1st Round Predictions

The playoffs start tomorrow and I'm excited. To me, two things have defined the playoffs, injuries and questions. With Kevin Garnett and Manu Ginobili out, it brings even more parody to the playoffs. Also don't forget injuries to Orlando's Jameer Nelson and Tracy McGrady. Questions, will Kobe get a ring? Will LeBron cement his "greatest player" title in these playoffs? Will the Rockets ever get out of the first round? Has age got up to the Spurs and Celtics? Is Portland to young to contend? Are Orlando and Denver for real?

A lot to, be determined. I will boldly give you, my picks for the 1st round. Tomorrow I will give out the rest of the picks, including my pick for NBA Champions. Enjoy!


East

1. Cleveland- (66-16) Cleveland 4-1
8. Detroit- (39-43)

Detroit is fading and the Cavs are shining. LeBron and Co. will take of business, on both sides of the ball, in a easy series.

2. Boston- (62-20) Boston 4-1
7. Chicago- (41-41)

No KG no problem, at least for the 1st round. Derrick Rose is an all-star in the making. But Boston still has enough firepower, to get a 2nd round appearance.

3. Orlando- (59-23) Orlando 4-1
6. Philadelphia- (41-41)

The 3's will fall and Dwight Howard will be a one man wrecking crew. Philly will score points, which should make this series a high scoring affair.

4. Atlanta- (47-35) Atlanta 4-3
5. Miami- (43-39)

This series is too close to call. Wade is amazing player, with no help. The Hawks have multiple players they can throw at Wade. Hawks prevail in a very exciting series.

West

1. Los Angeles (65-17) Los Angeles 4-1
8. Utah (48-34)

LA has too much, for Utah to handle. Utah will steal one at home. This series should get the Lakers warmed up for the 2nd round.

2. Denver (54-28) Denver 4-2
7. New Orleans (49-33)

Chris Paul will give all Denver can handle. However, Billups, Melo, and J.R. Smith will score at will. New Orleans has Paul, but that will not be enough.

3. San Antonio (54-28) San Antonio 4-2
6. Dallas (50-32)

No Ginobili, means Roger Mason, Matt Bonner, and Drew Gooden must step up. Dallas is playing good ball right now. But the Spurs will get the big plays from their bench. Parker should have a good series.

4. Portland (54-28) Portland 4-3
5. Houston (53-29)

In a very competitive series. Yao will score and the Rockets will play D. But Portland has home- court, which will put them over the top.