Game 6: Bold Thoughts

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Miami has faced its fair share of elimination games, but their backs are truly against the wall in this one.

Maybe it’s all the hype, or maybe it’s all just an act, but the Heat have always liked to come from behind and win. However, a Game 6 victory will not be an easy feat. Whether they believe home court advantage will help them win or not, Pop’s troop will make this one even more difficult.

The Spurs are on a miraculous ride. Most people counted them out halfway through the season, when Manu was sitting almost every game, resting his 35-year-old aching body. Everyone picked the Thunder to repeat, or even believed that the Clippers were a series contender. But, the Spurs found unlikely heroes in their younger players, Danny and Kawhi, and the championship mentality has melted into their veins, making Game 6 win-or-go-home scenario for them as well.

The Miami Heat put this team of all-stars together for one reason: dynasty. Pat Riley wanted to build a team that was synonymous with champions. This is their 3^rd straight finals appearance, but it will mean nothing unless they win the next two games. Everything is at stake: reputations, legacies, and possible the core roster. Game 6 will put everything on the line. Obviously these players believe that every game is a must win, but there is no pressure like elimination pressure.

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If the Spurs win, my MVP vote goes to Danny Green. I understand that Tony Parker is the nucleus that ties this group together, but with 25 threes already made, and exceptional perimeter defense on Wade and LeBron makes Green the biggest impact player on the Spurs during the last 5 games. Of course, Tony Parker will win MVP if the Spurs pull out a win in the next 2 games, but Danny Green is certainly deserving of a contract extension, if anything.

I expect Pop to start Manu again. Tiago Splitter has not been cutting it for SA. The Heat see number 22 as a turnover waiting to happen. He is a big man in the paint who looks to pass, making him more strippable than any wench in Westeros. Manu on the other hand, has regained his confidence, and seems to feel agile enough to use every move in his arsenal, and not just a spot-up three. If he continues to play like he did in Game 5, and the rest of that starting 5 to play their game, the Spurs will shock the world.