The first round of the NBA Playoffs wraps up with all higher seeds advancing. Jarael and Ryan continue their predictions in the Western Conference.
Western Conference
Phoenix Suns (1) v Dallas Mavericks (4)
Jarael: The Mavs have finally found their groove and made it out of the first round. If there is any player that can make life difficult for the Suns it’s Luka Doncic and with the supporting cast he has, I think the Mavs have a chance. Booker not being 100% is huge in this series and it has me having the Mavs winning since they have been so competitive. (Mavs 4-2)
Ryan: At the beginning of the Playoffs I figured the Suns would breeze to another Finals appearance, but now with an injured Devin Booker, the Suns will have a major challenge against Luka Doncic and Mavs. I believe this series will come down to Chris Paul. He will need to continue to carry the team until Devin Booker is back to 100%. I believe he continues his impressive play to help the Sun advance in this back and forth series. (Suns 4-3).
Memphis Grizzlies (2) v Golden State Warriors (3)
Jarael: A true test for Ja Maront. Last round we saw him struggle and the team rallied around Ja’s mediocre offensive performances. I think Ja is more aggressive this series but the Warriors’ defense is going to be too much for this young team. They have never played in front of those playoff Golden State crowds and that will show. I look for Draymond Green to have a dominant defensive performance and take away all those offensive rebounds we saw in Minnesota. (Warriors 4-1).
Ryan: The Warriors have found their Playoff mojo again and may have the emergence of another NBA All-Star in Jordan Poole. Ja Morant is special. But The Grizzles constantly found themselves down double digits in the 4th quarter against the Timberwolves before mounting comebacks. But if you find yourself down double digits in the fourth quarter against this Warriors team, you are in danger. (Warriors 4-1).
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