2021 NBA Playoffs: 5 Bold predictions for Round 1 of Eastern Conference matchups

#3 The Boston Celtics will take a few games off the Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets will be favorites against the Celtics in the Eastern Conference playoffs round 1 matchup.

The general consensus amongst fans and analysts is that the Brooklyn Nets will sweep the Jaylen Brown-less Boston Celtics. But there is certainly a likelihood of Brad Stevens' men taking the Nets to six games in the Eastern Conference Round 1 matchup.

The Brooklyn Nets' defense hasn't been particularly impressive. That's the biggest chink in their armor, which players like Jayson Tatum and Kemba Walker have the ability to exploit. Tatum exploded for 50 points against the Wizards and there is a low probability of the Celtics getting swept if they have him fully fit for the series.

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#2 The Washington Wizards will take the Philadelphia 76ers to seven games

Russell Westbrook was brilliant in the Eastern Conference Play-In tournament.

At the beginning of the campaign, very few people would have bet on the Wizards reaching the playoffs. But after a solid outing in the regular season and the Play-In tournament, they are all set to take on the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The 76ers' record and strength of the roster point towards a sweep. But this Washington Wizards side has two in-form players in Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal amongst their ranks, which could make things tricky for the no. 1 seed in the East.

Beal and Westbrook have been among the best performers of the season. There is a chance that the Wizards will take the 76ers to seven games purely on the basis of the talent of their two stars.

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#1 James Harden will be the best player for the Brooklyn Nets against the Boston Celtics

James Harden will be the Brooklyn Nets' trump card in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Kevin Durant is inarguably the best player on the Brooklyn Nets. However, there is a likelihood that James Harden will play the starring role for Steve Nash's team against the Celtics.

Before he went down with injury, Harden was getting MVP shouts. The former OKC Thunder player has taken over point guard duties in Brooklyn since joining the team. It wouldn't be surprising if Harden averages close to a triple-double in the Eastern Conference playoff series against the Boston Celtics.