NBA Playoff Predictions

This pick comes with no surprises. After the injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo hindering the Milwaukee Bucks, the Celtics have a clear path to winning the East. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown in the backcourt can dominate any defense. Any of the Celtics role players can put on a show, whether it's Malcom Brogdon, Peyton Pritchard, or Derrick White. Al Horford and Robin Williams can outplay any big men in the league. After their finals loss to the Warriors last year, this young team that finished second in the Eastern Conference will be hungry for their first ring since 2008. 

Someone has to come out of the West, and the Suns are ready for the playoffs. After equipping Kevin Durant at the trade deadline, one of the greatest scorers of all time, this team is looking like the avengers. They made it to the finals and even gained a 2-0 lead on the Bucks in 2021. While they did have a playoff meltdown last year in game 7 against the Mavericks, this team will come back from their slight problems in game 1 against the Clippers, losing by 5 points. Devin Booker is ready for revenge and will make sure to play hard in honor of his mentor, Kobe Bryant. Chris Paul is ready to “hang them up”, but winning his first championship is enough motivation to go far this year. This is another young team mixed with veterans with enough experience to make it far. 

Flying way under the radar, this third place team is sporting the weapons that they need to complete “the process” Joel Embiid is on a tear and a top 2 in the MVP debate. James Harden is a great facilitator and shooter, powered by his drive to win his first ring. They were good enough to finish in 3rd and are playing the Brooklyn Nets in round 1. Tyrese Maxey has playoff experience at a young age and can give you 20 points on any given night.  WIth Joel Embiid’s drive to win a ring before it's too late, I see this team making a run.

For the first time in 16 years, the Kings have made the playoffs. Landing in the 3 seed and winning game one against the defending champ Warriors, this team has a chance at making it through the west. If they can contain playoff Steph Curry, they will definitely be able to beat the Warriors. Domantas Sabonis and De'aaron Fox are playing out of their minds, and fueled by the idea of lighting a purple beam at their home stadium for every win, they will prove the last 16 years of mediocrity useful.