Miami Heat @ LA Lakers Christmas Preview! <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 (by Accord or another mod/admin). This thread can get out of hand very quickly, but I am 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. :thumbsup: Enjoy! -Brandon</font>
I would love to see this game close all the way through. But I have to disagree so far with you guys. I say the Heat will win by a narrow margin, Shaq with the better performence and dominance inside and Kobe slashing to the basket for most of his points. The Lakers won't be able to handle Shaq.
It's early, but by the time Christmas gets here, this thread should be packed with posts. Usually, previews are made the day before the game...some on the same day...so really, there's no time to talk about what COULD happen; just what DID. So, early...maybe...but this game is three weeks away (but seems like forever).
It does indeed. I just wanted to get my prediction in early. This game could change a lot in three weeks. A key player on either team could get injured which could change the whole outcome of this game.
Nice preview. :thumbsup: Just a question, why is this in the general NBA Basketball section? Shouldn't it be in the respective teams' sections? Cause I know not everyone's a Laker/Heat fan..
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting SupraJames:</div><div class="quote_post">Nice preview. :thumbsup: Just a question, why is this in the general NBA Basketball section? Shouldn't it be in the respective teams' sections? Cause I know not everyone's a Laker/Heat fan..</div> I think it's available in all three forums. You figure the Laker and Miami ones will be very biased, so we placed another one in the NBA section to get opinions from fans of neither team.
Thanx for posting this is the Heat forum reldealbneal. I can't wait for this game. I'm not making any predictions becuase a key player on either team could get injured wich could change the whole outcome of the game. Nice preview though. I thought the Mr.Claus David STern was funny by the way.
Nice preview, but like I said in the other forum, I can't see Wade shooting 6-17 from the field, not that he can't have bad games, but he's only had 4 games this season where he's shot under 50% from the field.
Nice work Brendon. I'm rooting with passion for the Heat in this game. However, I predict that Dwyane Wade will be the best player in the game dropping a Triple-Double ( 30 points, 10+ Rbs., 10+ Asts.) On the other hand, I think Lamar Odom will have a trick or two in his sleeve for the Heat for giving him up, dishes a double-double. Kobe dunking over Shaq? .. I don't know about that, although I could see Vlade/Mihm getting absolutly posterized by Dwyane. Heat in a very close game. Hopefully it'll be a nice one, can't wait.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting og15:</div><div class="quote_post">Nice preview, but Wade shooting 6-17, I just can't see that happening.....</div> The reason I think that is because I believe Van Gundy will be disappointed in Eddie Jones, and put Wade at the two. And...everyone says Kobe is overrated as a defender, but look what happened to Michael Redd in both games against the Lakers so far. I think Kobe will definitely hurt Wade's shooting and before Wade can get hot, he'll pick up a few fouls.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting og15:</div><div class="quote_post">Nice preview, but like I said in the other forum, I can't see Wade shooting 6-17 from the field, not that he can't have bad games, but he's only had 4 games this season where he's shot under 50% from the field.</div> The reason I think that is because I believe Van Gundy will be disappointed in Eddie Jones, and put Wade at the two. And...everyone says Kobe is overrated as a defender, but look what happened to Michael Redd in both games against the Lakers so far. I think Kobe will definitely hurt Wade's shooting and before Wade can get hot, he'll pick up a few fouls. (might as well post in each forum, huh?)
Very nice preview. I can see the Lakers taking this one. A good smack in the face from Kobe to Shaq. Merry Christmas big fella! BTW-Don`t the Pacers-Pistons play on X-Mas too?
