Tag Archive for 'nba playoffs'

End of an Era?

Published
by
Chris Iafolla
on May 30, 2008
in NBA
. 0 Comments

As my brother so astutely pointed out in the previous post, what seemed a forgone conclusion in recent days came to fruition last night when Kobe and the Lakers put the proverbial nail in the coffin.  In the end, youth and energy trumped savvy and experience.  Bellyache all you want about non-calls, conspiracy theories and injury problems–it doesn’t change the fact that the Lakers simply were the better team and proved it emphatically.

So for the first time in eight years, we will watch an NBA championship that does not contain men by the name of Duncan or O’Neal.  So the question then becomes, did we just witness the end of an era–both in the sense of the closing of the window on the Spurs dynasty and the era of big men dominance in the NBA?

Each point warrants its own examination (and potentially its own post) so let’s take them one at a time.

The Spurs:

Call it what you want: dynasty, prolonged success, it really doesn’t matter, it’s impossible to deny the success of the Spurs over the last decade.  This is a team that has won four championships during that time and has been a legitimate contender every year.  But their demise this year felt a bit different didn’t it?  This is a team that has never been shy about finishing games that seem to be out of reach–something they failed to do twice in this series with the Lakers.  More than that, the Spurs seemed to be outworked and out willed, something I have never seen happen in my time watching the current variation of the Spurs.  Part of that is a result of simply running up against Kobe Bryant.  Say what you want about him, but the man can play.  He wasn’t going to let his team leave the Staples Center without a Western conference title.

So was this the end of the Spurs?  Are they finally too old?  Is Tim Duncan no longer able to carry a team?  Has the wear of a decade’s worth of extended seasons finally taken its toll?  If you looked at this past series in a vacuum, the temptation would be to write off the Spurs next year.  That would be a mistake.  This is a team that has its entire core group of players signed for at least the next two seasons.  Sure, Tim Duncan might be on the decline, but he isn’t finished yet.  A quick injection of youth and athleticism will have the Spurs right back in the thick of the race next season and possibly one more beyond that.  Let’s not  make this one series out to be more than it is for the sake of manufacturing some drama.

The Fall of the Big Man:

This question is a little bit tougher to answer.  Slowly but surely over the past decade, the NBA has been methodically moving to a different brand of basketball that favors athleticism and agility over size and strength.  It started with the European invasion.

When Europeans began entering this league in bunches, they brought with them a brand of basketball that favored a broad set of skills over specialty players.  Players like Toni Kukoc, Detlef Shrempf, Arvydas Sabonis and Sarunas Marciulionis typified this brand of basketball.  Over time, this philosophy had a trickle effect across the league and as players like Hakeem Olajuwon, Patrick Ewing and David Robinson retired–the face of the game looked quite different.

But even in recent years, teams with dominant big men have gone on to win titles (with the notable exception of the Detroit Pistons).  This is probably why teams continue to put a premium on size by drafting Greg Oden and Andrew Bynum with number one picks.  This year is different.  Whatever team wins this year will do so without a traditional dominant big man (apologies to Gasol and Garnett).

I would contend that this year’s NBA playoffs have been a microcosm of the shift that has been taking place over the past few years-the game is moving toward a more guard-dominated league.

Now I know the next argument: the Suns tried the small ball approach and abandoned it in favor of adding the traditional big man to the mix.  To that I would say: “yea, how’d that turn out?”  The Suns abandoned the small ball approach–not the guard dominated approach.  There is a significant difference.  The Suns’ offense was based on the premise that a shot had to go up in seven seconds or less.  Ultimately, this created a tempo of basketball ill-suited for the playoffs and for teams that could impost a physical presence.

As players like Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Lebron James, Dwayne Wade and next year, Derek Rose continue to emerge, you will see teams grow more comfortable with the idea of a guard dominated team.  If this most recent playoffs was any indication, you better get used to the idea, because it’s already here.

Spurs/Lakers Series Over: A Little Whining From the Writer (Maybe a Conspiracy Theory Too)

Published
by
Anthony Iafolla
on May 29, 2008
in NBA
. 6 Comments

Contrary to what my brother has previously reported (see below), the Spurs are definitely dead.  This is a painful time for me, as I work in an office filled with annoying Lakers fans.  Now I understand the pain, although nowhere near the magnitude, that my buddy Zamp was trying to convey to me after the Giants won the Super Bowl.  He had to go to work everyday in Jersey surrounded by Giants fans, and being a die hard Eagles fan, that is painful.  Either way, the Spurs and Lakers will meet tonight in Game 5 at the Staples Center, and Kobe Bryant will most likely see to it that he and his Lakers teammates do not have to board another plan en route to San Antonio. 

I had been holding out hope that I would not have to see the freakin’ Lakers and Kobe Bryant much more, but it looks like I was wrong.  The worst part about this series is that it has left me with a lot of “what ifs?”  I watched Game 4 in anguish as the veteran Spurs seemed to be allergic to ACTUALLY taking the lead.  They must have tied that game up 6 different times, only to miss wide open looks to take the lead for the first time.  The Spurs have no one to blame but themselves for being in this position.  They have not earned themselves a spot in the NBA Finals. They let the Lakers off the hook.  There is no chance now that the Spurs can win 3 games in a row, two of which would be in Los Angeles.  What this means is I need to spend a few minutes whining and complaining about things that matter very little.  So the pain continues for me. 

Do I think this series would have played out differently if Manu Ginobili could actually move?  Absolutely.  Do I think that the spoiled brat Kobe would be MVP or the Lakers would have even gotten out of the first round if they never were handed Pau Gasol on a shiny platter?  No I do not.  Is it a damn travesty that Joe Crawford, who was basically suspended for his feud with Tim Duncan and the Spurs was allowed to ref a pivotal playoff game?  You’re damn right it is.  Don’t even get me started on that one.  Can you say conspiracy theory? 

