NBA: Way-too-early bold pre-season playoff predictions for the 2023-24 season

NBA Jayson Tatum (Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Jayson Tatum (Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports)
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Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee Bucks trio (Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports)

Eastern Conference Finals predictions

In the Eastern Conference Finals, I could very much see the matchup between the two teams that almost everyone will be rooting for. Looking at the landscape of the East, it would be extremely surprising if a team got in the way of the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks meeting in the conference finals. Unless they’re stuck on the same side of the bracket, or a team like the Miami Heat making another magical run, I think it’s pretty safe to say that the Bucks and Celtics are likely to meet in the conference finals. Of course, assuming there are no freak injuries.

If Damian Lillard clicks quickly with Giannis Antetokounmpo, it will be a sight to see. I’m concerned they may not be deep enough to compete with the loaded Celtics in a seven-game playoff series.

Interestingly, it could come down to this when deciding between the Celtics and Bucks – which team makes the better NBA Trade Deadline addition. Looking at what they could offer via trade at the deadline, I think there’s a better chance Boston is able to solidify some of their weaknesses heading into the playoffs than the Bucks.

That may end up being the ultimate difference between the two teams.

Boston Celtics over Milwaukee Bucks in 6 games