The NBA playoff games have been set. Many teams have been paired up with the perfect opponent for them to win, others are paired with teams where they have the perfect chance to lose. Here is a brief look at the NBA matches in the Eastern Division on this date of April 15, 2011:
1 Chicago Bulls vs. 8 Indiana Pacers
As the Bulls have been dominant throughout the NBA season,ending their year at 62-20, they should have no problem handling the Pacers.
The Pacers have fought long and hard for that 8th spot, and they will also be fighting to get farther, which seems a slim chance to none. The Pacers have even said they wanted the 8th spot, possibly to shock the world and show how good they really are. With this mentality, Indiana will surely hope to put up a fight and possibly eliminate the Bulls.
2 Miami Heat vs. 7 Philadelphia 76ers
The Heat started out struggling this year, losing to many top teams. Miami also never fully recovered from all this, though they did pick up a final win over the Boston Celtics to push them to the third seed at the third to last game of the season. The Heat are also considered big winners over the course of the season, ending at 58-24.
The 76ers have trudged all year and have usually held the 7th and or 6th spot. It would be very surprising to see the 76ers make it past the first round as they are not a great team. In a way, they can be considered at best average, winning 41 games this year. Two starters on their team (Jodie Meeks and Spencer Hawes) are considered below average players, yet they start for the 76ers. The way the 76ers have made it so far is through teamwork and holding out until the end.
Seed 3 Boston Celtics Vs. Seed 6 New York Knicks
Ever since the trade deadline, both these teams have changed drastically. New York acquired Carmelo Anthony for a package of youngsters, and the Celtics traded away Kendrick Perkins. Boston started out well after the deadline, but quickly fell from the top of the conference to third. The best way for a struggling offense (Celtics) to get back on track and win is to play a team who does not care about defense (Knicks). This match-up should be great in its own way.
4 Orlando Magic vs. 5 Atlanta Hawks
This one is most likely going to be not a great and or huge series. Orlando did finish eight games ahead of the Hawks (52-30) and is is seen by many as a stronger force than Atlanta. With Dwight Howard, a dominant presence in the paint, and Jameer Nelson, a great point guard, which they should be able to take control of most of the games and take the wins.
Atlanta always seems to make the playoffs, but never makes it very far. This year looks about the same road for the Hawks. The match will be good, and Orlando will most likely take the series.
That’s my take on the East. Somebody’s got to win it all, maybe the Pacers or the 76ers. Surprises always happen in this sport, so be prepared for great playoff games.
