Playoff prediction time - Conference Semifinals
The second-round of the NBA playoffs have just begun, which means it's prediction time once again.
San Antonio Spurs (1) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (5)
The San Antonio Spurs are a very well drilled team, and are always going to be a tough opponent. That said, the Clippers did show that they can play some solid basketball, proving they have depth and have the metal toughness to hang around in both close and not so close games. Tony Parker against Chris Paul is going to be a very entertaining point guard battle. Expect those two to go at it each game.
All in all, I can't see the experienced Spurs dropping this series. However, I do think the Clippers will steal a victory or two in Los Angeles.
Prediction: San Antonio Spurs 4-1
Oklahoma City Thunder (2) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (3)
This series is going to be intense, especially with Metta World Peace back for Game 1 after elbowing James Harden, who just so happens to be on the team the Lakers face in this series. I'm sure we will see a lot of physicality in each game from both the bigs and smalls.
All things considered, the rested Thunder should get it done against the Lakers, but not easily. I've got this series going the distance.
Then again, Kobe Bryant could prove me wrong and the Lakers could advance.
Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 4-3
Boston Celtics (4) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (8)
Experience is going to be a huge contributing factor for the Celtics against a somewhat raw Philadelphia 76ers. Rondo is at his very best at the moment, and if he continues to put up triple-double like numbers the Celtics will cruise to victory. With that said, the Sixers are have been playing well under Doug Collins, and do have a reasonable chance in this series.
This Celtics should get them over the line when it's all said and done, though.
Prediction: Boston Celtics 4-2
Miami Heat (2) vs. Indiana Pacers (3)
Led by the NBA's MVP, LeBron James, the Miami Heat are a special team, who look unstoppable at times. The Indiana Pacers must find a way to slow down James and Wade if they have any chance in this series.
Despite losing Chris Bosh to injury, the Heat should move on after six or maybe even seven games. That is if the Heat can stop West and Hibbert in the paint without Bosh.
Prediction: Miami Heat 4-2