2013 NBA Playoff Western Conference Predictions: First Round

Here is an order of the least competitive games in the 2013 NBA Playoff Western Conference First Round to most.

(3) Denver Nuggets vs (6) Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors may have the 3 point record breaker. However, the Nuggets are one of the top scorers in the NBA. The Nuggets have a great home team record (38-3). They also have home team advantage.

(2) San Antonio Spurs vs (7) Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers have struggled all year. However, the Spurs may without Manu Ginobili the first round. Still, Tim Duncan and Tiago Splitter should be too much for Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol, and as seen last year, the Spurs are perfectly capable of dominating beyond the arc.  Welcome back, Tracy McGrady!

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs (8) Houston Rockets

The Rockets are one of the best at transition offense and shooting the 3. Although defense may be a concern and jumpers did not go in that consistently the last couple of months, the Oklahoma City Thunder have Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook who should be ready along with the rest of the team coming this first round.

(4) Los Angeles Clippers vs (5) Memphis Grizzlies

A rematch of last year’s 4th and 5th seed first round battle with the seeds and home court advantage reversed.