Then there is the Brent Barry last second non foul call.  It’s like the NBA welcomes the conspiracy theories.  I am not saying the NBA has instructed officials to help the Lakers reach the finals, or better yet just stop the Spurs from getting back.  But, that doesn’t mean it looks good.  All those who refuse to admit that are just fooling themselves.  No way Crawford should have been anywhere near that arena.  None.  Not in the era of the Tim Donaghy scandal. Who was the official closest to that play?  Oh, that would be Joe Crawford. 

Yesterday the NBA announced that a 2 shot foul should have been called on Derek Fisher.  Sweet!  Thank you David Stern.  Brent Barry definitely should have gone into the air when he had Fisher off balance and forced a foul call, but somehow I doubt that even that would have mattered.  I realize this is all just spilt milk.  I needed to vent, and it would have been much more entertaining if my editor would let me use the words that I really wanted to.  I have to work tonight, and I will be recording Game 5, but I am sure one of the stupid ass Laker fans in my office will let me know the result long before I have watched the game.  I still cling to a sliver of hope that a miracle can happen, but I am not going to hold my breath.  It sure looks like we are headed towards EXACTLY what the NBA wanted all along:  A Celtics versus Lakers NBA Finals.  I will have to sedate myself to get through those two agonizing weeks.

Spurs Not Dead Yet

Published
by
Chris Iafolla
on May 26, 2008
in NBA
. 0 Comments

Too old.  Too slow.  Not enough offensive firepower.  Play an ugly brand of basketball.  Their time has passed.

Sound familiar?  It should.

These are the standard descriptors most often used when discussing the San Antonio Spurs.  It’s a time-honored tradition of the NBA playoffs–write off the Spurs as a team that can’t possibly get it done one more time.  It’s astonishing really when you put it into perspective.

This is a team that has won four titles in the last decade…a team with probably the greatest power forward to play this game as its anchor.  This is a team that plays at the defensive end of the floor the way the game was meant to be played.  Yet we somehow continue to question the ability of the Spurs to advance in the playoffs for any reason we manage to conjure out of thin air.

I’m not throwing stones here–I am guilty of this as well as evidenced by my prediction of the Spurs’ first round demise.  But since that point, I won’t count the Spurs out of this series or any other from here on out.  This team has a level of mental toughness that no other team remaining in the playoffs can claim with the possible exception of the Detroit Pistons.

This is not a team that is rattled by a 2-0 deficit.  No.  Where some teams make the mistake of believing that the NBA playoffs are about bursts of intensity, the Spurs realize that in order to be the one left standing when all is said and done it is about a consistently high level of intensity.

Just like the Hornets series, last night was a shining example of why the Spurs are never quite dead.  Last night, instead of their marquee player leading them to victory, it was Manu Ginobili leading the charge.  Publicly critical of his own play thus far in the series, Manu answered the call by pouring in 30 points against the vaunted Lakers.

And that is the difference with these Spurs.  Never rattled, the Spurs turned to their second offensive weapon to lead them to victory when the season was on the line.  So like I said, before, until the Spurs lose a game on their home floor, I won’t count them out of any series.  And if it gets to a game 7, old, slow, lack of offensive firepower and ugly basketball will suddenly translate to battle-tested, crafty, controls the tempo of the game and plays lock down defense.  Sounds like a winning formula to me.

NBA Conference Finals Preview

Published
by
Anthony Iafolla
on May 20, 2008
in NBA
. 4 Comments

We’re down to the Final Four in the NBA Playoffs.  As far as my picks, I have so far done well in the Eastern Conference, and not too well in the Western Conference (some of that due to my desire to see the Lakers go down).  Although I did say a couple weeks ago that I felt the Spurs would replace the Suns and go to the Finals.  I think we have two great match-ups here, so let’s break it all down. 

Pistons vs Celtics

This is the match-up that has been expected pretty much since the beginning of the season.  You can throw the regular season games out the window.  The playoffs are here.  This should be an awesome series to watch.  It won’t always be pretty, but it will be physical, intense, and most likely come down to execution in the fourth quarter.  These are probably the two best defensive teams in the NBA.  What I love about this series is that these two teams do not like each other and it is filled with some great individual match-ups.  The Pistons are seasoned and rested.  They have been here before.  Many of the Celtics have not.  The Celtics have gone through two grueling seven game series, but have not faced the type of test they will get from the Pistons.  How will they respond?  Let’s look at the match-ups: 

1)       Point Guard- If Chauncey Billups’ hamstring is healthy, then this is one sided.  Rajon Rondo has made strides in these playoffs and he hit some big shots against the Cavs, but he has not proven that he can do it consistently.  Chauncey?  Been there, done that.  With his size and strength advantage over Rondo, I look for the Pistons to use Billups in the post more often.  I am curious to see how Rondo reacts under the pressure of getting the Celtics back to the Finals.  I have a feeling he might look like a deer in headlights.

2)       Shooting Guard- I’ve always loved Rip.  Although the whole mask thing has dropped him a couple notches for me.  I remember seeing his Coatesville team go up against Kobe Bryant’s Lower Merion team back in high school.  Ray Allen has looked like he aged 40 years since the end of the regular season.  The Celtics need Allen to step up and they should make a conscious effort to run him off screens and get him in a rhythm early.  I think both these guys will have a good series.  With the great team defense played by both teams, no one will blow you away with their high field goal percentage.  I still give a slight advantage to the Pistons in this match-up.

