No Denying Dirk Now

Everything was there for Miami to win the series. 

They had a smothering defense that had only allowed an opponent to score over 95 points two times out of a total of 15 games.  Each of their three stars were averaging double figures and had finally seemed to solve the "problem" of who would be the leader on the floor.  They were dominating their opponents on the glass and seemed like they were going to roll to the title.  But then they got tested by an opponent who wasn't going to back down.  They had more talent than the Mavericks and had the look of Champions.  They got pushed, and their resolve weakened.  Talent is one thing, but as it turns out team is that much stronger. 

While everyone in the media, in the stands, and on Miami's bench was caught looking to Lebron, or D-Wade to step up and make plays, Dallas just looked at their entire team.  And in those rare moments that members of the Mavericks did call each other out, they responded like champions.  Jason Terry became a force in games 5 & 6 that couldn't be stopped.  JJ Barea was seemingly unguardable in the paint.  Shawn Marion started contributing on both ends of the floor.  It was just a complete annihilation of a team that was in so many ways, better than them.


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Now, it's not like Miami didn't help them along the way.  In game 6, the Heat barely shot 60% from the free throw line, missing 13 out of a possible 33.  When you lose by 10 points, that's gotta sting.  But I have to admit, as much as I don't like Dallas, I am glad to see Shawn Marion and Jason Kidd get their rings.  Being a life long Phoenix Suns fan, it is great to see their careers rewarded.  Same goes for Dirk.  Look, Miami will get back to finals, and I'm betting they'll do it a couple of times in the future.  So many players have come through the league and put up some fantastic numbers.  They've gathered MVP trophies, scoring titles and set some records along the way (Steve Nash, Stockton & Malone, Charles Barkely, etc.).  The problem being is that as good as tose players are or have been, they will always have the "But" attached to the end of their legacies.  The ring is what separates good players from great ones, and to see these great careers rewarded is something that everyone can get behind. 

Ever since 2006, Dirk Nowitzki and Mavericks have had the "But" added on to their history.  Great regular season, but.....can't get it done in the playoffs. 

Now, there's no denying Dirk.