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r/NBA Poll: Who will win the 2023 NBA Finals - the Denver Nuggets or the Miami Heat? (self.nba)

submitted by The Splash Brothers!Nyhrox

Denver Nuggets will battle against the Miami Heat in the 2023 NBA Finals. Will 2x MVP Nikola Jokic continue his dominance and bring a championship to Denver? Will Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat complete their fairytale of a season with all the gold?

Comment down below the series score

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[–]NuggetsMrOneTwo11 773 points774 points  (25 children)

I just hope nuggets don't go 0-3 down, then tie up the series, and end up losing on game 7. That sounds like the worst thing ever

[–]MostBotsAreBad 173 points174 points  (10 children)

It's ugly as hell, especially if Game 7 is crap.

[–]CelticsShazlettDude 114 points115 points  (8 children)

I honestly personally feel better how it ended than if it was a sweep. Doing what hasn’t been done (in NBA) is hard and I can live with that.

[–]Heatklydon24 21 points22 points  (5 children)

How would you have felt if was a first round match as it would've originally been without the play in? I feel the way things fell saved you guys from a massive shake up, whether that's good or bad we'll see.

[–]CelticsShazlettDude 3 points4 points  (4 children)

In what context? Does the series just happen the exact same, but in the first round? Or is this about how I think it would have played out differently because being in the first round. All of this as if there was no play in.

[–]Heatklydon24 7 points8 points  (3 children)

That's a good question. For the sake of this I guess say it plays out the same way just in round 1.

[–]CelticsShazlettDude 17 points18 points  (2 children)

Well then, I’d feel worse. 1st round exist suck. Happens, but sucks. At least it being the ECFs game 7 after making the finals year before and being in the ECF fairly frequently recently at least give this bitterness a little bit of sweetness to hold on to. We are still youngish. It’s about time our stars to hit their ceilings and we are at least legitimately in the conversation for near future for now. As long as we extend JB. Whether we keep or sign and trade JB, we will see. I believe he will be in green next year.

[–]Heatklydon24 4 points5 points  (1 child)

Well, allegedly, JB is in the process of buying 2 condos to merge in Seaport so he's probably planning on getting that max deal and staying. Whether management has different ideas is another question. I think if you guys get rid of anyone it's Smart or Timelord.

[–]CelticsShazlettDude 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Yeah they are more likely candidates. But I’m hopeful we get something near value back. I’m decently confident in our front office. I’m too much of “I just want keep everyone” for the most part so I don’t spend a lot of time thinking about trades. A legitimate playmaker would be nice. I’m sure JB would appreciate it too 😂.

[–]MostBotsAreBad 3 points4 points  (0 children)

The series was absolutely electric, and great for both teams, but Game 7 just wasn't a good game. Tatum, Brown, Brogdon all injured; Williams so sick he was throwing up during timeouts. The Celtics weren't in a position to play a good game.

Of course, that's why you try not to let the series go to seven games in the first place. But them's the breaks.

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      [–][PHO] Charles Barkleydillonyousonofabitch 20 points21 points  (0 children)

      Or win the first two and feel like your franchise was about to win its first championship, then lose 4 in a row. Gee that would suck.

      [–][GSW] Shaun Livingstonnotabear629 8 points9 points  (8 children)

      It'd be funny if they actually did do that except win game 7.

      Honestly kinda rooting for it now just to really twist the dagger in Celtics fan's hearts

      [–]CelticsConfirmation__Bias 18 points19 points  (7 children)

      Lol if you want the Celtics to look as bad as possible then you should just be hoping for a Denver sweep

      [–][GSW] Shaun Livingstonnotabear629 2 points3 points  (6 children)

      It wouldn't be to make you look bad, it would be to inflict suffering there's a big difference there

      [–]CelticsConfirmation__Bias 4 points5 points  (5 children)

      And I'm telling you that a Denver sweep would cause Celtics fans more suffering than any form of competitive series, whether its an 0-3 comeback or not

      [–][GSW] Shaun Livingstonnotabear629 1 point2 points  (4 children)

      But is that really the case? If denver is completely dominant then I feel like "we weren't beating them anyway" is a very easy cope.

      I think Denver pulling off a 3-0 comeback against the Heat in the same circumstance as you would be like "we couldn't finish the job, we wanted to be that history, we couldn't, they did" AND it would make Denver look beatable and therefore make that trophy seem more attainable.

      Personally, if I was a Cs fan I think Denver sweep is an easy copium

      [–]CelticsConfirmation__Bias 3 points4 points  (3 children)

      Why would I feel better about realizing we didn’t have a chance against Denver? That’s not ‘cope’, that’s just pure sadness

      [–]Unfair_Wafer_6220 1 point2 points  (2 children)

      Alternatively, what if the Heat absolutely dominate Denver? Wouldn't that be max sadness, since not choking in game 7 would almost guarentee a ring?

