In today’s image of the day, we have the 7-0 Pau Gasol being locked up by 5-11 Jameer Nelson as they fight for a rebound during the 2009 NBA Finals.  Even though the tall Spaniard has his right arm tangled by Nelson, it doesn’t stop Gasol from trying to pull down a rebound with his left hand.

The NBA draft will be held in a few days, and we’ll be hearing the phrase “wing span” a few times that night to describe the reach, literally and figuratively, of some future NBA players.   This image tody shows just how long some NBA players’ are, and the importance of their length.

Barely off the ground, off center balance, and being held by another player, Gasol still is able to extend up high with one hand, almost palming the ball.

Rant: And this has been the best defense Jameer Nelson had played in that game.  His leaving Derek Fisher open twice at the crunch times of the game gave up a CRUCIAL six points.

Nelson was only a quarter-step away from closing out on Fisher at the end of regularion, and Nelson committed too hard on Kobe Bryant on Fisher’s second three during overtime.  Van Gundy should have known that the smallest of details are what matters in these high level games, all the players need is that extra couple inches to get a shot off, and that Nelson wasn’t ready.  Jameer has been out for half the season, and he hasn’t regained his timing to full – Van Gundy should have known that.