The Post Up: Bittersweet
The regular season comes to a close as Dallas continues to impress.
By: Holly MacKenzie
First Round Match Ups
Eastern Conference
(1) Boston 66-16
(8) Atlanta 37-45
(2) Detroit 59-23
(7)Philadelphia 40-42
(3) Orlando 52-30
(6) Toronto 41-41
(4) Cleveland 45-37
(5) Washington 43-39
Western Conference
(1) LA Lakers 57-25
(8) Denver 50-32
(2) New Orleans 56-26
(7) Dallas 51-31
(3) San Antonio 56-26
(6) Phoenix 55-27
(4) Utah 54-28
(5) Houston 55-27
As I sit down to write this final edition of the Post Up, even the playoffs cannot make me smile. I just need the games to start because there is going to be one big void without our daily recaps here. I’ve been sitting down, staring at the tv, in a bit of a trance with this blank word document staring back at me. Great.
How do I sum up what this year, this column, opportunity and people have meant to me? I know, I’ll try to keep it short so we can get to talking about the playoffs. I’ve done a whole lot of recapping this season, so I feel I’m justified to do this my way, one last time. If you want the NBA goods, keep it scrolling.
From an essay for a writing class I took in freshman year. Note: this is the piece you are getting because the essay I wrote about Lang is way too gushy to ever see the light of day or internet.
“I write constantly. I write about very diverse topics, but always passionately. The ultimate dream would be to have my own daily/weekly basketball column much like that of Lang Whitaker’s “The Links”. www.slamonline.com/links is a daily stop of mine and to have a forum where I could share my thoughts about the game would be the greatest gift of all. I know that starting out this will not be possible, but I do believe that eventually I will earn it, even if I do not have anyone reading for the first few years.”
Well, thanks to Lang, Sam, Ben and Susan I got to start out with a daily column. I’ve been fulfilling my dreams in these past eight months and I have been building bigger ones with each passing day.
To Lang, thank you for taking the time to read that ridiculous email and for ignoring typo’s that were born out of my fingers tapping the keyboard too quickly because I was terrified you would have chosen your applicants before I managed to get my email in to you.
To Sam, thank you for doing everything that you do, and for putting up with my questions, comments and Lakers love every day of your life (At least Monday-Friday).
Ben, thank you for letting me believe that before long I will make the jump from web-to-print, but if you need someone for the site, you know where to find me.
Susan, thank you for being you! For putting up with frantic emails about press passes and credentials and for always soothing my nerves and being so damn nice while doing it.
To all of the SLAM writers, you inspire and influence me daily. Always have and always will. I will be flooding your articles with comments, so brace yourselves. The best thing about this site and magazine is that the writers are all so fantastically different with one thread that ties them all together. That thread is passion for the game. There is no other basketball magazine out there that captures and encompasses all that SLAM does. It makes me beyond proud to be a small part of this.
I guess my biggest thank you goes to all of the regular readers and commenter’s who have so graciously jumped on board with the Post Up and helped to turn it into a home. These recaps have been so much fun to write and they truly have been a blessing for me, so thanks for making this experience so amazing.
To the people who gave me love immediately and to the boys that hung back to see if I proved worthy, thanks for taking the time to read everyday, for commenting and for being a part of what the Post Up is. If SLAM is the best basketball site on the net (it is), the Post Up is like the Lounge where everyone gets to hang out and talk about games that they stayed up too late watching. As choked as I am to hand it over, I will still be around commenting my little heart away. I’m even thinking of changing my name. Maybe not, but if you see a username pertaining to “Jax” in any way, shape or form, you know it’s probably me.
These eight months have taught me that any dream is within reach if you aim highly enough. From the first recap to hanging out in the Lakers locker room, I have this entire experience etched in my heart so I won’t forget a second. Thank you.
One little announcement, before we move to the NBA. Over the offseason I will be writing a weekly column for Hardwood Paroxysm. It’ll be every Wednesday and sounds like it should be fun. After you’ve checked out SLAM, stop by and check me out over there.
Whew. Okay, NBA…. The regular season is over and the biggest game of the night was the Utah/San Antonio contest where the Jazz needed to fight for homecourt advantage in the first round. Of course, being in San Antonio they got blown out and will face Houston, on the road.
Mehmet got a little feisty at the end of that game and smoked Oberto in the face.
Brian Skinner and Jarrett Jack were both ejected from the Suns/Blazers game last night and they don’t know why. I don’t know either, to be honest. If you saw the game, what are your thoughts?
The shot clocks went dead momentarily in the Chicago/Toronto game last night. It was a good thing there was not anything riding on that contest because their solution was to have the Bulls announcer call out the shot clock.
Congratulations to Ricky Davis for surviving all 82 games in Miami this season. They were not pretty, he was not overly impressive and he took criticism from Shaq along the way, but I’m betting he will enjoy the vacation.
Kevin Durant finished off his rookie season by dropping in 42 against the Warriors in a win last night.
Washington/Cleveland series, who’ve you got? I’m going with the Wizards because I want them to win so badly. I just love Caron, Gil, Antawn and DeShawn. They are crazy and so much fun to watch. It’s going to be intense.
As a Laker fan, I think I’m happy that we face the Nuggets rather than the Mavs. I’m not going to pretend that Iverson and Melo don’t scare me, but the Mavericks just look way too confident right now. New Orleans is going to have their hands full.
San Antonio/Phoenix is going to be one wild first round series. Let’s see how man minutes Bowen lasts without getting called for a flagrant or before someone on the Suns complains to the officials about him. Damn Spurs have been toying with us these past few weeks, looking like they’ve lost a step then coming out and torching the Jazz.
It is going to be fun, guys. I can’t believe the playoffs are here. Let’s go Lakers.
San Antonio 109 Utah 80
With the Jazz needing a win to secure homecourt in the opening round of the playoffs they came to San Antonio focused. Once the game tipped off, that focus went completely out the window and the Spurs ran the Jazz out of the gym. Leading 30-21 at the end of the first quarter, the Spurs had blown the game open by halftime thanks to a 35-18 second quarter that had them leading 65-39 at the break. While the Jazz were able to stay even with San Antonio in the second half of the game they were completely unable to cut the lead and as a result will now face Houston on the road for the first round. The opening round series for the Spurs will be against the Suns. Tony Parker had 24 points and 12 assists for the Spurs as Tim Duncan had 14 and 11, as Manu Ginobili and Michael Finley each scored 12. CJ Miles scored 12 points off of the bench for Utah while Mehmet Okur scored 11 points and Carlos Boozer added 8 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.
