NBA Playoffs Recap

The NBA playoffs are always a highlight of the basketball season, but the 2023 playoffs have been particularly exciting so far. With fierce competition, nail-biting finishes, and some unexpected upsets, this year's playoffs have kept fans on the edge of their seats. From the dominant performances of established stars to the breakout performances of up-and-coming players, the 2023 playoffs have showcased the incredible talent and determination of the NBA's best. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the most exciting moments of the playoffs so far and what we can expect in the coming weeks as the race to the championship heats up.

Bucks vs Heat

Going into the postseason, the Bucks were widely regarded as the best team in the league. Many see them winning it all thanks to their stacked roster and a deep bench. Additionally, they have a top 3 coach by their side, and a finalist contender in the MVP race in Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Contrary to them, the Heat barely managed to get to the playoffs, after losing game 1 of the Play-ins to the Hawks, to then face the Bulls in a tight matchup where Jimmy Butler managed to score 31 to seal the deal. So far, the series is tied at 1-1 after the Heat won game 1 on the road, the Bucks came back stronger for game 2 as they won 138-122.

Game 1 offered many injuries, as Tyler Herro was ruled out due to a broken hand, and Giannis is out on a day-to-day basis due to back pains.

Can Giannis carry his team on a broken back?

Grizzlies vs. Lakers

This matchup was one for the ages, as the second seed Grizzlies faced the 7th seed Lakers.

The Lakers found themselves in the play-in tournament, but found no real difficulty to beat the Timberwolves in game 1.

Game 1 of the playoffs series ended in the Lakers' favor, as Austin Reaves went off in the 4th quarter as he scored 14 in the time alone. In the last instances of the game, Reaves was designated to bring the ball up as he drained 4 FG in a row, as well as a beautiful assist to Rui Hachimura, who ended the game with 29 points. LeBron and AD did their thing, scoring 20+ points like Reaves, as well as securing the most blocks in the game.

On the Grizzlies side, they had to sideline Ja Morant due to a hand injury, who missed the rest of the game, probably why they lost by so much. Morant didn't play last night either, but that didn't stop the Grizzlies from winning the game thanks to Xavier Tillman.

Kings vs Warriors

Going into this series, many expected the Warriors to come out victorious in either game 1 or 2, but as the beam brightens strong, the Kings manage to win both home games as they lead the series 2-0.

Draymond Green said it best after game 1

"You gotta win a game on the road, whether it's later or sooner, you have to do it there's no question about it."

Following that statement, Draymond Green was thrown out of the game after stomping on King's big man Domantas Sabonis. Sabonis is a key player for the Kings, but luckily the stomping didn't lead to any injuries, although Green might have caused the downfall of the warriors in game 2.

Going into game 3, the Kings will have to face the Warriors on the road. The Warriors record away has been particularly bad this season, but when at home, it's like seeing the Warriors from last year's playoffs.

Suns vs Clippers

The Suns have been a favorite to win the championship this season, with the addition of KD on the floor with Devin Booker and Chris Paul, this trio can do a lot of damage.

The Suns lost game 1 to the Clippers, as Westbrook played like a defensive juggernaut and claimed the last defensive play against Booker, which sealed the game for good.

Game 2 was a different story, as the Suns finally won after their first loss with KD on the floor, they are now 9-1 when Durant plays. Game 2 was intense, as Kawhi scored 30+ points, again, and Westbrook went for 28 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Playoff westbrook we all like to see is back, and we couldn’t be happier for him.

Going into game 3, the Clippers HAVE to win if they want to secure their home court advantage. If they do so, they have a bigger chance to win game 4 and possibly eliminate the Suns in round 1. Maybe they will, maybe they won't, only time will tell. But I can tell you this, if the Suns do end up going all the way and winning it all, it will largely be thanks to KD, proving that not only KD needs a super team to win, but that these super teams need KD too .