A funny thing happened on the way to Kobe vs. LeBron in the finals.
The Orlando Magic figured out how to play good basketball. Actually, they figured it out during the Celtics series when they stopped just bombing from 3 and got aggressive. Now, Orlando is one win away from eliminating the Cavs, and giving David Stern and Phil Knight massive strokes.
I personally have nothing against LeBron James. I like him, actually. And I'm trying to appreciate his greatness. But the thought of Denver vs. Orlando in the Finals is just too delicious. I know Nike probably had to launch their campaign early just in case LBJ vs. Kobe didn't happen… but it's actually doing more to drum up anti-Laker/anti-Cavs sentiment than anything else.
As for the Magic… they're doing exactly what they should be doing: forcing LeBron to take jumpers, and taking everyone else out of the game. Who cares if he scores 40 when no on else can get a rhythm going? It's a perfect game plan… and one that "Coach of the Year" Mike Brown can't adjust to. Hey Mike, how about posting LeBron up while Mo Williams initiates the offense? Isn't that what you got him for? How long are you gonna go with "give LeBron the ball 35 feet from the hoop and get out of the way?"
There's no doubt in my mind that if Cleveland loses, Mike Brown is gone.
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