2008 Playoffs - First Round Predictions (East)
Ah, the playoffs. A lot of people say that this is the start of the true NBA season. Now that the matchups are finally set after a wild homestretch, it’s time for PinoyNBA to check the crystal ball. Lets start off with the Eastern Conference matchups. Note that I’m not even mentioning regular season matchup results. That don’t mean crap in the playoffs.
Boston Celtics (1) vs. Atlanta Hawks (8)
The Hawks got into the post-season thanks to the Wizards. Mike Bibby and Joe Johnson both have some playoff experience to lead them but let’s face it, the C’s are the best team in the league and will swat their first-round opponent like a fly. Celts in 4.
Detroit Pistons (2) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (7)
The Pistons are a been-there-done-that club that don’t seem to get bothered by playoff pressure anymore. Sure, they were demolished by LeBron last year but Igoudala ain’t no LBJ. I’d say Pistons in 5. They will lose a game because Rasheed Wallace’s head ain’t screwed on properly.
Orlando Magic (3) vs Toronto Raptors (6)
The Raps don’t have anyone in the middle to stop Superman. Plus he’s got one of the top Most Improved Player candidates (Turkoglu) and the highest-paid 3rd option in the NBA (Lewis). Sorry Bosh & Co., Orlando gets this in 6.
Cleveland (4) vs Washington (5)
Now where have I seen this matchup before? The Cavs really didn’t get better with the trade that brought in Ben Wallace. I liked Gooden better. Yes, it’s the beard over the afro. We’ll see the best of LeBron in this series (hopefully some devastating slams in DeShawn Stevenson’s face) but I see the more-balanced Wizards squeaking by in a down-the-wire battle. Washington in 7.
Stay tuned for the Western Conference picks.