Every day during the NBA playoffs, the Triple Threat will break down the latest action as we get closer to awarding the Larry O'Brien Trophy.San Antonio 102, Phoenix 96 It was deja vu in San Antonio. The Suns took a double digit lead, only to blow it and fall to the Spurs. The only difference is it didn't take two overtimes for it to end. The Spurs blew the game open in the third quarter, outscoring Phoenix 27-11. The Suns tried to come back with a 10-0 run late, but all that did was get them within five, which was as close as they got. The Spurs now lead 2-0, and obviously have the Suns against the wall.
New Orleans 127, Dallas 103 Before this series, some people were picking Dallas based on their playoff experience compared to the Hornets lack of. That should be put to rest with this game, where the Hornets set a lot of franchise records in regards to playoff offense. Chris Paul led the way. Despite being double teamed most of the way, he finished with 32 points and a franchise record 17 assists. The Hornets scored 39 in the first quarter, taking a 10 point lead that would keep them from being seriously threatened. The Hornets haven't won in Dallas since 1998, but the Mavs are up against the wall down 2-0.
Orlando 104, Toronto 103 Despite trailing by 17 after the first, the Raptors still had a chance to win late. However, Chris Bosh missed a 19 footer with 1.9 seconds left, and the Magic escaped. Orlando won despite shooting 9-31 from three point range, thanks to another huge night from Dwight Howard: 29 points and 20 rebounds. Thus, the Magic lead the series 2-0.
Best Lines
- Chris Paul, NO: 32 pts, 10-16 FG, 12-14 FT, 5 rebs, 17 ast, 3 stl
- Dwight Howard, Orl: 29 pts, 12-17 FG, 20 rebs (7 off), 1 ast, 1 stl, 3 blk
- Tony Parker, SA: 32 pts, 3 rebs, 7 ast, 3 stl
Game 2: Philadelphia at Detroit (7:30, NBATV)
Game 2: Atlanta at Boston (8:00, TNT)
Game 2: Denver at LA Lakers (10:30, TNT)
Share your thoughts on Tuesday's playoff action and give your predictions for Wednesday's games.
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