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        [–]sportstookmysoul 546 points547 points  (35 children)

        I just want both teams to have fun!

        [–]Knicksthy_armageddon 85 points86 points  (3 children)

        This person gets it.

        [–]Samecake1 43 points44 points  (1 child)

        In the end, the real trophy was friendship

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          [–]HawksS-Kotus 65 points66 points  (0 children)

          Russ?

          [–]NuggetsInkBlotSam 31 points32 points  (3 children)

          As long as there are orange slices afterward I don't care what happens in the game.

          [–]RaptorsSleepingInAJar_ 12 points13 points  (2 children)

          My mom said she’s bringing fruit gushers

          [–][deleted] 6 points7 points  (1 child)

          I’ll bring the cafecito and cubanos

          [–]HawksDorkandPoon 22 points23 points  (0 children)

          Win lose or draw… just have fun

          [–][deleted] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

          This is such a Chris Traeger moment

          [–]Pacersmizzourifan1 5 points6 points  (0 children)

          "You better fucking smile." - Joe Mazzulla

          [–]Celticsjotyma5 4 points5 points  (0 children)

          Adam silver?

          [–]MostBotsAreBad 7 points8 points  (1 child)

          Seriously, I'm a Celtics fan, and I'm still happy to see these two teams in the Finals. This is the feel-good end to the season I didn't think we'd possibly get.

          [–]HikingGally[🍰] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

          Another Celtics fan here! I totally agree. I’d be happy with either team winning

          [–]Heat BandwagonGadooosh_ThereItIs 2 points3 points  (0 children)

          I want there to be some FIGHTS

          [–]BigDickBrethren 5 points6 points  (0 children)

          In the end, the real trophy was friendship

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            [–]crichmond77 208 points209 points  (27 children)

            I think it’s Denver. They’re honestly just a great team and Jokic is unreal.

            But then again, I didn’t think Miami would make it this far.

            Hope it’s a great series. I’ll say Nuggets in 6

            [–]Kingssoda_cookie 14 points15 points  (1 child)

            Nuggs in a half dozen sounds right.

            [–]AcadsdNamg 72 points73 points  (23 children)

            And if AD couldn't slow down Joker, what is Bam going to do.

            [–]HeatAsPeHeat 34 points35 points  (7 children)

            People need to understand that there’s more to basketball than just 1-on-1 matchups.

            It feels like we hear “X isn’t gonna stop Y” in every single series, yet people don’t understand that there are 8-10 other players on the court as well.

            Yes, Jokic is a beast and Bam will likely struggle against him. But that’s just one of hundreds of factors that will impact the series

            [–]glorstonne 2 points3 points  (0 children)

            The hell are you talking about

            Talking like youve played sports before or something in real life smh

            [–][deleted] -1 points0 points  (4 children)

            In addition to this, Bam is stronger than AD with a lower center of gravity and he has better lateral quickness. Taller, lankier centers with high center of gravity have a harder time holding ground against Jokic. Players like Draymond, Rui, LeBron, PJ, etc have had more success guarding Jokic than most traditional centers.

            I think Bam might be able to defend Jokic better than the other centers these playoffs.

            [–]Bullsdev1lbunny 1 point2 points  (0 children)

            They broke down the Bam vs Jokic matchup on the Lowe podcast, and Bam's been bodied every single time its a one on one. They've also tried Jimmy on Jokic with Bam as help with little success as well. There's a reason the Heat haven't beaten Denver since 2018, talent aside, the matchups are just so disadvantageous

            [–]Amazing-Row-5963 1 point2 points  (2 children)

            If he can't back him down, he will just go over the top or around, even easier.

            Jokic is not 1 dimensional.

            [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

            I never said Jokic is one dimensional? All I am saying is I think Bam is stronger and he may be harder to move around than some of the other lankier centers with higher center of gravity.

            [–]Amazing-Row-5963 3 points4 points  (0 children)

            Never said that you said that Jokic is one dimensional. All I am saying that a smaller center like Bam will have different problems with Jokic.

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              [–]Bullschitownbulls92 34 points35 points  (10 children)

              Bam is probably a better option to pressure jokic on the perimeter and forcing him to make tougher passes. Bam is a better “all levels” defender than AD. AD is just the far superior shot blocker

              [–]TaxWizard69 44 points45 points  (7 children)

              The big difference is AD needed to be everything to the Lakers. Miami's offense is well balanced where Bam could focus more on defense and finding easy buckets here. Not sure if that's enough though.

              [–]Bullschitownbulls92 31 points32 points  (0 children)

              Yeah not saying bam is going to stop jokic but bam is an elite defender

              [–]Heatiliveonramen 9 points10 points  (0 children)

              That’s a big difference. His USAG rate was the about the same as Jimmy Butlers. AD is then running back to guard Jokic.

