NBA Playoffs: Full Coverage Of Sunday's Action

Playoff Talking Points: Playing 'Buy Or Sell' With The First Round

Thanks to 40 points from Carmelo Anthony, the Knicks survived the Heat and won their first playoff game since 2001. And now the NBA has another excuse to wonder about Miami in crunch time.

It's time to play "buy or sell" with the 2012 playoffs.

Nuggets Vs. Lakers, NBA Playoffs 2012 Game 4: Final Score, LA's Hero Is ... Steve Blake!

The Los Angeles Lakers struggled in all facets of their game in Game 3 of their series against the Denver Nuggets, but were improved all around in Game 4. Denver's offense completely dried up in the second half as they managed just 37 points. That let the Lakers come back from a bad first half, and they're heading to LA with a 3-1 series lead after winning 92-88.

Steve Blake was the unlikely hero of the night, hitting a late three-pointer to seal the win. With the Lakers up three points following a slightly controversial offensive goaltending call on Denver's Andre Miller, Blake drained a three from the corner, assisted by Kobe Bryant, to give Los Angeles a six-point lead with 18 seconds remaining.

Bryant led all scorers with 22 points, but was just 10-25 from the floor and inexplicably failed to get to the free throw line during the game. Andrew Bynum was much improved from Game 3 with an 8-12 shooting performance, while Jordan Hill contributed another double-double off the bench.

The Nuggets got a great performance out of Danilo Gallinari, but the rest of their offensive weapons struggled. Ty Lawson scored 11 points, Al Harrington had nine and Arron Afflalo had just six points.

For more on the Lakers, head over to Silver Screen and Roll and SB Nation Los Angeles. For more on the Nuggets, check out Denver Stiffs and SB Nation Denver. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

GIF: Kobe Bryant Violently Hugs Steve Blake

Steve Blake just hit a huge three-pointer to seal the Los Angeles Lakers' Game 4 victory over the Denver Nuggets to take a 3-1 lead in their first-round NBA Playoffs series. It's the kind of shot former Lakers guard Derek Fisher used to hit all the time before the Lakers traded him earlier this year.

Only thing is, I'm not sure I can remember too many times where Kobe Bryant hugged Fisher like this.

I'm sure Bryant hugged Fisher violenty at some point in the many years that played together, but did he ever for a first-round playoff win? I'm not so sure.

Don't worry, Derek. Barring a surprising comeback by the Nuggets in this series, it looks like you'll have the chance to exact your revenge on Bryant in the next round.

For more on the Lakers, head over to Silver Screen and Roll and SB Nation Los Angeles. For more on the Nuggets, check out Denver Stiffs and SB Nation Denver. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Your Pam McGee GIF Of The Night

When we last left Pam McGee, mother of Denver Nuggets center JaVale McGee, she was glaring at the jumbotron as her son was being interviewed after the Nuggets' Game 3 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. She seems to be in a better mood during Sunday's Game 4.

For more on the Lakers, head over to Silver Screen and Roll and SB Nation Los Angeles. For more on the Nuggets, check out Denver Stiffs and SB Nation Denver. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

GIF: Andrew Bynum Ponders The Meaning Of Life

Either that, or he's plotting when he can next shoot a three-pointer.

For more on the Lakers, head over to Silver Screen and Roll and SB Nation Los Angeles. For more on the Nuggets, check out Denver Stiffs and SB Nation Denver. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Woman Who Came On Court During Nuggets Vs. Lakers Game Used To Stalk Kenyon Martin, According To Report

Update: The woman, Savannah McMillan-Christmas, is apparently not Martin's stalker. Her father, Chris Christmas, told Spears on Tuesday that Denver police misidentified his daughter. From Yahoo! Sports:

Christmas said he isn't sure why his daughter mentioned Martin's name, but said Denver police told him they mistakenly identified his daughter as Martin's former stalker. Det. John White, a Denver police spokesman, told The Denver Post that police are not aware of any previous incidents involving McMillan-Christmas.

