The first round of the 2003 NBA Playoffs are over. Below
is each series and a review of what we learned.
Detroit Pistons vs. Orlando Magic
What we learned: Unlike last year's playoffs, the Pistons have what it takes to
rally. After Big Ben pulled the team into line, the Pistons played tough aggressive
basketball leaving the Magic looking for the freight train that hit them. The
Pistons could go all the way to the finals.
Confirmation of what we already knew: The Magic needs a legitimate second
outside threat. T-Mac cannot do it alone and if he has to, many more first
round playoff losses will result.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. New Orleans Hornets
What we learned: That AIlen Iverson is probably playing as good a brand of ball
as ever. After destroying the Hornets, Philly's 'lil leader is ready to lead his
team against the best defense in the NBA. The importance of Kenny Thomas was also
shown as the real hard hat to compliment the high-scoring Iverson.
Confirmation of what we already knew: It is health that is the real enemy of the
Hornets. Without Jamal Mashburn and a fit Baron Davis, this team is literally
hamstrung. A healthy Davis and Mash would have resulted in a Hornets challenge
for the east.
New Jersey Nets vs. Milwaukee Bucks
What we learned: That the George Karl and Gary Payton saga Act 2, was not
as successful as hoped. The Bucks are now probably headed for a reshuffle.
Confirmation of what we already knew: So goes Jason Kidd, so goes the Nets.
Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics
What we learned: That the Celtics don't need to shoot 3's all day long to
win. More strategic shooting by the Celtics with Walker and Pierce leading
the way showed the Celtics are not out the fight yet.
Confirmation of what we already knew: Isiah Thomas cannot coach. He got embarrassed
by Jim O'Brien and in the end, the lesser talented team won the series more easily
than expected.
San Antonio Spurs vs. Phoenix Suns
What we learned: Tony Parker is not there yet. He's very good, but Stephon Marbury
owns him. Parker was outplayed on all fronts by Marbury. He needs to reassert
his aggressiveness against the Lakers. Hopefully he has not lost confidence.
Confirmation of what we already knew: The Suns are rising. The combination of
Starbury, Marion and Amare the Amazing makes Phoenix a team on the rise, despite
losing the series.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers
What we learned: Kobe decided to save his 2002-03 signature dunk for the first
round.
Confirmation of what we already knew: The Lakers turn it on when they need to
and the Wolves wont get out of the first round until they have a player who can
consistently hit from the perimeter.
Dallas Mavericks vs. Portland Trail Blazers
What we learned: Zach Randolph is a player in this league.
Confirmation of what we already knew: The Mavs really struggle against
bigger, more athletic front lines. Shawn Bradley and Raef Lafrentz are
simply not strong enough and Dirk is an outside player. Watch for this
deficiency to be exploited in round 2.
Sacramento Kings vs. Utah Jazz
What we learned: Peja Stojakovic is every bit as important as Chris Webber if
the Kings are to win it all. While Webber will get his inside, the Kings will
need a consistent perimeter threat (there is no one better than Peja) to win it
all.
Confirmation of what we already knew: Stockton and Malone were never meant to
win a ring together. They were incredible together. It just wasn't meant to be.
This should not count against them, as they are as good as it gets.
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