Palmdale still has plenty of chances left
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Golden League play has certainly gotten off to a rocky start for Palmdale.
Leading scorer Justin Haynes sprained an ankle in an OT loss to Quartz Hill on Wednesday and, on Friday, the Haynes-less Falcons got hit with a 70-58 loss to Knight. Now I know losing Haynes and his typical output of more than 21 ppg is a big blow to the green and black, but the Falcons must win their next three games against Antelope Valley, Littlerock and Eastside to stay in the postseason hunt.
It’s important the Falcons don’t trip over this next trio of winnable games. Guards Arvin Garcia and Jorge Lepley need to step it up a notch with Haynes on the sidelines. Garcia proved his worth on Friday, finishing with 15 points and six assists. However, we know he can do more -- after all, he thrilled crowds in the Great White North last month with a 39-point, 10-assist performance against Edmonton (Alberta) Jasper Place.
In short, a trip to the postseason party is still inbounds for Palmdale as long as it plays to its capabilities. I’d be shocked if Highland or Lancaster went undefeated, and I think a five-loss team still has a decent shot at the playoffs (remember last year?).
-- Austin Knoblauch
