2014 NBA Playoffs - Eastern Conference Finals

#1 Indiana Pacers vs. #2 Miami Heat

The Indiana Pacers might have just completed the bumpiest road ever to a Conference Finals. The Pacers are a respectable 8-5 in the playoffs this year, but when they lose, they like to lose in spectacular fashion. But despite their late season struggles, they are right where they want to be, with homecourt advantage against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Heat have taken a much more comfortable road to the Conference Finals, losing just one playoff game so far. When these teams closed the regular season, the Heat basically decided to concede the #1 seed to Indiana, hedging their bets that it didn't matter whether or not they had homecourt advantage. Now, we get to find out if that was a smart move or complete arrogance by Miami.

This is a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference finals and these are two teams that know each other quite well. The single most important player in this series might just be Roy Hibbert of the Pacers. In last season's Conference Finals with Miami, Hibbert gave the Heat nightmares throughout that series and was the main reason the Pacers nearly knocked off the Heat. Hibbert has shown his importance to the Pacers even more this year. Some of the Pacers worst playoff performances have come when Hibbert has inexplicably disappeared. But when Hibbert has been on his game, the Pacers have looked like one of the better teams in the NBA. Chris Bosh was badly outplayed by Hibbert in last year's matchup, but he seems to be playing with far more confidence this season. He can't let Hibbert get too comfortable down low, but he also doesn't have the body to match up with Hibbert when Hibbert is in the zone. Another crucial component of the Pacers starting lineup is David West. West is the Pacers leader, and his clutch performance in Game 6 against the Washington Wizards helped propel Indiana to be able to close out that series. The Wizards had no one that could match up with West, but the Heat are hopeful that Shane Battier can stay on West and limit his offensive game. Paul George is the Pacers best player and his one on one matchup with LeBron James will once again take center stage in this series. George is important as the Pacers best player, but he isn't good enough to single-handedly will the Pacers to wins. They will need Hibbert, West, and especially Lance Stephenson to provide strong play for them to have a chance in this series. Stephenson is a wild player, and he seems to be off in his own world sometimes, but he is so valuable to the Pacers when he is playing well that coach Frank Vogel has no choice but to play him major minutes. Dwyane Wade isn't the player he once was but he still makes the Heat a more formidable team when he is on the court. His presence alone takes pressure off of James to feel like he has to do everything. Each team doesn't have exceptional point guards. The Pacers George Hill is solid but not spectacular, and Mario Chalmers of the Heat is mostly known for being James, Wade, and Bosh's whipping boy. But both players are capable of scoring and playing strong defense and any contributions they provide are a welcome addition.

The Pacers need more out of their bench in this series than they got against the Wizards. Luis Scola, Evan Turner, and Ian Mahinmi have to play much better in this series. Even C.J. Watson who was a complete non-factor against Washington, will be needed to spot Hill some in this series. Miami's best bench contributor is the ageless Ray Allen, and the energetic Chris Andersen. I wouldn't be surprised if you see Andersen and Bosh out on the floor at the same time quite a bit in this series. Andersen is the type of energy player that could really get into Hibbert's head and throw him off his game.

Predicting any series the Pacers are involved in this year seems fruitless. You just have no idea which Indiana team will show up from game to game. That level of inconsistency will be their downfall against Miami. Indian has the homecourt advantage but are just 3-4 at home in the playoffs this season and have been blown out multiple times. I expect Miami to take Game 1 on Sunday and control the series from there. The Pacers will have their moments in this series but it is clear that the Heat are the top dogs in the East and destined to make their fourth straight trip to the NBA Finals.

Prediction: Heat over Pacers, 4-2

2014 NBA Playoffs - Eastern Conference Semi-Finals

#1 Indiana Pacers vs. #5 Washington Wizards

The Pacers inexplicable free-fall at the end of the regular season carried over to what many thought would be an easy First Round series against the Atlanta Hawks. After being embarrassed at home in Game 5, the Pacers had to go to Atlanta to save their season. They were trailing late in Game 6, when David West put the team on his back, leading them to victory. Then at home in Game 7, the Pacers controlled the game and looked more like the dominant team they had been for the first half of the season. Now the question is, did that come from behind series win over Atlanta reignite the Pacers, or did they just luck out against an overmatched opponent? They will find out quickly when they take on the Wizards, the newest "it" team in the NBA. The Wizards took out the Chicago Bulls in five games and have many calling them a bigger threat to the Miami Heat than even the Pacers are.

