<div align="center"> Date: Saturday, December 25th Time: 12:00 PM (Los Angeles), 3:00 PM (Miami) TV: ABC Radio: KLAC-AM 570, KWKW-AM 1330 <font color="red">Coach Stan Van Gundy</font> C - <font color="Red">Shaquille O'Neal</font> (21.0 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 3.1 APG) PF - <font color="Red">Udonis Haslem</font> (11.4 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.5 APG) SF - <font color="Red">Eddie Jones</font> (11.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.7 APG) SG - <font color="Red">Dwyane Wade</font> (23.3 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 7.3 APG) PG - <font color="Red">Damon Jones</font> (11.7 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 3.7 APG) <font size="4">VS</font> <font color="purple">Coach Rudy Tomjanovich</font> C - <font color="Purple">Chris Mihm</font> (11.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 0.4 APG) PF - <font color="Purple">Lamar Odom</font> (14.3 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.6 APG) SF - <font color="Purple">Jumaine Jones</font> (6.1 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 0.7 APG) SG - <font color="Purple">Kobe Bryant</font> (27.1 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 7.2 APG) PG - <font color="Purple">Chucky Atkins</font> (11.4 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 3.6 APG) HEAT - <font color="Red">Rasual Butler</font> Predicted Stats: 9 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists LAKERS - <font color="Purple">Brian Grant</font> Predicted Stats: 8 points, 5 rebounds, 0 assists HEAT - <font color="Red">Shaquille O'Neal</font> Predicted Stats: 34 points, 17 rebounds, 3 blocks LAKERS - <font color="purple">Kobe Bryant</font> Predicted Stats: 36 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists</div> [IMGr]http://img15.exs.cx/img15/7809/64-KobePistons.jpg[/IMGr]What a game this will be. Shaq makes his return to STAPLES since Game 2 of the NBA Finals, a Lakers/Pistons series that ended in disappointment and later assisted in the breakup of one of basketball's greatest dynasties...but this time, he's packing a Miami Heat team that's looking to tear into the Eastern Conference, in hopes to bring the city of Miami a championship this season. Alongside Shaq will be Dwyane Wade, a second year star out of Marquette that has done nothing less than surprise his critics all season long. What's all the fuss about? O'Neal meets head-to-head with Kobe Bryant, former teammate and the other half of one of the greatest duos to ever play the game. Bryant's gift to Shaq will be a revamped Laker squad, including Lamar Odom...and of course, eyeing Shaq from the bench...Shaq's favorite enemy, Vlade Divac. So, since we're in the Christmas spirit, what is more important: giving or receiving? This is the question that will be on Kobe's mind for 48 minutes. The decision on whether or not he should distribute the ball as much as usual will play a huge factor in the Lakers' success against the Heat. Although Atkins runs the point, it's becoming clear that Kobe is the playmaker...whether he likes it or not. Should he concentrate on buckets, or assists? Let's apply this question to Dwyane Wade, who was actually running the point in Miami before Damon Jones came into the picture. Wade has been able to score at will this season, even with the Diesel on the bench, but will it be a wise idea to rack up points himself, or take advantage of the Lakers' weak frontcourt and abuse the paint with O'Neal? What is Christmas Day without your family? Shaq has help from not only Wade, but from a former Laker, Eddie Jones, who may gladly deliver jumpers to everyone's delight (or dismay) in favor of Miami. Jones could have trouble guarding Bryant or Jumaine Jones, and may see limited minutes if Kobe's stats go off the charts before halftime. Let's not forget Udonis Haslem and Damon Jones, both improving since last year and looking to prove themselves in this statement game for the Heat. Haslem's rebounding abilities will more than likely hurt the Lakers, while Damon may give Atkins and Tierre trouble at the point. Rasual Butler will come off the bench to go head-on with Jumaine Jones...which will be interesting to see a shooter against a slasher. Jumaine's defense may be a big help in this game, as long as he can hold Rasual under 40% shooting. Aside from Jumaine, Kobe will be sure to introduce Shaq to Chris Mihm, Bryant's new partner in crime...and the Lakers' new inforcer down low. So far, Mihm has been performing better than previous years, yet is having a little trouble pulling down boards. Hopefully, this will be fixed by Christmas Day, especially since Shaq will be his company in the paint. Off the bench, Shaq will be glad to see Brian Cook and Luke Walton, who are two of the returning Lakers from last season. Walton may be on the court more than he has been all year, since passing will be an important aspect of this game for the Lakers...while