Western Conference
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers
With the Warriors being the Warriors, I see them easily winning this series. But I could see the Clippers stealing one game. Warriors in 5.
Denver Nuggets vs. San Antonio Spurs
The Nuggets have proven themselves worthy of this seed this season, and I see them winning this series. But San Antonio, of course, always brings more intensity come playoff time, so don’t be surprised if the Spurs take two games. Denver in 6.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Even though the Blazers do have the higher seed and the better record, the Thunder still have the man who averaged a triple double three seasons in a row, Russell Westbrook, and an MVP candidate, Paul George. Thunder in 6.
Houston Rockets vs. Utah Jazz
Even with the Jazz being one of the best defensive teams in the league, the Houston Rockets have just too much offensive power for the Jazz to handle. Harden will have a great series. Houston in 5.
Eastern Conference
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Detroit Pistons
The Bucks own the best record in the entire league this season and with the MVP candidate/superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks should easily win this series. Bucks in 4.
Toronto Raptors vs. Orlando Magic
The Raptors have former finals MVP, Kawhi Leonard, All-Star Kyle Lowry, and a great supporting cast built around them. The Magic just don’t seem to have the starpower to compete with this well-rounded Toronto team. Toronto in 5.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Brooklyn Nets
The 76ers have a talented, young squad with great starpower: Ben Simmons, Jimmy Butler and Joel Embiid. The Nets on the other hand also have a great young team led by D’angelo Russell who should be able to compete with the 76ers. Still 76ers in 6.
Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers
The Celtics have not performed to expectations this season, but still have the starpower and playoff intensity, led by Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, to make it far in the playoffs. With the Pacers missing their all-star and best player, Victor Oladipo, it’s not looking too good for them. Celtics in 4.