NBA Round 2 Playoff Predictions

Photo courtesy of www.cbssports.com

After a very exciting first round of the NBA playoffs, the second round is shaping up to be just as entertaining. Throughout the first round, we have seen many games that came down to the last second, and I expect the second round to follow the same pattern. Here are my predictions for each playoff matchup in round two 

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets 

There is no doubt that this series is easily the most highly anticipated series in the playoffs. With each team having some of the best players in the NBA on their rosters, the series could really go any way. The legend and veteran LeBron James, who is playing in his 17th NBA season, is hoping to lead his Lakers past James Harden and the red hot Rockets who have been knocking down three-pointers better than anyone else in the league. This series is a classic example of the best defense in the league (the Lakers) playing against the best offense in the league (the Rockets), and basketball fans are loving it. I predict that the Lakers put on a defensive show and win the series in seven games. 

Denver Nuggets vs. the Los Angeles Clippers 

Unlike the other L.A. team, the Clippers rely mostly on offense to win their games, with most of the points coming from their star player, Kawhi Leonard. The Nuggets have been pushed forward in these playoffs by their young guard Jamal Murray, who is averaging 27 points per game. While the Nuggets have a strong defense and an explosive three-point shooter in Murray, I don’t see them overcoming the greatness of Kawhi and the Clippers. I predict the Clippers to win this series in six games. 

Miami Heat vs. Milwaukee Bucks 

Coming into this series, the Heat were seen as massive underdogs, having to go up against one of the best players in the league right now, Giannis Antetokounmpo. But the Heat came out firing on all cylinders and won the first three games of the series. And to make things worse for the Bucks, Antetokounmpo suffered a twisted ankle in game four and did not return. The outcome of this series will be dependent on whether or not Antetokounmpo can return and stay healthy. I predict that the Heat will take this series in six games and pull off the ultimate upset. 

Boston Celtics vs. Toronto Raptors 

After the departure of Kawhi Leonard, many people didn’t think the Raptors had enough talent to make it back this far into the playoffs. But here they are. Unfortunately, I think the Cinderella story for Toronto ends in this series, as the talent on the Celtics is undeniably great. With their young guard Jayson Tatum playing the best basketball of his career, and the depth of their bench, I don’t see the Raptors coming out of this series ahead. I predict the Celtics to take this series in game seven. 

Overall, Round Two of the NBA playoffs is shaping up to be one to remember, and it makes every basketball fan excited for Round Three. Make sure to tune into ESPN to catch all the action.