              [–][SAC] Isaiah ThomasNickLidstrom 8 points9 points  (4 children)

              They might have a well balanced offence but the Nuggets offence is a completely different animal from the Celtics. It might be tough for the Heat to keep up if Bam repeats his ECF performance and if Herro doesn't return

              [–]loxleynew 2 points3 points  (3 children)

              Tbh Herro makes them worse with his ball hog weird shots. Reason they made it so far was because he isn't in the lineup.

              [–]loxleynew 3 points4 points  (0 children)

              This is just not true based on history

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                  [–]MostBotsAreBad 9 points10 points  (0 children)

                  If Jokic has a good series, no jinx, Nuggets in 5 or 6.

                  I know, the Heat have been playing at 120%, but surely. Surely.

                  [–]MixInfamous6818 365 points366 points  (56 children)

                  nobody believes in Miami 4th round in a row

                  [–]honestnbafan 189 points190 points  (6 children)

                  3rd round out of 4 I'd say

                  The media picked the Knicks because New York but I feel like half or slightly more of people here picked the Heat

                  [–]Heatmasterofbeast 103 points104 points  (1 child)

                  The only series I thought we would win.

                  [–]DisastrxdousFactor 9 points10 points  (0 children)

                  In the end, the real trophy was friendship

                  [–]Heat305TIFD 31 points32 points  (0 children)

                  Betting odds also favored New York until after Game 2

                  [–]Bullschitownbulls92 15 points16 points  (0 children)

                  Vegas odds were for Knicks and media votes were mostly knicks.

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                    [–]Heatsyncc6 16 points17 points  (1 child)

                    Wouldn’t have it any other way

                    [–]Warriorsfatkamp 15 points16 points  (0 children)

                    Everyone believed against the Knicks

                    [–]ThunderNext-Firefighter-753 6 points7 points  (0 children)

                    I picked them to beat the Knicks I had them losing to Milwaukee and Boston though

                    [–]Knowledxdge9 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                    I just want both teams to have fun!

                    [–]Mavericksdmavs11 6 points7 points  (2 children)

                    I wouldn’t say nobody against the Celtics. I definitely felt Miami was gonna win that one.

                    [–]SpursAlternative_Slide_62 2 points3 points  (7 children)

                    Nobody believed Denver either though

                    [–]LakersMusa_2050 11 points12 points  (0 children)

                    You guys were favored in 2 rounds lol

                    [–]BullsGoobershmacked 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                    Not at all to the same extent

                    [–]j_etti 10 points11 points  (4 children)

                    Why do people keep repeating this garbage lmao, it was never popular opinion that this Denver team would flop in the postseason

                    [–][UTA] Mike ConleySometimesIComplain 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                    I feel like it was a pretty popular take prior to the playoffs that they wouldn't make it to the finals

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                      [–]Nuggetsshomii 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                      Except this is not an Eastern conference trash team.

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                        [–]Celticsjotyma5 60 points61 points  (10 children)

                        Imagine if the heat take out bucks, Celtics and nuggets….

                        [–]Piotr-Rasputin 59 points60 points  (7 children)

                        Probably the greatest run ever. Jimmy gonna have to drop 50 and a triple double EVERY NIGHT. If Spolestra solves Jokic phenomenal play, greatest coaching ever

                        [–]Heatiamaweirdguy 16 points17 points  (0 children)

                        Well they only need 4 wins so technically he only has to do that in 4/7 games and he can rest the other 3.

                        In all seriousness, anything can happen. Looking forward to watching!

                        [–]HeatBobb_o 12 points13 points  (0 children)

                        No need to score 50 when you have Caleb Martin

                        [–]Heatmyst1227 3 points4 points  (4 children)

                        He came pretty close to doing that in the bubble

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                          [–]NerdSlamPo 182 points183 points  (5 children)

                          Celtics in 12.

                          [–]LakersOsmosisJonesFanClub 102 points103 points  (0 children)

                          "Don't let us get game 11"

                          [–]Lakersradddchaddd 36 points37 points  (1 child)

                          Lakers also have Denver right where they want them.

                          [–]MostBotsAreBad 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                          Way to hang in there! Never give up!

                          [–]TaxWizard69 6 points7 points  (0 children)

                          Nah I picked the Lakers in 14. They will win this moral victory finals

                          [–]Lakersyuhkih 166 points167 points  (0 children)

                          Nuggets are definitely the better team; therefore, heat in 6

                          [–]NuggetsJesus_was_a_Panda 135 points136 points  (6 children)

                          I’m here to predict the Nuggets win. If the Nuggets lose, I will probably edit this to predict the Heat to win.

                          [–]NuggetsManyCookies 26 points27 points  (3 children)

                          Just make two separate posts and delete one

                          [–]Gloomy_Lengthiness71 15 points16 points  (2 children)

                          Absolutely. No one will ever take a screenshot of both posts and make a post about it. Just like that guy that said he would eat a sock if Geno Smith was a top 10 QB in the NFL last year.

