Murphy's Multiverse

Tag: NBA Playoffs

  • Eastern Conference Finals Preview

    Eastern Conference Finals Preview

    The Miami Heat and Boston Celtics got to this point in two different ways. The Heat took Trae Young and the Hawks to school and then broke the Sixers over their knee. The Celtics took out KD, Kyrie, and the Nets then outlasted Giannis and the defending champs. While those paths were different, the teams operated the same. They defended on a level higher than any of the teams they’ve played could reach, and executed on offense more efficiently. Now, these teams play each other. Miami has home court, Boston has some hunger to get to the finals, and this series should be fantastic.

    Tale of the Tape: These teams have a lot of similar qualities. Head coaches who are tacticians that think quick on their feet. Ime Udoka and Erik Spolestra are very adept at figuring out weaknesses and attacking them. It’s a legitimately fascinating chess match. Spolestra has the experience, but Ime has been doing a tremendous job on the fly.

    The Heat and Celtics both rely on talented two way players on the wing. For Boston, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are a more than formidable tandem. For Miami, Jimmy Butler leads a cast of very tough and intelligent guys on the wing. Both teams have hyper athletic defensive big men in Robert Williams and Bam Adebayo. Both teams have guards that are full of intangibles, and guys off the bench who contribute. These teams feel even don’t they? Let’s dive deeper.

    Key Matchup: Robert Williams & Al Horford vs Bam Adebayo

    Now you must be asking, why isn’t this Jimmy Butler vs Jayson Tatum? That’s a matchup that comes into play, but they’re both equally great. There’s a considerable chance that they cancel each other out. There’ll be plenty of time to discuss how each can affect the series as it goes.

    The reason why Timelord and Horford versus Bam is the matchup is because of two years ago. These same teams matched up in the conference finals, and when push came to shove Bam sent the Celtics packing. He would drive the ball from end to end attacking the rim and it felt like he took Boston’s will. It was an Adebayo we’ve never seen before. There was almost a Giannis like quality of him barreling his way to the rim but with the grace of a gymnast. Bam also made the key play of Game 1 of that series when he blocked Jayson Tatum. It was one of the memorable blocks of postseasons past.

    In this postseason though, the Celtics will need their best big men to contain Bam. Robert Williams has been working his way back from a meniscus injury but should be ready for Game 1. Al Horford continues to be a steady presence for Boston as these playoffs go but can he hold up? It’s been a lot of minutes against high level competition. He bears watching in this series. For Bam’s side it would be nice to see him getting aggressive down hill against the Celtics D. He can open up things for the perimeter guys on Miami. This matchup will be a bellwether for how this series goes.

    Here you can see how effective Bam is on a grab and go situation in transition.

    The Prediction: Both of these teams are the cream of the crop on the defensive end. It has potential to be a classic. The Celtics have been the best team in the league since February. The Heat have been the best team in the East all year. Can the Heat create offense in a close game down the stretch? Will the Celtics rotation be able to survive the Heat’s depth? It’ll be interesting to see those questions be answered, and I’ll go Heat in 7. Home court, and the Heat’s defense will be just enough against a very capable Boston Celtics team.

  • Suns vs Mavericks Game 7 Preview 

    Suns vs Mavericks Game 7 Preview 

    The Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks have played an unorthodox 6 games to get to Game 7. The home team has won every game and won them decisively. The series has featured the young, coming-of-age superstar in Luka Doncic trying to knock off Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and the league-leading Suns. There is a ton at stake in this game 7, but to be quite honest it’s surprising we’re here.

    After the first two games of the series which Phoenix controlled easily, Dallas has adjusted and changed strategy. Their role players have stepped up defensively, answering the call of head coach Jason Kidd. More importantly, the Mavs at home have gotten the three-point shot going including 16 3s in the Game 6 victory. Chris Paul has played poorly over the last four games, but got an extra day off going into this one. Simply put, this would be an incredibly disappointing result for the Suns if they were to lose this game.

    What’s at stake for the Suns: This could be Chris Paul’s last best opportunity to win a championship. The Suns last season blew a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals. They fought all season to be the best team in the regular season, and now have to cash that in. We always think great teams will get back to this level, but CP3 is getting older. As great as he’s been, you never know what can happen once you get to this stage of your career. The Suns don’t want to have another version of “what if…?” on their minds if they lose this game.

