MUST READ: 2023 Playoffs: Another 76ers Choke & Conference Finals Preview

Maybe it's time for the Embiid era to end. It's been 6 years and there's still no conference finals appearance. I get the Ben Simmons excuse but he's not completely responsible for one of the most embarrassing series losses in the 21st century (2021 vs Atlanta). Then there's game 6 this year vs Boston. Tatum was horrible before the final 4 minutes, yet Philly couldn't crack 90 points in the easiest scoring era in decades. To finish it off, they got destroyed in game 7 where their 2 all star caliber players stunk (Joel and Harden).

I think the Celtics win in 6 vs Miami. Though Boston is way more talented than the Heat, I think the reigning eastern conference champions will choke away a game (like they've done too many times the last 2 postseasons) and Butler's greatness will give them another loss. Here's Jimmy's supporting cast: the most timid scorer to make this season's all star game in Bam, a 20 point scorer in Herro who hasn't played since game 1 of the playoffs and won't suit up in this series, Lowry and Love who are way past their all star primes, undrafted role players, and Zeller. I don't think Miami can last another round with this much of a talent deficit...and Milwaukee should be embarrassed with themselves.
What makes AD special on defense is his ability to rotate to block shots at the rim and defend smaller/quicker players on the perimeter. But he didn't play vs a high volume post up player in the first 2 series. He's also shown reluctance in the past defending those type of guys. LA doesn't have another reliable big man (does Bamba count if he's able to play?) to guard Jokic and Davis has had trouble in this postseason with fatigue in the 4th quarter of certain games. Will Anthony have the energy in the final minutes to expose Nikola's lazy rim protection? If he does, how does Denver adjust? Gobert (lack of skill) and Ayton (doesn't get enough shots) haven't made Jokic work that much on defense. Gordon played good defense on KAT despite the height disadvantage. Will that work on AD if Niko can't get the job done? I think the Nuggets win in 7.

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You likely wont agree with everything and that's ok because nobody agrees with every opinion, regardless of the subject. Just know that I tried my best to be objective as possible.

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