.
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  • Miami Heats!
  • I think the Bulls have this one. After all The Heat have yet to beat the Bulls this year.
  • have to go with the bulls also.

    GO BULLS.
  • for eastern finals, i like either of Bulls and Miami and for West finals i'll root for the Mavs
  • I was really surprised at Miami for not coming out as strong as they should.

    Bench players have to score more.

    Plus, Miami's Dfence has to improve a whole lot better because it was not that good. If they don't, Bulls will take it and sweep them very fast.

    James has to also step it up.
  • I didn't watch the entire game and was switching back and forth...But how about Dirk?

    The guy has 15 shots and scores 48 points and didn't make a single 3 pointer. Unbelievable!
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    • Yes, he is un-real. It's hard to see OKC even taking more than 1 game in this series. They will definitely NOT win in 6. I'd say they have a much better chance of losing in 5 or 6, as much as I hope I'm wrong.

      2-1/2 men need to step it up. If they play the same way throughout this series, they will get stomped!


    • Dirk was fantastic!

      He said his secret is his shot selection and since his jumper is so deadly, he can also go to the bucket easier and get fouled a lot in the process.

      He set a new NBA playoff record by going 24 for 24 from the free throw line last night.

      OKC must play better defense cause Dallas is hot and full of confidence at beating the defending NBA champs.

      TL
    • Dirk couldn't miss. The Thunder need to change their game plan against him. Maybe double team him more. Plus, Westbrook had a bad game: 3-15 with only 3 assists!? Terrible. The Thunder can definitely win the series, but Westbrook has to play better. Durant and the others did their part.

  • Comment on Bulls withheld until Bulls Fan #1 gives an update.

    TL
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    • I don't know about Bulls Fan #1 TL, but I think the Bulls blew a chance to go up 2-0. Terrible shooting. It wasn't because of great defense by the Heat either. They were missing wide open jump shots and layups. Rose 7-23, Deng 5-15, Boozer 3-10 and Korver 1-7! 3-20 on threes?! 34% overall. Ugly.

    • If I remember correctly, Miami has the #2 or 3 defense in the league and they had a lot to do with the poor shooting night of the Bulls.

      Miami has found the cure for Mr. Rose.

      Simply control his penetration and the rest is history.

      Mr. Haslem is back and will make a tremendous impact on this series equalizing the bench play and if Erick Dampier & Zydrunas Ilgauskas play in this series the task will be easier.

      My original prediction will hold firm of Miami in 6.

      TL
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    • As a Nugget fan, I've watched Melo his whole career. I watched at least parts of 75 Nugget games this year.

      I believe Melo is the most overrated player in the NBA. He "lead" the Nuggets out of the first round of the playoffs just one time...And that was only after Chauncy Billups joined the team.

      I don't think that's a coincidence. On the other hand Chauncy has been to the conference finals at least 7 times (maybe more?).

      Some say Melo is a great offensive player. No he's not, he's a great SCORER. He does nothing to help the other players score.

      He's what I call a "slow scorer". He has possesion of the ball for long periods of time, causing the other 4 players to stand and watch, because they're not involved.

      I'll take Alex English over Melo any day of the week and twice on Sundays. English didn't slow down the offense. His first look was for cutters to the basket. If not, he'd make a decisive move and either shoot or pass quickly. As a matter of fact I remember coach Doug Moe once in a while yelling at English to shoot MORE.

      IMO Melo is more in a class with World B. Free than the all time greats. He can put up numbers but really doesn't help his team win...And he has to have the ball for long periods of time.

      I'm not saying he's a bad player, but I do think he's a "neutral" player and I felt the Nuggets would have about the same record without him as they did with him, as we did throughout his career when he missed games. I was wrong. We had a better record without him.
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  • Westbrook will play better and the Thunder win tonight in Dallas.. Lets see what happens..
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  • lebron james is the truth
  • Miami all the way!!!
  • Hey TL...

    Give Kareem a statue already. Putting a statue of Gretsky in LA before Kareem gets one? C'mon man!
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  • Thunder will go all the way!!!
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  • I just hope a western team wins. As a Boston fan, I can't stand the Heat and not crazy about Chicago either.
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  • Miami sweeps Dallas in the finals
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    • How you feeling now? I wanted Dallas to win first and foremost because I'm from Fort Worth and have been a Mavs and local Dallas team fan all my life. But secondly for things like this. The hype incarnate dished out by people that thought that Dallas was too soft, would choke, Queen James was the best player in the world and possibly all time, Miami was "the better team," the triumverate would just own, and that it would prove that superstar filled superteams would easily dispatch a complete team.

      Now to reality. Justice was served and I loved LeBum's comments about how we're all going to have to wake up to face the reality that we don't have millions like he does and are not as "loved," and as famous. Whatever bro. My teams a champion with rings (actually Cuban wants to give them something other than rings because that's just too "old school." I love that he's a good owner, spends the dough, and is a fan owner that spares no expense for his fandom, but this is just stupid, asinine, and ridiculous.) and you're still a loser. Way to get with dumba#$ Wade and make fun of Dirk. I loved Kurt's comment by the way of them actually not making fun, but mimicking their choking skills. Who choked now Wade and LeBaby?

      But to end this. Congratulations to my team, to Dirk for solidifying his legacy as did Kidd and possibly Terry and to our fans that were true and finally to Donald Carter, our first owner that's always believed in us. Great job. Great season. Great championship.
      • [ 1 ] Thanks
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  • Mavs VS Heat
  • Dallas holds on to win game #3, 93-87.

