This years playoffs have already gotten off to a dramatic start. Starting off in the eastern conference, the Miami Heat(1) look to close out the series against the Atlanta Hawks(8) in Miami tonight. The Heat lead the series 3-1. The Heat were swept in last years first round of the playoffs by the Milwaukee Bucks. They’ve added a few significant pieces like P.J. Tucker and others to have another shot at the NBA finals. The Hawks are returning to the playoffs after an unexpected eastern conference final run last year that ended in the hands of the Milwaukee Bucks 4-2. The Hawks will look to extend their series against the heat April 26.
The Boston Celtics(2) have swept the Brooklyn Nets(7). The Celtics young core couldn’t be stopped as they cruised their way through the Nets. The Nets had no answer as the Celtics threw double teams and other defensive tactics at Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
The defending champs, Milwaukee Bucks(3) look to punch their ticket into the second round of the playoffs as they lead their series against the Chicago Bulls(6) 3-1. After Kris Middleton’s injury in game 2, the Bucks have remained consistent. They will be facing a tough Celtics team in the second round if they beat the Bulls April 27.
The Philadelphia 76ers(4) took a commanding 3-0 lead against the Toronto Raptors(5). The Raptors are beginning to fight back as they have won the last two games. The series is now 3-2 and if the 76ers are not able to closeout the Raptors April 28 there will be a game 7.
Now, we make our way to the western conference. The Phoenix Suns(1) against the New Orlean Pelicans(8). This series is 2-2 and the momentum is shifting toward the Pelicans after Devin Booker injured his hamstring. Former Alabama guard, Herb Jones has been a huge game changer in this series and he looks to add to his rookie of the year case.
The Memphis Grizzlies(2) are in a tied series with the Minnesota Timberwolves(7) 2-2. Both teams look evenly matched and neither looks to be backing down. This series can go to game 7 where the best team will advance to the second round.
The Golden State Warriors(3) are looking to advance to the second round as they look to closeout the Denver Nuggets(6). The Denver Nuggets have been no match for the Golden State Warriors but they will not go down without a fight.
The Dallas Mavericks(4) lead their series against the Utah Jazz(5) 3-2. Both teams have been equally matched and we could possibly see a game 7 in Dallas.