    What’s at stake for the Mavericks: A trip to the Conference Finals, validation for the Kristaps Porzingis trade, and a message to the league. That message? As long as Luka Doncic is on your team, you have a chance to contend for a title. It’s really remarkable that this team has transformed into this. Their defense has outperformed what we’ve expected all season. Their roster has been full of guys who’ve performed well under pressure, and there’s no fear. Winning this game would give them a legitimate chance to win a championship.

    The Suns will win if… Chris Paul plays like Chris Paul. It’s important to recognize how bad CP3 has been in the last four games of this series. Averaging under double digits in points and almost as many turnovers as assists is not going to get it done. The maestro needs to get back to his efficient ways. Also, Deandre Ayton has to play better. In the earlier portions of the series it looked like he would dominate the matchup. Now, it feels like he hasn’t been up to snuff. They need his aggression and inside presence. There’s still an advantage to be had and Ayton has to take that advantage.

    The Mavericks will win if… they get an outlier performance from a third guy. Luka is going to score, Jaylen Brunson is going to score, they need another guy going. Whether it’s Dorian Finney Smith(8 3s in game 4) or Spencer Dinwiddie, on the road you need more contributors. Maxi Kleber will also be a guy to watch in this one. Foul trouble for him will be huge. There’ll be spaces during the game  where it will require a bit from everyone. Another guy to watch out for? Reggie Bullock. He’s had a great series on both ends of the floor.

    The Prediction: It’s the best team in the NBA going up against perhaps the most dynamic offensive player remaining in the playoffs. The Suns are at home and the Mavericks haven’t beaten them yet there. In a one game sample though with everything at stake? You can certainly make the case for Luka having a virtuoso performance. It’s just hard to see the Suns season end right here, so the Suns will be the pick to find a way to win at home.

  • Bucks vs Celtics Game 7 Preview

    Bucks vs Celtics Game 7 Preview

    After the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Boston Celtics 110-107 in Game 5 of the semifinal series, the thought was Boston gave that game away. The Bucks once again had proven their championship mettle and the Celtics had blown a golden opportunity. What lay ahead was a Game 6 in Milwaukee, and Jayson Tatum proved that he was ready for his ascension. 

    Tatum flummoxed the Bucks with his ability to get to the rim and hit from the perimeter, scoring 46 points on 17/32 shooting. Time and time again, when Giannis Antetokounmpo kept coming with 44 points of his own, Tatum responded. The Celtics again got contributions from multiple guys which now has us at a Game 7. This series is turning into a classic, and now we have reached the endgame.

    What’s At Stake for Boston: A chance to take down the defending champs and to addvance to the conference finals. Also, the journey in molding a superstar in Jayson Tatum would feel near complete. 

    What’s At Stake for Milwaukee: A trip to the conference finals, and surviving in hopes of getting injured star Khris Middleton back. Also, Giannis cementing his status as the best player in the league. Considering how the Bucks are heavy underdogs in the series this would be a massive achievement for Milwaukee.

    Boston will win if…. they get a similar 3 point variance they got in Game 6 as they hit 17 3s. Game 7’s are normally ugly, so any type of transition baskets they can generate would help. Feed off the home crowd, and get good performances from Marcus Smart and Al Horford. The stars will be stars, but usually there’s an unsung hero somewhere.

    Milwaukee will win if….. they get any type of help from a third scorer. Giannis and Jrue Holiday have been the only reliable offense in the series. The Bucks are going to need someone to step up and fill those gaps. Expect Giannis to be dominant once again, but if Tatum matches him like he did in Game 6, they’ll need more from others.

    The Prediction: On the last day of the regular season, the Bucks had a chance to be the 2nd seed. They decided to sit their stars and punt on home court in the 2nd round. That decision allowed Boston to host this game. Is home court advantage overrated? To a degree, but it usually matters in a Game 7. The numbers don’t lie. It will take a Herculean effort against a hungry, resilient Boston team to win this. If there’s anyone who can beat back this challenge, it’s Giannis Antetokounmpo. The champs have been staggered, but they won’t fall. Bucks win Game 7.

