First and foremost, Magic fans need to drop the whole "Great game stuff." Because it seems superficial and phony to me. You guys are enjoying the whole prospect of driving our guys crazy with the matchups, as well you should. But, please - don't come in here and pretend you care about Cavs basketball when you don't. Talk strategy, sure, but don't come in here and expect some of the more fiery fans to treat you with the same respect because it does come across as facetious.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0undbzvIsag
Cavs fans, these are the types of moments that define the type of team that you are. These periods of adversity provide lessons and experience. LeBron always says that he will accept a loss as long as the team continues to improve. While the Cavs are struggling offensively outside of LeBron, there was an increased effectiveness on defense last night. We've been extremely close all three games and you have to give the Magic credit. Overlooking the matchup nightmares they cause, they are a great team.
We are struggling against the law of averages. First two games it was perimeter (and even overall opponent) percentages. Last game, Dwight Howard channeled Ray Allen at the free throw line. The most important thing that the Cavs need to do now is not panic. Same goes for us as well. I personally like having the underdog role. Call me naive, call me stupid, but I still believe. I'm an optimist by nature and try to find good things from struggles and move on. This is crunch time. Doesn't it make winning that much more delicious after having to battle? I know it means more to me.
Honestly, what good does it cause each one of you who is angry, scared, and depressed? There's nothing any of us can do to change anything. I respect and love being a part of such a dynamic and entertaining forum, but some of you are acting like Stan Van Gundy. I'm only 24, so perhaps I'm not as jaded or scarred as others. Maybe I'm not able to offer as much expert analysis or solutions as others, but it's not like what we come up with even makes its way to the coaching staff anyways. We mock and tease other fanbases for being whiny bitches, why not keep the faith?
Keeping on topic: I don't like LeBron on Rafer Alston. Delonte is an excellent defender, put Delonte on Rafer at the beginning of the game to pressure the ball. At the very least he should switch between Rafer and Courtney with Mo to keep the defense from getting stagnant as Orlando make certain plays. Delonte gives up too much height to stick with Turkoglu. Since Turkoglu is their secondary point guard, I would keep LeBron on him primarily, especially when Rafer is out of the game. LeBron needs to switch up with guarding Turkoglu and Lewis. He should be on one of those two the entire game.
Alston guarded by Delonte
Lee guarded by Mo
Turkoglu guarded by LeBron
Lewis guarded by Andy
Howard guarded by Z
Rotational defense off the bench
Sasha guards Lewis or Pietrus
Joe guards Lewis
Ben guards Howard
Wally guards ?
Offensively, the pick and pop must return with either Z or Joe. Cutting MUST occur, Andy has been a non-factor since Game 1. He's an effective cutter and has been hitting his FTs. He needs to move and irritate Howard. The team needs to suck it up and move their bodies. I know many of them are tired because of long minutes and tough defensive assignments, but they must move. Z and Joe cannot be allowed to shoot any more 3s. I'd rather see Z make Howard work on the defensive end. He's just got to move his feet and work that hook shot. When he's out on the perimeter, he cannot offensive rebound or work his tip magic. Initially, establish him with some pick and pops, but he needs to mix it up with Howard. Mo was showing life before the elbow and Delonte needs to be more aggressive. Drive at Howard, get their team in foul trouble. He's a great driving and slashing guard. Players like Sasha and Wally need to be prepare to move the ball and shoot the ball when you receive an open look. At this point, fear needs to disappear. Too many times I've seen Delonte or someone open but hesitant and it allows the defender to roar back and force a pass. This team hangs its hat on defense and trust, well it's time to show it. Turnovers were a big factor and gave the Magic almost 1/5 of their total points, that's gotta stop especially on the road.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOfOjXywdbo