Man… how about the Western Conference. So many teams have stepped up this year, with there being 7 teams with 50+ wins. It’s crazy that some of the lower-seeded teams in the West would be a top 4 team in the East. With the playoffs starting on Saturday, every series is going to be great. Let’s look at the series that will be happening, with predictions.
(1)San Antonio Vs. (8) Dallas: San Antonio in 5. This will be a fun series to watch, but it’s going to end quick. Dallas’ defense just isn’t good enough to stop San Antonio’s offense. Dirk will step up for Dallas, but it isn’t going to be enough. San Antonio is healthy. And when they’re healthy, they’re almost unbeatable.
(2) Oklahoma City Vs. (7) Memphis: Oklahoma City in 6. A playoff rematch from last year. Memphis was able to knock out Oklahoma City in five games last year, but Russell Westbrook was out at the time. With Westbrook on the floor, OKC is a whole different team. Don’t get me wrong though, Memphis will put up a fight. Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol are always ready for a dogfight, and that’s what they’re going to get. In the end, Kevin Durant will get his revenge and beat Memphis, continuing his MVP season.
(3)Los Angeles Clippers Vs. (6) Golden State: Los Angeles in 7. Let’s go ahead and get this out of the way; the Clippers and the Warriors absolutely hate each other. Every time they play, you know there’s going to be a fight. And with these two teams, there’s probably going to be many fights. I really like what’s going on in Clipperland, and they’re ready for a serious postseason run. But, Golden State won’t let them have it easy. Even though they’ve been a little on and off this year, I expect them to be ready for the playoffs. If there’s one player that really needs to step up, it’s Harrison Barnes. He’s been really inconsistent this year, but lately, he’s been looking better. If he plays how he did in last years playoffs, Golden State might get a little lucky. But with Andrew Bogut out, I can’t see it happening.
(4)Houston Vs. (5) Portland: Houston in 6. Man, this is going to be a good series. Two of the top offenses going at it in a seven game series, how much better does it get? Houston is a darkhorse contender, while Portland has slipped off just a bit. Houston has won the season series 3-1, but they haven’t been easy. A few missed layups and free throws could completely change this series. Luckily, Houston will have Patrick Beverley back to take on Damian Lillard. This playoff series will be good experience for Portland, but Houston is ready to take the next step, and they will. Houston has really come together as a team, and it’s scary at how good they can be.
How can you not be excited for these playoff series? They’re going to be great. Buckle up, folks, it’s go time.
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