DAY SIX -- One 1-1 series, and two others on the brink of going 3-0 all adds up to make for three exciting games of playoff basketball.
Yet another trifecta of NBA action tonight as the Nets and Pacers each attempt to gain the upper hand in their tied 1-1 series, and the Nuggets and Bulls try not to go down 0-3 to the Heat and Clippers, respectively.
Now that I've actually got my picks out on time, lets see if I can get some right.
Nets at Pacers, 7:30 PM, NBA TV
Winner: Pacers
Thoughts: The Pacers get their first home game in this series and it couldn't come sooner. Injuries have slowed this team all season long and even now Peja Stojakovic is questionable for tonight's game. A home crowd could be just what the Pacers need to rally from Tuesday's 90-75 loss. If players like Stephen Jackson and Fred Jones can step up, the Pacers should come away with a win.
Heat at Bulls, 8:00 PM, TNT
Winner: Heat
Thoughts: The Bulls are a young team and coming home to an energic crowd is likely to elevate their play. Players like Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, and Tyson Chandler especially will benefit from a packed United Center. That said, the Heat are a veteran team and certainly capable of winning on the road. This will be the closest game of the series so far, but Shaq and Wade will clench it for Miami down the stretch.
Clippers at Nuggets, 10:30 PM, TNT
Winner: Nuggets
Thoughts: Every ounce of logic in me is telling me not to pick the Nuggets, that the Clippers are going to sweep. I don't say this often, but screw logic. No player in the NBA can come out without energy and passion when faced with going down 0-3 on your home floor, after being the most sought after first round matchup in the entire league. I'll admit this pick is a stretch, but I'm counting on Carmelo Anthony, a deafening Denver crowd, and some good old Mile High oxygen to make sure the Nuggets get a win.
*all times Eastern
Jordan's Playoff Picks so far:
10/16 - 63%