3)       Small Forward- This is a great match-up.  For most of the Cavs series, I though Paul Pierce did a great job defending LeBron James.  His offense suffered because of it.  Until, of course, Game 7.  Pierce impressed the hell out of me, and it’s a good thing, too.  The player previously known as Ray Allen was not helping much, and KG certainly wasn’t going to carry the Celtics in a tight Game 7.  I look for Tayshaun Prince to play the role of Paul Pierce here.  Prince probably will not contribute much offensively, save a few threes, but his main focus will be on stopping Pierce.  We all know that Prince can defend anybody.  He has about a 94 foot wingspan.  Prince should do a great job on Pierce, putting more pressure on Garnett and Allen.  I still think Pierce will have a few games where he is just on.  So offensively, Pierce will certainly contribute more, but this is still a close one.  Slight edge to the Celtics.

4)       Power Forward- You are not going to find too many match-ups better than this one.  I could go on and on about it, but I wouldn’t do that to you.  Both are great defenders, and both are important offensively as well.  They probably will not spend the entire time guarding each other, but when they do it will be physical and fun.  Wallace has way more big game experience, but Garnett is hungry.  Maybe he will finally shake the reputation of not taking over big games when his team needs it.  I doubt it, but maybe.  Wallace will mix in his three point shooting, post moves, and great defense.  Same for Garnett, except his outside shooting will be a little closer to the basket.  Both guys are great competitors and I think both will play well.  I am sure I will get some crap for this but I see this one as a draw.  Garnett is great, but Wallace will be great at the exact moments his team needs him to be.  Will Garnett?

5)       Center- Both Kendrick Perkins and Antonio McDyess are responsible for doing the little things.  Defend, rebound, get easy put-backs, keeping plays alive.  McDyess does possess the ability to hit the open 14-18 footer.  I don’t see any clear edge in this match-up.  I’ll call this a draw.

6)       Bench- Detroit and Boston have excellent benches.  Typically, teams do not get this far in the playoffs with weak benches.  Bench play usually just comes down to who is going to step up from game to game and make an imprint.  There are plenty of guys capable on both sides.  Even Sam “The Alien” Cassell.  Guys like Posey, Powe, and House for the Celtics, and Hunter, Maxiell, and Stuckey, will go far in determining who comes out on top in this grudge match. If fouls become an issue, the benches will have an even greater impact.  It’s hard to really call a favorite here.  We’ll see how they react once the pressure is on.I have already written that I think the Pistons win in seven.  I actually think it could be six, but I will stick with seven.  Yes, seven.  The Pistons can win on the road.  There’s a novel idea!  I think it is important for the Pistons to win game 1 and put the pressure on Boston.  Either way, this is going to be closely contested, physical, and fun to watch. 

Spurs vs Lakers

Everybody at this point knows what I want to see happen.  Especially so that I do not have to pay out some bets that I made with friends of mine who are Lakers fans.  I previously picked the Suns to be here, and then, using a mulligan, said that the Spurs would be here.  I was hoping the Jazz would take the Lakers out, but that turned out to be wishful thinking.  Now, I worry that with Kobe Bryant able to smell the Finals, it’s too late to stop the Lakers.  Ahhh… But of course, they are playing the defending world champions.  A team that already has 4 rings to boast about.  Will the Spurs end my misery of watching the Lakers cruise to the NBA Finals?  Man, I hope so.  This promises to be another hard fought, tightly contested series. 

1)       Point Guard- The more I watch Derek Fisher, the more respect I gain for him.  He plays hard and physical defense.  He almost never misses an open jumper.  He hits clutch shots in almost every game.  His counterpart, Tony Parker, is one of the fastest and quickest players in the NBA.  Not an easy match-up for Fisher.  Parker will try to get in the lane and set up easy baskets for teammates as well as run the break when it is open.  I will give a slight edge to Parker in this battle.

2)       Shooting Guard- The interesting thing in this series is the defensive match-ups.  Ginobili will not be guarding Kobe.  Bruce Bowen and Kobe Bryant will renew their long lasting love fest.  I don’t think I even need to go into either Manu or Kobe’s credentials at this point.  They are both great. Kobe, of course, is all time great.  What is great about this series is that it is filled with players that will step up in the clutch.  I am not enough of a hater to give the edge to the Spurs here.  Edge to the Lakers.

3)       Small Forward- Bruce Bowen’s main job will be to try and slow down, frustrate, elbow, scratch, kick and do whatever else is necessary to Kobe Bryant.  He will find himself open for the corner three from time to time, and he needs to knock those down.  Lamar Odom almost always poses match-up problems with his ability to handle and shoot.  Again, I reiterate that match-ups will be key in this series.  Both team will be moving different defenders around, so it’s hard to talk about head to head, but I give the edge to Odom and the Lakers here.

4)       Power Forward- The Lakers have absolutely no one that can guard Tim Duncan, so I look for a huge series from him.  I’m sure Phil Jackson will throw double teams and different bodies at Duncan, but Gasol, or Turiaf, and whoever else do not stand a chance.  Radmanovic is mainly just an outside shooter and to be effective and even have an impact he must hit shots.  Huge edge to the Spurs.

5)       Center- Oberto is another dirty work guy.  Gasol is another case of a guy who will create match-up problems for the Spurs.  He can inside and out with great efficiency.  What bothers me about Gasol is that he’s so soft.  That being said he and the Lakers have a huge advantage here.

6)       Bench- Both teams have great benches, but I do think that the Lakers have a younger and fresher bench.  It seems that everyone that comes off the bench of both team has the ability to play well and hit shots.  The Spurs bench is experienced, and it remains to be seen how the Lakers bench will perform as the series rolls on.  I call this one even. There are so many great match-ups and players in this series that you just know its going to be great.  Two great coaches involved in a chess match.  The Spurs have the experience, but they might have tired legs.  The Lakers have Kobe Bryant.  This is a tough one to call, and it will come down to defense and execution.  I just feel that at the end of the day, the Spurs have enough in them to take down the Lakers in seven.  Again, the Spurs need to steal one of the first two, or else Kobe will smell blood and drop 50 in San Antonio to put the Spurs against the wall.  