The Wizards will have the edge for sure at point guard with John Wall going against Indiana's George Hill. Hill is serviceable, but the question is will he be able to keep up with the speed of Wall? The Pacers shooting guard Lance Stephenson is in a contract year and sometimes that shows as he attempts to play hero ball. Bradley Beal is mature beyond his years on the basketball court and quickly becoming one of the better shooters in the NBA. The Pacers will have the best player on the court, Paul George but George will be facing off with an excellent defender in the Wizards Trevor Ariza. The big man battle should be fascinating to watch as David West goes up against Nene and Roy Hibbert and Marcin Gortat face off. Nene has been key for the Wizards all season and he proved to be a matchup nightmare for Joakim Noah in the First Round. As mentioned above, West came up huge for the Pacers in their series with the Hawks. A lot was asked of West because of how miserable Hibbert was for most of that series. Hibbert did have his best game in Game 7 and Indiana has to hope that he has snapped out of whatever funk he has been in. If he isn't, Gortat could have a huge series. Gortat should be able to get Hibbert in foul trouble as Gortat is much more of a threat offensively than any big man Atlanta could throw against Hibbert.

The Wizards mostly employ Andre Miller, Trevor Booker, and Martell Webster off the bench, while veterans like Al Harrington and Drew Gooden could see spot duty. Ian Mahimi and C.J. Watson are employed by Pacers coach Frank Vogel, and Mahinmi outshone Hibbert in most of the First Round. Luis Scola fell out of the rotation the last two games of the series against the Hawks, but with the Wizards throwing a lot of players out there, I expect him to see some more time. Evan Turner has seen his minutes reduced drastically as that trade the Pacers made earlier in the season looks worse and worse.

I certainly underestimated the Wizards in the First Round but don't plan on making that mistake this time around. I still think the Pacers are a mess and got lucky that they played such an atrocious team in the Hawks. The Wizards have much more talent than Atlanta, and unless Indiana gets back to early season form, they are going to have their hands full with Washington. I believe the Wizards will make the Conference Finals for the first time in 36 years. I believe the edge they have at point guard with Wall and what Gortat should be able to do to Hibbert will carry Washington past Indiana.

Prediction: Wizards over Pacers, 4-2


#2 Miami Heat vs. #6 Brooklyn Nets

The Heat wrapped up their series against Charlotte in four games, which feels like weeks ago. The Nets grinded out a seven game series victory over the Toronto Raptors. Once again, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce will get a chance to try to take out LeBron and the Heat. The Nets beat the Heat in all four regular season meetings this year, so that does give them some added confidence coming into this series.

The Nets have the advantage at point guard with Deron Williams being superior to the Heat's whipping boy Mario Chalmers. Even at 60% or whatever he is these days, Dwyane Wade is superior to the much traveled Shaun Livingston. Joe Johnson played excellently for the Nets in their Game 7 win over Toronto, and is becoming the Nets go to scorer and ball handler late in games. But the focus for him will have to be on the defensive side of the ball as he attempts to not let LeBron James go crazy. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett are far removed from their prime and play far less minutes than they used to, but their playoff experience has proven invaluable so far. Shane Battier is out there for the Heat to play solid defense and hit the occasional three pointer. Chris Bosh should be able to outmuscle and outhustle Garnett but might have some problems facing Andray Blatche when he comes off the bench,

Jason Kidd likes to employ his bench as much as possible, meaning you should expect to see guys like Mason Plumlee, Alan Anderson, Mirza Teletovic, Marcus Thornton, and even Andrei Kirilenko could see some time. For Miami, regulars off the bench include the ageless Ray Allen, the high energy Chris Andersen, Norris Cole and James Jones has somehow found his way back in the rotation.

I wouldn't read too much into Brooklyn sweeping Miami during the regular season, that will be thrown out the window once these two tip off tomorrow night. The Heat become a different, more focused team on the playoffs and if anything, those regular season losses will ensure that the Heat are ready to play the Nets. I think the Nets can defeat the Heat once or twice, but overall, don't have the skill to beat the Heat 4 times in a series.

Prediction: Heat over Nets, 4-2

2014 NBA Playoffs - Western Conference Semi-Finals

#1 San Antonio Spurs vs. #5 Portland Trail Blazers

The Spurs were given everything they could handle by the Dallas Mavericks in the First Round, before eventually prevailing in seven games. The Trail Blazers won their first playoff series in 14 years in dramatic fashion on Friday night. Damian Lillard hit a three pointer at the buzzer to give Portland the victory over the Houston Rockets.

The point guard battle will be dynamic in this series between the Spurs Tony Parker and the Blazers Lillard. Lillard showed no signs of being overwhelmed by the playoff stage in the First Round and he will give Parker a ton of trouble when it comes to attempting to guard him. The other huge one-on-one battle will be Tim Duncan going against LaMarcus Aldridge. Duncan still plays at an extremely high level but Aldridge looks like a young Duncan with how he played against the Rockets. The Blazers have the size to match up with not only Duncan but Robin Lopez may have the advantage over Tiago Splitter. Nicolas Batum can also be a dynamic scorer for the Blazers but he will draw Kawhi Leonard, one of the better defenders in the league. Wesley Matthews of the Blazers and Danny Green of the Spurs are the shooting guards and both can fall in love with the three pointer.

