Head-to-Head: NBA Playoff Picture After Two Games – Who’s in Control?
NBA Playoffs: Power Balance Tipped After Second Round Opener
Cavaliers vs Pacers: Home Advantage Reversed
The second-round NBA playoff series started with a twist. The underdog Indiana Pacers snatched the home-court advantage after two games on the road, prevailing 2-0 over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“You must win.” This is the playoff mantra, but the Cavs didn’t need to win in the third game. They just needed to tie the series, which they’ve accomplished.
– 247sports.news correspondent
The Cavaliers, despite a 2-0 deficit, remain confident. Cleveland’s injury issues are temporary, and they believe the longer the series, the better for them.
The Pacers, meanwhile, are aiming to avoid a sweep. Winning the fourth game in Indiana would be vital for their hope of further progression.
Knicks vs Celtics: Battle for the East
The other Eastern Conference series, New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics, is tied 1-1. Both teams have a chance to take control with two home games upcoming.
The Celtics, despite leading the series, need a win in Madison Square Garden to assert their dominance. They’ve been here before and believe they can close out the series if it gets to that point.
For the Knicks, the next two games are crucial. They can’t afford to lose both and find themselves in an uphill battle for the rest of the series.
Nuggets vs Thunder: West’s Favoriteson the Brink
The Western Conference series also begin with a 1-1 tie. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets each have a chance to take control with two home games.
The Thunder areтуруе that they can win one of the two upcoming games and stay in the hunt for the title. The Nuggets, on the other hand, are aware that sweeping their opponents at home would be ideal but winning one game is crucial.
Warriors vs Timberwolves: Can the Wolves Upset the Dubs?
The final series, featuring the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves, is also all tied up. Both teams have a shot at taking the lead in the upcoming games.
The Timberwolves are eager to win one of the next two games in San Francisco to regain their confidence and stay in the series. The Warriors, meanwhile, with Stephen Curry’s health still uncertain, are looking to extend the series to gain advantage.
Did You Know?
Surprisingly, this is the first time in NBA playoff history that four series are tied 1-1 after the first two games.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the injuries. Teams that remain healthy have a significant advantage in the postseason.
FAQs
- Who are the current favorites to win it all? The Warriors, Celtics, and Nuggets are the favorites to win the championship.
- What’s the best-case scenario for the Cavaliers? The Cavaliers’ best-case scenario is to get healthy, take Games 5 & 6 at home, and potentially reach the NBA Finals.
- Can the Knicks make a comeback? It’s possible, but the Knicks need to win at least two games against the Celtics in Boston.
Final Thoughts
After two thrilling games, every series is still up for grabs. It’s all to play for as we head into Games 3 and 4. Don’t miss a moment of the action!
Who do you think will take control in the NBA Playoffs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!