Episode 37: NBA Playoff Preview: The Ridiculous East

When the Celtics play the Knicks, massive egos will collide. None bigger than Kevin Garnett and Amare Stoudemire. Whoever wins the matchup between two of the biggest trash-talkers in the NBA may determine who advances. No series has more star power or history, but no series has more questions. In the end, Boston's defense will once again transform into a different monster (as if already being the No. 1 defense in the NBA isn't monstrous enough). Meanwhile, Amare and Melo aren't crafty enough to get KG and Paul Pierce in foul trouble. Some analysts have the Sixers giving the Heat a run. Well, there's gonna be plenty of running between these two fast-break teams, but Miami will do it better. Philly has lost all three meetings to Miami this season by nine points or more. Plus, the Heat are more than capable of beating the 76ers even if Dwyane Wade, LeBron James or Chris Bosh is held in check. In my opinion, I think this will be the only first-round sweep in either conference as the Heat will send a message to the Celtics, who they will likely face in the second round. The series between the Magic and Hawks will be the most competitive of all the first rounders in the East. This is a great matchup for the Hawks, who contrary to popular belief, have found success through defense, not offense. They've also found success against Orlando, winning the last three meetings. However, the return of J.J. Redick will bolster the Magic bench, which will be the difference in a series that will go the distance. The Bulls may have an easy time with the Pacers. However, Indiana is a young team with tons of talent. Much like the Grizzlies, the Pacers can benefit from making things competitive against a top-seeded team. One aspect of this series may reveal just how far the Bulls can actually go in the postseason: The matchup at small forward between Luol Deng and Danny Granger. Deng is the X-factor for the Bulls, and he'll need to play at a higher level if Chicago is to meet its full potential. Photo from boston.cbslocal.com