2017 NBA Playoff Predictions: Breaking down each series

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Dec 14, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

Western Conference Finals

Finally, it’s come down to this in the Western Conference. Although Russell Westbrook has been the main story line from this season thanks to his historic output, the Jazz will look to silence that.

Unfortunately, I don’t see them being able to do that.

Also, Westbrook will likely go lights out and the reason is simple — more is at stake. Given that he played at such a high level during the course of the regular season, it’s hard to imagine that not intensifying at this point.

Because if he’s putting more effort into a non-playoff game versus the conference finals, there’s a problem.

Also, the Thunder won’t play the Warriors in the playoffs. Ironically, that’s only thanks to the Jazz. Oklahoma City will likely return the gratitude by sending them packing a series short of the NBA Finals.

Prediction: Thunder in five

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