Game Thoughts: Spurs vs. Suns Game 1

[timvp]

Well, I guess that’s one way to begin the playoffs. The Spurs and Suns put on a show that will go down as one of the better basketball games these two teams ever participate in. The Spurs and Suns exchanged haymakers until the Spurs were finally able to escape with a 117-115 double overtime victory.

I thought the Suns played extremely well. They came out more prepared to win the game and handily outplayed the Spurs in the first half. Steve Nash was amazing, particularly in the second half and the overtimes. If it weren’t for a few miraculous plays by the Spurs, the Suns would have stolen Game 1 in San Antonio. If you are a Suns fan, you can’t fault their effort.

For the Spurs, there were heroes galore. San Antonio rebounded from a poor showing in the first half and played with unbelievable heart and determination the rest of the way. The Spurs fought as hard as they could to get the win. In true Jacob Riis style, the Spurs pounded the rock until it cracked. It took 58 minutes, but the team kept at it until victory was secured.

Overall, it was a very good win for the Spurs. The team showed more heart and determination than it did all regular season combined. Perhaps the best aspect of this game if you are a Spurs fan is that the team played better and better as the contest went along, especially offensively. Hopefully that bodes well for Game 2.

-Tim Duncan was fantastic. In one of his best games of his basketball playing life, Duncan had 40 points, 15 rebounds, five assists and three blocked shots, while shooting 16-for-24 from the field. Coming into this series, many questioned whether Duncan would be able to score against Shaquille O’Neal and the Suns. Duncan responded with an emphatic vintage performance that very well could go down as one of the defining games of his career. While most of Duncan’s damage came in the paint, his most memorable shot of the game was the three-pointer he hit at the end of the first overtime to tie the game. Simply put, it was just a masterful performance out of Duncan. When he one day hangs up his Adidas, this will be one of Duncan’s games Spurs fans always remember.

-Manu Ginobili started off the game slowly but he came up huge when the Spurs needed him the most. After Nash hit an improbable three-pointer to tie the game in double overtime with 15 second remaining, Ginobili took the ball up the court and hit a game-winning lean back shot in the paint to give the Spurs the win. For the game, Ginobili 24 points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals, while shooting 10-for-24 from the field. His final line is especially impressive when you consider he was 1-for-7 in the first half. Defensively, Ginobili was good enough and he really became effective offensively when he decided to relentlessly attack the rim. The only real negative for Ginobili was his outside shot. He was 0-for-6 on three-pointers and none of them were very close. The likely explanation is he’s still recovering from his groin injury. Ginobili getting 100% healthy at some point in the playoffs is vital for the Spurs to win the whole thing.

-Like Ginobili, Tony Parker struggled though a difficult first half. At halftime, Parker was 3-for-9 with two turnovers. In the second half and overtimes, I though Parker played exceptionally well offensively, especially in regards to his decision making. I only saw a couple of questionable decisions out of Parker in the last 34 minutes of the game, however the Spurs still ended up scoring each time. After the first half, Parker went on to hit 8-of-11 shots from the field and didn’t turn the ball over again. He finished with 26 points, five assists and two rebounds, while playing a team-high 51 minutes. Defensively, Parker got stronger as the game went on. He let Leandro Barbosa get away from him a bit in the first half but in the second half and overtimes, Parker found himself on Nash and he did an admirable job. Nash still was able to produce but Parker forced him into tough situations. Parker's biggest mistakes defensively were unnecessary fouls and he ended up fouling out in the second overtime. On the whole, it was a good opening game from Parker.

-Bruce Bowen began the playoffs with a thud. He played only 21 minutes and was largely ineffective while on the court. Defensively, he didn’t seem as focused as usual, as he let Nash get away from him more than usual. Offensively, he was a liability because he forced the action too much. Pop ended up going away from him in the second half, which was the right call. If Bowen isn’t able to dominate defensively, he may find himself on the bench a lot this series. First of all, the Spurs have struggled to score against the Suns recently, so having as many scorers on the court at the same time is important. Second of all, Nash is really only able to defend Bowen. If Bowen is on the bench, Nash’s defensive limitations become much more apparent. Thirdly, Parker showed he can guard Nash well enough and outside of Nash, the Suns don’t really have a perimeter scorer who warrants Bowen’s attention. All that said, Bowen is a player who plays better as series go along so it’d be foolish to count him out just yet.

-Michael Finley was one of the many heroes for the Spurs in this game. He nailed a three-pointer at the end of regulation to send the game into overtime. In 48 minutes, Finley had 13 points and three rebounds, while hitting 5-of-11 shots from the field and 3-of-7 from beyond the three-point arc. Finley’s role as the team’s fourth offensive option is extremely important and he was just that on Saturday afternoon. Defensively, Finley was a bit slow to respond to his team defensive responsibilities a few times, however I thought his one-on-one defense was pretty solid. It’d be nice if he could pull down a few more rebounds and be more alive defensively but his scoring is his most important contribution at this point.

-Fabricio Oberto started at center and played decently enough. Pop did a good job of keeping Oberto off of O’Neal as much as possible. Oberto wasn’t overly impressive when defending Amare Stoudemire but he competed well. Oberto helped the team most with his acting skills, which put a few fouls on O’Neal and Stoudemire. In Game 1, Oberto finished with four points and five rebounds, and hit 2-of-3 shots from the field in 23 minutes. It’d be nice if Oberto could do a better job against Stoudemire but at this point, I’m not sure if he’s capable. Stoudemire might just be too good.

-Kurt Thomas showed exactly why the Spurs went out and got him at the trade deadline. His post defense was great against both O’Neal and Stoudemire. He drew charges. He pulled down rebounds (ten boards in 29 minutes). Overall, Thomas was just extremely solid for the Spurs. Without his contributions, it’s difficult to imagine the Spurs winning this game. I thought he forced a few shots offensively but it’s tough to complain with how well he played in his first playoff game for San Antonio.

-Brent Barry deserves huge props for his play. With the Spurs stagnant offensively, Barry came in and added instant life to the offense. His three-pointer in the first half was an emotional turning point for the team. Defensively, he’s going to be a liability due to his injured calf but he competed very well and played craftily at that end of the court. In ten minutes, Barry finished with four points, two rebounds and a steal. Considering this is only his third game back from injury, Barry played extremely well. With everyone on the bench struggling in Game 1 outside of Ginobili and Thomas, I think it’s already time for Barry to regain his spot in the rotation. If I’m Pop, I play Barry as both the backup point guard and the fourth swingman. He has the experience, he knows how to win championships and he has the offensive skillset the Spurs need in this series.

-I was extremely unimpressed with Ime Udoka in his first playoff action for the Spurs. He rushed ill-advised shots offensively that got the Spurs out of rhythm. Defensively he was pretty decent but it didn’t makeup for the fact that his offense was so shaky. Like I’ve said all season, Udoka’s shot selection leaves a lot to be desired and that was too apparent in Game 1. I think it’s already time to give Udoka’s minutes to Barry and limit Udoka to a spot defender role. If the Spurs advance, there could be matchups where Udoka is needed. I just don’t think he’s a good fit in this series. The Spurs need to beat the Suns with patience, execution and level headedness, and Udoka just isn’t strong enough in those three areas.

