Post by ianboyd on Jul 22, 2010 4:29:45 GMT -5
It's that time of the year, when the trade deadline is fast approaching and teams are gearing up for the post season. Without further delay, here is my projections of how the post season will play out (based on current seeding):
Round 1
The East
Toronto Raptors (1) vs New York Knicks (8)
Regular Season meetings: Raptors sweeping the series 4-0
Toronto Raptors
Key Players: Karl Malone (PF), Michael Jordan (SF), Kobe Bryant (SG)
Strength: Multiple players capable of carrying the load on any given night, can hold opponents well below their average scoring, lengthy players that actively seek to disrupt the passing lanes and block shots.
Weakness: Point guard play
Top Offensive Statistics: 106.2 points per game (2nd), 28.5 assists per game (1st), 41.3 field goals per game (1st), 48.9 % field goal percentage (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: 54.1 rebounds per game (1st), 9.3 steals per game (tied 1st), 8.5 blocks per game (1st), 90.6 points allowed per game (2nd), 46.8 rebounds allowed per game (2nd), 22.1 assists allowed per game (1st)
Team Overview: From the beginning of the season, this has been considered by many to be the best team in the league and they have clearly shown that. Their offense has performed up to any and all possible expectations as all 3 of their key players score well over 24 points per game. Despite their lack of quality from their point guards, this team is so overloaded with talent from every other position that this is a non factor.
New York Knicks
Key Players: Steve Francis (PG), Antoine Walker (PF), Anfernee Hardaway (SF)
Strength: Can score the ball in a hurry, have multiple 3 point shooters to space the floor.
Weakness: Lack of a true glass eater and shot blocker, gives up more points than any other team, opponents shoot close to 50%
Top Offensive Statistics: 107.0 points per game (1st), 8.1 3-pointers per game (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: 9.0 steals per game (3rd) 14.9 turnovers per game from opponents (3rd)
Team Overview: This is your classic case of fast break basketball, the Knicks are the league's highest scoring team and best 3 point shooting team and can blow out an opponent in a single quarter when on any given night. The problem however, is that the same can be said about any team that plays AGAINST the Knicks, who despite their offensive prowess, also gives up more points than any team in the league and seemingly allows the opposition to shoot uncontested shots.
The Breakdown: For the Knicks to have any shot at upsetting the best team in the league, they have to exploit their one and only mismatch: Steve Francis at the point guard position who, in their 4 losses against the Raptors is the most consistent scorer. Even though Walker and Hardaway are capable scorers, they are simply outmatched by who they'll be going up against: Karl Malone and Michael Jordan.
The closest game the Knicks got of winning against the Raptors this season? A 20 point loss...at home, nothing should suggest any differently in the post season.
The Prediction: Raptors win 4-0
Orlando Magic (2) vs Cleveland Cavaliers (7)
Regular Season meetings: series split 2 games each
Orlando Magic
Key Players: Rasheed Wallace (PF), Sam Cassell (PG), Shareef Abdur-Rahim (SF)
Strength: Balanced between offense and defensive, knows how to find the foul line and take advantage of if, can create nightmare match up problems with their size in the front court.
Weakness: Not a strong 3 point shooting team, lack of rebounding production in the 2nd unit
Top Offensive Statistics: 103.9 points per game (4th) 27.3 free throws attempted per game (tied 2nd), 20.0 free throws made per game (2nd)
Top Defensive Statistics: 52.1 rebounds per game (tied 3rd), 6.2 blocks per game (3rd)
Team Overview: If the Raptors were the consensus #1 team in the league, many would consider the Magic the 2nd best, at first glance, this isn't a team that jumps out at you, there isn't anyone that will drop 50 on you or put up sink 6 shots from down town. However, this is a solid team in just about every regard, they have a solid rebounding and shot blocking force, a veteran point guard, versatile wing players and a bonafide superstar, if one thing doesn't work on a particular night, they have the luxury of plan B or C.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Key Players: Stephon Marbury (PG), Elton Brand (PF), Ruben Patterson (SF)
Strength: Potent offensive productions from their best 2 players, takes care of the ball relatively well.