The Blazers mostly employed a 7 man rotation against the Rockets, with Thomas Robinson and veteran Mo Williams getting the most action off the bench. Boris Diaw, Manu Ginobli, and Patty Mills ensure that the Spurs don't feel a major letdown when they have to go to their bench. The Blazers have the point guard, big man combo that could have them as legitimate title contenders for the foreseeable future. I expect them to give the Spurs plenty of trouble in this series, especially if Duncan cannot slow down Aldridge. In the end, I believe the Spurs experience will be the difference, as will home court when this series goes seven games.

Prediction: Spurs over Blazers, 4-2


#2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. #3 Los Angeles Clippers

Both the Thunder and Clippers were involved in exhausting seven game series in the First Round. The Thunder overcame a 3-2 series deficit, when Kevin Durant responded to being called out by his hometown newspaper as unreliable. The Thunder also benefited from the Memphis Grizzlies being without their best player Zach Randolph for game 7, as he had to serve a suspension. The Clippers/Golden State Warriors series took a backseat to the audio tapes that came out of their owner Donald Sterling espousing his racist views. The team was able to overcome the distraction and behind coach Doc Rivers have seemed to become even closer as a team.

Both of these teams average well over 100 points and aren't exactly known for their defense, so fans of offensive basketball will be in heaven. There is also plenty of star power in this series. Chris Paul of the Clippers and Russell Westbrook of the Thunder are two of the premiere point guards in the NBA. Paul is the more typical point guard, looking to feed the ball to Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. Westbrook runs into criticism because he looks to shoot, despite having the second best player in the game on his team in Kevin Durant. Westbrook is an exceptional offensive talent though so it is understandable why he looks for his own shot. The Thunder's Caron Butler is still playing heavy minutes despite being older as coach Scott Brooks relies on his experience. J.J. Redick is in there to make threes and that is about it. However, that one aspect of his game is something he does better than almost anyone else. Serge Ibaka will be tasked with attempting to slow down Blake Griffin. Ibaka likely doesn't have the offensive skillset to get Griffin into foul trouble but he could upset Griffin's offensive game through his sheer defensive skill alone. Kendrick Perkins still starts for the Thunder but his backup Steven Adams saw more time than Perkins in Games 6 and 7 of the Memphis series and that trend could continue with the Thunder needing some youth to keep up with the Clippers DeAndre Jordan. Durant played great at the end of the Thunder's first round series but prior to that he was having a hard time with the Grizzlies Tony Allen. In this series he will have to contend with Matt Barnes. Barnes is a strong defender like Allen and also an instigator and could throw Durant off his mental game.

Derek Fisher and Reggie Jackson see plenty of time off the bench. Fisher's shot isn't as reliable as it used to be, but he still makes enough three pointers that you can't ignore him when he is on the court. Jackson has really grown as a player this season and it was his play and ability to hit big shots that saved the Thunder's season with a Game 4 win in Memphis. The Clippers bench is highlighted by 6th Man of the Year Jamal Crawford, as well as reliable backup point guard Darren Collison. Danny Granger and Glen Davis will also see time off the bench but their minutes have become pretty minimal.

This series will basically come down to which team plays just enough defense to slow down the other teams proficient offense. I think the biggest matchups in this series will be how tight Barnes plays Durant and also if Adams is able to not let Jordan completely overwhelm him and abuse him. I think the Clippers have just enough of an edge in athleticism and more offensive weapons than the Thunder and that will be what keys them to the slight upset.

Prediction: Clippers over Thunder, 4-3

2014 NBA Playoffs - Western Conference, First Round

#1 San Antonio Spurs (62-20) vs. #8 Dallas Mavericks (49-33)

It almost seems like Tony Parker, Manu Ginobli, Tim Duncan, and Gregg Popovich could win 50 or 60 plus games for the next 20 years. The Spurs strung together 19 straight wins at one point this year and comfortably finished at the top of the Western Conference. In addition to Parker, Ginobli and Duncan, three other Spurs average double figure scoring. Kawhi Leonard, Marco Belinelli, and Patty Mills. Danny Green and Boris Diaw are just a point shy of averaging double figures, and Thiago Splitter isn't too far behind them. The Spurs have tons of options offensively and have a host of contributors both starting and coming off the bench. The Spurs excel on offense, ranking 6th in the NBA and also on defense, as they were the 6th best scoring defense in the league this season.