                          [–]Heatiliveonramen 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                          Did he eat the sock?

                          [–]Gloomy_Lengthiness71 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                          Only r/nfl knows for sure...

                          [–]Heatiliveonramen 18 points19 points  (1 child)

                          Sorry, pic taken and stored on s thumb drive while copies have been stored on Amazon, Microsoft, and Apple cloud servers. To be safe I printed a copy and buried in my back yard.

                          [–]NuggetsPotencyyyyy 11 points12 points  (0 children)

                          You……….son of a bitch.

                          [–]yetagainitry 20 points21 points  (3 children)

                          Butler hasn’t looked good the last 2 or 3 games. If he isn’t playing like a real mvp, no way Miami can win. Denver isn’t Boston where they’ll give up if they can’t hit 3s. This is a far better coached team than what Miami has faced so far.

                          [–]Heatiamaweirdguy 6 points7 points  (1 child)

                          And the Heat are a far better coached team than the Nuggets have faced so far.

                          [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                          yeah sure, like spo can outcoach the guy in a 78.5 million dollar suit.

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                            [–]honestnbafan 231 points232 points  (32 children)

                            Nuggets in 5

                            Game 1: Heat come out a bit slow in altitude, Denver wins 122-104

                            Game 2: Heat are much more prepared this time and Denver's shooting cools off, but they still pull off a tight one to go up 2-0 at 109-104

                            Game 3: Miami shoot 55% from three and take game 3 121-109

                            Game 4: The game is close the whole way, but Jokic drops 38/15/12 to steal one in Miami and go back to Denver up 3-1 119-114

                            Game 5: Denver get out to an early lead, Miami stay in it but never quite pull all the way back. Denver wins the Finals as they win game 5 120-111

                            Finals MVP: Nikola Jokic(29.7/14.1/9.5 on 63.8% TS)

                            [–][TOR] Pops Mensah-Bonsushakattack917 165 points166 points  (23 children)

                            You can't average odd decimals for points, rebounds, assists in a 5 game series, none of your Jokic stats can exist

                            [–]xdavidliu 30 points31 points  (0 children)

                            r/theydidthemath

                            [–][HOU] Bob Suradocjohnson1395 9 points10 points  (0 children)

                            This sounds like the basis for a good riddle/puzzler

                            [–]RaptorsHydrophobic_Stapler 8 points9 points  (8 children)

                            Technically it is possible since the prediction only says that it's a 5 game series, not that Jokic plays 5 games. Since for basketball purposes averages usually exclude games sat out. Rather unlikely but Jokic could miss one game (probably game 3 in the prediction) and still win FMVP.

                            [–]JCL8661 20 points21 points  (6 children)

                            Still wouldn't be possible with 4 games. If we are rounding to the nearest tenth, the only decimals possible are .3, .5, .8, and .0

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                                [–]WeirdVision1 8 points9 points  (1 child)

                                Perfect. And me in attendance for the chip game. This will do.

                                [–]Celticsjotyma5 0 points1 point  (3 children)

                                Miami will win game 1 and then lose 4 straight

                                [–]loxleynew 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                                No way thry win game 1 after 7 game series then altitude.

                                [–]GlueGuy00 46 points47 points  (6 children)

                                I know this poll will likely be in favor of Nuggets but I'm still rooting for the Heat. At the very least, would like to see a 6 game series. It's more fun if the underdog can give some load to the favorites.

                                [–]NBAItsMeNeeco 22 points23 points  (2 children)

                                I think the Nuggets will win but I’m in a weird place rn. Like, I really want Jimmy to finally win a championship, and this Heat team is really special, the ultimate underdawgs. But at the same time it’s finally time for Jokic to get his flowers and win a championship.

                                I just wish both teams could win lol

                                [–]Heatiamaweirdguy 13 points14 points  (1 child)

                                Because I hate the saying “get his flowers” I’m saying Heat in 4 and Jimmy gonna say fuck your flowers.

                                [–]Sunssuperbakedziti 4 points5 points  (1 child)

                                Share the load.

                                [–]KnicksTonyTonyChopper 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                                ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

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                                  [–]abonet619 82 points83 points  (5 children)

                                  I just want Jimmy to get his ring man.

                                  [–]Lakersizvoodoo 24 points25 points  (1 child)

                                  Yeah. I think Denver's going to win but I want Miami to win. And I have no ill will to Denver. Just jimmy deserves it.

                                  But either team will be a great story

                                  [–][SAC] Isaiah ThomasNickLidstrom 35 points36 points  (0 children)

                                  It's basically the first title for a very deserving superstar but a priveleged fanbase in Jimmy and the Heat vs. a very likeable superstar and underprivileged fanbase in Jokic and the Nuggets. Personally I'm routing for the franchise that has never even been to the finals before, but if the Heat pull it off this will be a legendary run on par with Dirk and Hakeem

                                  [–]Nuggetscheesecake_face 26 points27 points  (1 child)

                                  same here!!

