The Eastern Conference War

(John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images)

The Eastern Conference playoffs are a fan's dream this season. Rivalries have been reignited with the Cavaliers and the Heat going toe to toe and the Detroit Pistons fighting for their last breath against the New York Knicks. The always dominant Boston Celtics and the young and feisty Indiana Pacers have shown us why it is important to have that experience in the playoffs.

*Indicates who is winning the series

*^Indicates that they won the series

#1 *^Cleveland Cavaliers vs. #8 Miami Heat (4-0) 

• The 2nd best team in the NBA this year cruised in this series for a sweep. Being led by Donovan Mitchell and the newly crowned defensive player of the year Evan Mobley, the Cavs are legitimate title contenders. In the next round they face the young Indiana Pacers that are not afraid of anybody, but neither are the Cavs.

#2 *^Boston Celtics vs. #7 Orlando Magic (4-1)

• The defending champions had a little scare in the series when Jayson Tatum went down with a bone bruise in his right wrist in Game 1. This held him out for one game but the depth of the Boston Celtics prevailed in that game. Tatum in game 5 dropped 35 points to end the dreams of a deep playoff run for the Orlando Magic.

#3 *New York Knicks vs. #6 Detroit Pistons (3-2)

• A rivalry reignited in this series as it has been one of the most physical series in the playoffs, both of these teams do not like one another and it shows. Cade Cunningham has showcased his leadership along with his unbelievable skills in this series. Karl Anthony-Towns along with Jalen Brunson have played like the players we have accustomed to watching (all NBA talent). The Knicks have another chance to close out the series in Detroit tomorrow and if they win, they will face the Boston Celtics.

#4 *^Indiana Pacers vs. #5 Milwaukee Bucks (4-1)

• The young and feisty Pacers have gained so much confidence since last year’s conference finals appearance. They have looked the part this year and took care of a seasoned team in the Milwaukee Bucks in five games. Unfortunately for the Bucks they lost their 2nd option in Damian Lillard due to an achilles tear that will keep him out for a lot of the next season. The Indiana Pacers will play against the Cleveland Cavaliers next round in which they will look to shock the world.