Eastern Conference finals (Best-of-7 series)
Heat vs. Nuggets: Game 1 Thursday at Denver, 8:30 p.m., ABC
Latest line: Nuggets favored by 8 1/2 points in Game 1
Ira Winderman, Heat Writer: Heat in 6
Logic has left the room, but what remains is a team open to any and every challenge. With the multiple two-day breaks during the Finals, the added time off, even with the travel, should be beneficial for Jimmy Butler. Yes, the Nuggets have Nikola Jokic, but the Heat have the phenom that has become Caleb Martin. Consider Bam Adebayo a swing vote in the series. As has been the case in the Heat’s first three series, stealing an early one on the road could be key.
Dave Hyde, Sports Columnist: Heat in 7
Denver has more accomplished talent starting with two-time league MVP Nikola Jokic. So, the question becomes what’s the most difficult way for the Heat to do it, because that’s become their routine. Eighth seed. Winning in Boston in Game 7. Throw in winning in Denver for another Game 7 and this becomes the greatest playoff run in NBA history.
Kathy Laughlin, Sports Editor: Heat in 7
Really, the Nuggets seem like they should win, but didn’t the Bucks and Celtics seem like they were going to steamroll the Heat? The undersized Heat certainly will have their hands full trying to slow down Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic. Also benefitting top-seeded Denver is they’ve had plenty of rest after sweeping the Lakers. But I’m sure not betting against Miami.
Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor: Nuggets in 7
Simply put, Denver is the better team. But so were the Celtics. Like Boston, Denver is heavy favorites to win the series and is 8 1/2-point favorites in Game 1 for good reason. However, don’t ever underestimate the Heat, who surprisingly dismantled top-seed Milwaukee and No. 2 Boston after barely surviving the play-in tournament. The next big test for Miami is Nikola Jokic, who poses the ultimate challenge for Erik Spoelstra’s team.
