Sixers Shock Detroit . . . and Me

Yes, it's only one game, but the 76ers game 1 win over Detroit was a shocker. The Pistons failed to capitalize on numerous late game opportunities after blowing a 15 point lead. Philly didn't do anything particularly well. They shot 43%, had 12 turnovers, and survived Andre Iguodala's missed throws down the stretch. It's this lack of spectacular play that makes this game even more remarkable.

To set the record straight, I thought the Sixers would get swept. If I were to envision a scenario where they would win a game, Sunday's performance was not what I would have pictured.

Detroit looked like the same overconfident, disinterested team that lost to Cleveland in last year's playoffs. I'm still 100%, absolutely, positively, sure Detroit will make it out of round 1, but unless they get focused real quick, they will be ripe for a 2nd round ousting.

Chris Paul: Can He Really Be THAT Good?

If you happened to be watching New Orleans' game 1 victory over the Mavs on Saturday, you witnessed one of the greatest playoff debuts in the history of the NBA. CP3 finished with 35 points, 10 assists, and 4 steals, and more importantly, he led his team to a 104-92 victory.

If you weren't a believer in #3 before Saturday night, what in the world is stopping you now?

There's still a long way to go in this series, and only time will tell if Paul can lead his team to the 2nd round. But, one thing is certain, his performance Saturday will remain memorable, no matter the outcome of the series.

CP3 for MVP

The Weekend Watch

It's a big sports weekend if you're a fan of fighting and hoops. The NBA Playoffs tip off on Saturday, and include two very intriguing matchups.

Phoenix @ San Antonio (Sat 3:00 ABC)
The Suns acquired Shaq for this exact scenario. It's the Big Aristotle vs. the Big Fundamental. Can O'Neal turn back the clock and cement his legacy as the most dominant big man of his era? Or, will Tim Duncan lead his team to the 2nd round and put the entire nation to sleep in the process?

Dallas @ New Orleans (Sat 7:00 ESPN)
The home team won in each of the 4 regular season meetings. This is another scenario where a trade decision will be tested. It's Jason Kidd matching up against Chris Paul (my MVP choice). Holding home court will be huge for the Hornets.

Bernard Hopkins vs. Joe Calzaghe (Sat 9:45 HBO)
Calzaghe vs. Hopkins provides us with the best Middleweight of this era and the best Super Middleweight. The catch? The fight's happening at Light Heavyweight. This favors Calzaghe, who is naturally the bigger man. If Hopkins doesn't have the power to hurt Joe, I expect the Welshman to pressure B-Hop all night and score a Unanimous Decision.

Georges St. Pierre vs. Matt Serra (Sat 10:00 PPV)
GSP has looked spectacular in his last two outings, which is no easy feat considering they were against Josh Koscheck and Matt Hughes. Serra caught Pierre in their first fight, but I just can't envision it happening again. GSP will dominate and all US MMA fans will have to endure weeks of gloating and "nut huggery".

Two extremely interesting fights. One is free, one costs $55 (and you could probably find a free download within hours following the event) . . . the decision is yours.

Denver @ Los Angeles (Sun 3:00 ABC)
Sunday is a little weak in the Playoff department. The only intriguing game is the 1 vs 8 matchup out west. Any team with Melo and AI is dangerous, but I don't see them being able to overcome the red hot Lakers. If Denver has upset plans, game one may be their best opportunity to steal one in Los Angeles. If the Nuggets can't pull off a win on the road, at least Melo will have a plethora of drinking spots to choose from. Iverson looks saint-like in Denver . . . who woulda thunk'it?

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