Weakness: Prone to be out rebounded by the opposition, gives up huge scoring runs, allows too many free throws
Top Offensive Statistics: 104.6 points per game (3rd), 41.0 field goals per game (2nd),
Top Defensive Statistics: 14.9 opponent turn overs per game (tied 2nd)
Team Overview: This is a very interesting team, with the right circumstances, they can make a deep run in the playoffs. However, they are just as likely to be bounced out in the first round if things don't go as planned. With their "small ball" approach, they can be a nightmare when it comes to match ups, nearly every player on the roster is long, lengthy and quick but a lack of true rebounding force down low has often proven to be fatal.
The Breakdown: This is possibly the most intriguing first round match-up for the playoffs. Both teams are very similar, they split the season series but ironically, neither team has managed to win at home and nearly every single game has come down to a huge 4th quarter run from the road team.
However, that trend will likely come to a stop in the post season as games are decided in the trenches where size, rebounding and points in the paint play a major factor.
The Prediction: Orlando Magic win 4-3
Washington Bullets (3) vs Atlanta Hawks (6)
Regular Season meetings: Hawks win the series 2-1
Washington Bullets
Key Players: Shaquille O'Neal (C), Predrag Stojakovic (SF), Bonzi Wells (SG)
Strength: Dominant inside game, scores the ball at a high efficiency, easy 3 point opportunities from their inside out approach.
Weakness: Prone to turnovers, blows many opportunities at the free throw line, lack of speed and athleticism could prove to be a downfall.
Top Offensive Statistics: 27.7 assists per game (2nd), 48.6% field goal percentage (2nd), 27.6 free throws attempted per game (2nd), 39.7% 3 point percentage (4th)
Top Defensive Statistics: 46.1 rebounds allowed per game (1st)
Team Overview: This is the definition of an inside outside team, their offensive game plan is simple, take the ball up the floor and at the first opportunity, throw it down low to Shaq and go from there. At 7'1'' and 330 lbs, O'Neal will always demand a double team if not a triple team, which leads to their outside game and opens up many easy 3 point opportunities, it sounds simple but is it oh so effective.
Atlanta Hawks
Key Players: Kevin Garnett (PF), Antawn Jamison (SF), Arvydas Sabonis (C)
Strength: Tremendous depth down low, multiple big men who can score around the rim, shares the ball well.
Weakness: Doesn't defend the paint well, lacks legit scoring in the back court.
Top Offensive Statistics: 26.9 assist per game (3rd)
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a team that has seen their fair share of bad luck when it comes to injuries, an early season Patella Tendinitis has kept Garnett sidelined for much of the season, and just as he is about to recover, they lose their starting PG for another 2 months. However, despite these setbacks, the Hawks find themselves right in the thick of the playoff race. This is a team that is incredibly deep in the front court, especially now that they'll have Garnett back for the playoffs which will be vital especially considering their first round match.
The Breakdown: The biggest question of the series will be how well the Hawks can contain Shaq without resorting to double and triple teaming him, especially since they'll likely be without their starting PG for much of the playoffs, if Shaq cannot be contained, it will effectively neutralize any depth advantage the Hawks have as their starting bigs are riddled with foul trouble.
The Prediction: Bullets win 4-2
Philadelphia 76ers (4) vs Boston Celtics (5)
Regular Season meetings: Celtics lead 2-1 (1 game remaining)
Philadelphia 76ers
Key Players: Grant Hill (SF), Antonio McDyess (PF), Kerry Kittles (SG)
Strength: Potent inside scoring from the block and slashing, gets to the line multiple times and converts their chances.
Weakness: Lack of scoring threat from the back court or long range shooting
Top Offensive Statistics: 47.3% field goal percentage (3rd), 27.9 free throws attempted per game (1st), 20.4 free throws made per game (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a team that is tailor made to combat a fast paced run and gun offensive team, with their focus on the driving to the rim, this is the best team in the league at getting to the line, converting them into points and stopping the opponent's momentum from fast breaks. However, with the lack of a true 3 point threat and the more physical play in the post season in which refs will often allow more contact, teams can pack their defense in around the paint and force the 76ers to beat them from down town, something they aren't accustomed to.
Boston Celtics
Key Players: Chris Webber (PF), Shawn Marion (SF), Damon Stoudamire (PG)
Strength: Multiple glass eaters that look to actively rebound the ball, good blend of balanced scoring, legit size in multiple positions
Weakness: Finesse players that can be out muscled in the paint, lack of a defensive niche that can be exploited by teams that focus on 1 area.
