NBA 2.0 Half
Today officially marks the second half of the NBA season. “Second half” is a light term in this situation with about 30 games remaining. We’re officially past the all-star break. That means no more forced conversation about three pointers, dunk contests, and where Lebron is going to sign next year. This is the time of year where teams start to lock in and get ready for a playoff run if possible. Below are the teams I like in the East, West and my sleeper pick for each as we narrow in on the best time of the year - the NBA playoffs.
East:
Boston Celtics
The Celtics are sort of what Golden State was a few years back. That pristine group in the NBA. They are young, talented, and have potentially the future face of the league in Jayson Tatum. There’s not much more for these guys to do except win. Look, its JT’s 7th year in the league. He doesn’t have to win now but it would be great. If they don’t win this year, they can be right back there next year. But you’d have to re-sign my guy Jrue Holiday. ECF champs for sure.
2. Cleveland Cavs
It’s somewhat annoying they are in second place right now so it makes my article look boring. Look I’ve said it once I’ll say it again, they have everything they need. Ball handlers in Spida and Garland, bigs in Allen and Mobley, shooters in Wade, Niang, Strus, Merril - and don’t forget Caris LeVert. They have a great squad and they’ve shown it lately. 18-2 in their last 20. The key factor for me is do they have that dog in them? I watched a bit of their series against the Knicks last year and Brunson had the dog in him. The Cavs have to find that dog and keep it through the playoffs. Would be hard to beat the Celtics and whoever comes out of the West….but Cleveland this is for you!
3. Miami Heat (sleeper)
I think enough said here. Don’t ever sleep on Jimmy Buckets. They can make a run and get it done. Again, toughest opponent would be Boston.
West:
LA Clippers
I don’t think this comes as a shock to anyone. The Clippers are ’them’ in the West. I think they are the most talented team and they have a healthy Kawhi. Pending an absolute meltdown in the playoffs or running into a hot team. I think they are definitely the team to beat in the West.
2. Denver Nuggets
Again, the Nuggets are the best team in the West. As soon as they get into the playoffs its going to be game on. They have the most chemistry of any team and I can see them turning up the notches a bit when the playoffs start. They have a chance to defend their title.
3. Golden State Warriors (sleeper)
Don’t ever sleep on the Warriors. Steph will literally put you to sleep. Although they are starting out in 10th, I’ll quote Draymond from a few years back. “Don’t let us get in the playoffs!” I still believe that to be true now. This team has not had a great season and its been up and down, but you literally can’t count out the Warriors. I think Steve Kerr is going to have this team ready to rock and roll at the right time. All they have to do is get into the playoffs and then its up from there.
I’m looking forward to these last 30 games or so. Although I don’t generally watch as much during this time, it always feels like a warmup for the playoffs. It will be interesting to see who lands in the 1-6 seeds on each side, and who wins the play-in games! Hoping for a fun rest of the season and to see my teams make it happen. In the words of the great Rayne Dakota - “Here we go!!”
