Lakers Team Play = Magic's Nightmare

Its the seasoned veterans of the finals vs. the new kids on the block.  The Lakers 30th Finals Appearance vs. The Magic's Second Finals Appearance.  Black Mamba vs. Superman.  Kobe has the chance at his fourth ring and his first one "on his own."  Coach Phil Jackson vows for his 10th to pass Red Auerbach for most all-time.  And the rest of the Lakers want some redemption of last year's loss in the finals.   

The force they decided to bestow amongst the Lakers nation couldn't have come at a better time.  They already have the most prolific player in Kobe Bryant.  Add a couple 7-footers, a lengthy Trevor Ariza, a few key guards off the bench, and a 6'10 versatile Odom and what do you get?  A title contender who can be the opposing teams worst nightmare.  

When the Lakers play team basketball they are a force to be reckoned with.  The Denver Nuggets experienced the magic of that force when they showed their unwilling mercy at the Pepsi Center last Friday night.  This included five players in double figures, 28 assists that lead to shooting 57% from the field, 56% from 3-point land, and a staggering 100% from the free-throw line.  Lakers 119, Nuggets 92.  Bring on the Eastern Conference champion.   

Dwight Howard has the presence of a Shaquille O'Neal in the paint.  His execution in the finals has yet to be determined.  He has the paint to play in and the weapons to back him up on the 3-point arc.  

NBA broadcasters and coaches often refer to the phrase "You live and die by the 3." My thoughts exactly.  When the Lakers play their shut down defense along the arc they will have Bynum or Gasol or both to contain the re-entry to Howard.  So what options does that leave for the Magic?  A contested 3-point attempt, a dump into Howard (with two 7-footers waiting), or a mid-range attempt.  A mid-range game that lacks confidence in Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy.  

The Orlando Magic swept the regular season series and have beaten the Lakers the last three of four meetings.  They took care of the defending champion Boston Celtics, in game 7, on the road, and handled MVP LeBron James and the Cavs in six.  What does that mean now?  Zilch.  Now, they play on the games biggest stage.  You think there is pressure to perform and execute?  Most definitely.  

Kobe and the Lakers will rise up to the challenge. It's too bad Dwight doesn't have a big enough cape for Orlando to soar towards NBA Finals glory.