                                  …just not this year

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                                    [–]referee-superfan 38 points39 points  (1 child)

                                    My heart says Miami. My brain says Nuggets.

                                    [–]NuggetsInkBlotSam 15 points16 points  (0 children)

                                    I downvoted your heart, upvoted your brain.

                                    [–][MIA] Jimmy ButlerAway_Championship_49 44 points45 points  (2 children)

                                    This comment says the Nuggets will win. All future attempts to make it seem like I edited and I actually predicted a Heat sweep are globalist-marxist-anarchist propaganda

                                    [–]Nuggetsesteban42 21 points22 points  (0 children)

                                    As of 19:55:21 UTC on May 31, 2023, the above comment was unedited, and read:

                                    This comment says the Nuggets will win. All future attempts to make it seem like I edited and I actually predicted a Heat sweep are globalist-marxist-anarchist propaganda

                                    [–]HeatPesto_Enthusiast 12 points13 points  (0 children)

                                    As of 19:55:21 UTC on May 31, 2023, the above comment was unedited, and read:

                                    This comment says the Heat will win. All future attempts to make it seem like I edited and I actually predicted a Nuggets sweep are globalist-marxist-anarchist propaganda

                                    [–]LakersEdwEd1 38 points39 points  (2 children)

                                    Lakers, Bucks, and Celtics combine to win the moral victory series in 9 games

                                    [–]MostBotsAreBad 13 points14 points  (0 children)

                                    Celtics did NOT have a moral victory. Bucks did not have a . . . anything.

                                    Lakers, eh, whatever. You know what? Both LeBron and AD were healthy enough to play well in the playoffs. That's the victory for them. It's not a morality thing, but good for them.

                                    [–]KobeBeaf 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                                    Hey don’t lump us in with those underachieving bums, we were a 7 seed.

                                    [–]76ersFriendly-Rough-3164 8 points9 points  (3 children)

                                    On paper nugs should have their way with the heat. Best player remaining usually wins and that's Jokic.

                                    However, I've doubted the heat every series and wqs wrong except for the g7 vs boston. So go heat! I don't really care either way I just want 7 games

                                    [–]Heatiamaweirdguy 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                    You picked the Heat to win game 7 vs Boston?

                                    [–]76ersFriendly-Rough-3164 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                    Yes first time I bet on that series took heat -9.5

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                                      [–]Successful-Sky4411 7 points8 points  (2 children)

                                      I'm picking Denver but The Heat should not be underestimated. They can get hot from 3, Jimmy Butler has been the 2nd best performer this post season and Spo is by the far the best Coach.

                                      [–]YourWorstNightmare9 5 points6 points  (0 children)

                                      The short amount of rest for the Heat going into this Finals is absolutely going to kill the Heat in this series. Needed to win the ECF in 6 or less games in order to get Butler and Bam more rest (especially Butler).

                                      [–]dlancon 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                                      I’m going for the heat but I know in my heart the nuggets are taking this. Honestly, I don’t mind either team winning!

                                      [–]PraiseDirk 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                                      I’m cool with either team winning. I got a weird feeling Denver in 5 but the Heat have proven everyone wrong all year long. Would be happy to see Vincent, Martin and Butler get their rings. I just think it’s Jokic year!

                                      [–]76ersSkullripper675 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                                      I've watched every post season game and I also watched a lot of heat and nuggets games this season. Everything I've seen makes me believe that Denver will win the finals.

                                      But everything the Heat have done so far have just really makes me thing Miami will pull some BS out of nowhere to force a game 7 or something.

                                      So Nuggets in 7 (i have no idea)

                                      [–]WarriorsNoobPwnr 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                                      Remember earlier in the season when people were teasing the West for being a mediocre bloodbath.

                                      All the while the 8 seed would wind up taking charge 😅

                                      [–]LakersMewtwoTheMew 20 points21 points  (3 children)

                                      heat in 6 i will speak it into existence

                                      [–]bumhunt 15 points16 points  (2 children)

                                      Nuggets in 4 or 5, if Miami wins I'll delete my account.

                                      Not deleting this comment

                                      [–]blue74821 6 points7 points  (1 child)

                                      Celtics

                                      [–]Piotr-Rasputin 7 points8 points  (0 children)

                                      Mazzula has his starters rested off game 7 so they have a shot

                                      [–]MavericksDimensionNo1153 23 points24 points  (2 children)

                                      Time for the Joker to get his first ring, we witnessing greatness babyyyy

                                      [–]Piotr-Rasputin 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                                      Love his game. Big man that can control the game with minimal effort scoring. Just boards and assists and controlling the offense

                                      [–]MavericksDimensionNo1153 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                      Oh yeah for sure, it's beautiful to watch. I like watching the Heat play too and I respect their strong team mentality, just think Nuggs win this.

