NBA Playoff Roundup – Nuggets Force Game Seven, Two Series End

There were three games last night in the NBA Playoffs, and while Boston and Philadelphia finished off Atlanta and Chicago, respectively, Denver pushed Los Angeles to a game seven.

Philadelphia 79 - Chicago 78

The 76ers became the fifth 8 seed in NBA Playoff history to beat a 1 seed. Not to take away anything from what Philadelphia did, but the Bulls weren't exactly playing with the same team that went 50-16 in the regular season. Derrick Rose tore his ACL at the end of game one, and Joakim Noah grotesquely sprained his ankle in game three. Still, that's not Philadelphia's problem; injuries happen to everyone. Andre Iguodala knocked down two free throws in the final seconds to give the 76ers the win and a second round date with the Boston Celtics.  

Boston 83 - Atlanta 80

It seems like every year we hear how Atlanta has matured and is ready to take the next step. Then they don't. Boston was just more experienced, more ready, and playoff-proven. Despite having home court advantage, the Hawks just couldn't get past Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo. Boston closed out the series at home, taking it 4-2. Atlanta's Al Horford had a chance to tie the game with three seconds left, but missed a free throw. Practice your free throws, kids, you never know when you might have the chance to tie or win a game in the final seconds. Boston hosts Philadelphia Saturday in game one of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals.

Denver 113 - Los Angeles Lakers 96

Kobe Bryant was having stomach issues, and watching Ty Lawson torch the Lakers for 31 probably didn't help. Kobe led his team with 31, but once again the Lakers big men didn't really show up. Andrew Bynum had 16 rebounds, but didn't help much on offense and neither did Pau Gasol. Denver looked like they wanted it more throughout the game. The Lakers now have to go back to L.A. and pull out a game seven win, or else face another offseason of questions and disappointment. Don't be surprised if Denver pulls off the upset.

Article by Eric Gray