Original post:

The story of the woman that ran onto the court during Game 4 of the first-round NBA Playoffs series between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers keeps getting weirder. Earlier, TNT's Craig Sager reported that the woman has a history of stalking Nuggets players. Now, according to Marc Spears of Yahoo! Sports, we find out that she was specifically stalking former Nuggets forward Kenyon Martin, now with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Sources tell @YahooSports say they believe the girl that ran on floor in Denver was the same one that stalked Kenyon Martin in his DEN days.

— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) May 7, 2012

Sources also tell also tell @YahooSports the woman was screaming: "Where is Kenyon?" to @denvernuggets bench before running on floor.

— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) May 7, 2012

The Nuggets are lucky that Martin departed the team following last season. If Martin still was with the squad, things could have turned ugly. As it turned out, she was removed without incident, and play continued mostly uninterrupted.

For more on the Lakers, head over to Silver Screen and Roll and SB Nation Los Angeles. For more on the Nuggets, check out Denver Stiffs and SB Nation Denver. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Kevin Garnett Doesn't Think Reporters Know Astrology

Therefore, he decided to put it in as simple terms as possible.

"I don’t know if you guys follow astrology and all the things with the moon and stuff," KG talking about Ray Allen missing a free throw.

— Paul Flannery (@Pflanns) May 7, 2012

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

Nuggets Vs. Lakers, 2012 NBA Playoffs: Denver Up 51-45

The Denver Nuggets have ridden a balanced effort from up and down their roster to get out to a 51-45 lead on the LA Lakers in Game 4 of their first-round series.

Nine different Nuggets have already scored, as Denver has repeatedly got out into the open court in what's been a well-played, up-and-down game between the two teams.

Denver has gotten big contributions from their bench, with Javale McGee bringing his trademark mixture of highlights and goofball plays and Andre Miller scoring 11 points on 5-6 shooting.

Los Angeles, meanwhile, has gotten almost nothing from their supporting cast, as four players have combined to score 37 of 44 points. Kobe Bryant has been relatively quiet, but that hasn't stopped him from hoisting up 13 shots in order to get 12 points in the first half.

For more coverage of this game, stay tuned to the SB Nation storystream as well as Denver Stiffs and Silver Screen And Roll.

Woman Wanders Onto Court During Nuggets-Lakers Game

GIF: Al Harrington Doesn't Believe In Timeouts

Most people would wait until a timeout to remove an uncomfortable facial accessory like protective headgear, but Al Harrington isn't afraid to improvise:

via assets.sbnation.com

I guess someone else will get that.

For more coverage of this game, stay tuned to the SB Nation storystream as well as Denver Stiffs and Silver Screen And Roll.

GIF: Sometimes Javale McGee Just Can't Help Himself

For the most part, Javale McGee has been on his best behavior in Denver.

However, when there's a shot near the rim, his instincts can take over, even when blocking it is an obvious goaltend:

The good news is he recognized it was a bad decision almost as soon as he jumped.

Small steps.

For more coverage of this game, stay tuned to the SB Nation storystream as well as Denver Stiffs and Silver Screen And Roll.

Celtics Vs. Hawks, 2012 NBA Playoffs: Boston Dominates 101-79

When one team gets out to a big lead in a playoff game, the announcers will invariably warn the viewers not to get too comfortable because "an NBA team is always going to make a run."

That didn't happen for the Atlanta Hawks in Game 4 of their first-round series with the Boston Celtics, as they were dominated 101-79 by Boston in a game that was rarely even competitive, especially in the second half.

The loss puts an injury-ravaged Atlanta team on the brink of elimination, as they've now dropped three straight games to the Celtics after winning Game 1.

Rajon Rondo was the story of the game, as he scored 20 points on 8-11 shooting while handing out 16 assists to only one turnover. He even went 2-3 from beyond the arc, which tells you all you need to know about how well Boston played.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

GIF: Rajon Rondo's Fake Behind-The-Back Pass Impresses Mitt Romney

Rajon Rondo just did that thing where he fakes a behind-the-back pass and instead shoots a layup. It doesn't always work anymore, but when it does, it's a thing of beauty. This time, it worked against an Atlanta Hawks team that hasn't really bothered to compete in Game 4 of this 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series.

