Tis, the NBA Season: My (Stupid) Predictions
I like, not love, the National Basketball Association. So, when they say “this may be one of the greatest seasons we’ve seen in awhile.” I do not believe them, though I am involved in fantasy basketball and I will watch as much of the national broadcasts that my precious time will allow. I do admittedly love Kobe Bean Bryant and DeMarcus “BOOGIE!” Cousins, who are must see TV for me. HUGE Los Angeles Lakers fan here, though I’ll too be rooting for Boogie heavily throughout the 82 game grind that is the regular season, believe that! Anyways, the Warriors championship wasn’t a fluke, the Cavs aren’t a team of destiny, and the Western Conference may be the deepest it’s ever been in history. Also, the Pistons are primed to win 50 games, the Bucks are still two off-seasons away and the hometown Chicago Bulls will score more points under the new regime, but still lose to someone they shouldn’t. A precursor to my final predictions, read (and laugh) along, as I attempt to predict the future (like an idiot).
Western Conference Final Standings:
Oklahoma City Thunder - Two MVP caliber players that are extremely hungry to show that they are indeed the two best players in the world after missing the playoffs last year, buckle up.
Golden State Warriors - Reigning MVP with everyone that matters being back, sans David Lee. Last season was of historical proportions, which cannot be repeated without being put into the dynasty Bulls conversation. They’ll be great, not that great though.
Los Angeles Clippers - You think this team was dangerous with no depth? Well, we’re gonna see what they do WITH depth. This all contingent upon Lance Stephenson not imploding in their locker room.
San Antonio Spurs - They. Do. Not. Die. Insert LaMarcus Aldridge and Kawhi Leonard with a post game and this team is ready for another half decade run. Oh, and Popovich is still around.
Houston Rockets - Added little Ty Lawson. They’ll do what they do, score. Will Dwight hold up? I don’t know, man.
New Orleans Pelicans - Insert Alvin Gentry and a bulked up Anthony Davis to go along with a healthy Jrue Holiday. This team is ascending.
Memphis Grizzlies - They grind out wins, they really do. Marc is on the wrong side of 30 and Z-BO, who doesn’t bluff, is getting older as well.
Dallas Mavericks - NEVER bet against Jim Carrey, I mean, Rick Carlise.
Eastern Conference Final Standings
Cleveland Cavaliers - Lebron James runs the East.
Atlanta Hawks - They were not a fluke. Also, their best player, Al Horford, is in a contract season and they have depth.
Chicago Bulls - This is now the Fred and Jimmy show.
Washington Wizards - If John Wall stays healthy, they may be better than the 4 seed. If Otto fulfills his potential, watch the throne.
Detroit Pistons - Andre Drummond. That’s it, that’s all.
Toronto Raptors - I am unsure what they are capable of this season, seeing as DeMar Derozan seemingly doesn’t get better. They have talent though, so they’ll make the tourney.
Indiana Pacers - Paul George is back and paired with Monta Ellis.
Miami Heat - Their stars are relatively old, but Riley and Spoelstra will find a way to get 40 wins.
Awards
MVP: Russell Westbrook
DPOY: Anthony Davis
MIPOY: Andre Drummond
COTY: Billy Donovan
ROTY: Emmanuel Mudiay
Sixth Man: Joakim Noah
NBA Finals: OKC Thunder over Cleveland Cavaliers (4-2)