Phil Jackson and LeBron James would rather not play games on Christmas. Doc Rivers, on the other hand, looks at it as a privilege to participate in the NBA's regular season showcase event. Either way, here are my thoughts about the ball games that took place on this day of giving, celebrating, and rejoicing for Christians around the world.
Chicago Bulls vs. New York Knicks
It appears as though New York finally has a team to be proud about again. The Knicks play with wonderful passion and have been winning thanks to dominating performances by Amar'e Stoudemire, Raymond Felton's fantastic decision making, the long-range shooting of Danilo Gallinari, the steadiness of Wilson Chandler, and the all-around contributions from sensational rookie Landry Fields.
Chicago, when completely healthy, will be one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. The biggest reason for their success is Derrick Rose. Roses' speed, explosiveness, and athleticism make him one of the most exciting players in the world to watch. The Bulls, sorely missing the interior presence of Joakim Noah, were just not able to match the intensity of the surging Knicks in today's ball game.
Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic
Boston came into today riding the highs of a 14-game winning streak. Two days ago the overhauled Magic snapped league-leading San Antonio's 10-game winning streak. This afternoon the Magic unleashed their amazing potential for a second straight game. Orlando showed tremendous resolve against the gritty Celtic defense and Dwight Howard, despite struggling into the fourth quarter, displayed incredible maturity by making several big plays down the stretch.
It will be very interesting to see how the recent trades affect the Magic. They still need to add a back up center, but even without one Stan Van Gundy's squad is one of the most dangerous in the league. With that kind of talent at his disposal, we are going to see what kind of a coach Van Gundy really is.
Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The match up that everybody had been talking about finally happened....and Staples Center denizens saw LeBron James play the role of Grinch for a second straight year. The Heat, playing outstanding basketball of late, were led by James' 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Miami's swarming defense totally dismantled the Lakers' high-powered attack by holding L.A. to just 80 points, 25 below their season average.
Today the Lakers' lacked energy, emotion, and intelligence. Coming off a 19-point thrashing at the hands of the lowly Milwaukee Bucks, the two-time defending champions surprisingly looked disinterested throughout the contest. The Lakers will get on the other side of this once they realize it is a mental thing and an energy thing. Kobe Bryant summed up their recent performances best by saying, "I think these games mean more to our opponents than they do us."
Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
This game was all about one thing: Kevin Durant. KD may make it look easier than anybody. He is an outstanding scorer and is quickly establishing himself as one of the hardest players to guard....in NBA history. Trust me, he is! His length, athleticism, skill set, and understanding of the game enable him to score in so many ways. Not only that, but he is great at drawing fouls and converts 89% of his free throw attempts.
Why am I only writing about Durant? What does all this mean? Today ABC/ESPN's Mark Jackson said on air that Dwayne Wade is the 3rd best off-guard in the history of the game, behind Michael and Kobe. Although Durant measures 6'9" and is listed as a forward/guard, he plays the game as a shooting guard. In the end, I believe he will be thought of as the 3rd best of all-time. Only time will tell....
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