2023 NBA Play-In Predictions (Round 2)

So far, I'm shooting 50% as far as 2023 Play-In predictions are concerned.  I did foretell that Lebron James and the Lakers, i.e. the NBA's leading man and most-profitable franchise, were going to beat the depleted Timberwolves, which they did (just barely).  And as for the Thunder vs. Pelicans, that was anyone's game, though now I have to admit that Zion Williamson, if he had decided to play, would have probably made a difference.

I also rightfully predicted that the Bulls would best the Raptors.  But what I got wrong with the Hawks vs. Heat is overestimating just how thin Miami's depth actually is.  Like, where's Duncan Robinson?  And why didn't they start Kyle Lowry?  And as for Kevin Love, he was basically a no-show.

BULLS VS. HEAT

And speaking of Miami, I think the Bulls once again have the advantage, even if they're not playing at home.  The Heat's starting lineup against the Hawks the other day consisted of two guys, Gabe Vincent and Max Strus, who I never even heard of like that.  Maybe this time around they'll start Lowry, who scored a game high 33 points against Atlanta, even though he was -12.  I mean, why not?  I don't remember the Heat, since they first came into the NBA, ever being garbage.  But now, the championship window they enjoyed for the last few seasons has passed.  And the Bulls, even though they also disappointed this year, look hungrier.

THUNDER VS. TIMBERWOLVES

Even if the T-wolves fail to make the playoffs, I would still argue that they're one of the better teams in the NBA.  Now that Rudy Gobert is back, logic would dictate that they should be able to handle OKC.  Either way, I believe that both of these teams can give Denver a run for their money.  But if it is the Timberwolves, as I'm predicting, fair and square I wouldn't be overly surprised, even if a couple of key bench players aren't around, if they could beat the Nuggets in a seven-game series.

CONCLUSION

OKC is a young, developing team who I believe is next-up after the Grizzlies.  But I doubt if they can beat the Thunder if Gobert, the type of inside defensive presence that the Pelicans lack, is playing.  Hell, I don't even think the Lakers would have gotten past them if Rudy was around.  But that said, I'm definitely looking forward to the presence of Chet Holmgren next season, maybe.

As for the Heat, I believe they matchup better with the Bulls, i.e. a team who is more in their age range than the Hawks.  But it's like, I don't even want to see Miami make the playoffs, because they're slow and generally unexciting.  Traditionally speaking slower, more-steady teams are more-formidable.  But the NBA has changed a lot in the last few years, and these days that strategy isn't as effective.