Charles Barkley is perhaps my favorite television personality, let alone commentator. I actually tune in the TNT pregame, halftime and post game shows just to listen to him. I suspect I'm not alone. His mixture of insight and humor is refreshing.
At the start of the season Barkley suggested that the lack of a point guard would keep Cleveland out of the playoffs. When the Cavs made their big multi-player trade, he praised it, including the acquisition of Delonte West. But he has continued to point out that the team still needs more production and leadership from the point.
Shift gears to the Hornets-Spurs series for an example of what Barkley is talking about. As of this writing the Hornets are up 2-0. Why? Chris Paul. The Hornets eliminated the Mavericks in Round One. Why? Chris Paul. The kid is simply amazing.
The point guard doesn't have to be as dominant as Paul has been in order for a team to succeed (see MJ, Scottie and the Bulls), but there's no question that he has shifted the focus back to the position. "Bigs," as post players are now euphemistically called, are vital. But seeing Paul dominate the floor recalls the days when Magic led the Lakers, and Isiah the Pistons. It's refreshing.
The Cavs have lacked that kind of leadership since Mark Price and Terrell Brandon patrolled the position a decade or two ago. West has teased Cavs fans with flashes of strong play since his arrival. He -- or someone -- will need to make it a regular thing for the team to "rise up" to true champion status.
Barkley's assessment of the Cavs has been right on target. He remains the most compelling sports commentator on TV.
