2007 NBA Finals Breakdown

I am very excited about the upcoming 2007 NBA Finals between San Antonio and Cleveland. LeBron James has clearly played himself into the upper echelon of NBA players. Here is a position - by - position breakdown of the Finals.

Center: Fabrcio Oberto vs. Zydrunas Ilgauskas
The difference between these two center's impacts is that the Cavs will look for Ilgauskas early and throughout the game to establish the inside game where the Spurs rarely run plays for Oberto. Oberto is a high energy player and will always log quality minutes. Ilgauskas is an All-Star and Oberto fills space.
Advantage: Cavaliers

Power Forward: Tim Duncan vs. Drew Gooden
Is there really a need to break down these two? A three-time NBA Finals MVP, Duncan has been nothing short of extraordinary in the postseason. Drew Gooden has really not made a name for himself in the NBA, but fits in nicely with the Cavaliers offense. "Fitting in" will not cut it against the Spurs.
Advantage: Spurs

Small Forward: Bruce Bowen vs. LeBron James
Bowen is one of the NBA's top perimeter defenders and has agitated stars this postseason and will be sure to pester James. James is one of the best at attacking the hoop and when he is on his game no one can stop him. James has worked well by incorporating every teammate on the floor and will be sure to do so in the Finals.
Advantage: Cavaliers

Shooting Guard: Michael Finley vs. Sasha Pavlovic
The veteran Finley is starting to find his shot and is a threat from the perimeter. Pavlovic has had a couple double digit scoring games in the East semifinals.
Advantage: Spurs

Point Guard: Tony Parker vs. Larry Hughes
Tony Parker has developed into one of the games best point guards and his ability to attack the basket and dish out will give the Cavs problems. Larry Hughes is still battling an injury and is a very inconsistent player.
Advantage: Spurs

Coaches: Gregg Popovich vs. Mike Brown
Three victorious trips for Pop will be the difference maker in this series. Bluntly put, the Spurs roster is filled with veteran players and the Cavs are making their first trip to the Finals.
Advantage: Spurs