With the NBA season winding down, there are questions about which two teams will be facing off in the Finals. Some experts think it will be yet another rematch between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers. But, we may see different teams face this time around.
First, let's start with the Eastern Conference. The Toronto Raptors currently have the best record in the East, but that doesn't mean they are a guaranteed spot for the Finals. While I like the pair of Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan they aren't two players who have experience in the playoffs. When your main scorers and playmakers don't have the proper experience in the playoffs, it can hurt the chances of the team. They have been a good team in the regular season for the last few years. Their only struggle is in the playoffs and I don't see this trend stopping.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a steady team in the East since LeBron James joined them back in 2015. The real question is, can James lead this team back to the Finals? As it stands, the answer is no because the Boston Celtics have proven themselves to be one of the best teams in the league. Kyrie Irving is currently out with an injury, but if he becomes healthy in time for the playoffs then watch out for the Celtics.
If the Celtics don't make it then the Cavaliers are the next best option with James's experience and his leadership. It's either the Cavs or the Celtics that will come out victorious in the East.
Now it's time to look at the tougher Western Conference that is completely stacked with powerhouse teams.
The OKC Thunder were a team to look out for from the beginning of the season. With Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony leading this team, many thought this season would be a trainwreck with all the different personalities. I wouldn't call this season a complete trainwreck because they have been successful for the majority of it. Even with the star power of this team, they still aren't a favorite to me.
Westbrook is an amazing athlete and an incredible point guard. Unfortunately, he is not the closer this team needs and neither is George or Anthony. Anthony is a veteran of the game, but his window for a championship is closing and while George has experience in the playoffs. This team is still struggling to figure out their primary closer for close games. When they figure out who should take the last shot of the game, then maybe some stability will form. Until then, they aren't a favorite by many experts.
The Houston Rockets have the best record in the league, but I'm not convinced they have what it takes to make it. While James Harden will most likely become the league's MVP. He has choked in huge playoff games before. The same goes for Chris Paul who is a great veteran, but still has trouble making it out of the 2nd round. I want to believe this team can win the West, but it is a hard task. That is because of the Golden State Warriors.
The Golden State Warriors have proven time and time again that they are the team to beat in the playoffs. The experience of being to three straight NBA Finals gives the Warriors a leg up on the competition. I think this year will be more difficult for the team. That doesn't mean I have lost faith in them though. It is between the Rockets and the Warriors, but if the Warriors, like the Celtics, can get their star point guard back from injury. Then they will be representing the Western Conference.
Boston Celtics and Golden State seem to be the best teams in both conferences. While anything can happen in the playoffs, the NBA can be pretty predictable. I want to see different teams in the Finals because another rematch of the Cavs and Warriors are not wanted by NBA fans. A new fresh take is what we want and we may just get it.
