Western Conference: The Final Countdown
As we approach the final day of the NBA regular season, the Western Conference is still a whirlwind of possibilities. With 81 games already played by each team, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they prepare for their 82nd and final game. While some teams are gearing up for a playoff run, others are bracing for the offseason and the anticipation of the NBA draft lottery on May 12. Let’s dive into the Western Conference and see what’s at stake.
Who’s Locked In?
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2. Houston Rockets
3. Los Angeles Lakers
The Thunder have secured the top spot in both the conference and the NBA, ensuring home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. A win against New Orleans on Sunday would make them the seventh team in NBA history to win at least 68 games in a season.
The Rockets have also locked in their position at second place, securing home-court advantage for the first two rounds. Their surprising and impressive season has been a highlight, and they will play a crucial role in determining the final standings.
With a win over Houston on Friday, the Lakers have secured the third seed. Like the Thunder and Rockets, they are waiting to see how the rest of the standings will shake out.
What’s Left to Be Decided
In short: everything else!
4. Denver Nuggets
5. LA Clippers- 6. Minnesota Timberwolves
Denver controls its destiny. A win against the Rockets will secure home-court advantage in the first round.
5. The Clippers face a tough challenge against the Warriors. A win could place them fourth, while a loss might push them into the play-in tournament.
6. Despite a recent setback, a win against the Jazz will guarantee a top-six spot for Minnesota. They could even grab the fourth seed if both Denver and the Clippers lose.
The late slate of games will determine who stays out of the West play-in tournament. The Warriors, Grizzlies, Kings, and Mavericks are all in the mix, each with their own scenarios to navigate.
Eastern Conference: All Set
In contrast to the West, the Eastern Conference has all its postseason spots locked in:
- 1. Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2. Boston Celtics
- 3. New York Knicks
- 4. Indiana Pacers
- 5. Milwaukee Bucks
- 6. Detroit Pistons
- 7. Orlando Magic
- 8. Atlanta Hawks
- 9. Chicago Bulls
- 10. Miami Heat
Draft Lottery Standings
The Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards are tied for the league’s worst record at 17-64. A coin flip will determine their draft positions if they remain tied. The next six teams are locked into their positions, with the Philadelphia 76ers securing the fifth spot.
As the final day of the regular season approaches, the excitement is palpable. With so much at stake, fans are in for a thrilling conclusion to the NBA’s regular season.
Originally Written by: Tim Bontemps