Cook's shooting will provide Los Angeles with stability and flexibility in their offense. Okay, enough of that. Now to the big picture...and I mean huge. Although it's technically not one, the biggest matchup will be...drumroll...Kobe and Shaq. And to think, we'll only see this three times this year (the other times being on St. Patricks Day and in the All-Star game). [IMGl]http://img15.exs.cx/img15/3976/35-KobeShaq.jpg[/IMGl]Everyone knows the story...the statements, rap lyrics, accusations, finger-pointing, media exploitations, etc...but the only guaranteed fact that can come out of all of it: Kobe and Shaq despise each other. Shaq leaves Los Angeles, Kobe signs his name on the dotted line...and everything that ever resembled a real partnership is crushed and left as a memory. Change the scenery, a few settings, and one costume...and you have a new story; Shaq in the East, Kobe in the West. Whether or not Shaq and Kobe want to win, or just show for a 50-point performance...it will all be clear once the game begins. If that's not enough, both want to make a statement in this game. Shaq and the Heat fans would love to see Kobe on his back after a series of blocks by the big man, while Kobe and the Laker fans want Shaq's mug on a poster...preferably no higher than Kobe's waist. Is it personal? You can bet your red and white candy canes it is. The sixth men in this game will more than likely have to shine in this game. Offensively, for the Heat, this man will be Rasual Butler. Jumaine will need to step it up defensively and keep an eye out for Rasual, who can easily slip through a few defenders and free himself up for a three. For Los Angeles, Grant will be the man off the bench. Although Grant may not be in perfect condition, he can cause damage under the rim by grabbing defensive rebounds. Also, if Grant draws early fouls against Shaq in the second quarter, and again late in the third, Shaq may be sitting out sooner than planned. If this happens, the game will turn into Kobe vs. Wade, and the Lakers will more than likely either pull away with the lead, or cover the spread with Shaq on the bench. Either way, the bench will play an important factor in this Christmas battle. [IMGl]http://img87.exs.cx/img87/1379/i7rsoneal.jpg[/IMGl]And now, your game MVPs. First for the Heat...you guessed it: Shaquille O'Neal...and why not? The Heat's efforts in stopping an amped Kobe Bryant will fall into the hands of Shaq. Kobe's defensive matchup does take the responsibility, but it's O'Neal who Van Gundy wants to keep Kobe from driving the lane. If there's one guard who will be more than happy to drive the lane against a 7'1", 325-pound beast such as Shaq, it's Kobe Bryant...but take caution, because Shaq has been "swat-happy" this season, and shouldn't physically feel intimidated by anyone on the court come Christmas Day. Offensively, Shaq's visions should include abusing Mihm, Grant, and anyone else who stands in his way, using his size and his added agility. If he continues to gain position in the game, Wade and Co. will feed him alley-oops and quick passes all day long, which could spell trouble for Rudy Tomjanovich and his Lakers. With Shaq pulling boards and scoring early in the game, he could be one huge tree to chop down for Los Angeles. I suggest calling Chevy Chase and the Griswold family. [IMGl]http://img87.exs.cx/img87/6836/t0ukbryant.jpg[/IMGl]Before looking at the picture (sigh), take a guess as to who the Lakers' MVP will be? Haha...you looked; Kobe Bryant. Since the beginning of the season, Kobe has been the offense, defense, veteran, point guard, shooting guard...well, you get the gist of it...pretty much everything for this organization. Although he's started this year with a terrible display of shooting (compared to what his usual percentage is), Bryant has excelled in other statistics, such as rebounding and, to everyone's surprise, assists. Whether or not the Lakers make the playoffs, Kobe's season has been tough...especially since he's the only returning starter of a team that has a brand new coach, a new offense, and nearly a new depth chart. For the Lakers to even begin to think about a win, Kobe is going to have to come out shooting well early, unlike other performances, as well as passing the ball effectively and avoiding turnovers...one problem that eats away at Kobe's reputation as a great player. In fact, don't be surprised if Rudy Tomjanovich allows Kobe to bring the ball upcourt on a lot of plays, especially late in the game. Bryant's keys to personal success (which should be the second thing on his mind, next to a win) will be to get everyone involved, offensively and defensively, and to shut down Dwyane Wade...whether Wade is running the point or the two. Kobe needs to watch the passing lanes carefully and intercept all incoming passes to O'Neal, attempting to somewhat re-apply the Pistons' strategy from last year's Finals into this game. Shut down Wade, and stop the passes