NBA Playoffs 2006

[41ravens]

are coming up. this is for those of us that still pay attention. i'm a little worried about my suns. they've been struggling lately. but i'm thinking dallas and san antonio will beat each other up too bad in the second round and give the suns an advantage, especially if dallas wins. i don't think we could beat san antonio, but we could definitely take dallas in 7. as for the east, who gives a shit? ;)

[justinandimcool]

The Suns are a gimme for the Western Conference finals, where they will matchup with SA/Dal in a great series. I'm excited.

But I'm telling you, watch them Clippers. They can match up with pretty much any team.

And I'm really hoping for the Lakers to finally explode- we've been playing surprisingly well the past few weeks....but we all know it's not gonna happen against Phoenix (but who knows).

And for the east...who cares...it's gonna be Detroit.

[explode41]

dallas will win the entire thing.. that i know im physic

[neumdogg]

dallas will win the entire thing.. that i know im physic
Spurs will win again

[explode41]

Spurs will win again

haha that's what you think hahahahaha

[MacGuyver]

I'm taking NJ. they seem unbeatable lately.

[Fishbulb290]

Suns vs. Nets.

That's my prediction. I'm thinking the Clippers will take out Dallas.

I want it to be my Nuggets but I doubt it. If the Nuggets play like they can they could make it far unfortuneatly it's not going to happen.

[explode41]

like I said earlier the Mavs will win, as well as performing a sweep through the entire playoffs without losing a game -- just like Kentucky did as they won the NCAA Tournament this year.

That's my reality and I'm sticking with it.

[SteelerMan]

I have a feeling my Sixers won't even make it. I compared their remaining schedule to that of the Bulls, and the Bulls have it much, much easier. We still have two games against the Nets and one against the Heat. Even if the Sixers do make it, they'll get stomped by Detroit (or possibly Miami if Indiana or Milwaukee slip up) in the first round anyway. I'd just like to see them make it.

I think it's going to be Detroit vs. San Antonio in the Finals again this year, only this time with Detroit winning it 4-1. I would pick the Spurs, but I think Duncan is hurting more than we think.

[41ravens]

Suns vs. Nets.

That's my prediction. I'm thinking the Clippers will take out Dallas.

I want it to be my Nuggets but I doubt it. If the Nuggets play like they can they could make it far unfortuneatly it's not going to happen.

i can live with that.

[neumdogg]

haha that's what you think hahahahaha
You're right. Thats what I think. Thats why I posted it.

[Footestompgp1]

detroit vs san antonio/dallas

i don't think that there is any team in the east that can compete with detroit for seven games. possiblly miami could take it to seven but they couldn't beat detroit with a superior team last year.

i think dallas and san antonio are superior teams to the suns. as longs as they stay healthy, i believe the winner of that series will go to the finals.

[justinandimcool]

Who gets the MVP? This year. I say Lebron. Getting your team to the 4th spot by yourself is impressive. Dirk also has the same case, so he's Lebron's top competition. Nash maybe...but near .500 after the all star break doesnt cut it. Chauncey is on a team literally full of all stars, as well as Duncan who hasn't had his most impressive year.

[Dancing Ants]

i'm pulling for my boys in Dallas. Hopefully, we'll get to take on Memphis if/when we get the 4 seed. I really don't think the Suns can go 7 games against Dallas if that's who it ends up being (as opposed to SA...who it'll probably be).

[Dancing Ants]

Who gets the MVP? This year. I say Lebron. Getting your team to the 4th spot by yourself is impressive. Dirk also has the same case, so he's Lebron's top competition. Nash maybe...but near .500 after the all star break doesnt cut it. Chauncey is on a team literally full of all stars, as well as Duncan who hasn't had his most impressive year.

DIRK. look at the mavs minus dirk. they're a .500 team. With Dirk, they're going to win at least 59 games. Now, Nash is great and all, but he's got Marion there to help him fuel the team. Kobe doesn't get it because, even with Kobe, the Lakers still suck. Chauncey is, like you said, on a team full of great all star players. Duncan the same...and he hasn't had the best year.

Dirk all the way. No one else is even close. Lebron is second, but Lebron's team isn't the second/third best team in the league with Lebron, where as the Mavs are.

i'm biased though...and i hate it that dirk doesn't get what he deserves.

[justinandimcool]

DIRK. look at the mavs minus dirk. they're a .500 team. With Dirk, they're going to win at least 59 games. Now, Nash is great and all, but he's got Marion there to help him fuel the team. Kobe doesn't get it because, even with Kobe, the Lakers still suck. Chauncey is, like you said, on a team full of great all star players. Duncan the same...and he hasn't had the best year.

Dirk all the way. No one else is even close. Lebron is second, but Lebron's team isn't the second/third best team in the league with Lebron, where as the Mavs are.

i'm biased though...and i hate it that dirk doesn't get what he deserves.

let's start off with this: the Lakers don't suck anymore as in the past month. the reason why I wouldn't give it to Kobe is that the Lakers are playing their ABSOLUTE BEST when Lamar and Kwame are stepping it up and winning the games, not Kobe.

And the Cavs and Mavs are both having their best years EVER, both teams reaching max potential. Dirk and Lebron both being the sole reasons. If you take both out like you said, they're both sub .500 teams. Now that we've reached a neutrality...it's NUMBERS time.

http://www.nba.com/playerfile/lebron_james/index.html?nav=page

http://www.nba.com/playerfile/dirk_nowitzki/index.html?nav=page


Lebron clearly wins the individual standpoint, but Dirk has a better team than Lebron, so Dirk's numbers naturally go down a tiny bit more, as he is a score first kinda guy. We take into account that Dirk is in the West, and fighting for the #1 seed...as opposed to Lebron carrying the Cavs to homecourt advantage for the first time in a LONG time. It's tough. I wouldn't wanna be in the voting committee.

Only because the Mavs are suddenly arguably "the best team" in the league, I change my vote to Dirk.

[justinandimcool]

i'm pulling for my boys in Dallas. Hopefully, we'll get to take on Memphis if/when we get the 4 seed. I really don't think the Suns can go 7 games against Dallas if that's who it ends up being (as opposed to SA...who it'll probably be).

Dallas vs San Antonio would be delicious. But oh my goodness watch those Sacramento Kings. They'll give the Spurs a run for it.

I've yet to see Kobe go off in the playoffs alone, so who knows how well he'll tear it up, or how well the team steps it up. The Lakers are playing their best basketball of the year now that Luke, Lamar, and Kwame have found efficient roles. Sad thing is that 90% likely it won't be enough against Phoenix (who are arguably playing their worst ball of the year, which isn't saying much).

The Clippers/Denver matchup will be interesting. Both teams have enough firepower to BEAT the Suns in a 7 game series. The Clippers also have enough (though not too likely) of a chance of beating Dallas and San Antonio.

Like march madness, this field will be very wide open, at least in the West. Especially with Duncan not doing what he's supposed to this time of year (at least last time i checked).

Either way...most likely it will be San Antonio vs Phoenix in the West finals, and San Antonio vs Detroit in the finals, with Detroit reclaiming its throne (did i mention there's no need for extended commentary in the east).

However, a Dallas vs Detroit matchup also has a good chance, and is very yummy.

[justinandimcool]

Because I'm bored:

San Antonio vs Sacramento

Sacramento will put up a fight. But if Ron Artest and Mike Bibby are you best scorers on a team, you won't beat Duncan and Parker and Ginobili and Co. But you will push them to a lot of close games, which San Antonio has the advantage (experience, clutchness).

Spurs in 6.

Dallas vs Memphis

Memphis is okay, but does not stand out as a defensive team, which you need against Dirk and Terry. No chance. The Grizzlies will win a game because they'll have one good shooting night while the Mavs have a bad one. It always works out that way.

Mavs in 5

Denver vs Clippers

Looks like the Clippers have home-court advantage, but it doesn't matter. This will be the best opening round series. I'm not confident at all in my pick, because there will be alot of close games, but the edge goes to the team with the best clutch player in the league ;)

Denver in 7

Phoenix vs Lakers

Kobe Bryant WILL break scoring records in this series. For the rest of the games, Lamar Odom and Luke Walton will step it up and win games. Kwame Brown will not, which will kill the Lakers, who already do not have defensive fire-power. Kobe scoring 51 and the Suns still winning by 9 earlier in the season is not a good sign. Phoenix is too good. Kobe is also just too good to go down without a fight, but as we all know...and as I know more than anyone....:lorraine.

Suns in 6

I'll stop here. If the seedings change after tonight, I will be very angry and will ask for these 10 minutes back.