-Jacque Vaughn was really bad last year against the Suns (outside of a stretch in Game 6) and Pop was quick to go away from him in this game. I agreed with the decision. Like Udoka, Vaughn doesn’t matchup well against the Suns. They know how to defend him and they know how to attack him on the other end. The Barry/Ginobili combination is much better backing up the point than Vaughn against the Suns. The less Vaughn plays against the Suns, the better.

-Matt Bonner and Robert Horry didn’t play. Damon Stoudamire wasn’t in uniform. It was good just to see Horry in uniform and apparently well enough to play. There could be a time in this series where Horry is called upon to try to spark the team.

-I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a game in which Pop utilized his bag of tricks as much as he did in Game 1. Amazingly, almost every button he pushed ended up working out perfectly. It’s tough for a coach to have much more of a positive impact than Pop did in this contest.

Honestly though, I didn’t agree with a lot of his moves at the time. The Hack-a-Skinner and Hack-a-Shaq moves were pretty lame, I must admit. Hack-a-Shaq rarely works. The last time Pop tried it was in Game 6 in the 2004 playoffs and O’Neal ended up making Pop look foolish. However, it worked out this time because inexplicably Mike D’Antoni benched O’Neal for four minutes in the fourth quarter. I don’t like when the Spurs resort to gimmick basketball and Hack-a-Shaq is definitely gimmick basketball. Luckily, D’Antoni overreacted and the strategy paid off.

On the other hand, I loved how Pop abandoned all conventional wisdom and played Barry in place of Udoka and Vaughn. Barry hadn’t played in an important game in what felt like an eternity, while Udoka and Vaughn have been playing a lot in the final few months of the season. Pop going to Barry was a great move and it provided the team with a much needed offensive boost.

I also liked the matchups Pop used defensively. I’ve long campaigned for more Parker on Nash and I thought it worked well in this game. Parker rarely if ever guarded Nash in the regular season, so it was a nice change of pace to throw at Nash. Eventually Nash got rolling but there wasn’t much more Parker could have done (other than not foul as much). Pop keeping Oberto off of O’Neal was key, as was using Thomas until Thomas fouled out.

Pop’s biggest dilemma heading into Game 2 is what to do with Bowen. Do you play Bowen and let him harass Nash or do you instead get more offense into the game? My only concern with Parker on Nash is how it opens up Barbosa to do well. Parker is the only player on the team who can really shutdown Barbosa. However, the Spurs really don’t have the luxury to do anything other than putting scorers on the court. The Suns are going to score and are built to defend the Spurs as well as possible. Pop may have to keep going with scorers and using gimmicks defensively (such as Hack-a-Shaq) to try to slow the Suns’ attack.

I’m also interested to see if Udoka and Vaughn remain in the rotation in Game 2. Pop may play them in the first half to see if they will produce and then go with his Barry safety net in the second half if necessary. Personally, if Barry is healthy, I see no reason to not play him 15 minutes per game in this series.

The bottomline is the Spurs got the Game 1 victory. It wasn’t pretty and it definitely wasn’t easy. In Game 2, they’ll need a similar effort if they want to go up 2-0 in this series. The playoffs just began but the Spurs already find themselves in a dog fight against a very good Phoenix squad.

Fight, scrap and claw to get Game 2.

Believe.





















Enemy Perspective

-Steve Nash played extremely well. He wasn’t scoring early but turned into a man possessed beginning in the fourth quarter. In the first three stanzas, Nash had five points. He ended up scoring 20 points in the fourth quarter and the overtimes. He finished with 25 points, 13 assists and only two turnovers. Defensively, he doesn’t get much credit but he’s much, much improved from a few years ago. Nash still isn't a good defender but he competes defensively, he doesn’t roam aimlessly as much anymore and he’s very good at taking charges. He’s never going to be Gary Payton but he’s now playing the best defense of his career.

-Amare Stoudemire has regained about 95% of his pre-microfracture surgery athleticism. Compared even to last year’s playoffs, he’s come a long ways. His lateral movements aren’t where they used to be but his running, jumping and stamina are all back to near 100%. In Game 1, he played well enough offensively. He didn’t do much damage on the boards, especially on the defensive end. His turnovers and unnecessary fouls hurt the Suns.

-Shaquille O’Neal has come a long ways since earlier this season with the Heat. He’s in good shape and his nimbleness has returned. He played well enough defensively but the Suns will expect him to produce more in other aspects of the game. The Suns will want O’Neal to rebound more and be more aggressive offensively, especially when he’s matched up against Duncan. Staying out of foul trouble will be key for O’Neal.

-Grant Hill didn’t do much of anything in Game 1. He looked slower than usual and I suspect his groin is hurting him. The Suns are going to want him to look for his shot more, especially if he’s being guarded by Finley. If Hill is healthy enough, expect him to spend time against Parker defensively before this series is over.

-The Suns got a decent enough showing out of Raja Bell. His defense was especially impressive in the first half. In the second half and overtime, he wasn’t as good and Ginobili took advantage. There will be times in this series where Parker is defending him and the Phoenix coaches would no doubt want Bell to take advantage.

-Leandro Barbosa played better in this game than he did during the whole 2007 series. If Parker is going to play against Nash, Barbosa will find himself up against a player who doesn’t have the speed to defend him. For the Suns to win this series, Barbosa is going to have to average close to 18 points per game.

-Boris Diaw was also much improved from last year’s series. Last playoffs, Diaw was unsure of himself and the Spurs could basically ignore him. He’s now playing with a purpose and he has a chance to be a huge piece for the Suns this year. The Spurs don’t have a player who matches up with Diaw very well if Diaw is on his game.

-Gordon Giricek was active, both offensively and defensively. D’Antoni probably could have played him more, especially considering Hill wasn’t having much of an impact. Giricek is an underrated defender and he seems like a natural fit in the Suns offense.

-Skinner played a bit in the first half but after Pop went to the Hack-a-Skinner strategy, D’Antoni buried him on the bench.

-D’Antoni coached a poor ballgame. I thought he overreacted and outthought himself a number of times. When the Suns had chances to win the game with a basket, he went away from the Nash and Stoudemire pick and roll for no apparent reason. As a Spurs fan, I thank him for that. Diaw is a pretty nice player but using him twice in game-winning situations doesn’t scare me nearly as much as a lot of other players on that team.

Additionally, D’Antoni benching O’Neal to prevent Hack-a-Shaq was pretty humorous. Does he plan to never play O’Neal in the fourth quarters outside of the final two minutes? If you trade for O’Neal, you should be prepared for the Hack-a-Shaq maneuver. And watching O’Neal over the years, he usually responds positively to Hack-a-Shaq. It might take him a few trips to the line but he usually starts hitting his freebies.

Overall, Pop thoroughly outcoached D’Antoni. Personally, I hope that continues until the Spurs send this whiny bunch packing for the fourth time in six seasons.

:hat

[Amuseddaysleeper]

This is the best recap of the season so far :tu


The enemy perspective is a very nice touch.


