Conference semifinals
Western Conference
(1) Los Angeles Lakers beat Oklahoma City Thunder (4) 4-3
Chris Paul returned to set up a coveted battle of the Banana Boat. The Lakers jumped out to a
3-0 lead and seemed poised to sweep back-to-back rounds. OKC then turned around and nearly
created the most epic comeback in sports history. LeBron James would not have that, however,
as he led the second round in points (28.8) and assist (10.3) yet again.
(6) Dallas Mavericks beat LA Clippers (2) 4-3
Are you kidding me?! Dallas does it again and knocks off the pre-season title favorites! In an absolutely enthralling series, the Clippers and Mavericks alternated wins setting up a Game 7 in the Staples Center. Luka showed he is now ready for the spotlight by dropping 32 along with a 30-14 effort from Kristaps Porzingis as well.
Eastern Conference
(1) Milwaukee Bucks sweep Philadelphia 76ers (4) 4-0
No slow start for Milwaukee here. They continued their hot-streak by completely dismantling Philly in four short games. The closest game was decided by 11 points. Perhaps it’s back to the
drawing board for the 76ers as a franchise.
(3) Boston Celtics beat Toronto Raptors (2) 4-3
No Gordon Hayward = no problem for Boston this series. We were blessed to have three Game 7’s in this second round, and this particular series was one for the ages. Siakam returned in full force along with a tremendous series by Kyle Lowry, but it simply wasn’t enough to top the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and his 31 points in Game 7.