I don’t care what anybody says about the Spurs being boring and all that crap.  Both these series are going to be entertaining and great for the NBA.  These are the four teams that should be here.  It will be a great couple weeks in the NBA, and I can’t wait to see how it plays out.  Let’s all kick back and enjoy the games.

Lakers vs. Jazz Game 2 Diary From the Cheap Seats

Published
by
Anthony Iafolla
on May 8, 2008
in NBA
. 1 Comment

Ok, so I have a few things that I am working on that I will be posting soon, but because of that, for this one I decided to steal a format from a writer that I admire, Bill Simmons.  I decided to write a real time blog on last night’s game between the Lakers and Jazz.  This is a first for me so you will have to cut me some slack.  It will probably end up being a bit of a confusing mess, but that’s what my mind is anyway.  Basically I just sat down and took notes as it was happening and what I was thinking from a fan’s perspective.  I must admit, however, that I am writing this as a resident of Los Angeles who cannot stand the Lakers.  I am not a Jazz fan either, but anything is better than seeing the Lakers win.  If you have been checking out this site, you should know that I picked the Lakers to lose to the Jazz, but admit that I will probably end up being wrong.  So, without further ado… 

Kobe is awarded the 2007-2008 MVP ( I still don’t agree), and he tells the crowd at the end of a brief speech “let’s get this party started”.  I am sure he is looking to show his MVP credentials tonight.  

1st Quarter

I think the Jazz really need to get off to a quick start to build some confidence.  They need to play this game from in front and not try and make a furious comeback like they did in Game 1.  Here’s the tip…Nice omen!…24 second violation on the first possession for the Jazz.  Pretty inexcusable, I think.  It seems that Kirilenko is aggressive here early.  It seems like he is aggressive once every five games.  Ronnie Brewer is starting the game guarding Kobe.  Good luck.  Both teams have started out this game trading baskets and hitting their shots.  The match-up with Okur guarding Odom is ugly.  Okur is in quicksand on the defensive end compared to Odom.  With 8 minutes left in the quarter Kirilenko makes a great defensive play on Kobe who was going in for a layup.  They cannot make it easy on Kobe.  Maybe Derek Fisher’s days spent guarding Deron Williams in practice last year are paying dividends because, just like in Game 1, Williams just cannot get going.

Lakers 15-13 at first timeout – 6:25 to go in the 1st

What the hell has happened to Carlos Boozer?  Has anyone seen him?  This seems to be a physical game, the way the Jazz like it, on both sides, yet it took 8 minutes and finally a whistle is blown against the Lakers.  I guess David Stern doesn’t want Kobe’s night ruined or the path of the Lakers to the finals impeded.  On cue, Sloan gets T’d up with 3:38 left and I don’t blame him.  To have a chance, the Jazz need to be physical.  Let ‘em play!  Sweet!…Lakers go on a 13-0 run here to take a 25-13 lead.  Not what the Jazz need.  Now I have to listen to Doug Collins wax poetic about Kobe.  I am sick of the Kobe love fest.  The dude would still be bitching if they hadn’t stolen Gasol.  Lakers fans should chant MVP for Chris Wallace, the Grizzlies GM.  Hey, what do ya know?  The Jazz go to the line for the first time in the quarter with 2:31 left.  The Jazz are occasionally switching to a 2-3 zone and the Lakers are killing it with ball movement.  Harpring gets called for  an offensive foul for doing the exact same thing in the post that Kobe does every time.  That being said, the Jazz all look scared to shoot the ball, especially Brewer.  He looks like he has a hot potato in his hand when he gets the ball.  The quarter ends badly for the Jazz.  The Lakers have 2 big runs.  So much for getting off to a good start for Utah.  The Lakers looked great shooting 66 % compared to 33 % for the Jazz.  Why does Utah suck on the road?Lakers 33-18 at end of the 1st quarter

Again in between quarters Jerry Sloan comments to David Aldridge that he feels like the refs are calling it way too close on the Jazz, saying, “We can’t touch ‘em”.  I agree. 

2nd Quarter

Another great sign: Boozer gets his 3rd foul on the first play and has to sit.  On a side note, I wish my name was Boozer.  The Lakers are just way more aggressive, including their bench.  Millsap is the only Jazz to go hard at the rack.  That should account for the free throw disparity, but I still don’t think its being called even.  Doug Collins just used the word “lucky” in describing the Gasol trade.  I finally agree with something!  Damn.  Matt Harpring has as much of a soft touch as I would after my hands were dipped into a bucket of cement and then dried.  The Jazz are actually playing better with Boozer and Williams out of the game which will not lead to a victory.  Ahh.  Okur is redefining the word slow as Gasol posterizes him.  He can’t guard anyone!

Lakers 45-34 at timeout- 5:46 left in the 2nd

The Jazz need to get some stops here to end the half.  Williams need to get in the lane and the Jazz must finish.  Its not happening though as the Lakers are owning every match up.  Gasol is crushing Okur and Fisher is dominating Williams.  Deron Williams just scored his first points of the game with 2:40 left.  Bad sign.  So the half is over and the Jazz went the opposite direction of what I said and did not close out strong.  Lakers shoot 61% for the half and the Jazz get 3 points between Williams and Boozer.  Freakin’ ugly!

Lakers 63-49- HALFTIME

Halftime may end up being the best part of the night for me.  That and the beef soft tacos I made and the Heineken I am drinking.  Charles Barkley says, “They don’t think they can beat the Lakers”.  I absolutely agree.  They have looked scared.  Barkley refers to himself as “the Chuckster”.  I love this guy.  I want to go drinking and gambling and then play a round of golf with him.  What the hell was that?  A bug in Barkley’s mug.  Was that real or fake?  TNT is way better than ESPN for these games. 