My biggest concerns timvp, is that PHX still managed to shoot 50% for the game, and while Shaq does commit a lot of fouls (and was -6 for the night in the +/- category) I hope the Spurs can find their defensive identity. They did a great job when the Suns had last second attempts in regulation and the first OT to force them into bad shots, but too many times Amare got way too close to the basket for easy lay ins/dunks and Finley's missed defensive assignments (He constantly failed to switch over to Amare) were killing us.

I'm expecting adjustments to be made, and I was wondering what adjustments you think Pop should make for game 2?

[DespЏrado]

Sweet finally! Been waiting for this.

[freemeat]

Excellent read!

Only thing I'd disagree with is calling the "Hack-A-Shaq" lame. I think it was something Pop felt he should give a shot considering the refs weren't going to give him that sixth foul. Also, at the same time, the Spurs had a foul to give and it seemed like a decent time to start slowing the game down. The Suns had a pace that sort of favored them, while being up a few points, so slowing the game down and forcing Shaq to take free-throws in the meantime seemed like a good idea to me!

I think this was a brilliant performance from Pop. On the other hand, I would have liked to see Bowen on Nash a bit more.

Nash is probably one of the greatest set-up guys to ever run the pick-and-roll and it seems like Tony is having a hard time keeping up. When TP goes under the screen, Nash passes off to Amare (or whomever) before it gets too "dangerous" and TP can make a play for a steal. Parker doesn't slide his feet quite as well as Bruce can, which forces him to play back and HAVE to go under the screen. When Bruce is on him, not only can he stay on top of the ball, but he quite frequently forces Nash into a situation where he doesn't know what to do. It's rare to see the Suns get a 24-second violation when Nash is running the point, but the only time I've seen it done is when Bruce is on him.

Honestly, though...other than that, Pop was amazing.

Duncan was amazing, but Ginobili and Parker stepped up as well. While the Big 3 had 90 combined, it's easy to over-shadow the efforts of the other guys. Finley, Barry, Thomas were HUGE!

This game was the style of Spurs basketball we all come to love and respect -- leadership and passion from Duncan and Popovich that trickled down through the rest of the team.


That 3 from Duncan might not top Big Shot's Game 5 winner, but it's only because that was in the Finals...In the meantime, it's definitely up there with the Memorial Day Miracle!

Believe...in 5!

[Mister Sinister]

As always, timvp, great write-up.

[K-State Spur]

Outstanding game. IMHO, 2 ways to look at it:

a) Pessimist perspective - It took 2 near miraculous plays by the Spurs to win. Plays that can't be counted on to happen 3 more times in this series.

b) Optimist perspective - Over the final 40 minutes of the ballgame, the Spurs were +18. Once they took the Suns initial punch to the mouth, they did to that team what they always do - scored almost at will and got stops when they needed to.

May be putting the cart before the horse here, but I think the Spurs can win the series in the during the first half on Tuesday. The Suns will come out with a lot of intensity and try to hit back after the way that last game ended. Knock 'em down again and they may not be able to get back up. Get off to a great start and bury these mental midgets and they'll collapse like a tent.

[DAF86]

My only concern with Parker on Nash is how it opens up Barbosa to do well. Parker is the only player on the team who can really shutdown Barbosa.

When Barbosa and Nash were on the court at the same time, Tony stayed with Leandrinho and Manu guarded Steve and they both did a pretty good job in my opinion so i don't see a problem there.

[DAF86]

Outstanding game. IMHO, 2 ways to look at it:

a) Pessimist perspective - It took 2 near miraculous plays by the Spurs to win. Plays that can't be counted on to happen 3 more times in this series.

b) Optimist perspective - Over the final 40 minutes of the ballgame, the Spurs were +18. Once they took the Suns initial punch to the mouth, they did to that team what they always do - scored almost at will and got stops when they needed to.

May be putting the cart before the horse here, but I think the Spurs can win the series in the during the first half on Tuesday. The Suns will come out with a lot of intensity and try to hit back after the way that last game ended. Knock 'em down again and they may not be able to get back up. Get off to a great start and bury these mental midgets and they'll collapse like a tent.

b.2) Optimist perspective - If they didn't beat us this time they aren't going to do it ever.

[freemeat]

The Suns will come out with a lot of intensity and try to hit back after the way that last game ended. Knock 'em down again and they may not be able to get back up. Get off to a great start and bury these mental midgets and they'll collapse like a tent.

Couldn't have said it better...

On one hand, I'm hoping the Suns are completely deflated by that defeat and can't muster up any effort at all. On the other, damn, I want this series to have seven games like the one we just saw. If the rest of the games are any where near Saturday's, we'll have the greatest first-round series in NBA history.

A flat-out amazing way to start a run at a back-to-back title...

[polandprzem]

I'm surprised D'Antoni is so calm - nice acting.

HE has got bigger mouth right now on the team in Shaq.


I think the first half was what the spurs must avoid. The stagnant offense, damn there were too many 4-downs in which Duncan played by himself, Good that he it those shots but he won't be hitting 16 out of 24 every game. Shaq will come back stronger and they will clog the lane so Duncan won't be able to penatrate finishing with his baby hooks.

Umm I would love to see more from Udoka and he seems like pissed at himself that he can't produce and I think he will get it vs the Suns, we need him in this series.
Also Bowen will be better next context I'm sure of it.
The bad is that we are faceing Phoenix so soon in the playoffs. The crucial guy is not at full health and I mean Barry. As I said somwhere in the regural season Spurs played to slow of an offense and too stagnant. Well Barry can provide some havoc and space the floor and make the plays that will be a show of the motion offense. All in all in 2005 that was the biggest spurs weapon (not to be predictable).


The most important thing I was saying before the series begun was the mental aspect. Shaq wants to put Spurs into a complex. HE thought he had the spurs right there on the plate but spurs escaped from the plate and now dictating their own fate. That's the heart I always wanted to see from the spurs. That's the guts I love.
At that stage - mission accoplished.


D'Antoni thinks he got a good plan for the spurs, but guess what - Pop is adjusting and is better and better when the series go further.

That's it for now, I'm gonna go to sleep it's almost 10am and I'm after work. When I will wake up I will watch the game once again with better quality.
The dead tired polandprzem is not what you want when talking about textbook quality grammar.

[MannyIsGod]

I told you Barry was a huge part of the offense!

:)

Spurs in four!

[DespЏrado]

Hmm:

Finley:
Way too easy on how badly Finley played in the first half. Finely didn't come alive yet again until Barry stepped in and hit a three. And i thought a lot of our early defensive lapses were due to Finley being out of position. But I guess big shots forgive all sins, in that case why even start Finley?


Parker:
I think his head was bothering him into what could have been a disastrous outing. He seemed to lose all of that body control that makes him such a terror in the paint, and it's a testament to just how good he has become that he managed to play through it.

Udoka:
I agree with you on him. I do however think he deserves this year to get acclimated to the Spurs playoff system. It takes shooters a year to get used to the Spurs, and Udoka should improve, but will need minutes to do so. But he deserves credit for attacking the rim and not hesitating on launch the three ball. He got blocked a few times but that shouldn't discourage him from those attempts. Maybe whoever taught Parker to protect the ball so well can work with Udoka on the same thing. That seems to be his major difficulty.

