The second round of the NBA Playoffs is here, and what have we won? Another set of series that leaves us saying, “whatever” (except for one).
Let’s make this quick, shall we?
Eastern Conference
#1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs. #4 Atlanta Hawks
Analysis: The 2016 Hawks are better than the one who got swept by Cleveland in last year’s conference finals. The problem is the Cavs are still much better than them. If I only had a remote and could fast-forward through to the conference finals…
Prediction: Cavs in 5.
#2 Toronto Raptors vs. #3 Miami Heat
Analysis: Another series that I wish I could fast-forward through, though it may be more competitive than Cavs-Hawks. While I am happy for Toronto fans and coach Dwane Casey for FINALLY advancing out of the first round, Miami has too much talent and better coaching.
Prediction: Heat in 6.
Western Conference
#1 Golden State Warriors vs. #5 Portland Trail Blazers
Analysis: No Steph Curry for at least half this series, no problem. The Warriors are light-years ahead of the Blazers. Time to break out the remote control again…
Prediction: Warriors in a sweep.
#2 San Antonio Spurs vs. #3 Oklahoma City Thunder
Analysis: This is the only series that I will care about in this round. In fact, I expect this series to be a classic. Either team can (and will) give the Warriors fits in the conference finals. I give the Spurs the nod on the strength of coaching alone. Gregg Popovich will coach circles around Billy Donovan.
Prediction: Spurs in 7.
Categories: NBA, sports story
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