between him and Shaq...sounds simple, but still a tough task ahead for this young team. If Kobe comes out smiling with a Laker victory, this will be a great confidence boost for both him and his team...no doubt about it. [IMGl]http://img87.exs.cx/img87/9533/b2kdwade.jpg[/IMGl]The Heat are going to have to shoot well in order to win against Los Angeles. Eddie Jones has been inconsistent this year...having decent games, but then having terrible ones...and this is when he's wide open. If Kobe wanders away from Eddie, the Heat have to trust him to hit his shot. Otherwise, you'll see Rasual Butler in, and Eddie Jones warming the bench. Also, good contributions from both Christian Laettner and Wesley Person will be greatly appreciated by Stan Van Gundy...and by contributions, I mean on both sides of the ball. Person is a streaky shooter...if he catches fire, the Lakers will be forced to change their strategy and play different zone variations to keep up with the shooters, all while keeping an eye out for Shaq. In addition to shooting well, the Heat will have to avoid fouls, and hit their free throws as well. If Shaq and Wade get in foul trouble early, the Heat will definitely lose this game. They need both on the floor for more than 35 minutes...because without Shaq, Kobe will penetrate and leave the ball on a silver platter for Mihm every time. Without Wade, the Heat lose their spark. Bringing up fouls, it's only necessary to talk about the foul shooting...something that has to be working from the start of the game. If Shaq can't hit his free throws early, he may want to try late in the game, just in case Los Angeles resorts to the Hack-A-Shaq method. [IMGl]http://img87.exs.cx/img87/204/a9rodom.jpg[/IMGl]There are three things the Lakers must focus on to walk out of STAPLES with the victory: less turnovers, defensive stops, and offensive rebounding. Passing is a key to this game, but please...at least...avoid the turnovers, and I'm directing this to Kobe Bryant, as well as the rest of the team. Catch passes, don't bobble them, and make accurate chest and bounce passes. One thing I'd like to point out is both Kobe and Tierre, and their habits of passing while in the air...a big no-no. It's a terrible method, so don't use it. Also, in a double-team situation, help is definitely needed...so when receiving a pass, the Lakers need to step towards it instead of looking for the lob or a cross-court bounce pass. Also, keeping the lead (with defensive stops) will be important to Kobe and the Lakers. Obviously, we cannot hang onto leads going into the third and fourth quarters. I'm not quite sure if it's Rudy's fault for the bad rotation, or our own players' fault for...well...playing bad in the second half, but it's not working. Our defense needs to kick it up a notch so we don't have to worry about catching up with two minutes on the clock. As for the rebounding woes, Los Angeles needs to concentrate on offensive rebounding...both grabbing them and not allowing them. I guess it's simple to just say, "Sure, just grab boards all game." However, the Heat are going to be crashing the boards constantly, especially when Jones and Butler are shooting jumpers and threes. If Shaq and Haslem are getting second chances, we're going to lose this one. Odom and Mihm have no reason to miss the ball coming off the glass; as long as they box out, the Heat risk the chance of an over-the-back call every time. Mihm can get position faster than Shaq, but can he keep it? The Lakers better hope so. The Lakers come out firing, but miss shots early...while Shaq drops 10 as the Heat lead after one, 22-18. In the second quarter, the atmosphere changes and things begin to heat up between Kobe and Shaq. Before the half, the crowd will get to see a huge block from Shaq...on Kobe Bryant...and the Heat go into the locker room with the lead, 48-45. Shaq leads the Heat in scoring with 15 points, but with 3 fouls after sitting for half of the second. For the Lakers, Lamar Odom has 10 points and 7 boards, but Kobe leads all scorers with 16 points on 5-14 shooting, 5 assists and 4 rebounds. The second half plays out much different, with Shaq picking up his fourth foul within the first three minutes from a charge. With Shaq sitting, Mihm pulls down 5 boards in the 3rd quarter and Kobe puts in 8 points as the Lakers close in on the lead, 75-74. Entering the fourth and final quarter, Van Gundy sends the troops to double team Kobe Bryant, who has hit his last 4 shots. Kobe begins to pass out of the double team, and the Lakers keep the game close up until the final minutes of the game. With Mihm fouling out, the Lakers run the final two with Grant. Kobe finds room, drives the baseline and throws down a dunk over Shaq...peddaling backwards and waving his finger in his direction. Quick cuts and passes from Kobe and Atkins puts the game into a clutch situation: the Lakers find themselves down by one, with 11 seconds left. Bryant brings the ball upcourt and is