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2017 NBA Playoff Predictions: Breaking down each series

By Keith Rivas

Oct 17, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard JJ Redick (4) dribbles up the court during the first half against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Jazz won 104-78. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard JJ Redick (4) dribbles up the court during the first half against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Jazz won 104-78. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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March 10, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) reacts during the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
March 10, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) reacts during the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

Eastern Conference – First Round

(1) Boston vs. (8) Chicago

If the Celtics are the real deal, they’ll have no problem with the Bulls. On the other hand, if their stellar regular season doesn’t pan out to be on par with the Cavaliers overall, the Bulls could land themselves in the second round. All of this really depends on how well or how poorly Isaiah Thomas comes out and plays. Chicago has a lot of distractions to deal with, ranging from off-season rumors to front office drama, but that might not stop them from postseason success.

Prediction: Celtics win in five

(2) Cleveland vs. (7) Indiana

Hopefully LeBron James and company get hot again the playoffs. They’ll need to do just that in order to beat the Indiana Pacers. Paul George has seen it all this season thanks to the dysfunction of the team that echoes into his potential free agency choice. The Pacers need to stay focused on the here and now and winning this series gets them one step closer to keeping George away from other places.

Prediction: Cavs win in seven

(3) Toronto vs. (6) Milwaukee

Like the Clippers in the Western Conference, the Raptors have been that consistent team that can’t get it done in terms of a title. Granted, they’ve managed to actually make their conference finals — but that’s not enough for a ring and a banner. This year won’t be too different, and they’ll have a tough draw against the Bucks. If Giannis Antetokounmpo can get going, look for Milwaukee to send Canada’s team home early.

Prediction: Bucks in six

(4) Washington vs (5) Atlanta

This series may stand out the most out of any that are in the first round on this side of things. For the Wizards, it’s now or never for their combo of John Wall and Bradley Beal to get things done. Opposite them, the Hawks are hoping that things click for more than just the regular season. In similar fashion to Toronto, Atlanta has been on the cusp of winning big, but never cashed in. Due to Washington’s explosive edge, they should advance without too many problems.

Prediction: Wizards in five

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