Here it is – David vs. Goliath
Dragic vs. IrvingThe 1st of multiple great match-ups. I get the impression that some on this board haven’t seen Dragic play quality minutes – well, make sure you get a chance to next season. In my mind, Dragic matches up well with the young Irving. His euro-style of hardwood quarterbacking will play to his advantage and his fluidity
Bryant vs. HardenBryant hasn’t had the opportunity, for some time now, to have a supporting cast that can carry the load like PHX’s can. He doesn’t have to go full hero-Kobe. He gets to sit back and disect the defense. He gets to post up Harden, play lock-down defense and lead a quality team (one much better that the current Lakers squad). If there is one player that can rally a team past the Superfriends, it’s Kobe “freaking” Bryant – and he wins this match-up.
Granger vs. LeBronWe saw this in the recent playoffs as Granger’s Pacers pushed LeBron and Co. to their limits. No one is shutting LeBron down, but Granger can give as good as he gets. LeBron won’t be cheating off of Danny to go hawk the easy weakside shot blocks. Granger can trade points with LeBron
West vs. LMAThis match-up is a wash. Almost the same player – both efficient scorers and both their teams’ respective 4th offensive option. I guess if you’re the voter, it’s really just a matter of who you prefer.
Noah vs. DwightWhat more could you hope for? The second best defensive C on the first. We’ll be happy giving Dwight the best low-post battle he’ll face all year. Noah is active, energetic and tough as nails. It will be a great fight.
PHX’s Super 6th ManTyreke Evans will be played for all guard minutes not used by Dragic or Bryant creating match-up problems for SEA’s back court. Though untraditional, running Evans at point (where he excels) with Bryant at the two will enable PHX’s guards to draw extra attention in the low post – forcing Howard to split attention from his assignment and help defense on the guard mis-match.