Score be dammed, that's nifty. It was so nifty that even one very well-known spectator was impressed. Here's how former Massachusetts governor and current Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney reacted to the move.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

GIF: Keyon Dooling Provides An Amusing Celebration

One of my favorite things about watching a blowout is seeing how the bench guys are celebrating all the shots their teammates are making. As far as amusing celebrations go, this one by Celtics reserve guard Keyon Dooling vaults high up the list.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

VIDEO: Paul Pierce Is Trolling The Hawks Again

Paul Pierce is leading the Boston Celtics to a blowout win over the Atlanta Hawks in Game 4 of their 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series, and given what we know about Pierce, we know what that means. You may remember Pierce's Tebowing act after polishing off a superb game in a Game 2 victory on Tuesday. He tried to one-up that with this act following yet another made three-point shot on Sunday.

Pierce was fouled in transition, and instead of stopping, he let his momentum carry him ... all the way into the tunnel where the fans are sitting. It was a move reminiscent of Randal Hill's act in the 1990 Cotton Bowl. The only thing missing was Pierce's six-shooter celebration routine. He did this slightly nicer thing instead.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Celtics Vs. Hawks: Boston Up 64-41 At Halftime

It's been all Celtics all the time in Game 4 of their first-round series with the Hawks, as Boston has steamrolled out to a 64-41 halftime lead.

With Boston shooting a blistering 63.6 percent from the floor, there have been stretches of the game where it has barely been competitive.

Before he had to limp off to the locker room in the second quarter with a sore knee, Paul Pierce had 18 points on 8-11 shooting. Asides from Pierce, Boston has spread the ball around offensively, with nine players already in the scoring column after only 24 minutes.

Rajon Rondo has been at the center of everything, taking advantage of Atlanta playing off of him defensively to rack up 13 assists.

On the other end of the floor, nothing has gone right for the Hawks, as Joe Johnson has been the only player with any rhythm offensively, scoring seven points on 3-4 shooting.

For more coverage of the game, check out Peachtree Hoops and CelticsBlog.

The Real Reason Amar'e Stoudemire Missed A Late Free Throw

Paul Pierce Injury: Celtics' Star Heads Back To Locker Room With Leg Injury

UPDATE: Pierce is back in to start the second half.

The Boston Celtics are blowing out the Atlanta Hawks in Game 4 of their 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series on Sunday night, but they may have suffered a critical injury to one of their players. Star forward Paul Pierce injured his leg trying to guard Josh Smith and was taken back to the locker room to be examined. His status remains unclear.

Pierce did walk off on his own power, which is good news for Celtics fans, but the team doctor did go back to the locker room with him.

Prior to the injury, Pierce was on fire, scoring 18 first-half points to lead the Celtics to the blowout score. Pierce has hit eight of his 11 shot attempts and two of his four three-point shots.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

GIF: Rajon Rondo Takes Charge, Planks

One of my least favorite plays in basketball is when a player tries to take a charge in transition, when the other player is zipping at him at full speed. This is why.

Rondo ended up being just fine, by the way.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

This Is Not Dwyane Wade's Twitter Account

Heat Vs. Knicks, 2012 Eastern Conference Playoffs Game 4: New York Wins MSG Thriller, 89-87, To Stay Alive

The Miami Heat won the first three games of their first round series against the New York Knicks by double-digits, but, with their backs against the wall on Sunday afternoon in Madison Square Garden, the Knicks finally put up the fight everyone had hoped for in this much-hyped series and won their first post-season game since 2001. LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony traded huge three-pointers in the final two minutes, and, despite a few missed free throws, the Knicks were able to hold on and win, 89-87. The series returns to Miami for Game 5 Wednesday when the Heat try to close it out a second time.

