As we approach the final stretch of the NBA regular season, the playoff picture is slowly coming into focus. With only a handful of games left, teams are jockeying for position and making their case as legitimate title contenders. While some teams have been consistent throughout the season, others are making a late push and proving they should not be underestimated.
One team that has been turning heads lately is the Oklahoma City Thunder. Led by All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook and MVP candidate Paul George, the Thunder have been on a tear, winning 11 of their last 13 games. Their strong defense and balanced scoring have made them a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference. Many experts believe that this could finally be the year that the Thunder make a deep playoff run and potentially even compete for a championship.
Another team that has been making waves is the Boston Celtics. Despite a slow start to the season, the Celtics have found their rhythm and are currently sitting in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. With a talented roster that includes All-Stars Kyrie Irving and Al Horford, as well as rising star Jayson Tatum, the Celtics have the potential to make a deep playoff run. Their recent win against the Golden State Warriors only solidified their status as a legitimate title contender.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a discussion about title contenders without mentioning the Cleveland Cavaliers. Led by four-time MVP LeBron James, the Cavaliers have been to the NBA Finals for the past four years and are looking to make it five. Despite some struggles early in the season, the Cavaliers have found their groove and are currently sitting in third place in the Eastern Conference. With James leading the charge, the Cavaliers should never be counted out.
While these teams have been making headlines all season long, there is one team that has been flying under the radar – the Denver Nuggets. Despite having the second-best record in the Western Conference, the Nuggets have not received the same attention as other top teams. This lack of recognition has not gone unnoticed by former NBA player Kendrick Perkins, who recently stated that he does not see the Nuggets as legitimate title contenders.
Perkins’ statement has sparked debate among NBA fans and analysts. On one hand, the Nuggets have proven themselves to be a strong and consistent team, with a deep roster and a talented coach in Michael Malone. On the other hand, they lack the star power of teams like the Thunder and the Cavaliers, which could be a disadvantage in the playoffs.
However, the Nuggets have shown that they are not to be underestimated. Led by All-Star center Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets have a well-rounded team that can compete with anyone in the league. They also have a strong home-court advantage, with one of the best home records in the NBA. In a league where anything can happen in the playoffs, the Nuggets should not be counted out simply because they lack star power.
In addition to these top teams, there are a few dark horse contenders that could make some noise in the playoffs. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and rising star Luka Doncic, have been making strides and could be a threat in the Western Conference. The Philadelphia 76ers, with their talented young core of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, are also a team to watch out for in the Eastern Conference.
As the regular season comes to a close, the NBA playoff picture is shaping up to be an exciting one. With a mix of established contenders and up-and-coming teams, the postseason is sure to be full of surprises and intense competition. So buckle up, basketball fans, because the race for the Larry O’Brien Trophy is about to begin.
