With the first round of the NBA Playoffs about to commence, there’s no better time than now to make official predictions. Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson recently took to social media and did just that.
“In the East—there are two exciting matchups!” Johnson wrote. “First, the three-seed New York Knicks vs. six-seed Detroit Pistons in what will be a physical 7-game series (I think), with the Knicks winning. I can’t wait to see Jalen Brunson vs. Cade Cunningham.”
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Johnson continued, predicting that the Pacers and and Celtics will each take care of business.
“Second, the Pacers and Bucks played against each other in the Playoffs last season and know each other very well. The Pacers won that series 4-2. Without Lillard, I’m picking the Pacers to win the series. I’m also picking the Celtics over the Magic for their series. I want to say sweep, but I think the Magic may squeeze out one win.”
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Johnson’s predictions for the Western Conference matchups seemed a little less certain.
“I’m thinking Warriors in 7,” Johnson posted. “I’m scared for my Lakers because the game’s most exciting player, superstar Anthony Edwards, is a matchup problem…I’m picking my Lakers in 6, led by superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic.”
He didn’t make a specific pick for the series between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers, though he seemed to lean towards Denver.
“Nikola Jokic will continue his domination over the Clippers but he needs plenty of help from Playoff Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon. They to step up in order for the Nuggets to have any chance of winning…James Harden has played as well as any guard in the league this season. Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell should have been All Stars this year and if they play well. the Clippers should win!”
With just two more playoff spots remaining for the play-in teams to secure, teams are now doing their own scouting in preparation for a title chase.
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
