After six months and 1,230 regular season games, a series of brilliant performances plus the enduring soap operas in Los Angeles and New York, the NBA Playoffs are upon us as the finest 16 teams in world basketball fight it out to be crowned champions.
It may be the first time in 13 years that a LeBron James-led team have failed to reach the postseason, following a disastrous first year with the Lakers, but there is still lots to get excited about as the Golden State Warriors look to win a third title on the bounce.
'We want more' - Bristol Flyers outline future ambitions as they claim women's basketball title
The Bristol Flyers are in the midst of their own push for the playoffs with just five games remaining and Andreas Kapoulas' team in 10th, a tantalising two points from a top-eight berth which will set them up for a run at the Finals at the O2 on May 19.
We asked head coach Kapoulas plus Daniel Edozie and Lewis Champion to take some time out from training and offer their predictions for the NBA Playoffs which start on Saturday.
Andreas Kapoulas - Head Coach
Which player are you most looking forward to watching and why?
I’d have to say Giannis Antetokounmpo (of Milwaukee Bucks)! He’s the best player in the league and he is also Greek!
Which team are you most looking forward to watching?
The Boston Celtics - They have one the best coaches in the league in Brad Stevens and they play hard-nosed defence. Plus, you always have to find a way to stop Kyrie Irving.
Which team, if any, do you see flopping?
It’s difficult to tell - most high seeds should progress quite far.
'We want more' - Bristol Flyers outline future ambitions as they claim women's basketball title
Who will win the Eastern Conference and why?
Milwaukee Bucks because no one else has Giannis!
Who will win the Western Conference and why?
I think Golden State Warriors because of their multiple threats and championship mentality.
Who will be the NBA champion and why?
My head says Golden State Warriors, my heart says Milwaukee Bucks.
Daniel Edozie - Forward
Which player are you most looking forward to watching and why?
Since LeBron and the Lakers have been knocked out, I’m excited to see how Kyrie Irving is going to perform. He’s been itching for the play-offs so I’m looking forward to seeing what he’s got.
Which team are you most looking forward to watching?
I’m excited to see the Milwaukee Bucks this year because of the season that they’ve had so far. Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the most exciting plays in the league right now.
Which team, if any, do you see flopping?
I definitely see Oklahoma City Thunder out of the picture. I think Russell Westbrook needs more support - you can’t wain a title all on your own.
Who will win the Eastern Conference and why?
Since LeBron moved to the Lakers, the East is tough this year! I can’t call it between Boston and Milwaukee because they’re both very tough teams.
Who will win the Western Conference and why?
Without a doubt the Golden State Warriors! But if they come across the Houston Rockets, that could be exciting.
Who will be the NBA champion and why?
Golden State Warriors. They just have too much fire power on their team in every position.
Lewis Champion - Point Guard
Which player are you most looking forward to watching and why?
I’m excited to watch Houton's James Harden (the MVP) and D’Angelo Russell of Brooklyn. They are my two favourite my favourite players in the NBA, plus they are both left handed like me.
Which team are you most looking forward to watching?
I don’t really have a specific team that I like to watch, I just like watching specific players.
Which team, if any, do you see flopping?
I can’t see any of the big teams not making it through the early rounds, but if I had to pick a team that I’d like to see flop and to get knocked out at anytime, I’d say Golden State Warriors.
Who will win the Eastern Conference and why?
I want Toronto to come out of the East. I like the way they play and I enjoy watching Kawhi Leonard.
Who will win the Western Conference and why?
It will probably be Golden State, but I really hope Harden shows up in the playoffs and Houston come out of the West.
Who will be the NBA champion and why?
Golden State will probably win it all because they have all-stars in every position, but I really hope that doesn’t happen. I’d love to see the Rockets or Raptors win it all if possible. They are both really good teams and have both had great seasons.
