It’s hard to think of, rooting for the Celtics that is, but it has crossed my mind that in looking at the bigger picture, I should go against my natural instinct to hate and root for them against the Magic.  Reason being, I honestly believe that the Celtics will give the Cavs a harder time in the next round and I’d rather not see Cleveland get a total cake walk to the finals. 

If I remember correctly the home team has won the last 14 meetings (including last year’s playoffs) between these two; in fact the Celts beat Cleveland at home late this season without Garnett.  I know that the Magic have beaten the Cavs this season as well but their style of play doesn’t impress me.  They are a little too erratic and rely way too heavily on the 3-ball.  I think at this point in the season Cleveland would make quick work of them. 

When it’s all said and done I’d still love to see a Lakers/Cavs finals featuring Kobe vs. Lebron (even though it would mean the Lakers would be without home court).  I just think it has all the makings of a real classic but the Cavs need to take a few lumps along the way (like the Lakers have) before the big showdown.

 It also goes without saying that I’d love to see Dallas force a game 6 against Denver tonight (put another little chink in their armor).  And I realize that the Lakers have some unfinished business with the Rockets but it’s hard not to look ahead just the same (especially when watching the other playoff series and trying to figure out who to cheer for). 

If and when the Lakers take care of Houston we should see two of the most intense back to back series in Laker history against Denver and then if they get past them, Cleveland.