Who will make the Playoffs?
With the NBA Playoffs just a matter of weeks away, it’s time to have a look at the teams that are in with a chance of competing for the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy. Can Miami Heat retain the Championship? Does anyone else have a realistic hope?
On Sunday, February 23rd, the Heat hosted the Chicago Bulls, defeating them 93-79 thanks in part to a great performance by Chris Bosh. Bosh’s high energy style resulted in 28 points and 10 rebounds, and Mario Chalmers and Chris Andersen were almost telepathic together.
LeBron James’ absence due to a broken nose didn’t prove to be an issue, and the match brought the Heat’s winning streak to five games. Only a brave fan would wager a lot of money against Miami this season. Comparing odds on the NBA is easy online, thankfully, so if you’re going to make a bet, make sure you’ve got the best prices available.
The Charlotte Bobcats have lost more games than they’ve won this season, but in terms of winning streaks they’re second only to the Heat at the moment. Celebrating ten years in the NBA this year, they’ll become the Charlotte Hornets at the start of the 2014-15 season.
Nobody seriously expects the Bobcats to attain glory this season, but their current form is worth keeping an eye on. Captain Kemba Walker has had a good season, though he may have peaked in December.
Teams with a similar win rate to Miami include the Indiana Pacers, and the Western Conference’s Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs. These three teams are the ones to watch if you’re looking for someone to relieve Miami of the Championship.
The Pacers have improved greatly in the last couple of seasons, and the addition of C. J. Watson and Luis Scola at the end of 2012-13 have strengthened the team. Captain Paul George, 23, did well at the Sprite Slam Dunk contest in New Orleans in mid-February.
Seattle’s loss has been Oklahoma’s gain, since the Thunder (previously the Seattle SuperSonics) arrived in town in 2008. OKC sports fans now have a team to support, and one that’s doing well, with a win rate of 0.754 as of late February. The Thunder were unlucky to lose Russell Westbrook to an injury in the playoffs in 2013, and may well do better this time around.
The Spurs have a win rate of 0.714 right now, doing better on the road than at home. They’ve won seven of their last ten games and are our final pick for possible Championship contention. The Spurs have a great record as far as Division titles are concerned and will be looking to avenge the Finals loss of 2013.
(Image courtesy of cbsmiami.com)