After a one year absence Dallas is back in the playoffs, and will be looking to win their first playoff game since winning the NBA Championship in 2011. The offense still revolves around the excellent shooting of Dirk Nowitzki but the addition of shooting guard Monta Ellis has taken some of the scoring load off of Dirk. Jose Calderon and Devin Harris give the Mavs a solid 1-2 punch at point guard, same for the small forward position where Vince Carter spells Shawn Marion. Samuel Dalembert has been a strong presence in the middle, leading the Mavericks in rebounds and blocks. Off the bench, former Spur DaJuan Blair and Brandan Wright gives the Mavericks even more size and length. Jae Crowder is another player that Rick Carlisle can insert into games to get some of his aging vets a breather and reliably count on.

I think this has the potential to be a highly entertaining series. Both teams can score the ball but where the Spurs have the major advantage is their superiority to the Mavericks on defense. That will be the difference in the series, but I do expect the Mavs to steal a couple games and make San Antonio sweat.

Prediction: Spurs over Mavericks, 4-2


#4 Houston Rockets (54-28) vs. #5 Portland Trail Blazers (54-28)          

James Harden and Dwight Howard get all the headlines, and rightly so, but you could argue that Houston actually has a big three with the outstanding season former Florida Gator Chandler Parsons had this year. Parsons averaged the second most minutes per game on the team and was third in scoring, averaging 16.6 points per game. Point guard has been a bit of a revolving door position as both Patrick Beverly and Jeremy Lin have battled nagging injuries. Terrence Jones has turned into a reliable scorer and starter, and is getting a lot more open looks with the presence of Howard to go with Harden. Off the bench the Rockets best players are Omer Asik, who I guess they made happy after he wanted to be traded when they brought in Dwight, and Francisco Garcia, who it feels like has been around forever.

The Trail Blazers had a major bounce back year this season, thanks mostly to the fact that their starters avoided injuries for most of the season. Damian Lillard, Wesley Matthews, Nicolas Batum, and Robin Lopez each started all 82 games this season. That means the Blazers have a team that is used to playing with one another. The other starter, LaMarcus Aldridge missed just 13 games, which for him and his injury history, is a huge accomplishment. Veteran Mo Williams sees a lot of time off the bench, as does Dorell Wright. Thomas Robinson also comes off the bench and while it doesn't appear he will ever live up to his draft status, he does give the Blazers a solid 10-15 minutes a night.

Neither team is very good defensively so expect to see a lot of high scoring games in this series. I believe that Howard and Harden are better than player that the Blazers can throw at them. I know that Aldridge and Lillard are very good, but they will be outmatched in this series and the Rockets will move on to the Second Round.


Prediction: Rockets over Trail Blazers, 4-2

#2 Oklahoma City Thunder (59-23) vs. #7 Memphis Grizzlies (50-32)

Kevin Durant was spectacular this season and should be earning his first even MVP award. He averaged 32 points per game this year, and helped keep the Thunder rolling while Russell Westbrook dealt with injuries and missed half the season. Westbrook is healthy now and hopeful to get through the playoffs healthy, which he was unable to do last season and it ultimately cost the Thunder. Revenge will be on Oklahoma City's mind as they were dominated in the playoffs last year by these same Grizzlies. Serge Ibaka was the Thunder's second most reliable player, leading the team in rebounding and averaging an impressive 2.7 blocks per game. If you try to drive on the Thunder you most likely will be getting swatted by Ibaka. Reggie Jackson has been solid at point guard, learning from veteran Derek Fisher who can still come off the bench and hit big shots. The shooting guard position has been in a state of flux since Thabo Sefalosha went down with an injury in early March. Sefalosha is back but Scott Brooks has tried to limit his minutes. Caron Butler has been a solid veteran addition, and has been lethal from three points range when he has played. Kendrick Perkins only plays about half the game now, but the Thunder still rely on his rebounding presence to give them an edge on the boards.

The Grizzlies are built similarly to the Chicago Bulls. They are a below average offensive team but play some of the best defense you will see in the NBA. After a slow start to the season the Grizzlies caught fire and still managed to reel off a 50 win season. Their big three is Zach Randolph, Mike Conley, and Marc Gasol. Courtney Lee has been solid for the Grizzlies at shooting guard, and Tayshaun Prince has been a steadying veteran influence for this team. Kosta Koufos, Mike Miller, and Nick Calathes see the most time off the bench for Memphis. I think the biggest surprise of the season for Mempis has been how reliable the aging Miller was. Miller played in all 82 games this season, hitting almost 46% from three point land.

Last season the Grizzlies caught the Thunder short handed but this year they should receive the Thunder's best shot. Because of that and also because the Thunder has Durant who has played at another level all season, I believe Oklahoma City will be able to score on the Grizzlies tough defense and the Grizzlies won't be able to put up the offense to keep up.

