The NBA is on FIRE right now!
This has easily been one of the greatest first rounds ever witnessed in history (even Magic Johnson took to Twitter agreeing). And that was before it was official too. Today marks the first time in NBA history we get three Game 7s on the same day and they have all have been packed with unique storylines.
The Pacers meltdown, Clippers controversy and slander towards Kevin Durant, there’s been developing stories from every angle. It was almost a record breaking SIX game 7’s this weekend, but the Rockets were ousted out of the playoffs last night thanks to a Damian Lillard buzzer beater from the heavens.
But let’s concentrate on what’s going on today, shall we?
Following a disappointing Game 5, even the Oklahoma paper started to turn on their superstar Kevin Durant by deeming him “Mr. Unreliable.” Clearly he got the message as he showed up and showed out in Game 6. Durant poured in 36 points while grabbing 10 boards. His performance catapulted him ahead of Kobe Bryant and Lebron James for most 35+ point playoff games since 2010 too. Memphis, although a number 7 seed, is no slouch and has consistently pushed teams to the brink in the Western Conference playoffs every year, and it will be a battle in OKC tonight.
Unfortunately for the Grizzlies, they will not be at full strength as Power Forward Zach Randolph was issued a one game suspension for punching Steven Adams in the third quarter of Game 6. This is following news that Mike Conley could also miss with a strained hamstring. Can Memphis overcome the adversity and pull a major upset against the Thunder, who many have considered a title contender? The way these playoffs have gone it wouldn’t surprise us one bit.
Then we have the Pacers-Hawks series, which has been insane considering the Hawks have been in control AS AN 8 SEED. But, the Pacers looked like they woke up and realized how quick their regular season work was about to go down the drain a few days ago, because the team we all expected showed up. The Hawks tried to add to the momentum revealing the alternative logo, while the Pacers were clearly fighting for their playoff lives. It showed as tempers flared in the first half as George Hill and Mike Scott got into a scuffle. Luckily for both teams, things were broken up quickly and it appears that no suspensions will be handed out. However, unfortunate for Center Ian Mahinmi, in the third quarter Scott came out with aggression and posterized the Pacers big man.
Which Indiana team will show up tonight? The one we throughout the first half of the season or the team in self-destruct mode? We cannot wait to see.
Lastly, the matchup that has drawn national attention – Clippers vs. Warriors. We all know about the remarks from Donald Sterling and its affect on not only the team but the nation as well. But, what is more important moving forward is how the team was able to come out in Game 5 and play Clipper basketball. The Warriors responded with a great counterpunch at home, led by Steph Curry who contributed 24 points and 9 assists. The great thing is that following Adam Silver’s announcement we were able to get back to basketball and fully enjoy the series. Game 7 will be high intensity and emotional in LA, no matter whom comes out on top. This has been one for the history books and we commend both teams for their professionalism throughout.
So there you have it. We’re on pace to watch some incredible basketball on this lovely SAturday, with three teams left standing when it’s all said and done.
“I love this game.”