GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS 4, MILWAUKEE BUCKS 2
With Lebron James finally out of the East and missing the playoffs for the first time in 13 seasons, the Eastern Conference is up for anybody’s taking this year. Despite an early exit in the playoffs last year, the Milwaukee Bucks have transformed their roster with new player acquisitions and significant player development, resulting in their ability to obtain the best record in the NBA. Although the Bucks may be missing Malcolm Brogdon for the first few weeks of the playoffs, Giannis Antetokounmpo and his strong supporting cast of Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, and Eric Bledsoe are still very formidable.
The two-time defending champion Golden State Warriors are still the favorites to win the West despite a rocky regular season. Even without Demarcus Cousins, the Warriors will still have one of the most potent offenses and defenses in the league. The only significant weakness of the Warriors is their bench players, but the strength of the Warriors’ stars should be able to overcome those deficiencies, allowing them to reach the Finals once again. The Warriors, having more talent and playoff experience than the Bucks, should be able to win the NBA championship in a six-game series.