Tracking The Sportswriter Hacks

Tonight is Game 7 of the NBA Finals, which always inspires Cheetos-stained hacks to break out all their superlatives and bold proclamations. Like all sportswriters, they presume that no one will remember today's birdcage liner when tomorrow's hotsheets come out. But they are wrong. We are watching.

Check out these Big Statements from various "pundits," and see how long it takes them to back off them tomorrow if, you know, the actual game turns out a little different.

· Mitch Lawrence, New York Daily News: "Tim, Spurs are done." "San Antonio will not be hoisting the trophy." "The Pistons have the better coach." · Jay Mariotti, ESPN and Chicago Sun-Times: "If he reaches down with a 32-point, 19-rebound performance and makes enough free throws to inspire a victory, his elite standing will be secure as a two-time league MVP and two-time Finals MVP. If he misses big shots, clanks the freebies and fades, we'll start asking deeper questions." · Buck Harvey, San Antonio Express-News: ""Ready for a stunner? Spurs 93, Pistons 90." · Michael Wilbon, ESPN and Washington Post: "Yes, the Pistons are the better team. They're quicker, tougher physically and mentally, and more resolute."

And of course:

· Bill Simmons, ESPN: "If I had to bet on anyone, I'd bet on Chauncey Billups being the best player on the court tonight and kick-starting the 'Where does he rank among the best big-game guards over the past 35 years?' debate." "The Pistons are 10-0 in must-win games or deciding games over the last two springs, officially bringing the Patriots Corollary into play."

Let's see how this works out.