NBA FINALS

Q&A; of the day

Question: As the Lakers cruise to what I think will be another successful free taco night, a question hits me: Does Jack Nicholson ever cash in his ticket stub for free tacos?

-- Justin Weaver, Honolulu

Answer: I’m inclined to say no, but that wouldn’t be much fun.

So let’s assume Nicholson accepts his free taco coupon as he leaves Staples Center and heads to the Jack in the Box near the intersection of Santa Monica and Westwood boulevards.

What would you do if you’re the cashier and one of the best actors of all time hands you a coupon for two tacos?

Say in a low voice, “Uh, Mr. Nicholson, this one’s on us. Keep the coupon.”

Or exclaim loudly that if he couldn’t handle the truth, there’s no way he could ever handle the spicy crispy chipotle chicken ciabatta.

Or giggle nervously and say, “Hey, wow, your name’s Jack and you’re here at Jack in the Box. How ironic.”

(On second thought, let’s hope Nicholson never accepts the free taco coupon.)

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Power to the people

The Orlando Sentinel received plenty of responses after asking readers if they had suggestions for Magic Coach Stan Van Gundy after Game 1.

A reader named Patrick said that reserve guard J.J. Redick needed more playing time, and reader Dee Mack said Jameer Nelson should not play that much because he wasn’t part of the playoff run until now.

Then there was this suggestion from Charles: “Go home. Just quit because you aren’t worthy to be in the Finals after an embarrassment like Game 1.”

And I thought Lakers fans were harsh after a loss.

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Weather check

Just looked at the forecast for the next several days in Orlando.

High 80s and into the 90s with something like 732% humidity.

Any way the Lakers can close out the series tonight?

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Final thought

Dwight Howard will make more than one shot this time, but Game 2 feels like another Lakers victory.

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