The first half was an ugly one, neither team could get much going, and the Heat led by six. Carmelo Anthony had 18 points but the rest of his team had just 20, which was foreshadowing for how the game would end. Amar'e Stoudemire returned with a heavily wrapped left hand — courtesy of the world's most famous fire extinguisher — and played surprisingly well, scoring 20 points with 10 rebounds, and shooting 8-for-13 from the floor.

The Knicks clawed back in the game in the second half behind Stoudemire and Anthony and, really, not much else. That is, until the game was tied at 81 with 1:23 left, when the ball was swung around the key and found Mike Bibby — in because Baron Davis gruesomely dislocated his patella earlier — who buried a clutch three-pointer from the corner. That's when things got really good.

LeBron James came back down and was left wide open by a hapless J.R. Smith, and he nailed a three-pointer to tie the game back up. 'Melo then went all hero-ball himself and hit another three, putting the Knicks back up three. The Heat had a chance to tie again — the way the game was going, it looked as if that was certain to happen — before Chris Bosh let a pass get away from him in the biggest moment of the game.

Anthony then took the inbounds and dribbled for a few seconds in the ensuing play before rising up and drawing a questionable shooting foul from Shane Battier on a three-point attempt. He missed the first two freebies but nailed the third to make it a two possession game. Though LeBron tried his best at bringing the Heat back with an unbelievable play, Dwyane Wade got the ball with the team down two points and the game winding down, and failed where so many have chastised James for doing the same in big moments.

This win changes nothing for the Knicks. Without Baron Davis especially, they can't climb out of a 3-0 hole to beat the NBA title favorites, especially having to win two games on the road to do it. This moment, however, showed us what we had all been hoping to see: a high-intensity playoff game with a satisfying finish at Madison Square Garden. The only question now is will Jeremy Lin return for Game 5?

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

VIDEO: LeBron James' Absurd And-1 Against Tyson Chandler

The Miami Heat couldn't quite complete the comeback to beat the New York Knicks in Game 4 of their 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series, but the only reason they even had a chance was because of this absurd three-point play by LeBron James against Tyson Chandler. Here's video.

I'm not sure how James even got that ball to the rim, much less put it in. His body is leaning so far away from the hoop.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

GIF: J.R. Smith's Unique Way Of Celebrating Carmelo Anthony's Big Shot

JR Smith should be overjoyed that Carmelo Anthony hit a long three-pointer to give the New York Knicks a three-point lead over the Miami Heat with under a minute remaining in Sunday's Game 4. Instead, he appears to be ... upset?

Let me know when anyone figures J.R. Smith out.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

Spike Lee's Tie Is Bigger Than Spike Lee

Last thing on Spike Lee (we think). While skinny ties have been prevalent for quite some time, not sure I've seen anything like what Lee is rocking on Sunday. He went in the complete opposite direction

That thing is bigger than Spike and just about as wide as him, too. It's massive!

Al Horford Warming Up, 'Game-Time Decision' For Game 4

Though he had previously said he would miss all of the first round, Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford is warming up before Game 4 of the Eastern Conference first round against the Boston Celtics.

Horford has missed almost the entire 2011-2012 NBA season with a torn pectoral muscle, but the Hawks could use anyone with size at this point. Josh Smith missed the end of Game 2 and all of Game 3 — both Hawks losses — with a knee injury, and Horford's backup, Zaza Pachulia, is out for the series, meaning Jason Collins and Ivan Johnson are the only players on the active roster with any size and game experience.

There's no word yet on whether Horford will play, but he's on the active roster, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, meaning, even if he's not originally intended to get any minutes, he can go in case of emergency. How many minutes he'll get if he goes is up in the air, but it's hard to imagine him playing even close to 30.

The Hawks are down 2-1 to the Celtics, and they tip off in Atlanta at 7 p.m. ET.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta.

GIF: Mike Miller's Facial Expressions Are Scary

Mike Miller may be nervous, or he may just be really hyper-active. Whatever he is, I don't really want to see this again.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

Spike Lee: Well-Dressed Referee

I'm not saying Spike Lee is better at making calls than the refs on the floor, but at least he makes a charge call look fly.

