Looking into the Western Conference for the upcoming NBA season

For the first time in years, the Western Conference is sufficiently less competitive than the Eastern Conference. That does not necessarily mean it is worse. It is just more predictable. About half a dozen teams on the Eastern side can justifiably consider themselves contenders for the Finals. Other than the Clippers, most of the West is mainly just fighting for silver. The Lakers are that good.

The Dallas Mavericks made sacrifices on the offensive side on purpose. They gave away Seth Curry to improve their defense and Delon Wright for cap flexibility. Kristaps Porzingis will be missing the beginning of the season. Last season, the Mavericks had such a great lead over the field that even a big dip does not need to knock them off of the top spot. The gap of 2.6 points per 100 possessions between them and the No. 2 Clippers was identical to the gap between the No. 2 Clippers and the No. 14 76ers. Short of further injury, Dallas should enter the season as favourites to be the NBA’s No. 1 offense.

The Denver Nuggets are not ready to rely on Bol Bol but have not left themselves any alternatives. JaMychal Green is more of a matchup centre than a consistent backup centre. Even Zeke Nnaji is a rookie. With Mason Plumlee and Jerami Grant gone as well, there are minutes to be filled. The Nuggets have a right to be sceptical about Bol’s readiness but are going to have to him under the fire sooner or later. He will play 15 minutes per game across 50 appearances.

The Nuggets had an unexpected run to the Conference Finals in the Playoffs last year.
The Nuggets had an unexpected run to the Conference Finals in the Playoffs last year.
Image Credits: Colorado Springs Gazette

Steve Kerr has been a coach to Stephen Curry for five years. The Golden State Warriors finished below third on offense, but they have never been without Klay Thompson either. If Curry is the only player, the floor suddenly looks a bit more cramped. Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green and Kelly Oubre Jr. are combined 32.6% career 3-point shooters, and that does not even factor in the presence of a center. Golden State will finish between 11th and 15th on offense.

Warriors leader Stephen Curry finally played NBA basketball after a long time.
Warriors leader Stephen Curry finally played NBA basketball after a long time. Image Credits: Warriors Wire – USA Today

The Houston Rockets will not make a decision on James and until the 76ers make a decision on Ben Simmons. Despite reports and statements to the contrary, the 76ers will not make a decision until they have seen their new team play together.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

More like this

Michael Oher Net Worth: Star of “The Blind Side,”...

Michael Oher Net Worth 2025: All You Need to Know The former NFL player you may be familiar...

Shaq Net Worth 2025: Exclusive Updates on the Athlete’s...

Shaq Net Worth: All You Need to Know Former NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal, often known as Shaq, is...

Lakers vs Trail Blazers: How to Watch, Key Details,...

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Portland Trail Blazers are set to face off in an exciting...

Warriors vs Suns: Steph Curry’s Injury Update and Game...

The highly anticipated Warriors vs Suns matchup is set to take place at the Chase Center, and...
Ulhas KS: The First Indian to Compete in Serbia's Top Basketball League

Ulhas KS: The First Indian to Compete in Serbia’s...

Indian basketball has reached a historic milestone as Ulhas KS becomes the first Indian player to compete...

LATEST NEWS

WPL 2025: Delhi Capitals Women vs Gujarat Giants Women – Preview, Prediction and Where To Watch The Match LIVE

The 10th match of the WPL 2025 season will see Delhi Capitals take on Gujarat Giants on February 25, marking their first encounter of...

Champions Trophy 2025: Australia vs South Africa – Preview, Prediction and Where To Watch The Match LIVE

The Champions Trophy 2025 has captivated cricket fans with a series of thrilling encounters so far. Continuing the excitement, Match 7 promises a riveting...

WPL 2025: Ecclestone’s All-round Brilliance Stuns RCB and Chinnaswamy in Thrilling Super Over Victory For Warriorz

In a night filled with extraordinary drama at the WPL 2025, the UP Warriorz silenced a crowd of over 28,000 as RCB fell short...

Champions Trophy 2025: Ravindra, Latham, and Bracewell Secure New Zealand’s Place In The Semi-finals

While many teams are currently in transition, New Zealand have consistently demonstrated throughout this Champions Trophy that their new generation is ready for the...

Featured