"Champions, us?" Battier's response was exactly like Randolph's before.
No, he might even be more realistic.
After all, going from winning one playoff game to contending for a championship was quite a leap.
However, despite the similar reaction, what Hansen said next was completely different from what Randolph had said at the time.
"Do you think, who's the most likely to make it to the finals in The East this year?"
"Miami," Battier answered after only a brief consideration.
Among the likely teams in The East this year, the Bulls, the Heat, the Celtics, the Magic.
The Celtics are truly old, the Magic just aren't up to it, and the Bulls are too young.
By comparison, the Heat might have some issues gelling, but the playoffs are a stage for superstars, and in that regard, they've already won.
"Do you think if we face the Heat in the finals, we have a chance to win?"
"Yes," Battier said without hesitation this time.