    Dirk & Jason Terry shot a combined 10 for 33 and Dallas still won.

    The team that wins game #3 has won close to 80% of all NBA playoff series.

    Both teams must win this game tonight because big pressure will be on the loser in game #4.

    Nothing's like watching your fav team battle for the championship but it's still great basketball.

    I'm not sure whether I like the NBA or the NFL better.


    TL
    • [1] reply
    • Yes, it's quite a hard decision there.

      - #1 Cardinals Fan

      Looks like TL was right on. The Bulls are deep, but Miami has the edge in toughness and in talent. In the west, Dallas easily has this won. I'm very disappointed in OKC.

      • [1] reply
  • Heat use 4th period spurt to finish off Bulls 96-85 and go up 2 games to 1.

    Game 4 will be in Miami and the Bulls must be very careful.

    Bulls averaging only 80 points per game vs. Heat in last 2 games.

    Is it poor shooting or good defense or a combo of both??

    Dallas visits OKC tonight and OKC must win or go down 3 games to 1.

    TL
    • [1] reply
    • Well, turns out the Thunder aren't quite ready yet. They had a slogan "Why not now" that was in response to their inexperience and young age average of their players. I guess that slogan is gone. Westbrook was disappointing throughout the series. His stats weren't bad tonight but to me he wasn't very effective. again. I tell you what. He isn't anywhere near the player that Monta Ellis is. Monta is a true star who should have been on the all star team instead of Westbrook.
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  • He always walks once or twice a game, just like he always does the arm swing with the ball to come down on the opposing players arms to draw the foul. I like how they just didn't give him the fouls like he expects and you could see it on his face last night. I like the guy. I'm a UT fan and I hope him the best, just not against my Mavs. . . I would say that was our greatest playoff win except for the game 7 against San Antonio in 2006 and possibly game 6 against Phx the same year ONLY because it got us into the finals but as far as just great victories, the San Antonio game 7 and last night were our best. Dirk proved he can take over a game late and not flop because he's soft as many assert. We need to just get it done on Wednesday and not mess around so we can get some rest. I predict 6 games in the East with the Heat winning games 4 and 6.
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    • I remember how amazed I was that Dallas beat the Spurs in 2006 when Dirk made that fantastic shot.

      Looks like Dallas is going to the NBA finals once again.

      The east has not been settled yet.

      TL
  • I want Dallas because a: they are my team, b: I hate Miami with their Yankee-esque all star team, c: I would like to see all of the band wagon Miami fans whine and hear what forms of excuses they have for both losing to Dallas and why a team with 3 superstars couldn't win a title d: Miami doesn't deserve to win e: LeBron's an egotistically, arrogant cry baby f: I hate Miami g: I couldn't handle losing to D.Wade with the refs in his pocket shooting 30+ free throws a game and finally h: I hate Miami, they can all go take a long walk off a short pier. (Not to die, but to go take a looooooong swim for about 15 years)
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    • I'm not sure who is cockier, LeBron and Wade or Mark Cuban?

      Actually, I can't stand ALL 4 of them, including Bosch. LOL

      Dirk is fantastic, but honestly, I don't see Jason Kidd or Shawn Marion as championship material. Neither could get the job done in Phoenix, I'm not sure if they won't choke in the Finals, as they are accustomed to doing.

      Then again, I thought the same thing about Kenny "the jet" Smith, and he has a ring. It's unfortunate, but true.
  • A young Chicago Bulls ball club ( with the best regular season record )...

    ...have met their match and are now down 3 games to 1 as Lebron comes up big again - with an overtime win.

    Miller Time!!

    Mike Miller answers the bell with 12 points and leads a bench that shot 50% from the field and 4 of 7 from downtown.

    According to the NBA site, when Miller was in the game, the Heat outscored the Bulls by
    36 points in only 26 minutes of play.

    When Haslem was in the game the Heat outscored the Bulls by 25 points in 33 minutes of play.

    Miller's margin is the largest margin that I can remember for any player in any playoff game.

    Miller and Haslem also had 9 rebounds each to lead the Heat.

    My bottom line - the Heat bench gets the game ball.

    Miami also shot 16 more free throws than the Bulls - that's a lot to overcome and I have not heard anyone complain about the officiating.

    Secret Miami Defense:

    Control Mr. Roses' penetration and force him to shoot jumpers or just put Lebron on him in critical situations.



    Baring a very serious anomaly in the laws of NBA series percentages, it looks like it will be a rematch of the 2006 NBA Finals between the Heat Of Miami and the Mavericks Of Dallas.

    - Who we want to win is one thing and who we think will win can be another.

    Since the Mavs beat the champs (my team) and they don't have any championships, I wouldn't mind seeing them win this time.

    But I need to look at the stats before I give my prediction on the winner.

    Question??

    Will Lebron get the last laugh on his critics???


    TL
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
    • [3] replies
    • TL is exactly right. The "hype" behind the 2 1/2 men has "overshadowed" how truly talented and tough the entire team is as a whole.

      Dirk will not lay-down this time, and neither will LeBron. This will be much harder fought this time around.
    • Hey, you already made your prediction. You picked the Mavs after they swept that other team whose name eludes me now.