Dallas 111 New Orleans 98
With the Dallas Mavericks able to control who their first round opponent would be depending on whether they won or lost against the Hornets, they found a way to win. With that win comes a series with the same Hornets as the Mavs retain possession of the seventh spot in the West. While the Hornets led by two at the break, Dallas outscored New Orleans 35-28 in the third to take control as Jason Kidd got rolling and finished with his 100th career triple-double, also his first as a Maverick. Jason Terry got involved in the run as well, ringing off 13 of his 30 during the 32-8 run that spanned the third and fourth quarters. While the Hornets would get within four in the final quarter, Dallas kept their composure and calmly extended their lead back into double figures to take the lead and get inside the head of their opponents. Kidd finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. Terry scored 30 points off of the bench, Josh Howard had 19 points and Brandon Bass had 13 points and 12 rebounds. Chris Paul had 20 points and 10 assists for the Hornets as David West scored 26 points, Peja Stojakovic had 17 points and Bonzi Wells added 16 off of the bench.
Houston 93 LA Clippers 75
With the Jazz losing to the Spurs the Rockets could gain homecourt in the first round with a win against the Clippers, despite being the lower seed in the series match up. Knowing how horrible the Jazz are on the road, this was a golden opportunity for the Rockets and they did not let it slip by, downing the Clippers 93-75. Houston didn’t waste any time setting the tone in the game, leading 35-17 at the end of the first quarter, and using that lead to sustain them the rest of the way through as the Clippers could not play catch up and never led in the contest. While Houston led by as many as 25 points in the game, the Clippers got within 10 points in the third, but the Rockets responded quickly and extended the lead. Luis Scola finished with 22 points and 10 rebounds for Houston while Bobby Jackson scored 15 points and Tracy McGrady added 11 assists. Elton Brand had 18 points and 12 rebounds for LA, Josh Powell had a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double and Corey Maggette scored 22 points off of the bench.
619 Responses to “The Post Up: Bittersweet”
Apr.17 at 9:37 am
H to the izzo says:
“You’re gonna be the death of me..”
Apr.17 at 9:39 am
Eboy says:
This is a bittersweet day.
Apr.17 at 9:40 am
Eboy says:
Why is izzo not orange?
Apr.17 at 9:41 am
Eboy says:
While it is going to be the best series in the first round, maybe in the entire playoffs, seing Phoenix or the Spurs go out in the first round sucks just because of the matchups that could have developed in the later rounds.
Apr.17 at 9:42 am
Ryne Nelson says:
Holly, congrats on landing the column at HP! I’ll be looking forward to your stuff in the summer!
Apr.17 at 9:42 am
hursty says:
ah holly….. I wish you well and really appreciate all youve done in making my days in Aus. more tolerable due to the lack of interest here. Best wishes.
Apr.17 at 9:42 am
Eboy says:
Holly, I know Phil will have them ready and Kobe will play out of his mind, but I really can’t shake the image of the series being way more difficult than it probably should be. We all know AI takes that underdog role to heart.
Apr.17 at 9:43 am
H to the izzo says:
I’m having speed problems with my computer,and for some reason,not putting in the link helps.The most fun series to me will be Lakers/Nuggets and I’ll be previewing it!
Apr.17 at 9:44 am
Ryne Nelson says:
@Eboy - It doesn’t matter what round they’re playing, Phoenix/San Antonio will be excellent. There still will be many more great matchups in the following rounds. I’d love to watch any pairing of the Western Conference teams.
Apr.17 at 9:45 am
Cheryl says:
Holly, thank YOU so much for being my guide to the nights’ games that I often missed cuz I was too upset with my beloved Heat. I will follow your columns wherever they lead you, so be sure to keep us informed. And if next year, you want another “hook up” like this one, just let me know–you have the email. And next time, I’ll go to the post office FIRST!!
Apr.17 at 9:46 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Durant sure was playing for ROY huh?
Apr.17 at 9:49 am
peteb80 says:
You did a great job, Holly! Thank you!
Apr.17 at 9:51 am
Ryne Nelson says:
@Lz - Nah, Durant had it locked up a couple weeks ago. What player’s game would you say is Durant’s best-case-scenario when his NBA game fully develops?
Apr.17 at 9:52 am
hursty says:
yeh holly everyone has mad love for you and respect you dedication. I’ll def. read your stuff on HP, even though I dont know you like some of the others, it feels like over the last year of the NBA season its like as you said a big old loungeroom. Everyone knows stuff about stuff
Apr.17 at 9:52 am
Cheryl says:
That Spurs/Suns series is gonna be off the charts. Especially if Timmy and the gang play with the intensity they showed last night. So, E, did I hear right that Big Shot Rob will not be on the playoff roster?? Please tell me I heard wrong. And Lakers/Nuggets will be a fun one to watch. I can’t believe I’ll be pulling for the Lakeshow!
Apr.17 at 9:52 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
THANK YOU HOLLY for the daily fixture - made following the NBA so easy and fun.
I’m with Eboy Lakers will have trouble with Nuggs - AI knows he doesn’t have many years left to win that ellusive (s?) championship, if Nuggs get their offensive game going they can trouble anybody.
Apr.17 at 9:54 am
hursty says:
he seems to love Tmac and his oversized guard play.
Apr.17 at 9:54 am
Cheryl says:
I gotta go, but I’ll check in from time to time today, Miss Holly. You keep in touch, girlfriend.
Apr.17 at 9:54 am
Eboy says:
A true fan, Cliff T/Eboy.
I guess I’ll get it out of the way early.
