206. We are already considering our opponents for the next round_2

The Pistons were forced to disband their formidable lineup purely because of Detroit's economic woes, with the owner nearing bankruptcy and running out of money.

On the Lakers and Suns side, Kobe was taken down 1-4 by Nash.

This result didn't surprise many, and although people had hopes for Kobe, there were few who believed the Lakers could prevail. Stoudemire's performance this season was of All-Star caliber. His face-up single play techniques and mid-range jump shots had improved dramatically, placing him among the elite in breaking through defenses. With Nash securing the base, Kobe alone couldn't compete.

In the only game the Lakers won, Kobe made 15 out of 25 shots, including 2 of 3 three-pointers, and scored 45 points with a 13 out of 13 from the free-throw line, leading the Lakers to a mere 6-point victory.

When Kobe scored over 30 points, the Lakers had no hope; when he scored in the 20s, the Lakers were beaten by more than 20 points...