*I wrote an entire breakdown of each game for each series, which somehow DID NOT SAVE. With that being said, I will keep this as short as possible due to annoyance.
Eastern Conference - Celtics (2) x Heat (1). Series tied at a game a piece.
Western Conference - Mavs (4) x Warriors (3). Warriors up 1-0, currently leading Game 2, 102-94 in the 4th quarter.
The East:
Game 1 - Jimmy Butler and perimeter defense. Heat takeover in the 2nd half and never look back.
Game 2 - The Marcus Smart game. The return of the Defensive Player of the Year proves to be of high value. C's dominate from the three-point line and coast to an easy victory.
Pre-series pick: Celtics in 6
I will be sticking with this pick.
The West:
Game 1 - Wiggins and the Warriors defense keep Luka to 20 points and dominate in clean fashion.
Game 2 - Dallas starts hot, but Golden State responds late in the 3rd quarter. The Dubs continue to stay hot into the 4th quarter with three-pointers. As of this moment, GS leads 110-100 as Dallas looks overwhelmed with four minutes remaining. Luka with 37.
Pre-series pick: GS in 6.
I stand by this pick.
Boston has struggled against Miami for years now, but the young C's have matured into a new team. Led by coach Udoka, the Celtics are committed to defense and moving the ball. I believed the winner of the Celtics/Bucks series would be the eventual champs, and I stand by that today.
Golden State is just too much for the Mavs. Luka will be the best performer in this series, but he will come up short. Good work by Jason Kidd to take this smaller lineup to a new high. They should be happy with their progress. No shame in losing to a more accredited team.
Who is your champ?
Boston Celtics
Miami Heat
Golden State Warriors
Dallas Mavericks