Dallas Mavericks vs Miami Heat
Comments: The rematch of the 2006 finals. Things have changed quite a bit for teams, but the two main players are still there (Dirk and Wade). For the Mavericks, we will see a lot of zone and trying to contain the drive from Wade and LeBron James. It may be effective for one or two games, but I don’t think it will work in a 7 game series. I believe Marion will guard James and then Stevenson then Kidd will guard Wade. Marion is having a great playoffs, as the main defensive wing player. He did a great job against Durant denying him the ball. LeBron is so much stronger and tougher though. The Mavs would need to continue their hot streak from the 3 point line thru out the playoffs in order to win this series. For the Heat, they have to stop Dirk. They did it in 2006, but Dirk is playing even at a higher level now. Back in 2006, it was Haslem who did a great job stopping him. I am not sure if Haslem can guard him especially after his injury. And Dirk got a lot stronger as well. I am sure Miami will avoid the double team because they don’t want to give up open 3s. Of course the question everyone is asking: Can LeBron defend Dirk one on one? Offensively, the Heat will rely heavily on both James and Wade. If Wade is not 100% however, it will put a lot of burden on James. If I am coaching the Heat,I would get the ball to Bosh early and see if he can get hot. That would put less pressure on both James and Wade.
Prediction: The Heat is just too strong. Miami in 5 games. Dallas has proved me wrong throughout the playoffs, and I am hoping that’s the case again.
Tags: NBA Finals
