The Thunder, led by head coach Mark Daigneault, have displayed resilience and determination throughout the season, defying expectations and proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Despite facing adversity and undergoing a period of rebuilding, the Thunder have embraced their underdog status, showcasing a blend of youthful exuberance and veteran leadership.

In their quest for postseason success, the Thunder will rely heavily on their dynamic duo of emerging superstar Jalen Green and seasoned veteran Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Green, the electrifying rookie sensation, has dazzled spectators with his scoring prowess and athleticism, while Gilgeous-Alexander has provided steady leadership and clutch performances when it matters most.

However, standing in their path are the Dallas Mavericks, led by the astute coaching of Jason Kidd and the transcendent talent of Luka Dončić. The Mavericks, boasting a potent blend of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity, present a formidable challenge for any opponent.

At the heart of the Mavericks’ success is Dončić, whose otherworldly skill set and basketball IQ have propelled him into the upper echelon of NBA superstars. A triple-double threat every time he steps onto the court, Dončić possesses the ability to take over games single-handedly, making him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.

In addition to Dončić, the Mavericks feature a supporting cast of talented players, including Kristaps Porziņģis, Jalen Brunson, and Tim Hardaway Jr., each capable of making significant contributions on both ends of the floor.

As the Thunder prepare to square off against the Mavericks in what promises to be a thrilling playoff showdown, they understand the magnitude of the task at hand. To emerge victorious, they must execute their game plan with precision, match the Mavericks’ intensity and energy, and capitalize on every opportunity presented to them.

Key factors in determining the outcome of this matchup will include the battle on the boards, the ability to limit turnovers, and the effectiveness of each team’s defensive schemes. With both teams possessing explosive offenses and suffocating defenses, every possession will be hotly contested, and every decision will carry immense weight.

For the Thunder, success will hinge on their ability to disrupt the Mavericks’ rhythm, contain Dončić as much as possible, and execute their offensive sets with efficiency and purpose. By playing with unwavering resolve and unwavering belief in themselves, the Thunder have the potential to pull off a monumental upset and advance to the next round of the playoffs.

As the anticipation reaches a fever pitch and the stage is set for an epic showdown, basketball fans everywhere eagerly await the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Dallas Mavericks. Only one team will emerge victorious in a battle of wills and skill, but both will leave an indelible mark on the annals of NBA history.

The post OKC Thunder Brace for Intense Showdown Against Dallas Mavericks: Game 1 May 7th at The Paycom Center  appeared first on Tech Geeked.

While this dynamic duo may seem unlikely at first glance, their combined influence is making a significant impact on the National Football League and the entertainment industry.

The Swift-Kelce Connection

The story of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s romance began with a chance meeting at a charity event in early 2022. As two of the most recognizable figures in their respective fields, it was only a matter of time before their paths crossed.

Swift, known for her chart-topping music and philanthropic endeavors, was drawn to Kelce’s charisma and dedication to both football and community service. On the other hand, Kelce was captivated by Swift’s talent and her ability to connect with audiences worldwide.

The Relationship Blossoms

As the couple’s relationship blossomed, they quickly became fixtures at each other’s events. Taylor Swift, who is no stranger to the spotlight, attended several Kansas City Chiefs games to support Kelce, often performing a pre-game concert that sent fans into a frenzy.

Meanwhile, Kelce made appearances at Swift’s concerts, surprising fans with his charming dance moves and charismatic stage presence.

Their public appearances together sparked immense interest and speculation, but the couple managed to keep their relationship relatively private, sharing only glimpses of their life on social media and through select interviews. This privacy allowed them to maintain a sense of normalcy amid their highly publicized careers.

Influence on the NFL

The Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce power couple is not just about glitz and glamour; it’s about making a tangible impact on the NFL and its fanbase. Here’s how their union is changing the game:

