NBA Perfect Ten Playoff Edition

The NBA Playoffs move into the second round of action with one game already in the books for two of the series. Let’s take a closer look at round 2.

Eastern Conference Semifinal Round

#8 Miami vs. #5 New York: The Heat took game one of the series with Julius Randle out with an ankle injury. It was an impressive performance from the Heat, who trailed by double-digits for much of the first half. This series will be long and grueling. In the end, I think the Knicks' depth will outlast a Heat team that has performed well above its talent. Butler’s ankle injury on Sunday will have to be monitored closely as well.

Prediction: Knicks in seven

Conference/NBA Title Odds: New York (+900, +3000)

#3 Philadelphia vs. #2 Boston: Recent reports of knee issues for Joel Embiid certainly casts doubt over the Sixers’ playoff chances here. Boston survived Atlanta despite suspect defense and some rotation issues. I think they match up much better against a Philadelphia team that just doesn’t have the kind of defenders that can bother Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown. Boston will play better in round 2.

Prediction: Boston in six.

Conference/NBA Title Odds: Boston (-245, +120)

Western Conference Semifinal Round

#4 Phoenix vs. #1 Denver: The Nuggets got off to a fast start after throttling Phoenix in game one. If Jamal Murray plays like he did in game one, they will be tough to beat. I expect Phoenix to have an answer in game two, primarily with the increased usage of Kevin Durant. Durant has been excellent but not dominant just yet. Still, in the end, the depth the Suns lack after making the move for Durant will cost them. Denver will prevail in a tight series.

Prediction: Nuggets in seven.

Conference/NBA Title Odds: Denver (+220, +700)

#7 LA Lakers vs. #6 Golden State: This is by far the most intriguing matchup of the second round. In the end, the weakness the Lakers’ showed at times to defend the Grizzlies’ guards will be their undoing. Steph Curry, Jordan Poole, and Klay Thompson will be a nightmare on the perimeter for the Lakers.

Prediction: Warriors in six.

Conference/NBA Title Odds: Golden State (+240, +600)

• In parenthesis, conference odds and finals odds. All odds Courtesy of Draftkings.com.

By Mark Ruelle