Barry:
Kick ass job coming in and nailing that three. It really lifted the Spurs spirits.

[ata]

Nice recap.

You should mention, that Spurs extended the game for Slomo. Since he rarely atends games, they offered him extra 10 min of pleasure.

[ShoogarBear]

Nice recap but . . . Tony Parker played the game with all the symptoms of a concussion and no mention of it?

[yourtehclay]

I have one thought to ad to all of this. I've never felt so strongly for a man after Timmy's performance tonight. I *heart* Timmy.

[Supreme_Being]

Extremely well written. Thanks timvp!

[timvp]

Only thing I'd disagree with is calling the "Hack-A-Shaq" lame. I think it was something Pop felt he should give a shot considering the refs weren't going to give him that sixth foul. Also, at the same time, the Spurs had a foul to give and it seemed like a decent time to start slowing the game down. The Suns had a pace that sort of favored them, while being up a few points, so slowing the game down and forcing Shaq to take free-throws in the meantime seemed like a good idea to me!With Shaq in the game, a faster pace helps the Spurs ... especially if Duncan and the other big run the court. Hack-a-Shaq forces the Spurs to try to score in the halfcourt set, which the Suns actually prefer now that they have the ultimate space eater.

The only reason to use Hack-a-Shaq IMO is if you have absolutely no confidence in your defense. Otherwise it's a gimmick that will fail more often than not.

That said, if D'Antoni is going to pull Shaq right away every time, it may be worth it just to get Shaq off the court. But I don't think even D'Antoni would make that mistake again.


TMy biggest concerns timvp, is that PHX still managed to shoot 50% for the game, and while Shaq does commit a lot of fouls (and was -6 for the night in the +/- category) I hope the Spurs can find their defensive identity. They did a great job when the Suns had last second attempts in regulation and the first OT to force them into bad shots, but too many times Amare got way too close to the basket for easy lay ins/dunks and Finley's missed defensive assignments (He constantly failed to switch over to Amare) were killing us.The Spurs defense was solid for the most part. Obviously Bowen could have played better and Finley could have been more attentive, however all in all the Spurs defense was good. The Suns offense is just that effective. Stoudemire is a world class athlete with a deadly jumper and Nash is a two-time MVP. Unless DRob comes out of retirement, the Suns offense is pretty much impossible to shut down. The Spurs have to find other ways to win. Luckily they've been able to do that in 2005 and last year.


I'm expecting adjustments to be made, and I was wondering what adjustments you think Pop should make for game 2?I'll respond to this when I have more time.


When Barbosa and Nash were on the court at the same time, Tony stayed with Leandrinho and Manu guarded Steve and they both did a pretty good job in my opinion so i don't see a problem there.False. Go watch the fourth quarter and overtimes again. Parker was on Nash, Ginobili was on Barbosa. When Bowen was in, Parker then switched to Barbosa and Ginobili to Bell.


Hmm:

Finley:
Way too easy on how badly Finley played in the first half. Finely didn't come alive yet again until Barry stepped in and hit a three. And i thought a lot of our early defensive lapses were due to Finley being out of position. But I guess big shots forgive all sins, in that case why even start Finley?Regarding Finley's defense, it's tough to get too mad at him. He's never been a good defender. He'll never be a good defender. He did a good job sticking with Hill and Bell. Asking him to turn into Bowen or even Ginobili in terms of reading offenses to know when to come over to help is asking too much. I'm happy enough with Finley when he doesn't get abused in one-on-one matchups.

But yeah if Bowen played defense like Finley did yesterday, it'd be time for Bowen to retire. Different scales at work . . .


Nice recap but . . . Tony Parker played the game with all the symptoms of a concussion and no mention of it?Playoff time -- no excuses.

[gilmor]

San Antonio rebounded from a poor showing in the first half and played with unbelievable heart and determination the rest of the way. The Spurs fought as hard as they could to get the win. In true Jacob Riis style, the Spurs pounded the rock until it cracked. It took 58 minutes, but the team kept at it until victory was secured.

This best summarizes why Spurs won Game 1.

There is no other ways to stop this Suns Team. Spurs is not going to outscore them per quarter basis until Suns finally gave up. So it's going to be 'pound-the-rock-till-it-cracks' kinda play..

[timvp]

This best summarizes why Spurs won Game 1.

There is no other ways to stop this Suns Team. Spurs is not going to outscore them per quarter basis until Suns finally gave up. So it's going to be 'pound-the-rock-till-it-cracks' kinda play..Yeah, this is going to be a damn tough series. In past series, at least the Spurs had Shawn Marion on their side. That choking beotch was probably the MVP for the Spurs in 2003 and 2005 ... and he wasn't much better last year.

Every personnel move the Suns made in the last three years has been to beat the Spurs. They've now constructed a team that could very well do that. The Spurs' advantages right now are chemistry, experience and smarts. But eventually, if you build your team to beat one singular team, you are going to crack through. Especially when you have more talent.

Just gotta hope this isn't the year.

Like others have said in this thread, Game 2 is hugely important. I think it's safe to say the winner of Game 2 wins the series. If the Spurs win, Shaq will hopefully go into sweep mode. If the Spurs lose, the Suns will be sky high with confidence thinking it was a fluke they didn't win both in San Antonio.

[DAF86]

False. Go watch the fourth quarter and overtimes again. Parker was on Nash, Ginobili was on Barbosa. When Bowen was in, Parker then switched to Barbosa and Ginobili to Bell.

I can't watch the game again 'cause i didn't recorded it. And i can't recall who's guarding who at the end of the game 'cause i was too fricking nervous but I do remember that in the 2nd Qtr Manu was on Nash and Tony on Barbosa, so if you recorded the game go see that what I said isn't false.

[timaios]

Barry was 1/1 in 10 min, he could have taken 1 or 2 more shots.

T.Parker 51:28
T.Duncan 50:41
M.Finley 48:12
M.Ginobili 45:00

That's a lot of minutes for "old" players (except Parker) !!!

+/- for Suns team

G.Hill -6
A.Stoudemire +11 (in 45:58)
S.O'Neal -6
R.Bell -2
S.Nash -3
B.Diaw +1
L.Barbosa 0
G.Giricek +1
B.Skinner -6

Stoudemire is a killer against the Spurs !!!
We need to do a better job when he is on the court.
Maybe he will be on the court for the entire game, tuesday.

The Suns have nothing to lose, the Spurs must be prepared to fight back !
They need to stay focused... because the Suns will be ready for revenge !

:ihit

[timvp]

I can't watch the game again 'cause i didn't recorded it. And i can't recall who's guarding who at the end of the game 'cause i was too fricking nervous but I do remember that in the 2nd Qtr Manu was on Nash and Tony on Barbosa, so if you recorded the game go see that what I said isn't false.Didn't happen. I just rewatched the second quarter and what you said is false. Parker, Ginobili, Barbosa and Nash were all on the court for the final four minutes of the second quarter. Bowen guarded Nash until Barry came in for Bowen. After that substitution, Parker guarded Nash for the rest of the quarter.