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    • TL, I just read that the Lakers signed Mike Brown as your new coach! I am so happy they did because he was one of those being considered to coach the Warriors and I think he sucks. Meanwhile we signed Jerry West to the front office. The tides are changing and to make sure they change I put my own curse on the Lakers so they won't win another Championship for at least two decades. Sorry. Nothing personal but it just had to be done.
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  • The ugliness will surely come out once both series are finished officially and Dallas is set to take on Miami since they should have home court. Both sides will talk so much trash about the other including crazy Cuban, the fan owner that points out just how dirty the refs can be sometime, to the chagrin of people that think refs don't have bias or bet on games. Wasn't there a ref that got caught on that one? Hmmm. . . And also cry baby LeBron and why he hasn't won rings and why we should all admire him for his determination and blah, blah, barf. We'll see. Buying championships has worked for the Yankees. I don't see why it wouldn't work now for all their band wagon fans. But you NEVER really know and Dallas is hungry this time around. Battle scarred and ready for war.
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  • Dallas puts a young OKC ball club out of their misery in 5 games with another late 4th period comeback 100 to 96.

    Shawn Marion AKA The Matrix surprises everyone with 26 big points.

    Dirk continues to be the MVP of the playoffs with 26 points himself.

    Perhaps the Finals can begin on Sunday night if Miami ends the Bulls season tonight in Chicago.

    I say get it over with.


    TL
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  • I'm wanting Miami Chicago to go at least 6, if not 7. Dallas could use some extra rest like they did after beating that team from L.A. . . . You get rewarded for beating teams quickly. And 12-3 in the playoffs is pretty quick including 5 straight road wins. Miami was the last one to win that many road wins in the playoffs in 05 I believe. . . I think Miami needs to get more shooters and a deeper bench to match up with Dallas, but with the league wanting the Heat to win and the refs calling whatever, anything can happen. Dallas is the better team, but Miami has more stars. We'll see what happens.
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    • You claim the league wants the Heat to win yeh??

      I doubt it.

      I haven't heard any Chicago complaints regarding the officiating. If it was so bad then I think somebody from Chicago would have spoken up and taken the fine.

      As you're a Dallas fan I understand you wanting the Miami/Chicago series to go at least 6 if not 7 games.

      Only time will tell who's the better team.

      I can't wait to find out.

      Looks like Miami will have home court advantage by a regular season record of 58-24 - just one game better than Dallas.

      TL

      PS. We're on the same page in rooting for Dallas but I'm not sure who will win.
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  • Ok that was an impressive - and most depressing comeback by the Heat. Now 2 teams that I hate in the finals. I hope it's a hard battle full of injuries

    And just for fun, maybe a Lebron ball save where Mark Cuban gets crushed to death.
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  • Miami just came back in that game like I haven't seen in a while. I thought Lebron was just mailing in that game, then he just decides, "yeah I think we'll just win it now".

    Awesome game.

    The bulls have a very bright future though, they're just missing one "Scottie Pippen" type player to be the second scorer behind MVP.

    I think the finals are going to be a great show, can't wait.
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  • Go Mavs!! I think this is the year they can do it. I will be watching!
  • I'm hoping the Mavs take it, but what a game tonight huh?
  • Lebron vs Cuban...Who do I dislike the least?

    Go Mavs. At least I can root for Kidd and Dirk.
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  • I have to go with Dallas, Dirk Nowitski is just too accurate of a shooter.
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    • No way dude. I still think that Miami will take it all.
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  • The game began to turn after a flagrant foul by Boozer on Lebron late in the 3rd period.

    After that flagrant foul by Boozer, it was a slow downhill spiral for the Bulls culminating with a stunning 18-3 run by Miami to end the game and to put the young Bulls and their fans out of their misery.

    Putting Lebron on Mr. Rose in the 4th period once again worked like a charm.

    Miami Thrice scored the Heat's last 33 points as once again all three members had at least 20 points each.

    Better luck next time to the rowdy Bulls faithful.

    ( There were chants of "Lebron sucks" when James was at the free throw line and chants of "bull****, bull****" when the faithful disagreed with a call )


    The Finals:

    Both teams are red, red hot and I do not expect this series to go less than 6 games but stranger things have happened as the Heat have the hc advantage.

    My big question is will Miami "dee up" Dallas much the same way they "deeed up" the Bulls?

    In the name of my Lakers and for Machiavellian reasons of better Laker franchise moral etc., I'll say once again,...

    ... the team that beat the champs will become the champs.

    Lending credence to my strong belief that if we had beaten Dallas we would have proceeded to win it all.


    Enjoy The Finals!

    TL
  • Tonight we start the process of crowning a "new" NBA champion.

    Interesting tidbits...

    - Miami has the home court advantage.

    - Dallas has swept the season series vs. Miami the last 7 years.

    - Miami has averaged more points per game and gave up less points per game than Dallas in the regular season.

    - Dallas has averaged more made 3 pointers than any team in the playoffs and Miami has shot more foul shots per game than any other team in this years' playoffs.

    There couldn't be a bigger contrast in offensive philosophies than these two teams.

    Who will prevail???


    TL
    • [1] reply
    • I pulling for Dallas of course TL. Wade's shoulder seems to be giving him real trouble lately and could be a factor.

      By the way, what do you think about Pippen calling James the greatest player ever? I was surprised. It's too soon to say something like that especially after Lebron's performance in the playoffs last year. Maybe Pippen and Jordan aren't getting along.
      • [2] replies
  • Thanks guys. At least there was a streak of about 4 or 5 where people were pulling for the Mavs of the light over the evil that is the team in black. Ironic color I might add. Tonight starts the war between the light warriors that represent everything that is good and right versus the barbaric and savage horde that represents death to the world of Basketballitum. May BasketGod have mercy on the good souls. . . And to Kurt. I like your honest, very unique opinion. It's not everyday that you see a player put over Jordan. And you have THREE to FOUR. Very impressive.
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    • GO SONICS!

