Quote:
Originally Posted by miami_fan
According to the Suns, Shaq was brought in for rebounding and low post defense. At some point during the 4th qtr and the overtimes, Shaq has to throw caution to the wind and actually play the aggressive defense in the paint they expect him to play.
|
4th quarter:
1:15 Ginobili Layup Shot: Missed Block: O'Neal (3 BLK)
OT:
1:57 Duncan Jump Shot: Missed Block: O'Neal (4 BLK)
0:29 Duncan Turnover:Lost Ball (4 TO) Strip: O'Neal
I would say three key defensive plays in the last 2 minutes of the 4th and OT is making a pretty big impact on defense. Shaq blocked Duncan and stripped him in the final 2 minutes. After the second one, Phoenix had the ball and a 3-point lead with 30 seconds left. Amare got the stupid charge foul with 12 seconds left. If he just grabs the ball at the top of the key, wait 3 seconds and shoots - the Suns probably win. O'Neal wasn't the reason they lost, two bonehead plays by Amare (charge and fail to double Finley on the first 3), poor matchups by Mike D and Nash's inability to foul Manu were the 3 reasons. But, again, none of that matters unless a career 19% 3-point shooter (16% postseason) who was 0-4 in the entire 07-08 season hits a 3 with 3 seconds left. Coaching is mostly setting up your players to have the best chance to win and I can't really think of a higher % chance that Duncan from 3 for the Suns to get a win. It didn't happen, like Amare said "Happy Birthday Mr. Duncan."