Considering my experience with Pistons fans thus far has resulted in my wanting to mow them down with my Yaris, I’m disinclined to believe that Jameer intentionally meant to harm Billups.

Do I think Jameer wanted to trip Billups after falling to the ground? I really hope not. I despise fouls that occur solely for the purpose of hurting the player (I was not happy when Hedo pushed Bosh, disgusted with Jason Kidd, and rolled by eyes repeatedly at Songaila). I don’t think Jameer meant for Billups to attempt a split in the middle of the game and hurt himself. Don’t most men try to avoid straining their happy fun area? Anyway, I doubt that Jameer had the thought in the split second it took for them to fall to the ground that if he should twist his foot just so he could trip Billups, and in doing so predict that Billups would then lose his balance in a way resulting in an injury.

I don’t think Jameer’s that kind of player (coughBruce Bowencough). I hope he’s not. Did he mean to try to trip Billups up? Maybe. I would be disappointed if that were true but I would accept it, however grudgingly, if it were true. But I honestly don’t think any Magic player would wish true harm in their opponents. We’re not the Spurs, for God’s sakes.

If Billups hadn’t been injured, this would be a non-issue, but he was, and it’s very unfortunate. I’d rather have a series where we can prove ourselves against a good, healthy team, than have one riddled with controversies—shot clocks, free throws, fouls, injuries. and so on.

For now, though, I’ll give Jameer the benefit of a doubt.

He looks kinda thuggish with all those tats… Yeah, I don’t think so either. If they purposefully try and give him another concussion Gortat should show off his boxing skills! With Billups out I really think that the advantage switches to the Magic. Go Magic!