Now that’s how you flip the script and turn a 14% chance of winning on its head.
I kept thinking to myself the Sixers MUST win this game. The game was played exactly as it should (more on this later), and the situation was perfect for a quick steal. If you can’t beat Orlando when they shoot 5-18 from three and you shoot 7-12, things become a bit hopeless. Because of that it was imperative that the Sixers take advantage of this opportunity. And they did.
Analyzing Game 1
I had 6 keys to winning this series. After every game I am going to recap how the Sixers fared in those critical areas.
Put up more shot attempts.
- Sixers: 80
- Magic: 76
Plus 4 Sixers.
Force turnovers and take care of the ball yourself.
- Sixers: 10
- Magic: 10
Even. This was actually a really cleanly played game overall by both teams.
Control the boards with a team approach.
- Sixers: 37
- Magic: 35
Plus 2 Sixers and even on the offensive boards.
No more “hope” perimeter defense.
Orlando shot 48.7% from the field. That’s okay because it was largely due to Howard going 11-13. That was clearly the strategy Dileo had in place. The right one. Play Howard straight up most of the game and stay home on the shooters.
During the season Orlando attempted 26.2 threes per game. Tonight they only had 18. That is a HUGE deal and something that must continue the rest of the series. I said we can compete 2’s vs. 2’s, and we can’t compete 2’s vs. their 3’s. We did a good job of running them off the line, contesting the shots they did take and allow our back defenders take care of penetration instead of the help coming from the wings. That point was clear when you see that Rafer Alston attempted 15 shots (5-15) more than Lewis and Turkoglu. I mentioned in the comments that Alston needed to be made into a finisher not a passer. The Sixers took away that corner three kick-out option for the most part on his drives, and he was forced to make contested lay-ups. He had to have missed at least 4 tonight.
Foul Dwight Howard.
12 free throw attempts for Howard and more importantly he was fouled a few times when he had a clear dunk or lay up. He was better than normal tonight hitting at a 75% clip. But that must continue to be the strategy. Play him straight up the best you can. Force him to take contested shots going away from the rim. If he beats you – foul him. We have plenty of bodies to throw at him that it’s not necessary to give up any easy baskets to him. Make him work for his 30 points.
Take Hedo Turkoglu out of the game
I had this as a huge factor for the Sixers, and they won it in a big way. Iguodala was in his ass all night. He only attempted 8 shots and didn’t make his first until the 4th quarter. He finished the game 2-8, 6 points, 4 assists and 5 boards. Basically a non-factor.
Game 1 Specifics
I thought Tony Dileo did a great job in his preparation, game plan and rotations tonight. His defensive strategy was clear, and the players executed it well. He got Donyell in the game at the right time, and it paid off in a big way.
Speaking of Donyell Marshall. At this point is there really any reason why he shouldn’t see at least 10 minutes every game? He has proven he can hit shots, in any game, at any time off the bench. The Sixers don’t win without his 11 points. And the runner he hit with 2:11 left in the game was, in my opinion, bigger than Iguodala’s. Orlando was up 4 having scored on two straight possession and were looking like they were going to go on a run to close the game out. That shot kept it a one possession game and didn’t allow the Magic to open up a lead late.
About Iguodala, here is what I said before the game:
At some point players go one way or the other. Leaders emerge or they don’t. They define themselves.
Iguodala is talking the talk right now which for me means he has put the pressure on himself and predetermined this series as his defining moment. His team is a big underdog, and he is the center piece one way or another. He can go one way or the other. He steps up and dominates or he withers away in the shadows like last year’s playoffs. Not only that but he demonstrates leadership both on and off the court elevating the level of play of his teammates as well. If he goes the right way we could see change.
I think it’s pretty clear which way he went in game 1. The next step is to follow it up with an equally as strong performance in game 2 and put the Magic in an unenviable hole as the 3-seed going on the road down 2-0. And act like he’s been there before with his demeanor and bask in the glory as a team rather than all eyes on me.
The impact of this win will translate into a bigger home crowd in game 3 for sure. That’s an important point to note.
I have a bunch of thoughts about what this game means for game two. The playoffs are about adjustments, and Orlando will make theirs. The Sixers will need to be prepared.
Next game: Wednesday at 7
{ 72 comments… read them below or add one }
Dannie, I still feel Iggy is somewhere in the middle as far as what the finished product will be, but his performance tonight was very Pippenisque. I admire his “be the leader” mindset but hope eventually he can be an end game facillitator more than the guy putting it in the hoop. Who gets more minutes the rest of this series ,Donyell or Marreese?
great points Dannie
I think this is a huge loss for Orl for the way it came, now we’ll see their mental toughness. They have to regroup and bounce back immediately. It means we have a chance to make it 2-0.
