ClutchFans Game Thread: Clippers @ Rockets 5/4/2015 (Playoffs Round 2, Game 1)

Thats what I was thinking !

 

We really need to win the 1st 2 games.

 

And then get one in LA; if we are up 3-1, I like our chances.

 

Cp3 is playing not buying his injury

 

really hoping that mchale puts nick in for defense...he could be huge..

 

hit them hard in the first game. It's critical to set the tone for the first game. Lock Reddick down, don't be afraid to be physical with him. This series is going to be won by defense.

 

I like how everyone thinks putting in Nick Johnson for defense is like the magic trick to stop the other team's best player. I don't want a rookie in the game who can't shoot. I think Brewer and Ariza can cover CP3 just fine

 

He couldn't even guard Barea. And whenever he was put in, the team defense went hectic bad.

Even with gimped Paul, let's wait to see how Terry/Ariza/Brew do before putting in a rookie...

 

This may sound crazy, but I'm just as worried about Crawford and Reddick as I am of Paul. CP3 is going to get his numbers. It's Reddick and Crawford who make the timely shots when the Clippers really need it. Harden is going to have to play both ends at a high level for us to win the series. No taking possessions off.

 

If we're 1-1 or 2-2, I like our chances. Just absolutely can't go down 0-2 or 1-3

 

I agree, but this is why when you have rookie who shows aptitude you need to play him some during the season to help develop his skills so he can be an asset in the playoffs.

It took McHale a long time to get Capela some minutes to see what he can do when he's used to some playing time. Just imagine what could have been with Cannon, who played great while Bev was out early in the season, but then was buried on the bench and traded later.

 

Why do I find myself not concerned a bit about this series and already looking forward to the WCF. Maybe it's the Paul injury situation. But even with a healthy Paul I love the Rockets' chance to advance. It would be shocking if we're not up 2-0 going to LA, and at that point you just need to steal one game to take control of the series.

 

No, we need to win the 1st 4 games :grin:

 

I'm with you on that one. Harden normally guard Barnes on defense, so that'll leave Terry and Ariza guarding Paul and Redick. I'm very worried about Redick and Crawford getting a bunch of open looks, or driving and finding an open Jordan or Griffin after our bugs come help.
This series is NOT going to be easy. It's going to atleast 6 games, and I'm hoping we come out on top.

 

McHale and Dwight need to be in the refs ears early and often so that they officiate him fairly, or at least a semblance of fair. If the Dwight that showed up against the Mavs shows up against the Clips it won't matter how healthy Paul is.

Rockets in 6.

 

Wow... some people truly buy the idea CP3 is hurt. He single handedly won the game for them in game 7. It's good to pretend to be injured if that will let your opponents underestimate you like many fans here.

“He may or may not (play),” McHale said. “The sun may or may not come up tomorrow, but I’m banking on it. We’ll go from there.”

 

I feel the same way. The first round was more critical because of pressure and having a first round jitter. once we got over it, it's all about plays, talent and luck. We should do okay.

 

We need Josh connecting oops with Dwight. A fast tempo for Brewer and Ariza to slash like impalas. We really dont need Harden dribbling the ball slow waiti g for tbe defense to settle and setting up Ariza or Josh for 3s.

 

Easy baskets and variety is the key.

 

It'll be interesting to see how open these are facing a much more athletic front line this round.