Western Conference
Lakers in 6 over Thunder: Durant and upstart Thunder put up fight, but Kobe and L.A.'s experience too much in the end.
Nuggets in 7 over Jazz: Billups vs. Williams is marquee matchup at point guard, but it will come down to Carmelo Anthony and whether Denver can contain Boozer in the paint.
Suns in 5 over Trailblazers: What an injury plagued year for the Blazers, with star guard Brandon Roy being the latest to fall. Suns should take advantage of outmanned Portland.
Mavericks in 6 over Spurs: Second straight year Texas-size showdown in first round of playoffs. Mavs look great ever since acquistion of Caron Butler at trade deadline from Washington. Spurs, my preseason pick to win West, have just looked old and at the end of their dynasty run
Eastern Conference
Cavaliers in 4 over Bulls: LeBron's first victim, a 41-win Chicago team that is playing for next season anyway.
Celtics in 7 over Heat: One year has passed and D-Wade still has no help in Miami. Celtics' depth and experience, despite their age, give them the slight edge over Miami.
Hawks in 6 over Bucks: Loss of Bogut for the playoffs is huge setback for Bucks. Atlanta's depth on interior with Horford, Pachulia and on bench with Jamal Crawford will put an end to great spectacular season for Milwaukee.
Magic in 6 over Bobcats: Not enough offensive firepower for the Bobcats, who also have a very bad road record. Dwight Howard and the Magic three-point shooters are just too much.
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