WESTERN CONFERENCE
Phoenix (2) vs. Dallas (4)
Phoenix returns to the conference finals for the second year in a row. The season series was split two games apiece, and this one figures to be just as competitive. I personally think the Suns are often overlooked, and just because they lack defense, doesn’t mean they can’t beat anyone on a given night. However, Nash’s stress fracture in his back is a source of concern, as is the possibility of him running out of gas. Kurt Thomas may be able to return for the series, but doesn’t figure to be a factor. The Jason Terry/Devin Harris guard combo should really make Nash work on the defensive end. Nash returning to Dallas makes it that much more exciting. Although this isn’t the same run and gun Mavs squad, scoring should be coming in bunches. Both teams feature the last two Coach of the Year winners, and it will be interesting to see their countering strategies. In the end, the Mavs are deeper, bigger and have better defenders. Last year, it was the Suns who knocked Dallas out of the playoffs. This year, look for the Mavs to return the favor.
Mavs 4-3
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Detroit (1) vs. Heat (2)
These two teams have been headed for this matchup all year long; it was inevitable. While the Pistons barely made it, the Heat was impressive by winning four games in a row over the Nets. Miami will be fully rested after not playing since last Tuesday. Last year, the Pistons won game seven in Miami, but that was with a hobbled Wade. This year, it’s the Pistons with homecourt advantage, but Wade is seemingly healthy. So is Shaq for that matter. Still, Detroit won the season series 3-1, and the one loss came with Wade playing absolutely flawless. Maybe Wade can do it for four games this series, but I doubt it. The Pistons had their wake up call against the Cavs and should be fully prepared. Bottom line is the Heat simply don’t matchup well with the Pistons, who will move onto the NBA Finals.
Pistons 4-2
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