How so? I don't think Phoenix will end up pushing anyone out of the playoffs. And there are way too many games left to start thinking that wherever a team is right now is where they'll be in 3 weeks. Portland could easily overtake Denver and assure themselves of a top 4 seed.
I'd say the Suns should be happy to only be down 8 considering some of the questionable calls in the 1st half. Let's see how the Suns' legs respond in the 2nd half. They managed to stay in the game with Shaq, Nash and Richardson all playing well. Maybe Swift can knock down a few more treys. Portland will likely make a big run in the 3rd. Phoenix will be dead if Portland has a big lead going into the 4th.
I think they are completely different players. Rudy is a butterfly. Manu is a gritty player who can drill the perimeter shot if left open. If Rudy ever learns to create off the dribble and finish at the basket like Manu, he will be a special player. The Suns pillow-soft defense is perfect for Rudy.
The Suns went all out in the 1st half, including the coach. They were hoping to psyche out the Blazers and give themselves a chance in the 2nd half. I don't think it worked. The Blazers are growing up fast and were more than willing to fight back. I agree. The Blazers are in control. They could put it out of reach in the 3rd quarter if they come out aggressive.
That's exactly what I was thinking when Rudy was about to check in. If this game gets out of hand, Rudy could go for 30 tonight.
I don't like him that much, but I feel sorry for Matt Barnes. He has no chance at all against LaMarcus Aldridge. It's borderline abuse.
I'm still in awe at how well Shaq played tonight. If it weren't for him, the Blazers would be up by 20 or more right now easily. I didn't think he'd have a good game tonight. Sure, Nash and Richardson are bringing it but I am not as surprised to see that. If the Blazers come out hot after this timeout, it's probably lights out for the Suns - both in this game and possibly the season as well with a game in Utah up next.
That's a little exaggerated! I do think they have some things in common, e.g., high energy! Actually, Rudy's playmaking is quite impressive. Of course, I think you are right about his finishing at the basket. That's a field that he needs to improve!
Short of a 4th miracle from the Suns, I really do think this is it for them. I don't see them beating a well rested Utah team in Utah this weekend and two straight losses will be too much to overcome. Shaq will miss the playoffs for the first time since his rookie year.
Both guys are definitely Energizer Bunnies! Rudy does make some plays by passing, but he's a soft player. Manu is tough and you HAVE to respect him off the dribble. Even if Rudy doesn't turn into a great finisher, if he just learns to pull up from mid-range, he will be tough to guard. It's great to see him back to form after returning from the flagrant foul. That sequence to close the 3rd quarter was incredible. The Suns playoff hopes will die Saturday in Salt Lake City. Rudy's dunk in the Olympics was great, but he hasn't shown much grit in the NBA. Maybe it will take time.
