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2018 NBA Playoffs: First-round schedule, initial thoughts on each series

By Michael Saenz

OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 17: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors shows off his championship ring before their game against the Houston Rockets at ORACLE Arena on October 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 17: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors shows off his championship ring before their game against the Houston Rockets at ORACLE Arena on October 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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Houston Rockets (1) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (8)

Season Series: 4-0, Rockets

Game 1: Sun. April 15 – Minnesota at Houston, 9 p.m., TNT
Game 2: Wed. April 18 – Minnesota at Houston, 9:30 p.m., TNT
Game 3: Sat. April 21 – Houston at Minnesota, 7:30 p.m., ESPN
Game 4: Mon. April 23 – Houston at Minnesota, 8 p.m.,TNT
*Game 5: Wed. April 25 – Minnesota at Houston, TBD
*Game 6: Fri. April 27 – Houston at Minnesota, TBD
*Game 7: Sun. April 29 – Minnesota at Houston, TBD

This is an interesting first-round matchup, to say the least. It’s actually my favorite pairing of all the Western Conference series. With that said, it’s hard not seeing the Rockets having their way with Minnesota’s, at times, lackluster defense.

During the regular season, the Rockets dominated the Wolves. Has much changed? Well, if you’re looking for something, Houston will be forced to play without Mbah a Moute for at least the first-round, if not more.

This injury will hurt their depth, and could give the Wolves a puncher’s chance if a few other things fall their way. Make no mistake, the Wolves may have the talent on the roster but this is still very much a traditional 1-8 pairing.