Holly, I just want to thank you for your hard work and positive feelings that you’ve put out each day of the season. You made a season of sh*t for the Heat bearable as I was able to be distraced by the other going’s on in the league through your words and The Post Up brought me closer together to my SLAM “fam” that had never been common before you allowed us to just be us. I will miss you next season and this recap space just won’t have the same panache without your Laker love and your raw passion for guys like Stephen Jackson, Perfect Lashes and Raja Bell, dude’s who aren’t really superstars but seem much more larger than life with your words behind them. I know I speak for all the commentors that The Post Up was the place to be to discuss ball, music, life, whatever, and while sometimes it went a tad awry, our respect and love for you never wavered. I’ll be waiting on you to put some other things up on the site and still be waiting for that first printed piece to garner your name. If I could have had a little sister who was crazy about basketball, I would have only wanted it to be you.
Apr.17 at 9:54 am
Joel O's says:
Well, congrats on a great run, Holly. Your column’s made a daily visit to nba.com or Yahoo Sports redundant to me, since they lack the insight, commentary and interesting discussion that goes on here every day.
Apr.17 at 9:55 am
Rasheedionics says:
Too bad Hawks made the playoffs, otherwise Lakers should sign Tyrone Lue for the series against Nuggets.
Apr.17 at 9:56 am
Cub Buenning says:
Holly, it’s on! I will surely be in attendance for games 3 and 4 (with full reports) as I would assume that you and I will be handling this series.
I would not sleep on the Nuggets. Phil, Kobe, and Fish’s experience and jewelry collection scares me, though, to be sure.
Congrats on the Post!
I HATE THE SCHEDULE! 8-10 days in between games?!?! My game 3 in Denver isn’t until June, i believe….
Apr.17 at 9:57 am
Ben Osborne says:
Holly is one gracious writer. We are lucky to have her.
Apr.17 at 9:57 am
Ben Osborne says:
Utah-Houston again? Yuck.
Apr.17 at 9:59 am
H to the izzo says:
Cub:Gimme the low-down on the Nuggets chances.
Also,it’s been said already but Holly made the Post up what it was.
Apr.17 at 9:59 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Ryne; unfortunately I haven’t been following the NBA to closely since the 8 of April and until today (what is it with women not understanding the necessity of me sitting in front of the computer for a couple hours a day, when on vacation?) so I was still under the impression that it was Al who was the frontrunner for ROY.
Durant’s game; maybe something like a bigger, better, meaner more clutch T-Mac. Less passing and injuries but more boards, points and gamewinners.
Apr.17 at 9:59 am
hursty says:
yeh 2001 finals punchups between the little dudes.
Apr.17 at 10:00 am
Cub Buenning says:
Boss, as someone who was in HTown for that series last year and followed it with a close eye, why the hate? Mark it down, UTAH in a pasting. The only lopsided series in my estimation.
Apr.17 at 10:03 am
Eboy says:
I agree, Cub, I think the Jazz kill them methodically.
Apr.17 at 10:03 am
Sam Rubenstein says:
It’s the final post-up deneneh de de deneneneneh! Get it? Like the final countdown? Nevermind. Great work all season Holly! Whoever does this next season you have big shoes to fill.
Apr.17 at 10:03 am
hursty says:
durant averaged like 3.5 boards a game. tmac averages almost 7
Apr.17 at 10:04 am
Cub Buenning says:
H, i gotta like their chances over a 7-game series. They have some side motivation and you must ignore the numeral eight next to their name.
50 wins. Great one-two punch. Improving half-court game and despite some sloppy losses late, they have been a better overall team since March.
Melo’s DUI could go either way, motivation or distraction? I tend to side with the former.
Yes, they played horribly against the Lakers this year, but I put little stock in those, as the rosters were different in many of those games and the playoffs are different (just ask the Spurs.) The Lakers’ style of play actually suits the Nuggets just fine.
Apr.17 at 10:05 am
hursty says:
lay off the hatorade. please. at least give RV, nick and myself some glimmer of hope.
Apr.17 at 10:07 am
Cub Buenning says:
Sam, sweet Europe reference. My favorite Swedish rock band….
Apr.17 at 10:07 am
Charles Barkley says:
Hey ya’ll. I think it’s turrible that Ms. Holly is losing the Post Up. I guess we could say she’s Gone Fishin’, but it would have to be ice fishing up in Canada. Good luck, girl.
Apr.17 at 10:07 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Jazz will for sure prevail over Rockets, will be interesting to see the Boozer-Scola match-up. They are just so different in playing the same position. Deron will own Rafer. Kirilenko will hound T-Mac, and Yao will be muttering and dreaming about Beijing.
Apr.17 at 10:08 am
Eboy says:
I actually prefer Yngwie Malmsteen.
Apr.17 at 10:09 am
H to the izzo says:
Cub,thanks.I’ll be stealing all of your ideas.
Apr.17 at 10:09 am
BETCATS says:
Holly!!
Apr.17 at 10:10 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Hursty; Durant is not the finished product yet. The only think he was asked to do this season was fire away, as he matures, fills out, and they soround him with better players his boards will soar IMO. Didn’t you see him board in college?
Apr.17 at 10:10 am
BETCATS says:
!
Apr.17 at 10:11 am
hursty says:
x factors will obviously be the role players. Who does battier play? smaller, quicker Williams or bigger, stonger Boozer? Kirilenko wont do sh!t offensively.
Apr.17 at 10:12 am
BETCATS says:
Holly, this was a great Post Up. It really brought a tear to my eye (well not really but it was very nice and plesant to read) and your presence will be missed by me. Also, even though you didnt include the Bobcats win over Philly last night, i think this is the best piece yet. Thanks for the Post up. Now playoffs. Playoffs!!!! PHONIEX!!!!
Apr.17 at 10:13 am
hursty says:
yes. against guys 5 inches shorter than him. Now hes playing against guys as big, quick and as much skill as he has. He’ll be ok. 42 points is flat out gettin it done.
Apr.17 at 10:13 am
Bill Walton says:
This is the lowest point in human history and the exeburance that is going to be lost is going to be sorely missed. I can only hope that through the power of Red Auerbach’s spirit that we can be blessed with someone with 1/10th of Ms. MacKenzie’s classiness and positivity.
Apr.17 at 10:14 am
hursty says:
noyyyce spelling bet.
Apr.17 at 10:14 am
hursty says:
44+
Apr.17 at 10:15 am
H to the izzo says:
Also,Cub.I think that the Nuggets’ key will be Melo,depending on how he plays post DUI.The Lakers don’t really have anyone to guard him,Lamar is too slow,as is Pau and Vlad.Kobe’s too valuable and the rest are too small.Maybe Ira Newble can body him up for a while but having Ira Newble on the floor is detramental to offense.It will be interesting.