I think we need some more second chances (= more off boards) when our shots will not fall, we won’t make 5 treys in the 4th often…
Also let’s try to put Howard in foul troubles, give the ball to the big man in the low post at the beginning of the game
What a game
Suede – Depends on front court foul situation. If Sam and Theo pick up fouls earlier in the game you have a choice between having Speights or Evans trying to defend Howard. I feel like Speights will look too much like a rookie to see much time. With that said I much rather see him than Evans for one BIG reason. If Howard has the luxury of defending Evans that means he can roam freely to protect the rim on our drives. That’s not good for us. This isn’t the type of match-up Reggie thrives in.
But like I said there is absolutely no reason Marshall shouldn’t be playing a minimum of 10 minutes per game and if it’s close at the end he should be in there as a perimeter shooting threat. The other thing about Marshall that goes unnoticed is although he is clearly older and slower now he still works hard to box out and try to play defense. He if he gets beat he fouls hard enough to prevent a lay up. That is good in the playoffs.
Ricky – Orlando is the 2nd best defensive rebounding team in the NBA offensive boards will be at a premium in this series for the Sixers which makes getting to the foul line, forcing turnovers and making their open shots even more critical.
If only we had a big man worthy of low post touches. Instead you attempt to get him in foul trouble by putting him in pick and roll situations and driving at him.
To the point of forcing turnovers, the young Sixers need to be reminded that traveling and three second calls are limited in the playoffs. They have to defend the full 24 seconds.
I like the full court “pressure” tactic DiLeo used, it set the defensive tone all day in terms of knowing where your man is at all times.
Thad is still rotating a little too slow for my liking with his length I would have thought he should get a block or two.
Who thinks Lee will play this way the entire series? Or has he played this way all season?
Dre – Courtney Lee is a really nice young player (actually the exact type of player the Sixers need) I like him a lot. He defends well and should get better in that area with experience. He averaged 8.4 ppg on 45% from the field and 40% from three.
Yesterday he was just more aggressive and took more shots because the Sixers forced him to by taking away Turk and Lewis.
I have to imagine this was the first time since Nelson has been out that the starting back court attempted 32 shots in a non-blowout game.
Dannie: ‘We still have a lot of work to do and that needs to be the mentality.’ – my greatest fear. our best chance to win is to win that game 2, if not, the Magic get back in and it becomes competitive again, usually the better team prevails. Its like that time in baseball games where if the other team doesnt blow the trailing team out or put them away, momentum shifts so suddenly and uncontrollably that its almost like you lost the game right there in the 6th inning when you were still up by 3. baseball analogy… not the best. they really need this game, i see no other way for them winning the series. Orlando has the best road record in the NBA. Can the Sixers sense this and pull off the upset? the 3 day hiatus is perfect to regroup and refocus. Mr. Big balls up there needs to get on his fellow rugrats and make something happen, now!!
Is it just me or does everyone just think that we have little chance of winning this series if the Magic can even it up? with all our stellar play we just won a close game.
well…we’ll see.
@ Dannie
completely correct, but we finished #2 in the League in off rebounds (nearly 13 per game) so this means last night we remained 5 under our average, that was my point.
You are right also when you say we have to attack the rim and play some pick and roll to get Howard in foul trouble. Iggy (& AM) shooting only 2 FTs is another area where we can improve.
How does that sound?
Speights needs to play more in the paint also, and stop shooting 17 footers… but it was his first playoffs game so he’ll get a pass
ouh, and I like Lee a lot as well, nice player.
hear this, I’d even trade Willie Green for him
jkay, as far as mentality goes I think the Andy Reid “one game at a time” approach is best.
We shouldn’t win “the series” but it is possible to “this game” three more times (if that makes sense).
On a side note: Why did Detroit trade Billups?
dre….It’s about the money with Billups. I believe he still has two years left on his contract, while Iverson’s expired after this season. Plus, Rasheed comes off their books this year, so they are clearing a lot of space.
Dre – Traded Billups so they are in the most favorable cap situation as humanly possible. Iverson’s $22M and Sheeds $13.7M both are coming off the books. From what I can see they only have like $33M on the books for next season. And I think Dumars actually believes in Stuckey.
