The Hornets, a team that was predicted to not go into the playoffs in the first place are now making heads turn unto them as they posted the second best record in the powerful Western Conference behind the Los Angeles Lakers. Led by an MVP candidate named Chris Paul, the Hornets is now a wonderful franchise with a huge talent upside. Coach Byron Scott, who won the Coach of the Year Award this year, has obviously been successful in rebuilding this franchise after it traded Baron Davis and drafted Chris Paul.
The San Antonio Spurs are obviously the defending champs. They have the best Big 3 in my opinion. They have Tim Duncan, one of the best Power Forwards in NBA History. They have Manu Ginobili, one of the best Sixth Men slash Starter in the league. Then, there is Tony Parker, the Frenchman who killed Steve Nash in the first round with his speed. Led by one of the elite coaches in the NBA in the name of Gregg Poppovich, the Spurs are absolutely one of the title contenders this playoffs.
Now some analysis!
BACKCOURT
Chris Paul versus Tony Parker would be the bomb absolutely. Ginobili can dominate Mo Peterson in my opinion with his strength and ability. The backcourt of the Spurs mainly has experience(Stoudemire, Vaughn), speed(Parker), finesse(Ginobili) and perimeter marksmanship(Barry).
One thing that is going for the Hornets is that Chris Paul is hot. Mo Pete can torch up some threes when he is on fire. The backcourt depth of New Orleans cannot be questioned. They have Pargo who is deadly. They also have Bonzi Wells, acquired in the Bobby Jackson trade. Then there is Mike James, who can score a lot when he feels to.
ADVANTAGE: Spurs - Ginobili is the X-Factor
FRONTCOURT
The Spurs made one of the worthwhile trades by acquiring Kurt Thomas. Tim Duncan is still good as ever. Bruce Bowen probably will take a shot at defending Paul who is faster than Steve Nash.
The Hornets have Tyson Chandler, one of the best rebounders this season. Then, there is David West, the guy who basically toyed with Dirk Nowitzki by touching Dirk's cheek. Then, there is Peja Stojakovic, one of the best shooters of the game in my opinion. About the bench of the frontcourt, there is Hilton Armstrong, the guy who provides energy.
ADVANTAGE: Tie - Both have formiddable frontcourts in my opinion.
OVERALL
In terms of experience, the Spurs shine. In coaching, Spurs still shine. Pop has won more titles than Scott. And Scott really does not belong to the elite yet with that Coach of the Year Award.
I believe the Spurs will be too much for the Hornets. Spurs in 6.
No comments:
Post a Comment