Eddie Jordan gave the Wizards the day off from practice today, and the rest day is much needed for DeShawn Stevenson, who started Monday despite still dealing with soreness from that bruised tail bone and then left the game at the start of the third quarter with lower back pain. X-rays were done and results came back negative. The Invincible D-Steve will probably be right back out there tomorrow for his 250th consecutive start.
It was a bit disappointing to head back to the locker room after the game and find that Stevenson was gone already. Before the game he was asked about his thoughts on his wish of facing LeBron and the Cavs in the first round of the playoffs. Wearing a smile and a fluffy black bathrobe with THE LOCKSMITH embroidered on the back (one of his nicknames because he prides himself on being a lockdown defender), Stevenson said "After the game. Wait til after this game. I'll have some material for you guys then." But he had headed out after leaving the game with stiffness and soreness in that back, which is understandable. He'll surely unload on us tomorrow night after the Orlando game, which was where he announced on March 19 that Soulja Boy would be sitting courtside wearing a Stevenson jersey when LeBron and the Cavs come to the Verizon Center in the playoffs.
Caron Butler and Gilbert Arenas also benefited from the day off. Butler missed last night's game with continued soreness in that bruised right knee and Agent Zero sat out as a precautionary move, no setback or anything. It wasn't like it was worth risking both of those guys on the Pacers.
We'll find out Thursday what day the Wizards will open the playoffs in Cleveland. I'm thinking Lebron vs. Gilbert has a great deal of appeal and that ABC will show it as the early game on Sunday. But, it could kick off the whole thing on Saturday. There are quite a few of compelling story lines this year in the playoffs: Boston, Kobe, defending champ Spurs ...
But C'mon, what's better than a King, an Agent and a Locksmith? This series is going to be great entertainment. You have LeBron and his new-look cast trying to get back to the finals (not happening). There's the whole third straight year thing going -- can the Wiz get over the hump this year? (Think they have a good shot). There's Gilbert reloaded, and of course Jay-Z (LeBron) vs. Soulja Boy (Stevenson). I can't wait to see Stevenson bust a 3-pointer and break out into the Soulja Boy dance!
-- Mike Jones