Prediction: Thunder over Grizzlies, 4-2


#3 Los Angeles Clippers (57-25) vs. #6 Golden State Warriors (51-31)

The consensus seems to be that this is the most anticipated First Round series of this year's playoffs. Both teams play a fast-paced, exciting brand of basketball. Both teams are actually better on defense than they are given credit for. Adding to the intrigue is that these teams don't like one another. In past games, there have been multiple skirmishes and Klay Thompson already started the trash talking this week when he called Blake Griffin a flopper. The Clippers led the league in scoring this year behind Griffin, while Chris Paul continues to be a dual threat point guard that can score and then make you pay when you focus on him by finding the open man. Darren Collison has fit in nicely as Paul's backup and someone that can keep the offense flowing and allow Paul some breathers. Shooting guard has been a revolving door position for LA as J.J. Redick has battled injuries. However, Redick should be ready to go for the playoffs and if he is able to find open looks, he is always dangerous. Matt Barnes and DeAndre Jordan are the toughness that goes with the finesse of some of the other Clippers players. Jordan has really had a breakout season, averaging almost 14 rebounds per game and getting double-doubles on the regular. Danny Granger was picked up during the season and is expected to be ready for the playoffs, although his level of contribution remains a question mark. Other vets that see time off the bench include Glen Davis and Hedo Turkoglu.

The Warriors have had a season of trials and tribulations this year, with assistants coming and going and coach Mark Jackson's job status being called into question often. Despite that, they still won 51 games. The newest challenge for them going into the playoffs is the injury to Andrew Bogut. With Bogut out the Warriors will have to trot out Jermaine O'Neal's corpse more than they would like in this series. He has no prayer of being able to match the athleticism of Jordan or Griffin. The Warriors will still have a chance though because of Steph Curry. Curry is an incredible player, never afraid to shoot and able to score all around the court. He is also good at being unselfish and getting his teammates involved and is strong defensively, averaging almost 2 steals per game. Thompson is the Warriors other sharpshooter and as made evident in the playoffs last season, if both those guys are on fire, the Warriors are almost unbeatable. Andre Iguodala and Draymond Green don't add a ton on offense but they are part of the reason the Warriors have improved defensively this season. Off the bench, Harrison Barnes, Jordan Crawford, and Steve Blake give the Warriors a trio of guys that can be trusted with the ball and can spell starters at critical times.

With Bogut I might lean for the Warriors upset, but his absence is going to be glaring and will likely mean monster series for Griffin and Jordan. Watching Chris Paul and Steph Curry do battle will be tons of fun to watch, and also seeing if these teams get into it at all and hearken back to playoff basketball from the 80s and 90s. I expect the series to go seven games, and the Clippers to finish the Warriors off at the Staples Center.

Prediction: Clippers over Warriors, 4-3        

2014 NBA Playoffs - Eastern Conference, First Round

#1 Indiana Pacers (56-26) vs. #8 Atlanta Hawks (38-44)

The Pacers started off the year hot, and then fizzled down the stretch, but still managed to hold off the Miami Heat for the number one seed in the East. Their leader is Paul George, and the team's dip in play has coincided with George's own struggles. The Pacers aren't an exceptional offensive team, but they make up for it with their defensive toughness led by David West and Roy Hibbert. Hibbert has come under some fire recently as his offensive performances have been dreadful and his toughness has been questioned. Somehow Lance Stephenson is the team's leading rebounder over the monstrous Hibbert. George Hill is solid but not spectacular at point guard, and off the bench the Pacers have Luis Scola, Evan Turner, C.J. Watson and Ian Mahinmi to spell their starters.

The Hawks squeak into the playoffs with a horrible record, and have changed from the perfectly average team to the just slightly above bad team. The Hawks are the only team in the Eastern Conference to allow over 100 points per game and make the playoffs. It is slightly commendable that they still managed to make the playoffs despite being without their best play Al Horford for the majority of the season. Also, when you look at a starting lineup that consists of Jeff Teague, Kyle Korver, Paul Milsap, Cartier Martine, and Pero Antic you realize just how terrible the New York Knicks were that they couldn't make the playoffs over this team. Shelvin Mack, formerly of Butler, and Elton Brand, formerly a player of consequence in the NBA are the Hawks main bench contributors.

The Pacers should use this series as a chance to gain back some of the confidence they may have lost over the past month. The Hawks might be able to steal a game in Atlanta, but otherwise this series should be smooth sailing for the Pacers.