Good form, good hat, nice and clear signal ... wait a minute, Spike. That's not quite a charge sign. You're supposed to point, not raise your arm with your palm facing down.

Baron Davis Injury Is A Dislocated Right Patella, Knicks Announce

New York Knicks guard Baron Davis has suffered what the team is calling a "dislocated right patella" in his right knee, according to ABC sideline reporter Lisa Salters on the broadcast. As most expected, Davis will not be returning to Game 4 of the Knicks' 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series against the Miami Heat.

Related: Video of Baron Davis' knee injury | Miami Heat players recoil in horror after Davis goes down.

Davis suffered the injury trying to go on a fast break midway through the third quarter on Sunday. He tried to step through to go for a layup, and his right knee buckled. He had to be taken off the court on a stretcher, which should give you some indication about how serious this knee injury is.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

Avery Bradley Injury Update: Celtics' Guard Will Play In Game 4 Vs. Hawks

The Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks will both be at full strength, relatively speaking, for the first time in Game 4 of their 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series. Celtics guard Avery Bradley was the only question mark after suffering a shoulder injury in Game 3 on Friday, but he will give it a go, according to Sherrod Blakely of CSN New England.

Bradley suffered the injury in Friday's Game 3 and did not play during key stretches in the fourth quarter and overtime. Without him, the Celtics were forced to play Mickael Pietrus more.

Bradley is one of several injured players that will be playing in Game 4. Teammate Ray Allen will play in his second straight game after missing the first two games of the series, while Hawks forward Josh Smith will return to the lineup after missing Game 3 with a strained patella ligament.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Baron Davis' Knee Injury Makes Miami Heat Recoil In Horror

VIDEO: Baron Davis' Gruesome Knee Injury

Warning: this video of Baron Davis' knee injury is not for the faint of heart. The New York Knicks' point guard is most definitely out for the rest of Game 4 of the team's 2012 NBA Playoffs series against the Miami Heat, and there are a lot of people wondering if his career could be over after this play.

Davis was running down on a fast break and tried to step past the Heat defender when his right knee gave way. Not only did the knee get twisted, but contact from the defender also added to the pain. Ultimately, if you watch the video closely, you can see an indentation from where Davis' knee ligaments are supposed to be located.

It's arguably the most gruesome knee injury to watch since former Los Angeles Clippers guard Shaun Livingston blew out his knee in a game in 2007.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

Baron Davis Injury: Knicks' Guard Suffers Serious Knee Injury Vs. Miami Heat

The 2012 NBA Playoffs have seen lots of serious injuries so far, but the one Baron Davis suffered in the third quarter of Game 4 of the New York Knicks' first-round series against the Miami Heat may be the worst of all. The Knicks' point guard went down in a heap clutching his right knee after tripping on a fast break, and he was carried out on a stretcher.

Here's a replay of the injury, if you feel the need to watch.

Davis had become the team's starting point guard after Jeremy Lin suffered a season-ending injury in April. The veteran was acquired by the Knicks after being waived by the Cleveland Cavaliers through the Amnesty Clause.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

GIF: LeBron James, Knicks Fans Share A Moment

That awkward moment where a celebrity catches you staring at them and looks back, forcing you to come up with some sort of response? That's pretty much what happened here with LeBron James and two random New York Knicks fans. Each fan reacted differently.

To the guy who nodded in James' direction: I salute your boldness. To the guy who looked away: weak.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

Dwyane Wade Stumbles Upon Metaphor

The Miami Heat lead the New York Knicks in the first round of the NBA playoffs 3-0 and by six points at halftime of Game 4. The Heat have thoroughly outclassed the Knicks, leading many to speculate this will be the last game of the series. The basketball gods apparently agree, and sent Dwyane Wade a not-so-subtle message.

"Hey, sorry for bumping into you. Here's your metaphor back." -Dwyane Wade, probably.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

VIDEO: Tyson Chandler's Frustration Boils Over With Technical Foul

It's been a rough 2012 NBA Playoffs for New York Knicks center Tyson Chandler. The 2012 NBA Defensive Player of the Year played through a really bad flu for the first two games against the Miami Heat, then was rendered ineffective in Game 3. Things haven't been much better for him in Game 4, as he just picked up his third personal foul and a technical foul on this play late in the second quarter.

