What happened???????How many times have I heard that in the last 48 hours? Massive upsets, minor upsets, upsets of all kinds and most of them unexpected by Jim and I. Let’s get right into it.
Lakers vs Grizz: As anticipated the experience of the Lakers was too much for the young Grizz. Now the calls will start for Memphis to put more talent around Ja Morant, but there remains some responsibility on Ja to mature and not be a distraction for this young team. Anthony Davis was the best player on the Lakers, but with the trade deadline addition of D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Malik Beasley, Jarred Vanderbuilt and Mo Bamba the Lakers have a strong ensemble cast. Oh ya, and through this all, they also managed to jettison the dark cloud hanging over them for the past couple years. It’s name was Russell Westbrook.
Knicks vs Cavs: Not a huge upset, but still the far more talented Cavs are shown the door by the more experienced Knicks. All credit to Jalen Brunson for quarterbacking the team and giving them a sense of purpose and urgency. Won’t happen again so the Knicks better take advantage of this opportunity.
Heat vs Bucks: Obviously this is the massive upset. Before this series, only 3 times in NBA history has a number 8 seed beaten a 1 seed and with the Bucks dominating in the second half of the season no one expected this. In fact, in this column a few weeks ago, I believe Miami was characterized as a ‘speed bump’ in Milwaukee’s way. Expected to challenge for the East in the Conference Finals, Milwaukee lost Giannis early in the series and though he returned was not the same. On the Miami side, Jimmy Butler decided that was enough room for his team to slide through and away he went – 198 points, 30 rebounds, 24 assists, 9 steals and 2 blocks – Jimmy I hate to disagree, but there really is a playoff Jimmy.
2nd Round Predictions
Okay, time to look at the next round. I understand we’re a tad late out of the gate, so let’s get on with it.
Eastern Conference
Boston vs Philly: At the time of writing this, Philly is without Joel Embiid and surprisingly up 1-0 against the Celtics. But it won’t last. Boston is too strong even if Philly gets Joel back.
Miami vs New York: The Knicks got by the inexperienced Cavs but the Heat are going to be too much for them. Miami in 5 or 6.
Western Conference
Denver vs Phoenix: Denver was just so dominant all season it’s difficult to imagine them not getting to the finals at least but if any team can derail Jokic it’s Phoenix. Still, it’s not going to happen. Expect Denver to advance in 5 or 6.
Lakers vs Golden State: The defending champions were fortunate to get by the up and coming Sacramento squad and will now face a Laker team they have not been able to beat since the trade deadline when the Lakers suddenly became the ‘Super Lakers’ overnight. Don’t expect the Warriors to start now. The Lakers are new and improved and will win in 5 or 6.