Presto’s Complete 2013 NBA Playoffs First Round Predictions And Series Previews

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Apr 9, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) takes a shot over Milwaukee Bucks small forward Marquis Daniels (6) in the second half at the American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 94-83. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

(1) Miami Heat over (8) Milwaukee Bucks in 4

I was tempted to give Milwaukee a game just due to Larry Sanders’ shot blocking and Monta Ellis and Brandon Jennings simultaneously catching fire in the same game, but even that seems like too much given that Miami will use this first round as a statement series to the other teams in the East.

(2) New York Knicks over (7) Boston Celtics in 7

Mar 31, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Boston Celtics power forward Jeff Green (8) defends New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) as he controls the ball during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Knicks won 108-89. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

New York ultimately has too much fire power for Boston to match it without their 4-time All-Star and league leading assist man Rajon Rondo. The Celtics have arguably been a better team without No. 9, but that won’t last for a seven game series with a team whose offensive talents outclass them so heavily.