[SteelerMan]

DIRK. look at the mavs minus dirk. they're a .500 team. With Dirk, they're going to win at least 59 games. Now, Nash is great and all, but he's got Marion there to help him fuel the team. Kobe doesn't get it because, even with Kobe, the Lakers still suck. Chauncey is, like you said, on a team full of great all star players. Duncan the same...and he hasn't had the best year.

Dirk all the way. No one else is even close. Lebron is second, but Lebron's team isn't the second/third best team in the league with Lebron, where as the Mavs are.

i'm biased though...and i hate it that dirk doesn't get what he deserves.

I was about to call you a homer, but then you admitted you were biased. Dirk definitely deserves consideration, but I really don't think he's the MVP. Take Dirk away from the Mavs, and I still think they're a playoff team. Take Kobe or Lebron away from their respective teams and they're among the worst in the league. There have been a lot of articles about how to choose the MVP on ESPN.com, and it really does all depend on how you define "MVP".

[SteelerMan]

In case you're wondering, here's how I'd rank the MVP candidates:

1. Kobe Bryant
2. Lebron James
3. Dirk Nowitzki
4. Steve Nash
5. Chauncey Billups
6. Dwyane Wade
7. Chris Paul

I don't like Kobe, but I've got to give it to him. I know Lebron's team has been more successful, but Kobe has singlehandedly carried his team more than anyone since Allen Iverson took the Sixers to the Finals in 2001 (and AI did win the award that year). Still, I would rather see Lebron win it. And I think Chris Paul does deserve to be mentioned. The Hornets were supposed to be competing for the first pick next season (especially being in the West, which I still think is the far superior conference), but instead they're still competing for a playoff spot, and it's all because of Chris Paul.

I would also like to point out that Raymond Felton at least deserves to be mentioned in the Rookie of the Year race. Of course it's Chris Paul, but I think Felton is a solid second. If you get bored, compare Felton's stats to Paul's for the second half of the season... I did it a few weeks ago, and it was remarkably close. Felton was actually better in a couple key categories.

[DMBfan41]

i'm going with the nets, but they haven't been playing great lately

[Tiduwho]

Ben Gordon = Mr. 4th Quarter. I mean, it really is ridiculous how he doesn't do much in the 1st half, but once the 4th quarter rolls around he just completely takes over and just drains everything. I don't know how he just turns it on out of nowhere, it's quite amazing. 9 for 9 from 3 pt range last night including the game winner.

The Bulls are only a game out of 5th place, and pretty much have 8th locked up. The Eastern Conference is one big jumblefuck. The 5th-8th teams have just about zero chance, it's pretty sad.

Let's go Bulls though. I'd like to play the Cavs, or the Heat (who they play on Sunday). They'll get swept if it's the Pistons or Nets. I'm so sick of the Nets STILL, I know it's been a few seasons, but they were just so blah being the only team in the East.

[skatcat]

Go Suns!

[|UAY| |)(V)|3]

LET'S GO GOLDEN STATE!!!










pwnd...

[41ravens]

Go Suns!

hells yeah. nice to see a fellow phoenix fan round these parts.

[Sutmaster6]

I'm feeling pretty good about my Pistons.

[|UAY| |)(V)|3]

hells yeah. nice to see a fellow phoenix fan round these parts.
Phoenix....who golden state PWND last night!

[SteelerMan]

Looks like my Sixers are pretty much out of it. Seriously... with that much talent, there's no reason they shouldn't have made the playoffs. You've got Iverson the scorer, Webber the rebounder/inside scorer, Korver the three point specialist, and Iguodola. I know they're not a deep team, but that's just too much talent to not make the playoffs in the weak Eastern Conference. I have a feeling they'll trade Iverson this offseason. Hopefully they can still get something decent for him. Hopefully Iggy will break out after Iverson leaves. I'd hate to see Iverson leave, but I hate losing even more.

[The ConMan 3000]

Ben Gordon was amazing last night

[SteelerMan]

Ben Gordon was amazing last night

How much did he charge you?

[The ConMan 3000]

50 cents a minute.. not too bad..

ended up being like 2 bucks

[SteelerMan]

50 cents a minute.. not too bad..

ended up being like 2 bucks

:lol

[rdawg13]

Watch out for the 8th seed in the west... it just might be my Jazz. We're on a 5 game win streak and might just win out if the Mavs and Spurs seeds are locked. SO if Sacramento chokes at all, We're in! (but I'm not holding my breath)

I have to say that I doubt the Suns will get past the second round, they're weakening instead of tuning up. If they were playing like they were 2 or 3 months ago, they'd be in the conference finals, but not this way... sorry :shrug

[Fishbulb290]

Phoenix....who golden state PWND last night!

They had Skita playing when they were down by 3 in the 3rd quarter. I'm suprised Nash even dressed out.

[chiznaz]

I think the Spurs will reach the finals again. They haven't been healthy all year, and it's only going to get worse (there health) in the playoffs. Unless Tony Parker steps up even more, this team won't beat the Pistons. Duncan hasn't been 100% the whole season, and Detroit has the best defenders to go against him. It will take the best showing from Ginobli and Parker along with continuous solid play from Rasho and N. Mohammed to beat the Pistons.

[nickcua]

Go Spurs!

I hope we face LAL in the first round! They are bitches!

[justinandimcool]

Go Spurs!

I hope we face LAL in the first round! They are bitches!

Dream on. See you in the Western Conference Finals, suckas.






















:shrug :lorraine

[nickcua]

Dream on. See you in the Western Conference Finals, suckas.





:shrug :lorraine:) :lol Los Angeles Kobes are going to get a beatdown.

[justinandimcool]

:) :lol Los Angeles Kobes are going to get a beatdown.

Bitch that's my name for them.

[justinandimcool]

I think the Lakers have a legit shot. The last two times they played Phoenix were a second of the back to back, with the first game being an overtime game. We were tired, and couldn't keep up.






Yes, that's my excuse.

[Dancing Ants]

let's start off with this: the Lakers don't suck anymore as in the past month. the reason why I wouldn't give it to Kobe is that the Lakers are playing their ABSOLUTE BEST when Lamar and Kwame are stepping it up and winning the games, not Kobe.

And the Cavs and Mavs are both having their best years EVER, both teams reaching max potential. Dirk and Lebron both being the sole reasons. If you take both out like you said, they're both sub .500 teams. Now that we've reached a neutrality...it's NUMBERS time.

http://www.nba.com/playerfile/lebron_james/index.html?nav=page

http://www.nba.com/playerfile/dirk_nowitzki/index.html?nav=page


Lebron clearly wins the individual standpoint, but Dirk has a better team than Lebron, so Dirk's numbers naturally go down a tiny bit more, as he is a score first kinda guy. We take into account that Dirk is in the West, and fighting for the #1 seed...as opposed to Lebron carrying the Cavs to homecourt advantage for the first time in a LONG time. It's tough. I wouldn't wanna be in the voting committee.

Only because the Mavs are suddenly arguably "the best team" in the league, I change my vote to Dirk.

well, yes, the lakers are suddenly doing good, but their "best" still isn't good enough even WITH Kobe.

Dirk is naturally the winner between the two, imo. The west is MUCH tougher than the east, and Dirk has pretty much carried the team all through march when Harris, Howard, and Griffin were out. I just see no one that is doing what he does as well as he does.

[Dancing Ants]

I was about to call you a homer, but then you admitted you were biased. Dirk definitely deserves consideration, but I really don't think he's the MVP. Take Dirk away from the Mavs, and I still think they're a playoff team. Take Kobe or Lebron away from their respective teams and they're among the worst in the league. There have been a lot of articles about how to choose the MVP on ESPN.com, and it really does all depend on how you define "MVP".

Kobe still doesn't have a good team. DIRK took this team to 2nd best team in the league. Pretty much BY HIMSELF. 60 (at least) wins!

Cleveland MIGHT win 51 games. I don't see how anyone else can even be considered, honestly. 60ish games in the hands of one man is hard to beat, imo.

edit: and i still think Dirk could play better...

[justinandimcool]

I'm pumped

[justinandimcool]

Go Lakers!

[robbins876]

The Suns are a gimme for the Western Conference finals, where they will matchup with SA/Dal in a great series. I'm excited.

But I'm telling you, watch them Clippers. They can match up with pretty much any team.

And I'm really hoping for the Lakers to finally explode- we've been playing surprisingly well the past few weeks....but we all know it's not gonna happen against Phoenix (but who knows).

And for the east...who cares...it's gonna be Detroit.

