Over five months of the regular season have gone by, and it was unusual, to say the least. Surprisingly, whether they were long-lasting or transient, every single team had their winning streaks at different stages of the season. Furthermore, with the play-in tournament’s positions still up for grabs, teams with a chance must excel in performance to clinch a spot. Which teams are most likely to conquer the play-in and advance to the playoffs?
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Despite the play-in not being as close as the Eastern Conference, these last five games will be crucial for teams to qualify as the highest seed possible.
Teams with a chance of advancing to the postseason:
Minnesota Timberwolves
Current record: 44-34
Providing they win their last four games, they might still be able to clinch a playoff spot without the need for the play-in tournament. However, if they were to participate, there should not be any problem for them to advance to the playoffs.
Los Angeles Clippers
Current record: 38-40
Having clinched their ticket for the play-in, and with Paul George’s return, the Clippers finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, as they have a high chance of advancing to the playoffs.
New Orleans Pelicans
Current record: 34-43
With great season-ending performances, the New Orleans team might be the biggest surprise of this years’ play-in. Additionally, with Zion Williamson targeting a return for the playoffs, the Pelicans seem to be more motivated than ever.
San Antonio Spurs
Current record: 32-45
Oddly enough, with a completely different style from any previous years, the young yet talented players in San Antonio seem to excel as the underdogs of the NBA.
Los Angeles Lakers
Current record: 31-46
The Lakers’ situation is, unfortunately, getting out of hand. Quite shockingly, a team with virtually no reason to struggle is currently out of this year’s play-in tournament. Can LeBron be the one that saves them from failure?
Most likely to advance:
Minnesota Timberwolves
Los Angeles Clippers
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Even though the participating teams are unlikely to change, the 8th, 9th, and 10th seeds are currently tied with the exact same record. As we know it, seeding is of prime importance when it comes to the play-in tournament.
Teams with a chance of advancing to the postseason:
Cleveland Cavaliers
Current record: 42-35
Targeting the first playoff appearance of the century without LeBron James, the Cavs’ performance is more than impressive and much higher than their initial expectations. Can they succeed in the play-in despite their relative lack of experience?
Brooklyn Nets
Current record: 40-37
Another team that, on paper, should not be here is slowly getting back on track for the remainder of the season! Kyrie and Durant finally seem to have strengthened their chemistry, which will definitely come in handy for the postseason.
Charlotte Hornets
Current record: 40-37
Another team with a young roster, the Hornets seem ready to deal with whatever team they face, maintaining consistency in the face of adversity. On top of that, every piece of their roster is not afraid of being in the spotlight, delivering excellent performances when needed.
Atlanta Hawks
Current record: 40-37
With an incredible performance in last years’ playoffs, the Hawks seem to adapt amazingly well to postseason basketball. However, it seems their level has decreased throughout this year. Hopefully, they can recover from these recent losses and use previous experience to thrive in the play-in.
Most likely to advance:
Brooklyn Nets
Cleveland Cavaliers
Even though there is still some ambivalence towards the play-in tournament on some fans’ end, it certainly brings a breath of fresh air to the entire NBA and sets the mood for the long-awaited playoffs.
