The Year of the Super Team: 2018 NBA Predictions
The NBA is changing, from the big threes to shooting threes, there is no doubt that the NBA has never been more exciting. For starters, the league’s main scoring has shifted from inside slasher to 3 -point specialist. If you don’t have a three-point shot in your arsenal, whether you’re a big man or a guard, you cannot make it in the NBA. Perhaps the biggest change is the shift from one main superstar to a superteam. The first true super team of our era began when the free agent and NBA superstar Kevin Durant, decided to sign with the Golden State Warriors. He joined an already stacked roster featuring Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green this team went on to win the title in their first year together. After this move, many teams followed suit. The Rockets added NBA all-star Chris Paul who joined James Harden, and the Thunder acquired Paul George and Carmelo Anthony. The NBA is very exciting right now so without further Ado, here are my 2017-2018 NBA Finals predictions.
The Warriors: This prediction is nothing exciting or surprising, but it has to be said. The truth is, the Warriors are stacked and right now they still seem unbeatable. With four superstars, they will once again be the favorites to win the title.
The Celtics: Although they are coming off a disappointing Eastern Conference finals loss to the Cavs last season, and have lost arguably their best players, the Celtics have never looked better. After losing Isaiah Thomas, they quickly replaced him with Kyrie Irving, who is one of the best scorers in the league. They also added up-and-coming star Gordon Hayward, but unfortunately, he is out for the season with a broken ankle. Despite this, the Celtics are currently leading the East and just came off a 17-game winning streak. The Celtics also have a bright future in youngsters Jayln Brown and Jason Tatum. The Celtics are a strong team and have the talent to possibly defeat the Warriors.
The Rockets: The Rockets had an impressive season last year boasting a 55-27 record, although they only made it to the first round of the playoffs. This year is looking bright for the squad, with the addition of Chris Paul, the Rockets are looking like the team to beat. They are currently winning the west and as long as James Harden and Chris Paul can continue to lead the team, the Rockets could make it all the way to the conference finals.
The Spurs: This is a team that year after year is always a title contender. Even now that Tim Duncan has retired, the Spurs continue to hang in with the big dogs. Replacing their longtime star Tim Duncan is up-and-coming forward Kawhi Leonard. Leonard was a bit of a surprise to most teams after averaging less than 10 points in his first four seasons. But this is Kawhi’s team now, he will have to step up and help lead his team to a victory game after game. If Kawhi can maintain his MVP contender play style and stay healthy, The Spurs could make the Western Conference semifinals.
Sleeper Pick: The Bucks: The Bucks are only a modest 15-10 at the moment, but; they have perhaps the best young star in the NBA in Giannis Antetokounmpo. The kid is 23, stands at 6 feet, 11 inches tall with a 7-foot wingspan. But the best part is, he plays every position; he can defend the biggest, toughest guys and the smallest, quickest guys. The Bucks are a young and inexperienced team, but once they learn how to play together, they could be a real championship contender. Finals Prediction:
Warriors vs Celtics, 2018 NBA Champions: The Golden State Warriors. It’s no fun to say, but unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be a team with enough star power to overthrow the reigning champs.