With the NBA playoffs already in full swing, the Clarion decided it was time to make some predictions. But after we looked back at our underwhelming preseason picks, we decided to get some help from a couple guys that actually play the sport. Here is a preview of what we think is going to transpire:
Kevin Vest—2010 Second Team All-OCCAC
Team no one wants to play — Oklahoma City Thunder
I’m picking the Thunder because they’re very young and talented, and with the league’s leading scorer in Kevin Durant anything is possible.
Breakout player — Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is a proven scorer that will show his winning attitude and leadership ability in the playoffs.
Finals Prediction — Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers
It’s the matchup that everyone wants to see: Kobe vs. LeBron. It would be the most entertaining finals as well as the most likely.
Finals MVP — LeBron James
LeBron can do anything he wants on the court. He gets his teammates involved early and takes over the game late. He is also a proven winner.
Joseph Stueve — the Clarion Editor
Team no one wants to play — San Antonio Spurs
Over the last month, the Spurs have knocked off the Lakers, Celtics, Nuggets and Thunder on the road and beat Orlando and Cleveland at home.
Breakout player — Russell Westbrook
Oklahoma City has a tough test ahead against Los Angeles, but Westbrook shouldn’t have a hard time making Lakers point guard Derek Fisher look like an old man.
Finals prediction — Cleveland Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs
A rematch of the 2007 NBA Finals, Cavs forward LeBron James will get his redemption and his first ring.
Finals MVP — LeBron James
James is an unstoppable force and nothing will stand in the way of him and the Finals MVP award.
British Alexander—2010 First Team All-OCCAC
Team no one wants to play — Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks have a veteran team full of scorers and athletes. I think that if they get hot no one will stop them.
Breakout player — Carmelo Anthony
I think Anthony will break out because he has that killer instinct and is always looking to score and take over.
Finals Prediction — Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks
Cleveland will win it in six games.
Finals MVP — LeBron James
You can’t go against James if Cleveland makes it to the finals.
Samuel Huist — 6-foot-5 and can’t dunk
Team no one wants to play — Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are far and away the most talented team in the playoffs and with Andrew Bynum back their defense should be strong.
Breakout player — Lamarcus Aldridge
With guard Brandon Roy most likely out for the playoffs, the pressure is on Aldridge to pick up his scoring and I don’t think that will be a problem with how the Western Conference plays defense.
Finals Prediction — Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers
I expect a rematch of last year’s finals with the same outcome, Lakers in five. Orlando has no answer for Kobe.
Finals MVP — Kobe Bryant
The best player in the league will continue adding to his legacy with his second straight finals MVP award.