Boston vs Indiana
Boston, as a formidable No. 3 seed, emerged triumphant in the group stage, securing their spot by crushing the Bulls and dashing Orlando's hopes. They now face the Pacers, who clinched a home game after beating the 76ers and Cavs. Indiana, with a shaky home record, faces Boston after challenging matchups in Miami. Despite Indiana's high-scoring offense, their defense struggles, much like the Wizards. In their prior encounter, Boston dominated with a 155-104 win, albeit against a depleted Pacers' lineup. Indiana's key players, Haliburton and forwards Jackson and Smith, face injury concerns. Boston aims to overcome their own injury woes, hoping Porzingis returns. While historically dominant against the Pacers, Boston faced setbacks in recent encounters, making this upcoming clash uncertain.
Boston get up and advance to the next round!
Pelicans vs Kings
Sacramento pulled off a stunning comeback against the Warriors, securing home advantage against New Orleans in the upcoming quarterfinal. Despite a recent loss to the Clippers, they've been strong at home. However, they face a tough test against the Nuggets. New Orleans, buoyed by McCollum's return, enters the matchup healthy but fatigued from a busy schedule. The Kings mustn't underestimate the Pelicans, having lost recent games in New Orleans, where Valanciunas and Williamson shined. Last season, Sacramento won two out of three meetings, including a convincing home victory.
The Kings will be too dominant and win rather comfortably.
Knicks vs Bucks
The Bucks, one of the remaining recent NBA champions, aim to incorporate Damian Lillard. The Knicks, with the least favorable odds, performed well in East group play despite a loss to Milwaukee. They've been competitive, covering the spread in their previous encounter with the Bucks. The Bucks, eyeing a strong run of wins, face the Knicks after facing the Bulls and Hawks. While historically dominant, the Bucks have had close recent matchups with the Knicks. Health could favor the Knicks, considering Milwaukee's sidelined reserves, Crowder and Connaughton.
The Bucks will advance, but don’t write the Knicks off, they are a sneaky chance!
Suns vs. Lakers
The Suns and Lakers faced off earlier in a crucial Group A game, with LeBron James leading the Lakers to victory despite Kevin Durant's strong performance and the absence of Devin Booker due to injury. In the upcoming Dec. 5 matchup, Bradley Beal remains sidelined for the Lakers due to back issues, while Booker's ankle sprain from a recent game might impact his availability. The Suns have been strong on the road but face tough games against Denver and Memphis before the Lakers clash. Previous encounters saw Booker and Beal absent, with the Lakers winning the early-season game. Despite a recent loss to the Raptors, the Lakers rebounded after a rough defeat to the 76ers. Their upcoming games against Oklahoma City and Houston will test them before facing Phoenix. If Booker and Beal are out, Durant won't stand alone, but other players like Nurkic, Gordon, Allen, Little, and Goodwin could play expanded roles for Phoenix.
The Suns’ injuries will be too much and the Lakers will come over the top and win!
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