Heard in the Cheap Seats

So, my brother and I had what we thought would be a brilliant idea–he posts his playoff predictions and then I post mine.  We rarely agree on much, so we figured it would be a good way to document who had the right prediction heading into the playoffs.  But low and behold, after giving Anthony first crack and posting his predictions, it turns out that we think more alike than we knew.  In fact, our picks are so similar that we are forecasting the same Finals series–Suns versus Pistons.  AND….you guessed it, the same winner–the Pistons.

And to echo what Anthony wrote, the current version of the NBA playoffs is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory.  While I hate both teams, how cool is it that the Lakers and Celtics sit atop each of their respective conferences?  For me, it harkens back the glory days of the NBA.  Adding more drama to the mix, the West is a hodge podge of teams with a chance to win.  It is parity at its greatest.  With the exception of the Nuggets, I honestly would not be surprised to see any team come out of the West.

Without further adieu, I will give you my version of Playoff Predictions, which is not much different than my brother’s.

Atlanta vs. Boston: Not much to say here more than was already stated–Celts in a sweep.  Sorry Josh Smith, you will not be “shocking the world.”

Philadelphia vs. Detroit: Again, the key points have been covered.  The Sixers are an up and coming team, but they are a couple of years a way from being able to compete with the Pistons of the world.  Detroit in 5.

Toronto vs. Orlando: I think this series will be a lot closer and more exciting than my brother thinks it will be, but in the end, the Magic win in 7.

Cleveland vs. Washington: Anthony stole a bit of my thunder here, so see below for a full explanation–Cleveland in 6.

Lakers vs. Denver: The Nuggets are a frustrating team.  If they could play an ounce of defense, they have the offensive firepower to beat any team.  Problem is, the rely solely on their offense and have thrown the concept of defense out the window entirely.  I do think the Nuggets will make this interesting, winning 2 games.  Lakers in 6.

Phoenix vs. San Antonio: Like my brother said, it is a shame this series is so early in the playoff.  My hunch?  Whoever wins this series comes out of the West.  This series provides one of the most interesting story lines of the playoffs.  The Suns acquired Shaq for one reason during the season–to match up with Tim Duncan.  To add to the drama, the Spurs bounced the Suns from the playoffs last year in a series that resembled a hockey game more than basketball.  The difference this year is that the Suns will not be pushed around.  With Shaq, they have the physical presence to match up with the Spurs.  Suns in 6.

Dallas vs. New Orleans: Here is where my brother and I part ways.  The Mavs are playing with a purpose and level of effort they have not been able to match all season long.   While the Mavs have been here before, the Hornets have not.  I think over the course of a long playoff-intensity series, Jason Kidd will physically wear down Chris Paul.  Mavs in 6.

Rockets vs. Jazz: The Jazz simply do not get bounced early in the playoffs.  Jazz in 5.

That takes us through the first round, now let’s see if it lives through the hype.