NBA Playoffs: Best East Scenarios for Cavs

Feb 28, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) holds the ball as Miami Heat forward Udonis Haslem (40) defends during the second half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

#1 Atlanta Vs. #8 Miami or Indiana

The Atlanta Hawks have taken the #1 seed in the East and are likely the most difficult team the Cavs will face before the NBA Finals. Anything that makes their road more bumpy, or takes them out, would be good for the Cavs.

Currently the Miami Heat are a half game up on the Boston Celtics for the 8th seed. They are 1 game back of the Brooklyn Nets for the 7th seed. The Heat have been hurt by injuries but, when healthy, could make things difficult for either the Cavs or Hawks. We prefer it is the Hawks. With Dwyane Wade, Hassan Whiteside and Goran Dragic, the Heat have enough firepower to make a series difficult.

The Indiana Pacers are currently 1.5 games back of the Heat but still have a shot to make the playoffs. With David West, Roy Hibbert, George Hill and C.J. Miles, the Pacers have given the Cavs a tough time. Paul George could return in time for the Playoffs as well. Even if the Pacers can’t beat the Hawks, they will beat them up and tire them out.

The other good of either the Heat or the Pacers in the 8th seed is that the Cavs wouldn’t have to face them until the Eastern Conference Finals, if they make it.

Next: #2 Vs #7