The Big East Baseball Tournament was this past weekend in Florida, and there was a lot of rain, so the players had some time to kill and
This dance competition happened.
God bless college student-athletes for their good-naturedness.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sundry
A great many things have happened in the past couple of weeks, so I've decided to touch on each of the following briefly. We'll start by continuing in the NBA playoffs:
What a shot from LeBron James. Facing an improbable 0-2 hole after losing just twice in Cleveland all season (once if you discount the finale in which James was in street clothes), James made the spectacular three that could be the impetus for a championship run. Had they gone to Orlando down 0-2, I wouldn't by any means count the Cavaliers out. But with Orlando letting a 2-0 record in Cleveland slip away, I may just count out the Magic. Hats off to you, Bernie Blozar.
However, Kobe Bryant has shown that he may be the NBA's best shooter. The Lakers look to be in top form with Pau Gasol and Trevor Ariza stepping up to bat behind Bryant. The Nuggets played poorly down the stretch at home in game three. They'll need more consistent, smarter, and generally less stupid play from J.R. Smith to even back up the series.
In the NHL, Pittsburgh is making minced meat of the Carolina Hurricanes. Sidney Crosby and especially Evgeni Malkin look unstoppable. After the thrilling series against Washington - capped by a thorough game seven beatdown - Pittsburgh hasn't at all slowed down against a Carolina team who won their own road game seven against the top-seeded Boston Bruins.
Meanwhile, the Blackhawks gutted out an OT victory after Cristobal Huet relieved starter Nikolai Khabibulin to claw back into their series with Cup holders Detroit. Sorry The Doob, but perhaps the Caps should have tried harder to retain Huet so they didn't go into that game seven with tenderfoot Ernie Varlamov and your boy Jose as their options between the pipes.
Filly Rachel Alexandra galloped to the Preakness crown ahead of Kentucky Derby champ Mine That Bird. Still no Triple Crown winner since 1978, though jockey Calvin Borel has set himself up for a possible personal treble. With me selecting Musket Man to win (who finished a respectable third), I have still never picked a winning horse.
(On that note, I'll be in Vegas shortly and am willing to place bets for any BD bloggers for a small rake.)
Manny Pacquiao obliterated Briton Ricky Hatton, again proving to be boxing's best. After he won me some money as the underdog against Oscar de la Hoya, I put my bet on Pacman to win by decision against The Hitman. No payday was to come when Pacquiao felled Hatton twice in the first and once in the second and final round. I think Money May should stay retired. But he is a retired boxer with the nickname "Money," so look for a Pacquiao-Mayweather bout in the future.
Nearly two months have passed in the baseball season, and, after a rocky start, the Yankees have put it together to be fighting at the top of their division with Boston and Toronto (behind Roy Halladay's golden Denver arm). As long as those three teams stay at the top, that means the Devil Rays aren't. For that I would be thankful.
The Florida Marlins began the season at 11-1, but followed that up with a seven game losing streak. On top of that, they've won just eight games since. I predict the Mets will lead that division when September hits and then, as is customary, concede to Philadelphia in the final two weeks. And yes, the Washington Oats are indeed the worst team in baseball.
In other news, Manny Ramirez takes female fertility drugs and the Rockies are in last place.
In Europe's top three soccer leagues, global recession-proof Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Barcelona have given a bit of credence to the idea that money can buy championships. On the contrary, Juventus failed miserably in their attempt a few years back.
Apparently the WNBA season is just around the corner. At least that's what the advertisements in NBA playoff arenas tell me. And here I thought the league folded. Who wants to place a bet on when that actually happens?
10:1 within two years
What a shot from LeBron James. Facing an improbable 0-2 hole after losing just twice in Cleveland all season (once if you discount the finale in which James was in street clothes), James made the spectacular three that could be the impetus for a championship run. Had they gone to Orlando down 0-2, I wouldn't by any means count the Cavaliers out. But with Orlando letting a 2-0 record in Cleveland slip away, I may just count out the Magic. Hats off to you, Bernie Blozar.
However, Kobe Bryant has shown that he may be the NBA's best shooter. The Lakers look to be in top form with Pau Gasol and Trevor Ariza stepping up to bat behind Bryant. The Nuggets played poorly down the stretch at home in game three. They'll need more consistent, smarter, and generally less stupid play from J.R. Smith to even back up the series.
In the NHL, Pittsburgh is making minced meat of the Carolina Hurricanes. Sidney Crosby and especially Evgeni Malkin look unstoppable. After the thrilling series against Washington - capped by a thorough game seven beatdown - Pittsburgh hasn't at all slowed down against a Carolina team who won their own road game seven against the top-seeded Boston Bruins.
