Reputations are hinted at during the regular season — and solidified in the playoffs. Here’s proof:
George Hill, San Antonio » Who needs Tony Parker? Hill slid into the starting lineup in January, and he’s been solid ever since. His career playoff-high 29 points in Game 4 against Dallas was icing on the cake. With his confidence sky-high, Hill was 5-for-6 from beyond the arc.
Caron Butler, Dallas » He hasn’t exactly been secret elixir to give the Mavericks first-round immunity. Instead, his shooting percentage (.386) has dropped while his turnovers (3.5 per game) have gone up from his regular season averages. He was a team-best +10 in Dallas’ Game 1 victory over the Spurs, but he was a team-worst -21 in Game 2 and -15 in Game 4.
Joakim Noah, Chicago » He’s the first player in Bulls history with a 20-20 playoff double-double (21 points, 20 rebounds). Even if you can’t stand to watch him shoot free throws, he’s a long, versatile and determined guy around the basket — and a solid piece to build upon in the offseason.
