With the NBA resuming shortly, I have some predictions for the remaining bubble playoff teams, and this is the second part, outlining the Western Conference.
Phoenix Suns: The Suns have improved from their past seasons but failed to compete while struggling with DeAndre Ayton’s suspension and injuries.
Ceiling – No playoffs
Floor – No playoffs
San Antonio Spurs: The Spurs have had a disappointing season with two semi-star players, and trading these players is inevitable in the future.
Ceiling – No playoffs
Floor – No playoffs
Sacramento Kings: The Kings have had a less productive season that last year with their new coach Luke Walton, and players have taken a step down from last year.
Ceiling – First Round Exit
Floor – No playoffs
New Orleans Pelicans: The Pelicans have had a better year than expected after trading Anthony Davis, and when Zion came back from injury, they were a playoff team.
Ceiling – First Round Exit
Floor – No playoffs
Portland Trail Blazers: The Blazers have had a disappointing season compared to last year, but they lost Jusuf Nurkic for the regular season.
Ceiling – First Round Exit
Floor – No playoffs
Memphis Grizzlies: The Grizzlies are having a great season with two young rookie talents and Jaren Jackson Jr. to lead the team to the 8th seed.
Ceiling – First Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Dallas Mavericks: The Mavericks have had a phenomenal season behind the improving Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis.
Ceiling – Second Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Houston Rockets: The Rockets are a contender for the Finals this year, and have had an interesting season playing without a true center.
Ceiling – Finals
Floor – First Round Exit
Oklahoma City Thunder: OKC has had a very surprising season as they were not projected to make the playoffs, but currently hold the 5th seed in the West.
Ceiling – Second Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Utah Jazz: The Jazz have had an underwhelming season considering they acquired Mike Conley, who did not produce for them as expected.
Ceiling – Second Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Denver Nuggets: The Nuggets aren’t title contenders quite yet, but have a chance to surprise some teams in the playoffs.
Ceiling – Second Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Los Angeles Clippers: The Clippers are strong title contenders while being led by two stars and having a very deep roster.
Ceiling – Finals
Floor – West Finals
Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers are being led behind LeBron James, who desperately needs to prove himself in the playoffs, as well as Anthony Davis without having a deep roster.
Ceiling – Finals
Floor – West Finals
Photo Credit: USA Today Sportsbook Wire