I think in Dumars mind even with Billups his team wasn’t a contender in the East anymore against a healthy Cleveland or Boston. And even if they were it would be short lived (1 or 2 more seasons at best). So he is preparing to build a team that can be a legit title contender for in a year or two but with a younger core that can be at that level longer.
He has his shooter in Hamilton signed to an extension. He has his nice role player Prince signed through 2011. He has a young player at the point they like. They have a forward in Amir Johnson that is highly touted by the analysts and stat heads but he hasn’t played much because of the veterans heavy minutes ahead of him. Have Will Bynum as a spark plug off the bench Vinnie Johnson style.
They are one of the few teams with the right combination to attrack a Wade, Bosh, Amare, LeBron etc. They have plenty of money, but also have a half decent team with some proven players already there.
Think about it, if you are one of that big time players why would you go to the Knicks where they have nothing to work with?
Be interesting to see how it works out for them.
I hope the coaching staff and the players can regain their focus and grab more wins because us fans are still pumped up over Game 1, but I think the Sixers have certainly learned a lot from last year. Also, Turkoglu is not himself, whether Stan likes to admit it or not. The Sixers must go right at him and Lewis!! The Sixers MUST attempt to steal Game 2 because the Magic are not a bad road team.
Another factor is Stan Van Gundy teams under pressure. Shaq mentioned it recently:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYyAeObNdEg
It seems that his teams whether it be Miami or Orlando, that they forget about their dominant big men down the stretch in the 4th quarter.
Van Gundy teams’ have lost a series when trailing 0-1.
v.s Pacers (2nd round:03-04) 2-4
v.s Pistons (ECF 04-05) 3-4 (Gm 7: not giving Shaq the ball in the 4th)
v.s Pistons (07-08) 1-4 (meltdown Game 4; Billups iffy shot Gm 2 )
The point is MAKE THEM SECOND GUESS THEMSELVES and prove Game 1 was NOT A FLUKE!!!
GO SIXERS!!! KEEP YOUR GUARD ON!!
It looks like Magic fans are questioning Stan’s X’s and O’s:
http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=899187&st=0&sk=t&sd=a
jkay – I think the 3 days off significantly helps the Magic more than the Sixers.
Sam only played 17 minutes so he should be fresh as long as his shoulder is okay. Donyell only played 11 minutes and he has to be the most well-rested player we have. And his “always ready” mentality and individual prep should have prepared him nicely for increased minutes in the playoffs.
As far as the Magic though we are talking about two critical players on their team that are hurt. And the type of injuries they have plays, knee tendinitis and recovering sprained ankle could use some rest after an intense game one. I’d like to get them right back on the court with little rest and treatment as possible. Rather not let any soreness subside much.
Besides that we just beat them with a nice game plan. I’d prefer them to have less time to regroup strategically and put Stan Van Gundy right back in the coaching box (hot seat) having to deal with less prep time and more immediate pressure coming off an unthinkable loss for his ball club.
SVG is in a tough spot. Does he stick to his game 1 early strategy of going inside- which was successful for 3 periods? Or does he try and change things up, generating more 3pt attempts, figuring they won’t go only 5-17 again?
Also, does Orlando try and double Iguodala more and Miller less (Miller’s XCourt passes off the double resulted in 3 Sixer 3’s.) And what is their answer to Donnie-ice?
I sort of hope Orlando tries to make adjustments. If they stop trapping Milelr I think he can abuse Alson- and m,aybe he actually will get some foul calls when he goes at Howard? Overall, the Sixers should get some more calls now that they have proven themselves worthy, and will be getting some home cooking soon.
As for the Sixers, I’m most optomistic that Thad has some 30 pt games in him. He was good, but not a huge factor. Any adjustment that JVG makes that ignores Thad could really open things up to hime having impact games.
Also, in the few minutes Dalembert played were great in terms of what he had to do against Howard. He forced Howard into some tough shots, forced a couple offensive fouls of Howard, forced him to step out of bounds, he accidently closed Howard’s eyes that sparked our run, and he did not commit any of those silly turnovers. Let’s hope that trend continues!! And will anxiety be a factor for both teams for Game 2, it is a long wait?
Thad, made threes the unconventional way through AND 1’s!!! He will be a factor as well for an inside game, but defensively he needs to improve there. Based on his work ethic, he will next season!
If the Sixers think of a ride at Universal Studios, think JAWS!!! AND GAIN THAT KILLER INSTINCT!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5z-BBvgdi0&feature=related
GO SIXERS!!!
