| 27 March 2010
Here I am, recapping the 93-109 home loss to Orlando with a five day delay...
That's how my stretch at work has been lately, just as annoying as the 24-57 (.338) Sixers.
Magic won their seven straight agains us with a pretty impressive display of power, a strong combination of efficient inside game and torrid outside shooting.
Yes, "it was only the Sixers", but I remian with my opinion that, at full, healthy roster, the Magic are the best team in the Eastern Conference. Good luck LeBron & co trying to stop them in a seven game series.
THREE ANSWERS
1) Yes, Kapono getting the start was shocking to see. He did absolutely nothing in the first quarter, despite playing all twelve minutes He did few the rest of the game. Overall, a missed chance.
2) No, I didn't expect such a good game from Elton Brand, to be honest. He was money in the first half (18 points), and slowed down in the second but also because he didn't get so many touches.
3) No, former Sixer Matt Barnes torching us wasn't a surprise. He often has great games against us, dating from his Golden State Warriors days. Nice addition for Orlando, the guy can play defense also, and will be a factor in the playoffs.
THREE QUESTIONS
1) How annoying is the inability to finish under the rim by our big men? Marreese Speights, Jason Smith and Elton Brand proved their inadequacy facing a strong, tall, athletic frontcourt. Frustrating (more after the jump).2) How did Dalembert match up with Howard? He usually gets destroyed, picking up fouls very quickly, and staying out of the game (in any sense). This time, he at least found a way to put up some good numbers, so solid job by Sam.
But saying that he "limited" Howard (23 + 15 on 9/11 FG) would be a stretch...
3) What's the latest update on our perimeter defense? It still suck, nevermind. After getting absolutely killed by the Magic from behind the arc in the first game of the season, on Oct 28, (16/29, 55%), Sixers did the same on March 1st (15/23, 65%), to complete the job on the 22nd, allowing Orlando to shoot 16/31 (51%).
Make it a total of 47/83 in three games, for a stunning 56% (!!!). You gotta love the coaching adjustments, there.
REASONS
Why we lost the game
Magic have just too many weapons, and are getting hot & ready for the playoffs. I must say I really love this team, the way it was built. I was/am also a fan of the Carter trade, I think they were smart in not resigning (and overpaying) Turkoglu.
To be optimistic
Just keep the losing streak going.
To be worried
During the Magic game I got the impression that Sixers are like 4-5 good players away to become a good playoffs team, LOL.
