NBA Playoffs 2010: The first round

Lakers vs Thunder

The Oklahoma Thunder are in the playoffs for the first time since their move from Seattle (Supersonics), and with Kevin Durant leading the way, they are hoping to gain some experience before becoming an elite team in the years to come.  But its still Laker time.  Ron Artest is playing Dennis Rodman like defense, keeping KD shooting under 30%.  Bryant is also a great defender, plus they have two 7 footers.  I don't see anyone out west beating them beside Dallas.

Magic vs Bobcats

Howard's first game into the playoffs and he was frustrated by the Bobcat's front line.  He's not going to have a bad game every game, but it was great to see Jameer Nelson step up, scoring 36 pts 4 rebs 6 assists.  Lewi, Pietrus and Reddick had solid games and it was enough for a win even with VC playing badly.  I think the Magic will bounce back from this bad performance and play better as the playoffs go along, which is scary considering how deep they are.  Its no secret I'm vouching for a Magic Lakers finals rematch with the Magic finally winning that championship.

This still has Orlando fans angry...



Celtics vs Heat

I don't really care who wins this series, winner goes on to play Cleveland who will eventually make it through to the conference finals anyway.  I really like Paul Pierce, and I really like Dwayne Wade, so I'm just sitting back and enjoying an intense defensive series.


And just for fun... NBA's Record for most 3 pts by a team, staring the Orlando Magic...

NBA Preview: Lakers

Key addition: Ron Artest
Key loss: Trevor Ariza

Since we are already into the season, I am kind of cheating when I say that this team is going to top the league.  Not that thats a surprise!  Fresh of a championship after a great season, Kobe has had plenty of rest, unlike the past summers where he has been playing for Team USA.  As we can see already with Bynum and Gasol out, Kobe has adapted his play and elevated the rest of the team.  When their team gets back healthy, they are going to be rolling on all cylinders until the playoffs.

The Artest Ariza swap is probably in Houstons favour looking in hindsight.  Artest was considered a better more rounded player, both offensively and defensively.  But Ariza is young and has a much greater upside, that could have helped the Lakers in the future.  But when you have Kobe just pasted his prime, its probably a safe bet to get someone like Artest and get you that next Championship ring.

The biggest problem for this team I see is complacency, and off-court drama.  But with the loss to the Celtics not too long ago, I don't think Bryant or Artest will let that happen.  Lakers win 65+

Orlando going down 3-1

Well after game 4, with Orlando going down 3-1 to Los Angeles in the NBA Finals, its pretty much all over. I strongly support the Magic and Dwight Howard but its just not their time yet. Dwight play really well on the defensive end but lacks the offensive presence to take over the game like a true superstar.

In other news, my second favorite NBA team are favored to win it all. For those interested, here's my top preferences.

Orlando Magic

LA Lakers

Miami Heat

Chicago Bulls

Boston Celtics