Western Conference Predictions
Another NBA season has begun. He has previewed the Eastern Conference, now Rob Ryan previews the League’s Western Conference.
In the last article, I addressed my predictions for what I think will happen in the Eastern Conference. We are now addressing my thoughts about how the Western Conference (Including The Portland Trail Blazers) will shape out.
1. Utah Jazz
Sometimes stability pays off. I like almost everything about this team. The way they focus on defense, the humbleness, and the maturity of its stars. Along with a rabid fan base that continues to make Salt Lake City one of the most challenging places to win in over the last 30 years or so. I don’t think Utah is the most talented team in the West, but they will be consistent enough to capture the top seed again.
2. Los Angeles Lakers
Some might point out the riskiness of bringing in a player that can’t space the floor for Lebron James. Who often requires the ball in his hands to have an impact on the court. However, when you compare those risks to the idea of standing pat and expecting improvement from within, I think you have to take that risk.
There will be growing pains and lapses where the team plays badly for a few games. However, this might be LeBron’s most talented roster ever. Lebron’s age and team chemistry will be the deciding factors on how far this team goes.
3. Phoenix Suns
Similar to Utah, I think the Suns will be a solid regular-season team. Though they won’t catch teams off guard like they did last season. I think Chris Paul‘s leadership will keep them moving forward. Deandre Ayton not signing an extension could provide some trade chatter in the background, but I doubt Phoenix makes a move. I also wouldn’t count on running into three straight playoff teams missing one of their two best players happening again this upcoming season.
The defending Western Conference champs prepare for the new season! #SunsAllAccess pic.twitter.com/qpWNMMHv4M
— NBA (@NBA) October 16, 2021
*4. Portland Trail Blazers
We can be honest and admit Portland did not look good in the preseason. We can also be honest and admit that Portland has one of the best starting lineups in all of basketball, anchored by Damian Lillard, and arguably improved their bench with defensive-minded role players that know how to shoot. I put an asterisk next to the four because I don’t think Portland will have the same roster going into the second half of the season.
I felt the re-signing of Norman Powell, and stacking the bench with wing players who are lethal from three-point range, is an attempt at replacing some of C.J. McCollum‘s abilities after a potential trade. Portland is smart for waiting for the right player.
Still, when it eventually happens, I expect Powell and Robert Covington to be better used to their abilities. I also see Ben Mclemore having somewhat of a comeback season and gelling with a bench unit that has Anfernee Simons, Nassir Little, Larry Nance Jr, and Cody Zeller.
*5. Golden State Warriors
The return of Klay Thompson will be what takes this team from play-in fodder to borderline contenders. I added the asterisk because I think the roster will have a significant upgrade by the trade deadline. Along with Andrew Wiggins’ contract, all of the young talents will lead to a move to acquire another star. If this team can acquire another star without moving its big three, I think the rest of the league should be on notice that the Warriors are back.