2024 NBA Play-In Prediction Round 1
Eastern Conference Play-in
76ers vs Heat
The 76ers began the season with genuine championship aspirations, carried by Embiid's stellar performances. However, his injury setback has hindered their full potential, despite the impressive strides made by Tyrese Maxey. While they've shown improvement since Embiid's return, lingering concerns persist due to the duration of his absence. It feels like the Heat are here every year, and every year they end up in the finals or close to it. Spo is probably the best coach in the league, even given the regular season the Heat had. His ability to run circles around the other teams coach continuously proves to be one of if not the main reason the Heat have had such success in their recent playoff runs. Another crucial factor lies in Jimmy Butler's playoff prowess. Continuously, he has demonstrated an ability to raise his game when the stakes are highest, making him a force to be reckoned with. Along with Butler, Bam Adebayo's consistent impact on both the offensive and defensive side further solidifies the Heat's foundation. The return of a healthy Tyler Herro in the playoffs as well as the mid-season addition of Terry Rozier adds another dimension to Miami, potentially propelling them into contention once more. Had Embiid been healthy we may have a different outlook.
Our Pick: Heat
Bulls vs Hawks
The Hawks can present a challenge for any opponent, particularly with Trae Young's ability to ignite on any given night, causing headaches for many teams. In contrast, the Bulls lack the same level of unpredictability. While Demar Derozan shines, his prowess alone isn't sufficient to overcome the Hawks in this matchup. The continued absence of Zach Lavine further exacerbates the Bulls' struggles, although the team's collective performance also falls short of expectations. Conversely, the Hawks may feel the absence of Jalen Johnson, whose emergence as a key contributor has been a pleasant surprise this season, garnering consideration for the Most Improved Player of the Year Award. The way I look at this game is if the Bulls can contain Trae they should be able to win, but if not they might be in for a long night.
Our Pick: Hawks
Western Conference Play-in
Pelicans vs Lakers
Possibly the hardest play in the game to predict: the youth of the Pelicans versus the experience of the Lakers. These teams squared off just days ago, yet tonight's encounter marks their first meeting with genuine stakes since the Anthony Davis trade. Both AD and Brandon Ingram are poised to deliver standout performances against their former teams, setting the stage for an exhilarating contest. D'Angelo Russell's consistency in the latter half of the year adds yet another offensive threat for opponents to contend with. However, the Pelicans boast a deep roster, with three guys who can score at a top level and a physical frontcourt which could cause problems for the Lakers. Also, the thought of the first In-Season Tournament Champions not making the playoffs is funny to me. That being said, I am leaning towards the Lakers for one reason and one reason only: Despite his age, LeBron is LeBron.
Our Pick: Lakers
Kings vs Warriors
One of the simpler play-in games, the Warriors have simply not been good, by any metric. Steph Curry on the other hand, is a revelation. A month ago, the Kings would have been the easiest pick of the play in. But now, with injuries to Malik Monk and Kevin Huerter, this game becomes increasingly interesting. Aside from the Kings injuries, there are two compelling storylines leading into this game. Firstly the battle of point guards. Many fans would lead you to believe the gap between Curry and Fox is monumental, but they would be surprised to hear that Fox leads Curry in almost every statistical category, albeit a minimal difference. The Quickness of Fox, coupled with the defensive tenacity of a player like Davion Mitchell will make the off ball movement of Curry much more difficult to capitalize on. The second story line follows Domantas Sabonis and Draymond Green. Two of the best playmaking forwards in the league, each playing with an electric guard. Not to mention we are a year removed from Draymond Green attempting to collapse Domantis Sabonis chest. Its gonna be a fun game, and I wish we got another 6 after it. Had the Kings stayed healthy, I would lean their way, but they didn't and so I think Curry is on his way to the playoffs yet again.
Our Pick: Warriors