3rd Quarter

The Jazz need to get off to a quick start or this game is over.  Come on boys!  Make this interesting.  Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Carlos Boozer to the arena.  He gets an easy layup to start the half.  Maybe that will get him going.  Basketball is funny like that.  On his night, I am now looking for Kobe to take over.  On a side note, Boozer hits a jumper, but I decided he may have the ugliest in the league.  Deron Williams looks like a new man.  Where the hell has this aggressiveness been buddy?  It matters little though as the Jazz cannot guard the Lakers, and right on cue Kobe is taking over.  The Jazz are just trading buckets and can’t cut into the lead.

Lakers 80-66 at timeout- 5:21 left in the 3rd

Coming out of this timeout I think the Jazz need to get this thing to single digits by the end of the quarter to have a chance.  They need Mr. Mo Mentum to change his address.  Unfortunately, Kobe is showing the Jazz that he is the MVP.  Williams is getting into the lane on every possession, but it seems too little too late.  The Jazz look great offensively, but the problem remains their inability to even make it semi-difficult for the Lakers to score.  I think I would just aggressively double team Kobe and get it out of his hands as much as possible and pray the Lakers miss a few open shots.  What the hell else should they do?  Nothing has worked yet.  Wow!  What a drive and dunk by Williams, but it was followed by Fisher easily getting into the lane on the other end and Boozer picking up his 4th foul.  A microcosm of this game right there.

Lakers 86-76 at timeout- 2:15 left in the 3rd

Great defensive play there by Brewer leading to a dunk and the Jazz are down 8.  Get a stop!They get a stop but now both team are just turning it over back and forth.  Terrible possessions by the Jazz.  Harpring gets toasted by Kobe leading to a Fisher three.  Lakers are up 13, right back where the quarter started.  Huge shot by Williams from three to cut the lead to 10 to end the quarter!  Kobe had 15 in the quarter.  Here he comes.

Lakers 93-83 at end of the 3rd quarter 4th Quarter

The Jazz cannot trade baskets anymore.  The beginning of this quarter will be huge.  Lakers come out with their bench along side Pau Gasol.  I am saying BS on that!!!!  Williams was obviously hacked at the rim and no call which led to a Lakers break.  That call better go the other way in Utah.  Ok.  Harpring is destroying the Jazz.  He inexplicably doubles Jordan Farmar leaving Walton wide open for a three!  Jordan Farmar!  Then he airballs a three of his own.  Please put Boozer back in Jerry! 

Lakers 98-89 at timeout- 7:50 left in 4th

The Jazz have to score here out of the timeout.  I wonder if Phil Jackson will insert Kobe to close the deal.  Ummm…I am not a proven NBA coach like Jerry Sloan, but the I am in shock here!  Jazz come out of the timeout with Williams on the bench.  Phil has inserted Kobe like I thought, and the Jazz best player is on the bench just as they were building momentum with Williams as the catalyst.  It may be too late by the time he comes back in.  He’s 24 years old!  I think he can play the last 8 minutes of a huge playoff game for crying out loud!  Need a sip of Heineken.  Ok, I am better now.   Matt Harpring actually hits a big shot to make it 98-92!  Making him about 2 for 50 in the series.   Huge play there.  Jazz were down 6 on the break and Millsap misses a lay up to cut it to 4, followed by Kobe getting fouled on the other end.  Can’t miss easy ones on the road guys!  Williams Back in.  Thank God.  Can the Jazz stop letting Harpring touch the ball?  Seriously.

Lakers 99-92 at timeout- 5:58 left in the 4th

If the Jazz are going to actually steal this, the next 3 minutes are gigantic.  It has to start with defense.  I am figuring Kobe is going to take over.  Big jumper by “the Machine”.  Boozer sucks.  Gets blocked twice on the same possession.  Fisher hits a big three to make it 104-94 and I think that’s the beginning of the end.  Jazz made their run and the Lakers punched back.  They have hit every open shot tonight.  I give them credit.  After a great 3 point play by AK47 cuts it to 8, Kobe makes an amazing dish to Gasol.  That was ridiculous.  I’m not sure anyone else makes that play.

Lakers 109-99 at timeout- 2:24 left in the 4th

It’s not looking good for Utah.  Kobe will not allow the Lakers to lose this game.  The Jazz cannot hit a big shot.  I must say, I still do not agree with Sloan taking Williams out in the 4th.  It seems he has lost his rhythm since he returned.  Some meaningless threes here by the Jazz.  As the clock winds down I am thinking that the Jazz beter find a way to start faster by Friday or they will be going home for good.  They can’t defend Kobe Bryant, Boozer has been terrible, and the Lakers are doing whatever they want offensively.  Man I hate watching the Lakers win!  It makes me sick to my stomach.  Or is that the tacos?  Williams and Boozer need to be aggressive from the tip in Utah.

Lakers 120-110- FINAL

Just a little more bitching from me.  Just following Kobe’s lead.  Lakers shot 43 foul shots to the Jazz 16.  Come on!  Also, I just threw up in my mouth as Kenny and Chuck were talking about how scary the Lakers will be for the next 5 years.  I am moving to Alaska.  My night just ended well, though.  Charles Barkley was tricked into saying “I’m a dumbass”, as they put it on the teleprompter.  Let’s see if the Jazz can make some adjustments and play better in front of their home crowd.  If not the Lakers will be prepping for the Western Conference Finals.    

NBA PLAYOFFS: Round 2

Published
by
Anthony Iafolla
on May 6, 2008
in NBA
. 2 Comments

So the first round of the NBA Playoffs is in the books.  The second round has already gotten underway, but my picks were already on paper.  And so far not too bad!  The only pick I missed was the Spurs defeating the Suns.  I have already stated that obviously my pick of the Suns making it to the finals was way off.  I also felt all along the winner of that series would make it out of the West, so that means the Spurs against the Pistons.  Like I said, Pistons in seven.  Let’s do a brief breakdown of how I see this second round playing out. 

