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NBA Playoffs Day 3 Breakdown

By Jared Mueller

Apr 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry and head coach Steve Kerr react after a Warriors basket against the Houston Rockets in the first quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry and head coach Steve Kerr react after a Warriors basket against the Houston Rockets in the first quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Day 3 of the NBA Playoffs is in the books and some intrigue has finally come not involving the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Again we will breakdown each day of the NBA Playoffs, specifically looking how each result could/does impact the Cavs. The first two days can be found here:

Day 1     Day 2

Now on to Day 3 of the NBA Playoffs which had 3 games on the board.

Pacers Vs Raptors

After taking the first game on the road, the Pacers came out flat against the #2 seeded Raptors. Paul George‘s foul trouble and shots not falling were huge early in the game. Indiana made the game close but spent a lot of energy on the comeback, just falling short.

For the Raptors, this has been Jonas Valanciunas‘ breakout series. With 23 points and 15 boards, the Big V took advantage of the inside game of the Pacers. Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan still can’t find their shots but at least the bulldog point guard made sure to get to the foul line.

The longer this series goes, the better for the Cavs. They should have some concern with the Raptors big man breaking out as he has the size to make things tough on Tristan Thompson, Kevin Love and Channing Frye down low. Add in Lowry and DeRozan likely to come back to form and the Raptors are tough.

George is the best player in this series but needs some help to win 4 games.

Series: 1 – 1 Tie

Mavericks Vs Thunder

In a surprise result, the Mavs beating the Thunder after a terrible Game 1 was it. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook abused the rim, missing a combined 40 shots last night. The Thunder still almost won even with their performances.

The Mavs were paced by a random great game by Raymond Felton and balanced scoring from Deron Williams and Dirk Nowitzki. Barely heard of Salah Mejri chipped in 12 points, 3 rebounds and 3 blocks for a team best +17.

Possibly the kick in the pants the Thunder need, a game like this would be cause for grave concern against the Warriors. The Cavs need the Thunder and Clippers to make things tough for the two big boys out West. This game does not create confidence that they can do so.

Series: 1 – 1 Tie

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Rockets Vs Warriors

The big development here was that Stephen Curry‘s ankle did not allow him to play. The Warriors still got the win but Curry’s health will likely be the story of the NBA Playoffs.

The Warriors may have the easiest series of all as the Rockets look like a shell of themselves. Their lack of defense, poor team chemistry and overall lack of talent is clear. It wouldn’t be shocking to see the Warriors rest Steph another game at this point. With Patrick Beverley annoying defense, protecting their star is huge.

Series: 2 – 0 Warriors

Anything stand out to you from last night’s NBA Playoffs matchups that might impact the Cavs?