LeBron James-DeShawn Stevenson, Cleveland-Washington Series Must Go Seven Games

Cleveland and Washington’s smack exchange, ‘diss’ records, nightclub boycotts, and hard fouls could end Friday when the Cavaliers and Wizards play game six in their first round series.

Cleveland leads 3-2. If LeBron James’ crew win, this grudge match ends. I’ll miss it. And I’ll be disappointed this series didn’t go seven. Like a WWE cage match, this rivalry has brought out some silliness, but, on the whole, the Cavs and-Wizards have entertained.

The highlight has been the lack of new school friendliness. I get sick watching today’s stars show love for opponents during the playoffs; the pounds, the half-hugs, the laughter during a break in play, and the childish sportsmanship where arms are extended after a backbreaking foul.

It’s disgusting. The playoffs should be about old school hate. I want hard fouls. I want Gary Payton trash-talk. And I want John Starks craziness.

Thankfully, Cleveland-Washington is a mid-eighties battle, with a new school twist. The infractions are tough. Players are running their mouths like Don King prize-fighters. And DeShawn Stevenson is as certifiable as J-Starks.

Of course, there have been modern day Soulja Boy-Jay-Z references. And ‘Jigga Man’ dropped a verse in a DC club, prompting the hometown players to organize a boycott. And journeyman posts have also referred to a 6-8, 250 pound man as a crybaby.  

What a perfect mix of old and new. This ugliness is playoff basketball. This is exactly what the NBA has been missing. And this is why I’ll watch Friday and, hopefully, Sunday, too.

Do you want the Cavaliers-Wizards series to go seven? Get at me in the comment box with your thoughts. And return to HoopsVibe the Blog for more NBA thoughts. Image courtesy of Scott Ableman.