                                      [–]original42069 6 points7 points  (1 child)

                                      God yes keep this underdog status going I’m almost there.

                                      And so is Jimmy

                                      [–]HeatFair_University 7 points8 points  (1 child)

                                      Heat in 6

                                      Nuggets

                                      Heat

                                      Nuggets

                                      Heat

                                      Heat

                                      Heat

                                      Finals MVP: Gabe Vincent

                                      [–]Countrykal 5 points6 points  (0 children)

                                      This here is wild bro.

                                      [–]MavericksVinlandism 7 points8 points  (0 children)

                                      Nuggets in 5

                                      [–]Rifleman80 8 points9 points  (0 children)

                                      Well, the Nuggets have the true MVP of this season so they have the edge.

                                      [–]Mario0617 2 points3 points  (2 children)

                                      This (imo) is a series Denver needs to win quickly in 4/5. The longer it goes on, the more the scales tip to the Heat. Miami is tougher and more defensively disciplined than any team Denver has played in this postseason, and that can really wear down a team that is it used to it. Miami in 7, but the next most likely after that is Denver in 5.

                                      I’m interested to see bam defensively on Jokic and how Denver deals with the zone.

                                      [–]NuggetsTriCourseMeal 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                      Denver is the best team against zone defenses so I’d rethink the whole Miami in 7

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                                        [–]Mavericksdirkslance 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        Idk but I’m glad we’ve been getting different champions every year here lately

                                        [–]CelticsCurrent-Case-3967 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        The nuggets just are a terrible matchup for the heat. Not mention they have played like they are the best team in the league and don’t piss away games like the Celtics do. Overall I think the heat get one of a Vincent/Martin + Jimmy game but Nuggets in 5

                                        [–]Sunstjmora 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        Nuggets wins in 6. Nuggets take games 1, 2, 4, and 6. Game 5 will be extremely close and will reach overtime.

                                        [–][deleted] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        Denver in 5

                                        [–]WarriorsBlazehero 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        I want the Nuggets to win because Denver deserves one

                                        I want the Heat to win because fuck Minny for not having a winning mentality when Jimmy was there

                                        [–]demondotjpeg 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        win win for me, either jokic wins or Jimmy butler wins

                                        [–]MountainEmployee2862 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                        My predictions for Game 1(And I'm pretty sure It'll be wrong):

                                        Game 1: Nuggets 118 - 93 Heat Nuggets win in a blowout thanks to massive rest advantage, home court advantage (They're 8-0 at home), altitude advantage (Denver is pretty high). Box Scores for the Nuggets (Too lazy to do it for the heat) Nuggets: Jokic - 34:52 played, 35 Points (14-23FG, 2-4 3pt FG, 5-7 FT), 15 rebounds (6 offensive), 13 assists (4 turnovers), 1 steal, 0 block, 3 personal fouls

                                        Murray - 31:40 played, 26 Points (8-18 FG, 3-7 3pt FG, 7-8 FT), 4 rebounds (0 offensive), 5 assists (2 turnovers), 2 steals, 0 block, 0 personal fouls

                                        Porter Jr. - 32:38 played, 14 Points (5-11 FG, 3-8 3pt FG, 1-1 FT), 10 rebounds (3 offensive), 0 assist (0 turnover), 1 steal, 1 block, 2 personal fouls

                                        Gordon - 35:10 played, 13 points (5-8 FG, 1-1 3pt FG, 2-2 FT), 7 rebounds (1 offensive), 1 assist (1 turnover), 0 steal, 0 block, 3 personal fouls

                                        Caldwell-pope - 26:50 played, 10 points (4-9 FG, 1-3 3pt FG, 1-1 FT), 2 rebounds (0 offensive), 3 assists (0 turnover), 2 steals, 0 block, 1 personal foul

                                        Brown - 25:20 played, 4 points (2-9 FG, 0-2 3pt FG, 0-0 FT), 6 rebounds (1 offensive), 3 assists (2 turnovers), 1 steal, 1 block, 2 personal fouls

                                        Green - 12:50 played, 0 point (0-2 FG, 0-1 3pt FG, 0-0 FT), 3 rebounds (0 offensive), 1 assist (0 turnover), 0 steal, 0 block, 1 personal foul

                                        Braun - 16:40 played, 9 points (3-5 FG, 1-1 3pt FG, 2-2 FT), 1 rebound (0 offensive), 0 assist (0 turnover), 0 steal, 0 block, 0 personal foul

                                        Nnaji - 9:20 played, 5 points (2-3 FG, 1-2 3pt FG, 0-0 FT), 2 rebound (0 offensive), 1 assist (0 turnover), 0 steal, 0 block, 1 personal foul

                                        Bryant - 11:00 played, 2 points (1-3 FG, 0-1 3pt FG, 0-0 FT), 5 rebounds (0 offensive), 0 assist (0 turnover), 0 steal, 1 block, 2 personal fouls

