Carlos Boozer really struggled in the first round, with his shot and overall game. He was held to 16 points per game, four below his average, by the Rockets and reached 20 points just once in that series.
He is a matchup problem for the Lakers due to his size, ability to score with both hands and being relentless on the glass. He has averaged 22 points and 12.7 Rebounds against the Lakers.
Another PF who will make his presence felt is Paul Milsap. Lamar Odom is a very underrated player that has a world of talent. He can score in a variety of ways and is tremendous for the Lakers on the glass. He makes plays on defense and had two steals in three of the four games in the first round.
The decision to take less 3-pointers has proven to be a good one. Odom has been locked in since the All-Star break and it has been epic for the Lakers. He has averaged 15 points against the Jazz on 63 percent shooting.
Advantage: Jazz
C Paul Gasol 7’ 0” 250 lbs. 6th Year, Avg. 18.9 Pts, 3.2 Ast, 8.4 Reb, 2 Blocks
C Mehmet Okur 6’ 11” 263 lbs. 5thYear, Avg. 14.5 Pts, 2.0 Ast, 7.7 Reb
Okur struggled against the Rockets front line all series but came through with a 19 point effort in game 6.
He has been an excellent rebounder the entire series averaging 12.7 rebounds, but did have games of 16 and 18 rebounds. He can step out and knock down 3 pointers.
The Lakers respect his talent and he has been taken out of his game by the Lakers. Pau Gasol wasn’t the MVP of the first-round series but he was very close.
He basically annihilated the Nuggets in halfcourt and in transition, averaging 22.3 points on 58 percent shooting, averaged 9 rebounds and 2.9 blocks a game.
He is an excellent passer out of the post and will command a double team that will open up the offense.
Advantage: Lakers
Bench
Both teams have capable bench players that can provide rest for the starters and continue the team’s high level of play. The Lakers bench has more contributors and if Trevor Ariza can make it back from injury, it will make this advantage more glaring.
Advantage: Lakers
This will be a tough matchup for both teams. I pick the Lakers in six games.
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