      (Sorry, I have to say that at least once a year.)
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    • The game has changed and the big, talented centers seem to be a thing of the past.

      I watched Kareem when he was young and he dominated. And he did it against players like Nate Thurman, Bob Lanier, Walton, Wilt, etc.

      With Wilt, people bring up that he played against short white guys, which he did. But I remember a playoff game where Wilt blocked 6 or 7 of Kareem's sky hooks. And this was at the end of Wilt's career when he was past his prime. Kareem did have something like 40 points, but it's Wilt's athleticism that should be noted. And I don't recall Olajuwon blocking any sky hooks.

      Let's be honest, once every couple of seasons Kareem would get his sky hook blocked and it made every sports show highlights when it happened...To block 6-7 in a single game to me shows just what an athlete Wilt really was.

      Some people don't realize that Wilt was a border-line Olympic calibre hurdles sprinter in high school, or that he played point guard for the Globetrotters in the off-season.

      Think about a 7-footer today that would be a world-class hurdle sprinter? I don't see many.
  • No sir! It ain't that easy son! Its the MAVS vs the Heat today!
  • Miami SWEEEEEPPPP. The end.
  • Miami outscores Dallas 92-84 in game #1 as Miami Thrice strikes again.

    - The Heat trailed by 8 points in the third quarter before turning things around.

    BTW, the game 1 winner has won the NBA finals 73% of the time.

    16 offensive rebounds by Miami a big factor. ( Dallas had only 6 )

    When you play a lots of zone as Dallas did last night, in an attempt to limit Miami's penetration, you normally leave yourself open to lots of second chance opps.

    Will Dallas abandon the zone?

    It's clear, Miami does not care how bad they're shooting, as long as their opponents shoot worse.

    Interesting stats...

    - Dallas made more free throws than Miami. ( 25-19 )

    - Miami made more 3pointers than Dallas. ( 11-9 )

    - Not one Dallas player had a positive effect, on the game for them according to the NBA.

    The NBA actually measures point differential while a player is in the game.

    - Both teams missed 7 foul shots.

    - Dallas bench goes 4 of 22. Miami's Charmlers scores 12 off bench on 3 of 7 from 3 point land.

    - Jason terry was the missing link as he scores 12 first half points but zip in the second half.






    If Dallas is to win this series someone must help Dirk.

    - Nowitzki tears tendon in left middle finger on his non shooting hand.

    - Heat undefeated at home this playoff season and Dallas must win at least 1 in Miami in order to take the crown.

    All the stats at NBA.com


    TL
  • Well I tip my hat to Miami, they are a great team this year. I'm still hoping for a Dallas miracle, but when Lebron can so easily hit a shot from 3 feet past the 3 point line - and with a hand in his face - then there's not much hope for the opposite team.

    If nothing else, at least I'll get to see Mark Cuban cry.
  • Banned
    [DELETED]
  • Great. Now I get to hear things like Miami Sweep and LeCrybaby is the greatest player ever for at least 2 days straight. . . When you make ridiculous lucky shots that fall only about 10% of the time and you also have the refs calling mostly a one way game in an entire half, it's hard to beat that. Everyone knows the league hates Dallas because of Cuban and wants Miami because they are their new darlings. As well as the media is biased hardcore towards Miami because they have 3 superstars despite having a worse overall team. And now we all get to listen to the 15% of basketball fans that also happen to be bandwagon Heat fans flap their mouths on and on as if this is the greatest team to ever suit up in any sport. My hats off to you for picking an obvious winner to root for. This way you'll never lose.
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    • I thought Dallas played real good defense most of the game. They just have to shoot at around 50% to win I think. Stojakovic and Barea shot terrible and they did have open shots. I don't think this will be a sweep.
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  • Goodbye Shaq...It was a lot of fun.

    Here's one of my all-time favorite sports related commercials Shaq did early in his career...It's seems really appropriate now, and still very cool:

    YouTube - ‪Shaquille O'Neal Pub reebok 1993‬‏
    • [ 2 ] Thanks
  • Wellllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll...
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    • Great comeback! One of the best ever in the finals.
  • Miami stunned by Dallas 95-92.

    Dirk and Terry show up in last 5-6 minutes of game.

    Dallas's "sag defense" worked to perfection - the last 6 minutes of the game.

    It was a total offensive and defensive breakdown by Miami.

    Will Dallas take 4 in a row and return the favor the Heat visited upon them in 2006???

    As far as I'm concerned, anything can happen after that 22-5 run in less than 6 minutes to end the game2.

    Miami should not have lost that game but they did.

    I thought the game was over when Wade hit that 3pointer to give Miami a 15 point lead in the 4th.

    Will the series return to South Florida??

    It was fun to watch.

    TL
    • [1] reply
    • I thought it was over also TL. It just didn't look like Dallas had the fire in them to come back. Supposedly the celebration by Wade and Lebron after that 3 right in front of the Mavs bench pissed off the Mavs and may have sparked the comeback.

