NBA Playoffs Day 2 Breakdown
All of the NBA Playoffs Series are now 1 – 0. Our Day 2 breakdown of all the action and the impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Cavs Vs Pistons
A surprisingly tough opening game for the #1 seed in the East, the Pistons role players played great for 2+ quarters while the Cavs’ struggled. Generally, that is the opposite with home role players succeeding.
For the Cavs, an early scare could be a fine thing as long as they get their legs under them and move forward. That Kevin Love was great throughout the game is huge big picture. He was aggressive and owned the moment.
Series: 1 – 0 Cleveland
Hornets Vs Heat
In the series that many, including this writer, believed would be a tough, close and great one, Game 1 was a blowout that showed how important experience is in the NBA Playoffs. The veteran Heat destroyed the young Hornets who only have Nicolas Batum with any experience.
The Hornets didn’t look like they belonged on the same court as Miami. Hopefully, for them, the nerves are gone and they can settle in. Batum played okay with Kemba Walker but neither were overly efficient nor had the kind of all-around games that we are used to seeing from them.
For the Cavs, we have to wonder if playing the Heat would be the worst case scenario. They are full of veterans, have a talented point guard and a big man in the middle. Miami also seems to be in the head of one LeBron James.
Series: 1 – 0 Miami
Grizzlies Vs Spurs
The Grizzlies are playing a lot of D-League players due to injuries. They put up a tough fight into the 2nd quarter and then were demolished by the mighty Spurs. Memphis is going to try to much up the series as much as possible but are unlikely to take even a game.
For the Spurs, this series should help their confidence and rhythm perfectly. Their offense and defense picked up the pace and got rolling for them to destroy the Grizz in quick fashion.
If, a big if, the Cavs really want to face the Spurs instead of the Warriors, the easier the path the aged Spurs have the better. They should get plenty of rest in and after this series.
Series: 1 – 0 San Antonio
Blazers Vs Clippers
More from King James Gospel
- 3 possible starting lineups for Cleveland Cavaliers in 2023-24
- The Cavaliers may have snagged a hidden gem in Craig Porter Jr.
- 4 players the Cavaliers should pursue in 2024 free agency
- 6 players Cavaliers might replace Jarrett Allen with by the trade deadline
- This stat is one to keep an eye on for Cavaliers’ Max Strus in years ahead
The Blazers are somewhat of a surprise after losing LaMarcus Aldridge this off-season. They are led by a dynamic backcourt that includes Damian Lillard. They don’t, however, have the kind of talent to compete long-term with the top teams in the West.
The Clippers, on the other hand, do. Chris Paul, J.J. Redick, DeAndre Jordan, Blake Griffin and Jeff Green can make things tough for the Spurs and Warriors should they matchup. The Clippers tend to self destruct but their talent level is high enough that they can make a series long and possibly pull off the upset.
For the Cavs, having the Clippers to beat up on the Warriors in the 2nd Round is best case scenario. The Spurs locking up with the Thunder should also be helpful for the Cavs. Anything to make the roads more difficult, and raise any hope for upsets, is good for the Cavs.
Series: 1 – 0 LA
Stephen Curry Update
Curry is questionable for today’s game due to his ankle. His health will be a key to watch all NBA Playoffs long.
What do you think about the first games in each series so far?