So unless Argentina gets a different video feed, you are remembering incorrectly.

[DAF86]

Didn't happen. I just rewatched the second quarter and what you said is false. Parker, Ginobili, Barbosa and Nash were all on the court for the final four minutes of the second quarter. Bowen guarded Nash until Barry came in for Bowen. After that substitution, Parker guarded Nash for the rest of the quarter.

So unless Argentina gets a different video feed, you are remembering incorrectly.

OK whatever you say, i clearly remember Manu on Nash, Parker on Barbosa and Finley on Bell or (Hill i don't know) maybe was in the third quarter then but I know it happened and for an extended period of time 'cause Leandro Ginobili (Manu's brother) said that because of Pop decision of not playing Bowen a lot of time Manu needed to guard Nash.

[timvp]

OK whatever you say, i clearly remember Manu on Nash, Parker on Barbosa and Finley on Bell or (Hill i don't know) maybe was in the third quarter then but I know it happened and for an extended period of time 'cause Leandro Ginobili (Manu's brother) said that because of Pop decision of not playing Bowen a lot of time Manu needed to guard Nash.Nash, Barbosa, Parker and Ginobili were on the court together for 23 seconds in the third quarter.

[DAF86]

Nash, Barbosa, Parker and Ginobili were on the court together for 23 seconds in the third quarter.

So, you found it. :hat

[timvp]

So, you found it. :hat:lol Actually, no. In the one Suns possession, Parker guarded Nash and Ginobili was on Barbosa.

[ShoogarBear]

Playoff time -- no excuses.

Groin pull?

[DAF86]

:lol Actually, no. In the one Suns possession, Parker guarded Nash and Ginobili was on Barbosa.

OK let's end this right here 'cause we aren't going to get on the same page on this, and after-all maybe we do get a different video feed in Argentina 'cause here it looked like the guy that sent the game to a 2nd OT with a three was Duncan. And there's no way that's what happened.

[kolko]

I also remember Manu guarding Nash in the first half. Nash scored a three pointer while Manu was guarding him.

[DAF86]

I also remember Manu guarding Nash in the first half. Nash scored a three pointer while Manu was guarding him.

Yeah, but you're from Argentina like me. We get a "3rd world country" kind of video quality that's why we see things that aren't really happening.

[timvp]

I also remember Manu guarding Nash in the first half. Nash scored a three pointer while Manu was guarding him.Manu defended Nash for a bit. It just wasn't while Parker and Barbosa were on the floor.

[timvp]

Groin pull?Didn't want to be accused of being racist.

:greedy

[cly2tw]

very nice summary even in suns fans' eyes.

I believe the main mistake by DA was how he rotated players, or didn't do much unless forced to.

Giricek would have provided enough everything. Hill was hurt and Bell got tired, which helped to make Manu the hero in the OT. But Gira was sitting. Also, he should plan to use Skinner regularly 4-6 mins in the 1st half, instead only as a reaction to foul trouble. Suns lost 8 pts due to hack-a-Skinny and Spurs smartly forcing Skinner to be open. Had DA used him early 2nd with another big, he might have been able to take some of Diaw and Shaq's fouls while he was in the game.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Fantastic recap as always, LJ, and I like the "enemy's perspective". You are a far better writer about the specifics of a basketball game than most of those paid to do it for a living. :toast

Of the role players, I thought Thomas was incredible, and it was great to see Barry on the court messing with people again. Something you didn't mention is that his off-the-ball movement was really good and something the Spurs have often lacked this season.

Manu and TP were great in the second half and OT, but as for Tim, this was my take:

This was not Tim's greatest regular season. At times he was dominant - he had a great rodeo road trip, and some 5-8 game stretches, particularly against lesser teams, where he dominated on offense or on D, but rarely put the two together. He coasted for stretches, and sometimes played without the smarts we have come to appreciate from him. Tim was also plagued by a dearth of foul calls compared to the rest of his career which clearly put him off his game at times.

That was the regular season. Now, it's the playoffs, and today Tim Duncan showed the world why he is the greatest competitor of the post-Jordan NBA. In maybe the best first game of the first round of the playoffs in NBA history, Tim controlled crunch-time with indomitable will.

Specifically, from the 6 minute mark of the 4th quarter, when the game was on the line, Tim dominated every aspect of the game. On offense, he showed his entire repertoire - low post, drive, put-back, jumpshot, smart pass. He set impeccable screens. He played rugged, intelligent defense. His decision-making was unimpeachable. We witnessed a virtuoso performance reminiscent of Michael Jordan in that Tim demonstrated steel will and veins of ice in making play after incredible play to carry the team to victory. Tim singlehandedly broke Phoenix today - this was Tim Duncan, PLAYOFF WARRIOR.

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=92480

Finally, concerning the 3pter, how about this:

Check this out: watch the play again from the top-down shot. Manu drove and drew two guys, Finley was parked in the far corner, Thomas was in the near post with two guys on him (what was Bell doing hanging out in the post near Thomas?), and guess who was wide open in the corner - TP. Tim had enought time to switch it to him for the open 3, but chose to take it himself. Interesting choice, eh?

[wildbill2u]

Udoka is hesitating when he gets the ball on the wing for the 3 pt shot and then making a move inside the arc or shooting after a fake. And then the shot is usually off.

These are the signs of a player without playoff experience and confidence. If he'd shoot when he gets the ball in rhythm, he'd do better.

[mVp]

Thanks for the read, great recap :)

[freemeat]

WHack-a-Shaq forces the Spurs to try to score in the halfcourt set, which the Suns actually prefer now that they have the ultimate space eater.

I still have to disagree with you on this!

I hate to say one of the "godfathers" of ST is completely WRONG, but that statement doesn't make sense.

By "space eater" I HAVE to assume that you mean Shaq. "Whak (or Hack)-A-Shaq)" takes him OUT of the game, which means the Spurs are more easily able to do whatever they want in the paint.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't something like 32-34 of TD's points scored when Shaq was out? On top of that, weren't 2 of Shaq's blocks on TD?

Getting Shaq OUT of the game is exactly what Pop wanted to do with "Hack-A-Shaq" and it worked to the Spurs' advantage.

[timvp]

Getting Shaq OUT of the game is exactly what Pop wanted to do with "Hack-A-Shaq" and it worked to the Spurs' advantage.I don't think Pop planned on D'Antoni taking Shaq out of the game as a counter-adjustment. Pop was just hoping that Shaq would miss a few free-throws. That D'Antoni panicked and took Shaq out of the game was just an added bonus.

Phil Jackson would leave Shaq in the game until Shaq got on a roll at the line. Then again, that's why one is Phil Jackson and one is Mike D'Antoni.

[DAF86]

I still have to disagree with you on this!

I hate to say one of the "godfathers" of ST is completely WRONG, but that statement doesn't make sense.

