Boston 106, Chicago 104 OT: We’ll keep our thoughts brief because we’re still angry about this loss, mostly because Chicago led by 11 in the fourth, but also because Vinny Del Negro coached a terrible final quarter and overtime. 1) When the Celtics cut into the 11-point lead, he should have called a timeout to settle his young team. It appeared as if an assistant was urging him to do so. You’re not Phil Jackson, rookie. 2) Horrible final play of regulation. Ten seconds of Ben Gordon dribbling around for a 20-footer? Should have been Rose attacking to shoot, kick out for an open jumper, or go to the line. 3) Should have subbed in for Salmons on any of the final three possessions when Pierce easily shot over him. Why not Ty Thomas? Chicago had this one. No Ray Allen in overtime, and Boston won it with Tony Allen and Marbury on the floor? When’s that going to happen again? As for Rondo’s slap to Brad Miller in the final seconds … can’t call a flagrant there in that spot. It sure was close, though.

Orlando 91, Philadelphia 78: Dwight Howard scored 24 points and took 24 rebounds and the Magic lead the series 3-2. The loss prompted Philly coach Tony DiLeo to bitch about Superman camped out in the lane. “He lives in the three-second lane on offense and defense … I’m just saying that he’s standing in the three-second lane on offense and defense.” Before you advance the Magic to the semifinals, let’s see what the status is of rookie guard Courtney Lee, who took a Howard elbow in the head in the first quarter and didn’t return. Elbow also his Sam Dalembert with a blatant elbow early in the game, probably to send a message. There’s zero chance he gets suspended for game six, but if it were a lesser star or a bench player, Stern might have them sit. Magic lead 3-2.

Dallas 106, San Antonio 93: The Spurs went quietly, with a whimper. The Mavs jumped out early; the Spurs rallied. The Mavs came out blazing in the second half; the Spurs had no answer. And that was it, underdog Dallas advanced to the second round for the first time since 2006. Spurs not named Parker or Duncan shot a combined 14-for-33; Roger Mason, the guy everyone pegged as the next Robert Horry, played just 12 minutes. His minutes dwindled with each game, and he scored just eight points in the final three games of the series. Dallas-Denver should be a track meet with each game in the 115-110 range.

Portland 88, Houston 77: Altogether now – Portland in seven! Portland in seven! If a reliable third scorer could arrive to help Roy (25 points) and Aldridge (25, too), we’d feel more confident. At least game six will have a national audience. Perhaps Aaron Brooks will take another 20 shots (made six), the Rockets will commit a ton of fouls and turn the ball over at an alarming rate.