Conference Semifinals Predictions

The first-round matchups of the NBA Playoffs were riveting. LeBron was threatened in the Eastern Conference for the first time in recent memory, the Pelicans quickly discarded the Portland Trail Blazers, and the 76ers put to sleep any suspicions surrounding their youth and inexperience as they throttled a very capable Miami team. Here’s how I think the conference semifinals will play out.

Eastern Conference

(1) Toronto Raptors vs. (4) Cleveland Cavaliers. Until LeBron gets knocked off, I am not picking against him. It’s that simple. The main question heading into the playoffs for LeBron and company surrounded their defense. Against the Pacers, the Cavaliers had an above average defensive rating. Given their offensive potency, if Cleveland can muster the same defensive effort moving forward they will be tough to beat. Toronto has had a commendable season, but it halts here. Cavaliers in 6.

(2) Boston Celtics vs. (3) Philadelphia 76ers. Brad Stevens is to coach as LeBron James is to player. He’s that much better than his peers and so Boston certainly has a chance against the Sixers, but Philadelphia will have the two best players in this series: Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. Stevens will be able to throw multiple bodies at both budding superstars, but it will prove to be fruitless. 76ers in 6.

Western Conference

(1) Houston Rockets vs. (4) Utah Jazz. Donovan Mitchell should have worn a cap and gown after beating the Thunder in six games. He graduated; he is now officially a superstar. With that said, even if Ricky Rubio were healthy, I would still heavily favor the Rockets and their three-point salvo, so with the Spaniard sidelined Quin Snyder’s squad is in for a rough series. I expect James Harden and Chris Paul to really exploit Utah in the pick and roll and in effect negate the defensive impact that Rudy Gobert had in the prior series and in much of the regular season. Rockets in 5.

(2) Golden State Warriors vs. (6) New Orleans Pelicans. If Steph Curry remains hobbled this series could get interesting. Jrue Holiday and Anthony Davis were sensational as they stifled Portland on route to a surprising first-round sweep. This matchup has all of the makings to be a classic, especially if AD can go supernova. Ultimately, I think the Warriors will prevail in a tough fought series. Warriors in 6.