What an exciting and unexpected finals matchup. Denver dominated the western conference playoffs. Miami knocked off two of the league’s best teams in three rounds. The Heat broke down Boston, Milwaukee and New York with elite defense, timely three point shooting and driving to the basket. Whoever wins this year’s championship deserves the praise, accolades and conversation of all-time best teams this century. It’s time to break down which franchise has the best chance of winning a championship and raising a banner on a wild and entertaining NBA season.
#8 Miami Heat v. #1 Denver Nuggets
Audiences view this series as part two of Miami versus Milwaukee’s thrilling first round matchup. A dominant MVP candidate with two notable stars places Denver in a favorable position. There are many differences with the Nuggets compared to the Bucks starting with coaches. Michael Malone overwhelmed adaptable Lakers coach Darvin Ham in a mostly one-sided conference finals. Malone’s made sure Denver steps up on defense each game while the offense gradually takes over and dominates second halves.
The offense isn’t a two dimensional pairing of Jamal Murray and the best center in the league Nikola Jokic. Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. played their best basketball when it mattered most, eliminating Los Angeles the previous series and the last two games versus Phoenix prior. Their consistency makes it harder for Miami to defend against compared to Khris Middleton. Jokic’s athleticism puts Heat center Bam Adebayo in terrible situations. Brook Lopez has been the best center Adebayo’s played against this postseason and that was a struggle.
Another disadvantage is both guard positions. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jamal Murray will give Gabe Vincent and Max Strus fits. The latter two are good players but Murray is peaking at the best time and Caldwell-Pope is a multi-faceted, veteran player who should have better stats each night of the series.
Miami’s run to the championship is one of the best sports stories ever witnessed in the U.S. and Erik Spoelstra’s cemented his top three place in the NBA all-time head coaching list. Denver has every advantage including rest, fresh players and more game tape on how to force turnovers and exploit Miami’s defense. The Heat might have the most memorable season to many viewers, but it will be the Nuggets who make first-time history with this championship series win.
Prediction: Denver Nuggets defeat Miami 4-1 and win their first ever Larry O’Brien Trophy
2023 total playoff predictions record: 9-3
JD's Sportscorner 