NBA Playoffs Continue

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Stephen Young

The first round of the NBA Playoffs was filled with excitement as it contained intense rivalries, trash talk, close games, and dramatic buzzer beaters. Teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics proved that they are playoff ready and determined to win. On the other hand, the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets showed weaknesses as their opponents took them deep into the series. After an intense, action packed first round, the Conference Semifinals are expected to be even more exciting. Here are the outcomes we can expect to see in the second round of the NBA Playoffs.

Western Conference

Warriors vs. Rockets – Warriors in 6

Although the Warriors showed signs of weakness in the first round being taken to game six by the Clippers, Kevin Durant has been unstoppable. It’s no secret that the Warriors have an offense that is nearly impossible to stop, and the Rockets simply can’t outscore them.

Nuggets vs. Trail Blazers – Nuggets in 7

Both the Nuggets and the Blazers displayed great basketball in the first round. Damian Lillard was on fire and the Nuggets played great team basketball. It will be a hard-fought series between two well-rounded teams on both sides of the ball. Lillard will give the Nuggets a run for their money, but Nikola Jokić will dominate the inside of the Blazers defense.

Eastern Conference

Bucks vs. Celtics – Bucks in 6

In an impressive first round for both teams, the anticipation for this matchup is through the roof. Both the Bucks and the Celtics had a first round sweep, showing the Eastern Conference how dangerous they are. Giannis Antetokounmpo had a great first four playoff games, dominating in the paint and on defense. The Celtics showed great team basketball as they swept an easy first round matchup of the Pacers. Although both the Celtics and the Bucks are strong teams on both sides of the ball, the firepower of MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo is too much for the Celtics to handle.

Raptors vs. 76ers – 76ers in 7

The Raptors and Sixers both got out of the first round in just five games, giving themselves a long time for rest and preparation for the Conference Semifinals. The young Sixers team lacks experience but contain an offensive firepower the Raptors can’t contain. Despite the defensive ability of Kawhi Leonard, the Raptors lack a big man who can stop the dominance of Joel Embiid.