WEST

PHOENIX SUNS (1) vs. DALLAS MAVERICKS (4)

The Mavs always seem to hang near the top half of the conference, no matter how many times owner Mark Cuban reinvents the team. However, no reinvention has gotten them to the ever-elusive championship. Against a run-and-gun Phoenix team, resembling a Mavs squad of yesteryear, Dallas might come up with a few tricks, but again will settle for being a bridesmaid.

Joe goes with: Suns in 6

SAN ANTONIO SPURS (2) vs. SEATTLE SONICS (3)

Honestly, how did the Sonics win their division against the talent of the Timberwolves and Nuggets? The Sonics are overmatched by the always-sound San Antonio Spurs, who seem re-energized with Manu Ginobli coming off the bench after the Spurs’ game-one hiccup against the Denver Nuggets. How do you say sweep in Spanish?

Joe Goes With: Spurs in 4.

EAST

MIAMI HEAT (1) vs. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (5)

The Wizards will meet a Shaquille O’Neal who has become unselfish, infuriated and completely motivated to win another title. While Washington has a solid group of young players who will think they’re better than they really are for years to come, the Miami Heat are in a very exclusive class, and the Wizards aren’t on the roll sheet.

Joe goes with: Heat in 4

DETROIT PISTONS (2) vs. INDIANA PACERS (6)

So there was that whole thing about no epic battles and no great storylines earlier. Well, this series may be the exception. The Pacers are not the same team that pushed Detroit to the brink last year before the Pistons made quick work of the Lakers. Still, the Pistons are in the same class as the Heat and the two are on a collision course to meet in the semifinal round.

Joe goes with: Pistons in 5