West

1. Golden State Warriors vs. 8. Houston Rockets

The Rockets have been one of the most disappointing teams this season after making it to the Western Conference Finals last season. James Harden can get the Rockets one win, but that’s all against the best team in the league.

Prediction: Warriors in 5

2. San Antonio Spurs vs. 7. Memphis Grizzles

The Grizzles have a history of playing well against the Spurs in the playoffs, but they have too many injuries to overcome this time. The Spurs will be able to win comfortably and not be threatened the entire series.

Prediction: Spurs in 4

3. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. 6. Dallas Mavericks

The Thunder have had their struggles at times this season, especially in trying to close out games in the 4th quarter. The Mavs are a veteran team with one of the best coaches in basketball. They’ll put up a good fight, but I expect Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant to step up their game and lead the Thunder to the next round.

Prediction: Thunder in 6

4. Los Angeles Clippers vs. 5. Portland Trailblazers

The Clippers have played well despite not having Blake Griffin for most of the season. It will be interesting to see how he integrates back with the team and if he can shake off the rust to return to form. The Blazers backcourt of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum is one of the best in the league and can shoot any team off the floor. The Clippers are the better overall team though and will have the edge in what should be a very fun series to watch.

Prediction: Clippers in 6

East

1. Cleveland Cavaliers vs. 8. Detroit Pistons

The Pistons are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2009. Andre Drummond and Reggie Jackson will be the key players that have to really step up their game if they want to win a game. I think they will, but the Cavs are just too good to keep this series from going past game 5.

Prediction: Cavaliers in 5

2. Toronto Raptors. 7. Indiana Pacers

The Raptors had their best regular season in franchise history and they’re looking to shake off the discouraging 1st round exits from the past two seasons. They have more depth and experience than ever before and should be able to finally get over the line. The Pacers will put up a good fight and they could make it a long series if Paul George and Monta Ellis shoot well.

Prediction: Raptors in 6

3. Miami Heat vs. Charlotte Hornets

This should be a very competitive series as both teams are very evenly matched. The Hornets are the better 3 point shooting team and could steal a few games in Miami if they can get hot. I’m giving the edge to the Heat because of the experience of Dwyane Wade and Joe Johnson who are both great at closing out games.

Prediction: Heat in 7

4. Atlanta Hawks vs. 5. Boston Celtics

This is another series that is going to very tight because there isn’t much that separates the two teams. Both teams move the ball well on offense and play tenacious defense. I think this series is destined to go 7 games and the Hawks will pull it out because they have home court advantage.

Prediction: Hawks in 7