George Klein
Western
Conference
(1) OKC
Thunder vs. (8) Houston Rockets
The Thunder had a
relatively easy season, steamrolling the conference to the first seed. Kevin
Durant and Russell Westbrook were good as always, and Kevin Martin brings
offensive punch off the bench. The Rockets rode GM Daryl Morey’s moneyballish
moves to a surprising finish in the playoffs. The Rockets are led by James
Harden, traded by the Thunder last off season who is definitely looking for
redemption. Despite Harden’s best efforts though , the outlook does not look
good for the Rockets this series.
Prediction:
Thunder in 5
(2)
San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) Los Angeles Lakers
A season for the
Lakers filled with ups and downs finally reaches its end in this series. With
Kobe Bryant out for the season with a torn Achilles, the situation is bleak.
Can Dwight Howard show the maturity to lead this team? Can he and Pau Gasol
work well together when they are on the court at the same time? Can Nash return
from injury pain-free and 100%? In any case, Dwight Howard is going to have to
make his free throws for the Lakers to entertain thoughts of an upset; he shot
under 50% for the season and teams frequently employed the Hack-a-Howard
strategy. The Spurs meanwhile keep chugging along. Tim Duncan was as good as
ever, Tony Parker had a great season, which, before he was struck by injury,
placed him in the MVP conversation (before Lebron went crazy of course).
Prediction: Spurs
in 5
(3) Denver
Nuggets vs. (6) Golden State Warriors
The Nuggets took
several steps forward this season, the capper a 15 game winning streak. But
with Danillo Gallinari out for the season, things will get tougher for the team
this series. On the other side the Warriors led by Steph Curry’s
record-breaking three point field goals, made a surprise run to the playoffs.
Game 1 though was heartbreaking for the team with Andre Miller’s buzzer beater
and losing David Lee for the rest of the season. The Nuggets are more athletic
with Andre Iguodala, and have reason to be confidant.
Prediction:
Nuggets in 6
(4) Los
Angeles Clippers vs. (5) Memphis Grizzlies
This rematch from
last year’s postseason will be hard-fought and closely contested. After trading
away Rudy Gay, the Grizzlies have soared, led by their center Marc Gasol. Lob
City is in full force, with Chris Paul and Blake Griffin each having
magnificent seasons. The teams are play the same styles as last season, and
looking at the exciting series they played, this series is one to watch for.
Prediction: Clippers
in 7
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