NBA Playoffs Second Round Predictions

Detroit still has to get past Philly but the Pistons probably will considering they have Game 7 at their place if necessary and they seem to have flipped the proverbial switch on the Sixers. Chauncey Billups is way too big and strong for Jameer Nelson and the Magic have no one else who could possibly guard him. As Billups goes, so go the Pistons, and I expect a huge series from him. Rasheed Wallace should do a decent job on Dwight Howard if this series comes to fruition while Tayshaun Prince can shut down either Hedo Turkoglu or Rashard Lewis.

Boston vs. Cleveland-

The Celtics and Cavs have both looked surprisingly shaky in their first round series but that won't matter when they go head-to-head in the next round. Boston has great team defense but so do the Cavs, so this will be a matchup of strength on strength. Overall you have to like the Big 3 of Boston over LeBron and his role players in this one, especially since Boston has the home court.

LA Lakers vs. Utah Jazz-

The Lakers have been playing great but you get a sense that Phil Jackson doesn't quite consider them an elite team just yet. Utah is a great home team and should win all the games in Utah. Can they steal one in LA? Of course they can. Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer are a great 1-2 punch and the Jazz have better all-around depth. They don't have anyone to guard Kobe Bryant but they should still win a close series.

San Antonio vs. New Orleans-

The Spurs should win this one easily because they have too much experience for the young Hornets. The Sipurs win this one in about six games and set up the conference finals matchup that the die-hards want to see but the casual fans don't. I was going to say that "no one wants to see" but I'm tired of hearing people complain about the matchups. True hoops fans should appreciate how good the Spurs and Jazz really are.