Pistons vs. Magic

I stated earlier that I saw the Pistons in 6 here.  So far, the Pistons have taken care of the home court.  Since I write this after the series has taken shape, I think maybe the Pistons close the Magic out in Game 5.  They had their wake up call against the Sixers and now they are in high gear,  with Billups being the catalyst.  When his game is on and his shots are falling they are tough to stop.  The Pistons are just too tough defensively and the mismatches they can create on the offensive end are glaring in this one.  The Magic will steal one, but it looks like that is it. 

Celtics vs. Cavaliers

So my pick when the playoffs began was the Celtics in six.  I have to stick with it, but I will say I have some reservations about the Celtics after watching them against the Hawks.  Losing all three in Atlanta is not the stuff of a champion.  Also, Boston’s defense has been praised all year, and rightly so, but a defensive weakness was exposed against Atlanta.  The Celtics showed an inability to stop penetration.  Lucky for them, the Cavs offense does not provide a lot of slashers.  But, they do have LeBron James as we know, and the Celtics have no one to match up with him.  I think the Celtics are going to have problems in this one and Garnett really needs to step up.  For a guy that plays with as much passion as he does, the dude sure does seem to crap himself at the end of games.  He does not look to score.  Can’t have that and win it all.  This is going to be a fun one. 

Hornets vs. Spurs

Obviously I had the Suns here and had them moving on, and as I write this the Hornets have now dismantled the Spurs in the first 2 games.  They have made Tim Duncan look like Jon Koncak (I know weird reference, but it somehow popped into my head so I went with it).  Chris Paul is just ridiculously good.  It’s scary how good he is.  He has become a favorite player of mine to watch.  I still feel the old-timers will right the ship in San Antonio, even up the series and win this thing in 7.  They cannot guard Paul, but they almost need to let him score.  The Hornets become tough to beat when all their shooters are wide open because the lane has collapsed to stop Paul.  I also think the Spurs will realize they have to get the ball to Duncan as much as possible.  He should touch the ball every possession.  I think they step up, tighten up  the defense and start to frustrate the young Hornets.  Another great series to watch. 

Lakers vs. Jazz

Ok, so I have already picked the Jazz in 7 so again I have to stick with it.  For the purpose of full disclosure I must say that I live in Los Angeles and HATE the Lakers.  I convinced myself that they will lose.  I do not want to think of the flip side.  I have made a few bets that may end up making my wallet a bit lighter, but screw it!  That’s my stubborn side.  I have to be honest though.  I think I will end up wrong.  The Jazz simply have no answer whatsoever for Kobe.  I am hoping that in Utah they can ride their fans to victories but we shall see.  Let’s just say I picked the Jazz but have a feeling that I was wrong and the Lakers are going to close this out early.  They have too many weapons.  The chance that the Jazz have is to control the boards and be as aggressive as possible on the offensive end.  Take it to the Lakers.  They have to hit their perimeter shots as well or they are done.  I can’t write anymore on this because I am about to punch myself in the face repeatedly.  Maybe Mehmet Okur will average 52 points a game.  I think I hit myself too hard.  Here’s hoping the Jazz can make me look good, but I am doubting it now. 

So that’s how I see it.  I will preview the conference finals when they happen.  And if any one has seen the editor and chief of this site (AKA…my brother), tell him I’m coming for him.  Lazy ass.

Early Returns on NBA Playoffs Are Solid

Published
by
Chris Iafolla
on April 21, 2008
in NBA
. 4 Comments

It happens often: sporting events are hyped up so much that it is near impossible for them to live up to the high expectations. With every columnist and blogger on the planet (including the two here) flinging hyperbole on the potential of these playoffs, the stars seemed to be aligning for yet another monumental let down. But if the first set of games was any indication, these playoffs may not disappoint.

Let’s recap the interesting games…

Suns vs. Spurs: Steve Nash didn’t come away with a bloody nose this time around, but the Suns certainly took their fair share of body shots. With the Spurs seemingly on the ropes all day, the Suns failed to deliver the proverbial knockout punch. And like good teams always do, the Spurs just kept scratching and clawing.

This game was the poster child for impossibly high expectations, yet it somehow surpassed even those lofty expectations. The image of Tim Duncan draining his first three of the season to send the game into double OT will be seared in the memory of every Suns fan if they do not find a way to pull this series out and will only add to the growing legacy of Tim Duncan.

Sixers vs. Pistons: Both my brother and I picked the Pistons to beat our Sixers in five, but I don’t think either one of us thought the boys from Philly would march into Motown and steal Game one. Mo Cheeks has the Sixers playing as hard as any team in the league–giving them a chance to win every time they step on the court. Eventually, their inexperience will catch up with them, but mark my words, three years from now when the Sixers are making a run at a title, they will be talking about how THIS series showed them what it means to play at a championship level.

Mavs vs. Hornets: If is even possible, I think we all underestimated how good Chris Paul really is. I was among the many people that felt that Hornets lack of experience would burn them against the battle-tested Mavs. But Chris Paul had other plans. He single-handedly turned that game around and dispelled any ideas that he could not handle playoff-intensity basketball.

Cleveland vs. Washington: With all of the trash talking leading up to the game, you almost knew there would be some sort of altercation, and the Cavs and Wizards did not let us down. Just before halftime, Lebron and Haywood kicked up a bit of skirmish at halftime. Much like a manager getting purposely kicked out in baseball, Lebron gave his team a much needed spark by refusing to be pushed around. The intensity in this series should be fun to watch.

