Western Conference Playoff Predictions – 2009-2010
Okay guys here is the breakdown. This is my prediction for numbers 1-8 of how the Western Conference will end up going into the playoffs.
1. Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets magical run last post-season was no fluke. The Nuggets are for real. And with a full-season with Chauncey at the helm, the Nuggets will have a great regular season.
2. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs added McDyess, Jefferson, Ratliff, Bogans. These are the key roster additions the Spurs have made that will make them a ton better.
3. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are the best team in the NBA. And I still think they will get back to the Finals. No doubt. But as the defending champs and the addition of Ron Artest they will have their ups and downs during the regular season.
4. Dallas Mavericks
The Mavs added Marion, Gooden, and Tim Thomas. They are deeper and better. And the connection on the floor between Jason Kidd and Marion will be something fun to watch.
5. Portland Trailblazers
Too much hype going into the season yet again in Rip City. This is a good and deep team. But they are not quite as good as the Western conference’s top 4.
6. New Orleans Hornets
CP3. That’s the only reason the Hornets will make the playoffs this year. He’s unstoppable and by far the best point guard in the game. He’ll get some help from David West and new addition Okafor.
7. Utah Jazz
The only reason I think they move up this far in the West is because I think they get rid of Boozer early in the season. I think that trade will re-energize this team and get them in a couple big winning streaks.
8. Phoenix Suns
A healthy Steve Nash and Amare Stoudamire equals playoffs for Phoenix. Expect the running game to start back up for the Suns. And Steve Nash to get a ton of production from Jason Richardson and new addition Channing Frye.
wow, those are pretty terrible predictions!! you think Denver will be #1?? You think the Suns will even make the playoffs? Sorry, Lakers will be #1 by >10 games!!
My thinking was that there really wasn’t anybody at that 8 spot, so the Suns would sneek in. The Rockets maybe but Yao is out for the season so I don’t see that happening. Outside of them you are left with the Warriors, Clippers, Kings, Grizzlies T-wolves, and Thunder. I don’t think any of those teams can beat out the Suns for that 8th spot if Nash and Amare are healthy all season.
And as far as the Lakers go. Trust me. It pains me not to think of them winning 70 games and finishing at the top when the season ends. As much as I want this too I don’t see it happening. I think the Lakers will coast a little bit through the season. Kobe, Pau, and Fish will let Bynum and crew kind of take over during the season. Then I expect them to kick it into next gear come April 15th and repeat as champions!