Sep 5, 2020Liked by punk basketball, Daniel Hardee
I think Denver is a bit tired after a grueling series vs. the very tough Jazz, while the Clippers are just finally waking up to games that feel like they matter. I want Denver to win and I think Murray and Jokic can play way better than they did in game 1, but it feels like an extreme long shot for them to take the series.
The Lakers looked like they might be in trouble after the first game against the Blazers, too, but that never came to pass. The Rockets are probably more of a threat than that, but let's not project too far from one game. Ultimately it comes down to Houston's 3P%, LAL's rebounding, and, yes, the free throws. If the Rockets miss and they aren't bailed out by the refs, the Lakers just need to secure the ball and they'll secure the game. If the Rockets get hot, or get a lot of free points at the line, this LA team is in trouble.
Miami has been a sneaky good team all year. They were 1st in the standings for a big chunk of the season. They're balanced, modern, and fierce. Maybe Milwaukee is still shaken from non-basketball problems; I wouldn't blame them. I don't think they get swept, but I don't think the reverse sweep to escape 3-0 is coming. I also think it's disrespectful and wildly optimistic the way fans are circling like vultures hoping to come away with a Greek Freak by some miracle. Win or lose, I get the feeling that Giannis stays with Milwaukee to try and Figure It Out. He can still draft Steph (or vice-versa?) for his all-star appearance next season. I mean, unless they're both the captains, heh.
Toronto and Boston is a series that's far from over. I don't think I can make any predictions other than this will be the most exciting basketball to watch this round.
Oh boy, the Raptors Celtics series is so fun!! I want this to go to 7 please
I think Denver is a bit tired after a grueling series vs. the very tough Jazz, while the Clippers are just finally waking up to games that feel like they matter. I want Denver to win and I think Murray and Jokic can play way better than they did in game 1, but it feels like an extreme long shot for them to take the series.
The Lakers looked like they might be in trouble after the first game against the Blazers, too, but that never came to pass. The Rockets are probably more of a threat than that, but let's not project too far from one game. Ultimately it comes down to Houston's 3P%, LAL's rebounding, and, yes, the free throws. If the Rockets miss and they aren't bailed out by the refs, the Lakers just need to secure the ball and they'll secure the game. If the Rockets get hot, or get a lot of free points at the line, this LA team is in trouble.
Miami has been a sneaky good team all year. They were 1st in the standings for a big chunk of the season. They're balanced, modern, and fierce. Maybe Milwaukee is still shaken from non-basketball problems; I wouldn't blame them. I don't think they get swept, but I don't think the reverse sweep to escape 3-0 is coming. I also think it's disrespectful and wildly optimistic the way fans are circling like vultures hoping to come away with a Greek Freak by some miracle. Win or lose, I get the feeling that Giannis stays with Milwaukee to try and Figure It Out. He can still draft Steph (or vice-versa?) for his all-star appearance next season. I mean, unless they're both the captains, heh.
Toronto and Boston is a series that's far from over. I don't think I can make any predictions other than this will be the most exciting basketball to watch this round.