Following the Playoff race in the West is akin to being on one of those harrowing roller coaster rides at an amusement park. It’s a thrilling, often frightening experience.
Laker fans know all about the highs and lows. Over the last two weeks, we’ve had equal amounts of both – yes, getting positively owned by Memphis and Charlotte would qualify as a “crushing downer.”
Phoenix and Shaq seem to be rounding into shape; about as “in shape” as we can consider a 330 pound + man. So far, they seem to have figured out how to mesh their trademark running and gunning with some kind of low post presence, and they’re even sprinkling in some defense. It’s actually kind of scary to watch, but it remains to be seen if they can keep it up in the postseason.
Denver, meanwhile, makes absolutely no sense. Last week, they beat a team they had no business beating whatsoever – a motivated and clearly desperate Dallas Mavs squad that seemed to have them on the ropes in the first half. Of course, they’re just as likely to crap the bed against inferior competition. A more frustrating team does not exist.
Tonight in Phoenix, the Suns and Nuggets will play their respective roles in reshaping the hectic Playoff picture in the Western Conference. If I had any idea what to expect, I’d be out buying Powerball tickets by the truck load. As always, it should be interesting.