Chandler thought he got fouled by Chris Bosh, then committed a silly foul reaching for the ball after Bosh got the rebound in the backcourt. After that, he compounded the problem by swiping for the ball even though it was Miami's possession. It almost looked like he picked up two technical fouls for the play, but the referees came together and only issued him one. That's despite Chandler saying something that rhymes with "ducking goal split" to them.

It's been that kind of series for Chandler and the Knicks.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding theMiami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

GIF: Chris Bosh Submits Early Entry For Flop Of The Night

Chris Bosh probably got fouled on this moving screen by Carmelo Anthony, but the head jerk probably sealed it. Nice flop.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding theMiami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

PHOTO: Pat Riley, Michael Douglas Both Look Bored

It's Game 4 of an NBA Playoff series, and Miami Heat president Pat Riley and good friend and actor Michael Douglas both look like they just woke up from a nap.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding theMiami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

ANIMATED: Amar'e Stoudemire Flexes After Putback And-1

By now, we all know about Amar'e Stoudemire's troubles with fire extinguishers. After sitting out Game 3, he's playing for the New York Knicks against the Miami Heat in Game 4 with a bulky wrap around his left hand, and playing well. Here he gets a putback and gets fouled, and he showed his hand wraps haven't stopped him from preening for the crowd.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding theMiami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

PHOTO: Amar'e Stoudemire's Hand Wrap

Amar'e Stoudemire is starting for the New York Knicks just five days after nearly sawing part of his own hand off punching a fire extinguisher. It's pretty stunning that he's playing, considering he basically can't use his left hand. Nevertheless, he's in the lineup wearing this hand wrap.

The wrap is basically eight layers deep, and it includes a stitch gauze, gel pack, wrist wrap and elbow brace. Basically, there's plenty of protection. Still, it's nearly impossible for Stoudemire to get a good grip on the ball with his left hand. He's managed to be successful with smart cutting, good rebounding and one-handed dunks using his right hand, at least until picking up his second foul.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

GIF: Omer Asik's Facial Expression Speaks For All Bulls Fans

Chicago Bulls fans are not too pleased with the officiating following their team's Game 4 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers to fall behind 3-1 in their 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series. Most of the anger comes from this no-call on Carlos Boozer with a minute and a half left in the game, but some of the anger comes from a late foul on Omer Asik down four with under 30 seconds left.

I'm guessing that facial expression is one that many Bulls fans have themselves right now.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

GIF: Did Carlos Boozer Get Fouled Here?

This play late in Game 4 between the Philadelphia 76ers and Chicago Bulls on Sunday will probably be dissected for quite a while. Down two points with under two minutes left, Bulls forward Carlos Boozer dove into the lane for a layup. 76ers big men Elton Brand and Spencer Hawes converged on him and blocked the shot. No foul was called, which bothered Boozer to no end.

So, you be the judge. Was Boozer fouled on this play?

Man, that's a close call.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

GIF: Philadelphia 76ers Fan Mad At Referees

After seeing a call he didn't like, this Philadelphia 76ers fan sprung to action and walked all the way out onto the court. Needless to say, he was ejected.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Josh Smith Injury: Hawks' Forward Plans To Return For Game 4 Against Celtics

As expected, Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith still plans to play in Game 4 at TD Garden Sunday night after testing his injured knee during shootaround. Smith sat out the Hawks' Game 3 overtime loss with strained patella ligament, an injury he suffered battling Kevin Garnett in the post during the fourth quarter of their Game 2 loss. But Smith was adamant he would return for Game 4, regardless of how the knee felt. Michael Cunningham of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution tweeted Sunday afternoon that there's no change to the plans of his return, via @AJCHawks:

No change on #Hawks Josh Smith (knee) after shootaround. He still plans to play GM 4 vs. #Celtics

— Michael Cunningham (@ajchawks) May 6, 2012

Smith's return could be a huge boost for the Hawks, who are trying to even their series with the Celtics and reclaim home court advantage. Tip is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET in Boston.

