Western Conference
Rockets (1) sweep the Timberwolves (8):
It is unlikely that the Minnesota's old school approach will be able to keep up with the offensive supernova that is the Houston Rockets.
Oklahoma City (4) beats Utah (5) in 6 games:
The Thunder are more individually talented and have more playoff experience than the Jazz and should overcome their disadvantage in defense and coaching.
Pelicans (6) lose to the Trail Blazers (3) in 7:
Anthony Davis was one of the best players in the NBA this season, and a serious contender for MVP, but his supporting cast (minus Jrue Holiday) is less than ideal. Terry Stotts is a very experienced head coach and I think he will be able to take advantage of New Orlean's lack of effective perimeter defenders.
Warriors (2) over Spurs (7) in 5:
Steph Curry's absence will hurt Golden State but they still have three of the 20 best players in the NBA. Despite San Antonio's talent deficit I would never be able to pick Gregg Popovich being swept. Expect the Spurs to steal their first home game.
Eastern Conference
Toronto (1) over Washington (8) in 7:
The Raptors are the more talented team and I think the better coached team. However, they are still the Raptors and I don't expect them to make any series easy.
Cavaliers (4) sweep the Pacers (5) :
LeBron James hasn't lost a 1st round game since before he left Miami, don't expect him to lose this series. Cleveland's defense is lacking but I doubt overachieving Indiana will be able to take advantage.
Philadelphia (3) past Miami (6) in 6:
Until Joel Embiid comes back to the 76ers I think their lack of rim protection will allow the Heat to steal a game or two. But, once he returns the Heat will be ultimately unable to overcome the talent gap.
Bucks (7) over Celtics (2) in 7
Boston's Brad Stevens is one of the best coaches in the NBA, unfortunately the advantage is mitigated somewhat by the time Milwaukee's coaches will have between games. It is also mitigated by the fact that the Bucks have one of the five best players in the NBA and the Celtics are missing their two best players.