Jason Ross: Predictions For The Conference Finals

 

We have made it to the Final Four of the NBA postseason.  Our journey getting here was eventful but ultimately predictable.  The four teams that we thought would make it have made it.  In the East you have the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics.  Cleveland is relying on the magic of LeBron more than ever.  They are also getting the best version of King James.  The one man show has received some help as the other Cavs have responded lately.  The Boston Celtics have endured injuries and advanced.  They have taken advantage of the next man up philosophy and plug and played guys that all seem to work.  In the West the Warriors are back in an all to familiar position, while the Rockets are trying to take out the Champs.

 

So how will this all play out?  Nobody can ever truly know but I sure can give it my best guess.  I am so tempted to take the two home teams.  They both seem to be the under-dog though in this series.  Boston is not a fluke.  They are very well coached and have adapted the Spurs model of getting the most out of every player on the roster.  I am not entirely sure that they would be that much better if Kyrie and Hayward were there.  Other players have lifted their games and the team is playing as a cohesive unit.  Cleveland has the biggest X factor of them all.  LeBron James is so incredible. It is hard to bet against him.  He makes others better all while still getting his. I believe that Jaylen Brown will defend him well.  Brad Stevens will find little things that can work for the Celtics advantage.  They are really good defensively and Cleveland struggles on that side of the court.  With all that said, I am going with a lean towards LeBron.  I don’t feel great about this pick but I think the Cavs will win in 7.

 

In the West this should be a classic.  Two great offenses, with star power all over the floor.  The Warriors are better defensively, they share the ball better than any team ever but also get sloppy with it at times too.  The Rockets are deeper and more physical than they have even been.  Chris Paul and James Harden will be supremely motivated to get to the Finals.  The Rockets have made it no secret that they have built their team to beat Golden State.  Again, I am really tempted to take Houston but in the end I will go with the Warriors experience as I see them prevailing in 6 games.

Enjoy the conference finals.

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