Checking in with the Second Round Playoff Matchups

It seemed like Round 1 just ended, but we're already 6 games into Round 2. I admit, I haven't been able to watch as much basketball lately because of studying for finals, but I've been able to see bits and pieces to know what's going on. Here's a little look at each series.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Dallas Mavericks

• With the Mavs 113-91 victory, the series is tied up at 1.
• Looked like the Spurs finally ran out of gas in Game 2. Mavs controlled the game on both ends, shooting 46% and only turning the ball over 6 times.
• Good to see Tim Duncan back to his normal self, scoring 28 points in Game 2. He also had 9 rebounds and 4 blocks.
• If you can't wait for Game 3, well, find a good hobby, because it's not until Saturday.

Phoenix Suns vs. LA Clippers

• Game 1 was about what I expected. Elton Brand was a beast in the low post (40 points on 18/22 FG), but the Clippers still lost.
• It seems obvious, but you just can't play the Suns pace and expect to beat them. Clippers played about as well as they could, shooting 60% from the field, but it allowed Phoenix to get into their game and have the huge edge in 3-point shooting.
• If Leandro Barbosa makes a habit out of scoring almost 20 a game off the bench, Suns will win this series and be a very dangerous club in the Conference Finals.

Detroit Pistons vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

• Well, Detroit showing just how good they are, dominating both games of this series, regardless of what the score wound up being in Game 2.
• I still can't see anyone beating Detroit in a 7 game series, barring an injury.
• 30 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists for LeBron. Very impressive. Throw in a performance like that, and 2/3 of Larry Hughes, Donyell Marshall, and Flip Murray having a good game, and that's a recipe for the Cavs to steal a game.
• I still think Cleveland will be able to extend this to 5 games, but no further.

Miami Heat vs. New Jersey Nets

• A Nets Game 1 win doesn't surprise me, but 38-21 in the first quarter? Did Miami forget to show up?
• Air Canada, er, Air Jersey to the FT line 19 times in Game 1. Looks like maybe he's starting to shed that soft label. Now the Nets just have to hope they keep winning so Vince keeps trying.
• Richard Jefferson being doubtful for Game 2 is a huge blow, obviously. That is huge defensively and in the open court. New Jersey's half-court offense is not that good, so they need to get out and run, so this is a big blow, especially if he's out for any length of time.
• Obviously, Miami really, really needs this Game 2. Can't go down 0-2 when the first 2 were on your home court.