Time for Round 2 thoughts!
Eastern Conference
4. Boston Celtics vs. 8. Philadelphia 76ers
I am still bummed by the Derrick Rose injury and I hope he will be able to come back 100%. But that's basketball, injuries and breaks are part of the game. It was unfortunate that that happened and I feel for the Bulls fans. Enter though the 76ers who took the opportunity and moved on to the second round. I'm actually happy for them as this franchise have been through a lot. I kinda wish though that my hero Allen Iverson was still with the team. Now, we get a classic match-up C's vs. Sixers! (Remeber Russell-Chamberlain, Doc-Bird! Etc!)
I'm not sure though if the Sixers can pull off another upset, especially against the former champions. Rajon Rondo is a fantastic basketball player; he seems to always make the right decision at every play. He'll be Philly's number 1 problem. The key for the C's will be if Kevin Garnett can continue to play at a high level despite his age. His inside presence offensively and defensively has been huge for the Celtics this season. Meanwhile for Philly, if they have an advantage, its their youth and athleticism. If they can, they should run Boston to the ground. They have Andre Igoudala, Lou Williams, and Jrue Holiday to do that for them. They key for them however will be "could be Brandon Roy second coming" Evan Turner. If he can play at high level, and I think he's capable, then the Sixers have a chance.
Prediction: Celtics in 5
2. Miami Heat vs. 3. Indiana Pacers
First of all, congrats to Lebron for winning the MVP. Hate his guts, but he deserved this one. He had a stellar season. Now time to get that ring. Up next for him will be the Pacers. Now, clearly the Heat is the more talented team with their big 3 and it is enough to overwhelm to the green Pacers. Now, for the Pacers to have a chance in this series, they must somehow find a way to neutralize the Heat fastbreak. Wade and Lebron are just unstoppable in the open court and they get a lot of points from it. On offense, just like in the previous series, Roy Hibbert's got to dominate. Tough to ask from the young guy but it is what it is. They need him to produce if they want to have a chance and I think he can when he's against Anthony, Turiaf and even Bosh. Finally, Danny Granger's got to play. Time to prove if he's got it in him or not.
For the Heat meanwhile, Wade and Lebron will be too much for the Pacers. But a key factor for the Heat will be if guys like Mike Miller, Shane Battier, Mario Chalmers and, James Jones hit their 3's. Wade and Lebron are great passers and these guys will get their open looks from the outside. They are just at another level when those 3's start dropping. But regardless, the Heat and the Pacers just aren't in the same level. Thus...
Prediction: Heat in 5
Now, if only the West could hurry up and finish their First Round...
Currently listening to: Be With You by Mr. Big
Currently reading: The Girl Who Played with Fire
Currently watching: ASAP!
Currently feeling: weird
