“Nothing New in the East, But the West is Heating Up”
Harden seeks a smoother route to the playoffs, Photo: Reuters
No surprises in the East, while the West is heating up—final matches of the NBA’s regular season will define the playoff paths for Western Conference teams, determining their destinations in the postseason or play-in matches.
In the Western Conference, the top three teams are set: Oklahoma, Houston, and the Lakers.
Four teams are contending for the remaining three playoff spots: Golden State, Denver, Clippers, and Minnesota. Denver’s aim is to secure either the fourth or sixth position, forcing one of the other three into the play-in round.
Additionally, it remains unclear where Memphis, Sacramento, and Dallas will stand as the playoffs begin.
Memphis is likely to finish in 7th or 8th and participate in the play-in, while Sacramento and Dallas will likely be in 9th or 10th place, with the 9th team hosting the 10th in the play-in game.
What do these teams need in their final matchups?
Denver vs. Houston – A victory would solidify the Nuggets in 4th place, but a loss could push them down to 6th.
Clippers vs. Golden State – If the Clippers win, they could climb to 4th if Denver loses or remain in 5th if the Nuggets win. Conversely, a loss could send them to 7th if Denver and Minnesota secure wins.
A win for the Warriors would guarantee them the 6th playoff spot, while a loss could drop them to 7th if Minnesota prevails.
Utah vs. Minnesota – It’s crucial for the “Wolves” to win as they vie for playoff spots between four and eight. A win would see them in the playoffs, but a loss could see them drop to 8th if Memphis triumphs.
Dallas vs. Memphis – The Grizzlies could finish 7th if they win and Minnesota falters, but could also drop to 10th place.
Phoenix vs. Sacramento – The Kings could secure 9th place with a victory, but a loss, coupled with a Dallas win, might see them slide to 10th.
Playoff games are scheduled from April 15th to 18th, with the NBA playoffs commencing on April 19th.
In the East, everything is decided. Before the final regular season games, the team’s standings have been established.
The first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs will feature:
Indiana (4) – Milwaukee (5); New York (3) – Detroit (6); Boston (2) – Orlando (7) / Atlanta (8); Cleveland (1) – Orlando / Atlanta / Chicago (9) / Miami (10).
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