The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
EASTERN CONFERENCE
CELTICS vs. BULLS
Season series: Split, 2-2. Storyline: It’s Boston’s first time as the No. 1 seed in the East since 2008 — which was also the last time the Celtics hoisted the Larry O’Brien Trophy to end the season. And the Bulls, who seemed seriously dysfunctional at times this season, now get new life and a chance to enjoy Dwyane Wade’s playoff savvy.
Key matchup: Isaiah Thomas vs. Rajon Rondo. Thomas got his points in the regular season (averaging 24.8 vs. the Bulls), but the matchup will be crucial between the new Celtics star and the last point guard to take the Celtics to a title. Game 1: Sunday at Boston.
Prediction: Celtics in 6.
RAPTORS vs. BUCKS
Season series: Raptors, 3-1. Storyline: Toronto reached the East finals last season, have Kyle Lowry back from a second-half wrist injury and a likely All-NBA performer in DeMar DeRozan. They know what the playoffs lights are like. Milwaukee All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo is going to get his first taste of the postseason, and he’ll have to adjust quickly. Key matchup: Who guards Antetokounmpo? Probably a handful of Raptors will be involved, and that’s the matchup to watch. If the Greek Freak gets on a roll, Toronto could have issues. Contain him, and the Raptors shouldn’t have much problem getting to the second round. Game 1: Today at Toronto. Prediction: Raptors in 6.
CAVALIERS vs. PACERS
Season series: Cavaliers, 3-1. Storyline: LeBron James starts his bid for a seventh consecutive trip to the NBA Finals and will meet the Pacers in the playoffs for the fourth time in that span. The defending champions went 23-23 in their last 46 games, tied for the 15th-best record during that stretch. Can they flip the switch, or does Indiana bask in playing with nothing to lose?
Key matchup: James vs. Paul George. They may not guard each other much, but it’s no secret Indiana’s most logical path to an upset is for George to get hot and stay hot. He’ll likely have to match James’ production for the Pacers to have a real chance. Game 1: Today at Cleveland.
Prediction: Cavaliers in 5.
WIZARDS vs. HAWKS
Season series: Wizards, 3-1. Storyline: Washington was a great comeback story this season, shaking off a 2-8 start like it never happened and putting together the best regular season for the franchise in nearly 40 years. Atlanta is looking for a third consecutive trip to the second round and finished the season on an uptick after a seven-game slide in March.
Key matchup: How the Wizards guard Dwight Howard. Washington knows it won’t have Ian Mahinmi to start the series because of a strained calf, and his 6-foot11 frame will be sorely missed. Game 1: Sunday at Washington.
Prediction: Wizards in 7.