Preview: Cavaliers at Spurs, March 26th
2010-03-26
Relevant Statistics:
Pace: Cavs 93.2 (25th) vs. Spurs 93.8 (23rd)
Offensive Efficiency: Cavs 109.4 (2nd) vs. Spurs 107.1 (9th)
Defensive Efficiency: Cavs 100.9 (7th) vs. Spurs 102.3 (9th)
Notes:
-I don’t think Tony Parker plays in this one, which is a break for the Cavs. When he plays, I get 2007 flashbacks.
-Duncan’s coming off a 2-11 game; he didn’t get to be known as one of the most consistent superstars ever by stringing together bad performances.
-Spurs are a big team — we’ll see if Z can help in his 2nd game back.
-The Cavs found out the last time they played the Spurs that Manu is now more likely to beat you with threes than he is slashing. Let’s see if they can stay up in his grill.
Recommended Reading:
Kyle,
At this point we’re just going by magic numbers anyway–half-game/full game up doesn’t matter so much. Just as long as they lose some games and we win some games, it’s all good. If I remember correctly, finals home court (assuming LA) magic number is now 6 since LA lost tonight.
As far as the fatigue rest–I think the guys who really needed it have had rest forced by injuries and phantom trades. We have ORL second to last game, so I don’t think any starters are getting any real rest until the very last game against ATL anyway.
You misunderstand me, Rich. If we do, indeed, lose, then yes, by all means I’d rather have it be on the same night, or following a Lakers loss. Conversely, if LA loses, and we win, we gain a game on them for homecourt in the finals, assuming both teams make it that far. Also, might I add, that a larger cushion there would allow more rest for anyone on the team feeling fatigued.
Kyle, I really can’t understand that logic. Would it be better to lose when the Lakers win, which allows them to gain a game? I mean you have to lose sometime, and either the lakers win or lose as well, and if I’m choosing I’d rather lose when we don’t really lose any ground. Varejao not playing was huge…very huge. Hickson HAS TO OBTAIN A JUMPSTOP. If he catches the ball his only move is jump as high as possible and fly at the rim, no matter who is in his way. He has to gain some type of ability… Read more »
It just hurts to lose on the same night as the Lakers, that’s all.
Rich- Ginobli is a friggin’ superstar. He’s going to get his. Delonte and AP did what they could. The Spurs really needed this one & the Cavs didn’t, so in the end it’s all good. Fun game!
I agree on your sentiments about Z, as much as it pains me to say. The only real basketball use he has left is to bother Gasol with his length. Some of his interior defense is negated by his glacial lateral movement. I, to, would rather see Powe get his minutes.
+1 on Andy’s absence being a major, if not deciding, factor in this one.
Bigger problem than Z being rusty and Andy being out second half- Mo was really not good at all. This is where I say “If Mo had just scored his season average…”
Delonte’s defense on Ginobli left something to be desired. That said, I’m going to say something that is going to be unpopular here. I didin’t like what Z was bringing to this team before he got traded, and I certainly do not like it now. If he isn’t making his jumpshot, then what he brings to this team is very, very, minute. Love him on the team for morale and for unity…but do not love him on the team for real playing time. Would honestly rather see Powe playing than Z. People will hate to read this, but it’s how… Read more »
Not even upset the Cavs lost this one- awesome game.
AP is having a tremendous game on the defensive end in the first half. He doesn’t get enough credit.
7-14 and Cavs take a time out. Anyone see a middle-aged man on a horse?