No NBA This Time

I intended to write something else, instead of NBA. However, I cannot, because today is the last day of regular season. At this very moment, I want to talk about my prediction of the coming playoffs and of course, I will focus on the first round.

Let’s start from the western conference.

Spurs vs. Jazz

I should congratulate Spurs that they will surely avoid being beaten by the No.8 seed which happened to them last year. If their adversary is Mavericks who holds the same record as Jazz, things may be different. Yet Jazz has a horrible home court and they will possibly not be swept.

Thunders vs. Mavericks

It should be one of the most sensational matchups in the first round, as it is the same version as last year’s western final. I believe Thunders will win the series this time, because many things have changed this season. Cowboys are getting older and older while the young Thunders are becoming more mature and competitive. Tyson’s departure is a great loss to Mavs and nobody, obviously including Odom, can replace his role as the greatest defender in the inside. Moreover, they lose the home advantage as well. However, Harden’s concussion is a big uncertainty. Also, do not forget that Mavs is the defending champion and most of the core players remain. Therefore, I believe any result could be possible.

Lakers vs. Nuggets

People have underestimated the power of Nuggets who really look great. In fact, Lakers have just three more wins than Nuggets who have three noticeable advantages: coach, passion and rotation. They may be troublemakers. Anyway, experienced Lakers with strong inside may probably close the series by 4:2, decently.

Grizzlies vs. Clippers

It will be a spectacular matchup. Both sides’ lineups are formidable. It is a great season for both teams as they have made remarkable progress. They also share another similarity that they have great players in every position. Since the two teams’ power is quite similar, details will affect the result. Home advantage and experience give Grizzlies more chances to win the series. As for me, they are likely to play all the 7 games.

Let’s see how it looks like in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls vs. 76ers

76ers is not a problem for Bulls, but Rose’s injury is a real problem for them. I maintain this awesome 76ers will not be swept this season.

Heats vs. Knicks

Many people believe it will be an amazing series. Yes and No. There are three conditions for an amazing series to take place. One is the best Baron Davis. Second condition is the good chemical, especially between Anthony and Stoudemire. Another is luck, like Linsanity, Winsanity. Maybe, from what have happened so far, this season will be an extraordinary season for NYK. Miracles happen again, or Knicks is knocked down shortly.

Pacers vs. Magic

A messy and Howard-loss Magic is likely to lose the series in 5 games.

Celtics vs. Hawks

We have to admit that Hawks have done a splendid job this season without Horford. They are not capable enough to stop Celtics in their best mood this season. Celtics will clinch the victory in 6 games.  

In conclude, there will probably be no suspense that all the top four seeds in both conferences will top their opponents.