By "space eater" I HAVE to assume that you mean Shaq. "Whak (or Hack)-A-Shaq)" takes him OUT of the game, which means the Spurs are more easily able to do whatever they want in the paint.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't something like 32-34 of TD's points scored when Shaq was out? On top of that, weren't 2 of Shaq's blocks on TD?

Getting Shaq OUT of the game is exactly what Pop wanted to do with "Hack-A-Shaq" and it worked to the Spurs' advantage.

D'antoni was stupid enough to fall into Pop's trap, If Pop tries this again I don't think MD'd do the same.

[1Parker1]

While it was an amazing win, it is what it is. Game 1 of the first round series. It took a superhuman effort and lots of unforeced errors on the part of the Suns to win this game. My worry is how the Spurs react and will handle the Suns IF Amare/Shaq DOn't get into foul trouble. D'Antoni is going to turn this in the jumpshooting contest and before the Spurs won the game with late 3 pointers, Suns were actually doing a great job denying the Spurs 3 point shooters. That's why Bowen was driven off the corner 3's and forced to dribble and drive. Finley wasn't able to get clean looks either and Ginobili is obviously still hurt as many of his 3 point shots were flat.

Spurs historically have shown that they struggle to win games when they aren't making 3's. They aren't a great jumpshooting team either. This game could still go either way and as a Spurs fan, I can't help but recall Game 1 of the 06 Mavs series. Mavs made some unforced errors in that one too and the Spurs got away with a win. However, we all know how that series ended up going :depressed

And the worst part is, whoever wins this round, Spurs or Suns, is going to be so tired by the Conference finals, imagine having to go through 3 straight series like this and then having to play the Celtics (most likely, Sorry Pistons fans) who's going to basically have a cakewalk to the finals.

[DarrinS]

I don't know about everyone else, but I'd like to see the Spurs play a different style of basketball in game 2. It would be nice to see the Spurs run more and have better ball movement. I think this would help get our perimeter game going. Instead, what we saw was a lot of feeds to Tim in the post, while everyone stood around watching him. I suspect that the original game plan changed early, when Tony got wacked in the head and Shaq got into early foul trouble. Luckily, Tim had one of his best performances of all time. His 3 rivals Horry's dunk on the Pistons as one of the great Spurs moments of all time.

I thought Pop's coaching in game 1 was brilliant.


What I want to see in game 2 is a lot of running. Suns aquired Shaq to play a slow-paced halfcourt game, so why give that to them? Just my opinion.


:flag::flag::flag:

[DarrinS]

My worry is how the Spurs react and will handle the Suns IF Amare/Shaq DOn't get into foul trouble. D'Antoni is going to turn this in the jumpshooting contest and before the Spurs won the game with late 3 pointers, Suns were actually doing a great job denying the Spurs 3 point shooters. That's why Bowen was driven off the corner 3's and forced to dribble and drive.


I think the Spurs will have more 3's with better ball movement. The Spurs have to force the action and go into attack mode. Is there anyone faster with the basketball than Tony Parker? When TP is penetrating and dishing, the Spurs play their best basketball. The last game of the reg. season was a shining example.

[florige]

I think the Spurs will have more 3's with better ball movement. The Spurs have to force the action and go into attack mode. Is there anyone faster with the basketball than Tony Parker? When TP is penetrating and dishing, the Spurs play their best basketball. The last game of the reg. season was a shining example.



Yeah I agree with you. I can't see the Suns getting a big lead again and blowing it. We have to find a way to keep from falling behind by more than double digits to them. Nash and Amare are too good offensively. Like Parker1 said, you can't bank on Phx commiting the same errors thru-out the series when they have a sizable lead.

[JUUOT]

This game became an instant classic. I really appreciate that you took the time to make game thoughts that matched it. Your best work!

I am a proud spurs fan and a proud spurstalk user!

On the game:

Nash and parker looked average in the first half and i told my buddy something was wrong with them. But this 2, especially nash impressed me so much. You could see they both elevated their game with pure WILL.

I thought phoenix played better. But spurs showed heart and the difference: coaching.

[Spurs Dynasty 21]

timvp, you were dead on about Bowen


I'm glad Pop took him out, because if he's not doing a great job defensively he just hurting the team


and I have a feeling Horry will hit some big shots this series

[wildchild]

I think the Spurs will have more 3's with better ball movement. The Spurs have to force the action and go into attack mode. Is there anyone faster with the basketball than Tony Parker? When TP is penetrating and dishing, the Spurs play their best basketball. The last game of the reg. season was a shining example.

Agree. Except for Tim and Mike with their last and awesome 3's or maybe Brent 3's, the Spurs were erratic all game in the perimeter. We need a better selection of throw and more %FG and 3p% in Game 2 if Shaq and Stoudemire can manage their fouls troubles.

[polandprzem]

I think the Spurs will have more 3's with better ball movement. The Spurs have to force the action and go into attack mode. Is there anyone faster with the basketball than Tony Parker? When TP is penetrating and dishing, the Spurs play their best basketball. The last game of the reg. season was a shining example.

That what I said but you won't get more motion offense woith Udoka or Bowen out there mostly because they are spot up shooters. And damn I was pissed when they watched Tim do his thing other then move or move the ball. Bringing Barry in helped a lot.

And about Manu, damn I was pissed he was taking his shots when he was way off with the target all night long. HE was killing the spurs with stupid mistakes as well. Good that he found another way to the basket esp. with Suns bigs having foul troubles.

[florige]

We basically have to plan for Amare and Shaq both not being in foul trouble Tuesday. Eventually in this series like it or not, Tim is going to have to find a way to score on Shaq. If Shaq gets the timeout after he pretty much picked Duncan's pockets clean we are probably down 0-1.

[naico]

Game 2:

Less Bowen, Oberto - More Thomas, Barry, Horry(if possible)

Udoka has to focus on his energy,defense and passing(down low)

Like Timvp says, play Barry at the point instead of using JV. I wouldn't mind having him, for some stretches, in a line-up of TD, Thomas, him @ the forward position, Ginobili, parker..With TD's nd Barry's passing skills and Gino's creativity this would really benefit the spurs.

I would also like to see a 2-1-2 zone, where Udoka's body could be usefull, him being the one defending the middle. It would help fight the nash/STAT pick n rolls nd the shaq and STAT game down low. With his quick feet nd his strong body, Udoka can quickly close out nd help on the low block.

[Spurs Brazil]

Parker's biggest mistakes defensively were unnecessary fouls and he ended up fouling out in the second overtime.

TP had 3 really stupid fouls. 2 on 3PTA, Nash and Barbosa, and one on Barbosa on that layup from the behind the head pass from Diaw.
But I was very happy with his play in the 2nd half. He was attacking and played a good D on Nash. I hope his terrible 1st half was because of his head injury.


I was extremely unimpressed with Ime Udoka in his first playoff action for the Spurs. He rushed ill-advised shots offensively that got the Spurs out of rhythm.

When Ime was in the game I remember your game thoughts a lot. You always questioned if Ime would be able to help in the playoffs and he did exactly what you fear. Bad shots and playing out of rhythm. I hope we see more Barry and less Ime in game 2.

[polandprzem]

And what was frickin priceless?

