Power rankings system devised and compiled weekly by Stemshul. “Expert” analysis by paradroid.

Well, the Mavs finally lost! Hooray! I did manage to pick both of these series correctly this time, and now we’re down to just two teams, the Warriors and the Celtics. Boston survived a very tough seven game battle with the Heat, while Golden State handled Dallas in five. This suggests that Golden State should be the favorite, and that’s how Vegas sees it. Last time I mentioned that I thought Boston and Milwaukee were the two best teams left, and thus I ought to agree with the odds-makers and pick the Celtics.

But I think I’ve changed my mind. I think Boston’s health issues are a part of it, with both Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III not at 100%. The way Boston struggled against a Miami team who has real issues creating offense even when Tyler Herro plays (and he missed the last 4 games, in which Boston went 3-1) is another reason. Although I don’t think this current Warriors team is quite on the level of their very best from a few years ago, their array of scorers should offset their slightly suspect defense. I’ll pick Golden State in seven.

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