  • NBA Playoffs Notebook 

    NBA Playoffs Notebook 

    Celtics vs Bucks

    The defending champs had a chance to put the Celtics on the brink of elimination in Game 4. Giannis Antetokounmpo and the undermanned Bucks have continued to show their mental toughness but they were throttled by a veteran. Al Horford, at 35 years old, scored 16 of his 30 points in the 4th quarter leading Boston to a 116-108 victory. It was a truly incredible performance. Now we head to a pivotal Game 5 back in Boston to see who takes control of the series. It isn’t an exaggeration to say the winner of this series will be a big time title favorite.  

    Grizzlies vs Warriors

    In a series filled with flagrant fouls, suspensions, and trash talk, the veteran Golden State team finds itself on the brink of another conference finals trip. Steph Curry scored 32 points in Game 4 leading the Warriors back from a lackadaisical performance to win 101-98. All of this is marred by the injury that was sustained in Game 3 by Grizzlies star Ja Morant. Ja is going to miss the rest of the playoffs with a bone bruise in his knee. With a 3-1 series lead and Memphis injured and inexperienced, the Warriors are poised to close the series out. The Grizzlies have fought all season, and expect a fight from them in Game 5 at home.

    Heat vs Sixers 

    Miami took a 3-2 series lead with a dominant 120-85 victory Tuesday night in Miami. After two disappointing games on the road, the Heat was on as they shot 53 percent from the floor and hit 13 threes. Their defense was suffocating and more like the Heat team we’ve seen the whole season. Philadelphia struggled mightily, and star center Joel Embiid was not on his game. Considering what he’s been through-an orbital bone fracture and a concussion and torn ligaments in his thumb-you have to feel for him. Can the Sixers summon one more performance at home to force a game 7? Absolutely. However with the way the Heat have defended all postseason plus Embiid and James Harden’s lack of help around them? Winning this series seems like it would be a shock at this point.

    Suns vs Mavericks

    Dallas shot their way back into the series with 2 big wins at home with a barrage of 3 pointers. The Phoenix Suns got back to their defensive ways in Game 5, only allowing 80 points as the Mavs committed 18 turnovers. Dallas couldn’t get anyone besides Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson to hit a shot. Devin Booker led Phoenix with 28 points and the Suns can end the series Thursday in Dallas. The Mavericks showed a lot of heart tying the series, but now their feet are to the fire. Can they force a game 7? The odds are against them, and the Suns are the better team. Sometimes it just comes down to if you can make shots. 

    The Most Valuable Player

    According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Denver Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic will be announced as the MVP for a second consecutive year. Jokic would be the 13th player to do so, and it’s well deserved. Jokic (27.1 ppg 13.8 rpg 7.9 apg) carried a team that was missing its second and third best players all season. He improved on his first MVP season, showing growth in all facets of his game, including his much maligned defense. Truth be told, we haven’t seen a talent like him; an offensive hub at that size with passing skills like a guard is incredible. You can’t guard him as he has so many moves in his bag. Get that man some help. 

    Joel Embiid would be a great choice, too, and most wouldn’t have quibbled with it. He was deserving as well, and hopefully he’ll get his opportunity to win eventually. However this was Nikola Jokic’s year again and we can look forward to seeing this battle continue into next season.

  • The NBA’s Dearly Departed: Utah Jazz Edition

    The NBA’s Dearly Departed: Utah Jazz Edition

    As teams in the NBA Playoffs get eliminated, Murphy’s Multiverse takes a look at their prospects for next season. The Utah Jazz had a lot riding on their 2021-2022 season after multiple disappointing playoff losses in the last 5 years. This was a year to determine if the duo of All-Stars, Donavon Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, is one capable of finally bringing a championship to Utah. Famously, Mitchell stated at the beginning of the season that he will not settle for anything less than reaching the Conference Finals. A goal that wasn’t realistic to begin with given their roster make-up. Can the Jazz finally put to together a roster that will propel them past the 2nd round in the Playoffs?