Meanwhile, the Blackhawks gutted out an OT victory after Cristobal Huet relieved starter Nikolai Khabibulin to claw back into their series with Cup holders Detroit. Sorry The Doob, but perhaps the Caps should have tried harder to retain Huet so they didn't go into that game seven with tenderfoot Ernie Varlamov and your boy Jose as their options between the pipes.
Filly Rachel Alexandra galloped to the Preakness crown ahead of Kentucky Derby champ Mine That Bird. Still no Triple Crown winner since 1978, though jockey Calvin Borel has set himself up for a possible personal treble. With me selecting Musket Man to win (who finished a respectable third), I have still never picked a winning horse.
(On that note, I'll be in Vegas shortly and am willing to place bets for any BD bloggers for a small rake.)
Manny Pacquiao obliterated Briton Ricky Hatton, again proving to be boxing's best. After he won me some money as the underdog against Oscar de la Hoya, I put my bet on Pacman to win by decision against The Hitman. No payday was to come when Pacquiao felled Hatton twice in the first and once in the second and final round. I think Money May should stay retired. But he is a retired boxer with the nickname "Money," so look for a Pacquiao-Mayweather bout in the future.
Nearly two months have passed in the baseball season, and, after a rocky start, the Yankees have put it together to be fighting at the top of their division with Boston and Toronto (behind Roy Halladay's golden Denver arm). As long as those three teams stay at the top, that means the Devil Rays aren't. For that I would be thankful.
The Florida Marlins began the season at 11-1, but followed that up with a seven game losing streak. On top of that, they've won just eight games since. I predict the Mets will lead that division when September hits and then, as is customary, concede to Philadelphia in the final two weeks. And yes, the Washington Oats are indeed the worst team in baseball.
In other news, Manny Ramirez takes female fertility drugs and the Rockies are in last place.
In Europe's top three soccer leagues, global recession-proof Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Barcelona have given a bit of credence to the idea that money can buy championships. On the contrary, Juventus failed miserably in their attempt a few years back.
Apparently the WNBA season is just around the corner. At least that's what the advertisements in NBA playoff arenas tell me. And here I thought the league folded. Who wants to place a bet on when that actually happens?
10:1 within two years
Sunday, May 3, 2009
NBA round two
Reviewing my picks from the first round, I was spot on with the 1-8 and 2-7 series in each conference: Cleveland over Detroit in four; Boston over Chicago in seven; Los Angeles over Utah in five; Denver over New Orleans in five.
I picked Orlando in five over Philadelphia and it took them six. I said I didn't trust the 76ers, and they held true by not laying down for one of their two wins as I predicted.
I knew the Atlanta-Miami series would go to seven, but I thought Miami would come out on top, even though game seven was to be in Atlanta - the worst sports town in America. But what I didn't see coming was the atrocious basketball these teams played from start to finish. Just one game was within ten points, and each game was a laugher.
Two series made me to look like a fool, with Dallas whipping San Antonio around after I thought the Spurs could eke the series out in seven. This is the official end to the Spurs 'dynasty' from the past decade. Then there was Houston dispensing Portland in six, the exact opposite of what I foresaw.
Overall I'm pleased with my performance, much more so than I was after picking Hold Me Back to win the Kentucky Derby. Finishing 12th after I put $5 on him wasn't too kind. He beat out Dunkirk (11th) and Friesan Fire (18th - the odds-on favorite at post-time) for my ticket.
But on to round two of the NBA playoffs:
Cleveland over Atlanta in four
Boston over Orlando in seven
Los Angeles over Houston in five
Denver over Dallas in six
I picked Orlando in five over Philadelphia and it took them six. I said I didn't trust the 76ers, and they held true by not laying down for one of their two wins as I predicted.
I knew the Atlanta-Miami series would go to seven, but I thought Miami would come out on top, even though game seven was to be in Atlanta - the worst sports town in America. But what I didn't see coming was the atrocious basketball these teams played from start to finish. Just one game was within ten points, and each game was a laugher.
Two series made me to look like a fool, with Dallas whipping San Antonio around after I thought the Spurs could eke the series out in seven. This is the official end to the Spurs 'dynasty' from the past decade. Then there was Houston dispensing Portland in six, the exact opposite of what I foresaw.