Apr.17 at 10:16 am
Eboy says:
Cavs is 6. Lebron averages 34, 9 and 9.
Apr.17 at 10:16 am
Toney Blare says:
Great job, Holly.
Apr.17 at 10:17 am
hursty says:
nuggets cant stay out of trouble. Remember last seasons playoffs with JR smith? that was ugly.
Apr.17 at 10:19 am
hursty says:
49. Lets get it going if we want that 1000.
Apr.17 at 10:20 am
hursty says:
50
Apr.17 at 10:20 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Hursty; True, off course NBA players have more length, strength etc. Just think that when he gets stronger he’ll be a nice presence on the boards. He has a knack for getting them IMO, no matter how weak he was on them this year. I think he’ll be way better than ok. Leading scorer in the L at some point for sure (unless LeBron decides to Michaelize that title).
Apr.17 at 10:20 am
hursty says:
fine. 51
Apr.17 at 10:20 am
Ryne Nelson says:
Eboy, Cleveland/Boston in the second round…How many games do you think it will go?
Apr.17 at 10:20 am
Eboy says:
If the Nugs steal game 1 or game 2, the upset will be in the works.
Apr.17 at 10:21 am
H to the izzo says:
Pistons in 2.
Apr.17 at 10:21 am
TADOne says:
“If SLAM is the best basketball site on the net (it is), the Post Up is like the Lounge where everyone gets to hang out and talk about games that they stayed up too late watching.”
Yes, and yes. Perfect description, Ms. Holly. Longer version of a bittersweet goodbye on the way.
Apr.17 at 10:21 am
BETCATS says:
Wizards in 8 agianst the Cavs then they get TKOed by the Magic in 4 games. Boston goes on to win the East and then meet Phoneix (who wins the west) in a battle of epic proportions (and even more epic Phoniex Cheerleader getting abortions 3 months after Game 6)
Apr.17 at 10:22 am
Eboy says:
Well, it should be no more than 5, Rynocerous, but I think Lebron will show out for one huge game and push it to six.
Apr.17 at 10:23 am
BETCATS says:
Eboy, you are forgetting the fact that a man named Kobe, or mamba, or Kobeastador will never let that happened. And Pau too.
Apr.17 at 10:24 am
Eboy says:
I’d give Philly one game against the Pistons.
Apr.17 at 10:24 am
hursty says:
haha true. Tmac just playd like Gervin as a younger dude with the arms and not much hair.
Apr.17 at 10:25 am
hursty says:
im changin my name. E- youll like it.
Apr.17 at 10:26 am
Michael Tillery says:
Go get that fire starchild! Love what you do here. Your consistency will take you higher and higher. Good luck over at HP.
Apr.17 at 10:26 am
Eboy says:
Pau will be fighting for all he’s worth just to stay afloat, BET. Camby and Nene will wear his flopping ass down. LO needs to show out huge to make the series manageble.
Apr.17 at 10:26 am
Bryan says:
I’m not gonna get all emo on everyone..Just saying you will be missed Holly …no other column caught on and made us talk to each other as much as this one did and it can’t be replaced. This is probably my only appearance today as I’m on my way out the door..In short it’s been a pleasure and don’t lose me on myspace.
Apr.17 at 10:27 am
Eboy says:
hursty, if it has to do with kangaroos or koalas I’ll be thrilled.
Apr.17 at 10:27 am
BETCATS says:
This is something i will not get an answer on but did anyone see that Raymond Felton Fade Away and the foul, he got fouled (and slammed to the floor) by 3 different 76ers and still MADE the shot
Apr.17 at 10:27 am
hursty says:
thats for starters. Look at the pic on the back-Kangaroos!!!
Apr.17 at 10:28 am
Eboy says:
Non-emo fu*ker. He came through like a one pump chump.
Apr.17 at 10:28 am
Candice says:
Cub I think another key factor is Nene. He never played in the games against the Lakers.
Apr.17 at 10:29 am
BETCATS says:
NBA.com looks different. Anyway Eboy, i dont know if that will happen. Pau Gasol Offense > Camby Defence.
Apr.17 at 10:29 am
hursty says:
no BET but it sounds nasty.
Apr.17 at 10:31 am
Eboy says:
After the Heat beat up on the Hawks last night I can’t imagine the Celtics not winning wvery game by 25 plus. The Hawks are so horrible.
Apr.17 at 10:31 am
Jumpin (Roo hops) Jack says:
there. Now yall now my first name.
Apr.17 at 10:32 am
Joel O's says:
I think the Wizards would have had a good chance against the Cavs if they had just shut up and took them on, but now that they’ve spent the last week or so calling Lebron out, sore back or no, Lebron’s probably gonna murder Deshawn Stevenson and abuse the Wizards.
Apr.17 at 10:32 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
All you guys so sure Wizards will beat Cavs. Don’t forget last years Pistons series, if LeBron can beat them he sure as he!l can beat Wizs. I’ve been saying it for a long time; really think that he has something cooking for this playoffs. Won’t be enough against Boston or maybe the Pistons, but he’s taking the Wizs that’s for sure.
Apr.17 at 10:32 am
BETCATS says:
Hursty, nobody cairs of you change your name.
Apr.17 at 10:32 am
Jumpin (Roo hops) Jack says:
moderation
Apr.17 at 10:33 am
Joel O's says:
Well, Eboy, the Hawks aren’t that bad, they’re just… horrifyingly inconsistent. If they get hot they might just steal a game against Boston, but they aren’t going past 5 games.
Apr.17 at 10:33 am
Eboy says:
BET, Kmart Camby Nene Najera>Gasol Turiaf ?
Apr.17 at 10:33 am
BETCATS says:
go to NBA.com it is #3 on the Top Ten. the Top 2 are a KG Goaltend and a Half Court shot
Apr.17 at 10:33 am
Myles Brown says:
If Holly had a yearbook I’d sign it. Good stuff all year, hope everyone appreciates your dedication. And hope to see you around these parts come playoff time.
Apr.17 at 10:34 am
Hursty says:
apparently moderation is bad.
