2018 NBA Playoffs: Which juggernaut is coming out the West?

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OAKLAND, CA – APRIL 14: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors shoots over Dejounte Murray #5 of the San Antonio Spurs in the first quarter during Game One of the first round of the 2018 NBA Playoff at ORACLE Arena on April 14, 2018 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 Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Crunch time

Edge: Golden State Warriors

When there are only five minutes left in a tied game in the postseason, it goes without saying that each coach is going to deploy their most talented roster. The Rockets will have Chris Paul, Eric Gordon, Clint Capela, James Harden and a fifth player who is likely having a great night or matches up well against the opponent or can create disruption.

This is a deadly lineup boasting incredible passing, an unstoppable pick and roll combination, and lights out three-point shooting.

The Warriors would be rolling out their newest version of their feared Death Lineup – Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green and Andre Iguodala. There is no weak link here. When Iguodala is your least skilled player, it stands to reason the lineup is as good as any in the league.

This lineup has impeccable ball movement, three scorers who can create their shot at will, superior 3-point shooting and four stand out defenders. With these rosters facing one another with the game on the line, there are just too many weapons on offense that will make the Rockets pay and enough defenders to get the necessary stops to come away with the W.

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2018 NBA Champions

Prediction: Golden State Warriors

The winner of this series will be the eventual champions. With the Warriors edging out the Rockets in four of the seven categories, they will be hoisting up a third banner in four years, while getting their first back to back titles in June.