                                        Peyton Watson - 4:40 played, 0 points (0-0 FG, 0-0 3pt FG, 0-0 FT), 1 rebound (0 offensive), 1 assist (0 turnover), 0 steal, 0 block, 0 personal foul

                                        Total - 240:00 played, 118 points (44-91 FG/48.3 FG%, 12-30 3pt FG/40.0 3pt FG%, 18/21 FT/85.7 FT%), 56 rebounds (11 offensive), 27 assists (9 turnovers), 7 steals, 3 blocks, 15 personal fouls

                                        [–]HoosierProud 6 points7 points  (0 children)

                                        Nuggets are like the Hydra. Cut off one head and 2 more will grow in its place. Slow down Jokic’s passing, he drops 50 pts. Murray has an off night, KCP drops 25. MPJ sits the second half. AG keeps butler under 20 pts and Bruce goes off. Only way Nugs lose is Jokic or Murray get injured.

                                        [–]Gloomy_Lengthiness71 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                                        The Miami Heat are an inspiring story filled with lessons on perseverance and inner strength. A tale of underdogs facing insurmountable odds and defying conventional wisdom on what a #8 seed team can accomplish.

                                        All that said, I'm going with the Nuggets in 5.

                                        [–]Spursheyyitsmike 12 points13 points  (3 children)

                                        Heat in 6.

                                        G1 Heat 123-109 - The Heat having played more recently keeps them focused and in rhythm. They shoot +40% from 3. Denver altitude makes no difference since the Heat have been in Denver all week already.

                                        G2 Nuggets 124-105 - Nuggets respond with an easy win and high energy. Jokic 30+ points. The Heat also shoot poorly from 3.

                                        G3 Heat 117-114 - Tight game but Herro is back and provides an extra boost to Heat's offense.

                                        G4 Heat 103-101 - High defense and poor shooting from both teams. Very tight game coming down to free throws in the late game.

                                        G5 Nuggets 126-118 - Nuggets with their backs against the wall go back home and etch out the Heat.

                                        G6 Heat 117-110 - Very tight game but the Heat hit multiple daggers to close out the series and win the chip at home!

                                        Grats Miami! Himmy is a Heat Legend.

                                        [–]BASEDME7O2 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                        Yeah this seems very optimistic to the heat given how the nuggets have been playing and how rested they are. The heat will definitely have better coaching, but there’s a limit on how much coaching can do. Jokic and the nuggets historically have been a terrible matchup for the heat, bam can’t defend him well and if they double constantly he’ll have like 15 assists. This nuggets team kinda reminds me of the 14 Spurs ironically, in that they’re amazing because of an all time great player which the Spurs didn’t have (in their prime), but they look like a well oiled machine and the role players are getting so many good looks from three and hitting them.

                                        The heat look like they’re kind of on their last legs and they can’t defend the nuggets offense. Outside of Jimmy heroics or them just going on fire from three I would say nuggets in five, I would honestly not be surprised with a sweep. Gobert and ad defended the Jokic led offense pretty much as well as possible, and while bams a great defender he’s not a rim protector as much as them, he also hasn’t looked good lately.

                                        [–]strollas 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                        fanfic fiction levels

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                                          [–]HawksCCJones56 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                                          Nuggets are going to dominate the boards. And if AD couldn't slow down Joker, what is Bam going to do?

                                          [–]Raptorsfrostbite3030 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          Brick Layups repeatedly like all post season?

                                          [–]Jonesalot 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                                          Why isn’t there “both” or “neither” options?

                                          This poll seems rigged

                                          [–]HeatFolk-Herro 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                                          My head tells me nuggets in 5.

                                          My heart says Heat in 6

                                          [–]FloppyDonkeyDongss 7 points8 points  (1 child)

                                          The Denver Nuggets will absolutely win the finals.

                                          [–]NuggetsSpiritual-Chameleon 16 points17 points  (0 children)

                                          Why does this make me feel uncomfortable?

                                          [–]HeatKazukaphur 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          So far 335 Miami heat fans have voted.

                                          [–]ThunderKingkooper5 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          Nuggets in 5 Game 1-2 nuggets win at home Game 3 heat take it Game 4-5 nuggets get it done

                                          [–]Buckstacoguy1234 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          Nuggets in 4

                                          [–]LakersExoandy 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          Brain says Denver but my heart wants Himmy Butler to win a ring 👑👑

                                          [–]Supersonicswhosnick7 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                                          Bruh shut up we all know how this poll will turn out

                                          [–]JazzSesti-nator 3 points4 points  (3 children)

                                          My question for Denver is can their bench be able to step up if their starters can’t do it alone. Miami may be an 8th seed, but they don’t play like one IF Jimmy Buckets plays at a high level. Denver may have the talent (and some luck), but Miami’s got experience and resolve. I may be useless but I’m going with the heat in 7.

