Playoff Preview

Sadly, I just haven't had the time to do a massive breakdown of everything. I once had high hopes for this blog, and frankly I still do, yet I can't find the time to sit down and get it done right. For that readers, I apologize.

For any of you who continue to come here everyday, here's how I see round one shaking out.

I don't think the NBA could have hoped for better first round matchups after such a lackluster regular season. I am legitimately excited for six of the eight series, and a couple of them have off the charts potential.

Let's break it down

WEST

1) Dallas vs 8)Golden State

The trendy upset special. Don Nelson knows the Mavs inside and out. The Warriors give Dallas matchup problems. This series will be a track meet, and Golden State has come into their own offensively. All valid points, but Dallas is winning this series. They're too good, and they've played all year to avenge their Finals meltdown. Let's say Dallas in six.

2) Phoenix vs 7) LA Lakers

Sure it's a rematch from last year, but this Lakers team is nothing like the one that almost shocked Phoenix a year ago. They are struggling and banged up, and unless Kobe goes to a level I don't know he has, I like Phoenix in five. It will be a VERY interesting offseason in Los Angeles.

3) San Antonio vs 6) Denver

Very intriguing series. Denver has been red-hot of late, and they'll work the double-superstar tandem of 'Melo and A.I. to their advantage. San Antonio has the pedigree of a champion, and I've learned over the years not to pick against Tim Duncan when it counts. Spurs in six.

4) Utah vs 5) Houston

Count me among the non-believers in the Utah Jazz. They haven't been playing very well in the second half, and Houston seems like a very tough matchup for them on paper. I think Tracy McGrady finally gets a playoff win, but Yao is the reason. Houston in seven.

EAST

1) Detroit vs 8) Orlando

I wrote about one of their regular season matchups when the Magic were playing brilliantly, and Detroit smoked them when they needed to in that game. Same outcome here, just multiplied by four. Detroit in five.

2) Cleveland vs 7) Washington

Would be a great series if Caron Butler and Gilbert Arenas were on the floor. As it stands, LeBron can hold back for one more round before unleashing everything he has on poor Toronto. Cavs sweep.

3) Toronto vs 6) New Jersey

Toronto's crowd vs Vince Carter is by far and away the best story heading into these playoffs. It's like a wrestling environment, with V.C. playing a great villian character. As much as I don't buy into the Jazz bandwagon, I am leading the way on the Raptors train. They win in six. Chris Bosh breaks out even further.

4) Miami vs 5) Chicago

Great re-match. I am fully convinced the Bulls lost to New Jersey Wednesday night to get this series. As Shaq said, "Be careful what you wish for." Is Dwayne Wade healthy enough to make a difference? Will Scott Skiles give Tyrus Thomas key minutes? The answers to those two questions decide the series. Champs in seven.