The Mavericks were there own worst enemy, too, missing 17 consecutive shots in the fourth quarter during the Rockets' 19-0 run. Nowitzki missed 17 of 22 shots.
McGrady steered away from making the prediction that his teammate, Dikembe Mutombo made before Game 6, saying he would do his finger-wag in Phoenix, for the second round. McGrady no longer makes predictions after he last did -- in 2003, when his Magic had a 3-1 lead and ultimately lost to Detroit in seven games.
This time, McGrady is prepared for Game 7. "This is THE game," he said.
But it was not the only game in town. Van Gundy still had plenty to say.
"I never meant to impugn the integrity of the NBA," he said, repeating the words used by his owner, Les Alexander. "No one has benefited more in life from the NBA. I was coaching at McQuaid Jesuit High School and Rutgers as a part-time assistant. I've tried to be a positive reflection. I think I have and at times, I've made mistakes."
Van Gundy alluded to his running onto the court in 1998 and grabbing onto Alonzo Mourning's leg during a melee between the Knicks and the Heat. For Van Gundy, his actions look worse upon reflection. "Sometimes when you see what you said or see what you do, running on the court tackling people," Van Gundy said.
"You hope the totality of your career is viewed in totality, not in sound bites or 4 or 5 seconds of temporary insanity loss."
Commissioner David Stern seemed to threaten Van Gundy's job when Van Gundy said he would not reveal the name of the referee. Was he worried?
"I don't think right now is the time to think about anything like that," Van Gundy said.
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