NBA playoff predictions: 1st round.
Denver Nuggets (1) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (8) - Nuggets in 5
Although the Nuggets have struggled down the final stretch of the regular season I expect a fairly easy victory. The T-wolves over-matched in terms of talent not to mention totally dysfunctional. Two of a teams rotation players getting into a physical altercation in the final game of the regular season, Rudy Gobert and Kyle Anderson, does not usually portend a strong playoff performance. Even if the vibes were better, I'd expect Nikola Jokic to cut them to shreds.
Phoenix Suns (4) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (5) - Suns in 6
If Paul George was totally healthy I would seriously consider picking the Clippers. On paper no team in the Western Conference poses a tougher challenge for the Suns; the Clips have a collection of long, tough defenders they can throw at Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. However, without George I do not think they have enough offensive juice to win a seven-game series.
Sacramento Kings (3) vs. Golden State Warriors (6) - Warriors in 7
As much as I'd like to pick the feel-good Kings I worry about their lack of playoff experience, especially in comparison to the Warriors (who probably have more than any team in the league). I worry about their defense too. For as good as Domantas Sabonis is offensively, I have trouble imagining him effectively guarding the Warriors blender.
Memphis Grizzlies (2) vs Los Angeles Lakers (7) - Grizzlies in 6
Frontcourt vs. Backcourt will decide this series. With injuries to Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke the Grizzlies are perilously thin up front. They will have a great deal of trouble guarding Anthony Davis, especially if Jaren Jackson Jr. gets into foul trouble, as he is wont to do. On the other hand, who on the Lakers is going to guard Ja Morant or Desmond Bane? D'Angelo Russell is a turnstile, Austin Reaves is solid but not a stopper. Whichever team can exploit the others weakness will win. Ultimately I think that will be the Grizzlies, they have more overall talent and a less wonky roster than the Lakers.
Milwaukee Bucks (1) vs. Miami Heat (8) - Bucks in 4
On route to their championship in 2021 the Bucks unceremoniously swept the Heat out of the playoffs. I believe that will happen again. Frankly, this Heat team is not very good, while the Bucks are experienced, confident, and talented. Giannis Antetokounmpo remains undeniable.
Cleveland Cavaliers (4) vs. New York Knicks (5) - Cavaliers in 7
I suspect this series will be extremely entertaining no matter who wins it. In the end, I picked the Cavs since they have the best offensive player in the series, Donovan Mitchell, and the best defensive player in the series, Evan Mobley, as well.
Philadelphia 76ers (3) vs. Brooklyn Nets (6) - 76ers in 6
If the Nets manage to pull off the upset, it is panic time in Philly. This Nets team has some nice players, but they are not real contenders and they know it. With Joel Embiid the Sixers are better on both sides of the ball and should dominate. I picked six games since the Sixers always seem to manage one or two head scratching playoff losses.
Boston Celtics (2) vs. Atlanta Hawks (7) - Celtics in 5
As a Hawks homer I will give Atlanta one game. In truth I would be surprised if they even got that. Not only are the Celtics very talented, they are a terrible match-up for the Hawks. There is nowhere for Trae Young to hide while on defense and when he's on offense the Celtics can harass him with a myriad of good defensive players.
Originally Published 4/15/23