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Mike Gorman suggested to Doc that Sam Cassell was being used in a role similar to that of Vinnie "Microwave" Johnson.

For those who don't recall, Vinnie Johnson was the third guard on a Pistons team that featured Isiah Thomas at the 1 and Joe Dumars at the 2. Vinnie was short, muscular, and a volume shooter -- i.e., a more extreme version of Tony Delk. When The Microwave came in, Dumars would play offensive PG, but continue to cover opponents' taller guard on defense.

That's not Cassell's role on the Cs. When he's on the floor for Rondo, he's the closest thing to a PG the Cs have. Before the season, I expected Allen to play the Dumars role, albeit with less defense. I was wrong; even as Allen has been a pleasant surprise on defense, the accuracy of his passing has been distressing. So Cassell has to be a much more consistent distributor than he's been to date.

And I say that even after a game in which his scoring was obviously very helpful.

Cassell should be used in the same Vein as Popovich used Speedy Claxton a few years ago , the closer and a veteran presence when it comes down to the wire.

Casell is a scorer off the bench, and more importantly, he is a organizer.

I loved the way he played in the 2nd quarter tonight. He has to be aggressive and look for his shot, but he also has to find a balance.

Casell is going to be useful this round because Delonte and Boobie can't take him off the dribble.

If this was him trying to guard Jameer Nelson or Chauncy, then we will be in trouble.

But, the Cavs can't exploit him or Ray Allen. Becuse of that, I think the Cavs fail.

After the Hornets, th Hawks were probably the most athletic team in the playoffs. Cavs are a good team, but they aren't nearly as athletic on the win and that poses a problem for their offense even if LeBron is playing well.

I agree Sam was very good last night...he even had some nice passes. If he plays like *THAT* and not the chucker he has been in some of the previous games, I'll love the guy!