Best: Pistons @ 76ers: Willie Greene missed 1 of 2 free-throws in playoff game vs. Detroit last year that could have given them the win. In return Phili gave him a mondo contract. And since Greene hasn't played since with a season-ending injury. There's some irony there in a cosmic way, since Philadelphia hasn't improved on their #7 seed of last year. This should be a tight game only because Detroit is playing on the road but we will expect them to get the win.
Predicted Score: Detroit wins 96-93
Runner-up: Lakers @ Bobcats: Charlotte has a bright future. They can stock-pile their draft picks and should compete for a playoff spot in a year or two. Injuries are really hurting them. No Rush, Knight, Okafor, May or Wallace. That's a decent team if all their guys are healthy.
Predicted Score: Charlotte wins 97-91
Blowout: Timberwolves @ Blazers: If Minnesota is genuinely better than they were before the deal then this team should be a piece of cake. Portland lacks difference makers that Justin Reed and Ricky Davis are. Ruben Patterson will need another big game. This should be an absolute route as the Timberwolves are motivated from their trade.
Predicted Score: Minnesota wins 101-86
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