Random Observations: Conference Finals Edition

In the words of the great San Francisco Chronicle sports columnist Scott Ostler, here are my deep thoughts, cheap shots, and bon mots:

---And just like that, the aura of invincibility for the Magic has vanished. The Boston Celtics walked into Amway Arena and stomped all over Orlando in Game 1. Don't let that meaningless late rally fool you, a rally that made the final score of 92-88 suggest a close game. There was nothing competitive about Game 1. The Celtics were the stronger, hungrier, more focused team.

---The fact that Boston controlled Game 1 despite mediocre showings from star players Rajon Rondo and Kevin Garnett is especially impressive. Paul Pierce played extremely well---a terrific sign for the C's---and Rasheed Wallace continues to play superb basketball in the playoffs after a dismal regular season.

---This series is far from over---a Game 2 win puts the Magic right back in the thick of things---but Stan Van Gundy's team has some major work to do if they want to make a return trip to the Finals. Most importantly, Dwight Howard needs to play with far more intensity. There is no denying Howard's incredible athleticism and skill, but there are moments when Howard's jovial personality prevents him from taking over a basketball game. Howard is the best center in basketball, but sometimes he is just too nice and happy for his own good.

---If I'm Stan Van Gundy, I would consider playing Howard and Marcin Gortat at the same time. Gortat is the best backup in the league, and you are wasting his talent if you keep him sitting on the bench. A Howard-Gortat tandem could prevent scoring drives to the lane by Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce. I know it's unconventional, but hey, it could work.

---On to the Western Conference Finals, where I am downright giddy with excitement. I can't wait for this series. The Suns-Lakers matchup could be one of the ages. Gooooooooooooo Suns! Beat L.A.!

---For the Suns to win, they are going to have to find a way to slow down Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. Go ahead and let Kobe do his thing, that's fine. But if Gasol and Bynum turn in big games, Phoenix could be in trouble.

---As for Kobe Bryant, I'd say the best plan of attack is to have Grant Hill guard him man-to-man. Hill is a wily veteran who knows how to defend, and he is capable of limiting Bryant's productivity.

---Ladies and gentleman, savor every moment Steve Nash is on the floor. Nash, who is currently wearing a ghastly black eye, courtesy of San Antonio, is one of the most exhilarating, toughest players the league has ever seen. He is a true treasure.

---You should also savor every moment Sasha Vujacic is on the floor for the Lakers, because he may well be the worst player in NBA history. I will never understand how a terrible shooter who does nothing but loiter at the three-point line gets major minutes on a championship contender. Vujacic must be Phil Jackson's son-in-law. There is no other logical explanation. I mean, the guy just sucks.

---So sit back, relax, and enjoy the glory of the NBA Conference Finals. Let the games begin!