Well, the Eastern Conference…. Not much to really say. Let’s just say it wasn’t one of the strongest years for the Eastern Conference. But, there’s still Miami and Indiana. You could also throw Toronto in the mix, who has had an amazing season. Let’s look at the Eastern Conference first round matchups, with predictions.
(1) Indiana Vs (8) Atlanta: Indiana in 5. Indiana has been in an awful slump. Paul George hasn’t played like a superstar, and Roy Hibbert is starting to receive comparisons to Kwame Brown, which is a slap in the face to NBA centers. Atlanta has had a solid season, but they absolutely don’t deserve to be in the playoffs. The team doesn’t have a wining record, why should they be playing? Sure, they’ll put up a nice fight, but this series is going to end quick. I still think Phoenix should take Atlanta’s spot. Indiana will get out of their slump and end this series quick.
(2) Miami Vs (7) Charlotte: Miami in 5. What a great year it’s been in Charlotte. After years of being one of the worst teams in the league, they’re finally back in the postseason. Al Jefferson has been an absolute stud this year, and should’ve been an All-Star. Unfortunately, they have to play the two-time defending champions. Miami doesn’t have the best momentum heading into the playoffs, but you know LeBron James will be locked in on a three-peat. And if Dwyane Wade can be relatively healthy with Chris Bosh stepping up, I expect Miami to win this series easily.
(3) Toronto Vs (6) Brooklyn: Toronto in 7. The best first-round series in the Eastern Conference. Toronto has had a great season, and Brooklyn has finally turned things around. Even though I picked Toronto to win this series, I will not be surprised at all if Brooklyn wins. Brooklyn has more experience, and for some Raptors players, it’s their first time in the playoffs. For DeMar Derozan, he could really make a name for himself in these playoffs. He’s had a great season, and playoffs is really where you have to show up. Another reason I have Toronto winning is because of the home-court advantage. Those Raptors fans are going to be absolutely crazy, and that is why we love the NBA Playoffs.
(4) Chicago vs (5) Washington: Chicago in 6. This is going to be an interesting series. I really have no idea what to expect from it. Chicago has had another great season without Derrick Rose, thanks to Joakim Noah. Washington also had a great season with John Wall and Bradley Beal stepping up. Chicago does have trouble scoring sometimes, but they’ll get the job done. They always come out and play with a lot of heart, which will get them through Washington.
Even though some of these teams aren’t the best, it will still be an entertaining first round in the Eastern Conference. Let’s just hope we still get our long-awaited Miami vs Indiana series.
Thank you for reading. Please take a moment to follow me on Twitter – @matttheballer23. Support LWOS by following us on Twitter –@LastWordOnSport – and “liking” our Facebook page.
Interested in writing for LWOS? We are looking for enthusiastic, talented writers to join our Basketball writing team. Visit our “Write for Us” page for very easy details in how you can get started today!
