All information is for news matter only
All games are graded on a scale 1-4 stars
Lines are subject to change
PRO BASKETBALL — May 13
Game 5 — Western Conference Playoffs
SAN ANTONIO (+4) at NEW ORLEANS (Total 186.5) — If you recall, in the first two games of this series, the Hornets ran by the Spurs in the second half like they weren’t even there. But one of the things that should prevent that from happening again is the defensive game plan San Antonio has been employing the last couple of games; that is, to let Chris Paul score points but restrict the capability of people he might dish the ball off to, namely Peja Stojakovic, whoe outside shooting killed the Spurs in games One and two, but who has been held to just 14 points and five field goals in the last two contests. It’s no accident, either. Bruce Bowen, the All-Defensive team perennial, is locking down on him. That seems to have a domino effect, as Paul had difficulty finding David West as well in game 3 (just ten points). And Tim Duncan got rolling, with a 10-for-13 night and 15 rebounds that should give New Orleans plenty of pause. We admire the Hornets’ mental toughness, but we may be seeing experience showing up, and “Plan B” is more difficult than expected for Paul & Co.
JAY’S PLAY: SAN ANTONIO **
