NBA Playoff Schedule 2012: Ranking Watchability of Tuesday's Matchups

May Madness owns March Madness.

The first round of the 2012 NBA Playoffs is underway and Tuesday’s schedule features an exciting trio of showdowns. If you’re schedule is jam-packed, though, and only capable of finding the time to watch one, maybe two games then difficult decisions must be made. But relax, I got you—here are your choices ranked by watchability (via NBA.com).

3. Denver Nuggets at Los Angeles Lakers – 10:30 p.m. ET

As fun as the Lakers’ talented trio of Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum are to watch, this is arguably the most lopsided matchup in the entire first round. In Game 1, Los Angeles dominated the Nuggets 103-88. Andrew Bynum tied an NBA playoff record with 10 blocks while recording a triple-double.

If you live on the east coast, this contest won’t be worth staying up until 1:00 a.m. for.

2. Philadelphia 76ers at Chicago Bulls – 8:00 p.m. ET

Derrick Rose’s knee injury destroyed this series’ watchability, but it did make it more competitive. If you’re a fan of defensive basketball, you’ll have to wipe the off your chin after this one. But the fact that this game will be going on at the same time as the evening’s No. 1 showdown will punish its ratings.

1. Boston Celtics at Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 p.m. ET

This postseason-conceived rivalry continues—Boston vs. Atlanta is Tuesday’s can’t-miss contest. Despite the fact that both teams were nearly blown up at the trade deadline, they’re still two of the hottest teams in the Eastern Conference.

In Game 1, Atlanta held on for an 83-74 victory. Yeah, fans of defense—ugly offense—will enjoy this one as well. Rajon Rondo was actually ejected from the contest after bumping an official, so his status will bring yet another storyline to the table for Game 2.

David Daniels is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report and a syndicated writer.

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