2011 Playoff Preview: West Round 2

4. Oklahoma City Thunder   v.   8. Memphis Grizzlies

Regular Season Matchup:  3-1 Memphis

Overview: The Thunder were able to take care of the Nuggets in 5.  The Grizzlies added to history by defeated the no. 1 seeded San Antonio Spurs.  The Grizzlies team is big and tough, a combination that works better in the playoffs.  Unlike the Spurs, the Thunder have the bodies down low to match up with Gasol and Randolph.  The perimeter defenders will also make it tougher for Durant to control the game.  Homecourt advantage plays a big role for both of these teams that are in new territory after each franchises' first playoff series wins.

Key Matchups: Ibaka/Perkins vs. Randolph/Gasol.  The big bodies of the Grizzlies will be matched up against two keys to the Grizzlies success.  If the Thunder can keep the Grizzlies off the boards, then it could be tough for Memphis to score.

Prediction: Ultimately, Memphis is a little satisfied with winning in round one. Oklahoma City in 6.

2. Los Angeles Lakers   vs.   3. Dallas Mavericks

Regular Season Match-up: 2-1 Lakers 

Overview: This is the first time these teams have met in the playoffs in over 20 years which is surprising considering the success of both teams over the past decade.  The Mavericks have been asking for the match up for some time, but I don't understand why.  The Lakers are bigger and more athletic than the Mavericks.  The Mavericks also have a tendency to under-perform in the playoffs.  When the Lakers come with a big line-up, Tyson Chandler, Shawn Marion, and Dirk Nowitzki will have to try and match-up.

Key Matchups: Tyson Chandler vs. Andrew Bynum.  When Bynum contributes, the Lakers don't lose.  With Chandler finally stabilizing the interior defense for the Mavericks, this match-up will decide who wins this series.

Prediction: The Lakers don's slouch now that the games matter, and I don't see Jason Kidd exposing the Lakers' weakness at the 1 spot.  Los Angeles in 5.