Most series in the NBA playoffs have played two games already. A few individuals have displayed an ability to stand out from the rest of the pack and be a difference-maker.
PG- Derrick Rose. He followed up his 36 point performance in Game 1, with a Game 2 exhibition of how to play defense. After just one season, he has shown that he can become a leader and a superstar. Today, he was named Rookie of the Year, the first award in an NBA career filled with so much promise.
SG- Kobe Bryant. Bryant continues to amaze without even trying. He is allowing the game to come to him while feeling out the Jazz. While he has not scored a ton of points in the first two games, no one will be shocked when he hangs 40 on the Jazz in either Game 3 or 4 to put the series away.
SF- LeBron James. LeBron has hit a half-court shot, thrown down unbelievable, highlight-worthy dunks, and made the Pistons look like a Junior Varsity girls team. This man is putting together a playoff performance that shows he is the well-deserved MVP for this season. One word for the Pistons: SWEEP.
PF- Pau Gasol. After he was owned by Kevin Garnett in last year's finals, a lot of people lost hope in Pau being a championship difference-maker in the post. However, few realized that it was really his first playoff run ever. With that experience under his belt, Pau has shown that he is ready to be yin to Kobe's yang. The spin and dunk on Carlos Boozer last night was Top 10 worthy.
C- Yao Ming. The Great Wall did not miss a shot for the first 5 quarters in his series against the Blazers. He is shooting 87% from the free-throw line, amazing considering the fact that traditionally big men are awful from the charity stripe. I would like to see him get deeper position under the basket in order to get easier baskets and more trips to the foul line. If the Rockets are going to make it deep, they need the big man to continue his great performance.
Biggest disappointment(s): Carlos Boozer, without Deron Williams, the Jazz would most certainly be looking at a sweep by the Lakers considering Boozer is showing absolutely no toughness or passion needed to succeed in the playoffs. Dwight Howard. This lovable center needs to show that he can have a killer-instinct in the playoffs, instead of always smiling and goofing around. And finally, Dwayne Wade. I know, I know. He is pure greatness. However, he showed no grit in a 90-64 loss in Game 1 to the Hawks. Come on, Dwayne, we all know that you can take over like Kobe or LeBron. We are waiting.
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