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: 47.3 rebounds allowed per game (3rd)
Team Overview: Perhaps the most "balanced" team in the league from either sides of the ball, looking at the stats, there isn't a single area that the Celtics excel at, however, there isn't a single area that the Celtics are horrible at either, this versatility can be very frustrating to opponents as they have so many options to score the ball. Defensively speaking, with as many 7 footers as they have, you will rarely out rebound this team, however, since they aren't particularly strong at either blocking the ball, teams that gamble on pounding the ball down low could find success against them.
The Breakdown: This is another odd match up in which neither team has won at home, in a match up between the 4 and 5 seed, all bets are off and anyone's guess is as good as the next persons, but a slight advantage in size and a legitimate threat in the back court could prove to be the difference for the Celtics.
The Prediction: Celtics win 4-3
The West
Utah Jazz (1) vs Memphis Grizzlies (8)
Regular Season Meetings: Jazz wins series 3-1
Utah Jazz
Key Players: Gary Payton (PG), Corey Maggette (SG), Raef LaFrentz (PF)
Strength: rarely turns the ball over, shares the ball well, capable of containing any scorer
Weakness: Depth at the point guard (injury) position, lack of a true go to scorer since trading away their #1 option Eddie Jones (
)
Top Offensive Statistics: 26.7 assists per game (4th), 11.5 turnovers per game (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: 5.2 blocks per game (5th)
Team Overview: Before the injury to their starting point guard, this would have been considered without a doubt the best team in the West, but now with Payton likely out for the start of the playoffs, the Jazz must rely on their wings to create scoring opportunities for themselves. Despite this, their scorers are well capable of getting off their own shots and maintain their style of play without too much trouble.
Memphis Grizzlies
Key Players: Alonzo Mourning (C), Glenn Robinson (SF), Latrell Sprewell (SG)
Strength: Protects the rim well, Veteran leadership in multiple positions, capable shooters that can space the floor well.
Weakness: Doesn't get to the foul line often, significant drop off in scoring capabilities in the 2nd unit
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: 6.3 blocks per game (2nd)
Team Overview: The playoffs often come down to scoring in the paint and protecting the paint and the Grizzlies can do both extremely well, with the league leader in blocks Mourning patrolling the paint, scoring opportunities around the rim will be scarce, one area of concern is the depth of this team as the 2nd unit simply cannot function without relying on 1 starter on the floor with them. This could be cause for concern when not a single backup is capable of scoring more than 9 points per game.
The Breakdown: The difference in this series could simply come down to the unfortunate injury to Gary Payton as there is no one on the Jazz roster is capable of matching up with John Stockton on top of their already glaring mismatch of having no one to guard Alonzo Mourning.
The Prediction: Grizzlies win 4-2
Los Angeles Lakers (2) vs Los Angeles Clippers (7)
Regular Season meetings: Lakers lead 3-0 (1 game remaining)
Los Angeles Lakers
Key Players: Jason Kidd (PG), Eddie House (SG), Tim Thomas (SF)
Strength: Stellar point guard play, solid defense around the paint
Weakness: Lack of a true #2 option, has to rely too much on the point guard to make plays, mediocre scoring in the paint
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: 8.8 steals per game (5th)
Team overview: This is a team that lives and dies by their star player, as the record setter for almost every single offensive category, without a big game from Jason Kidd, this team will not win many playoff games. With their low post scoring, or lack of, the Lakers will depend on the best point guard in the league for each and every single game.
Los Angeles Clippers
Key Players: Baron Davis (PG), Marcus Camby (C), Clifford Robinson (SF)
Strength: multiple shooters that can shoot from beyond the 3 point line, Good interior defense and rebounding
Weakness: Lack of a true offensive threat
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: The Clippers are what you would call, an average team and their record of .500 shows that. While their 3 point shooters are certainly capable of going on hot shooting streaks to put up huge numbers, there just isn't enough fire power on this team to make a deep playoff run.
