Hey all, thought I would put up a thread for the first weekend of playoff action. Once again in this crazy season, the next game is upon us before we can digest the last one; one whole day off for the league between the end of the regular season and the start of the playoffs. Matchups (and a bit of off-the cuff, unreasearched commentary) after the jump

Saturday:

Philly at Chicago, 12pm CDT: Hard to see how Philly really competes in this one; they got off to a great start this year based on an easy early schedule, have faded badly and can't really match up with the Bulls.

Knicks at Miami, 2:30pm: Intriguing. Knicks have been playing terrific ball since Mike Woodson took over, though the reinsertion of a limited STAT doesn't really help them. Miami has been faltering, but I assume they will turn it back up for the playoffs. Could be a good series, Heat should advance.

Orlando at Indiana, 6pm: No Howard, obviously. Indiana is deep, and should win. Still, if Orlando starts making 3s, they could push the Pacers a bit.

Dallas at OKC, 8:30pm: Defending champs aren't the same, clearly. Ultimately, I don't know if OKC gets there this year, but I do think they will have enough to get by Dallas, who are just looking old. Old sometimes comes to life in the playoffs, but I don't think so this year.

Sunday:

Utah at San Antonio, 12pm: Utah has a lot of big bodies to throw at a somewhat limited SA front line, but the Spurs are playing better than anyone and aren't going out to an 8th seed two years in a row.

Denver at Lakers, 2:30pm: Can Denver use their depth and running ability to cause the Lakers trouble? Maybe. I wouldn't bet on it, but I sort of like this as a possible upset series.

Boston at Atlanta, 6pm: Celtics much better late in the season. Bradley a revelation, KG has had a tremendous year. Don't think Atlanta can overcome. Boston with one last (probably futile) rage.

Clippers at Memphis, 8:30pm: Vinnie del Negro in the playoffs! Memphis seems to be a team everyone likes in the playoffs because of their toughness and defense. I do too, at least in this series. Chris Paul is the best player in the series, but I don't think he's enough. Clippers learn something. Like they need a new coach.

Enjoy the playoffs, everyone.