    Notable Free Agents

    • Guard Trent Forrest (Restricted)
    • Forward Danuel House
    • Forward Eric Paschall
    • Center Hassan Whiteside

    Projected 2022-2023 Starting Lineup

    • PG Mike Conley
    • SG Donovan Mitchell
    • SF Bojan Bogdanovic
    • PF Royce O’Neale
    • C Rudy Gobert

    The Rudy Gobert/Donavan Mitchell Conundrum

    The relationship between Mitchell and Gobert seems to have reached a breaking point on and off the court with both players taking subtle (and not so subtle) swipes at each other after various disappointing losses throughout the season. In the NBA, winning always seems to fix everything but with constant disappointing playoff losses, it’ll be very unlikely that the team can move forward with both stars on the roster. Which one the Jazz should trade is the most important question. Mitchell is a gifted scorer that’s able to light it up in bursts and give his team a strong offensive weapon, but his lack of strong growth as a playmaker limits the Jazz and his lack of size at 6’1 makes him a consistent defensive liability on the perimeter. Gobert on the hand is one of the best defensive centers in the league whose presence down low forces opponents to jack up jump shots instead of attempting to get to the rim, but unfortunately, he’s easy to scheme against as his lack of foot speed and lateral quickness makes him a huge liability against opposing pick and roll offense.

    Lack of Off-Season Flexibility

    The unfortunate truth in the NBA is that small market teams have a hard time attracting free agents and must typically overpay for talent to get them to agree to sign there. The Jazz badly needs perimeter defense as Mike Conley is now washed and Mitchell is too small to truly be a defensive threat. The unfortunate truth is that with three large contracts on the books, they really don’t have the flexibility to sign meaningful free agents. The Jazz is between a rock and a hard place, and they will have to blow up this roster with trades in order to truly make an off season impact.

    Quin Snyder’s Future

    Snyder has been the coach of the Jazz since 2014 with a positive win percentage. He’s a good and successful coach in a league that has a deficit of good coaching talent, but unless you’re Greg Popovich or Erik Spoelstra, the coach is typically the first one to go when a team is in turmoil. With Mitchell and Gobert both signed to long term contracts, I can see a scenario in which the Jazz chooses starting fresh with a new coach as a band aid fix for their massive problems.

  • Key Questions for Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs

    Key Questions for Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs

    As a competitive Round One of the NBA Playoffs wraps up, we preview the Round Two matchups by asking one question about each team. These are all title-caliber defensive teams, which means there will be some tough, physical basketball to come, and scoring will be at a premium.

    Eastern Conference

    Miami Heat

    Are the Heat Contenders or Overachievers? Despite earning the 1-seed in the East, people don’t seem to put a lot of respect on their name. Their infamous clipboard feud in the last week of the season made them look like a team in disarray. They had just enough daylight in the standings, and Brooklyn looming as a play-in obstacle, that the other East contenders rested down the stretch, proving they had little fear of coming to Miami in the Conference Finals. Before Game 1 of the playoffs many books gave them the fifth best odds in the East.  But this is a team just two years removed from a Finals appearance. Butler and Lowry (when healthy) have been here before and play consistently, so their young support players (mostly Herro and Robinson) will determine if they can put up enough points to make it back.

    Philadelphia 76ers

    Is James Harden still a Top-10 player in the league? Sixers fans breathed a huge sigh of relief when they put away the Raptors in Game 6 and avoided conversations about losing a 3-0 lead. News broke late that when Embiid took an elbow to the face, he suffered a concussion and broke an orbital bone. Joel just wrapped a second season where he will finish Top-2 in the MVP voting, and there is no timetable set for his return. All eyes turn to Harden, who has gone long stretches where it feels like he lost a step and just can’t get to the basket at an elite level. Then he bounces back with 22 and 15 on 40% from 3. He wants one last contract where he is paid like an MVP-caliber player, and that is what this Philly team needs him to be. Miami has a stingy defense behind a good coach, and they will throw young wings at him much like Toronto did. They will hunt him on the other end to get easier points and wear him out. If he leaks points on one end or goes 2-11 again, the max contract he will demand this offseason is not going to look all that palatable.

