The 2021 NBA Playoffs feature exciting matchups across both conferences. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of each first-round series:

Western Conference:

#1 Jazz vs #8 Grizzlies

• Jazz looking to redeem last year's 3-1 series collapse
• Ja Morant leads Grizzlies after winning play-in games

#2 Suns vs #7 Lakers

• Phoenix's first playoff appearance since 2010
• Challenging matchup against defending champions at full strength

#3 Nuggets vs #6 Blazers

• MVP favorite Nikola Jokic leads Denver without injured Jamal Murray
• Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum present serious threat for Portland

#4 Clippers vs #5 Mavericks

• Rematch of last year's heated first-round series
• Luka Doncic could force major changes in LA with a series win

Eastern Conference:

#1 76ers vs #8 Wizards

• Wizards surged late, going 18-7 after 17-32 start
• Joel Embiid's dominance meets Westbrook/Beal duo

#2 Nets vs #7 Celtics

• Brooklyn's superstar trio faces depleted Boston team
• Celtics missing key player Jaylen Brown

#3 Bucks vs #6 Heat

• Rematch of 2020 series where Miami eliminated Milwaukee
• Giannis vs Jimmy Butler headline compelling matchup

#4 Knicks vs #5 Hawks

• Elite offense (Hawks) versus elite defense (Knicks)
• Evenly matched series with young talent on both sides

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