met by Wade at the perimeter. Damon on Atkins, Shaq with Divac, and Haslem keeping an eye out for Odom...but forgets about Brian Cook, who's waiting in the corner. Kobe is forced to his left, gets caught in the air and makes a strong, overhead pass to Cook for an 18-foot jumper to seal the game for the Lakers, 97-96. Shaq has the better performance, but Kobe comes away with a victory at home. Wade ends up with 18 points, on 6-17 shooting, with 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Odom finds his rhythm in the game and racks up a nice statline: 15 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. For Kobe and Shaq, there's much more to the game than just stats, but for the fans...this game was the perfect Christmas gift; signed, sealed and delivered by Mr. Claus himself, David Stern. <div align="center"></div>
<font color="red">Now, just a warning...if there are any personal attacks, baiting, or unnecessary comments/ridiculous posts, it'll be deleted. If it continues, I'll report it to an admin. This thread can get out of hand very quickly, but I'm responsible for it, so I'll be quick to do what's necessary to keep it from getting out of control. Hope you guys like the preview. I did my best to keep it unbiased and logical. Enjoy! -Brandon</font>
hey realdealbneal love the preview, but I think you should have waited a little while longer since the game is a couple weeks away a couple injuries could happen before the game to key players that may change a lot of things. Either way I see Kobe having the better game since the Heat do not give Shaq the ball as much as they should, but I see the Heat winning.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Pure Skillz:</div><div class="quote_post">hey realdealbneal love the preview, but I think you should have waited a little while longer since the game is a couple weeks away a couple injuries could happen before the game to key players that may change a lot of things. Either way I see Kobe having the better game since the Heat do not give Shaq the ball as much as they should, but I see the Heat winning.</div> Well, I just thought I'd get everyone's attention with it. I can always edit the preview if someone gets injured (I SERIOUSLY HOPE it's not Shaq or Kobe).
I do not see L.A. winning this if they are playing then how they are now. Odom has been garbage for us so far, there I will say it. When you are traded for Shaq, you need to produce. He isnt producing like he was last year. Shaq will come in looking to make a statement game and he will. He is going for 30+ in this game, he is going to DESTROY Mihm and Vlade. Wade will put in his 20-25. I think L.A. is going to lose, I dont want them to, but I dont see any way we can win this unless Odom averages 18 points from now until the game. Caron Butler has been bigger than Odom IMO, Kobe will get his in this game. Should be a great game though, Happy Holidays. I take the Heat 101-95
I'll be rooting for the Lakers, because the coach is Rudy T, but right now I have to say that Miami will probably win. Maybe I'll change my mind in a few weeks.
Wow nice preview the best i have ever seen on this Forum good work. Now for the game haha. I dont know whats going to happen and i mnot going to make a prediction but i do know one thing. This game is going to be sick. Happy Holidays! every one!!
I don't think Laker or Heat fans are going to bet against their team in this one. Of course Laker fans will say Lakers win, and Heat fans will say Heat win. Shaq will have a monster performance with 35 Points, 19 Rebounds and 3 Blocks, and the Heat will win by 7.
If the Heat win, it will be no more then 3. If the Lakers win, it will be no more then 3 either. This game will NOT be a blowout and it will definetly live up to the hype. I really don't think Kobe's determination is gonna let Shaq and the Heat just takeover this game when he knows it's all eyes on him. Same could be said for Shaq as well but hey, it's in LA so I guess that's extra fuel to Kobe's fire. Both players want to show each other up. I expect Shaq to knock and even block Kobe a couple of time. I do not realistically expect Kobe to throw it down over Shaq. He will try but I believe that And-1 plays or shots over Shaq are more realistic then falt out throw down over Shaq. I can't wait for this game. My projected stats: Shaq: 38 points, 17 boards, 5 blocks Kobe: 41 points, 4 assists, 8 rebounds Kobe will start off the game the right way, dishing and driving but will eventually get a little bit too caught up on it and start jacking up shots. But I know Kobe will not let his team just roll over in a game as crucial as this so I will hold my prediction. Though it looks like Shaq and Kobe will run everything (which they will), let's not forget about Odom and Wade, those 2 will be the KEY factors in this game, because we all know Shaq and Kobe are getting the most touches in this game. I'll hold my prediction on the game until the week of the game.
