Okay, this is going to be fun. Well, in the Western
Conference at least. Let’s do this:
Western Conference Playoff Prediction:
1. Spurs over 8. Mavs in 4.
-The Dallas defense is horrible. Leonard will neutralize Monta and
it would take an awesome Dirk performance to even get a win in this series.
Whatever the offensive efficiency record is for a series, I think the Spurs
threaten it in this warmup.
2. Thunder over 7. Grizzlies in 5.
-I think the absence of Nick Calathes will hurt the Grizzlies
more than most think. I have no idea who guards Durant. Or Westbrook actually
(I like Mike Conley a lot….but not on Westbrook).
3. Clippers over 6. Warriors in 5.
-This is a depth issue more than anything. Oh, and Blake/Jordan
are salivating knowing they are getting DLee/Draymond.
4. Rox over 5. Blazers in 5.
-Nice thought, no way. Harden and Dwight ensure a first
round win. Blazers are MUCH better next year from the experience.
Easter Conference Playoff Prediction:
1. Pacers over 8. Hawks in 4.
-NBA TV! Respect to the Hawks’ coaching, but no way. The
talent disparity is huge here.
2. HEAT over 7. Bobcats in 6.
-I actually like this matchup a bit because Kemba is feisty,
Big Al has no counterpart on the other team, and the Bobcats play defense with
viable wing defenders. That gets them to a sixth game, not much further.
6. Nets over 3. Raptors in 7.
-Great series. Wish I could pick the Raptors but I just
cannot. The Nets have too much veteran acumen.
4. Bulls over 5. Wizards in 6.
-Reason number 1, Joakim Noah. Reason number 2, this is the
Wizards first rodeo. Reason number 3, Thibs.
Title Prediction:
At this point, I think the Spurs are the best team, bar none.
I have the Thunder winning the title because they are the one team the Spurs
have a problem with. In the easy, I am going to stay on my preseason Pacers
pick.
