Why the Orlando Magic will win game 2 of the NBA Finals
The Orlando Magic were beaten by the Los Angeles Lakers in game one of the NBA Finals. It wasn’t just another loss because we are now in the Finals and every thing counts. Both teams have worked so hard this year that you wouldn’t want to give your opponent even the slightest chance of getting a win. That is what the Lakers did in game one but I’m doubting that it will happen in game 2. I like Orlando’s chances of winning game two even if it’s not in their home court and even if the odds are against them. Here’s why:
The resiliency of the Magic: They’ve proven that against tough teams in the playoffs they were going to come back and win the series. And there were times in games that they were able to come back from large deficits. The Magic were just nervous in game 1 and Kobe Bryant was hot and his game was infectious to his teammates. But I think the Magic will settle down and play their game and force game two to become a closer match, which will set them give them a chance to win unlike another blowout.
The leadership of Dwight Howard: He has shown that he can be that type of leader. Someone who will voice out when needed to let his coach and the other players know that he wants the ball. They need him to settle the whole team and of course use his inside presence to free up some space in the perimeter for Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu to create. The Lakers’ were focused especially on the defensive end that forced the Magic to take hurried shots. It is important that Howard doesn’t get into foul trouble early.
The defense of the Magic: I’m pretty sure they still won’t have an answer for Kobe Bryant, who torched them for 40 points in game 1, that’s why they will have to concentrate in stopping or limiting the other Lakers. I believe they will be able to do this and give themselves a chance for a win.
The maturity of Rafer Alston: With Jameer Nelson back in the lineup that led to Rafer Alston sitting down the whole second quarter the Magic guard seemed to lose his rhythm. Magic coach Stan Van Gundy realized this and it was his mistake and he won’t do this anymore. The Magic looked good in the first 1 1/2 quarters and if they can strike a balance between the two guards they will be good. I think they can do this as Alston didn’t complain or won’t talk to Van Gundy about this as he realized this is no time for whining.
The hot shooting of Rashard and Hedo: They combined for 5-21 shooting and it won’t surprise if they get out of their slump quick. These guys are scorers and even if the Lakers play tough D, they will score. They were just rattled in the first game but once they get the excitement of playing in the NBA Finals out of their system soon, they will be back to their old ways. How soon is soon? Game 2.
As much as I am pretty confident about it, there’s still a chance that Kobe just explodes again and just destroy this post of mine and take away the small amount of money I put in Orlando for game 2 (just to show that I really believe). What do you guys think?
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