Right... The Suns will be lucky to get past the Lakers. Look for this to be the upset this year. I said it! LA over Phoenix in 6!

[Fishbulb290]

Lucky to get past the Lakers. Ya ok...

Unless Kobe 80's it every night I think they are boned.

Suns in 4 MAYBE 5

[Tiduwho]

Well, here we are another year of NBA playoffs and no doubt the Bulls will sweep the first few rounds, pound the Pistons, and take out the Spurs in the finals.







Sorry, I miss the 90s.

[Dancing Ants]

i think the Lakers will be a spoiler...i don't know why, but i just have a feeling.

ps- sacremento = owned. i didn't expect it to be THAT bad.

[burkett375]

De-troit!!!! Basket-ball!!!!

all the way this year...home court throughout. the only reason they didn't win it last year was cause they were on the road for the champ. series. flip's let em do their thing for offense this year instead of larry's conservative offense. seems to have worked. we might have 2 champions in detroit in the next couple months...

[devilandthelord]

Holy Shit! Lebron and the Cavs were off the heezay today! :multi

[justinandimcool]

i think the Lakers will be a spoiler...i don't know why, but i just have a feeling.

ps- sacremento = owned. i didn't expect it to be THAT bad.

i doubted the Lakers, my own team when i made predictions in this thread, but i can't help but get "that feeling". i totally see them in the western conference finals, it's like they're playing too well to not at least get that far.

[dmblynny]

Is it football season yet?:violent

[justinandimcool]

how respectful.

[kderr88]

dallas will win the entire thing.. that i know im physic

Only three teams have a shot, San Antonio, Detroit and Dallas. I sure hope its the Mavs in the end.

SA sent a message today.

[Tiduwho]

Bulls showed the Heat it's not going to be a walk in the park. Noc, you're the man, but wtf were you thinking? Throwing up a 3 off the inbounds with 18 seconds still left?

Luol Deng disappeared. I don't know why they just didn't stick with the Gordon plan. Just give him the ball, who cares. Don't shoot the ball Hinrich, just give it to Gordon and he'll win the game for us. They better stick with it next game.

[aeroshady]

Go NETS!!

[Dancing Ants]

i doubted the Lakers, my own team when i made predictions in this thread, but i can't help but get "that feeling". i totally see them in the western conference finals, it's like they're playing too well to not at least get that far.

no they won't make it to the western finals, but i think they have a solid chance of beating Phoenix. then again, i thought maybe Sac might upset SA tonight....haha.

[justinandimcool]

no they won't make it to the western finals, but i think they have a solid chance of beating Phoenix. then again, i thought maybe Sac might upset SA tonight....haha.

I don't understand how you can say they beat Phoenix yet rule them out of beating the Clippers/Nuggets. I think they have a better chance at beating one of the two than beating the Suns at all.

[Fishbulb290]

I don't understand how you can say they beat Phoenix yet rule them out of beating the Clippers/Nuggets. I think they have a better chance at beating one of the two than beating the Suns at all.

They have a much better chance with Den/Lac than the Suns. Unless they get really tired in a 7 game series which could also happen to Den/Lac but I think it would be a good match up.

[Dancing Ants]

I don't understand how you can say they beat Phoenix yet rule them out of beating the Clippers/Nuggets. I think they have a better chance at beating one of the two than beating the Suns at all.

sorry, i misread/printed. i thought you were saying nba finals. yeah i think if they could get past the suns they could prolly get past the Clips.

[jmudmbphan]

kobe's a bitch ass mofo

[DMBfan41]

come on! you can not make that call with 0.9 seconds to go

[SmoothD41]

go pacers

Vince Carter's the most arrogant piece of shit in the league.

[Fishbulb290]

Nice shot vujacic. Too bad it's not going to count...

[reds24]

Here's a pic from the Cavs game yesterday. I'm on the far left.

http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/1469/dcp22562jc.jpg

[Fishbulb290]

Is that Usher?

[big blue wave]

go pacers

Vince Carter's the most arrogant piece of shit in the league.

vince carter arrogant? you have got to be kidding me! that's funny. trust me he's not.

[justinandimcool]

Terrible game by the Lakers down the stretch. I cannot believe that a professional team and a professional player with the caliber of Kobe can miss that many shots and allow that many baskets in the 4th quarter. Doesn't make sense to me.

[SmoothD41]

vince carter arrogant? you have got to be kidding me! that's funny. trust me he's not.

oh really? Trust me, he admitted to dogging it in Toronto because he felt he was too good to be playing for such a bad team. That's the most disgraceful thing that a PROFESSIONAL athlete can do. Also, he's one of the most overrated players in the league. Nice 30 percent shooting today, along with three airballs, Wince.

[justinandimcool]

oh really? Trust me, he admitted to dogging it in Toronto because he felt he was too good to be playing for such a bad team. That's the most disgraceful thing that a PROFESSIONAL athlete can do. Also, he's one of the most overrated players in the league. Nice 30 percent shooting today, along with three airballs, Wince.

He's anything but overrated, but him admitting to "not trying" when playing in Toronto made me hate him forever. Ridiculous.

[SmoothD41]

He's anything but overrated, but him admitting to "not trying" when playing in Toronto made me hate him forever. Ridiculous.

I think he's incredibly overrated, always have. Even at UNC (i was a HUGE UNC fan at that time also). To each his own.

[justinandimcool]

I think he's incredibly overrated, always have. Even at UNC. To each his own.

I guess so, to be honest I could care less about him.

On another note I'm still not over the Lakers today. Kwame Brown played dismal. Kobe Bryant played conservative. Lamar Odom was garbage. Smush Parker was garbage. The only reason it was close was because the Suns went on long cold streaks. The Lakers don't step it up, they get swept. I guess everyone was right. Ridiculous basketball by LA.

[Fishbulb290]

I found it funny Kobe tried to play more like an actual team and they kept it close. Where as if he played like Kobe (if he wasn't shooting like crap) they definitely could have taken advantage of the Sun's cold streaks.

[justinandimcool]

I found it funny Kobe tried to play more like an actual team and they kept it close. Where as if he played like Kobe (if he wasn't shooting like crap) they definitely could have taken advantage of the Sun's cold streaks.

It's crap games like these that make me doubt Kobe's ability. Nowhere near the player I thought he was. He's supposed to show up at these games, not go 6-22 or whatever it was he shot. You just don't do that in the playoffs. It kills me to see players like Lebron show up and just dominate, while Kobe can't. Pathetic.

[Fishbulb290]

We will see how he does in the remaining games. I really thought they had no chance if Kobe was cold and they did keep it close...

[justinandimcool]

We will see how he does in the remaining games. I really thought they had no chance if Kobe was cold and they did keep it close...

Yeah, well it's hard to suck up when he's the one that lets the team down (Smush and Kwame helped a little). You just can't go 3-11 in the 4th when you're Kobe Bryant. He did, and I keep losing respect and faith in him everytime. He's got a lot of redeeming to do this series.

[big blue wave]

oh really? Trust me, he admitted to dogging it in Toronto because he felt he was too good to be playing for such a bad team. That's the most disgraceful thing that a PROFESSIONAL athlete can do. Also, he's one of the most overrated players in the league. Nice 30 percent shooting today, along with three airballs, Wince.

is that how you feel or did you get that from bill simmons? hey i'm not denying he dogged it in toronto but he wasn't happy and it brought him down. put anyone in a bad situation and they probably will find it tough to put their heart into what they are doing. i'm not really making an excuse for him bc he probably should have been more professional about it. sometimes though people make it sound like he's the only professional athlete who has ever acted that way before.

anyway that certainly doesn't make him arrogant. he's been a huge part of this nets team and their turnaround both last year and this year. believe me i've followed the team very very closely and always have. on the other hand, yes he did have a lousy game today but let's not forget he still had 31 pts and 13 boards, not to mention his normal array of assists. that being said he still has to prove himself in the playoffs. there's something about him that's missing and keeping him from getting to that next really elite level. he's very close but he hasn't quite gotten there yet i'll admit that. trust me VC is a good guy though. this nets team is built around a bunch of character guys from the top down.

[SteelerMan]

I thought this was interesting... I just found a file on my computer with my NBA Predictions from the preseason. In the East, I predicted 7 of the 8 playoff teams (I had the Sixers in there instead of the Bucks). In the West, I only got 5 of the 8 (had the Sonics, Rockets, and T-Wolves in for the Lakers, Clippers, and Grizzlies). I also picked 5 of the 6 division winners (had the Pacers over the Pistons... I thought Artest would behave). In the finals, I had the Spurs over the Pacers (again, I thought Artest would behave).