1. Increased Fan Engagement: Swift’s concerts at Chiefs games and Kelce’s appearances at her shows have brought fans of both worlds together. NFL games now often feel like a blend of sports and music festivals, appealing to a broader demographic.
2. Charity and Community Outreach: Both Swift and Kelce are known for their philanthropic efforts. Their joint initiatives, such as charity concerts and fundraisers, have raised significant funds for various causes, including education, health, and disaster relief.
3. Enhanced Branding: The couple’s combined star power has attracted sponsors eager to be associated with this dynamic duo. From fashion endorsements to partnerships with charitable organizations, they have leveraged their influence to raise awareness and support for various causes.
4. Inspiring Young Talent: Swift and Kelce’s success stories serve as inspirations for aspiring artists and athletes. Their journey from humble beginnings to superstardom sends a message of hard work, determination, and resilience.
5. Promoting Inclusivity: Both Swift and Kelce have been advocates for diversity and inclusivity. Their relationship symbolizes a positive step forward in breaking down barriers and promoting acceptance, both in the sports world and the entertainment industry.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce may have come from different worlds, but their love story and shared commitment to making a difference are reshaping the NFL landscape. Their unique blend of music, sports, and philanthropy has left an indelible mark on the league, transcending traditional boundaries and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.

As their relationship continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see the new heights they reach together and the positive changes they bring to the worlds of entertainment and sports.

The post Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: The Unlikely Duo Taking Over the NFL appeared first on Tech Geeked.

An MRI has revealed that Rodgers has suffered a complete tear of his Achilles tendon, a season-ending injury that has left fans and the entire NFL community stunned. In this article, we will delve into the details of Rodgers’s injury and its implications for the New York Jets and their fans.

The Game-Changing Acquisition

The New York Jets made headlines during the offseason when they acquired Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers in a blockbuster trade. The move was seen as a game-changer for the franchise, giving them a veteran quarterback with a Super Bowl-winning pedigree and a reputation as one of the NFL’s most prolific passers.

Rodgers’s arrival brought renewed hope to Jets fans, who had endured a string of disappointing seasons. The anticipation was palpable as Rodgers took the field for his first start in a Jets uniform, and the team’s faithful were eager to see their new star in action.

The Fateful Play

Unfortunately, Rodgers’s debut with the Jets took a devastating turn during a routine play in the first quarter of the game against division-rival Buffalo Bills. As he dropped back to pass, Rodgers felt a sharp pain in his right ankle and immediately crumpled to the ground. The stadium fell silent as it became clear that something was seriously wrong.

Medical staff rushed to Rodgers’s side, and he was unable to put any weight on his right leg. Initial fears of a severe ankle injury were confirmed when an MRI revealed a complete tear of his Achilles tendon, a devastating injury that typically requires a lengthy recovery process.

Torn Achilles tendons typically take several months of recovery due to the extensive rehabilitation needed.

On only his fourth regular-season snap in a Jets uniform, Rodgers tried to avoid a rushing Leonard Floyd, who wrapped up the quarterback and spun him down to the MetLife Stadium turf. Rodgers stood up after a few moments, looked over to the Jets’ sideline and then sat on the turf, knowing he was seriously hurt.

Rodgers needed help from trainers to get to New York’s sideline, where he was taken to the blue medical tent to be examined. Rodgers then got on a cart to go to the locker room, hopped off near the tunnel, and limped inside.

The Implications

Rodgers’s injury has significant implications for both the New York Jets and the NFL as a whole. First and foremost, the Jets must now navigate the remainder of the season without their star quarterback. This presents a significant challenge for a team that had high hopes for the season with Rodgers at the helm.

Backup quarterback Zach Wilson, a talented but inexperienced player, will now be thrust into the starting role. The Jets will need to lean on their coaching staff and the rest of the team to support Wilson as he steps into the spotlight.

For Rodgers himself, the injury represents a major setback in his career. At 39 years old, he faces a grueling rehabilitation process and an uncertain future in the NFL. Many are wondering if this injury could potentially mark the end of his illustrious career.

The NFL community as a whole has also been left in shock by Rodgers’s injury. He is one of the league’s most iconic and beloved figures, and his presence on the field is always a treat for football fans. The loss of such a dynamic talent is a blow to the entire league.

Aaron Rodgers’s injury in his first start with the New York Jets is a heartbreaking turn of events for the quarterback, the team, and NFL fans everywhere.

The Achilles tendon tear has ended his season prematurely and raised questions about his future in the league.

As the Jets regroup and move forward without their star, the NFL community will undoubtedly be watching closely, hoping for a successful recovery and a triumphant return for one of the game’s all-time greats.

The post Aaron Rodgers Sidelined: A Tough Break for the New York Jets appeared first on Tech Geeked.