TK76 – If I was Van Gundy I don’t make any offensive adjustments. I try and refocus guys on their role. Meaning, making sure Alston doesn’t take 15 shots, more than Lewis or Turk. That to me isn’t an adjustment rather making sure a player – your point guard is doing his job which is getting the ball to guys out there who are suppose to score.
I tell Courtney Lee and Howard to keep doing what you are doing.
I think he needs to get them back to focusing on getting stops. We shot 51% that is why we won the game.
I keep double teaming Miller and maybe start doubling Iguodala (maybe not he only shot 10-23) and say okay Philly we dare you to keep shooting threes. The numbers suggest you we will start missing and they will start hitting.
I think both Lewis and Turk are still hampered with their injuries and were slow. But more importantly I thought Lewis didn’t get enough touches and Turk wasn’t aggressive getting the ball or doing anything with it once he did.
I wouldn’t worry much about the “calls.” It’s the playoffs more play, less whistles unless things get really ugly and they need to get a handle on it.
The Sixers are at their best when they PLAY THROUGH CALLS and maintain that PHYSICALITY!!! Also, Howard does get away with a couple of walks like LeBron.
Now, I expect Speights to shine when the series shifts to Philly. Technically, role players are at their best when they play at home, especially young players!!
GO SIXERS!!!
I was fine with the refs (I tend not to complain about them either way.)
Just pointing out that Miller was trying to draw fouls and the refs sort of called his bluff and did not give him the benefit of the doubt. I’ve seen it happen to Miller before- and sometimes he gets clocked in the head when he sticks his nose in there… I wonder if Miller has a reputation of a bit of a flopper?
As for JVG- I agree, he should refine but not make any major scheme changes. But I sort of hope he panics and over-analyzes the match-ups (he should leave that to the bloggers
)
Real Rob- I think it is Thad who will be the one that steps up in Philly.
Who else besides me said, “Here we go…” when Rafer Alston hit a three on the very first possession of the game? Luckily for us that trend didn’t continue.
Gutsy though characteristic crazy-ass shot made by Iguodala to capture Game 1. Successful attempt; disgraceful posing and playing to cameras and crowd after it. When did bball become a “look at me, I’m a bad MFer because I made a shot with game on line” venture? Penthouse demerits; will be discussed in monthly newsletter.
Tactical error: Van Gundy takes foot off Sixers’ throat with 18 pt lead, pulls Howard with 57 seconds to go in 3rd for an unnecessary breather. 2 quick Sixer buckets result, cut lead by 4 to only 14 by close of quarter, igniting the comeback. 18 and 14 pt deficits with 12 min to go: different hills to climb. Van Gundy’s ill-fated substitution may have had subliminal effect (”game in bag”) on Magic psyche.
Credit to Sixers for smellin’ it, takin’ advantage.
Turkoglu when healthy has better quickness/first step, is obviously not 100%. Looked tentative and passive until 4th.
tk76- Thad will bring it, that’s for sure. I’m not worried about Thad, who is perhaps our best consistent player for us and our MVP this season. He played well even with the Brand in the starting lineup and I look forward to seeing those two on the same page for interior scoring next season. Now, in terms of stepping up for Game 3 and 4, we need everyone including the inexperienced Speights.
Anyway, Kevin of The Tonight Show certainly enjoyed that victory. Last Friday, he was wearing all of this Sixer gear. Barkley was the guest star on Leno. He told Kevin that the Magic were the sleepers, while the Sixers were the ones actually sleeping. I’m glad we shocked him Game 1. There is a chance that Kevin could be performing the national anthem for the Sixers either Game 3 or 4. That should be fun.
Also, Dwight Howard is seeing an eye doctor.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/playoffs/2009/news/story?id=4084066
GO SIXERS!! GET GREEDY!!!
Dre, I forgot Lee was more than a spot up shooter but remember reading before last years draft that his p.g. went down [Western Kentucky I believe] and he played some point in college in an emergency. I would like to see Donyel at the 5 some if Howard is sitting and our offense is struggling but if we are playing well defense first [Theo].
jjg: given the vitriol that you have directed at Iguodala (typical of your comments all year), is it accurate to say that you would rather the Sixers lose than win with him as the hero?
Thad should do less spinning near basket where he sometimes is out of control (sees nothing but the shot). It’s hard to convince eager youngsters to reduce speed though. He could really tough to guard if he gains some bulk/strength, gets more comfortable with contact and acquires a mid-range game (10-15 ’stop and pop’, ‘catch and shoot’).
Sixers starters plus-minus: -31
Sixers reserves: +41
The ball is in Van Gundy’s court. My guess is he won’t totally overhaul everything, but will try to involve Turkoglu and Lewis more.