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  • This is why people should take a look at what Wade and LeBron are all about. Once again proving to me that they are not worthy of being considered clutch players or all time greats. You never celebrate with so much time on the clock. Jordan would never have done that. Kobe wouldn't do that. You don't celebrate until the game's over. They'll be great. They'll be hall of famers. But they have a long ways to go to be considered all around elite greatness. They're like college players that don't know any better. I'm glad they did that. That sparked the fire under Dallas' a#@. That led to one of the best comebacks in NBA Finals history. One guy on the radio here for Fox News put it like it was 28 - 7 in the 4th quarter of an NFL game. That is not only a backbreaker, but demoralizing. Way to be Miami. Way to be. Proves Dallas is the classier, well put together team. Not to mention deeper and with a better head coach. If Dallas plays the way they should, I don't care about the 3 superstars because they don't have near the bench Dallas does, Dallas will win this series hands down. Better teams usually win a 7 game series but like I said, usually. We'll see.
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    • I'd like to see Dallas win for many reasons but I wouldn't bet my life or any money on it.

      Time will tell who the better team will be.

      If Dallas wins game #3, I believe there will be an extra amount of pressure on Miami to not lose game #4 and go down 3 games to 1.

      I guess the same can be said for Dallas.

      Some people believe everything will revolve around the bench play and so far the bench play has been a huge factor in each teams' win.

      I can't wait for game #3 in Big D.

      TL
  • FYI:

    Since the NBA Finals moved to a 2-3-2 format in 1985, when the teams are tied at 1 game each, the team that wins game #3 has won the series all 11 times.

    FYI:
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    • Wow, now that's an interesting stat. It will be fun to watch this next game. As much as I hate both teams, the rivalry is keeping it fun to watch.
  • Dallas achieved it's primary goal in Miami by getting a split.

    Now the pressure is clearly on the Heat to win at least 1 game in Dallas to return back home to Miami for games 6 and 7.

    ---- In 1989 my Lakers returned home down 3 games to 2 but still prevailed vs. the Pistons.

    If Miami continues to shoot more 3pointers than free throws they will be in big trouble.

    --- 55 3point attempts and only 50 free throw attempts in the first 2 games.

    Miami had been shooting free throws at a top 5 historic clip in this playoff season but they are not doing it vs. the Mavs and as far as I'm concerned it means big trouble for the Heat.

    Mr. James has shot only 6 fts in the first 2 games!!??!!!!

    Meanwhile...

    The Mavs have continued to make 3pointers at a top 5 playoff historic clip during this series vs. the Heat.

    TL
  • With the exception of 6 minutes of basketball, Miami has pretty much dominated this series... Heat in 6
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    • Once again the Heat shot more 3pointers than free throws and still won 88-86 with Dirk missing a 19 footer from one of his favorite spots on the floor at the buzzer.

      He had a good look but it "rimmed-out".

      D. Wade lead the way for the Heat with 29 points on 12 of 21 from the field and a big 11 rebounds.

      Earlier in this thread I said something to the effect of ... if Dallas does not score at least 90 points they will not beat Miami in a game.

      So far I'm on point.

      Of course anything can happen but if I were a betting man I'd now have to pick Miami in no more than 6 games.

      - Now Dallas must beat Miami 3 times in the next 4 games if they are to win the title.

      I just don't see Dallas putting up enough points to beat Miami 3 more times in the next 4 games.

      Amazingly, Miami is beating Dallas in the 3point game and their bench played much better as all their bench players had a net positive effect on the game for them.

      Mario Charmers was 4 4 6 from 3point land and ended up with 12 big points off the bench.

      Miami outscored the Mavericks by a 40-22 margin in the paint which may be the big stat of the day.

      Miami had at least eight dunks.

      Even though Dallas had a 11-2 run to end the first half and a huge 17-3 run in the third quarter the Heat still prevailed.

      Dallas is in big trouble unless Jason Terry explodes and the bench plays much better the rest of the series.


      TL
  • Dallas still not showing the way they play as they did in OKC, i hope they will play like that again to win the finals series
  • Mario Chalmers had a big game for Miami, I was impressed with how he stepped up to the plate for such a young player.
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    • What happened to Barea? He played so well throughout the playoffs, then gets to the finals and is terrible, missing wide open layups and threes. Plus 4 turnovers last night with only one assist in 19 minutes. If he was playing at the level he was against OKL Dallas would be up 3-0. And it ain't the Miami defense.
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  • It's do or die for Dallas tonight.

    If they win tonight, anything can happen in this series but...

    If they go down 3 games to 1, I won't be expecting any miracles.

    I think Dallas will win tonight.


    TL
  • Dallas role players and bench are just cold right now. It's not all Miami's D. Dallas is missing wide open looks. That won't happen every game and the scrubs on Miami's bench won't be hot every game, like making a 3 from nearly half court. That was the difference in the last game. Albeit, things might have gone differently, it put Dallas down by 7 at that point and Dallas only lost by 2. Speaking of which, each game has been close and anything can happen. Biggest stat point. Dallas has played like absolute dogsh#$, except for Dirk, including worrying about fouls, thus leading to open dunks and layups and Miami is barely winning. I wouldn't call that extreme dominance. Look for Dallas to be in a must win and possibly a much needed flagrant one hard foul in the lane. Not to put someone out, just to send a message that we're not soft and you're not just going to score with a pansy swipe breeze on your neck while you do. Put Wade on the floor and make them think twice about just coming inside every time. Dallas evens this series tonight.
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    • IMHO, the bench play has determined the winner of each game.

      Regarding Dallas getting rough, that's not going to stop Miami.

      In game #3, Jason Kidd almost clawed out Chris Bosh's eye and he's the one that hit the winning shot.

