Hoping for Thunder

We're right smack in the middle of the first round of the NBA playoffs and everything appears to be going as expected except for two matches. The Mavs and the Spurs where the Spurs are currently beating the tar out of the Mavs and leading the series 3-1. I can't really say this is unexpected as the Spurs are a tried and tested playoff team with the trio of Duncan, Parker and Ginobli anchoring them. Although they are getting old, the emergence of George Hill and the addition of Jefferson has been enough to keep the team in the playoff race with an outside chance of getting to the finals.

Can't say the same for the Mavs who have a reputation of being soft and playoff chokers. Nowitzki got some support this year with the addition of Marion and Butler. But they just can't seem to get over the hump. Even though they finished 2nd in the regular season, they are in danger of getting eliminated again. I think Mark Cuban is scratching his head trying to figure out what the heck is wrong with this team. He has poured millions of dollars into getting complementary players to no avail. My opinion is that it lies directly with your star player. Some players can kick it up a notch during playoffs and carry their team (Lebron, Kobe). Nowitzki cannot seem to do it.

The other more interesting match-up is between the Lakers and Thunder. The Thunder behind a run and gun hustling game are making the Lakers look old and have currently tied the series at 2-2. Everyone predicted this to be a sweep and although the Lakers are probably still going to win this one. I am secretly hoping for the Thunder upset. Durant has shown his huge potential this season and together with Westbrook, Green, Harden and Ibaka are giving Phil Jackson and Kobe all that they can handle. If they can just continue this energy thru the last 3 games, then they have a good chance of stealing this one in 7 games. Kobe appears to be somewhat bothered by his injuries and the Laker point guards Fisher and Farmar cannot guard the speedy Westbrook. Durant has actually been off his game (guarded by Artest) and the Thunder can still win comfortably. So if he figures this out and gets his groove, the Lakers might find themselves eliminated in the first round.

I know there are a lot of Laker fans here in the Philippines especially Kobe fans. I for one have always rooted for the Lakers since the Magic Johnson days. But you can't help rooting for the young Thunder team who are the underdogs but have shown great resiliency. If they steal this one, I don't think David Stern would be that disappointed. Even though there won't be a Lakers-Celtics or Lakers-Cavs possibility. The idea of a young team with only 20+ wins last season possibly taking it all the way is also a good story line and will be milked for what its worth. Durant vs Lebron doesn't sound so bad. Heheh.