Prediction: Pacers over Hawks, 4-1


#4 Chicago Bulls (48-34) vs. #5 Washington Wizards (44-38)

This is a matchup I would prefer was not happening as I like both teams. The Bulls once again overcame an injury to Derrick Rose, traded away Luol Deng and still managed to win 48 games. Tom Thibodeau is clearly one of the best coaches in the league. The Bulls have a ton of trouble scoring, but win games because they never take plays off and play suffocating defense. Their leading scorer si a guy that doesn't even start for them, D.J. Augustin. However, the biggest reason for the Bulls success this season has been the play of Joakim Noah. Noah led the team in rebounds, assists, and blocks, and averaged a double-double this year. The Bulls are likely parting ways with Carlos Boozer and his massive contract this off-season but for now they will hope that he can string together some good offensive showings to make up for his lack of defense. Jimmy Butler epitomizes the Bulls will as a team and their toughness on defense. Kirk Hinrich provides veteran leadership and steady play at the point guard position. Mike Dunleavy can be dangerous when his shot is hitting, especially from three point land. Taj Gibson isn't always consistent but he is another large component of the Bulls toughness on the defensive end.

The Wizards are back in the playoffs for the first time in six seasons, and their faith in John Wall is starting to be rewarded. Wall led the Wizards in scoring, steals and assists. He continues to improve his outside shooting, and he was reliable, playing in all 82 games this season. Another reason for Washington's return to the playoffs is the play of big men Marcin Gortat and Nene. Gortat played in 81 games this year, and almost averaged a double-double. Nene is injury prone as always but with him healthy going into the playoffs he will provide Washington a huge lift both offensively and defensively. Bradley Beal continues to look like a future franchise player, and Trevor Ariza looks a lot like the Ariza that helped the Los Angeles Lakers to a title in 2009. The Wizards also have a lot of veterans at their disposal off the bench, including Andre Miller, Al Harrington, and Drew Gooden.

I don't like this matchup for the Wizards. While the Bulls can be beat because of their trouble scoring, I believe their defense is going to frustrate some of the Wizards younger players and give someone like Wall fits. I also think that Thibodeau will outcoach Randy Wittman and that edge will be the difference in the close games that I expect to see in this series.

Prediction: Bulls over Wizards, 4-2


#2 Miami Heat (54-28) vs. #7 Charlotte Bobcats (43-39)

The Heat have struggled down the stretch but haven't exactly been trying to win. They decided to rest LeBron James and Chris Bosh for the last few games and basically conceded the one seed to the Pacers. Dwyane Wade did play in the last few games but has been dealing with injuries all season long and is definitely on the tail end of his career. The Heat are looking for the three-peat and whether they get it or not chances are this is the last season of the Big Three of James, Bosh, and Wade. The story is the same for the Heat as it has always been, teams kill them on the glass but they win with their defensive intensity and the fact that they have the best player on the planet in James. Ray Allen continues to defy aging and can still hit a clutch three when you need it. The Birdman, Chris Andersen provides a ton of energy off the bench, and other big men that might see some time are Greg Oden's corpse and the formerly highly touted Michael Beasley.

Michael Jordan was crushed by the media when the Bobcats were the laughing stock of the league, but strangely hasn't received much credit for the Bobcats resurgence this season. Charlotte is one of the better defensive teams in the league and has a nice nucleus of young talent. The addition of Al Jefferson has made a huge difference, and Jefferson is having one of the best seasons of his career. Kemba Walker and Gerald Henderson give the Bobcats a nice scoring punch in the backcourt, while forward Josh McRoberts and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist are solid. Off the bench, Cody Zeller has had a promising rookie year and Bismack Biyombo led the Bobcats in blocks this season. Gary Neal is another strong player off the bench and he had a good series against Miami last year in the Finals as a member of the Spurs.

Charlotte comes into the playoffs playing their best basketball of the year but I expect the Heat to quickly regain their dominant form. I think Charlotte has the players to be competitive with Miami, but not the experience to ever make the Heat feel any real danger. I think Charlotte can steal a game at home but otherwise, it will be smooth sailing for Miami.

Prediction: Heat over Bobcats, 4-1


#3 Toronto Raptors (48-34) vs. #6 Brooklyn Nets (44-38)

The Raptors are one of the bigger surprise stories of the season. Not that anyone really gives a crap about divisions in the NBA but the Raptors did win the Atlantic division. Despite this achievement, the rumor is that the Nets basically tanked their final two games so they would face the Raptors in the First Round. The Raptors don't have a ton of sizzle or household players but they play very well together as a team. DeMar DeRozan is Toronto's leading scorer, and Kyle Lowry is one of the bestter point guards in the league that you probably haven't heard of. Center Jonas Valanciunas is a force on the defensive end and glass and also scored in double figures this season. PF Amir Johnson was the team leader in blocks. Depth is not Toronto's strong suit but Grievis Vasquez brings a ton of energy and can light up the scoreboard when he comes off the bench. The Raptors pulled off a lot of trades this year and after a slow start and specifically when they shipped off Rudy Gay they seemed to find themselves as a team.