    Boston Celtics

    Will the Boston defense hold up against Giannis and the Bucks? The book on Kevin Durant has been that he will get his, but you need players that make him work for it. Boston did the unthinkable and actually shut him down. Can the C’s defense have the same impact on Giannis? If Rob Williams can get back to full strength, it will bolster a frontcourt that has lots of switchable big men. Their backcourt has really clamped down, and I expect we will see them send defenders to double Giannis as a rule. Boston had historic advanced metrics after the calendar turned to the new year. Now it will be asked to shut down a second MVP-caliber player to prove it was not a fluke.

    Milwaukee Bucks

    Will the Bucks regret giving Boston the 2-seed? Everyone believes that as the playoff picture emerged, the Bucks took their foot off the gas to avoid a potential rematch with the Nets in the 2/7 matchup. Well the Nets fizzled out, and Milwaukee cruised past the flagging Bulls. Now the Bucks, who lost some role players that wanted to get paid after getting their ring, head to Boston to continue their title defense. They looked at times this year like they might be coasting a little bit, waiting for the playoffs to flip the switch. With Middleton looking more and more likely to miss this entire series, are the Bucks going to find themselves wishing they had home court advantage for crucial Games 5 and 7? 

    Western Conference 

    Phoenix Suns

    Is Booker’s hamstring going to approach 100%? The Suns’ ceiling was title favorite, but the Booker injury, and dropping a few games to the feisty Pelicans, brought them back down to the pack. Booker was surprisingly able to play way ahead of schedule in a Game 6 return, and he had decent numbers while playing on a minutes restriction. But it seems like the hamstring is one of those injuries that gets setbacks very frequently. Dallas no doubt plans to make him work on the defensive end, behind the arc where they did the most damage to the Jazz in their matchup. At their best, the Mavs had a suffocating defense this year. Booker’s scoring will mean the difference between moving one step closer to another Finals appearance, or going home early and making some hard decisions about this roster.

    Dallas Mavericks

    Will Jalen Brunson come back down to Earth? When it looked like Luka Doncic was going to miss the series, everyone wondered if the rest of the team would step up. Brunson carved up the Utah defense, scoring about 28 ppg (he averaged 16 ppg during the regular season). But his percentages in the series are in line with his normal numbers; he managed to keep his same efficiency while getting a bigger usage. When Doncic returned, Brunson kept contributing, dishing out assists and keeping turnovers to a minimum. Because he was a second round draft pick, he is an unrestricted free agent this offseason. He made himself quite a bit of money this season with his improvement, and shouldering the load against the Jazz definitely didn’t hurt. A strong series against the 1-seed Suns could propel him into a max contract this summer.

    Memphis Grizzlies

    Is this young team ready to make some playoff noise? It is not lost on me that this Memphis team is going up against the Warriors, who found themselves in a similar position in 2014. One year after making the second round, they went up against a veteran Clippers team and lost in 7. Conventional wisdom is that young teams have to take their lumps in the playoffs to elevate to that elite level and join the real contenders. These Grizzlies are not afraid of anyone, as Ja Morant’s monster jams and their 20-point comebacks have proved. Going up against the second coming of the Golden State dynasty, they have an opportunity to stake their claim as a serious contender, but even if they lose they are getting the kind of playoff experience that can prepare young teams for greatness.

    Golden State Warriors

    Should the Warriors be considered the title favorites? When Steph Curry went down with a lower leg injury late in the season, it seemed like this team was never going to get everyone on the court at the same time. Draymond missed an extended period after the new year, and their Big Three did not get much time together this year. As they dropped out of the second place in the West and were even threatened by Dallas for the 3 seed, speculation started about who could be moved to bolster their stars. But this is a team that has so much experience, they returned to top form immediately. Jordan Poole’s emergence is a great story, and it gives Steve Kerr the flexibility to bring Curry off the bench as maybe the best sixth man ever. They dispatched a Denver squad that was very thin outside of Jokic. Memphis has so many more weapons, and will provide a much tougher test of Golden State.

  • Western Conference Playoffs Notebook-The Young Ones Dueling  

    Western Conference Playoffs Notebook-The Young Ones Dueling  

    The most exciting series of the NBA Playoffs so far is the Memphis Grizzlies versus the Minnesota Timberwolves. Full of striking athleticism and tension on the court, we have a classic brewing.

