Rory & Mal’s Second Round NBA Playoff Picks & Predictions

I need my redemption. I need my money back.

We’re looking at the board for the second round of the NBA Playoffs, and there are some interesting series prices up.

Let’s get into it.

Knicks vs. 76ers

Hard Rock Bet had the Knicks at -260 and the Sixers at +210 for the series before Game 1.

I’m just going to admit it right now – I’m not being objective here. I’ve got the Knicks. I can’t go with Philly. I just can’t.

This is for the whole series, not Game 1 or anything. Whole series.

Spurs vs. Timberwolves

Next up, Spurs vs. Timberwolves. I’m taking the Spurs here.

Look, I’d love to see the Timberwolves win – shoutout Julius, that’s my guy – but I don’t know if they’re getting through this. Anthony Edwards is back from the knee hyperextension, which helps, but still…

Wemby is Wemby. Castle, the whole squad – they’ve got everything. They look like a team that can go all the way.

So yeah, I’m riding with the Spurs.

Thunder vs. Lakers

Thunder are -2000. Lakers are +900.

Listen, the Thunder are the Thunder. If you pick them to win it all, no one’s arguing with you.

But LeBron is balling right now.

There’s actually a world where this becomes a career-defining moment – and that’s saying something. If he beats OKC at this age? That’s insane. We’ve never seen a 41-year-old play like this.

If he takes down the best team in the league, that’s a different conversation entirely…but yeah, it’s probably not happening.

I’m taking OKC. We’re all taking OKC.

Let’s be realistic – as good as LeBron has been, the Lakers just don’t have enough.

Pistons vs. Cavaliers

Last one: Pistons vs. Cavaliers. Cavs sitting at +100.

This one’s tough. I’m going Detroit. I think it goes to seven games.

That Raptors series went seven, but they found themselves.

Cade Cunningham looks like he gets it now. Playoff intensity is different, and they adjusted.

I think Detroit pulls it off.

I’ve got Pistons in six.