Too often in sports, we manufacture intensity and drama, ultimately cheapening the games themselves. But this time around, the hype seemed to have matched the outcome in the early going. Here’s hoping the rest of the playoffs are as fun as the first set of games.

Playoff Predictions from the Other Brother

Published
by
Chris Iafolla
on April 18, 2008
in NBA
. 1 Comment

So, my brother and I had what we thought would be a brilliant idea–he posts his playoff predictions and then I post mine.  We rarely agree on much, so we figured it would be a good way to document who had the right prediction heading into the playoffs.  But low and behold, after giving Anthony first crack and posting his predictions, it turns out that we think more alike than we knew.  In fact, our picks are so similar that we are forecasting the same Finals series–Suns versus Pistons.  AND….you guessed it, the same winner–the Pistons.

And to echo what Anthony wrote, the current version of the NBA playoffs is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory.  While I hate both teams, how cool is it that the Lakers and Celtics sit atop each of their respective conferences?  For me, it harkens back the glory days of the NBA.  Adding more drama to the mix, the West is a hodge podge of teams with a chance to win.  It is parity at its greatest.  With the exception of the Nuggets, I honestly would not be surprised to see any team come out of the West.

Without further adieu, I will give you my version of Playoff Predictions, which is not much different than my brother’s.

Atlanta vs. Boston: Not much to say here more than was already stated–Celts in a sweep.  Sorry Josh Smith, you will not be “shocking the world.”

Philadelphia vs. Detroit: Again, the key points have been covered.  The Sixers are an up and coming team, but they are a couple of years a way from being able to compete with the Pistons of the world.  Detroit in 5.

Toronto vs. Orlando: I think this series will be a lot closer and more exciting than my brother thinks it will be, but in the end, the Magic win in 7.

Cleveland vs. Washington: Anthony stole a bit of my thunder here, so see below for a full explanation–Cleveland in 6.

Lakers vs. Denver: The Nuggets are a frustrating team.  If they could play an ounce of defense, they have the offensive firepower to beat any team.  Problem is, the rely solely on their offense and have thrown the concept of defense out the window entirely.  I do think the Nuggets will make this interesting, winning 2 games.  Lakers in 6.

Phoenix vs. San Antonio: Like my brother said, it is a shame this series is so early in the playoff.  My hunch?  Whoever wins this series comes out of the West.  This series provides one of the most interesting story lines of the playoffs.  The Suns acquired Shaq for one reason during the season–to match up with Tim Duncan.  To add to the drama, the Spurs bounced the Suns from the playoffs last year in a series that resembled a hockey game more than basketball.  The difference this year is that the Suns will not be pushed around.  With Shaq, they have the physical presence to match up with the Spurs.  Suns in 6.

Dallas vs. New Orleans: Here is where my brother and I part ways.  The Mavs are playing with a purpose and level of effort they have not been able to match all season long.   While the Mavs have been here before, the Hornets have not.  I think over the course of a long playoff-intensity series, Jason Kidd will physically wear down Chris Paul.  Mavs in 6.

Rockets vs. Jazz: The Jazz simply do not get bounced early in the playoffs.  Jazz in 5.

That takes us through the first round, now let’s see if it lives through the hype.

NBA Playoff Predictions

Published
by
Anthony Iafolla
on April 18, 2008
in NBA
. 0 Comments

The NBA Playoffs are here!  This is the most excited I have been about the playoffs in awhile.  I’m always excited, but this year has been a great season for the NBA.  With young players like LeBron, Howard, Paul, and D. Williams carrying the torch, all seems to be going well for the NBA.  With the Lakers and Celtics back at center stage, the storylines are endless.  Will the Shaq trade boost Phoenix to the elusive Championship or will Steve Kerr look like a bonehead.  Will Kobe win without Shaq finally?  Can KG bring a parade to the starving city of Boston (really guys, you’ve had enough between the Pats and Sox, plus BC hockey!!!)?  Are the Spurs finally done?  Can the Hornets, even with their inexperience make some noise?…Ok.. You get the point.  Now I’m just being ridiculous and asking questions to see how many I can write before I get bored.  Not to mention, my Sixers are back in the playoffs and that has me juiced…even if it will not last long.  So, without further ado here are my picks for the 2008 Playoffs.  These are sure to be right, so head to Vegas ASAP. 

EASTERN CONFERENCE Even though everyone likes to dump on the East, there are still some good series that will play out.  Will it go according to form like most people think, or will there be a shocker in the mix?  Will I ever stop asking questions and just get to my picks?  Hmmm… 

Atlanta vs. BostonThis one really couldn’t be easier.  I mean, seriously.  The Hawks may as well start booking their vacations now.  The Celtics have 30 more wins!  30!!!  Garnett may actually eat Marvin Williams.  This is going to be an ugly one. Celtics in 4 

Philly vs. DetroitI would love to go with my boys in this one, but they just are not ready for the big time yet.  I think there will be a few tense moments for Detroit, and when the games are played in Philly, the Sixers speed and athleticism will bother the Pistons a bit, but not enough to steal more than one game. Pistons in 5 

Toronto vs. OrlandoChris Bosh will get his.  Probably 30 + a game, but I do not see the supporting cast of the Raptors being able to score enough to match Orlando’s big 3 of Howard, Lewis, and Hedo.  This could be where Howard has one of those series where he averages an insane 26 and 15…This in my opinion is a boring series.  Nothing too exciting here. Magic in 6 

Washington vs. ClevelandMan I love Charles Barkley!  I also agree with him.  The Cavs have been stuck in neutral for a month and the Wizards have been playing their best basketball of the season, as well as getting healthy.  Leave it to Agent 0…only one less the number of playoff series his teams have won.  Why would you piss off LeBron James?  Didn’t he see that is not a good idea based on games against the Raptors and Knicks this year.  And what the hell is Stevenson opening his mouth for?  Dude, you averaged 11 points a game. Shut up.  I would have picked the Wizards, but now with even just a little bit of help from West, Sczerbiak, Ilgauskas and company LeBron’s anger will carry the Cavs. Cavs in 7 Those are my first round picks. 

