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With DJ going back to the Clippers, the Lakers are one Rudy Gobert injury away from competing for the 8th seed.
I like the Suns, but I'm not sold on them winning some crazy amount of games.
Really just depends on how good Russell is right away.
Guarantees:
Warriors, Spurs, Thunder, Clippers
Pelicans, Grizzlies, Rockets
Western conference "tiers" for the 8th seed.
Top tier:
Jazz
Suns
Middle tier:
Mavs
Kings
Nuggets
Blazers
Lakers
Not yet:
T'Wolves
Kings - will win games with George Karl. Doesn't mean I think they're a good team, but they'll definitely win games.
Mavs - with a Wes, Parsons and Dirk core isn't too impressive, but Coach Carlisle will win some games.
Nuggets - Gallo coming back will help. Gallo/Mudiay/Chandler/Faried/Nurkic... not bad. They'll compete every night. Don't think they'll compete for a playoff spot, but they'll win a good amount of games.
Blazers - Wildcard. Not gunna make the playoffs but no idea how many wins they get. If Dame gets hurt, this can get ugly quickly.
T'Wolves - too young. Might win 5-10 more games than last year.
There is a chance.
I want to believe!
I think it can be done, but i'll have my expectations at learning season for the youngsters