I have a feeling PHX will be knocking some people out for sure. I expect them to be in the WCF. Vs. us or the Warriors.
I don't think Minnesota or OKC are good enough and, therefore, the Lakers and Pelicans will grab either of the final two spots. I think the Lakers beat the Pelicans to send the Pels to a game against either Minnesota or OKC, so the Lakers jump up to 7, while the Pelicans grab that 8th seed.
If I had to make a prediction right now, I think this is how the final playoff seedings will end up looking...
1. Denver Vs 8. New Orleans
4. Phoenix Vs 5. LAC
2. Memphis Vs 7. LAL
3. Sacramento Vs 6. Golden State Warriors
My wish is for the Warriors and Clippers to swap, so we are matched up against the Clippers in the first round.
HOWEVER, I also believe that we are a better team THIS SEASON than the Warriors, and should still manage to take care of them if we see them in round 1.
I also don't think the Lakers are going to make much noise in round one, especially if they go up against the Grizzlies. As a matter of fact, I see the top 4 seeds all advancing to round 2, regardless of 1st round matchups.
Looking at 2nd round matchups...
1. Denver Vs 4. Phoenix
2. Memphis Vs 3. Sacramento
Boy, that 1 Vs 4 matchup is going to be a dandy!!! That series SHOULD go the distance, and I will be very perfectly honest with you, I don't even know if there is a clear-cut favorite to win that series. My guess is that home court advantage will be the deciding factor, and the Nuggets will advance.
2 Vs 3...Memphis is a tough out...I will be honest with you here - matchups against that team scare the crap out of me. They're just a solid basketball team. It would essentially take a PERFECT series for the Kings to advance, and even then, I don't even think we'd sweep. With that being said, I don't see an easy out here, so I will have to go with the Grizzlies, and wouldn't be surprised if we're ousted in 5 games, maybe 6.
1. Denver Vs. 2. Memphis...Home court advantage decides this one, and the Nuggets send the Grizzlies home packing.
Note: IF the Kings can take care of business in round 2, my prediction instantly changes. If the Kings can take care of a team like the Grizzlies, then there is absolutely NO REASON why we can't do the same against the Nuggets.