[big blue wave]

Now that's the Vince Carter that I know. And those are the Nets that I know.

[SmoothD41]

Now that's the Vince Carter that I know. And those are the Nets that I know.

yeah that was good ol' fashioned ass whooping. Shouldn't have even been as close as it was

[neumdogg]

Woohoo!

I got my tickets for Friday's and Sunday's Lakers games. I'm a happy man. Now lets hope that Kobe can "bring it" this time!

[justinandimcool]

Woohoo!

I got my tickets for Friday's and Sunday's Lakers games. I'm a happy man. Now lets hope that Kobe can "bring it" this time!

I sure hope so. Looks like we're gonna get him more involved. no 7 for 22 and 3 for 10 in the fourth quarter bullcrap.

[neumdogg]

I sure hope so. Looks like we're gonna get him more involved. no 7 for 22 and 3 for 10 in the fourth quarter bullcrap.
Yea. That bothered me too. But I gotta say. I was real good season players getting a decent game on Sunday. The Lakers have come a long way since the beginning of the season.

[justinandimcool]

Yea. That bothered me too. But I gotta say. I was real good season players getting a decent game on Sunday. The Lakers have come a long way since the beginning of the season.

They have come a long way for sure. It's the worst feeling knowing your STAR player can let you down like that in the playoffs. Three years ago, it's excusable, but now that we're NOT THAT GOOD, Kobe needs to show up every game. They ran the offense "perfectly", and Kobe was the only faulty part. Not the player he's supposed to be.

[neumdogg]

Yea, but I can't be ALL that upset when we lose to the Suns by only 5 pts when our best player had just an average game. If he made those shots in the 4th, we would have won.

[justinandimcool]

Yea, but I can't be ALL that upset when we lose to the Suns by only 5 pts when our best player had just an average game. If he made those shots in the 4th, we would have won.

But he didn't. It's inexcusable. Kobe owes the team alot for that.

[41ravens]

phoenix in 5.


:D

[justinandimcool]

phoenix in 5.


:D

Maybe. If Kobe lets us down again. I won't stop saying it til we win a game. Kobe let us down.

[justinandimcool]

Kobe scores:

80 or more; 1-0
60 or more; 2-0
50 or more; 4-2
40 or more; 18-9
40 or less; 27-28

The reason he scores 40 or less is he MISSES his shots. He's no MVP, he has to show up.

I said it again, for the 1023th time, but I'm still distraught over game 1. :lol

[Dancing Ants]

Maybe. If Kobe lets us down again. I won't stop saying it til we win a game. Kobe let us down.

no he didn't. and that could get annoying until game four if you keep it up. kobe runs the place, and Jackson needed to get that team to actually be a TEAM. they play as a team, or they play as Kobe and 4 other guys. They can not win at the latter. therefore, jackson realized he has to integrate them or lose it all. what kobe did gave them the best chance to win. at that point, there's no "if kobe had shot well..." suppositions. he either shoots like crazy, or they play as a team. there's no middle ground right now, and this isn't the time to start looking for one.

[devilandthelord]

Is that Usher?

Yeah that is Usher. And cool pic btw reds. Usher owns a a very small part of the cavs, and sometimes he comes to games, sits courtside and gets plastered. Seriously. :hug

[justinandimcool]

no he didn't. and that could get annoying until game four if you keep it up. kobe runs the place, and Jackson needed to get that team to actually be a TEAM. they play as a team, or they play as Kobe and 4 other guys. They can not win at the latter. therefore, jackson realized he has to integrate them or lose it all. what kobe did gave them the best chance to win. at that point, there's no "if kobe had shot well..." suppositions. he either shoots like crazy, or they play as a team. there's no middle ground right now, and this isn't the time to start looking for one.

I disagree on one part. I can make a "If Kobe had shot well" supposition. You say Kobe gave them the best chance to win. That is true, which is why he got 11 shots in the 4th. I'm not denying they played well as a team, and Kobe Bryant is part of this "team". I don't care if you're a one man show or part of a team, if you get 11 shots in the 4th quarter and make 3 of them, congrats, you've let the team down.

[justinandimcool]

By the way, tonight is rekindling my tiny hope for Sacramento. I hope they can close this game out. The earlier the Spurs are out, the better. And I hate the Kings. Root for the lesser of two evils, I guess.

[Dancing Ants]

I disagree on one part. I can make a "If Kobe had shot well" supposition. You say Kobe gave them the best chance to win. That is true, which is why he got 11 shots in the 4th. I'm not denying they played well as a team, and Kobe Bryant is part of this "team". I don't care if you're a one man show or part of a team, if you get 11 shots in the 4th quarter and make 3 of them, congrats, you've let the team down.

true. hence why they should have developed the team more.

[justinandimcool]

true. hence why they should have developed the team more.

I don't see how they could have. The team played okay in the fourth, until Kobe got the ball. And I was begging for him to get the ball. Just so frustrating to see him miss shot after shot.






and then seeing Thomas, Nash, and Barbosa MAKING shot after shot. Terrible defense.

[nickcua]

Go Spurs! Bibby has made Manu look like someone who doesn't flop.

[Dancing Ants]

i'm talking developing in pre-season. Kobe's ego is insanely huge.

[justinandimcool]

i'm talking developing in pre-season. Kobe's ego is insanely huge.

Yeah well what can you do now. Too late.

[Dancing Ants]

that's true.

it won't be so bad watching jackson finally get his comeuppance.

[justinandimcool]

Well we just witnessed reason #2928 why the Spurs are the number one seed.

[Dancing Ants]

yeah..this has actually turned into an ok game.

[Bartndrpleez]

Any fellow Heat fans in this thread?

And now, stand up, and make some NOOOOOOIIIISSSSEEE...

for YOUR...MIAMIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAT!!

Been hearing that since I was 5 years old! :bounce:hump

Heat all the way!

[Tiduwho]

Man...both games at least we didn't give up. Stupid D Wade. Nocioni is getting better and better but then he just has brain cramps in the clutch. Just give the ball to Gordon!

Hinrich was awesome the other night as well. Noc is our MVP though.

[Sonix Blastors]

Tired this morning from watching the Spurs-Kings game. But I'm happy with the result.

[41ravens]

i was just about to come top this with this little gem:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2422255

:thumbsup

[neumdogg]

I don't see how they could have. The team played okay in the fourth, until Kobe got the ball. And I was begging for him to get the ball. Just so frustrating to see him miss shot after shot.






and then seeing Thomas, Nash, and Barbosa MAKING shot after shot. Terrible defense.
The negativity has to stop. Its giving me a headache. And you are being the MOST negative and you're a Laker fan!

We witnessed only ONE game out of a seven game series. You cannot judge from that. We played GREAT defense for the majority of the game. Yes, Kobe didn't make the shots we needed to win this game. But thats the beauty of the playoffs....IT'S SEVEN GAMES! We'll see tonight.

[Dancing Ants]

i was just about to come top this with this little gem:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2422255

:thumbsup

i like nash, good for him.

shoulda been dirk though.

[neumdogg]

i was just about to come top this with this little gem:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2422255

:thumbsup
Son of a!

[41ravens]

nash is well-deserving in my opinion. yeah, you can make a case for anyone of the names being thrown around, but nash just makes everyone around him better. players like raja bell and boris diaw had career years and shawn marion had another amazing season. and everyone counted them out when they heard amare was out. hell, i thought they'd be a 4 seed at best. but they cruised as pacific division champs and now have the #2 seed in the west (yes, i'm aware that it should be dallas) and are one of the most feared teams to play in the league. i hope these reports are true and good for nash if they are. there's no one else i would rather have running point for my team.

[justinandimcool]

HOPE =

Steve Nash having an MVP type game
Kobe Bryant not having an MVP type game
And the Lakers winning on the road nonetheless.

[neumdogg]

Ah, i feels VERY nice to take homecourt advantage in this series. Staples Center, here I come! Friday baby!

[41ravens]

good game by the lakers. phoenix played like shit. the only problem i have is everyone making a big deal about kobe's dunk. i usually hate people who bring up stuff like this, but it was clearly a missed call. nash had position outside of the circle, so it should have been a charge. they missed the call, no big deal, that stuff happens, but people are making it seem like that dunk completely changed the game and it's an even bigger deal because it was nash (probable MVP) who got dunked on. granted it was a nice dunk, but don't make nash look like a bitch saying he got "posterized" when he obviously was trying to take the charge (which, if you ask me, he did).

