Here are my bold predictions for round 2 of the NBA playoffs:
Denver Pushes Oklahoma City to Six Games
On paper, Oklahoma City should dominate Denver, but the Nuggets’ lineup features the NBA’s best player in Nikola Jokic. Denver’s experience and playoff pedigree will make things uncomfortable for the Thunder, pushing the series to a game six.
Minnesota Over Golden State in Five
Minnesota’s frontcourt dominated the Lakers. Los Angeles had no answer for the combination of Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid. On the opposite end, Houston’s Alperen Sengun had his way against the Warriors. Minnesota’s Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid dominate in the paint and lead the Timberwolves to the Conference Finals in five games.
Derrick White Averages 25 PPG
New York will be overly concerned with guarding Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, leaving Derrick White with an unprecedented number of open looks. White has a knack for going on a run when he feels it, and this will be a series where the Celtics guard averages 25 PPG in the Conference Semifinals.
Darius Garland’s Toe Injury Leads to Pacers in Six
Garland was forced to miss game one due to his lingering left toe sprain. Assuming it’s his big toe, this is the part of the foot that carries most of the blunt force when he drives to the lane or pushes off to sprint up and down the court. Garland is not a strong defender to begin with, and the inability to withstand pressure on his big toe can lead to inefficiency when he returns to Cleveland’s lineup. Indiana had a high number of open looks in game one, and this may be the same story in game two.
Cleveland’s Offense Trails Throughout Game Two in Garland’s Absence
Cleveland had a dynamic offense throughout the regular season with Garland on the court. The point guard was second on the team in PPG (20.6), first in assists (6.7), and second in minutes (30.7). His absence was a glaring hole in game one, causing Cleveland to trail throughout the game following the opening tip. If Darius Garland is to miss game two, Cleveland will trail throughout for a second-straight game.
Boston Will Win 4 Straight After Losing Game 1
Jalen Brunson’s heroics saved New York’s season. The Knicks allowed Detroit to hang around all series, and the Pistons were nearly victorious. Boston is looking to repeat as NBA champions and feature a veteran roster. New York’s lack of defense and playing from behind won’t cut it against the Celtics moving forward in this series.