Overall I'm pleased with my performance, much more so than I was after picking Hold Me Back to win the Kentucky Derby. Finishing 12th after I put $5 on him wasn't too kind. He beat out Dunkirk (11th) and Friesan Fire (18th - the odds-on favorite at post-time) for my ticket.
But on to round two of the NBA playoffs:
Cleveland over Atlanta in four
Boston over Orlando in seven
Los Angeles over Houston in five
Denver over Dallas in six
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
NFL Draft Thoughts
Duve wanted me to provide a mock draft. I'll run through the top 12 (I was going to stop at 11, but I figured Duve would get pissed). There are too many crazy trade scenarios out there. I'll give you things to watch for at each spot.
1. Detroit — The Lions are taking Matthew Stafford. I don't know if this is the right pick, but they've been working on the contract for a couple of days and it doesn't look like the negotiations will break down. When Peter King says he will be a Detroit Lion, I believe him.
2. St. Louis - The consensus is Jason Smith, the offensive tackle from Baylor. The Rams need offensive line help and he's rumored to be their choice for awhile.
3. Kansas City - All of a sudden, this is where the draft gets interesting. They were supposedly taking Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest) for the past month, but now it's coming out they might take Tyson Jackson (DL, LSU). If the Chiefs take Curry, the draft holds to form. If the Chiefs take Jackson, everyone gets knocked down a slot.
4. Seattle - More intrigue at this spot. They could go with Mark Sanchez for the QB of the future with Hasselbeck on his way down. They could go with Crabtree to continue rebuilding the wide receiver corps. They could trade out to someone who really wants Sanchez (Denver, Washington, Jets). If Curry drops, they could take him.
5. Cleveland - I'm just ignoring all the rumors currently because I honestly don't know if I could handle the Browns trading Brady Quinn right now (another column for another day). If they trade Braylon Edwards, they should draft Crabtree if he's still on the board, because the top receiver (with Donte Stallworth earmarked for jail time) right now is Sydric Steptoe (exactly). For the entire 2008 season, I said the Browns need to draft defense and that's what they should do. If Curry is on the board, the Browns need to jump on him. If he's not, then B.J. Raji (DT, Boston College) would be a very good pick. They could also go with Brian Orakpo (DE/OLB, Texas) or Tyson Jackson and I wouldn't be disappointed. If the Browns trade Quinn and draft Sanchez, I will never support Eric Mangini/George Kokinis.
6. Cincinnati - Needs to draft a lineman. If Eugene Monroe (OT, Virginia) falls, the Bengals have their choice of Monroe or Andre Smith (OT, Alabama). I would take Monroe, just because of this video. Could also draft Raji as they need help on both lines.
7. Oakland - Apparently the Raiders are fascinated with speed. Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri) has been the projection but now there's a rumor that Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR, Maryland) might be the selection, which would be a HUGE reach. If they want DHB, trade down.
8. Jacksonville - This is the sexy "trade" spot. The Jaguars are willing suitors and the Redskins are the top team for this spot. The Redskins would come up to get Sanchez. According to the draft chart, that's only a 250-point different from the No. 13 spot for Washington to the No. 8 spot. That's a low 2nd-round pick or like a 3rd and 4th. If the Jaguars stay in this spot, they could take an offensive tackle, especially if Monroe falls.
9. Green Bay - If the Redskins jump up to take Sanchez, Monroe could still be on the board and the Packers would love to get him as an offensive tackle. They could settle for Andre Smith. They also need help on the d-line, so if go there, someone from the group of Orakpo, Raji and Jackson could still be on the board.
10. San Francisco - This is an interesting team that is close to being successful as the NFC West is a terrible decision. Can use an offensive tackle and will probably go there. If the top three are off the board, cult hero Michael Oher would be the next option at OT. Hopefully, Mike Singletary has pants on while in the war room.
11. Buffalo - Finally we get to the Bills. I've had this feeling all week that Orakpo is going to fall to 11, after being projected to go as high as the top 5 earlier in April. Despite all of the money they have thrown toward the defensive line, they need help there. They could also go with Aaron Maybin, who I don't like after he just got manhandled in the Rose Bowl by USC. With the Jason Peters trade, they need an offensive tackle. Kirk Chambers isn't the answer. He couldn't cut it on the Browns' offensive line a few years ago. I don't think they will reach for Oher, but if one of the top three OT falls to them, they could go there. The Bills could also surprise us with a Donte Whitner-type selection from the 2006 draft.
