Toronto Raptors
The Raptors halted their game 1 curse with a dominant win to open this series. Kawhi Leonard was absolutely phenomenal in this one, dropping 45 points and 11 boards on 16/23 shooting. Pascal Siakam was an excellent second option, going for 29 points and 7 boards of his own on 12/15 shooting. Toronto will need more well-rounded contributions in game 2, with no-one else reaching double figures.
Philadelphia 76ers
It was a disastrous game 1 for Philly, who looked thoroughly outclassed in this matchup. Ben Simmons was the only Sixer who could score somewhat efficiently, dropping 14 points and 9 boards on 7/8 from the field. Tobias Harris also put up some solid counting stats, going for 14 points, 15 boards, and 6 assists. Philly will need a better effort from Joel Embiid, who was stonewalled by Marc Gasol to the tune of 5-18 from the field.
Prediction: Under 221
While I would lean towards the Raptors here, the Sixers have been very strong after a loss this season. Aside from Leonard and Siakam, pretty much everyone had difficulties scoring last time out. I could see another relatively low-scoring and nervy affair here, particularly if Embiid is still limited by injury. With a total set at 221, I ultimately feel as though there is still strong value on the under.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets did what they needed to do in game 7, pulling off a gritty win to defeat the Spurs. Nikola Jokic continues to be the star man, dropping 21 points, 15 boards, and 10 assists in the win. Jamal Murray also had a solid game, pouring in 23 points and making some key buckets down the stretch. Denver will still need better contributions from the rest of their lineup, with no-one else scoring in double figures.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers enjoyed a nice week off after what was an epic series win over OKC last time out. Damian Lillard was definitely the key man, dropping an outstanding 50 points, including an epic game-winner to seal the series. Mo Harkless also stepped up big time, adding 17 points and 7 boards of his own. Center Enes Kanter had an impressive double-double, however he remains an injury doubt for this one.
Prediction: Nuggets -4
This is a relatively tough game to call but I’ll lean with Denver based on their strong home form. Both of these sides have been fantastic as a home favourite this season and have struggled somewhat on the road. I think Denver is in the better rhythm of the two sides and could get out to a fast start here. Jokic has a huge matchup advantage over Enes Kanter and should be able to dominate this series.