[SteelerMan]

good game by the lakers. phoenix played like shit. the only problem i have is everyone making a big deal about kobe's dunk. i usually hate people who bring up stuff like this, but it was clearly a missed call. nash had position outside of the circle, so it should have been a charge. they missed the call, no big deal, that stuff happens, but people are making it seem like that dunk completely changed the game and it's an even bigger deal because it was nash (probable MVP) who got dunked on. granted it was a nice dunk, but don't make nash look like a bitch saying he got "posterized" when he obviously was trying to take the charge (which, if you ask me, he did).

:thumbsup

I agree with this 100%. Even more ridiculous were the guys on ESPN this morning saying Kobe "basically cleared Nash". It was a nice dunk, but that's a major exaggeration.

[neumdogg]

good game by the lakers. phoenix played like shit. the only problem i have is everyone making a big deal about kobe's dunk. i usually hate people who bring up stuff like this, but it was clearly a missed call. nash had position outside of the circle, so it should have been a charge. they missed the call, no big deal, that stuff happens, but people are making it seem like that dunk completely changed the game and it's an even bigger deal because it was nash (probable MVP) who got dunked on. granted it was a nice dunk, but don't make nash look like a bitch saying he got "posterized" when he obviously was trying to take the charge (which, if you ask me, he did).
Fine, however, the refs HATED LA last night. We got the WORST calls all night.

And I wont make a big deal about the Kobe/Nash MVP thing unless the Lakers take the series.

[SteelerMan]

Fine, however, the refs HATED LA last night. We got the WORST calls all night.

And I wont make a big deal about the Kobe/Nash MVP thing unless the Lakers take the series.

:lol

Ahh, how the tables have turned.

[neumdogg]

:lol

Ahh, how the tables have turned.
No comprendo...

[SteelerMan]

No comprendo...

In the Shaq/Kobe days, the Lakers got all the calls.

[robbins876]

The magic is that the Lakers will take the series away from the Suns, and it's going to be awesome. We have yet to see Kobe catch fire. It has been the entire Lakers team that has been so on these last two games. I don't think Phoenix was ready for such a tough Lakers team, or ready for such a tough Lamar Odom. GO LAKERS!

[neumdogg]

The magic is that the Lakers will take the series away from the Suns, and it's going to be awesome. We have yet to see Kobe catch fire. It has been the entire Lakers team that has been so on these last two games. I don't think Phoenix was ready for such a tough Lakers team, or ready for such a tough Lamar Odom. GO LAKERS!
Wow. Im literally shocked. I didnt think the Lakers had any support on these boards except for me. GO LAKERS!

[41ravens]

Wow. Im literally shocked. I didnt think the Lakers had any support on these boards except for me. GO LAKERS!

justin's probably going to yell at you.

you guys think you got it bad? jen is the only other suns fan besides myself that i know of around here.

[neumdogg]

justin's probably going to yell at you.

you guys think you got it bad? jen is the only other suns fan besides myself that i know of around here.
Justin has been more negative than people who hate the Lakers!

[justinandimcool]

No I have not been negative!

[justinandimcool]

And I was just saying to my friends about the Kobe dunk: It's one of the worst calls I've ever seen, but I'll GLADLY take it.

[neumdogg]

And I was just saying to my friends about the Kobe dunk: It's one of the worst calls I've ever seen, but I'll GLADLY take it.
Ive seen worse (kobe getting a foul in last minute of game 1 and not getting the call).

[justinandimcool]

Ive seen worse (kobe getting a foul in last minute of game 1 and not getting the call).

And yes, that call was indeed 50x worse.

[neumdogg]

And yes, that call was indeed 50x worse.
That game was SOOO much fun to watch. I'm quite excited about tomorrow!

[justinandimcool]

Game 1 gave me too many heart attacks.

Game 3 the Lakers better dominate WITHOUT letting them back in it. Let Odom overpower Marion alllll day.

[neumdogg]

Game 1 gave me too many heart attacks.

Game 3 the Lakers better dominate WITHOUT letting them back in it. Let Odom overpower Marion alllll day.
It's Lakers in 6 baby!

[justinandimcool]

Where'd you get 6 from?

5 baby.

Honestly, it'll be interesting to see what the Suns do next. All that was missing last night for them was good shooting. We REALLY need to step it up on defense...Raja Bell and Diaw got way too many open shots.

[baloneybandit21]

goddamnit miami lets pull it together here, GET THE SWEEP!

[SmoothD41]

pacers/nets is gonna go 7

[Tiduwho]

Bulls win the next one too.

[41ravens]

phoenix is disappointing me. they've looked sloppy in both games so far. they better get their shit together, quick.

[neumdogg]

phoenix is disappointing me. they've looked sloppy in both games so far. they better get their shit together, quick.
They better not. In fact, I will be at the game tonight so the better win!

[Fishbulb290]

They are letting the Lakers get this momentum. It shouldn't even be close in either of the games.

[Fishbulb290]

Arenas should know he isn't going to get another shot like that to win a game. WIDE OPEN. And how many steps are they going to give Lebron. He took 6 before he made the go-ahead basket.

[|UAY| |)(V)|3]

Let's go Sac-Town!

[1eyed_jack]

yeah lebron could have walked the length of the court and not gotten called for traveling. they need to start calling traveling again, it's getting bad. and lebron is the worst too, he always has extra steps it seems like

[Fishbulb290]

Ya I think they either need to enforce it or change the rule.

Seems like 5 steps is the new travelling.

[DaveismyWeapon]

This Lakers-Suns game is the most intense I've seen in 10 years.

[bense27]

how are the knicks doing?

[|UAY| |)(V)|3]

how are the knicks doing?
They've already advanced to the second round.

[DaveismyWeapon]

The Knicks just drafted Mario Williams

[Fishbulb290]

Jamal Crawford for Kenyon Martin?

Sounds good to me.

[41ravens]

Fine, however, the refs HATED LA last night. We got the WORST calls all night.

And I wont make a big deal about the Kobe/Nash MVP thing unless the Lakers take the series.

looks like you got your redemption. there have been some god-awful calls against phoenix tonight. i'm not using that as an excuse, hell the game isn't even over yet. but there have been some shitty calls.

[baloneybandit21]

wow, cant believe la is gonna pull off another vs phoenix, i still think suns should win, just need to get back to the fast break

[Fishbulb290]

What a finish in Sacramento...

Anyway I hope the Nba does the right thing and suspends possibly Kwame/Smush/Bell/Diaw. They all deserved it this game.

[justinandimcool]

Anyway I hope the Nba does the right thing and suspends possibly Kwame/Smush/Bell/Diaw. They all deserved it this game.

No Bell and Diaw huh. No Kwame and Smush to give the ball too. That has Kobe getting a 60 point game all over it.

[baloneybandit21]

kwame more than anybody, his elbow or push or whatever was completely uncalled for and unnecessary and then he stood over him staring at him, MOST def a no-no in the NBA

[Fishbulb290]

No Bell and Diaw huh. No Kwame and Smush to give the ball too. That has Kobe getting a 60 point game all over it.

Does that mean the Lakers will win?

:lol

(I just find it funny he can score that much and they can still easily lose)

[baloneybandit21]

if kobe is "forced" to play like he did throughout the season they will lose, cuz it means its prolly high scoring which will allow the suns to run and play their game

[Fishbulb290]

kwame more than anybody, his elbow or push or whatever was completely uncalled for and unnecessary and then he stood over him staring at him, MOST def a no-no in the NBA

His should be automatic. I was just thinking the other three because Artest was suspended for much less.

[baloneybandit21]

posey will proly be suspended too for his check in the miami chicago game from the other night, really physical postseason so far

[Tiduwho]

Yes, Posey was suspended for Sunday's game.

[Bartndrpleez]

As a Heat fan, it saddens me to see the level of competition out west. Games are sooooo much more exciting. IF the Heat can somehow miraculously make it to the NBA Finals this season, they're in for a different world against one of these teams. As is any other East team. Those games tonight were PHENOMENAL!!

[chiznaz]

Kwame is a little bitch. he better get a game for that. Also, I Diaw was pushed into the lakers player at the very beginning, not much you can do there. This isn't a series until Nash and Kobe throw down. I want to see Nash put Kobe in a suplex or something:lol

As for the Spurs-Kings game.... that was hard to watch. The was a Merry Christmas layup. The Spurs will close this out and move on though.

[bense27]

They've already advanced to the second round.
they are amazing....

