2011 Eastern Conference Playoff predictions

Eastern Conference:

1.  Chicago Bulls vs 8. Indiana Pacers

The Bulls have far more talent and athleticism against the Pacers. Danny Granger stated that if they contain D-Rose, they'll have a chance at the series. The question is that how will they do it and if they can do it. In the end, the Bulls have too much firepower to even allow the Pacers to make this series interesting.

Bulls in four.

4. Orlando Magic vs 5. Atlanta Hawks

This will be a rematch of last year's Conference Semi-final series. Last year, the Magic demolished the Hawks by 101 points in the four games combined. This year, Atlanta will try to use Jason Collins to try and contain Dwight Howard. With Collins, Atlanta might be able to match up with Howard better than last year. But now, can Atlanta's wing players match up with Hedo Turkoglu? Can they contain the point guard combination of Jameer Nelson and Gilbert Arenas? This series, however, will be more interesting.

Magic in six.

2. Miami Heat vs 7. Philadelphia 76ers

Miami swept the Sixers in their regular season series. Doug Collins stated that Philly should get 80% of the 50-50 balls. Andre Iguodala will be matched up against LeBron James. Elton Brand will be against Chris Bosh. Now, who do the Sixers have for Dwyane Wade? Louis Williams is not healthy, so you should expect Jrue Holiday to be guarding Dwyane Wade. Miami's bench needs to step up. The Sixers' bench was among the top scoring benches in the league Miami's? The other way around. Even though the Heat have a superior starting unit, the Sixers' bench will make this series interesting.

Heat in six. 

3. Boston Celtics vs 6. New York Knicks

A rivalry renewed. The Celtics were stumbling heading into the series while the Knicks were red-hot. Amar'e Stoudemire will be going up against Kevin Garnett. Garnett is arguably the best defensive power forward in the NBA. Carmelo Anthony vs Paul Pierce will be the key battle in the series. Rajon Rondo has to step up against Chauncey Billups. With the Knicks being able to match those 3, who will they have against Ray Allen? I know some will say that Toney Douglas will "match up with Ray Allen". Even though Douglas is playing well, he's still not in the level to match up with the all-time leader in 3-pointers made. Expect a big series from Ray Allen.

Celtics in five.