After a full weekend slate of NBA Playoff basketball, all eight first round series have completed their first game, presenting the challenge of determining what is a true reflection of team strength and what is simply a temporary setback. This is especially challenging given that six of the eight games were decided by double digits, showcasing dominant performances and games that were over before halftime.
Cavs vs. Magic: Orlando’s guards must provide an offensive boost
Both teams are built to play strong defense, and they demonstrated that in the opener. However, the Cavs have a proven playoff performer in Donovan Mitchell, while the Magic lack a comparable player. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner need to step up, but the key for Orlando may lie with their guards becoming offensive threats. The Cavs are prioritizing paint protection, daring Orlando to hit shots. In Game 1, the Magic struggled to do so, with their guards experiencing a tough night.
Timberwolves vs. Suns: Devin Booker needs to adjust to Minnesota’s ball pressure
The Timberwolves dominated the Suns in the weekend’s largest blowout. Phoenix must address several issues, including keeping Jusuf Nurkic on the floor and out of foul trouble. However, more intriguing is how Devin Booker will respond after a rough opener. Booker struggled with the Timberwolves’ physicality and ball pressure, especially from Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Booker is capable of big playoff performances, but doing so consistently is crucial for Phoenix’s chances.
76ers vs. Knicks: Philly must figure out the non-Embiid minutes
The Sixers struggled in the minutes that Joel Embiid was off the floor in Game 1. With Embiid likely unable to play 40 minutes per game, they need to find a way to minimize the impact of his absence. Paul Reed needs to improve his physicality on the glass, and the Sixers need someone other than their stars to contribute offensively. Tobias Harris was a non-factor in Game 1, and only Kyle Lowry provided significant support beyond Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Nuggets vs. Lakers: Can the Lakers put together a full 48 minutes?
Beating the Denver Nuggets in a playoff series is incredibly challenging because they require 48 minutes of sustained high-level play. In Game 1, the Lakers started aggressively with LeBron James and Anthony Davis dominating, but lulls in the second half cost them the game. Solving this riddle will require more from the role players. D’Angelo Russell struggled with his shot, and there is no clear replacement for him. The Lakers need consistency around James and Davis, but they lost Game 1 against a Denver team that was not at their best.
Celtics vs. Heat: Miami needs everyone to contribute
The Celtics dominated the Heat in Game 1, forcing Boston’s starters to return in the fourth quarter to contain a Miami run. Without Jimmy Butler, the Heat will need everyone on their team to contribute significantly. This means hitting contested threes and providing support for their stars.
Clippers vs. Mavericks: The Mavs must figure out their frontcourt rotation
The Clippers dominated the first half of Game 1, but the Mavs showed signs of improvement in the second half. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving found their rhythm, but the big question for Dallas is whether they can find a reliable frontcourt rotation. Ivica Zubac dominated with 20 points and 15 rebounds, and the Mavs struggled to find an answer.
Bucks vs. Pacers: Will Tyrese Haliburton meet the challenge?
Milwaukee won Game 1, but Tyrese Haliburton had an uncharacteristically passive game. The Bucks turned up their defensive intensity, but Haliburton must be more involved in the offense, especially with Giannis Antetokounmpo out.
Thunder vs. Pelicans: Can Brandon Ingram fight his worst instincts?
The Pelicans have a strong defense, but their stars need to avoid relying on isolation plays. Brandon Ingram struggled in Game 1, making poor decisions and taking difficult shots. He needs to trust his teammates and involve them in the offense. If he does, the Pelicans could challenge the Thunder in this series.
