West

#1 Golden State over #8 New Orleans in 5

Analysis: I expect the Warriors to continue being the best team in the league this year and for Anthony Davis to steal a game for the Pelicans.

#2 Houston over #7 Dallas in 6

Analysis: It is James Harden’s time so shine and finally get the Rockets out of the first round. I expect him to stay aggressive and be the difference maker throughout the series.

#6 San Antonio Spurs over #3 LA Clippers in 7

Analysis: This should be the most competitive series of the 1st round and just goes to show how incredibly tough the western conference is. My heart tells me that Chris Paul can finally get it done and get the Clippers to a conference finals, but my head says you should never bet against the Spurs when they’re being doubted. I’m hoping my heart will be right, but I have to go with my head for the pick.

#5 Memphis over #4 Portland in 6

Analysis: Damian Lillard is one of my favourite players in the NBA and I am expecting him to take over a game or two in the fourth quarter. However, the Blazers have too many injuries to overcome especially with the loss of Wesley Matthews and as a result the Grizzles should come out on top.

East

#1 Atlanta over #8 Brooklyn in 5

Analysis: The Nets are one of the ugliest teams to watch in the NBA and without Paul Pierce to close out games, I think Atlanta will shoot them out of the gym and put them out of their misery quickly.

#2 Cleveland over #7 Boston in 5

Analysis: I have enough respect for Brad Stevens to think that he can motivate his team to steal one game, but that’s the only bright spot the Celtics will have all series.

#3 Chicago over #6 Milwaukee in 5

Analysis: The Bulls are too experienced and hungry to let the young Bucks team threaten them. Derrick Rose should use this series to continue shaking off the rust and get in better game shape in order to give his best shot against the Cavs in round 2.

#4 Toronto over #5 Washington in 7

Analysis: Both teams come into the playoffs in poor form to close out the season. The winner of the series will be the team that can find their early season chemistry the quickest and I think the home court advantage for the Raptors will be enough for them edge out the Wizards in a tight one.