Fuck Yea[h] NBA

Another overtime game last night—this one I actually caught—was the Los Angeles Clippers 107-102 victory over the Orlando Magic in Orlando. The game saw Jameer Nelson return from a concussion to play, and Chauncey Billups go out with an ankle roll. 

The way the Clippers came back in OT to win is proof Chris Paul was the most important trade of the off-season, and I don’t think that would have changed if Dwight had been dealt to New Jersey or the Lakers. Brian Schmitz argues as much in the Orlando Sentinel today, claiming “dastardly, David Stern” was the “official who made the most impact last night.” Paul’s inclusion in the game WAS the difference, so Schmitz is right.

Stan Van Gundy could have drawn a sizeable fine from the league’s front office if he had analyzed what really happened Monday night.

The official who had the most impact on the Magic-Clippers game at Amway Center was….Dastardly David Stern.

The Clippers had Chris Paul, CP3, the Magic did not. Neither do the Lakers, who are ticked off more than anybody.

Paul scored 13 of his 29 points in the 4th period and OT, and the Clippers overcame Chauncey’s ankle injury to win. At the time he rolled his ankle, Chauncey had hit 6 3-pointers for the Clippers. It didn’t matter as the wiley Paul sliced and diced his way to the victory.

He’s tough, he’s smart, he’s a floor general, he’s a leader, and he’s on the Clippers; Chris Paul is the greatest thing to happen to the Clippers since before everyone found out about Bill Walton’s ankles. 

[Orlando Sentinel; Los Angeles Times; OC Register; PHOTOS: Getty VIA]