We know WHEN….now we need to know WHO

Last Sunday, the Cleveland Cavaliers crushed Detroit by 21 points and ended the Pistons’ run as the premiere Eastern Conference team. It marked the 8th consecutive playoff game that the Cavs have won over the Pistons (that sentence wasn’t necessary, I just like writing it).

Since that win, the Cavs have been resting and practicing, all the while having no genuine idea when they would take the court for Game 1 of the Eastern semi-finals. For fans of the wine and gold, it’s been hard sitting and waiting. We want more….but when will we get more?

This morning, the NBA made it official. The Cavaliers next game will be either Sunday or Tuesday.

Tonight at 8pm, Atlanta visits Miami with a 3-2 lead in the series. If the Hawks win, they have to get on a plane headed north and they have to do it FAST. That Atlanta win would mean a 1pm Sunday tipoff at Quicken Loans Arena.

But if Miami pulls out the win tonight, the Cavaliers will play Game 1 on Tuesday night at 7pm.

At this point, I want to see Atlanta win tonight. I’m tired of waiting, and I think having six full days of rest is plenty. I want to get back on the court Sunday afternoon.

Also, I don’t believe that Atlanta can stay with us. They’re not that strong of a team and they have very little ability to adjust. I could say the same about Miami, but the Heat have players with an NBA title still in uniform, and that little bit of experience could be harmful. Give me the Hawks and give them to me now.

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If there is anybody out there believing the stupid hype about the Cavs getting rusty while waiting for an opponent, stop fretting. Here’s a nice tidbit of knowledge to help you get through the layover with confidence.

• 2008 champions Boston had 6 days rest between the ECF and the Finals
• 2007 champion San Antonio had 7 days rest between the WCF and the Finals
• 2006 champions Miami had 6 days rest between the 2nd and 3rd rounds
• 2005 champions San Antonio had 7 days rest between the WCF and the Finals

In other words, relax.  Teams that win their playoff games and get rest are not harmed by that rest.  The last four champions have proven that.