The Breakdown: In this match up for supremacy in the city of angels, the series could simply come down to point guard play. Neither team has too much scoring outside of their ball handler and neither team is a lock down defensive team. While it is true that Baron Davis is one of the budding young stars at his position, the problem for him is that he is playing against the best PG in league, in every one of their prior meetings, Jason Kidd has outplayed Baron Davis, look for the trend to continue in the playoffs as the Lakers reign supreme in LA.
The Prediction: Lakers win 4-1
Houston Rockets (3) vs Portland Trailblazers (6)
Regular Season meetings: Trailblazers lead 2-1 (1 game remaining)
Houston Rockets
Key Players: Vince Carter (SG), Zydrunas Ilgauskas (C), Kurt Thomas (PF)
Strength: rarely turns the ball over, rebounds the ball well, solid perimeter defense
Weakness: cannot take advantage of their many trips to the foul line, lack of a quality 2nd option on offense
Top Offensive Statistics: 12.1 turnovers per game (2nd)
Top Defensive Statistics: 52.9 rebounds per game (2nd), 44.3% field goal defense (5th)
Team Overview: For the most part of the season, this was considered the 2nd best team in the West behind the Jazz, with the recent injury problems in Utah, the Rockets have now firmly solidified their position as the #1 team in the West. For them to make a deep run into the playoffs and even possibly making it to the Finals, their leading scorer Vince Carter will have to do some extra heavy lifting and put his team on his back
Portland Trailblazers
Key Players: Andre Miller (PG), Richard Hamilton (SG), Joe Smith (PF)
Strength: Solid production in the back court, lengthy in the front court
Weakness: lack of scoring presence in the paint, point guard prone to turnover problems
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a fairly young team, and like any young team, their starters lack the necessary experience to make a deep playoff run, while Eddy Curry is a star center in the making, he is still rather raw and needs a few more years to refine his game before the Blazers can have enough of an inside presence to command respect from other teams.
The Breakdown: another series in which the home team has yet to win one, the Rockets ultimate goal will be the Finals while the Blazers are just happy to be there for the most part, in a playoff series, points in the paint and star players make the difference, and the difference between them are significant.
The Prediction: Rockets win 4-2
Dallas Mavericks (4) vs Golden State Warriors (5)
Regular Season meeting: Warriors lead 2-1 (1 game remaining)
Dallas Mavericks
Key Players: Tim Duncan (C), Ray Allen (SG), Mookie Blaylock (PG)
Strength: Solid inside outside scoring, good assist to turnover ratio, solid interior defense.
Weakness: lack of a lock down perimeter defender, no viable 3rd scoring option
Top Offensive Statistics: 12.5 turnovers per game (tied 3rd)
Top Defensive Statistics: 14.5 turnovers per game from opponents (2nd)
Team Overview: A team that sacrificed the future for the present, even though they are left without a 1st round pick for the next 2 years, the rewards have proven to be somewhat worth the gamble. With a potent one-two punch in Duncan and Allen, teams cannot focus too much on stopping the inside OR the outside game. Although they are solid defensively in the paint, the Mavericks have shown a tendency to allow huge scoring games from perimeter players, and come playoff time, it could mean the difference between advancing or going home.
Golden State Warriors
Key Players: Allen Houston (SG), Dikembe Mutombo (C), Steve Nash (PG)
Strength: Terrific defense and rebounding, solid perimeter scoring, converts their foul line trips into points often
Weakness: turns the ball over too many times
Top Offensive Statistics: 75.8% free throw percentage (2nd), 5.6 3-pointers per game (4th), 40.7% 3-point percentage (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a team that can space the floor extremely well, a classic case of outside inside game, teams are forced to send help around the perimeter which the Warriors can take advantage of and lead pass into the lane for easy buckets around the rim, despite hurling up so many long range jumpers, the Warriors don't give up as many points as their play style would suggest thanks in large part to the league rebounding leader Dikembe Mutombo whose efforts will be even more heavily leaned on for their post season run.
The Breakdown: Another 4 5 match up and another coin toss, however, the play style of the Warriors matches up extremely well with the Mavs as the outside shooting game of the Warriors seem to cause match up problems every time these teams meet up, if Dallas cannot contain the perimeter game of the Warriors, look for Golden State to advance.
The Prediction: Warriors win 4-2
Round 2 and later to come tomorrow....round 1 took 6 hours, I shit you not, later rounds should come faster. Please do not rate (unless you feel like giving me a 5) until I finish.
