Desperation in sports is the easiest way to get yourself in trouble. Teams start panicking and every little mistake starts to snowball on you, and before you know it you are left with more questions than answers. Just look at Chelsea heading into its critical showdown with Arsenal.
The Blues are currently sixth in Premier League play right now. They badly need a win to get back into international competition. A disappointing draw against Fulham on April 9 has put their backs to the wall.
Arsenal hasn't exactly been setting the world on fire lately, particularly that shocking defeat at the hands of Wigan.
Still, the Gunners are in prime position to be in the Champions League next year. They need a win as much as Chelsea, but a loss wouldn't be a crippling blow to their chances.
Even with Mikel Arteta done for the season with an ankle injury, Arsenal has turned its fortunes around after a slow start to the year. It isn't necessarily back to being a premier club, but optimism is certainly a lot higher now than it was six months ago.
When you look at what Chelsea has waiting in the wings, this match takes on the utmost importance. Barcelona, arguably the best club in the world, will be licking its chops to get hold of the Blues, especially after Barca's critical showdown with Real Madrid this weekend.
Now is the time for Chelsea to make a statement. But when you put a team's back to the wall, you figure out just how strong they are.
The Blues are going to make big mistakes early, particularly on offense, where they have been inconsistent for much of the Premier League. All of that will put them in a position where the ultimate result is big letdown against Arsenal.
J.R Smith Kenyon Martin Chauncey Billups Carmelo Anthony Tayshon Prince Tracy McGrady
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