After the thrilling comeback win by Boston tonight, I had to say, "This may be the greatest first-round playoff series of all time."
This, I believe, is the fatal flaw of the NBA and, specifically, David Stern. He and the league became so enamored with the cult of personality surrounding Michael Jordan, they forgot that the NBA was brought back from the brink by the Celtics and Lakers, not just Bird and Magic. They forgot that in that game Jordan scored 63 in double-overtime on April 20, 1986, he lost. Yes, Larry Bird did refer to him as God disguised as Michael Jordan, but he still lost. The Celtics won.
Back to tonight's game and this season's series. Neither of these teams is the same as they were for most of this season. Chicago got substantially better after the big trade with Sacramento, and Boston lost perhaps the best defender in the league--certainly the best pick-and-roll defender--in Kevin Garnett. To make matters worse for the champs, they've also lost his backup, Leon Powe. These changes have made the teams so evenly matched, neither can impose their will on the other for more than a quarter or two.
So far, 3 of the 5 games have gone to overtime. Ben Gordon and Rajon Rondo are having coming out parties. The defending champs have been slugging toe-to-toe with rising upstarts. Derek Rose has alternated brilliance and typical rookie jitters on a game-by-game basis. And, oh yeah, the reigning Finals MVP, Paul Pierce, has had moments that remind us why he is The Truth. Throw in some cold-blooded shot making from Ben Gordon and the "which-role-player-will-step-up-tonight" quality of this series and it has become must-see tv.
I can't believe this series isn't getting more coverage. Did anyone NOT expect the LeBrons to sweep the artists formerly known as the Pistons? Did anyone expect Utah to actually challenge the Lakers? Then why have those two storylines dominated the headlines?
Back to tonight's game and this season's series. Neither of these teams is the same as they were for most of this season. Chicago got substantially better after the big trade with Sacramento, and Boston lost perhaps the best defender in the league--certainly the best pick-and-roll defender--in Kevin Garnett. To make matters worse for the champs, they've also lost his backup, Leon Powe. These changes have made the teams so evenly matched, neither can impose their will on the other for more than a quarter or two.
I can't imagine Game 6 will be any different on Thursday. I, for one, can't wait to find out. Let me know if you feel another series is/was better and whether you're as enthralled as I am.
Full disclosure--I am a life long Celtics fan. So, of course I am rooting for the C's to win, but regardless of outcome this is truly Fan-tastic. Enjoy!
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