Round 1
The East
Toronto Raptors (1) vs New York Knicks (8)
Regular Season meetings: Raptors sweeping the series 4-0
Toronto Raptors
Key Players: Karl Malone (PF), Michael Jordan (SF), Kobe Bryant (SG)
Strength: Multiple players capable of carrying the load on any given night, can hold opponents well below their average scoring, lengthy players that actively seek to disrupt the passing lanes and block shots.
Weakness: Point guard play
Top Offensive Statistics: 106.2 points per game (2nd), 28.5 assists per game (1st), 41.3 field goals per game (1st), 48.9 % field goal percentage (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: 54.1 rebounds per game (1st), 9.3 steals per game (tied 1st), 8.5 blocks per game (1st), 90.6 points allowed per game (2nd), 46.8 rebounds allowed per game (2nd), 22.1 assists allowed per game (1st)
Team Overview: From the beginning of the season, this has been considered by many to be the best team in the league and they have clearly shown that. Their offense has performed up to any and all possible expectations as all 3 of their key players score well over 24 points per game. Despite their lack of quality from their point guards, this team is so overloaded with talent from every other position that this is a non factor.
New York Knicks
Key Players: Steve Francis (PG), Antoine Walker (PF), Anfernee Hardaway (SF)
Strength: Can score the ball in a hurry, have multiple 3 point shooters to space the floor.
Weakness: Lack of a true glass eater and shot blocker, gives up more points than any other team, opponents shoot close to 50%
Top Offensive Statistics: 107.0 points per game (1st), 8.1 3-pointers per game (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: 9.0 steals per game (3rd) 14.9 turnovers per game from opponents (3rd)
Team Overview: This is your classic case of fast break basketball, the Knicks are the league's highest scoring team and best 3 point shooting team and can blow out an opponent in a single quarter when on any given night. The problem however, is that the same can be said about any team that plays AGAINST the Knicks, who despite their offensive prowess, also gives up more points than any team in the league and seemingly allows the opposition to shoot uncontested shots.
The Breakdown: For the Knicks to have any shot at upsetting the best team in the league, they have to exploit their one and only mismatch: Steve Francis at the point guard position who, in their 4 losses against the Raptors is the most consistent scorer. Even though Walker and Hardaway are capable scorers, they are simply outmatched by who they'll be going up against: Karl Malone and Michael Jordan.
The closest game the Knicks got of winning against the Raptors this season? A 20 point loss...at home, nothing should suggest any differently in the post season.
The Prediction: Raptors win 4-0
Orlando Magic (2) vs Cleveland Cavaliers (7)
Regular Season meetings: series split 2 games each
Orlando Magic
Key Players: Rasheed Wallace (PF), Sam Cassell (PG), Shareef Abdur-Rahim (SF)
Strength: Balanced between offense and defensive, knows how to find the foul line and take advantage of if, can create nightmare match up problems with their size in the front court.
Weakness: Not a strong 3 point shooting team, lack of rebounding production in the 2nd unit
Top Offensive Statistics: 103.9 points per game (4th) 27.3 free throws attempted per game (tied 2nd), 20.0 free throws made per game (2nd)
Top Defensive Statistics: 52.1 rebounds per game (tied 3rd), 6.2 blocks per game (3rd)
Team Overview: If the Raptors were the consensus #1 team in the league, many would consider the Magic the 2nd best, at first glance, this isn't a team that jumps out at you, there isn't anyone that will drop 50 on you or put up sink 6 shots from down town. However, this is a solid team in just about every regard, they have a solid rebounding and shot blocking force, a veteran point guard, versatile wing players and a bonafide superstar, if one thing doesn't work on a particular night, they have the luxury of plan B or C.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Key Players: Stephon Marbury (PG), Elton Brand (PF), Ruben Patterson (SF)
Strength: Potent offensive productions from their best 2 players, takes care of the ball relatively well.