      In game #2 a Mavs did something extra rough that had Haslem asking that Mav player - like come on man, what are you doing?

      The teams almost started the process of fighting but I can't remember the specifics.

      But I don't remember any flagrant fouls in this series.

      Getting rough is not going to bother Miami.


      TL
      • [1] reply
    • IMHO, the bench play has determined the winner of each game.

      Regarding Dallas getting rough, that's not going to stop Miami.

      In game #3, Jason Kidd almost clawed out Chris Bosh's eye and he's the one that hit the winning shot.

      In game #2 a Mavs did something extra rough that had Haslem asking that Mav player - like come on man, what are you doing?

      The teams almost started the process of fighting or at least pushing each other but I can't remember the specifics.

      But I don't remember any flagrant fouls in this series.

      Getting rough is not going to bother Miami.


      TL
  • I want this series to go the full 7 games because after it's over we move into what I call the "dead season" no football, no basketball, only baseball which I do not watch until the world series - if I watch it then.

    Also, the longer they play this finals the longer my team remains NBA champs until a new champ is crowned.

    TL
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
    • [2] replies
    • A few points:

      1. Dallas needs another shooter who can score consistently. Nowitzki is a beast. I remember when his post game close to the basket wasn't that strong.

      Now he can post up, turn and face, and hit the outside jumper. He's a seven footer with small forward athleticism. Causes a lot of match up problems.

      2. Miami is slow to rotate to the double team when Dirk gets the ball. Maybe try some ball denial because whenever he touches it he's a threat.

      3. Something happens to Miami when they go up by ten or more. They get lazy. No ball movement (passing) on offense. They spread the floor, isolate, dribble for 20 seconds and and end up taking bad shots. Keep the ball moving. It's easier to find the free man and break down the defense.

      4. Look for both teams to come out fast and furious tonight. Dallas does not want to go down 3-1 and for Miami, well, they smell blood in the water.
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    • This is the part that Tim & I wish would happen SOONER than LATER.

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  • Tim has a point.

    The offensive miscues had me chuckling on many occasions.

    Dallas survives and they did not have to score 90 points.

    As soon as the game started I noticed that the fix was in.

    Lebron played the game in what we call "hostage mode", as if his family was being held hostage and he was instructed to throw the game or else.

    But what I didn't realize was...

    It was Wade!!!!

    Anyways, the Dallas bench thoroughly outplayed Miami's and the rest is history.

    Dallas can win this series especially if they go back to Miami up 3 games to 2.

    TL
    • [1] reply
    • Where was Lebron all night. When the team needed him to SCORE he's nowhere to be found.

      If the Heat win last nigh and go up 3-1 it become awful hard for Dallas to comeback. Instead Lebron's a no-show offensively, Miami breaks down again and the series is tied.

      And let's not forget Dirk had a sinus infection and fever.

      If Lebron wants to be the man he needs to be there in the clutch.
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  • Jordan never had less than 22 in a Finals game and that was over 6 Finals. LeBrick had 8. Had ZERO in the 4th when it's crunch time. He is getting outscored 44 to 9 in the 4th quarter by Dirk. He's not even the best player on his team and is not trusted to take the last shot. Think again people who compare him to Jordan. The media is biased toward LeBron but Dirk and Wade have been "the men." Dirk is finally getting the credit he deserves. Messed up finger and 102 degree flu and is still clutch. Learn a lesson LeBaby from a someone playing like a champion. Go buy some tissues.
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    • That is my opinion also. I think Wade is a better player, plus he has already led his team to a championship.

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  • I"m rooting for Dallas to win. But they seem to have lost all heart. Their defense is substandard and they've lost the hunger they had in the previous series. Unless Dirk gets better and Terry gets fired up, the next game may be a no-contest.
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    • Dirk has been a beast. Playing with a messed up finger and scoring 21 including ANOTHER game winning layup from a guy that mostly shoots when you put the ball in his hands for the win when he has 102 degree temperature and is sitting on the bench trying to gain as much strength as possible. Dirk is doing as well as he could do.
      I do agree with Terry though. He did better this last game though and our bench finally dominated their bench like they should.
      They have plenty of heart or else Dallas would've been eliminated in the sweep. You don't comeback like that by keeping them from scoring for like 5 straight minutes in both comebacks when trailing by 9 and 15. That shows they have the heart and resiliency to win a championship. They're biggest problem are allowing too many offensive boards and too many turnovers. A secondary problem is cold shooting at times. The drive is not the problem. They all have it, most of all Dirk.
  • ITS THE MAVS THAT WILL WIN THE FINALS. The lakers, thunders, bulls and others are eliminated. Only the mavs and heat are battling it out.
  • If Dallas wins tonight then they will go back to Miami up 3-2 and only have to win 1 of the remaining 2 games of the series to become champs.

    Highly possible if they win tonight, but if they don't then they'll have to win both games 6 and 7 in Miami to become champs.

    I don't have the finals stats for what happens to teams that wins game #5 after the teams are tied at 2 games each,

    ... but I bet that teams that wins in this situation go on to win the series at least 70% of the time.

    TL
    • [1] reply
    • I actually heard it was 73% of the time since the 2 - 3 - 2 format in 1985. So you were almost right on.

      But if Dallas wins the series they will only be the first team in 12 tries to win after losing game 3 after splitting the first 2 games. So let's see if they can buck the trend and be the first one.
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  • Woohoo! that was a good game - Dallas is defying the odds!