12. Denver - The Broncos are interesting because they have two first-round picks. Todd McShay said he would shave his body if they trade up for Sanchez. There was a concern about their financial side having to pay four first-round picks in the next two years (having two first-round picks in 2010 as well). If they trade up, I have to think it's to go get Sanchez. If they stay here, D-Line seems to be the pick -- Orakpo or maybe Robert Ayers (DE, Tennessee).
You're not allowed to hold these against me as this stuff is really, pure guesswork. I feel more confident in the NCAA Tournament selections.
1. Detroit -- Stafford
2. St. Louis -- Jason Smith
3. Kansas City -- Curry
4. Seattle -- Crabtree
5. Cleveland -- Raji
6. Cincinnati -- Monroe
7. Oakland -- Macliln
8. Jacksonville -- Sanchez (the trade spot)
9. Green Bay -- Tyson Jackson
10. San Francisco -- Andre Smith
11. Buffalo -- Brian Orakpo
12. Denver -- Robert Ayers
1. Detroit — The Lions are taking Matthew Stafford. I don't know if this is the right pick, but they've been working on the contract for a couple of days and it doesn't look like the negotiations will break down. When Peter King says he will be a Detroit Lion, I believe him.
2. St. Louis - The consensus is Jason Smith, the offensive tackle from Baylor. The Rams need offensive line help and he's rumored to be their choice for awhile.
3. Kansas City - All of a sudden, this is where the draft gets interesting. They were supposedly taking Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest) for the past month, but now it's coming out they might take Tyson Jackson (DL, LSU). If the Chiefs take Curry, the draft holds to form. If the Chiefs take Jackson, everyone gets knocked down a slot.
4. Seattle - More intrigue at this spot. They could go with Mark Sanchez for the QB of the future with Hasselbeck on his way down. They could go with Crabtree to continue rebuilding the wide receiver corps. They could trade out to someone who really wants Sanchez (Denver, Washington, Jets). If Curry drops, they could take him.
5. Cleveland - I'm just ignoring all the rumors currently because I honestly don't know if I could handle the Browns trading Brady Quinn right now (another column for another day). If they trade Braylon Edwards, they should draft Crabtree if he's still on the board, because the top receiver (with Donte Stallworth earmarked for jail time) right now is Sydric Steptoe (exactly). For the entire 2008 season, I said the Browns need to draft defense and that's what they should do. If Curry is on the board, the Browns need to jump on him. If he's not, then B.J. Raji (DT, Boston College) would be a very good pick. They could also go with Brian Orakpo (DE/OLB, Texas) or Tyson Jackson and I wouldn't be disappointed. If the Browns trade Quinn and draft Sanchez, I will never support Eric Mangini/George Kokinis.
6. Cincinnati - Needs to draft a lineman. If Eugene Monroe (OT, Virginia) falls, the Bengals have their choice of Monroe or Andre Smith (OT, Alabama). I would take Monroe, just because of this video. Could also draft Raji as they need help on both lines.
7. Oakland - Apparently the Raiders are fascinated with speed. Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri) has been the projection but now there's a rumor that Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR, Maryland) might be the selection, which would be a HUGE reach. If they want DHB, trade down.
8. Jacksonville - This is the sexy "trade" spot. The Jaguars are willing suitors and the Redskins are the top team for this spot. The Redskins would come up to get Sanchez. According to the draft chart, that's only a 250-point different from the No. 13 spot for Washington to the No. 8 spot. That's a low 2nd-round pick or like a 3rd and 4th. If the Jaguars stay in this spot, they could take an offensive tackle, especially if Monroe falls.
9. Green Bay - If the Redskins jump up to take Sanchez, Monroe could still be on the board and the Packers would love to get him as an offensive tackle. They could settle for Andre Smith. They also need help on the d-line, so if go there, someone from the group of Orakpo, Raji and Jackson could still be on the board.
10. San Francisco - This is an interesting team that is close to being successful as the NFC West is a terrible decision. Can use an offensive tackle and will probably go there. If the top three are off the board, cult hero Michael Oher would be the next option at OT. Hopefully, Mike Singletary has pants on while in the war room.
11. Buffalo - Finally we get to the Bills. I've had this feeling all week that Orakpo is going to fall to 11, after being projected to go as high as the top 5 earlier in April. Despite all of the money they have thrown toward the defensive line, they need help there. They could also go with Aaron Maybin, who I don't like after he just got manhandled in the Rose Bowl by USC. With the Jason Peters trade, they need an offensive tackle. Kirk Chambers isn't the answer. He couldn't cut it on the Browns' offensive line a few years ago. I don't think they will reach for Oher, but if one of the top three OT falls to them, they could go there. The Bills could also surprise us with a Donte Whitner-type selection from the 2006 draft.
