Drive to the Finals Picks - April 26, 2011

The Intuition Statistician
Must - Dwight Howard

• If you haven't picked Howard yet, this is a no brainer. He is averaging one of the highest RPA stat lines in the playoffs so far. If Orlando looses tonight then you may have lost your chance on some big numbers. Not picking Dwight would be a huge gamble, taken probably only by loyal Magic fans.

Bust - Joe Johnson

• For some reason Johnson is a hot pick tonight. This is one of the worst picks you could make unless you are convinced the Magic is going to rally for a comeback. With two teams facing potential elimination tonight, pick the best player from one of the losing teams.

Stat Guru:

Must - Dwight Howard

I didn't get to change this myself but Dwight Howard is the most obvious pick of the night. I know much of you probably waited for this moment to lock him up and with the Magic in huge trouble it is absolutely essential you pick him. Simple as that.

Bust - Kobe Bryant

I never thought I'd say this, but the Lakers actually look like they are in some trouble. Kobe will obviously be a trooper through his injury but his effectiveness will remain in question. I don't doubt they will win tonight but I have a hunch Kobe will look to divert to his team in this one. The Lakers have been very hush about the severe sprain Bryant received at the end of Game 4 which has to leave doubts in the minds of fans. Just in case, save this one until Game 6 if the Lakers do lose this game.

Fantasy Fresh Wes:
Must - Dwight Howard

• How can you not take Dwight at this point, if you haven't already? Nobody expected theMagic to be in this position against the Hawks, and the way they have played, this looks like it could be their last game of the season. Playing for their playoff lives, this is the perfect game to pick the league's most talented center, who is playing in front of his home crowd. A 30-20 game actually seems probable for tonight.

Bust - Chris Paul

• With the huge win at home in Game 4, Chris Paul and the Hornets are safe for another night. Once again, this pick isn't about CP3 having poor numbers - its about saving your best players until you need them. If you haven't used CP3 at this point, save him until the Lakers win their third game (if they even do?!).