The Finals...

The series that no one expected...The new Miami Superteam vs. The old (but new) Mavericks. 
Stars vs. Depth...Youth and Athleticism vs. Veteran Saavy and determination.  This series is big for the NBA.  You have to give credit to the Heat for overcoming their early struggles to find an identity and team chemistry.  They beat two very good teams in the playoffs to make it to this point.  They won every series in 5 games and the big three are starting to put it together at the perfect time. 

The Mavericks have only lost one game since the first round and they've been on a fast track to get back to where it started in 2006.

Very ironic that this is same matchup from 5 years ago.  However the teams are completely different and it's truly a toss up series that could go seven games.

Matchups:

Chandler/Anthony - Chandler should have the advantage in this matchup...Rebounding will be key in this series.

Dirk Nowitzki vs. Chris Bosh - Advantage Dirk...Dirk played pretty decent defense against Gasol and Ibaka...I think he does the same here.

Shawn Marion vs. Lebron James - Advantage LBJ.  Marion is the Mavs best perimeter defender. He will have a tough matchup this series. 

Deshawn Stevenson vs. Dwayne Wade - Should be a huge Advantage for D-Wade after having an average series against the Bulls.

Jason Kidd vs. Mike Bibby - Advantage J.Kidd..he won't have to chase Bibby around like he did against the PGs in OKC.

The Heat have the overall advantage in the starting lineup.  They have 3 stars vs. Dirk and some good vets.  The role players will be key for the Mavs.

Bench:  Terry, Peja, Barea, Haywood vs. Haslem, Miller, Chalmers, Jones

Verdict - The Mavs have a size and scoring advantage off of the bench.  It will be interesting to see what happens if the Heat get in foul trouble.

Dallas swept the Heat during the regular season. Caron Butler played in both of those games so it's a little skewed but it had to be mentioned.

So there you have it...Can the Dallas Mavericks avenge their 2006 loss and solidify Dirk's legacy or will the Heat win the chip and become the next NBA Dynasty?  It could go either way.

Prediction: I'm going with the Mavs in six.  What you think?

Regardless, I can't wait for Tuesday night, It's gonna be a hell of a series. 

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