12. Denver - The Broncos are interesting because they have two first-round picks. Todd McShay said he would shave his body if they trade up for Sanchez. There was a concern about their financial side having to pay four first-round picks in the next two years (having two first-round picks in 2010 as well). If they trade up, I have to think it's to go get Sanchez. If they stay here, D-Line seems to be the pick -- Orakpo or maybe Robert Ayers (DE, Tennessee).
You're not allowed to hold these against me as this stuff is really, pure guesswork. I feel more confident in the NCAA Tournament selections.
1. Detroit -- Stafford
2. St. Louis -- Jason Smith
3. Kansas City -- Curry
4. Seattle -- Crabtree
5. Cleveland -- Raji
6. Cincinnati -- Monroe
7. Oakland -- Macliln
8. Jacksonville -- Sanchez (the trade spot)
9. Green Bay -- Tyson Jackson
10. San Francisco -- Andre Smith
11. Buffalo -- Brian Orakpo
12. Denver -- Robert Ayers
Thursday, April 23, 2009
1-3
Brian Pothier had a great comment about what it takes to win in the playoffs, and this goes back to his days on Ottawa when they would always choke in the playoffs after great regular seasons...you don't score finesse goals in the playoffs. It seemed like the Capitals had it figured out in Game 3 (finally), work hard to get to the net and good things will happen (i.e. 4 goals). All the goals were scored in close in Game 3, yet in Game 4 the shot chart shows 39 shots with many of them coming again from the perimeter or high slot. The Rangers are obviously going to let their three-time Vezina finalist lock down those shots all day and sure enough - only one goal gets scored.
The Caps are a young team with tremendous individual talent. If they had more speed on defense they would have a more consistent breakout and not put as much pressure on the goalie. There's not much confidence in Jose Three-or-more, but Varly's playing well in pressure situations and that bodes well for the next few years.
There's still confidence to come back from a 3-1 deficit, it was done last year against Philly and the Caps know that they can win in NY...however just because it happened last year doesn't mean it will this year (attention Mike Green). Too many shots are still getting blocked, too many shots are being taken from the perimeter and no one is crashing the net for follow up chances. Grit and will is what's going to win game 5, the Rangers right now are showing they have it in loads - Friday night will tell if desperation strengthens the Caps' will and they finally dig deep to scrape together a win in a close game.
The Caps are a young team with tremendous individual talent. If they had more speed on defense they would have a more consistent breakout and not put as much pressure on the goalie. There's not much confidence in Jose Three-or-more, but Varly's playing well in pressure situations and that bodes well for the next few years.
There's still confidence to come back from a 3-1 deficit, it was done last year against Philly and the Caps know that they can win in NY...however just because it happened last year doesn't mean it will this year (attention Mike Green). Too many shots are still getting blocked, too many shots are being taken from the perimeter and no one is crashing the net for follow up chances. Grit and will is what's going to win game 5, the Rangers right now are showing they have it in loads - Friday night will tell if desperation strengthens the Caps' will and they finally dig deep to scrape together a win in a close game.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
NBA Playoffs
There's no stopping Cleveland.
After seeing the Bulls take game one from the Celtics in Boston, the east is Cleveland's to lose. A couple games in, here are my predictions:
Cleavland in four over Detroit
-The Cavaliers will overwhelm the Pistons without Allen Iverson. He hasn't exactly made Detroit better, but he's a player who could be a factor against LeBron James. The Pistons are going to miss Chauncey in the playoffs, and will further rue that trade. Though Cleveland is still a good team without James, he makes his teammates look better than they really are. And that's exactly why LeBron is the difference each and every game in which he plays. That and he's the best player in the league.
Boston in seven over Chicago
-I was going to pick Boston in five until Chicago stormed The Garden and stole game one behind their rookie point guard. Boston looks a lot shakier than I anticipated, but they should survive round one, even without Garnett. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce are a good enough one-two to win the series, but not without some help.
Orlando in five over Philadelphia
-Orlando had a tremendous regular season and are a fun team to watch, with truckloads of outside shooters and the league's best center. But their inexperience could hurt them in the playoffs. That being said, I just don't trust the 76ers.
Miami in seven over Atlanta
-This should be a spectacular series, and I'm picking the Heat in seven because I want the series to go the distance. Dwyane Wade will dominate the series - Miami wins maybe 15 games this season without him.
