Forcing Game 7s in the NBA Semis

Written By: Matt "Night" Rider

Game 6: Orlando Magic: 83, Boston Celtics 75
Game 6: Los Angeles Lakers: 80, Houston Rockets 95

Well it wasn't the fairy tale ending for two of the NBA's most historic franchises (Lakers and Celtics). Nope this time, the Houston Rockets and the Orlando Magic put away their distractions and came to play. The result was four teams staring down vital Game 7s, to see who will go on to the NBA Conference Finals.

Coming off an embarrasing 30 points beating, the Rockets held the Lakers to only 80 points in a 95-80 victory in front of the Houston faithful on Thursday night. Houston's stengy defense stepped up and held the Lakers to only 36% shooting for the game. In the loss, the Lakers were led by Kobe Bryant, who had 32 points. Lamar Odom contributed 14 rebounds for the Lakers in the loss.

Everyone wondered how the Magic would respond, after all the rumors surrounding center Dwight Howard's press conference after the disappointing loss in Game 5. Orlando responded with a 83-75 victory, pushing the series to its final chapter, Game 7 on Sunday. Turnovers played a major part in the Game 6 outcome. Boston turned the ball over 22 times versus Orlando's 10 turnovers. Dwight Howard led the way for the Magic, scoring 23 points in the victory. Rashard Lewis chipped in 20 points of his own in the win. Despite the loss, the Celtics were paced by Rajon Rondo who put up 19 points.

After sweeping the Atlanta Hawks 4-0 in the best of 7, the Cleveland Cavaliers wait to see who they will play. The winner of the Celtics-Magic Game 7 on Sunday will answer their question. Coming off their 124-110 win on Wednesday night, the Denver Nuggets also play the waiting game, but not for long. The last battle of Artest vs. Kobe will determine...oh did I say Artest vs. Kobe, no I mean the Rockets-Lakers game on Sunday will reveal the next worthy opponent for the Denver Nuggets.

Hold on to your hats, and get ready to go for a ride. These two Game 7s are going to be slugfests and you my friends, have a front row seat for all the action. Right next to your television remote and favorite game time snack. Check your local listings for game times on Sunday.