For more on the Celtics, head over to CelticsBlog and SB Nation Boston. For more on the Hawks, check out Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

GIF: C.J. Watson Loses His Shoe

Here's Chicago Bulls guard C.J. Watson learning it's hard to play defense when you can't get any traction on the court.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Amar'e Stoudemire Injury: Knicks Power Forward Will Start Game 4 Against Heat

Amar'e Stoudemire will start Game 4 against the Miami Heat, according to New York Knicks head coach Mike Woodson, who spoke with the media at Madison Square Garden shortly before the game. After going through a full practice on Saturday afternoon, the Knicks announced Stoudemire would likely be a game-time decision. That decision is in, and he will apparently be on the floor for tip as New York tries to stave off elimination against the Heat. Via Frank Isola:

Mike Woodson says Amar'e Stoudemire will start

— Frank Isola (@FisolaNYDN) May 6, 2012

Stoudemire is recovering from a nasty, self-inflicted gash across his left hand after punching through the glass of a fire extinguisher at AmericanAirlines Arena after Game 2. It was initially believed he was done for the series but, after sitting out just one game, he's back and will try to stop a 13-game postseason losing streak for New York.

For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York. For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier.

PHOTO: LeBron James' 'Closeout Game' Ensemble

76ers Vs. Bulls Halftime Score: Philly Leads 44-42 At The Break

The Philadelphia 76ers took 44-42 lead into halftime of Game 4 of their series with the Chicago Bulls.

Spencer Hawes carried the 76ers in the first half, scoring 17 points while making seven of his eight shots. It's a good thing for Philadelphia that Hawes has played well because the 76er guards really struggled in the first half. Jrue Holiday scored four first-half points but made just one of his 13 shots.

The Bulls, playing without Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah, were led by Taj Gibson in the first half. Gibson came off the bench and scored 12 points to go along with eight rebounds. Carlos Boozer is the only other Bull in double figures, with 10 points.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Bulls Vs. 76ers: Spencer Hawes On Fire

Just as everyone predicted, Spencer Hawes has 17 points to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a two-point halftime lead on the Chicago Bulls in Game 4 of their 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series. When the Mayans plotted out the world ending in 2012, they probably made sure to account for Hawes being the star player in an NBA playoff game. Well played, Mayans.

Hawes has hit seven of his eight shots to get to 17 points, including a corner three-pointer in the closing seconds. He even threw in the world's most pointless behind-the-back pass for good measure.

On the year, Hawes averaged 9.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, and he hit only three three-pointers. So, yeah, this is surprising. It's a good thing Hawes is starring too, because the 76ers' three key guards (Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner and Lou Williams) are shooting a combined 4-28 from the field.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

VIDEO: Carlos Boozer Throws Pass Into 7th Row, Sixers Fan Enjoys Being On TV

Game 4 of this first-round NBA Playoffs series between the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers has looked a lot like Game 3. The game has been competitive, but nothing has looked pretty. Case in point: this horrible pass by Bulls forward Carlos Boozer midway through the second quarter.

Boozer was on the far side of the court and zipped the pass way into the stands on the near side. ESPN play-by-play man Mike Tirico accurately described the play by saying it was "as bad a pass as you will see as a pro." Yup.

On the bright side, the horrible pass provided us the chance to watch this 76ers fan enjoy his three seconds of fame.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

PHOTO: Sixers Superfan James 'Big Daddy' Brister Stepped His Game Up

With his Philadelphia 76ers on the verge of a potential 3-1 series lead against the top-seeded Chicago Bulls in this 2012 NBA Playoffs first-round series, superfan James "Big Daddy" Brister (follow him on Twitter) has taken his costume game up a notch.

Question to readers: how would you describe what he's actually wearing?

