Camerato: Top 5 Matchups to Watch in 2008
The NBA season won’t start until November, but there are already must-see moments in the making. Read on for five circle-your-calendar matchups …
1. Al Jefferson vs. Kevin Garnett
Jefferson said it was a compliment to be traded for Garnett, but he never wanted to leave Boston. It’s no secret that Big Al is going to develop into a big time player, and where would it be more rewarding to prove that than in Boston? Expect Jefferson, who plays with his heart on his sleeve, to leave his blood, sweat, and tears on the court when he faces off against KG.
2. Rasheed Wallace vs. Anderson Varejao
‘Sheed called it a flop, the refs called it a foul. Either way, Varejao’s spill in the Eastern Conference Finals got into Wallace’s head. He let his emotions take over his game, and the rest of the Cleveland Cavaliers upset is history. But how will Wallace play the next time he faces off against Varejao? Don’t expect him to ease up on his offensive aggressiveness, and Varejao may find himself on the floor again.
3. Greg Oden vs. Kevin Durant
This has been one of the most hyped match ups since the two rookies were in college. Either one of these guys could have been the top pick in this year’s draft, and many already predict Kevin Durant to win Rookie of the Year Honors. This match up will be a showcase of talent – look for Greg Oden to hustle down low to prove why he was Number One, while Kevin Durant will rain buckets to show the Blazers just what they’re missing.
4. Al Horford vs. Joakim Noah
Joakim Noah did more than just help the Gators win another title when he returned to Florida -- he helped teammate Horford steal his spot as a top three draft pick. Horford became ‘the next big thing’ and Joakim Noah was suddenly ‘so last season.’ Now in the NBA, Horford is deemed as an up-and-coming big man while many questions Noah’s ability to succeed in the pros. Joakim Noah has more to prove in this match up … will there be another
5. Shaun Livingston vs. His Leg
It was the most cringe-worthy moment of the season, and now it has become Shaun Livingston’s biggest opponent to overcome. While other players worry about whether or not they can score and rebound, Shaun Livingston is forced to worry about whether or not he can run and jump. No one that Shaun Livingston faces will pose more of a challenge than that of reclaiming his NBA career.
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