2018 NBA Conference Semifinals Results & Match Preview

The 2018 NBA Playoffs Round 1 closed with two pivotal games in the Eastern Conference that surprised both fans and those who follow Bitcoin basketball odds to place wagers. The matchups between the Cleveland Cavaliers vs Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics vs Milwaukee Bucks showcased two pivotal Game 7s. The former game was led by LeBron James with 45 points to bring the Cavaliers back to life and into the Conference Semifinals. Meanwhile, the latter was closed by the Celtics with ease in a 112-96 whitewash.

2018 NBA Conference Semifinals Matchups

Western Conference

• Warriors vs Pelicans
• Rockets vs Jazz

Round 2 of the Western Conference tipped off with the Warriors dominating the Pelicans in a 123-101 victory. The Rockets also began their second-round series with a bang after defeating the Jazz 110-96.

Eastern Conference

• Raptors vs Cavaliers
• Celtics vs 76ers

Eastern Conference Preview

Raptors vs Cavaliers

For the third time in a row in the postseason, the Raptors face the Cavaliers. But, now that they have the home court advantage, can they finally capitalize on this and take LeBron James and company down?

Toronto spent this season spreading the work across the floor. They have become less reliant on All-Star guards DeRozan and Kyle Lowry, which did them good both offensively and defensively.

In contrast, Cleveland is more or less carried by James, especially in the first round of the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers. However, Cleveland overpowered Toronto in each of the past two postseasons. Not only is this an opportunity for Cleveland to reach the Eastern Conference Finals once again, but also protect their streak against the resilient Raptors. Can they do it again after their seven-game skirmish in the first round?

Celtics vs 76ers

Both teams are fueled by the league’s best rookies and best second-year players, and this talent is sure to deliver an exciting series.

The Sixers are on a roll after their 16-game winning streak and defeating the Miami Heat in five games in the first round. With favored Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons averaging a triple-double over the 20-1 stretch, this is going to be a tough contest for the Celtics who are coming out of a 7-game playoff series.

On the other hand, the Celtics have Marcus Smart back, filling the void left by injured player Kyrie Irving. Creating offensive opportunities without Irving proved to be difficult for the Celtics, but they were able to go this far with what they have at their disposal.

With a trip to the conference finals to fight for, expect all-out battles between these teams.