NBA Conference Semifinal Predictions:

Western Conference:

Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers: 

Prediction: Lakers in 5

Houston has had a nice run but Kobe and the Lakers will be too much for them to handle. Though the Rockets have a good team from top to bottom, star players usually dominate playoff series and Houston can't match L.A.'s stars. The Lakers should run away with this series early. The Rockets will be lucky if they can win one of their home games.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Denver Nuggets:

Prediction: Denver in 6

Dallas had a very good opening series against the Spurs but probably won't be able to match up with the soaring Nuggets. Denver embarrassed a quality Hornets team in their opening round match-up and are playing their best basketball when it matters most. Chauncey Billups has been a huge addition to this team and brings with him a winning attitude. I think Billups and Anthony will be too much for the Mavericks' defense to contend with.

Eastern Conference:

Atlanta Hawks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers:

Prediction: Cleveland in 5

Atlanta knocked off Dwayne Wade in the opening round but will now have to deal with another star from that 2003 draft class in Lebron James. James and the rest of the Cavs are unstoppable right now. Cleveland blew past the Pistons in the first round in 4 games and with the home court advantage shouldn't have much trouble in round two as well. The Hawks are a good team but this match-up doesn't favor them. Atlanta's only hope is to steal one of the first two games so the series is tied heading back home. Look for the Cavs to keep the pressure on in round two. They are a team on a mission right now and are clicking on all cylinders.

Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics:

Prediction: Orlando in 6

Boston had an epic 7 game first round series against the Chicago Bulls. Four of the games went into overtime including a triple overtime loss to the Bulls in game 6. The Celtics will need more than just luck to knock off the Magic in the second round. The extended series could come back to haunt the defending champs that are already without their big star Kevin Garnett. Without Garnett Boston lacks an inside presence to answer Orlando's star Dwight Howard. Though the Magic can't match-up on the perimeter with Boston's shooters they should own the inside with Howard leading the way.