The NBA Western Conference playoffs have been a mixed bagged. Some match ups have been cake walks, while others have been slug fest. It is safe to say that after the first round the eventual Western Conference champion is not a foregone conclusion.
Embed from Getty ImagesBlazers Dispatch Thunder in Dramatic Fashion 4-1
The Oklahoma City Thunder are a disaster and in need of a serious shake up. The stat stuffing play of Russell Westbrook has not translated to playoff success. And this was still the case in this match up. Westbrook was outplayed by Damian Lillard in every way and it wasn’t pretty. To cap things off, Lillard hit a 37 foot dagger as time expired in Game 5 to put the series to bed.
Embed from Getty ImagesNuggets Outlast Spurs 4-3
This series was a dog fight and the Nuggets were able to come out on top. The Spurs put up a valiant effort, but in the end it wasn’t enough to advance in the Western Conference playoffs. Denver, led by Jamal Murray, was able to get timely buckets in the pivotal Game 7 and advance.
Embed from Getty ImagesRockets Blast Past Jazz 4-1
The Jazz were just no match for reigning MVP James Harden. Harden was impressive on the offensive end as usual and the Rockets proved they are indeed a contender in the Western Conference. Houston looks to avenge last year’s exit when they tangle with the Warriors in the next round.
Embed from Getty ImagesWarriors Overpower Clippers 4-2
The Clippers put up a hell of a fight. They got great performances from Lou Williams and Patrick Beverley. Beverley tried his best to contain Kevin Durant, but in the end it just wasn’t enough. Durant had a masterful 50 point performance as the Warriors closed things out in Game 6.