Who are the top 10 contenders?
Kevin Durant has been packaged with TJ Warren and sent to the Phoenix Suns and the Nets receive Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and 4 first-round pick not including the first-round swap. This trade has officially made the Nets a non-contender for the season and a possible play-in team as it stands. The Nets probably should have asked for Deandre Ayton included in the package considering Durant’s value but that is just my opinion. Today will be a brief rundown of the top 5 contending teams in each conference which I deem a ‘title contender’ and what the trade deadline result means for them.
Western Conference: Here me out, you may laugh at my contender picks but you have to think from a perspective of who will beat them in a 7-game series in playoff-style basketball. In saying that, here are my top 5 contenders in the west in no order.
*ranking will be out of all 10 teams (east and west combined)*
LA Lakers: I understand they are in a horrible position at the moment but after getting Beasley and Russell they improve them in a big way. They will make the play in at least and should make the playoffs and if they make the playoffs they have a good chance to win it all. However, a fair bit needs to turn around to get to the stage and that is why I have ranked them slightly lower than other teams.
Overall ranking: 7th
LA Clippers: Again, another team must be healthy to win. Kawhi turns into MJ in the playoffs and PG is probably the best 2nd option in the NBA. Clippers play some good basketball but I’m curious to see how their supporting cast plays in the playoff style of basketball. I think their a good smokey to get up this season.
Overall ranking: 6th
Dallas Mavericks: The matchup between the Mavs and the Suns will be unreal this season. The playoff matchup possibility would be insane. Kyrie v Durant and Luka v Booker would be heated. Mavs have a shot at winning it all but need to fix their defence. Start Josh Green and there is a much better team. Don’t overlook it.
Overall ranking: 5th
Golden State Warriors: Poole and Thompson are starting to get going with some impressive performances but the warriors really need to fix their defensive issues. They are usually dominant on both ends, but their defence has been poor this season. They must improve come playoff time and with a healthy Steph Curry, they can win it all.
Overall ranking: 4th
Phoenix Suns: Booker, CP3, KD, and Ayton. If this team is healthy it is over. The league is over if they are 100%. Who can actually stop this team? $5 for the title is over in my opinion so a small $25-$50 play on that would not be a bad option if you’re into futures betting. Monty Williams will make this team close to unbeatable and they will be unreal to watch.
Overall ranking: 1st
Eastern Conference: No brainer for the top 5 in the east, some teams probably aren’t contenders just yet but they are on the verge of title contention in my opinion.
Boston Celtics: No reason why they shouldn’t be favourites to win the title this season. Boston has the best depth in the NBA and I think players like Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon are really going to have crucial roles to support Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Boston v Suns finals are likely.
Overall ranking: 2nd
76ers: Probably not a contender just yet. I don’t know what it is must they are just missing something. This is coming from a 76ers fan as well and every time they play a contender on the road they seem to just collapse and throw the ball to Embiid and Harden. You can’t play 48 minutes with 2 players which Doc Rivers still hasn’t clocked yet. A small chance to win it all.
Overall ranking: 9th
Bucks: Fully healthy, this team is just as good as Boston. Boston has an edge on depth but when you have Giannis on your team you are always a top contender. If they come out of the east they will win it all in my opinion. Playing in Milwaukee is as tough as it gets for the opposition. Keep an eye on this lineup come the postseason.
Overall ranking: 3rd
Miami Heat: I don’t know where I am at with this team just yet. They are either really good or just average. When their stars are locked in, Miami is a top 6 contender and can beat anyone. Just remember they were a shot away from making the finals last season. I wouldn’t rule them out but I say it’s unlikely they win the title.
Overall ranking: 8th
Cleveland Cavs: Again, Probably not a contender but they are on the right track to get there. They can 100% beat a few top teams and cause some upsets. They are really fun to watch but come playoff time I have queries about their ability to adapt to the playoff style of basketball. Won’t win this year but they are on the way up.
Overall ranking: 10th
Who is your top seed from here? Let me know in the comments!