80’s Bobby Jones, One man’s “vitriol” is another man’s candid perspective. Put out some opinions of your own on the subject of Iguodala, and then we’ll hash it out.
jjg: I am happy when the Sixers win, no matter who wins it for them. For example, I don’t care much for the game of your hero Willie Green, he who went 100+ minutes without a rebound recently, but I would be overjoyed if he hit the winning shot of a close game, especially a playoff game. Whereas I get the impression if Iguodala or Lou Williams were to be the heroes in a Sixer win (and both of them played large roles in the Game 1 win), you would be much less “happy” in your postgame comments than if they had been the goats in a Sixer loss. So my opinion is this: to root for the failure of players on your own team (because of a deep-seated desire to see them one day no longer play for said team) is to take the famous negativity of Philly sports fans to an extreme. But I don’t desire to “hash it out” with you (I doubt I would be a worthy match) — I was just curious as to the answer to my initial question.
jjg: On the one hand, I agree with you: I wish Dre could take his great play in stride like the Boston’s Rondo with his cool, calm get-it-done approach. But I don’t agree with you calling the game-winning bucket “crazy” or Barkley calling it “lucky.” Turkoglu was on Dre like glue and he got himself just enough daylight for a clean read and sufficient space to get the shot off. It didn’t look pretty, but it went in. After last year’s performance, Dre just proved that he is the real deal: a solid NBA player who can come through in a clutch situation. I hope he (or someone) can deliver in every game for Philly.
Did anyone see Game 2 of that Chicago-Boston game? That series and hopefully our series are the most entertaining first round matchups. Forget everything else. WOW! Ben Gordon was AMAZING in that game, although the Celtics won when Ray Allen woke up. Now, I hope the Sixers will be ready for whatever the Magic throw at them Game 2. So far, the Celtics and the Spurs came out with aggression and it is clearly helping them even their respective series.
GO SIXERS!! TAKE TWO!!
Iggy reminds me of the fireman in the movies who starts a fire and then shows up at the fire and puts it out and he is called, the hero meaning, missing two freethrows at the end of last game, if he would have made one or two maybe we did not need that last shot. Iggy has missed many simple foul shot all season towards the end of the games also has problems with his ball handling and turning the ball over at inoppertune times towards the end of the game. Then he gets a chance to play hero because of his own mess ups, as the season went on thank God he”s making up for his mistakes. It would just be nice if Iggy had some personallity and at least looked like he likes playing with his teamates he makes game winning shots and teamates run over to congratulate him and he doesn”t even recipicate, he comes off very self centered. He “s suppose to be the leader of a NBA team but he”s acting like he”s the leader of a street gang with his facial looks and his hand gestures. I expected Iggy to be a more classy leader, maybe with time and maturity he will, he is only 25. Nobody wants to see the Sixers win more then all the steady blogers on Recliner GM. I hope Dileo,has a great game plan for Wed,he”s going to need it. I hope he gets the three point shooting going early. Magic is going to try and bury us and make are life miserable. We have to play our best.GO SIXERS
jjg: even as an Iguodala fan, it bothers
me when he does the super-cocky gestures but I figure he goes through the game focused, little emotion shown even on dunks, only chatter he does is to teammates or usual crying to the refs. If at the end when he does something big he decides to go crazy then whats the problem? Sure its not classy but who cares? kinda like the chase utley F-word thing…I mean the Phillies won the WS!!! he can say whatever he wants!
well i guess this kinda bothers more than a few ppl. uh well… at least just win the game then, its all that matters anwyay.
jkay: He is certainly learning a lot from Kobe. Even the goofy facial expressions are the same with the lip pouting. LOL
But, hey Iggy is learning from the best competitor and learning to never back down from competition! I like that and that is where Kobe gets my respect from his competitive edge!
GO SIXERS!!! THANKS KOBE!!
ok, ok, ok, get this, may not be news but found it on depressed fan blog.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDzpiXeGc6s
LMAO. for a moment i thought it was an official video. ohh wow seeing it that way was reaally something!! the moves….he looked like a regular MJ. who said the shot wasnt pretty.
u know what Dave Chapelle said that everything looks good in slow motion. SO TRUE!!!
jkay or anyone else – Don’t ever say that again (jokingly or seriously) on this blog, you could be banned!
KG, The big ticket. Now that guy is a classless prick.
Trouble in Orlando!
