NBA Playoff Game Thread: April 16, 2019

Thanks to suggestions from you, our loyal readers, we make sure to give the people what they want! Without further ado, the official Brew Hoop Playoff thread is here. On the Bucks off-nights, we’ll create a spot to stir the discussion stew surrounding how other teams are faring in their own fight for a title. Tonight, three games are on tap:

Orlando Magic vs. Toronto Raptors (ORL leads 1-0)

Time: 7:00 pm (TNT)

The stakes: After a typical Toronto performance dropping game one, they look to bounce back and nab one home win before the series shifts to the Magic’s territory. Anything that makes the Raptors looks more vulnerable has to be cool with Bucks fans.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Denver Nuggets (SA leads 1-0)

Time: 8:00 pm (NBATV)

The stakes: Denver is composed of players making their first real foray into the Playoff waters, and they tasted the well-seasoned sauce of San Antonio under Pop’s leadership in game one. Jamal Murray bricked some clutch buckets late, so they’ll hope for a chance to get back on track.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Portland Trail Blazers (POR lead 1-0)

Time: 9:30pm (TNT)

The stakes: Portland just feels like a team that needs a first round win after last year’s embarrassing sweep at the wings of the Pelicans. Either of these teams seem like they could give the Warriors a decent fight should they advance that far, although I’d prefer Portland get a crack at them given the injury concerns surrounding Paul George at the moment.

*All tip times are in CST.

Please sure to follow the SB Nation community guidelines and happy commenting! See ya tomorrow for Bucks-Pistons Game 2.