With the first round of the NBA playoffs already in history books, things are about to get very real. There will be no more margin for error or room to make adjustments, and getting hot at the right time could take you all the way to the NBA Finals.
The defending champions are in shambles, and it seems like we’re going to have a new Western Conference champion.
Still, anything can happen at this point in the season. With that in mind, we’re going to share our top picks for today’s slate.
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Boston Celtics vs Cleveland Cavaliers
The Boston Celtics have set a new record for the most 25+ point wins in a single season in NBA history (19), so even if the spread seems like a lot — especially without Kristaps Porzingis — it might actually be a reasonable number.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are no match for this team, and they’re still without Jarrett Allen.
The Celtics have won four of their past five games by 20 points, with all wins coming by at least 14 points.
Pick: Celtics -13
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Dallas Mavericks
Luka Doncic doesn’t look healthy right now, and that’s clearly a major issue for the Dallas Mavericks.
The Oklahoma City Thunder held him to 19 points in as many shots, and Kyrie Irving also struggled against their switches and physicality.
The Thunder are still undefeated in these playoffs, and they look like a team on a mission right now. They’re more athletic, shoot the ball better, and don’t have a stagnant offense like the Mavs.
Dallas should be better in Game 2, but it might still not be enough.
Pick: Thunder -5
