2018 NBA Playoffs: Ranking the first-round matchups

5 of 8

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 10: Anthony Davis #23 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts against the Brooklyn Nets in the first quarter during their game at Barclays Center on February 10, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. 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 Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

4. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Portland Trail Blazers

Season Series: 2-2

Neither of these teams are true contenders, but they are very evenly matched. This will make for a highly competitive series that could easily go six or seven games. This series will be a terrific showcase for Damian Lillard and Anthony Davis, who have both taken their games to another level this year.

We know that the stars are going to show up big for their respective teams so the contributions from each teams’ supporting cast will be one of the crucial factors that decide this one.

On the surface, this may seem like an easy series to predict but it wouldn’t be surprising to see this one go either way.

Prediction: Blazers in 7