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_bianchi/2009/04/magics-polish-center-marcin-gortat-rips-stan-van-gundy-for-panicking.html
Dannie, Would you accept “he looked like a regular World B. Free”? After all, he showed that shot-predetermination and rainbow arc of the Brownsville Bomber. Ka-boom!! The Seventy-Sixers win game 1!! Springfield, Illinois erupts!!
Greek - I have that quote as the lead in to my Game 2 post. Read it yesterday. Shaq called him out on this and it’s the belief that is why he was ran out of Miami because of his panicky coaching style didn’t sit well with a 3-time NBA champion, future hall-of-famer and a young up and coming great player. So they had to get him out of there.
Gorvat sets a nice pick. Latest one on his head coach. Good way to get more PT.
jkay: great video, and I remember that Chapelle skit as well – good call. Turkogolu was playing some excellent D there.
I think the Magic are trying to milk out everything they did in that 3rd quarter and try to speed up the game. They followed Barkley’s advice at Game 1’s halftime. The Sixers just have to be ready and not lose their composure over missed calls like Iggy did in that quarter. He missed a couple of easy layups and did not get any calls. They just play through the calls like they always do.
Expect a more assertive Lewis and Turkoglu whether healthy or not healthy.
The Sixers are cool and calm like Fonzie or Buddhist monks (and Tony DiLeo is the Dalai Lama). They need to think Disney and make the Magic act like the White Rabbit of Alice in Wonderland (make them panic!)
Also, Dwight Howard wants the ball more!! Sound familiar?
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/playoffs/2009/news/story?id=4084066
And if Iggy wants to gain more popularity, he needs a nickname or codename:
-He is Iron Man. (The Man of Iron)
-Iggy Smalls (”Sometimes your moves just hypnotize me!”)
Great headline:
Man of Steel v.s Man of Iron (Superman II v.s Iron Man)
GO SIXERS!!! WATCH EVERY GAME 2 OF THE PLAYOFFS!!!
Also, the Sixers bench could make the difference in this series! Look at how many key role players the Magic lost this (and last) season:
Maurice Evans (Hawks)
Keyon Dooling(Nets)
Carlos Arroyo (Tel-Aviv)
Pat Garrity (retired)
James Augustine (waived)
Brian Cook (Houston)
What a difference a year makes!!
GO SIXERS!! TAKE TWO!!
I propose “Spike” ‘Dala for Iggy’s moniker, with respect to his dunks, killer instinct and financial portfolio.
“Spike” is fitting too for his railroading of officials.
If I’m Van Gundy, I keep takin’ it right at Sixers’ defensive faults, Miller, Williams (when he’s in), Young and Dalembert-on-Howard. And bet the house on a stronger Magic defensive effort, while taking my chances that the Marshall Plan doesn’t include 11 in 11 again. His worst nightmares: Thad busts out offensively, Sam has a ‘1 in 10′ game, Turkoglu remains as gimpy, Gortat is interviewed by the Krakow Khronicle.
According to ESPN, an announcement will be made at 2PM about who the defensive player of the year is. Most likely Howard, who deserves it. However, if Garnett were healthy, then we would certainly give Howard fits in repeating that title.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4086156
The Trophy will be presented Game 2 prior to tip-off. There will be a flurry of emotions, especially from the Magic side. The question is, “Can they handle it?” Typically, those players that receive the award get too sucked in emotionally, plus his team is trailing the series. Howard also demands the ball more, which is good for us so the Sixers can hone in on their perimeter shooters. The reason why Howard does not get the ball in the 4th is due to his iffy free throw shooting. Encorporate the Hack A Howard and mess with his mind and the Sixers can perhaps win this series.
The Sixers MUST wreck havoc on the emotional Magic. They want to attack us early and we must respond. Take a look at the other Game 2’s that have occured thus far. Keep the game manageable and not trail 18+. Teams will continue to lull themselves on the Sixers without even knowing it, but repeating an 18 pt deficit will be tough.
Guys that need to step up for Orlando: Rashard Lewis & Hedo Turkoglu
Guys that need to step up for Philly: Thaddeus Young & Willie Green
Webber mentioned an interesting point about the Magic, “Who is their leader in the locker room?” The Magic lack that leadership. Dwight is not leadership type just yet, but demanding the ball could be a slight step. Rashard and Hedo are basically followers. Only Stan Van Gundy is the leader, but they lack a leader on the court!! The Sixers have some leaders: Andre Miller and Elton Brand, plus one in progress in Andre Iguodala. Theo Ratliff and Donyell Marshall are our solid war vets.
What do Iggy’s plays and Robert Downey Jr have in common, besides my nickname of Iron Man?
