Western Conference
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Both teams swept their respective series, and looked impressive in doing so. The Suns finally got rid of their demons with the Spurs, taking advantage of exceptional play from Steve Nash and using the pick and roll to perfection. Meanwhile, the Lakers' length and interior defense was too much for a banged-up Utah Jazz team. Both teams can put up a lot of points, and pace will be key in the series. The Suns thrive on transition baskets and if they can get out on the fast break, the older Lakers may have problems trying to keep up. Phoenix can also take advantage of an struggling L.A. bench, as Goran Dragic and Jared Dudley have outperformed Laker reserves Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown this postseason. However, in the end, the Lakers' superior height and defense should be able to stop the Suns' high power attack. Not to mention that a certain guy named Kobe is starting to heat up.
Lakers in 6
Eastern Conference
Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic
Orlando swept the helpless Hawks in round two, while Boston impressively took out LeBron's Cavaliers in 6 games. This series is a rematch of last year's 7-game Eastern Conference Semifinal, although the Celtics didn't have Kevin Garnett, and the Magic didn't have Jameer Nelson. Both teams are great defensive teams, and are very well coached. The point guard matchup should be sensational to watch, with Rajon Rondo and Nelson playing at the top of their games. Boston needs to focus on stopping Dwight Howard in the paint and needs Kendrick Perkins to play well. Another interesting matchup is Rashard Lewis against Kevin Garnett. While KG has the edge banging in the paint and on rebounds, Lewis' quickness and shooting range makes this a mismatch on both sides. In the end, it comes down to whether Boston can contain the pick-and-roll basketball of the Magic. While they were exceptional in stopping the Cavs, Orlando's offense is much more complex and harder to stop for the veterans of the Celtics.
Magic in 7
My Playoff Record: 8-4
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