NBA Playoffs Predictions (08-05-2026)

The second games of NBA playoff series are often where adjustments start to matter the most.

Detroit already protected home court in Game 1, while Oklahoma City once again showed why many still consider them the strongest overall team remaining in these NBA Playoffs.

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Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers

Prediction
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The first this NBA series game finished 111-101, but the overall shooting efficiency was relatively high from both teams compared to what could normally be expected in a playoff setting.

Detroit especially are not built around fast-paced offense.

Throughout the season they’ve looked far more comfortable controlling tempo through physical defense and slower possessions, and that style usually becomes even more important in home playoff games.

Cleveland Cavaliers are the more balanced offensive team, but this Game 2 could naturally slow down if Detroit once again dictate the rhythm.

Unless both sides repeat extremely efficient shooting numbers or the game turns into a free throw battle late, this total still looks slightly too high.

Game 2s in playoff series often slow down naturally, especially with Detroit controlling the tempo at home.

NBA - Schedule

Oklahoma City Thunder – Los Angeles Lakers

Prediction
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Marcus Smart still had a decent offensive game in Game 1 despite the Lakers losing the opener.

He played 32 minutes and finished with 12 points while still leaving room for improvement efficiency-wise.

The shot volume remains important here, especially considering his current playoff role compared to the regular season.

Across these NBA Playoffs, Smart has consistently played heavy minutes and has taken on more offensive responsibility.

That becomes even more important with Luka Dončić unavailable and additional pressure falling on experienced players around LeBron James and Rui Hachimura.

Even in the first matchup against Oklahoma City, Smart still managed to clear this line despite shooting inconsistently from the field.

If his efficiency improves even slightly in Game 2, the number looks very reachable again.

Considering his current playoff role, this number still looks reachable.

This NBA prediction is for guidance only and we are not responsible for your bets.

Dalius Mikalauskas

Crypto and Sports Betting Expert

Dalius Mikalauskas is a crypto and sports betting expert and Project Manager at SmartBettingGuide, with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in basketball, football, tennis, and other online sports betting markets. Dalius also has a long history as a professional poker player, spending thousands of hours playing live poker in cities like L ..
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