    The Grizzlies and Wolves are headed back to Memphis for Game 5 after a 119-118 Wolves win to tie the series. Karl Towns scored 33 points and grabbed 14 rebounds in a huge effort to even things up. It’s a series full of incredible swings in momentum. In Game 3, the Wolves built separate 20 point leads only to lose them and the game. The Grizzlies used a 21-0 run spanning both third and fourth quarters to take control. The Wolves and their fans were shell shocked. They easily could’ve collapsed, if not for Towns and Anthony Edwards.

    It was the Wolves physicality in earning 40 free throw attempts that helped them tip the scales in Game 4. Both of these squads are young and sometimes can get out of control, which leads to mistakes. Those mistakes are turnovers and fouls, and the Grizzlies could not stop fouling. We can question the playoff officiating as Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins did here vorciferously.

    Granted, there are inconsistencies in the officiating but the Grizzlies have to be more under control. An important player like Jaren Jackson Jr is constantly in foul trouble(6 fouls in 23 minutes in Game 4) and it’s putting the Grizzlies in poor position to defend Karl Towns. With that foul trouble, Towns is seeing smaller defenders and getting easier opportunities to drive to the rim like here. Even in a crowd, Towns is too big and too strong to be deterred.

    Memphis really needs Ja Morant to play better. Whether it’s his sore knee or just poor play, we haven’t seen the dynamism he usually brings. Minnesota is attacking him relentlessly on defense. Patrick Beverley has been going by Ja all series for buckets or sucking in the defense for a better look. Bottom line, Morant has to be better on both ends of the floor.

    As the series reaches a critical juncture, Minnesota has fought their way to having a shot to win. Memphis Guard Desmond Bane has scored 60 points in the last two, and he’s going to need some more assistance as they go. That will have to come from Ja scoring the ball. Can he provide that? It’ll be interesting to see. If Minnesota can continue to be the more physical team we can see an upset. Game 5 looms very large as we head back to Memphis.

  • Eastern Conference Playoff Notebook

    Eastern Conference Playoff Notebook

    The NBA’s Eastern Conference Playoffs have been slightly disappointing with all series most likely ending in 5 or 6 games. To date, outside of the Brooklyn Vs. Boston series, all series have played 4 games. As we move on to the end of the first round, let’s look at the various story lines.

    The Boston Celtics Defense

    We all knew that the Celtics defense was going to be a problem for the Nets but I doubt anyone expected the Celtics to be leading 3-0 and expecting to sweep Brooklyn. The switch heavy Celtics have locked up Durant all series, forcing Durant to shoot 36% from the field (a steep drop compared to his 54% from the 2021 series). What’s the difference here? How is Boston able to achieve shutting down KD like this? Well, it’s the wing depth. Between Jayson Tatum, Marcus Smart, and Al Horford, Boston can easily switch onto Durant, quickly invading his shooting space, giving him very little space to get a clean jump shot off. It doesn’t help that the Nets are running very little back screens to even try to get KD clean looks. The consistent defensive intensity from almost everyone on the Celtics in a playoff setting is eye opening here and gives me confidence that the Celtics can make a real push here in the post season.

    Khris Middleton Injury

    Losing Khris Middleton early in the playoffs is a huge blow to the Bucks. It might not feel that way given their current opponent, but the impact will be felt if the Bucks face the Celtics in the second round. Without Middleton, the Celtics would be able to swarm Giannis, making him work for every bucket he makes. The Celtics will settle for open Bobby Portis shots if that means Giannis will be uncomfortable the whole game. The Bucks will have to make adjustments to deal with the intensity of Boston’s never-ending lineup of switchable, defensive, and athletic forwards. The Bucks coach, Mike Budenholzer is not known for making many adjustments mid series, so it will be interesting to follow how the Bucks adjust to the Celtics defense without Middleton’s extra offensive punch.

    How Far Can Embiid Go?

