Denver Nuggets (2) vs. Dallas Mavericks (6)

Western Conference Semi-Finals

Expect the unexpected. Even though our predictions of a Denver win in round 1, we certainly did not expect the disappointing score and lack of performance from the Hornets. This was a clear indicator how hungry the Nuggets were, and quite possibly still are, as they move on to take on the Dallas Mavericks, a charged up team led by a revived Dirk Nowitzki, that easily took out the Spurs first round, 4-1. The improved Mavs proved to be a strong playoff contender with their agility on the court, ability to play defense as much as offense on the inside and outside the arc. Face off between the Nuggets and Mavericks will be a hell of a matchup – both squads are at the peak of their game, and it’s anyone’s series. Stay tuned as tip off for game 1 of the conference semi-finals series begins Sunday May 3rd.

Regular Season: Denver won 4-0.

Nov. 7: at Denver 108, Dallas 105

Dec. 15: at Dallas 88, Denver 98,

Jan. 13: at Denver 99, Dallas 97

Mar. 27: at Dallas 101, Denver 103

Starting 5

Point Guard (Chauncey Billups v. Jason Kidd)

Both Kidd and Billups have experience in the league, Kidd in his 14th, and Chauncey in his 11th. But they don’t call him Mr. Big Shot for nothing. Chauncey Billups has been a key player for Denver, he’s proved that by averaging 25 points in the first round. It really just comes down to someone who can run point by feeding his team AND pose a threat by putting up shots. Billups edges J-Kidd offensively, and will be that threat.

Edge: Nuggets

Shooting Guard (Dahntay Jones v Antoine Wright)

Upon their playoff encounters, expect Dahntay to come off strong in the defense, as he was one of the proven players to help guard and put a stop to Chris Paul in the previous round. Additionally, statistically Dahntay brings more to the offensive table than Antoine.

Edge: Nuggets

Small Forward (Carmelo Anthony v Josh Howard)

Quite possibly one of the better matchups yet, Carmelo and Josh are both aggressive on the offense and will be at each other each night. Josh Howard brought his A-game early in these playoffs to get off critical shots, becoming the third most valuable scorer on this Mavs team. If anyone is going to make or break this game, Josh Howard will be a huge factor. All-star, Carmelo Anthony is constantly attacking the basket and has averaged 21 points, 6 rebounds, and almost 6 assists the first round of playoffs. Howard will have to continue to be a scoring machine to keep up with Carmelo.
Edge: Nuggets

Power Forward (Kenyon Martin v Dirk Nowitzki)

While K-Mart will hold his own on the inside, Dirk is an all-around player to reckon with from all ends of the court. And this resurgence of energy and ability to average almost 20 points and 9 boards in the first round, emphasizes how skilled Nowitzki’s game is. If the Mavs want to win this, Dirk will be leading the way.

Edge: Mavericks

Center (Nene v Erick Dampier)

While current playoff stats show Nene and Erick Dampier to be even averaging 8 points and 8 boards per game, Nene’s intensity ranks him over Dampier. Nene will be the aggressive force inside, and his quickness will give him the advantage, easy.

Edge: Nuggets

The Bench

Talk about bench power. On one hand you’ve got J.R. Smith who is always a tremendous threat knocking down necessary shots, and Chris Andersen will surprise you with some theatrical dunks throughout the game. The other, you get outstanding sixth man of the year JET letting his reign. It might even be a showdown of three pointers, but who will be left standing? JJ Barea is another benchie to watch, he’ll be quick on his feet. The Nuggets are slightly deeper than the Mavs in terms of bench talent, and will be the bigger difference maker in this round.

Edge: Nuggets

Intangibles

Both teams have proven in their first round performances that they can defy odds and expectations and that playoffs is a whole ‘nother world from the regular season. While Mavs have shown even an underdog team can come up and run past their opponents, the Nuggets have demonstrated they can win and possibly even slaughter their esteemed opponent. But if we’re sensing a hunger, a longing, and sheer drive – the Nuggets have it. This is a chance for Chauncey to help the Nuggets bring a ring home for his hometown Denver, and he’s got that fire in his eye that’s translating into his game. You don’t have to be present at the Pepsi Center in Denver to feel it, that spirit penetrates through the TV.

Edge: Nuggets

3 Questions

1) Will Dirk still play ridiculously well enough to give Mavs another chance at defying odds of being the underdog this series?

2) Will Chauncey rightfully deserve title as Denver’s hometown hero?

3) Will Mark Cuban be a (un)happy camper at the outcome of this series?

Prediction

This is going to be a brutally competitive series, these two teams in the west have played stellar games the first round, and will undoubtedly continue that streak these next games. It’s always known defense wins championships, and though we’re still early in the playoffs, defense is still a priority and deciding factor for the way this series will turn out. The Nuggets have done an amazing job defending the Hornets, and have also shown they are able to shut the Mavs down during the regular season. Now, we’ve yet to find out whether the Nuggets will continue to bring on the defensive pressure and keep the Mavs from turning on. JR’s another piece to the Nuggets puzzle, and if he continues to shoot three’s as he has, this will help bring it in Nuggets’ favor. With Billups, Carmelo, and Nene to fend off, the Mavs have a much tougher challenge on their hands.If the Nuggets continue to lock down on D and stay on fire on the offense, they’re bound to take this series, though it will be a battle to the end.

Nuggets win 4-3