Here are our picks for who to expect to win in Week 1 of the 2023 NFL season:

• Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons (-3.5): The Panthers are the slight underdogs in this one, but we think they have the better quarterback in Sam Darnold and the better defense. We are taking the Panthers to win outright.
• Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5) at Cleveland Browns: This is a tough one to call, but we will go with the Bengals. Joe Burrow is coming off a great season, and we think he’ll be able to pick apart the Browns’ defense.
• Jacksonville Jaguars (-5) at Indianapolis Colts: The Jaguars are the new kids on the block, but they have a lot of young talent on their roster. We think they’ll be able to take down the Colts in this one.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Minnesota Vikings (-6): The Buccaneers were Super Bowl champions not too long ago, but they’ll be without the legend Tom Brady this season. We think the Vikings will be able to take advantage of that and win this one.
• Tennessee Titans at New Orleans Saints (-3): This is a toss-up game, but we are going with the Titans. Derrick Henry is one of the best running backs in the NFL, and we think he’ll be able to wear down the Saints’ defense.
• San Francisco 49ers (-2.5) at Pittsburgh Steelers: The 49ers are coming off a disappointing season, but we think they’ll be back in the mix this year if the team can stay healthy. I’m taking them to win in week 1.
• Arizona Cardinals at Washington Commanders (-7): The Cardinals are the better team on paper, but they’ll be without Kyler Murray in this game. We are leaning towards the Commanders who will be able to take advantage of that and win.
• Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens (-10): The Texans are rebuilding, and the Ravens are one of the best teams in the NFL with one of the best quarterbacks in Lamar Jackson. I think the Ravens will win this one easily.
• Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears (-1): This is a rivalry game, and anything can happen. But we will go with the new Packers. Aaron Rodgers may no longer be a Packer but Greenbay should be able to pull off a week 1 win.
• Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos (-3.5): This is another tough one to call, but we are going with the Raiders. Jimmy Garoppolo is healthy and the Raiders have a good defense.
• Philadelphia Eagles (-4) at New England Patriots: The Eagles are the better team on paper, but the Patriots are always tough at home. We think this game will be close, but I’m taking the Eagles to win.
• Miami Dolphins @ Los Angeles Chargers (-3): The Chargers are the better team, but the Dolphins are always tough in Miami. This game will be close, but we will take the Chargers to win.
• Dallas Cowboys (-3.5) at New York Giants: The Cowboys are the better team, and they’ll be playing at home. They will win this one easily.

These are just our picks, and everyone knows anything can happen in the NFL. These are the teams that are most likely to win in Week 1.

The post NFL Week 1 Picks: Who Will Win and Start the 2023 Season 1-0? appeared first on Tech Geeked.

In the past, locals enjoyed high-flying action, and ticket sales reflected local interest. Expect another exceptional evening of your favorite sports entertainment. Things are hotter than ever with the WWE, so it’s safe to say it’s a guaranteed night of fast, frantic fun. It’s not the first time WWE has been featured at the Paycom Center.

Locals have enjoyed a long history of the group visiting the Big Friendly, and this show looks set to smash all expectations as WWE continues to ramp things up.

WWE at the OKC Paycom Center

Oklahoma residents have enjoyed WWE at the Paycom Center since 2002. Over the years, the Center has hosted many Raw and Smackdown events and even a PPV event. Unforgiven 2008 at the Paycom Center sold over 8,000 tickets and is fondly remembered by fans of the sport.

Also in 2008, an impressive 11,560 fans made their way to the stadium for a televised episode of Raw. This event saw the most tickets sold by WWE in Oklahoma in its history. This record didn’t last for long, though, and was surpassed a few years later when the WWE completely sold out the arena. An incredible 14,708 fans packed into the stadium to see their favorite superstars in action.

The stadium’s long and successful history of hosting the show means fans should rush to secure their tickets as soon as possible. With things as tense as ever in the WWE, there’s really no limit to what could happen on this night, and diehard fans of the sport won’t want to miss it.

Tickets for WWE Raw at the OKC Paycom Center

This year’s event looks set to be better than ever, with WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins set to make an appearance. Other superstars in attendance include WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley, Intercontinental Champion “The Ring General” Gunther, WWE Tag Team Champions Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, and many more household names.

Tickets for the WWE Raw event are available via Ticketmaster. Sales started on July 14th, so act fast to make sure you don’t miss out! Tickets for the event start at $20, with the event commencing at 6:30 p.m. on October 16th. This night is guaranteed fun for all the family, so book your tickets sooner rather than later.

