First-Round NBA Playoff Predictions

The NBA Playoffs tip-off today. Here are my picks for who will advance out of each series:

Eastern Conference
(#1) Atlanta Hawks vs. (#8) Brooklyn Nets
The Nets were fortunate to qualify for the post-season. The Hawks have stumbled of late but 60 wins is 60 wins.
Hawks take the series.
(#2) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (#7) Boston Celtics
LeBron's in Cleveland. The Celtics, though playing great late-season basketball, are still rebuilding.
Cavaliers will advance.
(#3) Chicago Bulls vs. (#6) Milwaukee Bucks
Derrick Rose is back at almost-full strength for the playoffs. Milwaukee had a surprisingly positive regular season to make the postseason, even earning a 6 seed.
Bulls will move on.
(#4) Toronto Raptors vs. (#5) Washington Wizards
The Raptors struggled mightily in the second half of the season. Washington has veteran players with considerable post-season experience.
Wizards will advance to the second round.

Western Conference
(#1) Golden State Warriors vs. (#8) New Orleans Pelicans
Though Steph Curry deservedly garners lots of time on SportsCenter, the Warriors rank high in both offensive AND defensive categories as a team. That's how you lead the league in wins with 67. The Pelicans, led by Anthony Davis, have reached the post-season, thereby achieving a preseason goal.
Warriors will move forward.
(#2) Houston Rockets vs. (#7) Dallas Mavericks
James Harden in an MVP candidate. Dwight Howard plays like he's serious in the playoffs. The Mavericks are deep and Rick Carlisle is a solid coach.
Houston in a close series.
(#3) Los Angeles Clippers vs. (#6) San Antonio Spurs
The Clippers may have the best starting five in basketball, though their bench has struggled. The Spurs may live to regret losing their final regular season game to the Pelicans which dropped them from a 2 seed to a 6 seed in the powerful Western Conference.
Spurs to take the series (I learned long ago not to pick against them). However, the Clippers could be world championship contenders.
(4) Portland Trailblazers vs. (5) Memphis Grizzlies
Injuries have impacted both teams late in the regular season. But Wesley Matthews won't be back for Portland while Mike Conley and Tony Allen hope to play for Memphis.
Memphis should take the series.