Christmas Day has come and gone, and with it came also the start of the NBA season. 5 games on the NBA plate and they didn't disappoint. Miami absolutely thrashed Dallas in a Finals rematch, and the Lake Show had their hopes for a win busted by the reigning league MVP in Derrick Rose as the Bulls beat LA by 1. But the real action of the night was in the Oklahoma City/Orlando game. What? Ya'll thought I was gonna sleep on that OKC game? Hell no!
Last years scoring champ showed up again last night, putting 30 on the Magic. Westbrook and James Harden both played well, with both guys shot being a little off but found other ways to contribute. Kendrick Perkins looked lean and quick, and was very mobile on D against Dwight Howard. Serge Ibaka chipped in with a couple key blocks, and OKC's bench really played well. The offensive staple was transition buckets, but the Thunder also played well in the half court and the defense was absolutely great. Orlando was held to just 37% from the field, and just under 29% from the 3 point line (a key feature of Orlando's offense).
The final was OKC 97, Orlando 89 - but it really wasn't that close. This one was mostly a blowout from start to finish. Orlando goes back home to host Houston, and OKC travels to Minnesota to take on a new look Timberwolves team. I hope you all are as excited as I am to see some NBA action on Christmas Day, and the rest of the season to come.
One other item of note: if you get a chance, check out NBA TVs production of a show called "Open Court." Its Ernie Johnson hosting a panel of former NBA stars including Reggie Miller, Shaq, Chris Webber, and Charles Barkley. Its an open and honest look by the players at several topics, including embarrassing moments and players who they felt were their nemeses. The panelists are funny, cover a wide range of NBA experience, and the whole thing is smartly and smoothly facilitated by Ernie Johnson (of TNT fame). If you have the time, I highly recommend checking it out. You won't regret it.
Now that the NBA is back, stay tuned to the Corner Three for news and my take on events during the whole season.
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