Apr.17 at 10:34 am
BETCATS says:
No Eboy, do not get it twisted. The only constant one of the ones you named is Camby, Gasol and Turiaf always do what they do and never let up. Stop and THINK
Apr.17 at 10:34 am
Eboy says:
They made the playoffs at 8 games under .500 Joel, that constitutes being horrible.
Apr.17 at 10:35 am
Eboy says:
Thinking is overrated.
Apr.17 at 10:35 am
Hursty says:
anyways, it was a kangaroo/ koala name that looses all meaning after Bet. No arguing today dude
Apr.17 at 10:36 am
BETCATS says:
it is hursty, it is
Apr.17 at 10:36 am
Eboy says:
New Orleans will also be gone in the second round, so two of the top three teams will be out before the conference finals.
Apr.17 at 10:37 am
BETCATS says:
Eboyism is overrated
Apr.17 at 10:38 am
BETCATS says:
Dallas is gonna kiss their @$$es good bye
Apr.17 at 10:38 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
What about the Dwight-Bosh matchup, thoughts? Hawks are poor.
Apr.17 at 10:39 am
Joel O's says:
True, that. The Dallas-Nawlins series is gonna be interesting, what with the Mavs picking up momentum like that. They were a joke of a 1st seed last year, but this season they’re one heck of a 7th seed to have to face.
Apr.17 at 10:39 am
Eboy says:
The Mavs/Hornets series will go the distance.
Apr.17 at 10:40 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
How I would love to see AI and co. eliminate Kobe. Who will guard AI? Fisher is to slow, Farmar will get massacred.
Apr.17 at 10:40 am
Hursty says:
Rip hamilton looks like tmac. the add is so…eery.
Apr.17 at 10:41 am
BETCATS says:
Upseted to Upsetters? I dont think so! The Mavericks may fight, but at the end of the day Chris Paul will make Jason Kidd need to buy a wheel chair just to attempt to keep up.
Apr.17 at 10:42 am
Kobe Bryant says:
I can only thank Holly for being down for me all season and keeping the dogs off me. LOL. I remember you from the Raptors game and wish you all the best. Ciao bella.
Apr.17 at 10:42 am
BETCATS says:
Lz- the Dwight/Bosh matchup could be good depending on how Bosh feels about his team.
Apr.17 at 10:42 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Mavs in 7. Paul is better, but Kidd in a series is tough even for him. Ason is wise and will adjust to his play.
Apr.17 at 10:43 am
Eboy says:
LZ, I doubt it will happen, but it would be intriguing.
Apr.17 at 10:44 am
Hursty says:
bosh will get b!tched. Dude will play on ‘Shard Lewis or Hedo. both 6-10 or so. nullify each other out I reckon. Frees dwight up to wreck havoc.
Apr.17 at 10:44 am
BETCATS says:
i am not going to argue at risk of destroying you Lz
Apr.17 at 10:45 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
BETS is there something going on with Bosh and the Raps? I repeat; I haven’t been around NBA news last 9 days.
Apr.17 at 10:46 am
Eboy says:
Orlando/Toronto promises to be the most boring matchup of the first round.
Apr.17 at 10:46 am
BETCATS says:
Hursty, was that a immpersonation i smell on the sent of your breath (it was hard to smell over the Koola leaves but i can do it), if it was tell the young’n to hide in your pouch because i have some mean things to say. Meanie mean things. Or i could just let it go.
Apr.17 at 10:46 am
Hursty says:
never argue with a billionaire school child.
Apr.17 at 10:47 am
BETCATS says:
well Lz, mutoni posted a link to an article quoting Bosh that basically said that he cannot trust his teamates. I guess you could call that ’something going on’ or you could call it ‘nothing’. Either way it is something that you can call something so i guess it is.
Apr.17 at 10:48 am
BETCATS says:
No Eboy, Phoniex/San Antonio is.
Apr.17 at 10:49 am
Cub Buenning says:
BET, yeah, Najera’s effort is real inconsistent, you never know what he is going to give you.
Apr.17 at 10:49 am
Holly MacKenzie says:
thanks to each and every one of you for your kind words and for letting the Post Up become a part of your daily routines. Yay for SLAM and the playoffs. Both are as sweet as heaven to me.
Apr.17 at 10:50 am
H to the izzo says:
BET:If you’re an idiot,yes.
Apr.17 at 10:50 am
BETCATS says:
some nights he explodes, and other he is sleeping on the bench like a hobo in the park, but Cub, at least your boys got in. And another thing Cub, Lebron would have gone to Ohio State not Duke.
Apr.17 at 10:51 am
Eboy says:
BET, you are shot out.
Apr.17 at 10:51 am
Hursty says:
what was that in reference to 10:46 bet?
Apr.17 at 10:51 am
Jer Boi says:
the post up has alwaysss been good goood workkk
Apr.17 at 10:51 am
BETCATS says:
or if you are a izzo. no
Apr.17 at 10:51 am
BETCATS says:
Hursty says:
bosh will get b!tched. Dude will play on ‘Shard Lewis or Hedo. both 6-10 or so. nullify each other out I reckon. Frees dwight up to wreck havoc.
Apr.17 at 10:52 am
H to the izzo says:
Yay!
Apr.17 at 10:53 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Destroying me BETS? Not happening. If Bosh’s not guarding Dwight who will then? Rasho - too slow. Eboy; Paul is going to have a strong series no matter what. But if Jason decides to post him up for 7 games, he’ll have some trouble, and remember they beat them last night with Dirk bringing his F-game. The series will go down the wire, but I think Mavs have the edge, hope I’m wrong though.
Apr.17 at 10:54 am
Lang Whitaker says:
Thanks, Holly!
Apr.17 at 10:56 am
Hursty says:
Dwight would annihilate Bosh when both play centre at some stage. when bosh=4 howard =5, i dunno. If Bosh plays at the 5 against howard, all his adv. are taken away from him. Not like hes gonna go all Tim duncan on him on the low block. hes 220. howard is 265-70.
Apr.17 at 10:57 am
Eboy says:
This
Apr.17 at 10:57 am
Eboy says:
comment
Apr.17 at 10:57 am
Eboy says:
count
Apr.17 at 10:58 am
Eboy says:
is
Apr.17 at 10:58 am
Eboy says:
not
Apr.17 at 10:58 am
H to the izzo says:
redundant.
