ironically, the not so obvious differences are the ones that make this years team a better suited team to win the finals if we get there.
first, so far I think the only team that we were suppossed to beat that beat us this year was the Bobcats and it took them overtime to do it. a huge improvement from last year.
I don't count the Miami loss as such because of Wade. the loss to the Pacers is also null since they beat the Cavs, the Celtics, and Orlando. and the Sacto loss...well they are still Sacto, do I really need to explain myself here?
second, we have grown up. we don't panick and keep our composure. the Celtic games are a good exampe of that.
third, so far this year we have had only 2 losses by double digits. one to the Kings (101-113) and one to the Hornets (105-116). that means that all of the losses we've had with those 2 exeptions we had a chance to win. this is important be cause we have not been blown out this season and as bad as our defense can get we can keep it competitive and we don't seem to give up unlike last year.
fourth, cajones, big ones!
nothing more needs to be said there.
fifth, beleif! yes we beleive. last year we were all pleasantly surprised(the Lakers organization included) that we made it all the way to the finals. this year we all beleive we can make it and the expectation is to win, but not just to win BUT to win in Boston or return the game 6 six humiliation back to them at Staples. anything short than that and season would be a disappointment. (well maybe Sasha 3itchslapping KG would also make it up there)
sixth- Phil also grew up some. he realized that we needed better defense so he put Rambis in charge. although it is taken the team a while to execute consistanly it is way better than last year. we are not all there yet, but we are making progress.
seventh- beleive it or not the Kobester is playing better than he did on his MVP season. he has had less "me" games this season and more "we" games. his stats are not as good, but the team record is better for it. last year he wanted to beleive in his team mates. this year he actually does.
eight- Pau Gasol = ALL STAR
ninth- Drew will return before the playoffs
tenth- we sonned the Celtics in the regular season and looking forward to doing it again the finals.