The Paycom Center is off the I-40 in downtown Oklahoma City. The convenient location means it’s easily accessible via public transport, on foot, or by car.

The post WWE RAW Coming to OKC Paycom Center this Fall appeared first on Tech Geeked.

The Yanks’ relief pitchers had an exceptional postseason and are expected to keep up their strong play next year.

They lost two of last year’s most essential pitchers, Aroldis Chapman and Andrew Miller, but they bolstered the bullpen by signing another excellent left-handed reliever in Tyler Clippard. Clippard is expected to take over just as a setup man for Dellin Betances with Chapman out of commission.

The starting rotation was the Yankees’ weak spot this season, and they will need to find some solid starters to complement the great bullpen.

Fortunately, they have the best farm system in baseball and can quickly go out in the off-season and sign a few proven aces who are looking for one last shot at glory. The team has been quietly shopping for established veterans to fill its empty rotation spots and expect them to find some reliable players who can take their game to another level.

Offensively, the Yanks had one of their best seasons in decades. They broke multiple team records for home runs and strikeouts, but they overcame those glaring deficiencies by having a very disciplined approach at the plate. They led the league in sacrifice hits, drawing walks, and getting hit by pitches.

These stats prove that the Yanks’ hitters will continue to succeed if they maintain their same approach.

The key to advancing far into the postseason is to have a strong pitching staff. The Yankees know that all too well from their history of success with great pitchers like Whitey Ford, who was crucial in their history of winning titles during the sixties.

The Yankees are hoping for a repeat performance from some of their current pitchers and are ready to make it happen next year.

The Yankees will need to make a few changes on their team to regain the dominant position they held for a long time but were recently dethroned by the Red Sox. The good news is that their pitching staff is solid and will lead them back to the top of baseball.

The criticism was that the Yankees didn’t have a legitimate number-three starter behind Luis Severino and Masahiro Tanaka, but now they have a “legitimate” third starter in Jordan Montgomery. When I read that sentence, I tried to think about it rationally (i.e., not screaming “Homer! Homer! Homer!”), and my thoughts drifted first to the bullpen, where Chapman will be sorely missed.

The team will need to complete its rotation with further acquisitions this winter. I’m not sure I’d consider Tyler Clippard a “legitimate” third starter, but if you’re going to re-sign him because he’s practical and younger than most of the other options, go for it.

Yankees fans can rejoice in knowing that their team’s pitching staff is in good shape and could lead them to a 28th World Series title. The team lost two key pitchers but bolstered the bullpen by signing Tyler Clippard. They will also need solid starters who can complement the great bullpen.

The Yankees have a talented farm system and can quickly go out in the off-season and sign some proven aces who are looking for another chance at glory. The team will need to make a few changes on their team to regain the dominant position they held for a long time but were recently dethroned by the Red Sox. The good news is that their pitching staff is solid and will lead them back to the top of baseball.

The post The New York Yankees Chase Championship 28 appeared first on Tech Geeked.

Here’s a quick look at who is left and what is to come.

Eastern Conference

Milwaukee Bucks (3) def. Atlanta Hawks (5) , 2-1

Most of the NBA world had neither team winning their previous round matchup and this is perhaps a surprise for many. 

The Bucks were able to *upset* the Brooklyn Nets even though they have proved that they were a top notch team in previous years. Simply put, Kevin Durant led a beat up Nets squad to nearly pull off a miracle but came up just short. 

On the other side, Trae Young and his rag tag Hawks squad were able to pull off a similar upset against the 76ers. 

Most people had the ECF as a Philadelphia – Brooklyn affair, but alas this is anything but that…

After 3 games, the Bucks are now the Eastern Conference favorites with a 2-1 series lead after Atlanta grabbed game 1 on the road. The Bucks have gotten clutch performances from some of their secondary stars like Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday and look like a complete team again. 

Although the Hawks have played well to this point, it appears the Bucks have the advantage and maybe it is indeed “their year” and finally time for Giannis to become a champion.

Our pick: Bucks in 6

Western Conference

Phoenix Suns (2) lead LA Clippers (4), 3-1

The Suns have been this year’s “surprise” team even though they were the #2 seed in the West. With breakout performances from Devin Booker and solid play from Deandre Ayton and the rest of the bench, the Suns have taken a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Chris Paul has missed a good chunk of the series but is now back at the helm. The Clippers have also not had two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard on the court and that has been a huge factor in this series.