Apr.17 at 10:58 am
Eboy says:
building
Apr.17 at 10:58 am
Hursty says:
hi
Apr.17 at 10:59 am
Eboy says:
like
Apr.17 at 10:59 am
Eboy says:
it
Apr.17 at 10:59 am
Hursty says:
small words
Apr.17 at 10:59 am
Eboy says:
should
Apr.17 at 11:00 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Agree Hursty - down low Dwight will bully Bosh, but Bosh can stick the jumper - if he draws Dwight away from the basket it will open up for drives (Hedo and Rashard aren’t exactly intimidating), only problem being Raps don’t really have any slashers.
Apr.17 at 11:00 am
Hursty says:
slowly e.
Apr.17 at 11:00 am
Eboy says:
Not to sound racist, but I hate black izzo.
Apr.17 at 11:00 am
Hursty says:
bet= my other brother from another mother.
Apr.17 at 11:01 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
That’s just annoying Eboy.
Apr.17 at 11:02 am
Hursty says:
moon is not aggressive. Bosh can be ok from around 14-18 feet no doubt, but howard has the length, athleticism and strength to overcome that shooting touch.
Apr.17 at 11:02 am
Tariq says:
Holly, great job every day. Even your crazy sleeping habits were a plus, since they enabled me to read something fresh fairly early, while everybody else was REMing. Honestly, who’s still sleeping at 0800 GMT?!
Apr.17 at 11:02 am
Hursty says:
so similair but totally fuking different.
Apr.17 at 11:03 am
Hursty says:
would you prefer him as an oriental person?
Apr.17 at 11:03 am
Hursty says:
TARIQ!
Apr.17 at 11:04 am
Hursty says:
yellow?
Apr.17 at 11:04 am
Eboy says:
Orange is cool.
Apr.17 at 11:04 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
I concur Hursty. Is it me or are Dwight’s arms kinda like Kevin Willis’?
Apr.17 at 11:04 am
Hursty says:
149
Apr.17 at 11:05 am
Tariq says:
Hey Hursty. Nice to see you capitalized.
Apr.17 at 11:05 am
t-rocc says:
well done all season, Holly - best of luck to you moving forward. for now, kick back and enjoy the playoffs!
Apr.17 at 11:05 am
Eboy says:
Tariq is a fu*ker. Are you back home yet, or are you still in China?
Apr.17 at 11:05 am
Hursty says:
150
Apr.17 at 11:06 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Thick and ripped but seems short.
Apr.17 at 11:06 am
Tariq says:
Hong Kong, Eboy.
Apr.17 at 11:07 am
Joel O's says:
Well, the Raps and the Magic have pretty similar formulas. Big guy + jump shooting softies + decent backcourt. But when it comes to crunch time I’d rather have my big guy murdering people down low than stepping out to take a wispy jumper, so Orlando’s probably gonna win it in 6 nondescript games.
Apr.17 at 11:07 am
Tariq says:
If Holly isn’t part of the inevitable Champagne shower at Staples come June, it will all been have been for naught. And by “all” I mean Western civilization.
Apr.17 at 11:08 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Maybe it’s just the thickness.. How is China? I heard dirty, stressing, and rude..
Apr.17 at 11:09 am
Richie says:
Thanks Holly, i never commented much but kept coming back for your recaps and commentary. Will definitely check your words at your new spot, best of luck!
Apr.17 at 11:10 am
Eboy says:
Hong Kong? You said it’s all neon signs and stuff, right? Kind of like the Speed Racer movie?
Apr.17 at 11:10 am
Tariq says:
Joel: “nondescript” is the best adjective to describe that entire series. Well, that and “insipid”. “Sh*tty” works also.
Apr.17 at 11:10 am
Hursty says:
dude, long time no talk. What is this China business!!!????
Apr.17 at 11:11 am
TADOne says:
Ok, I lied about the long eulogy I was going to write to the Post Up. Work just won’t cooperate. But anyways Holly, this is not goodbye, this is a door closing and another opening. You will be missed. But I know for a fact you will be in print soon enough (hopefully, preferably, in Slam). I will definitely follow your work where ever it takes you. Best of luck to your future, young lady.
Apr.17 at 11:12 am
Tariq says:
China is like Erick Dampier’s jumper. Hong Kong is like Kobe Bryant’s wife, aesthetically speaking.
Apr.17 at 11:12 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Start commenting Richie, we need a guy with named Richie in the posse. That Speed Racer movie looks to be maybe the wackest production since MIB 2.
Apr.17 at 11:13 am
TADOne says:
Ok, lets talk ball! C’s in 4, Pistons in 5, Magic in 6, Wiz in 7 (unless Bron is really pissed)
Apr.17 at 11:13 am
Hursty says:
(or is it cheaper?)
nope, its Hong Kong!?
missed you and your $10 fuel
Apr.17 at 11:14 am
Eboy says:
LZ, if you bad talk Iron Man, I will hunt you down.
Apr.17 at 11:15 am
Joel O's says:
I agree with you Tariq, even though the Chuck Swirsky in me cries and mourns the loss of the last two Raptors with the balls to win a playoff series, Mike James and Mo Pete. Hong Kong is the shiznit, honestly the most “alive” city I’ve ever been in, day or night.
Apr.17 at 11:15 am
Hursty says:
tad i agree with everything except for magic. they can sweep unless Ford goes nuts. I really think Howard is going to outscore, rebound and in general outplay bosh despite bosh having a 2007 Wizards Jamison-like 1st round exit campaign.
Apr.17 at 11:15 am
Eboy says:
TAD, I was with you right until the Cavs/Wiz matchup. I think you are selling short Lebrons singleminded dominace that he displayed last year against your boys who are 800 times better defensivley than the Wiz.
Apr.17 at 11:15 am
Tariq says:
Holly: before long you will be accomplish the following: 1- Be on Inside the NBA, preferably in the absence of Reginald Miller. 2- Have a vote on MVP. Hopefully you can use your vote on several point guards. 3- Achieve my own dream of winning a Latin Grammy for Best Dance Video, and thus enabling me to live vicariously through you. 4- Master the dark art of numbering whatever you want to say in order to make it more convincing/interesting.