    I still hope that Mark Cuban chokes on a hotdog before it's over though.
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  • What a final series! I think it's now officially cemented that the Heat belong to Wade and not Lebron...

    I'm hoping the Mavs can take care of business and finish the Heat off on Sunday!!!
  • Mavs scorch the Heat in game five, 112-103.

    It was raining jumpers.

    Looks like Tim was right all along.

    Tim keep saying that Miami simply needed to make a few more shots that they normally been making and the Miami defense had nothing to do with it.

    How about the return of Mr. Barea??

    If Dallas scores 100+ points the heat can not compete.

    Where in the world was Lebron James in the 4th period??????????????????

    When the Heat took a 6 point lead in the fourth, I knew what would happen next - a total collapse of the Heat as Dallas closes the game with a 15-3 run.

    The Dallas starters other than Dirk make major contributions and smack talker supreme Jason Terry stuns Lebron with 21 big points and especially 8 in the 4th vs. only 2 for Lebron.

    This was the fourth straight game in which "The King" scored less than 4 points in the critical fourth helping to cement his rep as a non performer when it matters most.

    What will happen in Miami???

    The Mavs now get 2 chances to finish off the Heat in Miami but is home cooking all that Miami needs???

    If Miami loses this series it's going to be a long, long off season and next season for the Heat and especially Mr. James.

    With Regret...

    I now know that my rein as NBA champ will be over for sure by next Tuesday night - maybe by Monday morn.

    It was good to be the King!


    TL
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  • Joke on Mike and Mike:

    I asked Lebron for change for a dollar and he only gave me 75 cents. I guess he didn't have a 4th quarter.
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    • Nice to see some good shooting by both teams for a change. Dallas needs to win Sunday because I think Miami will win a game 7 if there is one.

      Meanwhile, my Warriors are thinking about trading their best player Monta Ellis and he is their best by far. Not only their best but most exciting. If it happens they would cement their title of team to make the worst trades in NBA history.
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  • Wade & James said the cough was innocent but they anticipated the press making a big deal out of it so they sorta ran with it and Dirk called it childish & ignorant.

    But, if they don't win this series the joke will be on them.

    Miami has lost 2 games in a row and when they get on a roll...

    BTW, the Mavs took 4 in a row from my Lakers and 3 in a row from the Thunder.

    Maybe Dallas has their number, but not tonight.

    I predict the Heat will somehow get a win tonight and force a game 7.

    TL
    • [2] replies
    • Le Bron pulls a disappearing act in last 2 games.. Why?
      Dallas is one game away from champions
      Tonight's the night!!
    • If that's the case, LeCryBaby better step-up and stop acting like nothing is wrong. It's crucial now that he and Wade both play well against this Dallas team.
  • This is a marketing forum...I'm surprised everyone doesn't realize this is definitely going to 7.
    • [2] replies
    • Are you suggesting the games are fixed to go seven games so the NBA can make more money? If that was the case then there would be many more game sevens than there have been. Seven game finals are actually pretty rare. There's only been 3 in the last 22 years.

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    • Oooops #2.

      Somewhere, there's a sportsbook in Las Vegas with your name on it.
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  • Heat wins tonight and we go to game 7.
  • SPAM much? LOL

  • I am happy for Dirk, Kidd, Terry and Marion. Those are four classy, talented players who earned this championship.

    Anyone else notice how the refs actually got it right in that second quarter conflict? I saw one angle that clearly showed Haslem walking straight towards Stevenson. Stevenson simply pushed Haslem away instead of letting him run into him. The broadcast team didn't ever point this out. This was perhaps the turning point of the game.
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    • I like all 4 of those guys enough that Cuban winning the championship didn't bother me all that much.

      And extra props to Jason Terry. After talking "stuff' about Lebron, JT backed it up on the court the last 3 games.
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  • Dallas!! Dallas- the champion, I am very happy for them, very good series!
  • Banned
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    • They are FINITO! They aren't getting squat for the next 20 years (minimum)

      Get over it!!

      Laker and Kobe bandwagon riders need to catch a clue. We have a curse put out on that team!!

      New champs, finally!... And from a team that actually has class (NOT Lakers, Heat, Spurs or Celtics)

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    • Don't forget about tying the Men In Green for most NBA Championships then we can share in the glory of top NBA Franchise before we pass them and then take all the glory for ourselves within the next 7 years.

      That is my fondest hope as a Laker Fan.

      All The Best!!

      TL
  • I'm also glad that Dallas won. I don't like Mark Cuban much either, but he played it classier than normal after the game by keeping the focus off of himself. Thankfully! Otherwise he might have ruined for me an otherwise really good series.

    I just couldn't stand the Heat, and the whole arrogant way they started their season. As long as they have that arrogant attitude, I'll thoroughly enjoy watching them eat some humble pie.
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    • My wife delights in the Heat's failure and often points to the overblown hype when they were originally constituted by Pat Of Riley as the reason for her hatred.

      TL
  • I was wrong when I predicted the Heat would win last night and force a 7th game.

    I knew that Dallas was a streaky team and they won 3 in a row to take the crown.

    Also, The King's most recent attempt at the crown was rebuffed by the basketball gods as the heat misses 13 big free throws and "bows" to the Mavericks Of Dallas 105-95 to go down in flames in a mere 6 games.

    It has been whispered to me by the basketball gods that good foul shooting is a matter of composure and it also appears...

