BL's Take: The Pistons did what they normally do in situations like this, and blew out the Sixers. They did not allow the young Philly team the opportunities to rally from behind as they got in the first game. Additionally, Andre Iguodala was held to 1-9 shooting, which was big as he is the Sixers most versatile offensive threat. In the end, the Pistons were able to tie the series after blowing the first game with somewhat of a nonchalant attitude. They'll go back to Philadelphia later this week and try to take the 2-1 series lead away from the Palace.
In order for Philadelphia to win either of their home games, they must get Andre Iguodala easy shots, either in transition or in the half-court, as we know they won't be from the perimeter. Philly got some help from their bench guys, three scoring double figures (Louis Williams, Reggie Evans DOUBLE DOUBLE, and Rodney Carney) but Iguodala is the key to Philly's offense, and their future.
BL's Take: We're not even going to talk about the Celtics, because it seems like they did just about everything correctly; they played team ball, doubled the Hawks in the assist category, and had 15 steals! 15! That is some good defense. So…let's forget about the Celtics for a couple of minutes…
And talk about that Hawks. What did the Hawks do? Well…not much. 10 assists for the entire game?! 38% from the field?! And they didn't hit one single solitary 3 pointer! Considering that they have several perimeter threats, I would venture to say the Hawks are playing scared. Certainly, they are playing the best team in the NBA, but you have to come out with some fire and compete, which is what every NBA coach that every coached in the league will tell you. It is unreal that the Celtics are beating them like dogs, and they aren't even putting up a fight. The Hawks need to hunker down and try to get things right, or the C's will be bringing out the broom to sweep this trash up.
BL's Take: Well the Nuggets came out, like they always do, looking to outscore their opponent, playing very little defense. And the end result? Lakers route them. If the Nuggets have any hope of winning either one of their home games and preventing a sweep, they need to tap into their inner Marcus Camby and get the job done on that end of the floor, because the Lakers are more talented than the Nuggets at both sides of the floor.
And what of Kobe?! 49 points, 10 assists! Those are great statistics from BL's MVP. Pau had another nice game, and it looks like the Lakers are going to the Semis against the Jazz. The Nuggets will get another chance at home, but I feel like a comeback is unlikely given how well the Lakers are playing right now. Too versatile, too unstoppable…the LA Lakers rise again!
That's it for me! Send any and all feedback to Robert.lowhorn@gmail.com. Also, I am liquidating my comics collection, got tons and tons of X-Men, a lot of Avengers and Spider-Man as well. If you need it, and I have it, I am certain we can come to an arrangement!
