These are the top 8 NBA teams right now:
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City sits atop the Western Conference and is tied with Cleveland for the NBA’s best record at 44-10. Injuries could derail the Thunder’s quest for the Western Conference Finals, but they’ve stayed healthy for the better part of the season. Oklahoma City can win the NBA Finals with continued domination.
2. Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland enters Week 18 atop the Eastern Conference with a 5.5-game lead on Boston. They’ve played consistent basketball up to this point and will be a favorite to reach the Eastern Conference Finals. The Cavaliers can win the NBA Finals by outperforming their opponents throughout the playoffs.
3. Boston Celtics
Boston’s road domination has them geared up come playoffs. Opposing teams dread Boston coming into their home stadium, and rightfully so. Boston can win the NBA Finals with the team’s playoff experience and winning games on the road.
4. Denver Nuggets
Denver comes out of the All-Star break with an eight-game winning streak. Early season struggles have been ironed out and the team is playing the best basketball in the NBA. Denver can win the NBA Finals with experience and one specific name: Nikola Jokic.
5. New York Knicks
New York has played consistently at home and on the road. They’ve dominated conference foes, but they rely heavily upon their starters, and this could be an issue should any players slow down as the playoffs begin. New York can win the NBA Finals by staying healthy and dominating the playoffs defensively.
6. Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis has a 0.5-game lead on Denver for second in the Western Conference. They’ve managed to tread water, but defensive play could see them drop in the conference standings. Memphis can win the NBA Finals by outpacing their opponents and improving defensive production.
7. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers come out of the All-Star break fifth in the Western Conference. They are a team to watch as the season progresses, as their starters may fizzle out due to a high number of minutes played per game. The key to the Lakers winning the NBA Finals comes down to a healthy, rejuvenated LeBron James, role players picking up their production, and solidifying the center position.
8. Houston Rockets
Houston continues to finish with more shot attempts than their opponents. This has been beneficial in the Rockets’ successful season. Improved defense has been the most important factor in the team’s consistency. Houston can win the NBA Finals by playing lockdown defense throughout the playoffs.
