@KeepTheJuice21 NBA Playoff Picks - 5/3

Game 1 of this series was a defensive showcase on both ends and if it means anything, we’re in for an excellent series. That said, the over is the most tempting bet in my eyes. No one (except maybe Bobby Portis) had a good shooting night in the first game. Jaylen Brown was way off the mark, Smart couldn’t get anything and even Giannis was missing a lot of inside shots he typically makes.

The two teams shot 41% and 33%, which is not a fluke but is very difficult to replicate on defense. The Celtics will have to commit more to guarding Giannis, especially late in the game, which opens up the rest of the offense. The Celtics will see similar looks but have the potential to score much more efficiently. Look for the total number to flip from the first matchup.

It’s unfortunate for a team as exciting as the Grizzlies that they’ve caught the Warriors as close to full strength as they’ve been since 2019. Memphis had a chance to finish the first game but Ja’s layup just wouldn’t fall. I don’t think they’ll have that chance again tonight.

The loss of Draymond didn’t seem like it was as impactful as it should’ve been, given Warriors were down 1 when he went out, but that’s misleading. This Warriors team does a ton of damage in the 3rd quarter and weren’t able to in Greens absence. I think this game will look close for a little while, then when the defensive adjustments come in, the Warriors will take over quickly.