Apr.17 at 11:16 am
Eboy says:
Anyone ever been to Tokyo?
Apr.17 at 11:17 am
Tariq says:
The Wiz have a shot, but I think LeBron will eat them alive.
Apr.17 at 11:17 am
Hursty says:
why is shaq on the homepage of slam?? in a miami jersey no less! and jumpman? wtf is this? 2005 redux?
Apr.17 at 11:18 am
Tariq says:
Joel: You ain’t kidding about Hong Kong. And as for the Raptors…eh…they’re just so vanilla and irrelevant.
Apr.17 at 11:18 am
Eboy says:
T, I really think if you put your mind to it, you COULD win the Latin Grammy for Best Dance Video. Just learn the merengue or the salsa and throw on a sombrero and you’ll be all good.
Apr.17 at 11:18 am
Hursty says:
haha
tariq please explain this dance video
Apr.17 at 11:19 am
Ryan Jones says:
I should’ve been thanked by name. Very disappointed.
Apr.17 at 11:19 am
Krishan says:
y’all can say goodbye to lebron in the first round. There is no way he’ll be able to carry that terrible team past caron’s wiz with a bum back.
Apr.17 at 11:19 am
H to the izzo says:
Tariq:You still have won that Grammy?
Apr.17 at 11:20 am
Tariq says:
Eboy: I will NEVER learn the merengue. I hate Real Madrid too much. Hope someone got that reference.
Apr.17 at 11:20 am
H to the izzo says:
haven’t won*
Apr.17 at 11:20 am
Hursty says:
spelling Izzo! tsk tsk
Apr.17 at 11:21 am
Tariq says:
Ryan:
And this after your much-vaunted concession!
Apr.17 at 11:21 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Eboy; I agree LeBron will be to much for Wiz, he be other levelish in this postseason. Never been to Tokyo, Asia is not so much my thing. But if we are talking nice cities, you guys should visit Buenos Aires - the place is absolutely beautifull, and vibrant + really really cheap, even when you get paid in US$.
Apr.17 at 11:22 am
Eboy says:
Ryan’s such a narcissit.
Apr.17 at 11:22 am
H to the izzo says:
tsk tsk indeed.Now I know how Kwame feels.
Apr.17 at 11:23 am
Tariq says:
izzo: Unfortunately, no I haven’t. I should have won in 2006 for “Lovin la Vida Guerrera” and again in 2007 for my crossover hit “Ti quero Arby’s”. But the Latin Grammys are all political.
Apr.17 at 11:24 am
Hursty says:
burn…
Apr.17 at 11:24 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Got it Tariq. Los Merengues are sh!t. In Spain only Barca exists.
Apr.17 at 11:24 am
Eboy says:
Did I mention that Michael Jeffrey Jordan is building a house about 10 miles from me? How perculiar.
Apr.17 at 11:25 am
Hursty says:
damn politics.
Apr.17 at 11:25 am
Tariq says:
LZ: My man/woman/creature-of-fluid-gender!
Apr.17 at 11:26 am
Hursty says:
that means stern is going to hell.
Apr.17 at 11:26 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Will this house have space for the kids or did Juanita also snatch them?
Apr.17 at 11:26 am
Eboy says:
or peculiar
Apr.17 at 11:26 am
Hursty says:
where is Bet?? wascally wabit of a koala
Apr.17 at 11:27 am
Tariq says:
Where is Holly? Is Cub still around? Will Cub and Holly be covering the LAker-Nugget series?
Apr.17 at 11:27 am
TADOne says:
I really think the Wiz can take down the Cavs. Regardless of LeBron, the rest of the Cavs just havne’t been playing good for about the last 20 or so games. Right now, the Wiz are peaking some and completely healthy. I still say Wiz in 7, but I reserve the right to take all of this back if Bron goes off for a 50 point average.
Apr.17 at 11:28 am
Hursty says:
i know know how vegemite and jelly tastes together.
Apr.17 at 11:28 am
Eboy says:
Two huge lots on a golf course, LZ. I’m sure it will have a guest wing for Oak though.
Apr.17 at 11:28 am
TADOne says:
Tariq: Yes, they will. Cub said he will actually be in the house for games 3 and 4 in Denver.
Apr.17 at 11:29 am
Eboy says:
“He just smiled and gave me a vegamite sandwich”
Apr.17 at 11:29 am
Hursty says:
cavs = 50% club since trade with a bad back for LeBron thrown in as well.
Apr.17 at 11:30 am
H to the izzo says:
Tariq:You’re right I lost faith after my gargantuan Latin jazz/hip hop crossover hit “Samba Pa T.I” failed to win.It’s all about who you know with that committee.
Apr.17 at 11:30 am
Hursty says:
whats that off Eboy?
Apr.17 at 11:30 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Tariq: Man, although feels kind of fluid today, yesterday was my Queens birthday, something that goes unnoticed back home. But when abroad my people uses it as an excuse to throw a big party focused around eating large quantities of pork and bottoming a horrible booze named “Snaps”. Followed by dancing and more strong drink.
Apr.17 at 11:31 am
Holly MacKenzie says:
I’m here, guys. A little sad.. hahaah Excited for the games to start though.
Apr.17 at 11:32 am
Hursty says:
its not jam or whatever you call it E. this is put with ice cream or sprinkles off of fairybread (you have that right?)
Apr.17 at 11:34 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Will the Oak-guest wing be placed close to Rodman’s guest-rubbercell?
Other news about Michael Jeffrey’s new domicil; He has recently hired Toni Kukoc as his personal waiter.
Apr.17 at 11:34 am
Hursty says:
so… hows the weather holly. last i checked on SBS it was 20 in toronto and 26 in Miami (in celcius). sound about right??
Apr.17 at 11:34 am
TADOne says:
Holly, are you doing predictions? If not, can we get yours?
Apr.17 at 11:35 am
Hursty says:
does it have a hyperbaric chamber?
