While I think the Lakers will win this series, I didn't expect a 25 point game one win. Analysts have been quick to jump on the bandwagon, but this is still going to be a long series. Orlando has got just the right amount of confidence and young, naiveity to come back and steal game 2. Some thoughts:
- If Lamar Odom continues to display the type of energy he has had in the last 3 games, it's a wrap. That's just a fact.
- Orlando needs to get Dwight Howard moving. He's standing still in the post too often, playing right into what the Lakers front line wants him to do.
- I am expecting the Nelson/Alston situation to continue to be a problem. Van Gundy doesn't seem to have a handle on it...so I wouldn't be surprised if eventually, the Magic as an organization agree to just sit Nelson and go with who got them here.
- It's so great having Ariza around. What a difference he would've made defensively last year in the Finals.
- That was as aggressive and as focused as I've ever seen Kobe. There is no doubt in my mind he is going to have a ridiculous series.
- In order to win in LA, the Magic are going to need at least 2 of their top 3 to have big games and they need one other play to play out of their mind.
For game 2, I am expecting the Magic to come out aggressively and re-focused early. I wouldn't be surprised to see them take a double digit lead in the first half. But, I think as the game moves on, Kobe will assert himself and the Lakers should come from behind for a 2-0 lead. The Lakers need this game to get a grip on Orlando.
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