Torn on the ORL-CLE series.
I'm glad I wasn't the only one to take off my green glasses, I think both teams are very close (I ended up going with Orlando) and stats prove that. (I would also assume I.P is torn on this series as I would probably rate him up there with you when it comes to evaluating teams and matchups)
So if people disagree with you, they're wearing green glasses and aren't as good as you at evaluating teams and matchups?
I respectfully disagree.
If you would tell me that their was not a "KG Factor" in your decision or didn't really like the Magic because they were being led by Kobe (or my favorite: the achilles injury is definitely going to slow him down etc.) As for your second part, yes. (Of course I'm kidding, I never said I was a better evaluator than anyone all I said was that I.P and Who are 2 of the best at evaluatiing matchups.)
Of course there's a KG factor. That doesn't mean people are wearing green glasses. I have a hard time believing that there's a fan of the NBA who doesn't believe there's a KG factor, after watching how he instantly infused this team with energy, and watching his passion and intensity.
With Kobe, what's a neutral or fair evaluation? I think he's an amazing individual talent who has an amazing drive, but who no longer can consistently win games on his own. Heck, he's never been able to consistently win games on his own. Recently, his teams have performed poorly when he has "gone off" on scoring binges. He needs big contributions from his supporting cast.
What part of the "the achilles will slow him down" argument don't you buy? Guys at his age who experience major injuries are generally going to show some decline, at least initially.