[justinandimcool]

Kwame is a little bitch. he better get a game for that. Also, I Diaw was pushed into the lakers player at the very beginning, not much you can do there. This isn't a series until Nash and Kobe throw down. I want to see Nash put Kobe in a suplex or something:lol

As for the Spurs-Kings game.... that was hard to watch. The was a Merry Christmas layup. The Spurs will close this out and move on though.

As much as I want the Spurs to lose, the Maloof brothers reminded me of how much I freaking despise the Kings. I'm still hoping for Sacramento just to clear up the west bracket a little more, but we all know it ain't happening.

A Kwame suspension would suck, but I'd welcome it with open arms to see what kind of character this Laker team brings under adversity.

[Dancing Ants]

As much as I want the Spurs to lose, the Maloof brothers reminded me of how much I freaking despise the Kings. I'm still hoping for Sacramento just to clear up the west bracket a little more, but we all know it ain't happening.

A Kwame suspension would suck, but I'd welcome it with open arms to see what kind of character this Laker team brings under adversity.

whatever it takes to slow the Spurs, i'm all for it. Mavs need to wrap up the Grizz in 2 more games and take a few days off.

[chiznaz]

As much as I want the Spurs to lose, the Maloof brothers reminded me of how much I freaking despise the Kings. I'm still hoping for Sacramento just to clear up the west bracket a little more, but we all know it ain't happening.

A Kwame suspension would suck, but I'd welcome it with open arms to see what kind of character this Laker team brings under adversity.

Well Kwame showed plenty of character with that stupid cheap hit. ;)

[1eyed_jack]

steve nash had lots of character the other day when he shoved someone who just happened to bump into him

[SmoothD41]

yeah Nash is turning into a little bitch lately.

[Fishbulb290]

Well Kwame showed plenty of character with that stupid cheap hit. ;)

As did Walton...

[justinandimcool]

asdl;ioa;;ligwejkl;kl;awelw!

[justinandimcool]

Every playoffs the Lakers are in they never cease to bring the excitement!

LUCKY, but AMAZING play!

[Fishbulb290]

I hate the Lakers so much.

[justinandimcool]

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!1 KOOOOOBBEEEEEE

there was a freaking dogpile in my living room with me and my cousins. freaking amazing.

[HolyCow]

That was an amazing ballgame.

I have disliked Kobe for a while, but I was rooting for him today.

[1eyed_jack]

first that tough layup and then that shot. you got to like where the lakers sit now. they have to go straight for the throat tuesday, no messing around

[Tiduwho]

F'ing Kobe.....



But anyways, lol @ Shaq's old ass. I can't believe Gary Payton, and what a dick he's being to Dwayne Wade. You're an old, tattered glove now Gary, shut up. This is D Wade's team. And don't go trying to give me that "Payton and him aren't actually arguing with each other, they're just trying to fire each other up." Lol.


But yeah, good win again. Hinrich is the man. He's going to blossom into the Poor Man's Steve Nash, just watch. Noc is such a beast. And Gordon, as usual, hitting the 3's.

[Fishbulb290]

I would love it if the Bulls took this series.

What's with Detroit?

I'd be worried if I was Flip. Not so much for the Bucks winning the series but that lousy show of defense the other night.

[HolyCow]

I used to be a Bulls fans, until the Hornets moved to OKC. Now of course, I am a hardcore Hornets fan. Just missed the playoffs.

But for the playoffs, I am pulling for the Bulls.

[ousooner]

first that tough layup and then that shot. you got to like where the lakers sit now. they have to go straight for the throat tuesday, no messing around
As I was watching that I thought there was no way that floater was going in and then when it did I just about blew the eardrum of my buddy I was talking to on the phone.

Edit: If Kobe could have only been satisfied playing this type of ball with Shaq........

[1eyed_jack]

the great thing about that play was that it was all reaction. the last thing i expected was the lakers to get a steal, but for kobe to be able to react like that and go from expecting a foul to running a fast break is impressive. you don't even have time to think about the shot you just do it

[Dancing Ants]

San Antoniowned.

^^ it's gonna happen tonight. good for Sac.

[Dancing Ants]

13 point game. i love seein SA get beat.

[Fishbulb290]

I think this potential Sacramento/Dallas match-up looks very exciting.

[kderr88]

I want Sacramento to take the Spurs to 7 hard games. Things are falling into place nicely for the Mavericks. Suns are toast and SA is far from a well oiled machine. This could be the Mavs year. Avery Johnson is no Don Nelson, thankfully!

[Dancing Ants]

i like Don a lot. the type of game he coached just can't cut it in the playoffs though.

and yes....if the Mavs keep it going like they have been, we could be in for a really fun next two months.

ps- i wouldn't go that far Fishbulb. they're back in SA next.

[DMBfan41]

what a horrible Laker advantage.

Nash gets mugged and forced into a jump-all.

bullshit

[SmoothD41]

Nash didn't even get fouled. Even if he had gotten fouled, it wouldn't be called at that stage of the game. He has turned into quite a little bitch with his two MVPs. He used to be my favorite player four or five years ago, now I'm really starting to dislike him.

[kjzz12]

That Lakers game was freaking awesome. What did Kwame do that you guys want him suspended for? I must have missed it...

[dmbisgod]

what a horrible Laker advantage.

Nash gets mugged and forced into a jump-all.

bullshit

somebody bitter or did you just not see the game?

[dmbisgod]

nash didnt deserve this years mvp at all

[justinandimcool]

nash didnt deserve this years mvp at all

Well, if anyone else won it there'd still be just as much skepticism. Might as well give it to the guy who makes his teammates better.

[bubba40]

nash didnt deserve this years mvp at all

Hindsight is 20/20. The MVP award is strictly for the regular season.

[justinandimcool]

I wonder what the Laker record would be if they played like this all season.

Better or worse? Keep in mind it took a long time for these guys to develop. If they played like a team when these players were still playing like crap, production would've still been low for a few months. Quite debatable. Oh well, play like this next year.

[bubba40]

I wonder what the Laker record would be if they played like this all season.

Better or worse? Keep in mind it took a long time for these guys to develop. If they played like a team when these players were still playing like crap, production would've still been low for a few months. Quite debatable. Oh well, play like this next year.

I wouldn't be worried about next year, THIS year's team has a legitimate shot @ the conference finals, and from there it's anybody's ballgame.

[justinandimcool]

I wouldn't be worried about next year, THIS year's team has a legitimate shot @ the conference finals, and from there it's anybody's ballgame.

Too bad we don't have a shot vs Detroit/San Antonio/Dallas.

It's gonna be a fun ride, but it will end badly. (just being realistic here)

Next year I believe we're one player away from being a title contender.

[bubba40]

Too bad we don't have a shot vs Detroit/San Antonio/Dallas.

It's gonna be a fun ride, but it will end badly. (just being realistic here)

Next year I believe we're one player away from being a title contender.

Who? It's a weak free-agent class, and Ben Wallace isn't leaving Detroit.

[justinandimcool]

Who? It's a weak free-agent class, and Ben Wallace isn't leaving Detroit.

Well if we can't get anyone, that's too bad.

The Lakers are missing something, and as well as Kwame is doing, he has to be replaced. Or at least moved to PF so we can get a tougher center. KG?

Edit: I know KG's a PF but he's a legit center.

[bubba40]

Well if we can't get anyone, that's too bad.

The Lakers are missing something, and as well as Kwame is doing, he has to be replaced. Or at least moved to PF so we can get a tougher center. KG?

Edit: I know KG's a PF but he's a legit center.

You could package Bynum, Odom, and some draft picks for a decent player. But that won't get you KG.

[justinandimcool]

You could package Bynum, Odom, and some draft picks for a decent player. But that won't get you KG.

Well it's a problem because I don't see them letting go of Odom. Which is why I think we're pretty much nothing but a 3rd round shoo-in team for the next 3 years, because we're always gonna be one player away.

[bubba40]

Well it's a problem because I don't see them letting go of Odom. Which is why I think we're pretty much nothing but a 3rd round shoo-in team for the next 3 years, because we're always gonna be one player away.

You gotta hope Bynum develops. Stupid lottery pick, IMO.

[justinandimcool]

You gotta hope Bynum develops. Stupid lottery pick, IMO.

Sure. His maximum potential doesn't surpass Kwame Brown's, especially in the near future. And two Kwame Browns don't make a right.

Unless Kobe and Lamar suddenly develop into the Batman and Robin they were supposed to be over the next few years, the Lakers will be the next Dallas Mavericks. Good enough to be a threat in the playoffs but never made it to the finals. This year has been great, but we need a miracle to have a shot at even making the finals. I have my doubts that we'll even be able to finish of Phoenix. It'll still be interesting to see how far we go.

