Photo credit: www.forbes.com
The Oklahoma City Thunder, who claimed the top seed in the Western Conference, have achieved an extraordinary milestone this season, boasting the best record in NBA history based on win-loss performance. Despite this impressive feat, the road to the NBA Finals may prove to be a challenging one.
Led by standout point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and supported by an imposing defense, the Thunder finished the regular season with a remarkable record of 68-14, positioning them as the favorites heading into the playoffs.
However, even with home-court advantage throughout the playoffs, navigating the competitive landscape of the Western Conference will not be straightforward.
The Los Angeles Lakers have gained momentum thanks to the dynamic duo of LeBron James and newcomer Luka Dončić, while the Golden State Warriors have been revitalized by the combination of Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler.
In addition, Denver’s Nikola Jokić is widely regarded as one of the premier players in the league regardless of the outcome of the MVP voting.
Playoff upsets are rather common in the Western Conference. Last season, the Thunder faced a surprising defeat against the fifth-seed Mavericks in the second round. The Mavericks went on to reach the Finals, only to fall short against the Boston Celtics. The reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets, also experienced a second-round exit, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of playoff dynamics.
The postseason kicks off on Saturday, featuring two exciting matchups: the Nuggets taking on the Los Angeles Clippers and the Lakers facing off against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
FIRST ROUND PAIRINGS
No. 1 OKLAHOMA CITY vs No. 8 MEMPHIS
Season series: Oklahoma City, 4-0
Game 1: Sunday, at Oklahoma City, 1 pm ET
Oklahoma City set a new record for the highest point differential in league history, outscoring opponents by an impressive average of 12.9 points per game, indicating a season filled with significant victories.
At the center of this success is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who averaged an impressive 32.7 points and 6.4 assists per game. His ability to score and create plays has been crucial, leading the league in both field goal attempts and free throws made, while also achieving a high effective field goal percentage of 56.9 and a free throw rate of 89.8.
The Thunder’s roster features six players who average double-digit points, and with Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein protecting the paint, they present a formidable challenge to opposing offenses. Oklahoma City leads the league in steals and ranks second in blocked shots, showcasing their defensive prowess.
The Memphis Grizzlies, on the other hand, are undergoing a transition with a new head coach after firing Taylor Jenkins in late March. Highlighted by a strong core of guards Ja Morant and Desmond Bane along with Jaren Jackson, the Grizzlies possess talent but face questions about their depth. Interim coach Tuomas Iisalo’s affinity for the pick-and-roll will be tested as they navigate the playoffs.
Prediction: Oklahoma City in four.
No. 2 HOUSTON vs No. 7 GOLDEN STATE
Season series: Golden State, 3-2
Game 1: Sunday, at Houston, 9:30 pm ET
Jimmy Butler’s career has seen a range of roles from providing specialty coffees during the pandemic playoffs to now playing a key role as the newest addition to the Golden State Warriors. His impact, alongside Stephen Curry, was evident in their play-in victory against Memphis, where they combined for 75 points, helping revitalize the team.
Houston’s primary contributors are guard Jalen Green and big man Alperen Sengun, fostering a gritty defensive culture under coach Ime Udoka. However, with very few players having playoff experience, their ability to execute in high-pressure situations remains a question mark.
Prediction: Golden State in five.
No. 3 LOS ANGELES LAKERS vs No. 6 MINNESOTA
Season series: Split, 2-2
Game 1: Saturday, at Los Angeles, 8:30 pm ET
The trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers from Dallas has transformed the team into a formidable contender. Since the acquisition, the Lakers have shown newfound vigor with a 22-13 record, notably excelling with Dončić’s contributions alongside LeBron James.
Minnesota, however, has strengths in rebounding, which could complicate matters for the Lakers. With Anthony Edwards ranking high in scoring this season, matching his athleticism will be essential for Los Angeles.
Prediction: Lakers in seven.
No. 4 DENVER vs No. 5 LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Season series: Split, 2-2
Game 1: Saturday, at Denver, 3:30 pm ET
The upcoming playoff series will test how the Denver Nuggets adapt following the release of head coach Mike Malone and general manager Calvin Booth late in the season. Despite Nikola Jokić’s stellar performance, averaging a triple-double, the Nuggets will need to find their footing under new leadership.
Jokić’s ability to perform at an elite level has been crucial, making him a standout player alongside the newly acquired Russell Westbrook. For the Clippers, James Harden’s resurgence has complemented Kawhi Leonard’s return to form, posing a threat to any opponent.
Prediction: Denver in seven.
Source
www.forbes.com