Conference Finals Picks

Conference Finals Predictions

We have finished the semi-finals and are headed to the conference finals. The semi-s did not disappoint and neither will these. Let’s get into the predictions.

1. Celtics vs 6. Pacers

The C’s continue to roll through the East as they won in 5 games against a beat-up Cavaliers team. I do think they will continue this run but I will say, the absence of Porzingis in games 1 & 2 will be a fight. I hope there are no more injuries as it seems there has been no series in the East that had completely healthy players on both teams. P.S. Someone needs to remind Tatum that he is 6’9 and that he doesn’t just have to take step back 3’s every possession. USE THE FRAME GOD GAVE YOU!

Indiana continues their historically fast-paced offense and their improved defense to make it to the ECF. It is such a shock to see this team without a starter in Benedict Mathurin make such a surprising run. I will say, that they have had some luck with the Giannis, Dame, Brunson, Hart, Robinson, and OG injuries (yes the Knicks were playing with like 2 healthy guys) but nonetheless, they made it and that’s all that matters. This run is on the same level of surprise as the 2021 Atlant Hawks to me. Nobody predicted this from Indiana but they continue to prove them wrong, so we will see if they will do that one more time. I do think they end it here if the Celtics remain as healthy as they can. They will squeak out a game due to the speed in which they utilize.

Official Pick: Celtics in 5

2. Timberwolves vs 5. Mavericks

Anthony freaking Edwards. That dude is showing why he is a top 10 player in the league. His team was up 2-0, lost 3 straight games, then proceeded to beat the defending champs with the 3-time MVP in 7 games on the road. Insanity. I love how intense he gets and how he backs it up. One of my favorite moments is after game 7 when they came back from down 20, he said “I had Jamal in handcuffs.” And that is exactly what he did. I think they have a real shot at the title with how good they play team defense. This series though, I think comes down to the 'others’. What I mean by that is the guys who we don’t expect to put up big numbers. People such as Mike Conley, Jaden McDaniels, and NAW. If they can hit their shots then the Timberwolves will be on their way to the Finals.

Dallas came out and smoked my pick. I had them losing in 7 but they decided to win in 6 games to the 1 seed. Luka continues to cook, Kyrie goes on his 2nd half runs where he doesn’t miss, and everyone else does exactly what they need to do. Just like I said for the Wolves, the ‘others’ are gonna a have to step up in the big moments and help Luka and Kyrie. This series is going to be physical and a dogfight all 7 games.

The thing I think the Timberwolves have that will put them over the top is the team defense and how they have 5 guys on the court who can guard. The double teams and switches are something that Luka has been exposing but this time, I think he will not have an answer. Agaon, that is unless the role players hit their shots such as DJJ, PJ Washington, THJ, and Josh Green if he plays.

Official Pick: Timberwolves in 7