[Fishbulb290]

i like Don a lot. the type of game he coached just can't cut it in the playoffs though.

and yes....if the Mavs keep it going like they have been, we could be in for a really fun next two months.

ps- i wouldn't go that far Fishbulb. they're back in SA next.

I know but it wasn't really a prediction as much as a hopeful thought.

[Fishbulb290]

That Lakers game was freaking awesome. What did Kwame do that you guys want him suspended for? I must have missed it...

Well he absolutely jacked Diaw (I think) in game 3. Diaw is reaching for the ball they get a little tangled and then Kwame throws him to the floor hard.

So seriously do they not even care. I didn't see ONE mention of this either on Sportscenter/pre-game(today's)/post-game(yesterday's). Now I know the league would really like the Lakers to win but I think is a serious oversight. Artest and Posey each did considerably less and got a game. As if I didn't have enough reason to hate the Lakers something like this happens.

Then they are 99% likely to get the Clippers in the next round and how unfair is that? They are going to have home-court throughout the next series. They are letting them walk into the West finals.

[SteelerMan]

My thoughts on the Lakers-Suns game...

Kobe's shots at the end of regulation and OT were amazing. That game winning shot is one that I'll most likely remember forever, and honestly, the first thing that jumped in my head after he hit it was Jordan hitting that shot against the Cavs. I take nothing away from the Lakers. The fact that Kobe Bryant is possibly my least favorite player in the league makes it hard to say that.

However, I don't think it should've reached that point. If Luke Walton hooking both arms around Nash's and jerking him around isn't a foul, then I don't know what is. I had two people in the room who know little about basketball, and they kept asking "Wait, what's a foul in basketball? I thought I knew, but I guess I don't." There is NO WAY you can call that a jumpball. You can say "Well, they're not going to call a foul at that stage of the game." Calling a bullshit jumpball at that stage of the game is MUCH worse than calling an obvious foul at that stage of the game. Not to mention there were at least three players trying to call a timeout prior to the ref calling for the jumpball.

With that being said, that one play didn't determine the outcome of the game. As strongly as I disagreed with that call, the Suns did plenty to give it away and the Lakers did plenty to win it. Even though I hate the Lakers, at this point a Lakers-Clippers matchup sounds a lot more interesting than a Suns-Clippers matchup.

[neumdogg]

I have to say, I have been VERY fortunate in which Lakers playoff games I have attended. The Robert Horry buzzer beater in the Western Conferece Finals after being down 30 points at the start of the 4th. The last game of the Finals in the first of 3-peat. The Kobe Bryant buzzer beater sending the game to overtime against Detroit 2 years ago.

And now yesterday's game. I mean words can't even describe how amazing that was to see. I have sprouted at least 35 gray hairs just in the last 10 minutes of that game!

GO LAKERS!

[neumdogg]

Damn it Kwame!!!

http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=sports&id=4136876

[justinandimcool]

Oh son of a bitch.

[justinandimcool]

Talk about the absolute least favorable time imaginable.

[marlin1805]

Kobe should win the MVP, not Nash

[Dancing Ants]

looks like SAC might still power past SA...93-95 SA right now i think.

[Fishbulb290]

Man, it's not on for me. I saw they were way down figured it was over...

[Dancing Ants]

yeah it's over. the spurs jumped to a 10 pt. lead it looks like. i'm just following espn.com.

SA 109
SAC 98

[Fishbulb290]

That one is most likely going to game 7 I think...

[justinandimcool]

Wow. The Lakers lose this game bad, they're done for the series. Not bouncing back after a bad loss if it happens.

[Fishbulb290]

Wow. The Lakers lose this game bad, they're done for the series. Not bouncing back after a bad loss if it happens.

You are so negative. You're supposed to be all "WOO HOO LAKERS KOBE ROX".

Anyway assuming that the Suns do win this game I think game 6 is going to be monumental.

[Dancing Ants]

typical lakers fan....have faith in your team.

i don't care who wins what as long as they all play to game 7s then have to play the Mavs two days later.

[justinandimcool]

You are so negative. You're supposed to be all "WOO HOO LAKERS KOBE ROX".

Anyway assuming that the Suns do win this game I think game 6 is going to be monumental.

Last time I did that that Pistons swept the Lakers 5-0. This team is just not as good or experienced. We get demoralized in game 5, the Suns have game 6 and 7 easy. Just too big of a momentum swing.

[Fishbulb290]

typical lakers fan....have faith in your team.

i don't care who wins what as long as they all play to game 7s then have to play the Mavs two days later.

Ya the Mavs have a nice advantage. Seem Memphis was the weakest team in the playoffs.

On another note I bet they wish they got the Nuggets in the 1st round after being the ONLY team in the playoffs to get swept.

[justinandimcool]

typical lakers fan....have faith in your team.

i don't care who wins what as long as they all play to game 7s then have to play the Mavs two days later.

Have faith in these 23 year old kids against an MVP run and gun team like the Suns. I know we have 3 games to work with, if there was ever a team that could still be vulnerable with a 3-1 lead, it's these Lakers. These Suns have them solved.

[justinandimcool]

I'm not trying to be so negative, I'm just saying that I won't breathe til the Lakers win that clinching game.

[Dancing Ants]

Ya the Mavs have a nice advantage. Seem Memphis was the weakest team in the playoffs.

On another note I bet they wish they got the Nuggets in the 1st round after being the ONLY team in the playoffs to get swept.

yeah i think the way they set up the playoffs is stupid. Mavs v. Suns in the second round? denver as the 3rd seed? insanity. :ugh

[Dancing Ants]

Have faith in these 23 year old kids against an MVP run and gun team like the Suns. I know we have 3 games to work with, if there was ever a team that could still be vulnerable with a 3-1 lead, it's these Lakers. These Suns have them solved.

no i feel ya man. i was just giving you a hard time. the lakers are dead. :angel

[justinandimcool]

no i feel ya man. i was just giving you a hard time. the lakers are dead. :angel

Unless Kobe goes off now because of that ridiculous Bell foul. CMON KOBE!

[Fishbulb290]

O boy thats not good for the Suns.

[Dancing Ants]

dammit.. what the hell? why would he go and do that...did you see the look on Nash's face? same question as me "did you HAVE to do that?"

[DMBfan41]

nice win for the Nets tonight. Vinsanity took over at the end!

[justinandimcool]

Kidding, game over. Dammit.

[Fishbulb290]

yeah i think the way they set up the playoffs is stupid. Mavs v. Suns in the second round? denver as the 3rd seed? insanity. :ugh

Well I am one of the few that think winning the division should get a 1-3 seed. Although I do think that record should determine home court.

And I thought the Mavs got the Spurs in the next round? Clippers vs. Lakers/Suns?

[Fishbulb290]

Ok so...

Does Bell get suspended?

This was worse than what Kwame did but I think it would be very hypocrtical to suspend Bell but not Kwame for that hit earlier in the series.

[Dancing Ants]

Well I am one of the few that think winning the division should get a 1-3 seed. Although I do think that record should determine home court.

And I thought the Mavs got the Spurs in the next round? Clippers vs. Lakers/Suns?

the mavs get the spurs/sac. clippers get lakers/suns.

[Fishbulb290]

the mavs get the spurs/sac. clippers get lakers/suns.

Ok that's what I thought was just confused by this.


yeah i think the way they set up the playoffs is stupid. Mavs v. Suns in the second round? denver as the 3rd seed? insanity. :ugh

[Dancing Ants]

whoops. i meant mavs v. spurs. guess my brain was hooked on this wrestling match of a game going right now.

[justinandimcool]

Shit, this is depressing. Need a miracle in game 6.


The reason I'm being so negative again is because the Suns have apparently figured the Lakers out. Now this is like if the Bucks (hypothetically) had a 3-1 lead on the Pistons and the Pistons destroyed them in game 5. You seriously think the Bucks will regain that confidence for games 6 and 7?

This is why I'm going insane right now. This sucks :(

[Fishbulb290]

Kobe got tossed too. He's resilient so not really anything to worry about with him. I would be worried about the teammates just losing all their cohesiveness.

[1eyed_jack]

if bell isn't suspended for a game i will quit watching the nba. you cannot allow a player to wrap someone around the throat like that and take him to the ground.

[1eyed_jack]

Shit, this is depressing. Need a miracle in game 6.


