Round 2 Predictions

West:

1. Lakers vs. Rockets: Lakers, 5 games. The Lakers are determined, and despite the fact that the Rockets have Ron Artest to throw at Kobe, their lack of depth to make up with the Lakers front court will present a problem. The Lakers have too many weapons that do not match up well for the Rockets. Houston finally got out of the first round (and it took T-Mac sitting on the bench to do it), but their joy ride ends here. L.A. moves on.

2. Nuggets vs. Mavericks: Nuggets, 6 games. This has potential to be the most exciting and high-scoring second round series. The Mavs impressed many (including myself) with their domination of perennial powerhouse Spurs, but the Nuggets have many weapons of their own, including a variety of defenders to throw at Dirk. The Nuggets bench including the hot-handed J.R. Smith is one of the best and deepest in the League. The leadership of Chauncey and ability of Carmelo will nudge the Nugs forward into a Confrence Finals showdown with the Lakers.

East:

1. Cavs vs. Heat/Hawks: Cavaliers, 5 games. It seems like forever since I've watched a Cavs game, since they were the only team to sweep their first round series. Either team they face will be tired from a long 7 game series, while the Cavs continue to be the most well-rested team in the playoffs. If the Heat advance, Dwayne Wade should be able to get them a victory on his own, but unfortunately for Miami fans, that's all they can hope for. The Hawks should also be able to squeak out a victory at home, assuming that neither team will be able to grab a victory at the Q, where the Cavs were an absurd 39-2 this season. Assuming that the Cavs kept their focus and hunger during their recent down time (which is very likely considering they are led by a hungry LeBron), then they should coast into the Confrence Finals.

2. Celtics vs. Magic: Celtics, 7 games. The Celtics have to be tired. They just completed one of the best 7 game series in NBA history, which included 5 overtime games. This fatigue factor favors Orlando right off the bat. However, the Magic didn't look anything like the dominating team they were in the regular season in their first round series against Philly. They often struggled to score and looked lackluster on defense. Their main advantage in the series will be the presence of Dwight Howard compared to the depleted Boston backcourt. This is where the Celts will really miss Powe and Garnett, who could be used as extra bodies to throw at Dwight. But, Boston is solid in all other areas and certainly has the advantage at the point guard position and on the wings. If Boston can use the bigs that they still have to limit Dwight's impact, they should be able to advance and face the King and the Cavs.