Overall, the Suns have just been too good this post-season to bet against. The Clippers have come back from several deficits so far but the play of Booker and Paul is way too much for a team without its best player in Kawhi to overcome.

Our pick: Suns in 5

The Finals are next and we’ll be excited to bring you picks and analysis on that soon.

The post NBA Conference Finals: Suns take control, Hawks give up series lead appeared first on Tech Geeked.

Philadelphia 76ers (1) vs. Atlanta Hawks (5)

So far: Tied, 1-1

The Hawks were able to beat the Knicks fairly easily in the first round and also steal game one on the road against the 76ers. Philadelphia has gotten huge performances from MVP qualifier Joel Embiid with 39 and 40 in the first 2 games of the series along with excellent performances from their bench. The series should come down to whether Ben Simmons can improve his game and if the 76ers can win in Atlanta.

Our pick: 76ers in 6

Brooklyn Nets (2) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (3)

So far: Nets up 2-1

The Nets have routed the Bucks in the first two games, even without the help of James Harden in game 2. The series moves to Milwaukee where a good Bucks team should at least be able to split the games. With that said, the Nets have looked dominant and hungry to move on and send Giannis home early yet again.

Our pick: Nets in 5

Western Conference

Utah Jazz (1) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (4)

So far: Jazz up 2-0

The Clippers managed to come back from 3-2 to beat the Mavericks in an excellent early 7 game first round matchup. Utah looked like a different team with star Donovan Mitchell on the court and easily beat the upstart Grizzlies.

Our pick: Jazz in 5

Phoenix Suns (2) vs. Denver Nuggets (3)

So far: Suns up 2-0

This is likely to be the most competitive series after the Suns sent the Lakers home and the Nuggets did the same against Portland.

MVP Nikola Jokic will need help from his supporting cast to defeat a tough Suns team that took game 1. The exact same could be said about Phoenix’s star, Devin Booker, who is playing at the top of his game. 

Our pick: Suns in 7

The post NBA Playoffs Round 2: Who will advance to the Conference Finals? appeared first on Tech Geeked.

First-round playoff matchups

Eastern Conference

Matchup: Washington Wizards (8) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (1)

Currently: 76ers up 1-0

There’s certainly no lack of star power in this series with Philadelphia’s dynamic duo of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons facing off against the Wizard’s own duo of Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook. The 76ers just have too many weapons to exit this early, including Tobias Harris who led the team with 37 points in the game 1 victory.

Our pick: 76ers in 5

Matchup: Boston Celtics (7) vs. Brooklyn Nets (2)

Currently: Nets up 1-0

The Celtics survived the play-in round to set-up a battle with the heavily favored Brooklyn Nets. The Nets will have all of their star players available and have a starting five that includes Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, James Harden, Blake Griffin, and Joe Harris. Boston’s bench played well but they simply don’t have enough firepower to beat this Nets squad.

Our pick: Nets in 5

Matchup: Miami Heat (6) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (3)

Currently: Bucks up 1-0

Both teams are not really favorites to come out of the Eastern Conference but they could easily sneak up on teams. The Bucks have underperformed in the playoffs in recent years while the Heat surprised everyone by reaching the Finals last year. Game 1 perhaps set the tone as Khris Middleton hit a clutch shot to give Milwaukee the victory. This isn’t the series with the most buzz but it could end up being the most exciting and competitive.

Our pick: Bucks in 7

Matchup: Atlanta Hawks (5) vs.New York Knicks (4)

Currently: Hawks up 1-0

This is certainly an intriguing matchup featuring two teams that haven’t been in the playoffs much. The Knicks are a nitty gritty squad with a young up and coming roster. Atlanta has a superstar in Trae Young and some very capable supporting players in Bogdan Bogdanovic, D’Andre Hunter and Clint Capela. While the Knicks success has been one of the best stories of 2021, the Hawks simply have too much talent. Game 1 showed Young and the unheralded Hawks stars can deliver in the clutch and come out on top.

