Perhaps this is just a bump in the road. Maybe the challenge isn’t really much of a challenge at all. It seems as if ever sports outlet is proclaiming how badly the Cleveland Cavaliers are going to smash the Atlanta Hawks in their playoff match up.
Not so fast.
I’m not ready to call the upset but I can confidently give 3 reasons why the Hawks will compete.
Joe Johnson, Mike Bibby, and Flip Murray can score against the Cleveland back court.
Mo Williams, Daniel Gibson, and Delonte West will never be mistaken for Gary Payton or Mookie Blaylock as perimeter defenders. They’ll score points but they’ll also give up points.
Josh Smith, Al Horford, and Zaza Pachulia have the size and athleticism to challenge Lebron at the rim.
If this front court triumvirate can successfully defend the rim and keep Lebron from scoring at the basket at will then half of the defensive battle is won. It’s way too much to ask of Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams, or Mo Evans to defend James one on one so the help has to be consistent.
Atlanta’s home court advantage is as formidable as Cleveland’s.
Atlanta will give Cleveland everything they want at Phillips Arena. I expect games the caliber of last year’s Boston series in terms of quality of play and excitement. Atlanta is an elite team at home and has played like it this year.
There you have it. Cleveland looked like the best team in the league for stretches this year. Remember though, a less talented, less experienced Hawks team pushed a more complete and equally dominate Boston squad to seven last year.
Sure Cleveland has the MVP. Sure Mo Williams gave Atlanta fits this season. Yes Cleveland plays more consistent defense. That being said the Hawks aren’t afraid and they’ll bring the fight.
Sometimes not being afraid only hastens the knockout blow. Other times it makes for an epic battle.
Cavs in 7.
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