    Joel Embiid is currently playing with a thumb ligament tear…yeah, you read that right. Joel Embiid is playing with a ligament tear and has no plans to sit out the playoffs. The plan here is to get surgery after the playoffs and fight through the pain with the hopes of bringing the championship to Philly. This is commendable-if not silly and dangerous to his career, but still commendable. I understand the mentality as it feels like the championship window for Philadelphia is quickly closing here but it will be interesting to see if this injury gets worst or if this will have a long term impact to Joel’s NBA career

  • Western Conference Playoff Notebook

    Western Conference Playoff Notebook

    The NBA’s Western Conference Playoffs have been fascinating. To date, all series have played 2 games. As each series shifts cities, let’s take a look at some of the most important stories so far.

    The High Octane Warriors

    There was some concern that Steph Curry wouldn’t be healthy for the postseason. Through 2 games, Steph has come off the bench but it has not mattered. The Golden State Warriors have thoroughly embarrassed the Denver Nuggets. 

    In our preview, we talked about Denver being able to defend in space being a key to the series. A lot of that involved targeting Nikola Jokic. The reigning MVP is an improved defender, but when you can repeatedly put him in pick and roll every action, you’re bound to find cracks.

    For example, The Warriors are great at using other teams’ inclination to ignore Green on the perimeter against them. Jeff Green turns his back on Draymond, pick and roll with Jokic in the action, slow rotation and Draymond gets an easy dunk.

    Golden State has used Draymond at center in a lineup with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Jordan Poole, and Andrew Wiggins for 11 minutes in the first two games. They are a +29 on the court. Draymond has shut down Jokic 1 on 1 and has made it extremely hard for Denver to get anything done offensively.

    The Nuggets have yet to play a home game but it does feel like a series that won’t be long. Expect Denver’s best effort in Game 3 but that may not be enough the way Golden State is playing. They are systematically breaking down Denver and you hope they will respond with the requisite effort.

    The Big Injuries

    With Phoenix Suns star guard Devin Booker now out with a strained hamstring, there are two big injuries looming over the West playoffs. Booker’s hammy joins Luka Doncic’s calf, which has the Dallas Mavericks in a dog fight with the Utah Jazz. Both Suns/Pelicans and Mavericks/Jazz are tied at a game apiece but feel like different series.

    It’s been the same song for the Utah Jazz. Chemistry issues, defensive breakdowns at the point of attack and rough the fourth quarter in Game 2 have them asking the same questions. Should they keep Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert together? Why are they struggling this much? It’s 1-1 and they’re not the team with home court and yet it feels like they’re down.

    With Luka Doncic now listed as questionable for Game 3, his sudden inclusion into the series might be able to tip the scales for Dallas. They’ve played admirably so far, getting a 41-point performance from guard Jalen Brunson

    After only scoring 34 points in the 1st half of Game 1, it feels like the New Orleans Pelicans have found their game. Brandon Ingram got it going in Game 2(37 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists) and their supporting cast stepped up. Injuries do happen, but you still have to take advantage and that’s what New Orleans did. Now they have a shot to turn this series into something real competitive with their 125-114 victory.

    With Booker set to miss at least the next two games, a lot more will be placed on Chris Paul. CP3 had the great fourth quarter in Game 1, but he’s going to need more help. Center Deandre Ayton is going to have to assert himself more in Booker’s absence. The Suns are more than capable of winning this series, but now it feels like they have less of a margin for error.

    Tweaks and Adjustments

    After the Minnesota Timberwolves were so successful in Game 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies, there needed to be a change. Head coach Taylor Jenkins made that adjustment, only playing center Steven Adams 3 minutes. Wolves center Karl Anthony Towns had his way with Adams in Game 1 and after Adams picked up two immediate fouls we never saw him again.

    The Grizzlies as good as Ja Morant, but are also defined by their deep roster. Jaren Jackson Jr. switched onto Towns and was able to have an impact defensively. Xavier Tillman came off the bench with 13 points and 7 boards in 21 minutes. It didn’t help that Towns was in foul trouble but it was a great effort from the Grizzlies to adjust.

    Going into Game 3, we’ll see if the Wolves can get D’Angelo Russell going and regain control. This is an interesting spot for Memphis being a team not big on playoff experience, and same for Minnesota as well. The West continues to shift, and we’ll find out who comes out when the smoke is cleared.