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](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/685672812a8f31487a3ef39d48bdffb1e96124183ec8dba7e4cda076b767da84.jpg)
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