NBA Playoffs | Eastern Conf | Rd 1 | (1) Miami vs (8) Milwaukee

Photo Courtesy: <www.bleacherreport.com>

Brandon Jennings said he wants the Heat in round 1. Monta Ellis believes he is the same caliber player as Dwyane Wade. Many might disagree, but the Bucks have actually played the Heat really well this season.

However, in the playoffs there is a totally different level of play. Whether or not the rest of the Bucks are equally as confident is yet to be seen. Miami is hungry and prepared for the playoffs and a run at a second championship. It’s really all they've been playing for all season long.

Keys to Victory – Back Court Play 
Monta Ellis and Brandon Jennings is certainly a formidable back court. Chalmers / Wade & Allen / Wade (to close games), are not particularly easy match ups either. The guards will dictate the pace of the game, and pace will be important. If Ellis / Jennings can get hot, they can at the very least make things interesting.

X-Factor – Defense
If it’s one thing Miami excels at, it’s defense. The Milwaukee Bucks – not so much.

Prediction – Miami Heat in 4
Monta Ellis might think he’s on the same tier as the likes of Dwyane Wade, but I think the swiftness with which this series ends will remind him that he isn't.