The NBA Play-in tournament starts tonight and I wanted to put my thoughts and predictions out in the the world before the ball is tipped. Let’s just focus on the first games tonight:

First up, Cleveland Cavaliers at the Brooklyn Nets. The Cavs have had a very unexpectedly successful season with their unorthodox big-man dependent while the Nets have been at the other end of the spectrum with Kyrie not getting vaccinated all season and James Harden traded out (at his request) for a still inactive Ben Simmons.

Bottom line – Kevin Durant is unstoppable when he is determined to be and he will be just that tonight. My prediction? Nets win the game to take the #7 spot in this weekend’s NBA Playoffs in the Eastern Conference.

In the second game tonight the LA Clippers are at the Minnesota Timberwolves. The young Wolves are brash and hungry led by Karl-Anthony Towns’ offense and Patrick Beverley’s defense. Paul George is back with the Clippers and they’re starting to round into form, unfortunately for the Clips they have to be on the road which I think will make the difference in this one.

My prediction? T-wolves win and get the #7 seed in the Western Conference side of the NBA Playoffs.