Our pick: Hawks in 6

Western Conference

Matchup: Memphis Grizzlies (8) vs. Utah Jazz (1)

Currently: Grizzlies up 1-0

The Jazz are heavily favored in this series but it could certainly be closer than many might think, especially after the Grizzlies pulled off a game 1 upset in Salt Lake City. Ja Morant will have to have a huge series for the Grizzlies to have a chance, while Utah’s full of weapons that make them quite well rounded. If Donovan Mitchell stays healthy after missing the opener, the Jazz should prevail. Dillon Brooks’ huge game does give Memphis a ton of hope for this series but the Jazz were the best overall team in the NBA for a reason with Mitchell healthy.

Our pick: Jazz in 6

Matchup: Los Angeles Lakers (7) vs. Phoenix Suns (2)

Currently: Suns up 1-0

The Suns have crept up on many casual fans in the Western Conference and came away with both homefield advantage and a game 1 win against the defending champs. Health is already a huge factor as Chris Paul had a few scary moments. The Suns might be in a better position now but winning on the road against LeBron and Davis will be tough.

Our pick: Lakers in 6

Matchup: Portland Trail Blazers (6) vs. Denver Nuggets (3)

Currently: Trail Blazers up 1-0

Portland surprised most NBA fans by taking game 1 on the road and did a good job limiting the likely MVP Nikola Jokic. This is another series that could bring a dark horse out of the West. The injury of Jamal Murray is huge though, and though we picked the Nuggets to come out of the West, this injury is a huge difference-maker.

Our pick: Trail Blazers in 6

Matchup: Dallas Mavericks (5) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (4)

Currently: Mavericks up 1-0

This should be another very competitive series. While Luka Doncic essentially catapulted Dallas to a game 1 victory by himself, he can’t do it alone in a full series against a well-built Clippers squad. LA just has too much experience with “Playoff Rondo”, two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and several key bench players.

Our pick: Clippers in 7

The post First Round of the NBA Playoffs: What to Expect appeared first on Tech Geeked.

Play-in games

Update: We were 0 for 2. The Pacers handedly beat the Hornets to eliminate them from this year’s playoffs. The Celtics also won with a huge 50 point game from star Jayson Tatum. It looks like both home teams did have the advantage after all.

Matchup: Charlotte Hornets (10) vs. Indiana Pacers (9)

Time: 5/18 @ 6:30 PM EST

Watch: TNT

All eyes will be on LaMelo Ball in his playoff debut against a depleted Pacers squad. Indiana should not be overlooked though with the presence of their own budding superstar Domantas Sabonis. 

Our pick: Hornets

Matchup: Washington Wizards (8) vs. Boston Celtics (7)

Time: 5/18 @ 9:00 PM EST

Watch: TNT

The Celtics seeding doesn’t really reflect the actual matchup, as they recently lost Jaylen Brown to injury and face a Wizards squad with 2 legitimate scorers in Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook. 

Our pick: Wizards

Matchup: San Antonio Spurs (10) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (9)

Time: 5/19 @ 7:30 PM EST

Watch: ESPN

Ja Morant is the obvious headliner in this series that pits one franchise that has perennially been a contender in the Spurs against a beleaguered one in the Grizzlies. The Spurs were under .500 on the season and just simply don’t have the talent to make any deep run this year.

Our pick: Grizzlies

Matchup: Golden State Warriors (8) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (7)

Time: 5/19 @ 10:00 PM EST

Watch: ESPN

This is the play-in game that is the most exciting for most fans as it pits the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers against a Golden State Warriors franchise that has been dominant over the past decade. Of course, this year’s Warriors squad has needed to rely heavily on Steph Curry while the Lakers have been faced with numerous injuries. They’ll have their pair of superstars back, however, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis ready. Curry could make it interesting but the Lakers will prevail in the end.

Our pick: Lakers

From there, the play-in round will feature the following matchups:

Matchup: Game 1 Winner vs. Game 2 Loser

Time: 5/20 @ 8:00 PM

Watch: TNT

This would put the Hornets against the Celtics by our picks. For the same reasons as before, the Celtics not having Brown will be a huge difference maker.

Our pick: Hornets

Matchup: Game 3 Winner vs. Game 4 Loser

Time: 5/21 @ TBD

Watch: ESPN

This would put the Grizzlies against the Warriors by our picks. This time, we’re going with the underdog and Curry to come out victorious to move on against the young Hornets squad.

Our pick: Warriors

After these games, the more traditional series matchup will be set. We’ll reevaluate at that point and have picks for those too.

The post NBA Playoff Play-In Game Predictions appeared first on Tech Geeked.