KEY
MATCHUPS |
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Steve
Nash vs Tony Parker |
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Raja
Bell vs Emanuel Ginobili |
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| Tony Parker and the Spurs have had some success slowing down Steve Nash in the past. That must happen again for San Antonio to come out a winner. |
Bell is one of the best shooters on his team, but the Suns can live without him scoring. Not the same case with San Antonio and Ginobili. They are both good defenders. |
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Boris Diaw vs Bruce Bowen |
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S.
Marion vs Robert Horry |
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| As usual, Bowen will just be required to play tough defense and hit open three-pointers. Diaw's role is not so well defined – especially after the return of Stoudemire from injury. |
Horry is a clutch player in the playoffs again after a terrible regular season with the Spurs. His shooting is a great asset for San Antonio. All in all, though, he's nowhere near the player Marion is. |
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A. Stoudemire vs Tim Duncan |
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L.
Barbosa vs Michael Finley |
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| What will prevail: Amare Stoudemire's quickness and athleticism or Tim Duncan's finesse and basketball IQ? The outcome of this matchup could determine the fate of this series. |
Barbosa is the Sixth Man of the Year for a reason. The Brazilian guard is an incredibly consistent contributor off the bench with his scoring punch. Can't say the same about the veteran Finley. |
