With the start of the NBA playoffs right around the corner, it is time for teams to prepare for the “second season” to begin. Below are INSCMagazine’s Eastern Conference quarterfinal predictions.
Atlanta Hawks (1) vs. Brooklyn Nets (8): After coasting to the best record in the East, the Atlanta Hawks draw a tough opponent in the battle-tested, veteran-laden Brooklyn Nets. While the Nets have a quality big in Brook Lopez who might be able to exploit Atlanta’s lack of a presence down low, the Hawks are too good and quick for Brooklyn. PREDICTION: Hawks in 5
Cleveland Cavaliers (2) vs. Boston Celtics (7): The hottest team in the league cruises into the post-season on a mission, in the form of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Led by LeBron James’ veteran savvy and the emerging Kyrie Irving, Cleveland opens as a 9-4 favorite to win it’s first-ever title. Too bad the over-achieving Celtics will be nothing more of a footnote in their quest. PREDICTION: Cavaliers in 5
Chicago Bulls (3) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (6): In what will be a true test of how far Derrick Rose has come since his latest injury, Chicago draws a young and scrappy Milwaukee team sure to give them problems, thanks to Michael Carter-Williams and the still-growing “Greek Freak” in Giannis Antetokounmpo. PREDICTION: Bulls in 5
Toronto Raptors (4) vs. Washington Wizards (5): The Washington Wizards picked the wrong time to go on a skid, as they face a hungry and playoff-tested Toronto Raptors squad, who has some unfinished business to attend to in the playoffs this year. PREDICTION: Raptors in 6