Episode 30 – The Jazz are still alive
The 2006-2007 season for the Utah Jazz has been a roller coaster ride ever since they tipped off against the Houston Rockets, and they have carried that trend right into the playoffs. After losing their first two playoff games in uninspiring fashion I was just hoping for a token “W” so they didn’t get swept by McYao and Company. Then, the Jazz win two in a row at home and look good enough doing it that I start to consider how to fit the next round in my busy schedule. Just when I start thinking about how Deron “Slick” Williams could contain Baron Davis, the Jazz lose a critical nail-biter after a fourth quarter collapse. I suppose a case could be made that I am investing too much of my emotional well-being in a group of overpaid professional athletes, but I don’t care. I’m on the ride, and even enjoying parts of it.
The Utah/Houston series has been excellent in my opinion, even though the only arguably consistent performers have been Carlos Boozer and Yao Ming. Tracy McGrady has had some great games and Williams has been decent, but it has been tough on most of the other players. I have also been impressed with the level of respect the players and teams have shown each other. Win or lose, there have been compliments in the media between teams, and a great deal of sportsmanship, comparatively speaking. Don’t misunderstand, I know both teams are determined to win, and it has been a very physical series; but there have been no technical fouls called and a pleasant absence of cheap shots. If this keeps up through the remaining game(s) – certainly possible, if not outright probable – I may just find myself a fan of the Houston Rockets after everything is said and done. Not to replace the Utah Jazz, of course, but more in the interest of branching out.
This is a big step for me. I don’t think I have ever watched a playoff game or series involving one of my favorite teams and had my opinion of the opposing team actually improve. I may have felt grudging respect or thinly-veiled pity, depending on the outcome, but not actual admiration and appeal. I’m not sure what all of that means, but I think it’s a good thing, right?
One other big news item came out right as we were getting this ready to go, and that was the coaching change at
I’m sure these changes have come as a result of the disappointing beginning to RSL’s season, particularly as they are fighting a political battle as well as on the pitch. Dave Checketts really, really, really needs them to play well right now and prove their place in the sports landscape, but two draws and two losses just isn’t going to cut it. RSL hasn’t scored a goal that counted in MLS standing since April 7th, and seems to be doing their level best to prove the doubters correct. I suppose a change in coaching could turn the season around, but I’m not sure how permanently removing one of their most consistent players will really improve things. I suppose time will tell.
Our Top Three in
3. Jerry Sloan
2. Mehmet Okur
1. Carlos Boozer
There is much more in the podcast, including an explanation/justification of our Top Three, so please check it out.
We would like to thank our sponsor, ShieldZone Corp. Please check them out the invisibleSHIELD for all of your gadgets. We would love to hear from you!
posted by Nate and Zach @ 2:36 PM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home