The first-round playoff matchups are set so here’s a quick StatsCube look at a single number that could define each series.
BULLS vs. PACERS
5.2
The Bulls were the most improved defensive team (allowing 5.2 fewer points per 100 possessions) and the second most improved offensive team (scoring 4.7 more) from last season.
MAGIC vs. HAWKS
27.2%
Magic opponents attempted just 27.2 percent of their shots from within five feet of the rim, the lowest percentage in the league.
HEAT vs. SIXERS
19%
The Heat shot 5-for-26 (19 percent) in the final 30 seconds of the fourth quarter or overtime with the score tied or when trailing by 1-3 points.
CELTICS vs. KNICKS
72
Chauncey Billups led the league with 72 unassisted 3-pointers, 17 more than any other player.
SPURS vs. GRIZZLIES
112.2
The Spurs scored 112.2 points per 100 possessions with Manu Ginobili on the floor, which was the highest on-court offensive efficiency in the league (min. 1,000 minutes).
THUNDER vs. NUGGETS
7.8
The Nuggets were the most improved defensive from before the All-Star break (107.2 points allowed per 100 possessions) to after (99.4), a difference of 7.8.
LAKERS vs. HORNETS
953
Fisher, Bryant, Artest, Odom and Gasol played more minutes together, 953, than any other five-man unit in the league.
MAVERICKS vs. TRAIL BLAZERS
122.0
Miller, Matthews, Batum, Wallace and Aldridge was the most potent offensive lineup in the league (min. 200 minutes), scoring 122.0 points per 100 possessions.