    ...The Heat, AKA Miami Thrice, constituted by Patrick Riley to found a dynasty ( British pronunciation )...

    ... cracked under the intense pressure of the NBA Finals on early 21st Century Planet Earth in their first attempt...

    ...and now they must live with themselves forevermore - until they win at least 1 championship together.


    But I must mention the the guy who truly cracked up on the beach, the player who committed most of the Heat mistakes like...

    ... stupid passes, rushed shots, after-burned by Jet, missing foul shots, forcing issues, etc.

    I mean the guy was really getting obvious and ridiculous. (IMHO)

    His plus/minus for the game was 24 huge points - meaning while he was in the game, his team was outscored by 24 points - a very large and unusual number indicating just how bad he played in the biggest game of his life.

    His offensive flashes were not enough and ill timed.

    Whatever's going on, he's needs to be prepared for a long, not only off season but the rest of his life - until he wins a championship.

    It just hit me!

    Rick Caryle reminds me of Jim Cary.

    Hail to the victors, and...

    Congratulations to the NEW Kings Of The NBA & their MVP.

    Dirk, The MVP, The Jet, Jason The Kidd, Jose, Tyson, Ferguson and the rest of the team.


    I believe Dirk is the first alpha dog of an NBA Champion born in a foreign land. Oh, I almost forgot about Akeem the Dream.

    But Dirk is the first European born and will be celebrated as a God on the continent forevermore.

    Mr. Cuban show a serious touch of class by allowing the original owner of the Mavs to be the first one to officially hoist the trophy.

    Now I see where they get the logo for the Mavs.

    We served with honor and dignity and now the responsibility belongs to The Mavericks Of Dallas.

    I said very early on that the team that beat the champs ought to be the champs and it came to pass.

    All The Best!!

    TL
    • [2] replies
    • I think I heard there's been 4 non-US born finals MVP.

      Akeem
      Dirk

      And I believe Tim Duncan was born in the Virgin Islands, but is that considered the US?

      Were Manu or Tony Parker ever finals MVPs? But would they be top dogs?
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    • First and foremost congratulations to the Dallas Mavericks. They played one hell of a series and I was sure Miami would force a game seven.

      Terry and Nowitzki saw to it that didn't happen.

      For a while there I thought I was watching playground ball and LeBron was trying to impress some girl by showing how high he could jump and how fast he could run... without actually scoring.

      Miami made some terrible decisions with the ball. They really need a proper point guard to run the offense.

      Oh, and just do you know the Lakers suck .....(not really but I really don't like them).

      Can wait till next year.
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  • Congrats, Dallas!
  • At least LeBron ended this on a nice classy high note:

    Don't expect loathing of LeBron to stop - NBA - Yahoo! Sports
    • [2] replies
    • Does this guy have a publicist???

      If so he needs a new one and If not he needs to get one.

      If this continues, I'm afraid some kook will try to hurt the guy.

      He asked for the spotlight and now he has it.

      He sold more jerseys than any other NBA player this season but will he next season?


      TL
    • Wow! What a completely classless arrogant prick he is!

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  • Question???

    If you were the Heat GM (aka Pat Riley) would you make a run at Dwight Howard for James/Wade??
    • [2] replies
    • Orlando won't trade him. Plus, he's going to be a free agent next year and my sources say he will sign with the Warriors. Miami is stuck with Wade and Lebron I'm afraid.


    • This year I feel the Heat were the 2nd best team in basketball and they will be back next year as a serious contender for the crown barring injuries.

      They don't need to breakup the trio just yet.

      There should be at least one title in their future.


      TL
  • Wow, even though my Lakers didn't win it all, I'd have to say this year's playoff was really fun to watch. I'm glad Dirk, Kidd, and Terry all got their rings. I'm hoping the eastern conference improves a lot next year, and Heat fall short of the Finals
    • [1] reply
    • My dream is that next year the Lakers, Spurs, Celtics AND Heat all fall short of the play-offs.

      Also I'd like to see my Suns and the Golden State Warriors in there next year too.. That would be great!

      Football is next... GO CARDS!

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  • The curse is strong TL... You can't stop it!
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    • Dude, you don't even have the right to curse.

      OK, OK, since you went to a NBA finals one time, you have the right.


      But I hereby claim the "Right Of The First Night" on the new brides of your kingdom in the Valley Of The Sun.

      All The Best!!


      TL
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  • next year ...
  • Any WNBA fans here?

    Hopefully this lockout doesn't last too long, and the Lakers will be back on top!
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    • [2] replies
    • I would absolutely hate to have 2 seasons shortened or possibly cancelled due to this labor strife. Especially when I have high hopes for my Mavs after last seasons title and also I'm still hoping the Cowboys return back to playoff form and actually go deeper this year. As of right now, it's looking like all I'm going to have is a hope of a Ranger repeat and college sports. Could be worse. I could only have soccer or tennis to watch.
    • Aren't the women's team the Sparks?? :confused:

      Sorry Natalie, but the Lakers won't be back on top anytime soon.


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  • Aremen "The Hammer" Gilliam passed away yesterday during a pickup BBall game at the age of 47 from an apparent heart attack...
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  • Go Lakers
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    • We'll be back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  • Banned
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  • Boston City Hall Plaza chosen for Russell statue:

    Looks like Boston is going to raise a statue for it's greatest sports figure.

    That's 11 championships in 13 years for the Men In Green and the city of Boston.

    Many came at the expense of my Lakers.

    Story here...

    Boston City Hall Plaza chosen for Russell statue

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