Brooklyn came into the season with a ton of expectations after trading for Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, but then got off to a dreadful start. Seems seemed even bleaker when they lost Brooke Lopez for the season, but after the All-Star break the Nets righted the ship. The Nets are a team with balanced scoring as Joe Johnson led the team with just 15 points per game. Garnett is no longer the scorer he once was but he can still grab rebounds with the best of them. Pierce picks and chooses his spots but is a far cry from the electrifying player he once was. PG Deron Williams has taken a ton of criticism in recent years and injuries have curtailed his game but he can still find the open man as good as anyone in the game. Mason Plumlee has been a real bright spot for Brooklyn this year and played very well coming off the bench. Andray Blatche has also seemed to find a home in Brooklyn, providing the Nets with reliable scoring off the bench.

I don't think the Raptors are going to take too kindly to the Nets basically tanking to set up a matchup with them. While Brooklyn did play much better basketball in the second half of the season, I still am not sold that they have the cohesiveness as a team to make a run in the playoffs. Just because the Raptors don't have a lot of big name players doesn't mean they aren't a strong team. I expect DeRozan to have a huge series and the Raptors to come out on top in a hard fought seven game series.

Prediction: Raptors over Nets, 4-3

NCAA Basketball Championship Game - Arlington, Texas

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#8 Kentucky (29-10) vs. #7 Connecticut (31-8)

I'd like to meet the person that picked this as the Championship game three weeks ago and shake their hand. Problem is, I am not sure that person would exist. As 7 and 8 seeds, this is the highest ever combined seeding in a Championship game. Kentucky wasn't even ranked in the AP poll when the Tournament began, while Connecticut was only as high as 18 in the AP top 25.

After a slow start and it looking like they were going to be blown out by the Gators, UCONN quickly struck back and then dominated Florida. DeAndre Daniels had a monster game and UCONN's guards dominated Florida's guards, not allowing Scott Wilbekin to get anything going offensively.

Kentucky once again took part in an instant classic, and once again won on a three point shot by Aaron Harrison, this time against Wisconsin. Another familiar formula Kentucky followed was getting behind early but then finding a way to claw back into the game.

The key for the Huskies to be able to knock off Kentucky will be once again having other plays step up on offense to complement Shabazz Napier. Daniels was that guy on Saturday, as was Niels Giffey. Fellow guard Ryan Boatright was his usual excellent self defensively but also added some scoring punch. The Huskies defense will also be tested by a Wildcats team with a lot of size and a lot of players with the ability to score. The Huskies bench contributed just 6 points in the win on Saturday, so the pressure will be on their starters to perform well throughout the game.

Julius Randle had just 5 rebounds on Saturday night but put up 16 points and could be in line for a dominant performance tonight. James Young has not received the accolades and attention that Randle and the Harrison twins have, but he has been outstanding in the NCAA Tournament. It seems like each game he is good for a couple of clutch three pointers and he led the Wildcats in scoring on Saturday. Andrew and his brother Aaron have both struggled with their shot the last couple of games, but Aaron has been easily forgiven because of the timing of when he has been able to hit shots. They will have a tremendous size advantage on Napier and Boatright tonight, and should look to drive the lane and make their lives a little easier. They are both excellent when they drive and then dish it to the big men they have like Randle, Alex Poythress and Marcus Lee.

I think it is impossible to pick against the Cardiac Cats right now. Game after game, these freshman have played amazing basketball under pressure and in tense moments. The stage won't be too big for them. Connecticut's defense will keep the Huskies in the game but the Wildcats have so many options for scoring that I don't think UCONN will be able to slow them down enough. The size advantage the Harrisons have over Napier and Boatright will become a huge factor on both sides of the ball. I don't expect Aaron to have to hit a game winning shot this time. I think Kentucky will allow its fans a chance to breathe tonight and enjoy a win. Calipari will bring Kentucky what it believes is its college basketball right, a national championship and their second in three seasons.

Prediction: Kentucky 67, Connecticut 59

2014 Final Four - Arlington, Texas

#7 Connecticut (30-8) vs. #1 Florida (36-2)  

Huskies coach Kevin Ollie has Connecticut back in the Final Four. I was curious to see how the Huskies program would fate when longtime coach and resuscitator of the program Jim Calhoun retired. After being banned from postseason play last year, Ollie has quickly proven that the Connecticut program should continue its success. The Huskies pulled off back to back upsets in Madison Square Garden last weekend, knocking off #3 seed Iowa State and #4 seed Michigan State. Their run is drawing parallels to their last championship and Final Four run in 2011. That year, it was Kemba Walker who put the Huskies on his back, and this year it has been Shabazz Napier.

