Among the many over-used terms in sports is this one: 'Must-Win'.
Clearly, the term's only literal application occurs when a team faces elimination. However, its use as a practical term gives us license to misuse. I hope my use here is acceptable.
The C's must win Game 1 or Game 2. Obviously, Game 1 is neither a literal or practical must-win, but I'd hate to lose Game 1, because that would immediately make Game 2 a very early must-win. Why? I simply cannot see the C's winning 3 straight at home against the Lakers. Going back to LA down 3-2 is not acceptable. The C's need to prevent the uphill climb of having to win the last two in LA. The best way to prevent this scenario is win Game 1 or 2. This is me doing what my wife says I do best: stating the obvious.
If you accept this logic, then please share your thoughts about the C's likelihood of grabbing Game 1 or 2. With 5 full days of rest, I am hoping that Rondo, TA, Baby, Sheed, Perk and KG are all back to Game 1-Orlando form. But what if they aren't? Kobe is also resting -- he looked great in the Suns series and will be chomping at the bit to eat the C's up in Game 1 -- you know, send a message/set the tone, and all that. If the C's get swallowed up by the LA energy in Game 1, then what are your thoughts about the C's capacity to regain control in Game 2?
Yes -- the C's have been a good (perhaps great) road team when healthy this year. That's the away-court advantage folks have alluded to in other threads. But against LA? Against rested and highly energized LA?
I realize this is idle speculation -- it's anyone's guess what will happen in the first 2 game -- but I am convinced we'll need one of them to win #18 and I just would like to hear some of your realism and perhaps a dash of optimism (or pessimism if you must) about these first 2 games. Perhaps you can help ease some of Neurotic Guy's anxiety (apolgies for the third person reference).