Los Angeles is the clear favorite in the west, though they're more susceptible to faltering en route to the finals than Cleveland. They'll go as far as Kobe Bryant can carry them - and he can certainly carry them a long way.
Los Angeles in five over Utah
-The Jazz won the season series against the Lakers, but Kobe will rise to the occasion and help them cruise into round two. Pau Gasol and a healthy Andrew Bynum give the Lakers help down low in the physical western conference paint. (Anyone remember what the Lakers gave up to acquire Gasol? Or did they just straight steal him from Memphis? I think I just answered the question.)
Denver in five over New Orleans
-Chris Paul doesn't have nearly enough help to get his team past round one. Carmelo Anthony will step his game up and finally win a playoff series, with Chauncey Billups giving the Nuggets what they've lacked in past playoff failures. A strong supporting cast could help Denver challenge Los Angeles for the west crown.
San Antonio in seven over Dallas
-I could have picked Dallas, but the Spurs are too good this time of year, especially at home. The Mavericks are hot heading to the postseason, but San Antonio's experience and defense will win them the series, even without Emanuel 'Dead Fish' Ginobili.
Portland in six over Houston
-The Trailblazers are an explosive, inexperienced team. They'll be too much for the Rockets, and the tenderfoots will survive to play another round.
I'd love to pick Denver, but the Lakers will beat them and go on to lose to Cleveland in seven. That stellar home mark will pay dividends for the Cavs; I'd take the Lakers to win game seven in LA. LeBron James will bring Cleveland the city's first championship since the Browns in the pre-Super Bowl era. Maybe then he'll be convinced to stay at home and not bolt for the Big Apple to play for the Knicks or the Nets.
After seeing the Bulls take game one from the Celtics in Boston, the east is Cleveland's to lose. A couple games in, here are my predictions:
Cleavland in four over Detroit
-The Cavaliers will overwhelm the Pistons without Allen Iverson. He hasn't exactly made Detroit better, but he's a player who could be a factor against LeBron James. The Pistons are going to miss Chauncey in the playoffs, and will further rue that trade. Though Cleveland is still a good team without James, he makes his teammates look better than they really are. And that's exactly why LeBron is the difference each and every game in which he plays. That and he's the best player in the league.
Boston in seven over Chicago
-I was going to pick Boston in five until Chicago stormed The Garden and stole game one behind their rookie point guard. Boston looks a lot shakier than I anticipated, but they should survive round one, even without Garnett. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce are a good enough one-two to win the series, but not without some help.
Orlando in five over Philadelphia
-Orlando had a tremendous regular season and are a fun team to watch, with truckloads of outside shooters and the league's best center. But their inexperience could hurt them in the playoffs. That being said, I just don't trust the 76ers.
Miami in seven over Atlanta
-This should be a spectacular series, and I'm picking the Heat in seven because I want the series to go the distance. Dwyane Wade will dominate the series - Miami wins maybe 15 games this season without him.
Los Angeles is the clear favorite in the west, though they're more susceptible to faltering en route to the finals than Cleveland. They'll go as far as Kobe Bryant can carry them - and he can certainly carry them a long way.
Los Angeles in five over Utah
-The Jazz won the season series against the Lakers, but Kobe will rise to the occasion and help them cruise into round two. Pau Gasol and a healthy Andrew Bynum give the Lakers help down low in the physical western conference paint. (Anyone remember what the Lakers gave up to acquire Gasol? Or did they just straight steal him from Memphis? I think I just answered the question.)
Denver in five over New Orleans
-Chris Paul doesn't have nearly enough help to get his team past round one. Carmelo Anthony will step his game up and finally win a playoff series, with Chauncey Billups giving the Nuggets what they've lacked in past playoff failures. A strong supporting cast could help Denver challenge Los Angeles for the west crown.
San Antonio in seven over Dallas
-I could have picked Dallas, but the Spurs are too good this time of year, especially at home. The Mavericks are hot heading to the postseason, but San Antonio's experience and defense will win them the series, even without Emanuel 'Dead Fish' Ginobili.
Portland in six over Houston
-The Trailblazers are an explosive, inexperienced team. They'll be too much for the Rockets, and the tenderfoots will survive to play another round.
I'd love to pick Denver, but the Lakers will beat them and go on to lose to Cleveland in seven. That stellar home mark will pay dividends for the Cavs; I'd take the Lakers to win game seven in LA. LeBron James will bring Cleveland the city's first championship since the Browns in the pre-Super Bowl era. Maybe then he'll be convinced to stay at home and not bolt for the Big Apple to play for the Knicks or the Nets.
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