Ballin': Steve Nash Got the Wrong Shorts & Gordon Hayward Went Off Against the Lakers
By Jason McIntyre
Washington 107, Detroit 105: Austin Daye missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer and the Wizards won their third straight game. John Wall’s closing the season strong, too – he had 26 points (14-of-16 FTs) and 12 assists, and Andray Blatche added 26, too. I’ll probably pick the Wizards to make the playoffs next year, assuming they don’t bungle the draft. Greg Monroe, who has quietly had a nice rookie season, scored 22 points and took 14 rebounds, but missed two free throws late.
Chicago 97, Phoenix 94: Steve Nash had a wardrobe malfunction. Later, he made a slick pass between the legs of Carlos Boozer. It was the prettiest of his 16 assists.
New York 131, Toronto 118: Mike D’Antoni, what are you thinking? A meaningless game against the lowly Raptors and you play Amare 35 minutes? Start saving his knees now – for next year. Be honest, Mike – is it to restore his confidence since he knows ‘Melo has taken the team over? Tony Douglas & Anthony combined to shoot 11-of-16 from three. Rookie Ed Davis of Toronto tallied 22 points and 13 rebounds. He’s had a nice six-week run and looks like a keeper.
Boston 99, Philadelphia 82: In the 76ers’ first game without Lou Williams, it was obvious how pivotal he was to the rotation. The Celtics shot 52 percent; the 76ers 39 percent. I’m not sure if Philly will take one from Boston in the playoffs without Williams. The Celtics won’t have to worry about Shaq’s absence until the 2nd round.
New Jersey 107, Minnesota 105: The Deron Williams impact – he had 21 assists. The Nets had 42 baskets. Williams hit the game-winner, too. And an obligatory Anthony Randolph watch, because the season’s almost over – 20 points, 10 rebounds in 29 minutes.
San Antonio 97, Atlanta 90: Antonio McDyess, you got served, son. This loss, combined with LA’s surprising home loss to Utah (Gordon Hayward went off!), means the Spurs will keep the No. 1 seed.