How is it I haven’t commented on this incredible series at all? 6 games, 7 overtime periods, only 1 game decided by more than one point – this might be the best basketball series of all time!
Only it isn’t. Because when you get down to it, who cares. Either of these teams will probably lose in Round 2 and will definitely get mauled by the Cavaliers. Without Garnett or Powe the 2009 Celtics aren’t the 2009 Celtics. They are more like the Pierce and Antoine Walker Celtics of 2002. Two great players and some supporting casts.
And Pierce has not been himself. Sports Guy thinks he’s just played too many games and that could certainly be it. The fatigue in a series like this is an enormous factor. Pierce’s last horrible play in Game 6 was obviously the play of someone with no legs left. To pass up that open shot was a mental error. Chasing down Noah would have been the right play if he had been going his normal speed. I think his brain didn’t realize how slow his body was.
Prediction for tonight (which I have to miss for a social engagement and watch tomorrow morning, aarrggghh!): Celtics. The Bulls are younger and recover easier, but with the home court and a lot of Game 7 experience, Boston will pull it out.
I agree it’s unlikely we’ll get past Cavs. I’d bet Celts beat Orlando based purely on experience and home court. But one thing I think you are underestimating is that Rajon Rondo is officially a star player in his own right, although he didn’t play great last night, but he went 90 minutes going 30 assists w/o a single turnover which is Steve Nash/Jason Kidd type performance. He’s the X factor. But as long as Lakers don’t win it (can’t stand Kobe), I’m okay w/Celts not repeating. Go Nuggets!