Today is March 31, 2008 and as I look at the Western Conference playoff race, I'm left with one question. What do we really know about the Western Conference? Sure, there are the Lakers fans that proclaim themselves champs in waiting because Kobe is playing at an MVP level and Bynum and Gasol are scheduled to be back. On the other hand, many have doubted the Suns because of the Shaq trade, but they have started to come together and sit 1.5 games out of the top of the West. What about the Hornets continuing to win as if they are playing with house money and just don't care. Has Houston come back to earth or are they going to get back to their streaking ways? Dallas, Golden State and Denver are set up for a hell of a final few weeks to get the last two playoff spots. Then there is the Jazz fighting injury issues and the Spurs who seem to be peaking at just the right time.
It's really crazy at this point. Most of them have 8 or 9 games left...and so much can happen in that little time frame. One loss could mean the difference between being the first seed and being the sixth seed or being out of the playoffs. All the divisions are still up for grabs. When I look at any of the matchups--even though they are changing almost daily--I can pick who I think might win. But at the same time, I wouldn't be shocked at all by any of the "upsets".
What else is going to make it all really interesting is a lot of the 9 teams still fighting for a spot face eachother down the stretch. There are going to be some pretty huge games coming up.
I think the Rockets may have come down to Earth. They're without 2 key big men, Landry and Yao. They're relying heavily on the perimeter play...and teams are starting to take notice, and defend the perimeter much better. The Hornets, on the other hand, are pretty amazing. They're right up at the top of the rankings, and they prove time and time again that they're a top team, and should not be overlooked at all. Right now, they're my favorites to come out of the West.
I know everybody assumes that the Hornets will come down to earth a little in the later rounds of the playoffs, when experience counts for a lot. But, that roster is just too talented and cohesive IMO. I like their chances to come out of the West. The Spurs are a close second. It's been a damn good race so far.
Today is April 2nd I still believe that either San Antonio or Phoenix is coming out the west. N.O. - lacks experience and a down low post presence Lakers - are banged up and this current roster hasn't sniffed success in the playoffs...usually you have to make steps before leaping into the NBA finals Rockets - No Yao, not a lot of fire power, Tmac doesn't drive enough Mavs - are done with or without Dirk...they haven't beaten a winning team in a long time Nuggets - don't play defense.........at all Warriors - could upset someone in the 1st round, but their lack of size up front will hurt them Jazz - can't win on the road
Today is April 14 and I still don't know much about the Western Conference. Seven of eight playoff teams are set, but seeding is still a jumbled mess.