Weakness: Prone to be out rebounded by the opposition, gives up huge scoring runs, allows too many free throws
Top Offensive Statistics: 104.6 points per game (3rd), 41.0 field goals per game (2nd),
Top Defensive Statistics: 14.9 opponent turn overs per game (tied 2nd)
Team Overview: This is a very interesting team, with the right circumstances, they can make a deep run in the playoffs. However, they are just as likely to be bounced out in the first round if things don't go as planned. With their "small ball" approach, they can be a nightmare when it comes to match ups, nearly every player on the roster is long, lengthy and quick but a lack of true rebounding force down low has often proven to be fatal.
The Breakdown: This is possibly the most intriguing first round match-up for the playoffs. Both teams are very similar, they split the season series but ironically, neither team has managed to win at home and nearly every single game has come down to a huge 4th quarter run from the road team.
However, that trend will likely come to a stop in the post season as games are decided in the trenches where size, rebounding and points in the paint play a major factor.
The Prediction: Orlando Magic win 4-3
Washington Bullets (3) vs Atlanta Hawks (6)
Regular Season meetings: Hawks win the series 2-1
Washington Bullets
Key Players: Shaquille O'Neal (C), Predrag Stojakovic (SF), Bonzi Wells (SG)
Strength: Dominant inside game, scores the ball at a high efficiency, easy 3 point opportunities from their inside out approach.
Weakness: Prone to turnovers, blows many opportunities at the free throw line, lack of speed and athleticism could prove to be a downfall.
Top Offensive Statistics: 27.7 assists per game (2nd), 48.6% field goal percentage (2nd), 27.6 free throws attempted per game (2nd), 39.7% 3 point percentage (4th)
Top Defensive Statistics: 46.1 rebounds allowed per game (1st)
Team Overview: This is the definition of an inside outside team, their offensive game plan is simple, take the ball up the floor and at the first opportunity, throw it down low to Shaq and go from there. At 7'1'' and 330 lbs, O'Neal will always demand a double team if not a triple team, which leads to their outside game and opens up many easy 3 point opportunities, it sounds simple but is it oh so effective.
Atlanta Hawks
Key Players: Kevin Garnett (PF), Antawn Jamison (SF), Arvydas Sabonis (C)
Strength: Tremendous depth down low, multiple big men who can score around the rim, shares the ball well.
Weakness: Doesn't defend the paint well, lacks legit scoring in the back court.
Top Offensive Statistics: 26.9 assist per game (3rd)
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a team that has seen their fair share of bad luck when it comes to injuries, an early season Patella Tendinitis has kept Garnett sidelined for much of the season, and just as he is about to recover, they lose their starting PG for another 2 months. However, despite these setbacks, the Hawks find themselves right in the thick of the playoff race. This is a team that is incredibly deep in the front court, especially now that they'll have Garnett back for the playoffs which will be vital especially considering their first round match.
The Breakdown: The biggest question of the series will be how well the Hawks can contain Shaq without resorting to double and triple teaming him, especially since they'll likely be without their starting PG for much of the playoffs, if Shaq cannot be contained, it will effectively neutralize any depth advantage the Hawks have as their starting bigs are riddled with foul trouble.
The Prediction: Bullets win 4-2
Philadelphia 76ers (4) vs Boston Celtics (5)
Regular Season meetings: Celtics lead 2-1 (1 game remaining)
Philadelphia 76ers
Key Players: Grant Hill (SF), Antonio McDyess (PF), Kerry Kittles (SG)
Strength: Potent inside scoring from the block and slashing, gets to the line multiple times and converts their chances.
Weakness: Lack of scoring threat from the back court or long range shooting
Top Offensive Statistics: 47.3% field goal percentage (3rd), 27.9 free throws attempted per game (1st), 20.4 free throws made per game (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a team that is tailor made to combat a fast paced run and gun offensive team, with their focus on the driving to the rim, this is the best team in the league at getting to the line, converting them into points and stopping the opponent's momentum from fast breaks. However, with the lack of a true 3 point threat and the more physical play in the post season in which refs will often allow more contact, teams can pack their defense in around the paint and force the 76ers to beat them from down town, something they aren't accustomed to.
Boston Celtics
Key Players: Chris Webber (PF), Shawn Marion (SF), Damon Stoudamire (PG)
Strength: Multiple glass eaters that look to actively rebound the ball, good blend of balanced scoring, legit size in multiple positions
Weakness: Finesse players that can be out muscled in the paint, lack of a defensive niche that can be exploited by teams that focus on 1 area.
