2017 NBA Playoff Predictions: Breaking down each series
By Keith Rivas
Eastern Conference – Second Round
(1) Boston vs. (4) Washington
Seeing the Celtics and Wizards at this stage of the playoffs is great for basketball. Two teams that have been trying to find their new identity are finally getting a chance to prove they’re legit.
And it comes against each other, of all situations.
Questioning whether or not the Wizards are the real deal comes down to this series. They proved they could turn the right gears when they needed to in the regular season, but will playoff experience be the difference?
On paper yes, but not in the win column. Although currently number one overall in the conference, the Celtics could be in serious danger of elimination against a team like Washington.
Prediction: Wizards in five
(2) Cleveland vs. (6) Milwaukee
While a seven game series against Indiana isn’t what they want, it’s what it’ll take for a date with the Bucks. Like Washington and Boston, Milwaukee has been another team where the pieces are starting to really come together.
Accordingly, size will be the Bucks’ greatest weapon against the Cavaliers. They’ll have played one less game than Cleveland if this prediction holds true, but ultimately the defending champs will pull through.
Expect plenty of a scare in the process, though.
Prediction: Cavs in seven