I will revisit this after the first round, but just to put it on record I see Boston defeating Cleveland in 6 and Detroit over Orlando in 6 in the second round to set up the matchup everyone has assumed would happen all year.  I will break it down further when it happens, but I have been picking Detroit all year.  Something tells me I am going to regret this, but I say Detroit in 7.  Maybe its just because I cannot stand to see another Beantown celebration. 

WESTERN CONFERENCE I think this time I will just get to the picks.  My question mark key is broken. 

Denver vs. Los AngelesWell I live in LaLa Land, and I have been talking up a Lakers first round demise for months, and then they go and draw Denver.  Damn!  Now I’m screwed.  There is no way the Lakers lose to Denver.  They are so dysfunctional and play a brand of basketball that has zero chance of getting them anywhere in the playoffs.  Probably because George Karl has gone crazy.  Allen Iverson will be fun to watch, Carmelo will be drunk, and J.R. Smith will shoot 17 threes a game.  The Lakers may average 142 point per game.  The Lakers will not lose to the new Portland Trailblazers. Lakers in 5 

Dallas vs. New OrleansThis is a tough one.  The Mavs looked like they were on the brink of missing the playoffs and then we would have had a cage match to the death between Mark Cuban and Avery Johnson (and by the way Avery would have won by making Cuban’s ears explode with his voice).  Then, Dirk cam back from his injury and willed them to the playoffs.  The Mavs can be scary when they are on, but I am not sure they will be.  Yes, these Hornets are young, but they are good.  Chris Paul will run circles around Kidd in this.  The Mavs were better before the trade.   Hornets in 7 

Phoenix vs. San AntonioThis is the best series of the first round and maybe the entire playoffs.  I am pissed this is in the first round.  I wanted to see this later in the playoffs.  Yes, the Spurs are old and banged up.  Shaq’s hip is always a question mark.  I just feel like the Suns are really gelling now.  They beat the Spurs both times since the trade, and actually played tough D in those games.  If this were to go to a 7th game, I do not think the Suns would win, which is why they will steal a game in San Antonio.  Probably game one.  I think Shaq and Stoudemire will be too much for the Spurs frontcourt to handle throughout the series. Suns in 6 

Utah vs. HoustonHouston had a nice run, but in the playoffs they will miss Yao Ming.  Houston can defend, but they will not be able to defend Deron Williams and the well oiled Jazz offense.  Another early exit for poor Tracy McGrady. Jazz in 6 This sets up my chance for an upset.  The Jazz take down the Lakers in 7 in the semis and Phoenix wins in 6 against New Orleans.  Setting up a Suns, Jazz final.  I see the Suns winning this one in 7. 

NBA FINALS Pistons in 7 Again I will be writing more as the Playoffs shake out.  I am sure that I will have a lot of words to eat, but either way, this should be an exciting couple months of games, and I am going to sit back and enjoy watching.

Too Much Sportmanship?

Published
by
Anthony Iafolla
on April 15, 2008
in Other
. 2 Comments

 

As the NHL Playoffs have gotten underway, it had me thinking of a tradition in hockey that I love.  A tradition that is not seen in other sports, and I truly wish there was more of.  I am speaking of when, after beating the snot out of each other for four to seven games, all 25 men line up on the ice and shake hands and exchange a few words of respect.  I love that!  That is the true meaning of sportsmanship in my opinion. 

 When we were all young and playing in our community leagues, this is what we were taught.  The reason I bring this up, is that many times in professional sports today, there seems to be a little too much sportsmanship.  What I mean is I cannot stand seeing NBA players walk out onto the court before a game and every single player freakin’ HUGS his opponent!  Save it for after you have played 48 minutes.  This will happen before every NBA playoff game in the upcoming weeks and months.  I do not want to see Dwight Howard smack LeBron James to the hardwood to prevent a poster dunk, and then help him up as if he was sorry he did it. 

I see this type of thing every time I turn on the TV to watch a game.  I see linebackers crunching a running back to the ground and then offering a helping hand up.  NO!  He is the opposition.  He is the enemy for 60 minutes.   Treat him as such!  I have no proof, but I doubt that Bill Russell hugged Wilt Chamberlain before each game.  I know, I know, Isaiah and Magic practically made out on the court, but I would never question their desire to win.  I guess in the end that is what I am getting at.  As a fan, I do not want my heroes to like the guys on the other team.  I do not want to see them exchange dinner plans before they hit the field or court.  I want to know that they share the same passionate dislike for them as I do. 

Maybe they don’t. There are reasons for this of course: Free agency, the fact that they are paid so much, share the same agents, and hang out at the same resorts in the off-season. I am not saying that today’s athletes are not driven to win, merely that I would like them to show a little less love to their opponents before a game or series.  Be friends later.  I can remember playing ball with buddies of mine and we would trade elbows for an hour, and curse and glare at each other.  Then bump fists and have a beer.  That’s how it should be. 

Recently, after being traded to Phoenix, Shaq was leveled to the floor during a game.  I believe it was Tim Duncan, but don’t quote me, tried to help him up.  Shaq refused.  Message sent. You are not my friend.  Big shocker: Shaq has 4 rings.  Give me more of that type.  In hockey, they get paid well, but they also still seem to be some of the most down to earth guys in sports (Even if no one knows it).  They are a “man’s man”.  Do battle.  Pour your heart out on the floor, field, or ice.  May the best man/men win.  To clarify, I am all for respect and sportsmanship, just save it until after you have done what you came there to do:  Which at the professional level, should be to win.  Now line up and shake hands fellas!