Western Conference Playoffs
#3 Dallas Mavericks vs. #6 Portland Trail Blazers
Team sites: Mavs Moneyball (Mavericks) & Blazers Edge (Blazers)
Essential reading on this series: Rob Mahoney gives his preview over at the Two Man Game. Must-read, must-read, must-read. Also check out these great features from Kevin Pelton of Basketball Prospectus and Zach Lowe of Sports Illustrated.
Pick: Dallas in 7. Portland is a trendy pick these days because of their perimeter strength and the emergence of LaMarcus Aldridge, but the biggest question is whether this team can nail their shots to win a road game. I'm going to guess no and roll with Dirk Nowitizki and Dallas to do just enough to get to the second round.
Schedule
Game 1: Sat., April 16 in Dallas, 9:30 p.m., ESPN
Game 2: Tue., April 19 in Dallas, 9:30 p.m., TNT
Game 3: Thu., April 21 in Portland, 10:30 p.m., TNT
Game 4: Sat., April 23 in Portland, 5 p.m., TNT
Game 5: Mon., April 25 in Dallas, TBD
Game 6: Thu., April 28 in Portland, TBD
Game 7: Sat., April 30 in Dallas, TBD, TNT