After years of finding 40 or more expert predictions for the NBA Finals, the quick turnaround in the bubble leads to an abbreviated list this year. (Only one ESPN pick so far? One year had 27!) We still found 22 picks, and the way they are trending – 19 of 22 are taking the Lakers over Heat – you can pretty much assume how those left undiscovered would have leaned.
Scoreboard Page: Everyone had the Lakers being here. No one had the Heat. Miami has a lot to play for – and nothing to lose. Erik Spoelstra knows LeBron James – and presumably how to stop him – and Jimmy Butler could solidify his desire to be in the top tier of NBA superstars with an upset win. This is 2020, but it feels like 2004 to me. L.A. has the stars. Miami has the team. Expect the unexpected. Heat in 5.
Sporting News: Lakers 1, Heat 0
The Associated Press: Lakers 1, Heat 0
Sports Illustrated: Lakers 9, Heat 1
Click the links above for their full predictions.