Rocky soundtrack when Findog hit that dagger and then calmly went to the bench no emotions. :D

( I just rewatched that play )

[florige]

And what was frickin priceless?

Rocky soundtrack when Findog hit that dagger and then calmly went to the bench no emotions. :D

( I just rewatched that play )




Yeah, that was freakin sweet! Being as though thats what I am currently listening too when I'm at the gym. It fit the situation.

[byrontx]

Thanks for the recap. I have been looking forward to it.

I think the hack-a-shaq is lame as it would normally be used but in this case I think CIA Pop was getting into D'Antoni head. Used like that, its pure brilliance. D'Antoni is going to be second-guessing himself throughout the series.

[Streakyshooter08]

The reason why I think the win helps tremendous is that the Spurs should have a lot of confidence for the upcomming games. They had to come back from 16 points against one of the best offensive team in the league. There are moments that just give you a lot of confidence and those shots should make them feel good.

Win game 2. Believe.

[Elraptor]

Yea if we play like we did the second half in that game the rest of the series, we're going to beat the suns.

[DannyT]

how about the fan base there at the center....were they rowdy and nuts....they should get some kudos if so because that is very much not like them...but ths wasnt a normal game after all either....just would like to know about the fans from someone who was there in other words
:fro

[carina_gino20]

This game could still go either way and as a Spurs fan, I can't help but recall Game 1 of the 06 Mavs series. Mavs made some unforced errors in that one too and the Spurs got away with a win. However, we all know how that series ended up going :depressed

I couldn't help but think the exact same thing. Before Game 1 against the Mavs, they were on a high after closing out Sacramento. Then they sneaked past the Mavs in the first game and that was an emotional game, too. I really hope the Spurs don't let themselves be overwhelmed with all the emotions from Game 1, and just calmly and methodically plan their strategy for winning Game 2.

Oh, and I think Bruce is gonna have a much better game on Tuesday.

[td4mvp21]

While it was an amazing win, it is what it is. Game 1 of the first round series. It took a superhuman effort and lots of unforeced errors on the part of the Suns to win this game. My worry is how the Spurs react and will handle the Suns IF Amare/Shaq DOn't get into foul trouble. D'Antoni is going to turn this in the jumpshooting contest and before the Spurs won the game with late 3 pointers, Suns were actually doing a great job denying the Spurs 3 point shooters. That's why Bowen was driven off the corner 3's and forced to dribble and drive. Finley wasn't able to get clean looks either and Ginobili is obviously still hurt as many of his 3 point shots were flat.

Spurs historically have shown that they struggle to win games when they aren't making 3's. They aren't a great jumpshooting team either. This game could still go either way and as a Spurs fan, I can't help but recall Game 1 of the 06 Mavs series. Mavs made some unforced errors in that one too and the Spurs got away with a win. However, we all know how that series ended up going :depressed



The exact same thoughts crossed through my mind; however, what you have to remember about Game 1 of the Mavs series is that the Mavs did not play their best game while the Spurs did play a lot better than the Mavs. In Game 1 of this series, Phoenix played pretty damn well and the Spurs only played well in the second half and the overtimes. I think that's why it was hard to beat Phoenix because we had already let them get into a rhythm and they were already confident going into the second half. Realistically, the Spurs came out flat and played like crap in the first half. If the Spurs come out like they did in the Jazz game in Game 2, it will put a lot of pressure on the Suns and expect the Spurs to be in control rather than fighting to get back in the game. I may be wrong but that's how I am going to look at it until the Spurs win or lose the series.

And the Spurs weren't getting open threes because they were not moving the ball well at all in the first half. That was why the offense was struggling. If you noticed, the Spurs hit 5 of their 6 threes in the second half due to moving ball. Our 6 threes was one more than the 5 the Suns hit. I'm assuming if the Spurs quit playing 1-on-1 basketball in the beginning of the game they won't get off to such a bad start. Defensively, the Spurs were solid for most of the game. They had some lapses in the first half obviously but a lot of the shots the Suns made were difficult shots and you have to give them props for being a good shooting team. The Spurs contested shots very well and Phoenix made them anyway.

Also, the Spurs were doing better with Shaq and Amare in the game rather than with them out of the game. That's when Phoenix made their run (with Shaq out of the game) in the first half. I think there's a lot to be confident about just as there is a lot to worry about. If the Spurs are to win this series, they aren't going to win it in less than 6 games. It's obviously going to be a very tough thing to do. They didn't play Spurs basketball for a full game last game, so I'm hoping a full game of Spurs basketball will put them in control of a game.

Phoenix did not want to lose that game and they made it apparent from the start of the game. They did not miss in the clutch and every Spurs run resulted in Phoenix countering. I'm very impressed that the Spurs matched that and found a way to win in a game where a lot of things weren't going their way (at the same time, a lot of things ended up going their way because they refused to lose).

[florige]

We have got to find a way to defend that Nash to Amare pick and roll better.

[sabar]

I think the hack-a-skinner and hack-a-shaq were brilliant CIA moves. D'Antoni had no idea what he should do, it was clear that he wasn't prepared for that situation. His solution was to overreact and bench the players putting up bricks.

It's obvious that hack-a-shaq is gimmicky (see: http://www.hakubi.us/lakers/hack-a-shaq/) but I think it was a good choice. Most teams average 1.1 points per possession while taking 7-16 seconds off the clock. Pops moves allowed the Spurs to get extra possessions since the clock obviously is stopped for the FTs. It was a way to make sure the score differential was a bit closer before half so that we wouldn't have to fight a real uphill battle.

Edit: does anyone know how many points PHX averages per possession this season? Curious as to what clip Shaq/Skinner would have to hit FTs.

Did Pop anticipate Shaq/Skinner being benched? I'm not sure. It was probably just the icing on the cake.

D'Antoni was thoroughly outcoached.

[remingtonbo2001]

Great Game, Great Recap.

The slow start concerned me a bit. Especially considering the 8 turnovers in the 1st period, or the lack of Fast Break points during the 1st half. Hopefully it can be chalked up to being a bit rusty. I like their defensive intensity from the 4th period onward, especially Tony.

I would like to push the ball more, with TP in the game, and have Tim run the floor a little more and at the least, have the 4 down set up quickly. With Manu in, I think we could afford to run a little more half-court, pick n roll.

Anyways, it was the most passionate I've ever seen Duncan and it's really special to see that as a fan.

[ducks]

bowen did well on matrix last year
this year matrix is gone

[Budkin]

We have got to find a way to defend that Nash to Amare pick and roll better.

OMG totally... It was pissing me off the way we would double Nash all the way to the baseline while Amare would just keep rolling to the basket for an open layup or dunk. We finally got it by the end.

[Taco]

Was Damon Stoudamire even there?

I looked behind the bench I didn't see him :wtf

[Bulwark]

OMG totally... It was pissing me off the way we would double Nash all the way to the baseline while Amare would just keep rolling to the basket for an open layup or dunk. We finally got it by the end.

Yeah, doubling Nash on the P'n'R doesn't make sense to me either. I would prefer him shooting a 10-15 ft fadeway jumper as opposed to an Amare layup or dunk. But I guess Pop knows best and often times it is not as simple as we fans think.