                                          [–]Sunsyunnsu 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                                          Denver in 5

                                          Although Denver had the easier path (Timberwolves, Suns, Lakers), I just can't not see Denver having absolutely no problem against the Heat. I don't see how the MIA zone would stop Jokic from just running offense from the elbow or getting a ton of offensive rebounds. How is Bam going to handle Jokic when Jokic handled Gobert and AD without much difficulty? Who will be able to bother MPJ/AG's size and length off of cuts and catch-n-shoots? Is there even a perimeter defender to stop Murray from getting whatever shot (ill-advised or not) he wants to shoot?

                                          Miami went through 2 title contenders to be a title contender themselves. Crazy crazy crazy. But I just don't think their defense is big enough to stop Denver's size. Jimmy will need to make the Nuggets play to the Heat's style and rely on his teammate's, not role player's, 3-pt shooting. The Heat is ironically going to be the best 3-pt shooting team that Denver will be facing, so they may be able to leverage that and attack Jokic on defense, but we've seen how clever and prepared Denver has been on defense as well. Unless the Heat catch on mega-fire in 5-6 games from 3, I don't think they stand a chance...

                                          [–]MastodonFuture9487 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          Heat fans about to get a reality check

                                          [–]PacersFunny-Transition7869 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                          Nuggets in 5 W-W-L-W-W

                                          [–]CelticsBrady331 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                          Nuggets in 4

                                          [–]KnicksKnickerbockers-94 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                          Jokic needs to get his ring, Nuggets in 5

                                          [–]WarriorsDaconvix 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                                          Nuggets are going to destroy them sadly. They’re just a terrible matchup for the Heat and Jokic is by far the best player in the series. If AD could barely slow him down I have no faith Bam will. Nuggets in 5, maybe even 4

                                          [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                                          Miami 100%

                                          [–]Heatiamaweirdguy 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                                          People think the Nuggets are some unbeatable juggernaut but they can lose. They lost a game to the wolves in round 1 and two games to the suns in round 2. And it wasn’t because of Jokic playing bad or being stopped. Jokic had a 30/17/17 and 53 pts in their two losses to the suns. If the Heat find some hot 3 points shooting (which they have multiple times through this run) they can give the Nuggets a run for their money.

                                          [–]mapandterritory 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                                          Bam has been horrendous. Kyle Lowry has been careless with the ball. And the Jimmy going ice-cold to where he was playing scared thing (still don't know why or what that was about) can't happen. They have to clean all that up or they will be toast. I hope they do.

                                          [–]cuntpunch2277 0 points1 point  (5 children)

                                          How does anyone pick the Nugget's after the Heat's run through the east this year?

                                          [–]Warriorsfatkamp 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                                          Actually think it’s a reason to pick the nuggets. Heat are beat up and just played a game 7, and Denver has been resting all week

                                          [–]Tenx3 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                          You'll understand soon

                                          [–]Nuggetsthiago6tward 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                          East garbage

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                                            [–]Ill_Celery_7654 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            I think Miami’s luck finally runs out. They haven’t faced anybody close to the offensive firepower that Denver has. I’m sure Butler will come to play, but it won’t be enough.

                                            [–]CelticsSalahManeFirmino 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            Heat in 7, FMVP: Bam Adebayo

                                            [–]megaforce347 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            Miami 4-0

                                            [–]Spursbrendon_b 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                            Nuggets in six. Contentious vote between Jokic and Murray for FMVP, but Jokic prevails.

                                            [–]NuggetsAccomplished_Dance49 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                            I mean if Jamal couldn't win the conference MVP trophy putting up 32 on 50/40/90 idk what he'd have to do to win a FMVP

                                            [–]wildfocaccia69420 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            I voted nuggets but i'm rooting for the heat. I am all of us today

                                            [–]Viciouscauliflower21 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            I just feel like joker is gonna do some nasty shit to Bam. I wouldn't mind being wrong tho

                                            [–]Ok_Jicama_8943 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            As long as refs call bam moving screens and don't give miami a hugely beneficial whistle, nuggets win easy. Would also help if miami falls back down to earth with their three point shooting, they hit the highest percentage of open threes in a playoff series since tracked in 2014 last round. If guys like caleb martin return more to form and denver continues their shooting (plus the heat don't try to injure jokic or murray) then denver realistically wins in 5, maybe 6 with a scott foster masterclass

                                            [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (2 children)

                                            I don't know why, but I'm going with Heat in 6!!! I think they will outshoot the Nuggets from 3, which was something the Lakers couldn't do. Nuggets are poor on defense imo, and Mike Malone isn't the better coach in this series. Just gotta force turnovers. Not that worried about Jokic, and think they have to focus on Jamal Murray instead. If he doesn't go off I could see the Heat really doing this.

                                            [–]Lakersincredibleamadeuscho 0 points1 point  (0 children)

                                            I believe in Heat Culture

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