Apr.17 at 11:36 am
Hursty says:
217
Apr.17 at 11:37 am
Hursty says:
218
Apr.17 at 11:37 am
Hursty says:
pick it up everyone 219
Apr.17 at 11:38 am
Joel O's says:
What TADOne brought up made me think of something: Lebron right now is kind of occupying that place in our consciousness that Kobe did over the last few years (with the Kwame/Smush Parker/Brian Cook version of the Lakers). He leads a mediocre team which can beat great teams (Detroit/Phoenix) IF Bron/Kob goes nuts and plays like a superhuman. But there’s also the chance Lebron will just be too passive, resulting in a bullcrap Cavs team and a forgettable series, like last year’s Cavs-Nets of which there probably wasn’t a single memorable moment… or the chance that Kobe will just act like a petulant brat and stop shooting entirely like he did in the 2nd half of that last playoff games against the Suns 2 years back. In other words, the Cavs CAN win it all, in the same way the 2006 Lakers COULDA beaten the Suns, but it all depends on whether the superstar shows up to work.
Apr.17 at 11:38 am
Hursty says:
220
Apr.17 at 11:38 am
Holly MacKenzie says:
I’m working on a preview right now, Tad. But… Predictions… EAST…. Boston in 4, Detroit in 5, Orlando in 5, Washington in 6. WEST….Lakers in 6, Dallas in 5, Houston in 6 (I just really want Mac to get out of the damn first round, so this is a sentimental pick). As for SA/PHX…. Damn SA threw me for a loop last night. If Amare can get his game face on, who knows. I want that one to go to 7.
Apr.17 at 11:39 am
Ryan Jones says:
Hey, everybody! Take a minute and come make fun of Indiana fans with me on Devin Ebanks’ diary. I have a feeling it’s gonna get fun soon…
Apr.17 at 11:39 am
TADOne says:
Ok, West, this isn’t so simple: Lakers in 6, Hornets in 7, Utah in 5, Spurs in 7 (this series upsets me because either the Spurs or Suns go home)
Apr.17 at 11:39 am
Ryan Jones says:
Not trying to steal your loyal followers, Holly. Just borrow them.
Apr.17 at 11:39 am
Hursty says:
passive like kobe against the suns in 0506 final quarter playoff game?
Apr.17 at 11:40 am
Holly MacKenzie says:
Hursty, it’s beautiful here today. Makes me feel alive and take some of the gloom away. haha
Apr.17 at 11:41 am
Lz - Cphfinest3 says:
Don’t now if you care, but since you are asking for predictions TAD, I’ll give you mine.
W: Nuggets in 7, Mavs in 7., Suns in 7., Jazz in 5.
E: Boston in 4., Pistons in 5., Raptors in 7., Cavs in 6.
(I could be very wrong about the Raptors, could easily be Magic in 5.)
Apr.17 at 11:41 am
Hursty says:
thanks holly. No faith in the rockets tad?
Apr.17 at 11:42 am
Tom says:
Holly, great final post-up, just like everyone above me wrote, the post-up was much more than just a daily recap and thats thanks to you. I look forward to reading all your future stuff because you definitely have a gift for bringing everyone’s love of the game out. I think it was only fitting that you got to cover the most exciting regular season in recent memory.
Apr.17 at 11:43 am
TADOne says:
Ahhhh Hursty. No Rafer for the first 2 games hurts their chances bad for me. For them to win, they have to beat Utah in Utah at least once. No easy task.
Apr.17 at 11:43 am
Hursty says:
W: lakers in 6. MAVS in 7. Spurs in 7. Rockets in 7. E: C’s in 4 (maybe 5). Detroit in 5. Orlando in 5. Wizards in 7.
Apr.17 at 11:46 am
Tom says:
As for the playoffs……san an/suns is gonna be amazing, I think Shaq will make the difference in this series as he wont let the suns be intimidated and has always given the spurs a tough time…suns in 7. I think eboy got it right when he said LA is gonna make this much harder than it needs to be, i say la in 6. I think the raptors will surprise everyone and take out orlando, they match up really well with them and orlando has no answer for the raptor point guards….and I’m hoping Deshawn can keep his word and humble King James
Apr.17 at 11:46 am
The Best Yet says:
hey Holly and everyone else,
Just thought i’d pop in a wish Holly off the right way. its been great having you bazillion word recpas of the previous night’s action.
Success in all your future endeavours and god bless. Have a good day yall.
Apr.17 at 11:46 am
Hursty says:
true, however utah is VERY strong at home but only average on the road, without looking its only a handful or two of games over 50%.
@ tad, it’ll hurt for sure. Bobby is a good player and Brooks is solid for a rookie. Best point other than the pistons one right now as a rook. maybe Conley.
Apr.17 at 11:47 am
Joel O's says:
That wasn’t just passive. That was going down with your eyes open. I guess sometimes frustration gets the better of you, but that was horrible to watch.
Apr.17 at 11:48 am
RV says:
did anyone watch the SA-Utah game…i swear Utah tanked that game…
Apr.17 at 11:48 am
Holly MacKenzie says:
Shoot, Tad. I wasn’t even thinking about Rafer. Gahh.. Who knows. The West is just wild. I hate that my boys need to take out Ivy and my new fave JR to do what they need to do. I’m more than a little nervous about this match up, too. I think the whole DUI thing is going to result in a really focused Melo who goes out there and drops in 35+ a game.
Apr.17 at 11:48 am
Tariq says:
Joel: Your Kobe/Bron comparison is the precise reason why I never considered LeBron a seriously serious contender for my irrelevant MVP vote. Even when everyone and their mother and Ryan were running the LBJ4MVP train full throttle.
Apr.17 at 11:49 am
RV says:
I’d like to know the reasoning behind these “Utah in 5″ predictions, You do know Utah is sub .500 on the road?
Apr.17 at 11:49 am
Simone Lawy says:
well i’m late, but i’m appreciate what’ve hollys post up bring me to. i was happy to be this site, i’m still a rookie here, thx for everything.
Apr.17 at 11:50 am
Hursty says:
that would make it a series then if melo had 35 a night.
RV, it was a huge tank. losing by 25+ at the half? yeh.
Apr.17 at 11:50 am
RV says:
Holly, I wouldn’t go with Houston in 6 since thats a Utah home game, if Houston wins i think it will be at home
Apr.17 at 11:50 am
Ryan Jones says:
Everyone and their mother? I don’t ever remember having that much company…
Apr.17 at 11:50 am
TADOne says:
Ryan was pulling all nighters driving that train.
Apr.17 at 11:51 am
Ryan Jones says:
Also: I picked Chris Paul.