A Swirsk's Eye View

By Chuck Swirsky

I promised you theB Raptors-Sixers series would be a long one, and sure enough, that's going to be the case after the Sixers beat the Raptors in Toronto Sunday afternoon.

Swirsky

Some thoughts ...

1. Jerome Williams gave the Raptors great rebounding and energy off the bench in the first half,B and I expect him to see more time Wednesday.

2. Oak knows better than to dribble drive the length of the floor. He made a terrific defensive move intercepting the pass, but once he crossed the midcourt line, he should have handed the ball to a guard.

3. The Raptors rushed a few shots down the stretch, and had they exceuted their offense better, they could have won the game.

4. Vince will play better Wednesday -- book it.

5. Mutombo finally stepped up in Game 4 after a very quiet series.

6. Antonio Davis is playing his tail off, and his price tag as an upcoming free agent is headed to the sky.

7. I still think this series is head for a Game 7.

8. The crowds at the ACC have been tremendous. Fans, YOU deserve a standing ovation ... they are great!

The Bucks-Hornets series is what I expected. Give Paul Silas a lot of credit for making keeping his team focused after being down 0-2. Mash has really stepped up the last two games.

The Lakers looked awesome in their series against the Kings. Talk out of N.Y. B is that the Knicks are attempting to pry loose Chris Webber (free agent) in a sign and trade. But the only way the Kings swing a trade is if a third team gets involved.

The Spurs should wrap it up Monday against the Mavs. It's been a great year in Dallas, and I'm delighted fans have returned to Reunion.

Any comments/questions, e-mail me at cswirsky@torontoraptors.com.

Always a pleasure!

Chuck Swirsky