Napier does so much for Connecticut on both the offensive and defensive ends. He will occasionally get some support from DeAndre Daniels, but often times, the Huskies are completely reliant on him offensively. In addition to scoring Napier is able to often fly past opponents big men and come down with rebounds. Napier is a pretty good defensive player, but the Huskies defensive leader is Ryan Boatwright. Boatwright was a menace to the Michigan State players, recording four steals. G-F Niels Giffey is a guy you don't often hear his name called but sometimes that can be a good thing because it also means he isn't doing much wrong while on the court. Center Phillip Nolan basically leaves the Huskies at a 4 on 5 disadvantage offensively and usually splits time with fellow big man Amida Brimah. UCONN doesn't have a ton of depth though and that could be their undoing this weekend.

The Florida Gators are on an absolute tear. They have won 30 games in a row and coincidentally enough their last loss this season came at Connecticut on December 2. When you look back at the stats from that game, it seems like it was mostly a fluky loss. Florida shot almost 50% and outrebounded the Huskies. They were going to win the game before Shabazz Napier hit a shot as time expired. Some would argue that Florida has had an easy road to the Final Four, but they did defeat UCLA in the Sweet 16 and the bruins were one of the hottest teams in the country. They might have caught a break by drawing #11 seed Dayton in the Elite 8 but Dayton had beaten some strong teams along the way including Ohio State and Syracuse.

Guard Scottie Wilbekin is on an absolute tear right now, and him and Napier could wind up in a scoring battle on Saturday. Patric Young is the Gators force in the middle and unlike UCONN's bigs he can be relied upon offensively. F Casey Prather was the Gators leading scorer in the teams first meeting, but in the Gators last three games he hasn't really looked for his shot much. Michael Frazier II is another dangerous guard for the Gators and someone who doesn't turn the ball over. F Will Yeguete, along with Young helps give the Gators their defensive dominance and off the bench Dorian Finney-Smith is a guy that can step up offensively with needed and is another tough defender.

This game really comes down to how well Napier plays and if Daniels or some other player on the Huskies can adequately complement him. In my opinion, Billy Donovan should focus his team's defensive attention entirely on Napier and let anyone else on Connecticut try to beat them. Florida is too good of a team to lose to Connecticut twice and I expect the Gators to never really pull away from UCONN but also never truly be in danger, as they return to the championship game for the first time since 2007.

Prediction: Florida 64, Connecticut 57


#8 Kentucky (28-10) vs. #2 Wisconsin (30-7) 

It seems the fabulous freshman of Kentucky just needed the pressure removed for them to live up to the hype bestowed upon them prior to the season. The Wildcats have been tremendous in this tournament and their last three wins have all been instant classic victories. Last weekend they came back from early deficits against both Louisville and Michigan, hitting big shots at the end of those games to win. It was Aaron Harrison's three pointer late that sealed the game for Kentucky and put them in their third Final Four in four years.

Aaron and his twin brother Andrew have really upped their play in the tournament run. Andrew did struggle against Michigan but like a good twin, Aaron was there to pick him up. F Julius Randle is an absolute beast and is going to be tremendous on the next level. He averaged a double double this season and that has carried over to the tournament, where he has recorded double doubles in all four games. Dakari Johnson is another big man for the Wildcats and he was a big reason for their win over Louisville. James Young has been scoring under his average but part of that is because of the other Wildcats stepping up their game. Young has hit some huge three pointers during Kentucky's run to the Final Four. Willie Cauley-Stein injured himself against Louisville and is doubtful for the Final Four. Someone who came up huge for Kentucky in his absence against Michigan was Marcus Lee. Any boost Lee can provide for Kentucky off the bench will be huge in their efforts of trying to beat Wisconsin.

The Badgers are back in the Final Four for the first time since 2000 and for the first time under coach Bo Ryan. They destroyed Baylor in the Sweet 16 and then outlasted the top seeded Arizona Wildcats. Frank Kaminsky basically single handedly led the Badgers to victory, scoring 28 of the Badgers 64 points. Kaminsky's big game was even more important because Traevon Jackson struggled mightily shooting from the field against Arizona, hitting just 4 of 14 shots. His fellow guard Ben Brust also had a rough game but is typically one of the most consistent players the Badgers have on the offensive end. Ever since helping lead the Badgers back against Oregon, Josh Gasser has mostly been a non-factor offensively, but is solid on the glass. Freshman Bronson Koenig and Nigel Hayes are the main options off the bench for Wisconsin.

With the run Kentucky is currently on and the absurd amount of talent they have, it is impossible for me to pick against them right now. The Badgers best hope is that their defense can frustrate the Wildcats young players, and guys like Jackson and Kaminsky have big games. Kaminsky will have to be hitting his shots from the outside, because athletically, he can't play against a guy like Randle. I don't feel like the Badgers have the firepower to take down Kentucky, and coach John Calipari will have the Wildcats in their second championship game in three seasons.

Prediction: Kentucky 72, Wisconsin 65