With the NBA finals underway, many people are enjoying what could be one of the most televised series in NBA history.
This spectacle is obviously not news to anyone that regular viewer of ESPN.
Ever since LeBron James decided to take his talents to South Beach almost one year ago, many have criticized the way it was done, why it was done, and if it was even the right “decision.”
Critics, fans and players alike all have taken shots at the future of his legacy and have gone as far as burning jerseys in the streets of downtown Cleveland.
Looking back as far as November, newspapers and online blogs ripped the Heat apart after their slow start and far but superb record.
The Heat though, – and LeBron James – have a chance to have the last laugh if they can take down the hungry Dallas Mavericks in what is hyped-up to be a series that our generation of fans has not had since the Michael Jordan era.
Just four months ago, the Heat were described by analysts around the league as not being able to finish big games or beat top tier teams such as the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls.
Despite the critcism, the big three of Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, and James elevated their game upon entering the playoffs and made quick work of both the Celtics and Bulls.
It is hard to disagree that this team is pure Hollywood.
On the other side of the spectrum, we have the seasoned Dallas Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki.
Unlike Miami, they are quiet, and like to do their talking in the locker room.
There are no shows and stages with these Mavericks, no big entrances or chalk claps, just basketball.
After gutting their lineup and replacing it with the likes of Tyson Chandler, Shawn Marion, and Jason Kidd, it is not hard to understand how this team reached the finals in a very tough Western Conference.
One month ago most would’ve had them exiting in the first round of the playoffs, and if not, definitely the second.
But, the motivated and resilient Dirk Nowitzki let his beautiful jump shot do the talking – silencing any doubters night after night.
It is he and teammate Jason Terry – The only two Mavericks remaining from the 06’ Finals team – that came this close before.
They led two games to none before being trounced the next four games by none other than the Dwayne Wade led Miami Heat
So for many people – much like myself – who do not have a true NBA team anymore, these finals are going to be one to watch.
The massive story lines and big names are going to make for great basketball, and great basketball is what we’ve been missing the past decade.
I have not heard players talk about defense more in the past ten years than I have in these playoffs. It is not a score-at-will game to Dallas and Miami and their superstars.
They understand that both sides of the court will have to be played well to hoist the O’Brien trophy.
Truly though, these finals will come down to two people.
For LeBron James, these finals could be the start of his legacy
But, for Dirk Nowtizki, they could cement his.
