We’re here to preview each series in the 1st round of the NBA Playoffs!
Eastern Conference
76ers/Knicks: 76ers
Great watchability – rivalry and superstars on both sides
Pacers/Bucks: Bucks
Drama surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury and the struggles with Doc Rivers. Pacers playing with confidence and nothing to lose
Magic/Cavaliers: Cavaliers
Young, exciting players on both sides but outside of Donovan Mitchell, this series lacks star firepower.
Celtics/Heat: No Jimmy Butler means this series is likely nothing more than a forgone conclusion. This series will likely serve as a tune-up for Boston.
Western Conference
Nuggets/Lakers: Nuggets
Superstars on both sides, and rematch of the Western Conference Finals last year. Lakers may be something of a nuisance, but the Nuggets are the better team.
Suns/Timberwolves: Suns
Evenly matched teams but going with the more experienced playoff team and the team with the best player in this series, Kevin Durant. Can easily be a 7 game series.
Mavericks/Clippers: Mavericks
Clippers have great star power, but murkiness surrounding Kawhi Leonard yet again. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are playing great basketball right now.
Pelicans/Thunder: Thunder
No Zion Williamson takes a lot of energy out of this series. Pelicans may win a game but Thunder are rested and have too much offensive firepower.