That's a tight preview. Hope the Lakers come out on top but I don't really know. But I like spawns stat prediction of Kobe and Shaq. I liked to see them both having big games. Want a entertaining X-Mas game fershizzle.
This game should be one of the best games this season. im gonna say lakers win 105-99. Kobes blocking skills have improved this year and im hoping not only for him to dunk on shaq (like that sick dunk he did on dwight howard) but for him to block him to.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Zane:</div><div class="quote_post">This game should be one of the best games this season. im gonna say lakers win 105-99. Kobes blocking skills have improved this year and im hoping not only for him to dunk on shaq (like that sick dunk he did on dwight howard) but for him to block him to.</div> Sorry Heat fans...but Zane has me thinking...and really, I'd give my arm or leg for Kobe to dunk on Shaq AND block a couple of his shots, face up (not blindsided). :beerchug: It would be nice, but I know the second part is impossible...wait...I mean, unlikely.
After yesterdays loss to Denver our team beating the Heat is very possible. Hope we get a W as a present for Xmas.
This is a seriously heated competition; no pun intended. It'll mostly come down I feel to who wants it most; because by comparison they both have quite good backup for their stars. Shaq and Wade aided by the scoring ability of Butler, Jones and the presence brought by Haslem. They also have many great scorers and workhorses down on the bench. Laettner and Person. There are others but they seem to come to my mind as they were quite good back in the day. An additional x-factor may be between the Butler's they had arguments whilst they were teammates; maybe this will be the same. Also Eddie use to be a Laker; although that was a long time ago that was when he was at his best. 'Cuz of Kobe and Shaq I might add. He still has Shaq so that may be a questionable point I raised. I just think it'll be real entertaining to simply see Wade go up against the formidable Lakeshow with his soldiers. Its gonna be a hell of a battle and I can't wait to see it; definitely one of the better things to see on TV for a longtime coming. I see it going either way by 7 points at most near the end of a heated conflict; meaning quick and rushed baskets fighting for victory in the 4th quarter.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Rave:</div><div class="quote_post">This is a seriously heated competition; no pun intended. It'll mostly come down I feel to who wants it most; because by comparison they both have quite good backup for their stars. Shaq and Wade aided by the scoring ability of Butler, Jones and the presence brought by Haslem. They also have many great scorers and workhorses down on the bench. Laettner and Person. There are others but they seem to come to my mind as they were quite good back in the day. An additional x-factor may be between the Butler's they had arguments whilst they were teammates; maybe this will be the same. Also Eddie use to be a Laker; although that was a long time ago that was when he was at his best. 'Cuz of Kobe and Shaq I might add. He still has Shaq so that may be a questionable point I raised. I just think it'll be real entertaining to simply see Wade go up against the formidable Lakeshow with his soldiers. Its gonna be a hell of a battle and I can't wait to see it; definitely one of the better things to see on TV for a longtime coming. I see it going either way by 7 points at most near the end of a heated conflict; meaning quick and rushed baskets fighting for victory in the 4th quarter.</div> Rave, you're already one of my favorite Heat fans. Good, full posts in this forum so far...none have been baiting or personal attacks, no team bashing...I'm impressed. EDIT: And I just realized you've been here since last December.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting realdealbneal:</div><div class="quote_post">Sorry Heat fans...but Zane has me thinking...and really, I'd give my arm or leg for Kobe to dunk on Shaq AND block a couple of his shots, face up (not blindsided). :beerchug: It would be nice, but I know the second part is impossible...wait...I mean, unlikely. </div> Why is it unlikely? Carlos Boozer blocked Shaq last night in the Utah Jazz' dissapointing blowout lost to the Heat. Shaq gets blocked plenty enough. Edit: I'ma wait before I make any predictions.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Cody 7k:</div><div class="quote_post">Why is it unlikely? Gooden blocked Shaq last night in the Utah Jazz' dissapointing blowout lost to the Heat. Shaq gets blocked plenty enough.</div> You mean Boozer? And it's unlikely because that's Mihm's job, to defend Shaq. If Kobe gets a block, it'll be from behind.
^Yeah I meant Boozer. I always confuse 'em, no idea why. It doesn't have to be from behind. What about fighting for rebounds? (We all know Kobe has been a more aggressive rebounder this year) I wouldn't be surprised to see Shaq beat Kobe to a few rebounds and end up shooting over him, rather than Mihm.
