The NBA regular season is entering its final phase after a lengthy run.
Here are five predictions for the last 25 games and beyond.
1) The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to lead the Eastern Conference heading into the playoffs
The Cavaliers (36-22) are 5–1 since trading for James Harden and are starting to play like last season’s successful team. While Harden has faced challenges in the playoffs before, he is a strong asset during the regular season, contributing significantly to offense even at 36.
His skills ease the load on star guard Donovan Mitchell, who has the highest usage rate of his career in Cleveland. Harden’s ability in pick-and-roll situations will benefit Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, enhancing their performance as lob threats. Expect the Cavaliers to excel in the latter part of the season.
2) The Detroit Pistons could reach the NBA Finals
This might seem surprising since the Pistons haven’t won a playoff series since 2008. However, they have several advantages. They meet Phil Jackson’s “40-20 rule,” which suggests that a team should win 40 games before losing 20 to secure a championship. Only a few teams meet this standard this season.
The Pistons also possess a tough playing style, boasting the second-best defensive rating in the NBA (108.3), which can be advantageous in the playoffs. Furthermore, Cade Cunningham is performing exceptionally well, making him a significant player in any series leading up to the Finals.
3) Anthony Edwards is poised for a standout performance that could place him in the MVP conversation
The Minnesota Timberwolves star, after winning the All-Star Game MVP, is a player to watch. He is among the league’s elite, averaging 29.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. His recent performance, including a 40-point game against the Mavericks, suggests he is ready to elevate his game even further in the second half of the season.
4) The San Antonio Spurs might win the Western Conference and the NBA Championship
With the Spurs’ rising performance and injury issues affecting other Western teams, they are in a strong position. Victor Wembanyama is emerging as a formidable player, displaying the qualities of a young superstar. The team’s backcourt, including Stephon Castle, De’Aaron Fox, and others, complements Wembanyama effectively.
Other Western contenders, such as the Thunder and Nuggets, are struggling with injuries. This situation may provide the Spurs (40-16) an opportunity to emerge successfully from the West.
5) The NBA’s new anti-tanking rules may not resolve the issue
Commissioner Adam Silver’s efforts seem to complicate matters. Whether it’s complex agreements or new anti-tanking measures, the resulting rules tend to create loopholes. A simpler solution could be more effective.
Here’s a straightforward proposal:
- Each team starts with one lottery ball;
- The NBA Cup winner receives two additional balls;
- The Cup runner-up gets one extra ball;
- A lottery for all picks occurs right after the Cup, clarifying the draft order early.
This approach may reduce the incentive to tank, promote competition for the Cup, and allow fairer market dynamics. It’s worth considering, Mr. Silver.