With just over two weeks remaining in the regular season we definitely know who the eight playoffs teams in the West will be. The seeding order however is totally up for grabs. The only spot that seems secure is that the Lakers will finish first. Here is my attempt to predict how the rest of the season will play out and who will being played who in the first round.
1. LA Lakers(54-20), projected record: 60-22
Despite some inconsistent play without Andrew Bynum of late, the Lakers will once again have the West's best record. They will need Bynum come playoff time but they can win enough without him in the mean time even with a weak bench.
2. Dallas(49-25), projected record:55-27
After losing four out of six after a 13 game winning streak the Mavs have seemingly righted the ship with impressive victories over Golden St. and Denver. The schedule has tough games remaining but most are at home. As long as they defend well and protect there home court they should finish strong.
3. Utah(49-26), projected record:54-28
The Jazz are as hot as anyone in the league right now. A favorable schedule should win them the Northwest division and make them a dangerous playoff foe for anyone.
4. Phoenix(47-26), projected record:52-30
The Suns have been on a role of late but that could change due to the injury of Robin Lopez who was key to an improved defense of late. Other players must pick up the slack on the defensive end of the court.
5. Denver(48-27), projected record:52-30
Things are not going well for the Nuggets right now. They are missing their coach and starting power forward and almost lost all five games on their recent road trip. If they do not turn it around soon they might not have home court advantage in the first round.
6. Portland(45-29), projected record:50-32
The Blazers have played extremely well of late even with their multitude of injures. The trade of Marcus Camby was a key acquisition in a much needed role. If they can be somewhat healthy they will not be an easy out for anyone in the opening round.
7. Oklahoma City(44-28), projected record:50-32
Led by Kevin Durant the Thunder have had a magical season as they will make the playoffs for the first time in five years. The lingering question is whether their inexperience be a problem come playoff time.
8. San Antonio(44-29), projected record: 49-33
The Spurs are hurting right now with Tony Parker out and Tim Duncan struggling. Manu Ginobili is carrying them right now, but their are always injury concerns with them. That being said there is a lot of pride with the Spurs and they cannot be counted out just yet.
projected playoff matchups
1. LA Lakers vs. 8. San Antonio
2. Dallas vs. 7. Oklahoma City
3. Utah vs. 6. Portland
4. Phoenix vs. 5. Denver
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