[T Park]

I'm just wondering where everyone thinks that defending that pick and roll is so easy.

"Gotta shut it down"

Uh well, I'm sure they'd like to, how about thinking, trying to limit it and hope you get a steal cause Nash and Stoudamire are just THAT damn good?

[td4mvp21]

Pop was smart by trapping Nash. I think that was a very good adjustment.

[slayermin]

Great work as usual, timvp.

Game two will be huge. But I think the pressure will be on the Suns. If the Spurs are smart, they will play with even more resolve and heart to keep their proverbial foot on their throat.

[T Park]

Great work as usual, timvp.

Game two will be huge. But I think the pressure will be on the Suns. If the Spurs are smart, they will play with even more resolve and heart to keep their proverbial foot on their throat.

Yeah the Suns tommarow night are gonna come out firing hardcore to get that game, they don't get that game, Shaq has a history of going into operation shutdown. We shall see.

Its almost a must win for the Spurs, cause if you let them win, they go back 1-1 and the Spurs would be lucky to get another game.

[T Park]

Pop was smart by trapping Nash. I think that was a very good adjustment.

Leave Parker on Nash as much as possible.

Parker is fantastic on Nash IMO.

If Giricek starts, put Bowen on Bell. If Barbosa, put Fin on Bell and Bowen on Barbosa.

[td4mvp21]

Leave Parker on Nash as much as possible.

Parker is fantastic on Nash IMO.

If Giricek starts, put Bowen on Bell. If Barbosa, put Fin on Bell and Bowen on Barbosa.

I am mixed about that. I don't see a problem with it unless Barbosa is in the game at the same time. Then again, Bowen on Nash in the fourth quarter seems like a must. I trust Bowen on Nash more so than Parker. And that's not to say Parker didn't do a good job on Nash, because he did. But Bowen is Bowen.

[da_suns_fan]

Leave Parker on Nash as much as possible.

Parker is fantastic on Nash IMO.

If Giricek starts, put Bowen on Bell. If Barbosa, put Fin on Bell and Bowen on Barbosa.

Didn't Parker foul out with Nash going off during the fourth quarter and overtime?

I pray they keep Parker on Nash.

[gwidlon]

thanks timvp for the recap. I very helpful for people like me that enjoys the game but have no real knowledge.
I am new around here and I have one question regarding the hack-a-whoever.
why some people (spurs fans included) thinks it is lame?

I don't pretend to know a much about basketball , and I am trying to learn, but I don't see a difference between that and make the ball bounce on a rival to regain posesion if you are loosing the ball outbounds. Or fouling on purpose when you still have fouls to give or attacking through a bad defender.

I thought that a big part of the game is to exploit the other team weaknesses but maybe I am missing something with the hack-a-whoever stuff..

sorry for my english. I am trying to learn that as well.

[wildbill2u]

I'm just wondering where everyone thinks that defending that pick and roll is so easy.

"Gotta shut it down"

Uh well, I'm sure they'd like to, how about thinking, trying to limit it and hope you get a steal cause Nash and Stoudamire are just THAT damn good?

What's amazing is how all the league players keep their eyes up expecting Nash to make a pass above waist level when most of the time he gives a little bounce pass to the rolling picker. Time after time after time.

Every once in a while our guys will be ready for it (usually while trailing the roller) and create a steal or disrupt the play.

But ya gotta hand it to Nash. He is able to put the ball in the exact spot where it needs to go, even when it looks like there is no opening or angle. And he does it at relatively slow speed, waiting for the moment.

[SpursFanFirst]

Spurs in four!


Wow.
Just...wow.

[T Park]

Didn't Parker foul out with Nash going off during the fourth quarter and overtime?

I pray they keep Parker on Nash.


Yeah that 6th foul where he didn't touch him?

Right.

[T Park]

Wow.
Just...wow.


Damn optimism!!!

[ClingingMars]

Playoff time -- no excuses.

I know its the playoffs and all, but a concussion is a dangerous injury and multiple concussions can be fatal. This is NOT the attitude the Spurs need to employ about Parker's head injury.

- Mars

[Stargazer]

Great post, and good thread, even from a Suns fan. The Spurs had to have Game 1, and they got it. But I'm still feeling pretty good about the series, and I have to think the Suns are, too. Double-overtime on the road, and with Amare and Shaq in foul trouble, allowing TD to have a career game. Anything can happen. But I do agree, Game 2 is starting to look like a must-win game for both teams.


But ya gotta hand it to Nash. He is able to put the ball in the exact spot where it needs to go, even when it looks like there is no opening or angle. And he does it at relatively slow speed, waiting for the moment.

And he does it even when everybody in the building knows he's gonna do it.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

Great post, and good thread, even from a Suns fan. The Spurs had to have Game 1, and they got it. But I'm still feeling pretty good about the series, and I have to think the Suns are, too. Double-overtime on the road, and with Amare and Shaq in foul trouble, allowing TD to have a career game. Anything can happen. But I do agree, Game 2 is starting to look like a must-win game for both teams.

Duncan may have hit a 3, but that game wasn't some kind of career game for him-- Duncan as a primary option is more than capable of going for numbers like that over the course of a series or playoff-- if you remember 2003, there are lots of examples

[bigfundamental21]

This was a fantastic game and the Spurs showed their heart and determination to win. Which is something we have been looking for all season. This series is gonna be tough, but I like how the Spurs started it by never backing down and continuing to "pound the rock". I am looking forward to Tuesday's game!

[Obstructed_View]

If the Spurs start the game the way they finished, the Suns are in deep shit.

[timvp]

If the Spurs start the game the way they finished, the Suns are in deep shit.That's my hope. In the first 20 minutes of the game, the Spurs had 27 points. In the final 38 minutes, the Spurs had 90 points.

Additionally, each stanza the Spurs' points per 48 minutes increased:

2nd quarter - 80
3rd quarter - 100
4th quarter - 112
Overtimes - 115.2

Hopefully this is an indication that the Spurs were figuring more and more out how to score against the Suns defense.

[DAF86]

That's my hope. In the first 20 minutes of the game, the Spurs had 27 points. In the final 38 minutes, the Spurs had 90 points.

Additionally, each stanza the Spurs' points per 48 minutes increased:

2nd quarter - 80
3rd quarter - 100
4th quarter - 112
Overtimes - 115.2

Hopefully this is an indication that the Spurs were figuring more and more out how to score against the Suns defense.

Yeah, but i think that had to do with Shaq and Amare playing matador defense because of foul trouble.

[timvp]

Yeah, but i think that had to do with Shaq and Amare playing matador defense because of foul trouble.I would say that's a possibility but the Suns were without Shaq for almost the whole first half. It wasn't like Shaq was dominating the Spurs until he got into foul trouble.

[jmard5]

We have got to find a way to defend that Nash to Amare pick and roll better.

+1

[boutons_]

Spurs let Amare get 37 ppg last year and took the series.

So I'm not sure how important stopping nearly-unstoppable Amare is.

Spurs have to defend well, and score plenty of points.