They are both brilliant, yet crazy (in a good sense).
GO SIXERS!! USE THE JEDI MIND TRICK AND MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!!
(Sixers use magic trick on Magic: “These aren’t the players, you’re looking for!”)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnjaUoR15dU
Do you guys follow NBADRAFT.net? So far, the Sixers have the 17th pick and they right now have James Johnson(From Wake Forest) as the pick. This guy would be just the backup the Sixers need for Iggy with defense and length.
http://www.nbadraft.net/players/james-johnson
The Sixers are a good starting SG from getting better, as well as a healthy Elton Brand. (I hope we resign Ratliff and Marshall as well!)
Anyway, GO SIXERS!!! UPSIDE IS HUGE!! UPSET IS POSSIBLE!!
Dannie: ‘Don’t ever say that again (jokingly or seriously) on this blog, you could be banned!’ – dude you seriously don’t get it, do you?
Morty: good u appreciate it. live, it looked ordinary but in slow mo, the moves, the release with his right hand, it looked so good. its amazing these things u know. maybe i should make a video of myself.
More and more, the Magic are dealing with a lot of dilemmas and distractions, check this out:
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-sportsmagic21042109apr21,0,4362209.story
GO SIXERS!! STAY THE ENLIGHTENED PATH (Buddhist style)!!
Dannie: uh well guess you do but couldnt resist a good laugh. sorry
Magic trouble: Anthony Johnson?? he’s a 7+yr veteran… this is not good news for SVG regardless of whether they win or not.
jjg, reading more about Dr. J – to a paraphrase badly from “The Basketball Book” by Sports Illustrated, Dr. J could differentiate between playground ball and the kind of basketball you needed to win in the NBA. If he pulled off playground stuff in an NBA game, it was because he felt it was the best way to score. I would say MJ was like that, too. But a lot of NBA players right now aren’t – a lot of the guys on this team seem to be like that. Not Thad, though, but he has his moments.
jkay – I think either team could win on the road, I don’t think there’s any sort of homecourt advantage to this series. That Orlando crowd didn’t scare me at all. The Sixers could win tomorrow and then lose the next two at home. The Wachovia crowd doesn’t give them much.
Quote by Turkaglu,” if it was the regular season I wouldn!t be playing”; good news as far as his status for the rest of the series. Deleo quote from the Daily News, to paraphrase ” we are real happy with L.Will!s improved defensive play”. Oh really!!!!!
Zack, Sounds like a good read. Erving and (especially) Jordan were pretty fundamentally sound, topped off their games, to the delight of fans, by highlights “pastry.” Present NBA shows a preponderance of “cart before the horse” motions. Should we blame it on Reggie Harding (RIP) or the Detroit Pistons?
suede: If they say so re: Lou. He’s shown the ability to not be awful defensively, but also that he doesn’t care much about it most of the time. Turkoglu’s injury is a big deal.
Sixers need to begin showing a collective killer instinct, foot against the throat mentality on the walking wounded.
I actually think it’s a bad thing for the Sixers to hear quotes like that from opposing players/coaches. Tends to relax guys (weak minded players particularly) when they should be full throttle.
Morty, instead of being bad on every possession down the defensive end I see one out of 3 or one out of 4 good efforts by him lately but that isn!t good enough. A.Miller gets beat because he isn!t quick enough but Lou gets beat by guys that couldn!t get within 10 yards in a race with him. It just seems that it is effort and technique.
Lou basically neutralized Courtney Lee on the offensive end and forcing him to play “honest” defense on him. Keep an eye on that matchup!
Also, calling all Miami Heat bloggers, I want to hear your take on Stan Van Gundy. And also, good luck in your series against the Hawks!!
Dannie, do you know any bloggers from Miami just out of curiousity?
And who is your Orlando counterpart? Just curious.
GO SIXERS!!!
Zack: you seem to have forgotten who the better team is even with all the injuries. to be 0-2 going on the road is is such a difficult hole to climb out of than 1-1. Orlando crowd shouldnt scare anyone, but then neither does the Wachovia Center.
Sixers home record: 24-17
Magic Road Record: 28-13 (including 2 losses to Nets & Bucks at end of season w/ nothing to play for)
the NBA right now is just flashy. what can you say, its the market. it sells. sneakers, commericals, endorsements. it is what it is. why do you think we have ESPN highlights with dunks, snuffs and behind the back assists on? tsall good i guess.
