NBA Playoffs | Western Conf | Rd 1 | (4) L.A. Clippers vs (5) Memphis

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This match up was one of the most entertaining match ups in all of last year’s playoffs. It’s a classic offense v. defense match up. Behind the lead of Chris Paul, the Clippers rallied from down 20+ points to show what they’re capable of.

Without Rudy Gay, everyone assumed the Grizzlies chances had essentially been squashed. They surprised everyone with their play down the stretch and find themselves with one of the top scoring defenses in the league.

Keys to Victory – Turnovers
The Grizzlies play phenomenal defense. But surprisingly, the L.A. Clippers are first in the NBA in forcing turnovers. If they can get easy buckets against a strong defense in Memphis, they have a great chance to win the series.

X-Factor – Jamal Crawford
Crawford is an easy pick for the X-Factor as he’s a starter quality player that comes off of the bench. It’s tough to account for such a talent in your second string rotation.

Prediction – L.A. Clippers in 6
With Chris Paul’s hyper-competitive spirit and the overall improvement of the Clippers game, I can’t imagine them falling to a team that I feel has taken a step back 1 year later.

NBA Playoffs | Eastern Conf | Rd 1 | (4) Brooklyn vs (5) Chicago

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All things considered, the Bulls have had a phenomenal season. Injuries have hindered their chances to give them any real shot at a title. With the most recent development of Joakim Noah potentially being unavailable for round 1, it puts the Bulls in an even more precarious spot.

Brooklyn started the season hot, cooled off, and started peaking again at the right time. With Jay-Z sitting court side for the NBA playoffs, it should be an electric atmosphere in the Barclays Center.

Keys to Victory – Dominating the Paint

The one thing that Chicago has been able to hang its hat on was its defense and rebounding abilities down low. Brooklyn takes those advantages away from them with their size. They have big guards talented big men as well.

X-Factor – Derrick Rose

If D. Rose decides to return, the adrenaline and energy alone will carry the Bulls past round 1. If not, you’re left with Nate Robinson, captain of the irrational confidence all-stars (to quote Bill Simmons) and Capt. Kick Hinrich to defend a back court of Deron Williams and Joe Johnson.

Prediction – Brooklyn Nets in 7

I agree with Michael Wilbon that it's best Rose doesn't make his anticipated return this season. There's too much to lose, and if he doesn't feel he's ready, there's no use forcing it. Considering I don't think Derrick Rose will return to the court, I think Brooklyn will take this series in the 7th game -- where home court advantage matters.

NBA Playoffs | Western Conf | Rd 1 | (3) Denver vs (6) Golden State

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In discussing the potential of this match up with a co-worker, he joked that the average score for this series would be around 145-150. I actually wouldn't be surprised if it did indeed look something like that. It’ll be fast and exciting and there will be no defense.

Keys to Victory – Rebounding & Defense (what?)
That being said, the team that is able to put together the most stretches of good defense and limit second chance opportunities for the other team will put themselves in the best position to win.

X-Factor – Stephen Curry
Many people forget how big of a BIG TIME player Stephen Curry was back at Davidson because we haven’t seen him in a playoff atmosphere since college.  With the absence of a real superstar from the opposition, his impact will be multiplied.

Prediction – Golden State in 6
As I told a friend the other day, stars shine the brightest in the playoffs. Unfortunately, the Nuggets don’t have that one guy to count on down the stretch.

NBA Playoffs | Eastern Conf | Rd 1 | (2) New York vs (7) Boston

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It would be understatement to say that the city of Boston has had a rough week. Although in the end, the bad guys were apprehended and now we can begin the healing process. I’m relieved for everyone that was impacted. In the same vein – within significantly less dire circumstances – the Boston Celtics had a rough season. Hampered by injuries throughout, Boston never truly found its stride.

New York on the other hand found a rhythm once they lost one of their best assets in Amare Stoudemire for the season. After reeling off a 13-game win streak down the stretch and Carmelo Anthony wrapping up his first ever scoring title, the Knicks enter the playoffs clicking on all cylinders.

Keys to Victory – 3 Point Shooting
The winner of this series will go to the team that can best cover and knock down the 3-pt shot.

X-Factor – Tyson Chandler
One of Tyson’s greatest strengths is his ability to tap out offensive rebounds and create second shot opportunities for his team. In a series where 3-pt shooting will be paramount, I think he’ll have a profound impact.

Prediction – New York Knicks in 7
The Celtics, as they always do, will give a valiant effort. Although, I think it falls short versus Carmelo and co. It might be time to close this chapter in Boston Celtics history.