Rory Gold

The Eastern Conference playoffs just got a whole lot clearer after the news broke that Kevin Garnett would likely miss the entirety of the playoffs. With the Celtics missing their big man and defensive warrior, they only team that poses a threat to Cleveland’s coronation are the Orlando Magic. Let’s have a look at the first round and make a prediction for each series.

Cleveland – Detroit

LeBron will receive his first MVP award in a couple weeks time but LeBron has a more important trophy in mind. The addition of Mo Williams has given this team a second legit scoring option. But this team is LeBron’s and he’ll do everything in his power to make them champions. Expect to see something we’ve never seen before. Average a triple double for the series? Maybe? Let me know if you have your own LeBron predictions for the playoffs.

The Pistons won their first game vs. the Cavs but were beat comfortably in the final three games of the season series. The Pistons don’t have a chance in this series.

Rory Gold says, “NBA Bettors should take Cleveland in 4.”

Boston – Chicago

The city of Boston woke up this morning to the news KG will likely miss the entire playoffs. The question remains do Paul Pierce, Ray Ray and co. have enough to get them to the Eastern final? The answer is no. Chicago is not strong enough to win this series over 7 games but Derrick Rose and the rest of the young Bulls will gain some playoff experience. Don’t be surprised if the Bulls take a couple games from the deflated Celtic

Rory Gold says, “NBA Bettors should take Boston in 6.”

Orlando – Philadelphia

Orlando has some injury problems of their own, Hedo & Rashard are doubtful for the first round of the playoffs and with out their outside threats Orlando will have to lean on Dwight Howard more than usual. Philly has been dealing with the loss of huge free agent signee Elton Brand all season but clawed their way into the 6th seed avoiding Boston and Cleveland but they finished 0-4 versus the Magic so 6th wasn’t much of a consolation prize.

If the Sixers can throw enough bodies at Howard this series could get interesting. Part of me says this series screams upset but another part doesn’t want to discount Howard and Stan Van Gundy.

Rory Gold says, “NBA Bettors should take Orlando in 7.”

Atlanta – Miami

I can guarantee you one thing, the Hawks aren’t just happy to be here. This team took the Celtics to 7 games last year and with home court advantage against the Heat, they want to be in the second round. ATL has all of the tools, a defensive stud in Josh Smith, an offensive superstar in Joe Johnson and depth that the Heat can only dream of. The Heat have Dwyane Wade and for better part of the season that’s all they needed. However, Wade alone won’t be enough against this hungry Hawks team.

Rory Gold says, “NBA Bettors should take Atlanta in 6.”