Dannie: Iguodala went into this series with something to prove. Turk being hurt will make him look like a stud out there, he will put it to him. other than that…you’re asking for too much. dont forget this is the same sixers team that lost to the Bulls, Thunder and barely won that Cavs JV game.
jkay – I really don’t know what you are talking about. I am asking the Sixers to win game 2. If that is asking too much why bother?
jkay: No comment. Are you getting cold feet? I am a bit nervous too, but not that nervous. I think your just anxious, like we all are. Take a deep breath and drink a cold glass of water. Get some rest because we are in for quite a series! The Sixers will not back down!!
I just saw Cleveland clobbering Detroit at the half by 14. They are playing with toughness. Even though Boston is banged up against Chicago, they are playing with toughness and could win in 7 games (I hope not!). The thing about Orlando is that they lack that toughness and are soft as cookie dough. Our poise and mental toughness are what helped us win Game 1. Tomorrow will be matter of who will choke first? The Sixers might not win tomorrow, but they will make it really tough for the Magic. Playoff basketball is different from regular season basketball. Only the Cavaliers and the Lakers really look like the teams that are above all the other playoff teams (even the Sixers), but not the Magic.
But if Hedo struggles with his injuries and his contract status, that is HUGE!! He is their go to guy, especially in the 4th! Just get some sleep, we’re in for quite a series!!
GO SIXERS!!! PUT THEIR BACKS AGAINST THE WALL!!
They will win tomorrow
Rob: Thanks. I needed that. Over-thinking here.
I’m very interested to see how the Magic respond tonight. I was also of the opinion that a shorter layoff would be better for us, as we could hit them again before they had a chance to regroup. However, after all the drama that has unfolded in Magic-land, maybe a couple days off spent stewing in their own juices could work to our advantage.
I haven’t seen the confident pronouncements you’d expect from the Magic. You know, “We got away from what we normally do.”, “We know the type of ball we need to play.”, “It’s only one game. We’ll straighten out and be fine.”, that kind of stuff.
I mean, they beat us all 3 times during the regular season. We beat them once and they are already displaying self-doubt? Seems like they are psychologically fragile for a 59-win team, don’t you think?
jkay – My personal viewpoint is that you can throw a lot of the regular season stuff out the window in the playoffs, and this is one of the reasons the playoffs are awesome. It’s a bunch of gladiators out there with different weapons, and they go at each other like they’re fighting for their lives; I can’t say this enough – it’s awesome. Iggy going all-out on those “one-man fastbreaks”? I only see him this determined in high-profile games.
Getting to my point ’cause I gotta go: I think that the tone for the series was set in game 1 – every game is going to be close. The Sixers saw the Magic across the battlefield with better and shinier weapons and have essentially said IS THAT ALL YOU GOT? BRING IT! I think that homecourt advantage has been completely thrown out of this series.
Dr. Will Perhaps Choke: “Having run a comprehensive battery of tests, I conclude that the Magic’s inability to ward off transference of their Pistons-distress to the Sixers-challenge is the most reasonable explanation for their increased anxiety and uncharacteristic self-sabotaging behaviors. Thus, I’m prescribing a mild sedative to reduce atypical shooting and induce the normality of winning, the baseline of which is documented. I’m confident that the ascribed Game 1 symptoms will
subside. However, should symptoms persist, have Sir Stanley Van Gundy make an appointment with me.”
Magic question: Who is the leader of the Magic? Who is the Captain captain?
For Boston, you have Pierce, Allen, Garnett
For Cleveland, you have James, Williams, Wallace
For Los Angeles, you have Bryant, Fisher
For Denver, you have Billups
For San Antonio, you have Duncan
Anyway, this series is a series of opposites:
Magic- great 3pt team Sixers- poor 3pt team
(Irony of Game 1, Sixers made more threes and hit a better percentage!)
Magic- panicky coach Sixers- Coach Buddha
Magic- slow footed SFs Sixers- quick footed SFs
Take this Seinfeld video for example,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKUvKE3bQlY
GO SIXERS!!! I’M EXCITED GUYS, REALLY EXCITED!!(in a Costanza voice)
Magic – charasmatic superstar center Sixers – blundering pencil-thin post man
Magic - motivation for ’saving face’ Sixers – the want, but not the need, to win
Magic – pressure to perform Sixers - a freebie; relative ease
Magic on-court leader?: spiritually, Turkoglu - - imo tonight’s game turns on his health/capacities, energy, shooting-proficiency and decision-making, one way or the other; visually, Howard – - as a teammate, who wouldn’t be inspired and strongly encouraged by his presence and some of his exploits?