Boston Celtics
The Celtics return home 1-1 after what was an atrocious 2nd half in game 2. Kyrie Irving had one of the worst playoff games of his storied career, going just 4/18 from the field en route to 9 points. Boston also needs much more production from Jayson Tatum, who was held to a measly 5 points on 2/10 shooting. Al Horford and Marcus Morris did look somewhat solid in the frontcourt, combining for 32 points and 15 boards.
Milwaukee Bucks
It was a much better game 2 from the Bucks, who got very well-rounded contributions from their starters. Giannis led the way as per usual, putting 29 points to go with 9 boards and 4 assists. Khris Middleton continues to be one of the league’s premier second options, knocking down 7 3’s en route to 28 points and 7 boards. Eric Bledsoe rounded out the big 3 nicely, going for an efficient 21 points and 5 assists himself. With Malcolm Brogdon potentially returning for this one, things are definitely looking up in Milwaukee.
Prediction: Celtics -1.5
Despite a horrendous loss in game 2, Boston went into Milwaukee and accomplished what they needed to. I think these are two relatively evenly matched teams and give the Celtics the edge at home in this one. I just can’t see Kyrie having another nightmare game and think Jayson Tatum is also due to break out here. This has all the makings of a classic and I’ll give the edge to the slight home favourite in this one.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers turned things around in game 2 with a very gritty 97-90 road win. This was despite a relatively lacklustre performance from Damian Lillard, who had just 14 points on 5/17 shooting. It was teammate CJ McCollum who picked up the slack, leading the way with 20 points, 6 boards, and 6 assists. Enes Kanter also deserves credit for playing well through injury, backing up his game 1 performance with 15 points, 9 boards, and 2 blocks in this one.
Denver Nuggets
While they battled hard in game 2, shooting just 34% from the field and 20% from 3 was what ultimately cost the Nuggets. Nikola Jokic was again dominant on the interior, putting up 16 points, 14 boards, and 7 assists. Paul Millsap also continues to be a strong presence inside, adding another double-double to go along with 2 blocks and 2 steals. Former NBL legend Torrey Craig also deserves immense credit for playing through a broken nose.
Prediction: Blazers -4
The fact that Portland was able to win so comfortably in game 2 without Dame dominating should spell warning signs for Denver. Portland have been one of the best sides in the NBA at home this season and I can see that continuing here. I expect Dame to have a bounce back game in this one, leading the team in both points and assists. Especially if Denver can’t pick up their shooting, this should be one way traffic as Portland gets the home win and cover.