The Rockets lost to the Bucks last night. They allowed the tempo to be slowed and couldn't play any defense. Their punishment is to fly back to Houston and play the Cleveland Cavaliers.
This will be a pretty quick preview, so no jump today.
Onto the matchups...
PG: Kyle Lowry vs. Mo Williams:
Both of these guys can ball. Mo is a better shooter, but Lowry is the better point guard. Therefore, they're even.
Advantage: Even
SG: Kevin Martin vs. Daniel Gibson:
Joey Graham had been starting at the shooting guard spot, and then Boobie Gibson got the job as Byron Scott has tried to change it up.
Advantage: Rockets
SF: Shane Battier vs. Anthony Parker:
Parker is the Cavs' perimeter defender, and he's pretty similar to Shane. Not as good, of course, but younger.
Advantage: Even
PF: Luis Scola vs. Antawn Jamison:
J.J. Hickson was supposed to be the stud power forward, but he's been replaced by Jamison since Antawn's knee has become more healthy.
I still think Luis is better.
Advantage: Rockets
C: Chuck Hayes vs. Anderson Varejao:
Varejao reminds me of a more scrappy Joakim Noah. He can hit jump shots and is constantly being the energy guy for the Cavs.
Advantage: Cavs
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Bench:
Cavaliers: Manny Harris, Jawad Williams, Ryan Hollins, J.J. Hickson, Joey Graham
Rockets: Ish Smith, Courtney Lee, Brad Miller, Jordan Hill, Chase Budinger, Jermaine Taylor, Jared Jeffries
Advantage: Rockets
Injuries:
Cavs: None
Rockets: Brooks out, Yao out
Prediction: Rockets should win this
Cavaliers vs Rockets coverage