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: 47.3 rebounds allowed per game (3rd)
Team Overview: Perhaps the most "balanced" team in the league from either sides of the ball, looking at the stats, there isn't a single area that the Celtics excel at, however, there isn't a single area that the Celtics are horrible at either, this versatility can be very frustrating to opponents as they have so many options to score the ball. Defensively speaking, with as many 7 footers as they have, you will rarely out rebound this team, however, since they aren't particularly strong at either blocking the ball, teams that gamble on pounding the ball down low could find success against them.
The Breakdown: This is another odd match up in which neither team has won at home, in a match up between the 4 and 5 seed, all bets are off and anyone's guess is as good as the next persons, but a slight advantage in size and a legitimate threat in the back court could prove to be the difference for the Celtics.
The Prediction: Celtics win 4-3
The West
Utah Jazz (1) vs Memphis Grizzlies (8)
Regular Season Meetings: Jazz wins series 3-1
Utah Jazz
Key Players: Gary Payton (PG), Corey Maggette (SG), Raef LaFrentz (PF)
Strength: rarely turns the ball over, shares the ball well, capable of containing any scorer
Weakness: Depth at the point guard (injury) position, lack of a true go to scorer since trading away their #1 option Eddie Jones (
)Top Offensive Statistics: 26.7 assists per game (4th), 11.5 turnovers per game (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: 5.2 blocks per game (5th)
Team Overview: Before the injury to their starting point guard, this would have been considered without a doubt the best team in the West, but now with Payton likely out for the start of the playoffs, the Jazz must rely on their wings to create scoring opportunities for themselves. Despite this, their scorers are well capable of getting off their own shots and maintain their style of play without too much trouble.
Memphis Grizzlies
Key Players: Alonzo Mourning (C), Glenn Robinson (SF), Latrell Sprewell (SG)
Strength: Protects the rim well, Veteran leadership in multiple positions, capable shooters that can space the floor well.
Weakness: Doesn't get to the foul line often, significant drop off in scoring capabilities in the 2nd unit
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: 6.3 blocks per game (2nd)
Team Overview: The playoffs often come down to scoring in the paint and protecting the paint and the Grizzlies can do both extremely well, with the league leader in blocks Mourning patrolling the paint, scoring opportunities around the rim will be scarce, one area of concern is the depth of this team as the 2nd unit simply cannot function without relying on 1 starter on the floor with them. This could be cause for concern when not a single backup is capable of scoring more than 9 points per game.
The Breakdown: The difference in this series could simply come down to the unfortunate injury to Gary Payton as there is no one on the Jazz roster is capable of matching up with John Stockton on top of their already glaring mismatch of having no one to guard Alonzo Mourning.
The Prediction: Grizzlies win 4-2
Los Angeles Lakers (2) vs Los Angeles Clippers (7)
Regular Season meetings: Lakers lead 3-0 (1 game remaining)
Los Angeles Lakers
Key Players: Jason Kidd (PG), Eddie House (SG), Tim Thomas (SF)
Strength: Stellar point guard play, solid defense around the paint
Weakness: Lack of a true #2 option, has to rely too much on the point guard to make plays, mediocre scoring in the paint
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: 8.8 steals per game (5th)
Team overview: This is a team that lives and dies by their star player, as the record setter for almost every single offensive category, without a big game from Jason Kidd, this team will not win many playoff games. With their low post scoring, or lack of, the Lakers will depend on the best point guard in the league for each and every single game.
Los Angeles Clippers
Key Players: Baron Davis (PG), Marcus Camby (C), Clifford Robinson (SF)
Strength: multiple shooters that can shoot from beyond the 3 point line, Good interior defense and rebounding
Weakness: Lack of a true offensive threat
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: The Clippers are what you would call, an average team and their record of .500 shows that. While their 3 point shooters are certainly capable of going on hot shooting streaks to put up huge numbers, there just isn't enough fire power on this team to make a deep playoff run.
The Breakdown: In this match up for supremacy in the city of angels, the series could simply come down to point guard play. Neither team has too much scoring outside of their ball handler and neither team is a lock down defensive team. While it is true that Baron Davis is one of the budding young stars at his position, the problem for him is that he is playing against the best PG in league, in every one of their prior meetings, Jason Kidd has outplayed Baron Davis, look for the trend to continue in the playoffs as the Lakers reign supreme in LA.