The reason I'm being so negative again is because the Suns have apparently figured the Lakers out. Now this is like if the Bucks (hypothetically) had a 3-1 lead on the Pistons and the Pistons destroyed them in game 5. You seriously think the Bucks will regain that confidence for games 6 and 7?

This is why I'm going insane right now. This sucks :(

don't worry, the suns should be without bell next game

[Fishbulb290]

whoops. i meant mavs v. spurs. guess my brain was hooked on this wrestling match of a game going right now.

It's cool. I'm loving this series though. I hope the rest of the playoffs have this much intensity.

[justinandimcool]

don't worry, the suns should be without bell next game

This would comfort me if this weren't the Phoenix Suns.

The problem is the Suns are playing their game and have figured the Lakers out. This has caused the Laker offense to come apart and the cohesiveness has broken down (as fishbulb said). I know this Laker team as much as the next guy, and after a crushing loss, there is ABSOLUTELY no telling how the next games will be, especially against a team as GREAT as the Suns. The Lakers need every player to play immaculately (especially defensively) in game 6, or we're done, and I will cry like a little bitch.

[1eyed_jack]

fuck steve nash. he's a little prick. he's great player, but off the court he seems like an asshole. saying how the league won't do anything about it because kwame knocked someone down and shoved his crotch in their face.

[Fishbulb290]

fuck steve nash. he's a little prick. he's great player, but off the court he seems like an asshole. saying how the league won't do anything about it because kwame knocked someone down and shoved his crotch in their face.

And he(Nash) is 100% right.

[1eyed_jack]

how? there's a difference between knocking somone down and going for the throat.

[justinandimcool]

And he(Nash) is 100% right.

:thumbsup Besides, he was playing the ball and just happened to grab Kobe's neck.


Sorry to sound like a broken record, but I haven't been so devastated after a Laker loss in a while. The defense reminded me so much of the regular season. I'm still recollecting tonight's game and I don't know what the hell even happened. I guess the Suns just made the shots they missed the rest of the series.

[SmoothD41]

yep, as I said a few days ago, Nash has turned into quite an arrogant prick with his 2 MVPs. He used to be my favorite player a few years ago. He really has no room to talk about the lack of calls. I don't give a shit who wins this series, but the officiating has been fine from what I have seen. Yes, even in game 4.

[justinandimcool]

Holy shit he wasn't playing the ball. That's a type of hit you get arrested for on the street. Cmon now.

[justinandimcool]

yep, as I said a few days ago, Nash has turned into quite an arrogant prick with his 2 MVPs. He used to be my favorite player a few years ago. He really has no room to talk about the lack of calls. I don't give a shit who wins this series, but the officiating has been fine from what I have seen. Yes, even in game 4.

Eh, the Lakers have had ALOT of bad calls go their way. I would love if Bell got suspended even though it won't affect much, but the Suns will be making lots of excuses about it if they lose.

And 2 MVP's = the right to be an arrogant prick. That's just the way things go, with the exception of Tim Duncan.

[Fishbulb290]

how? there's a difference between knocking somone down and going for the throat.

Maybe you missed what Kwame did. He didn't knock someone down. He lifted him and threw him to the ground. Similar to what Bell did. Now I'm not condoning either. They have no place in the NBA. But like I said earlier if you aren't going to suspend Kwame I don't see how in any sense you can suspend Bell.

[justinandimcool]

Maybe you missed what Kwame did. He didn't knock someone down. He lifted him and threw him to the ground. Similar to what Bell did. Now I'm not condoning either. They have no place in the NBA. But like I said earlier if you aren't going to suspend Kwame I don't see how in any sense you can suspend Bell.

Wait he didn't lift him what are you talking about? It was an elbow to the face right? Wow my memory is jumbled now.

And like Kenny Smith said, that shot to the throat (which I thought was playing the ball but after the replays nah) was twice as dangerous as Artest's elbow. The NBA has to be consistent with the Posey and the Artest suspensions, and just because they dropped the ball with the Kwame elbow, doesn't mean they should drop it again.

[1eyed_jack]

as bad as this sounds, and it will sound bad, but the league needs to protect their star players. if that happened to lebron they would be calling for bell to get kicked out of the league. and yes i know lebron was fouled hard but it was nothing like that. if nash was on the other end of that i'd have no doubt it would be a suspension. with kobe though you never know. he gets held to wierd standards sometimes

[Fishbulb290]

Wait he didn't lift him what are you talking about? It was an elbow to the face right? Wow my memory is jumbled now.

And like Kenny Smith said, that shot to the throat (which I thought was playing the ball but after the replays nah) was twice as dangerous as Artest's elbow. The NBA has to be consistent with the Posey and the Artest suspensions, and just because they dropped the ball with the Kwame elbow, doesn't mean they should drop it again.

Not if you see the replays. Kwame had his arm under Diaw's and lifted him and threw him to the ground.

Yes the NBA does have to be consistent. Which is why I was shocked Kwame wasn't suspended. Artest/Haslem/Posey all did considerably less than Kwame/Bell and got a game.

Ya and Bell wasn't going for the ball. I'll just say that I AM NO WAY saying what he did is okay and it should get a game hell the series would make sense. BUT I don't think you can do that after what Kwame did in game 3 (I think)(I've been watching a lot of basketball it's starting to run together.)

[justinandimcool]

as bad as this sounds, and it will sound bad, but the league needs to protect their star players. if that happened to lebron they would be calling for bell to get kicked out of the league. and yes i know lebron was fouled hard but it was nothing like that. if nash was on the other end of that i'd have no doubt it would be a suspension. with kobe though you never know. he gets held to wierd standards sometimes

It's just that Bell already has that reputation of being a hardnosed, aggressive defender, which could help his case with the NBA. They would say "yeah that's his game let's let it go, and besides how else could he have stopped Kobe", which is understandable logic. It depends on reputation.

[justinandimcool]

Not if you see the replays. Kwame had his arm under Diaw's and lifted him and threw him to the ground.

Yes the NBA does have to be consistent. Which is why I was shocked Kwame wasn't suspended. Artest/Haslem/Posey all did considerably less than Kwame/Bell and got a game.

Ya and Bell wasn't going for the ball. I'll just say that I AM NO WAY saying what he did is okay and it should get a game hell the series would make sense. BUT I don't think you can do that after what Kwame did in game 3 (I think)(I've been watching a lot of basketball it's starting to run together.)

Yeah, alot of things are going in Bell's favor now because they dropped the ball on Kwame. I'll live with it whether he gets suspended or not. If he gets suspended, the hatred for the Lakers will hit a peak because they "steal all the calls", which I guess will be worth it once I see Kobe hitting jumper after jumper after Barbosa. This is not how they are gonna win game 6 though. The reason why Bell is so meaningless now is because the Lakers still have to put up that team effort to put the hammer on the Suns, not by giving Kobe the opportunity to throw down 50. So if Bell gets suspended or not, the Lakers need to win it one way.

[1eyed_jack]

im amazed kobe kept his cool. if someone did that to me i can't say i'd do the same

[Fishbulb290]

Yeah, alot of things are going in Bell's favor now because they dropped the ball on Kwame. I'll live with it whether he gets suspended or not. If he gets suspended, the hatred for the Lakers will hit a peak because they "steal all the calls", which I guess will be worth it once I see Kobe hitting jumper after jumper after Barbosa. This is not how they are gonna win game 6 though. The reason why Bell is so meaningless now is because the Lakers still have to put up that team effort to put the hammer on the Suns, not by giving Kobe the opportunity to throw down 50. So if Bell gets suspended or not, the Lakers need to win it one way.

Truth.

I completely agree.

Jackson says he doesn't care if Bell is suspended. Says they need him out there...

[justinandimcool]

im amazed kobe kept his cool. if someone did that to me i can't say i'd do the same

He's always been known to keep his cool. And considering the playoffs circumstances, and just having a newborn, and knowing you're an amazing basketball player who can punch them back by scoring points (which he didn't sadly), it's not worth it to fight back.

[1eyed_jack]

it was too far gone anyway. hopefully they can get through this series. just shut the door on pheonix thursday night and don't look back. they just need an answer for tim thomas bad

[justinandimcool]

Truth.

I completely agree.

Jackson says he doesn't care if Bell is suspended. Says they need him out there...

The TNT guys just mentioned Reggie Evans who doesn't get suspended for his ball-grap on Chris Kaman. After the NBA dropped the ball on that, there's no way Bell get's suspended.

Now I'm excited to see Kobe's game 6 response to Bell (assuming they let Bell go.)

Edit: Which like I said, doesn't matter because they need to play team ball anyways. I'm trying my best not to contradict myself here :lol