As round two of the NBA playoffs begins, things are starting to heat up. There have been a lot of highlights and big time plays already. A lot of players have been showing up and showing out each game, and it really shows. It especially shows for the point guard of the Memphis Grizzlies, the NBA’s Most Improved Player of the Year, Ja Morant.

“Each game I’ve watched Ja play he had an insane game,” senior Bryce Kalie says.

“Jayson Tatum has been an absolute force for the Boston Celtics,” senior Jacob Cooper says. 

Through the games so far there have been a lot of players, including the ones talked about previously, that have really brought everything they have to each game.

“A player I have seen that looks like he will have a very bright future is Jordan Poole,” Bryce said. “So far in the regular season and, especially now in the playoffs, Poole has put all his skills on display. His handles, basketball IQ, and all-around skill has really caught my eye.” 

The matchups in the Eastern Conference include, No. 1 Miami Heat vs. No. 4 Philadelphia 76ers and No. 2 Boston Celtics vs. No. 3 Milwaukee Bucks. The matchups in the Western Conference are No. 1 Phoenix Suns vs. No. 4 Dallas Mavericks and No. 2 Memphis Grizzlies vs. No 3. Golden State Warriors.

“In the Eastern Conference I think that the Heat and Celtics will move on to the conference finals with the Celtics moving on to the Finals,” Jacob said. “Then, in the Western Conference, I think the Suns and Warriors will go to the conference finals with the Suns going to the finals. As of right now I can’t say who I think would win, but that’s what I like about this years playoffs.

Bryce agreed with Jacob.

“[I]wanted to add that, personally, I think that the Suns have a really good chance at going all the way this year,” Bryce said. “Altogether, it’s all up in the air because anything can happen.”