Best:
Warriors @ Grizzlies: Two of the best half-court teams in the West face each other in Memphis. Bobby Jackson should still be able to run the offense the same way, since he isn't going to be running up and down the floor. The Warriors are good at shooting 3's, though Memphis is even better at defending them. A wildcard like Mike Dunleavy needs to step up for either side. Predicted Score: Memphis wins in a defensive matchup 94-89
Runner-up:
Rockets @ Wizards: Two separate styles of play interact each other. Washington is a run-and-gun team that still is productive at scoring. Houston is struggling mightily and slows the game down. Whoever wins, we know that both Arenas and McGrady will have to play outstanding for their team to win. Predicted Score: Houston wins with fourth quarter heroics from Tracy McGrady 98-93
Blowout:
Magic @ Pistons: The Magic have been very sporadic this year and have somehow gripped onto the #8 seed in the East. Yet there are games where they just have no defensive intensity at all. No team that's off and on can have a hope for victory when they come to Detroit. Predicted Score: Detroit wins in an absolute route 99-82, easily toppling any spread given in the game. |
