ESPN experts gave their 5-on-5 preview of who they believe will be champions at the end of 2012 season. Click here for their preview. I wouldn't call myself an expert, but here are my two cents on the same 5-on-5 topic.
1. The most important player in the Finals is _____________.
LeBron James. All 5 ESPN analysts consider LeBron to be the most important player in the Finals and I couldn't agree more. Not that this is LeBron's make it or break it moment, but in more ways than others, it's time for him to win now or reconsider a lot of decisions he and the Heat have made over the past year. Whether he likes it or not, there is a lot on his shoulders and how he responds to this pressure will determine the direction of his legacy. All of the praise/blame will go to LeBron depending on how successful the Heat are.
2. The most important matchup in the Finals is _____________.
The Heat's role players versus the Thunder's role players. It's obvious how important the matchup of James and Durant is, along with Wade and Westbrook, but assuming that James/Wade and Durant/Westbrook play to their potentials, a lot of what tilts the favor to a certain team will be how everyone else plays. Especially how well Bosh and Harden play for their respective teams, considering their positions as third scoring options. Also, if Chalmers, Battier, and Haslem can contribute, the Heat will be a tough team to beat. Likewise, if Ibaka, Perkins, and Sefolosha can contribute some offensive along with their great defense, the Thunder will be very hard to beat.
3. The most important X factor in the Finals is _____________.
Chris Bosh. It was obvious how much the Heat missed him during their matchup with the Celtics and it was proven how important he could be, especially in game 7. He kept the Celtics defense honest, especially being able to hit from beyond the arc, so if Bosh can continue to score and grab some rebounds, he can really be the difference maker for the Heat.
4. The first sign you'll be looking for in the Finals will be _____________.
How aggressive Dwyane Wade starts out. There's no question that LeBron needs to come out of the gates swinging, so it'll be interesting to see how Wade starts the series considering his subpar performance against the Celtics. With the Thunder having the better "team," how Wade plays will be very important for the success of the Heat. But watching how the young Thunder respond to the pressure of the finals will also be of something to note.
5. The winner of the Larry O'Brien Trophy will be _____________.
The Miami Heat. It's really tough to outright say which team will win, but I'm going with the Heat on this one, due mainly to the fact that LeBron James needs to win it now. I'm not saying he won't ever get a chance at a championship again, but it might be the last time he does with this squad. If LeBron wants to be considered the best, he needs to win titles. Simple as that.
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