NBA Playoffs: First-Round Forecast
Sean Deveney - SportingNews.com
Apr 15, 2010
Eastern Conference
1. Cleveland vs. 8. Chicago. This should be a cakewalk, but the Cavs must establish a rotation on the fly. "I think Cleveland has to be really careful," TNT analyst Charles Barkley said. "They're bringing Shaq (O'Neal) back into the fray. You're trying to bring LeBron (James) back. You're also bringing Shaq back to playing with (Antawn) Jamison." Cavs in 4.
2. Orlando vs. 7. Charlotte. The Bobcats make their postseason debut, thanks in large part to their tough halfcourt defense. Problem is, the Magic excel at halfcourt offense, with center Dwight Howard and a slew of 3-point shooters. Magic in 5.
3. Atlanta vs. 6. Milwaukee. The loss of center Andrew Bogut to an elbow injury is devastating for Milwaukee's upset hopes. Look for the Hawks to control the paint. Hawks in 6.
4. Boston vs. 5. Miami. The Celtics don't mind if Dwyane Wade gets big numbers-but they will shut down his teammates and take the series. Celtics in 5.
Western Conference
1. L.A. Lakers vs. 8. Oklahoma City. Tough matchup for OKC. The Lakers have been here before, while the Thunder's key players are getting their first postseason taste. Lakers in 5.
2. Dallas vs. 7. San Antonio. This series will mark the third time in the last five postseasons that these in-state rivals have met. Ultimately, Dallas just has too much depth. Mavericks in 6.
3. Suns vs. 6. Blazers. An interesting contrast in styles, with Portland focused on slowing the tempo and limiting opponents 3-point tries. Phoenix, of course, prefers to push the pace and chuck 3s. Somethings gotta give, and chances are, itll be the Blazers. Phoenix in 6.
4. Nuggets vs. 5. Jazz. PF Kenyon Martin is back, but coach George Karl is still recovering from his battle with cancer. The Jazz have improved as a road team, but Denver is the toughest place to play in the West, Home court figures to loom large here. Nuggets in 7.
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