Conference Semifinal Predictions

Here are my predictions for the Confernce Semifinals. I was 5-3 with my before-series picks in round 1, and 6-2 with my mid series picks.

Eastern Conference

#1 Chicago vs #5 Atlanta

Even though they beat Orlando in round 1, the Hawks were probably the least impressive out of the 8 teams remaining, but they are in the second round for the 3rd straight year, one of 3 teams that can say that (LAL, BOS). However, it is important to note that they have been swept in this round each of the last two seasons. They looked great against the Magic at times, but they weren't consistent with that great play, which is how they have always been. I don't think they are capable of being great for an entire game. The Hinrich injury is huge because he is their best shot at slowing down Derrick Rose, and now Jeff Teague is going to have to see important minutes in this series.

Prediction: Bulls in 5

#2 Miami vs #3 Boston

This series is being hyped up more than a Yankees/Red Sox series, which will get annoying soon if it hasn't already. Everyone is talking about how important this series is for LeBron James, but I think it is just as important for Chris Bosh. He has something to prove, and if he can't come through against Kevin Garnett, I think the Heat will have a decision to make with him. I like Boston in this series because I don't think Miami can match its sense of urgency, especially early in games. Its one thing to come from behind against the Sixers, its another to have to do it over and over against the Celtics. As dumb as it sounds, the most important players for the Heat could win up being Mike Bibby, Mario Chalmers, and James Jones. They have to knock down shots.

Prediction: Celtics in 6

Western Conference

#4 Oklahoma City vs #8 Memphis

When the Thunder made the Jeff Green for Kendrick Perkins trade everyone immediately talked about how that trade would help them against the Lakers. Well, as it turns out, its going to help them immensely against the Grizzlies. Perkins will help OKC matchup inside against Memphis. Even though they beat Denver in 5 games, I saw something that worried me about the Thunder: Russell Westbrook. He played selfish against the Nuggets, and I think thats the first time that has happened with this OKC team. Memphis would love nothing more than for him to hoist up 30 shots a game. Memphis shot over 47% against San Antonio, and I'm not sure that can continue. This could be a great series, and neither team lost at home in the first round.

Prediction: Thunder in 7

#2 LA Lakers vs #3 Dallas

Dirk and Kobe finally meet in the playoffs, and its a chance to see Jason Terry and Matt Barnes go at it after they had that little scuffle back towards the end of the regular season. Dallas played much better in the first round against a better team, but I still don't like the matchup for them because of rebounding. They didn't rebound well against Portland, and as has been said hundreds of times, that how the Lakers beat you. I think Dallas will cause the Lakers problems with Terry and Nowitzki, but they are just a little too reliant on the 3 to beat LA.

Prediction: Lakers in 7