The Prediction: Lakers win 4-1
Houston Rockets (3) vs Portland Trailblazers (6)
Regular Season meetings: Trailblazers lead 2-1 (1 game remaining)
Houston Rockets
Key Players: Vince Carter (SG), Zydrunas Ilgauskas (C), Kurt Thomas (PF)
Strength: rarely turns the ball over, rebounds the ball well, solid perimeter defense
Weakness: cannot take advantage of their many trips to the foul line, lack of a quality 2nd option on offense
Top Offensive Statistics: 12.1 turnovers per game (2nd)
Top Defensive Statistics: 52.9 rebounds per game (2nd), 44.3% field goal defense (5th)
Team Overview: For the most part of the season, this was considered the 2nd best team in the West behind the Jazz, with the recent injury problems in Utah, the Rockets have now firmly solidified their position as the #1 team in the West. For them to make a deep run into the playoffs and even possibly making it to the Finals, their leading scorer Vince Carter will have to do some extra heavy lifting and put his team on his back
Portland Trailblazers
Key Players: Andre Miller (PG), Richard Hamilton (SG), Joe Smith (PF)
Strength: Solid production in the back court, lengthy in the front court
Weakness: lack of scoring presence in the paint, point guard prone to turnover problems
Top Offensive Statistics: none
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a fairly young team, and like any young team, their starters lack the necessary experience to make a deep playoff run, while Eddy Curry is a star center in the making, he is still rather raw and needs a few more years to refine his game before the Blazers can have enough of an inside presence to command respect from other teams.
The Breakdown: another series in which the home team has yet to win one, the Rockets ultimate goal will be the Finals while the Blazers are just happy to be there for the most part, in a playoff series, points in the paint and star players make the difference, and the difference between them are significant.
The Prediction: Rockets win 4-2
Dallas Mavericks (4) vs Golden State Warriors (5)
Regular Season meeting: Warriors lead 2-1 (1 game remaining)
Dallas Mavericks
Key Players: Tim Duncan (C), Ray Allen (SG), Mookie Blaylock (PG)
Strength: Solid inside outside scoring, good assist to turnover ratio, solid interior defense.
Weakness: lack of a lock down perimeter defender, no viable 3rd scoring option
Top Offensive Statistics: 12.5 turnovers per game (tied 3rd)
Top Defensive Statistics: 14.5 turnovers per game from opponents (2nd)
Team Overview: A team that sacrificed the future for the present, even though they are left without a 1st round pick for the next 2 years, the rewards have proven to be somewhat worth the gamble. With a potent one-two punch in Duncan and Allen, teams cannot focus too much on stopping the inside OR the outside game. Although they are solid defensively in the paint, the Mavericks have shown a tendency to allow huge scoring games from perimeter players, and come playoff time, it could mean the difference between advancing or going home.
Golden State Warriors
Key Players: Allen Houston (SG), Dikembe Mutombo (C), Steve Nash (PG)
Strength: Terrific defense and rebounding, solid perimeter scoring, converts their foul line trips into points often
Weakness: turns the ball over too many times
Top Offensive Statistics: 75.8% free throw percentage (2nd), 5.6 3-pointers per game (4th), 40.7% 3-point percentage (1st)
Top Defensive Statistics: none
Team Overview: This is a team that can space the floor extremely well, a classic case of outside inside game, teams are forced to send help around the perimeter which the Warriors can take advantage of and lead pass into the lane for easy buckets around the rim, despite hurling up so many long range jumpers, the Warriors don't give up as many points as their play style would suggest thanks in large part to the league rebounding leader Dikembe Mutombo whose efforts will be even more heavily leaned on for their post season run.
The Breakdown: Another 4 5 match up and another coin toss, however, the play style of the Warriors matches up extremely well with the Mavs as the outside shooting game of the Warriors seem to cause match up problems every time these teams meet up, if Dallas cannot contain the perimeter game of the Warriors, look for Golden State to advance.
The Prediction: Warriors win 4-2
Round 2 and later to come tomorrow....round 1 took 6 hours, I shit you not, later rounds should come faster. Please do not rate (unless you feel like giving me a 5) until I finish.
