NBA Playoffs 2016: Updated Postseason Schedule, Dates and Predictions

The first-round matchups in this year’s NBA playoffs have mostly been duds so far. There have been several blowouts, both between opponents with comparable credentials and those with far different resumes.

However, a few series feature teams that are somewhat evenly matched and could end up going the distance. 

Let’s look at the remaining schedules for all eight series, predict the final outcome of each matchup and highlight what should happen in some of the more entertaining series.

Predictions for Tightly Contested Series

Toronto Raptors vs. Indiana Pacers (Series tied 1-1)

Who are the Toronto Raptors? It’s a question fans are still trying to answer, even after Toronto won an impressive 56 games during the regular season. The Raptors have lost in the first round in the last two years despite being the higher seed, and look in danger of being upset again this season.

The difference in Toronto’s performances between Games 1 and 2 against Indiana was stark. The Raptors’ energy level on defense clearly improved, inspired by their home crowd at the Air Canada Centre. They conceded an efficient 28 points to Paul George, but focused on shutting down his supporting cast—and it worked.

Moving forward in the series, the Raptors’ No. 1 priority has to be getting DeMar DeRozan going. The All-Star shooting guard …

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