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

PHOTO: Explaining The 76ers' Late-Arriving Crowd Vs. Bulls

If you're watching Game 4 of the first-round NBA Playoffs series between the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, you're probably wondering why the crowd looks and sounds like it's at a random game in mid-February. Part of it is because Philadelphia, even in ideal times, isn't known for having a boisterous home-court crowd. However, there are also unique extenuating circumstances on this specific Sunday.

Sunday, May 6, is the day of the Broad Street Run, a 10-mile race on the first Sunday in May and one of the largest 10-mile runs in the country. Around 40,000 people participate in the race, which causes all of Broad Street to be closed down. The race winds down around the 76ers home court Wells Fargo Center so, even at this hour, there's still a ton of traffic. That means many fans trying to attend the game are running late.

Maybe this doesn't stop you from suggesting that the 76ers fans suck, but you probably should keep these circumstances in mind.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

GIF: Andre Iguodala Dunks Through The Pain

Must be nice to be athletic enough to do this even though you're playing on a sore Achilles.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Amar'e Stoudemire Injury: Knicks Star Will Be Game-Time Decision In Game 4 Vs. Heat

The New York Knicks must win on Sunday to stave off elimination in their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series with the Miami Heat. It's not clear yet whether the Knicks will have Amar'e Stoudemire on the floor for Game 4: Stoudemire is listed as doubtful, but his status will be a game-time decision, and he is still recovering from a hand injury sustained when he punched the glass casing of a fire extinguisher after a Game 2 loss.

Stoudemire did not play in Game 3, a Knicks loss in Madison Square Garden that gave New York the NBA record for most consecutive postseason losses with 13, but did participate in practice with the team on Saturday. Coach Mike Woodson said he was able to rebound and catch with a left hand covered by padding.

Stoudemire averaged 13.5 points and six rebounds per game in the first two games of the series.

For all news and information regarding the Miami Heat, please visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For updates and perspective on the New York Knicks, head on over to Posting and Toasting or check out SB Nation New York.

Joakim Noah Injury: Bulls Center Out For Game 4 Vs. Sixers

The Chicago Bulls will be down a second star for Game 4 against the Philadelphia 76ers, and it's no surprise who's joining Derrick Rose on the bench: Joakim Noah's ankle injury will keep him out of the Bulls' Sunday game in Philadelphia, and likely out of the rest of the postseason.

Noah injured the ankle in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, and returned to the game only to re-aggravate it. Without Noah, Chicago will start Omer Asik at center alongside Carlos Boozer in the frontcourt, and the usually imposing Bulls front line will be down to one athletic, lanky defender with a limited offensive game.

The Bulls are down 2-1 in their series, and earned their only win Game 1, the only game in the series Rose played in before tearing his ACL.

For all news and information regarding the Chicago Bulls, please visit Blog a Bull or head on over to SB Nation Chicago. For updates and perspective on the Philadelphia 76ers, check out Liberty Ballers or stop by SB Nation Philadelphia. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

NBA Playoff Schedule 2012: Heat Can Sweep; Sixers, Celtics, Lakers Look For Commanding 3-1 Leads

The second weekend of the NBA Playoffs wraps up with a full Sunday of basketball, with one team looking to advance and three others trying to avoid a 3-1 hole.

NBA Playoffs 2012, 76ers Vs. Bulls Game 4: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Philadelphia 76ers will host a depleted Chicago Bulls team on Sunday. The Sixers hold a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven opening round series in the 2012 NBA Playoffs.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Hawks Vs. Celtics Game 4: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Boston Celtics will host the Atlanta Hawks in on Sunday. The Celtics are ahead 2-1 in the best-of-seven playoff series.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Nuggets Vs. Lakers Game 4: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Denver Nuggets picked up a win in Game 3 against the Los Angeles Lakers and look for momentum to bring them another home victory to even up the series at 2-2 on Sunday evening.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Knicks Vs. Heat Game 4: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Miami Heat are on the verge of completing a sweep of the New York Knicks. On Sunday, the Knicks will host the Heat at Madison Square Garden and attempt to stay alive for at least one more game.