The reigning Least Champs tasted defeat for the first time in 15 games at the hands of the previous Least Champ. The way the game went it's hard to believe Boston is the old team. The Leprechauns took it to the Magic harassing all afternoon long forcing Superman to become an offense threat while keeping the long distance bombers in check. Leprechauns led my as many as 20 pts against a team that had not trailed by double digits this post season, this is not the Bobcats or Hawks. The Magic did make several runs but could not get the stops and in the end just ran of time. For the most part it was a clean game except for 'Sheed trying to get under Superman's skin, does he need to be an A$$hole to be productive? 13 pts, 2/5 from downtown 5/6 free throws, you gotta wonder. Even with Crabs out, the commentators somehow managed to still kiss King Crabs ass giving credit to his defense for Paul Pierce's fast start. Leprechauns got what they wanted at least a split, Orlando has to bounce back and considering how crappy they played they only lost by 4 and on two occasions took a huge bite from the Boston lead. Will not be surprised if game 2 is a rout.
Player of the game: Ray Allen led Boston with 25 pts, dished out 3 asts, pulled down 7 boards and just 1 turnover. Remained aggressive, if he continues this kind of play, Boston looks very favorable to return to the big dance.
X-Factor: 'Sheed. Several "experts" picked Boston to win it in the pre-season mainly due to the addition of Wallace. As bad as he was during the regular season, it's a big plus when he contributes. Besides his 13 pts off the bench he helped harass Superman and made him work for his points.
Should've Been Benched: Rashard Lewis was a no show 2/10 shooting, 6 pts, none from downtown, he was pretty much non-exitent.
Keys to next game: For Boston, they need to hold on to leads, during the regular season, no team gave up more double figures leads than them. They're D has been good and the bench has to continue to contribute.
Orlando has a little more work to do, Dwight and Rashard need to step up, if the 3 isn't there, Rashard should still have quickness advantage over KG or Big Baby. Dwight needs to be patient and not force it if not in good position, which is another key point, those getting the ball to Superman must give it to him in a good position, time and time again he caught it at a bad spot made worse when instead of resetting he forced it. And also by all means cut down on the turnovers, Dwight had 7 all by himself. I say Magic win game 2.
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