I don't see SA bouncing back. They just dont have the star power. At BEST they can sneak into an 8th spot.
Tier 1 - Playoff locks (pending injuries):
- Clippers - They'll probably lose montrez harrell and Marcus Morris in FA, but with Kawhi, PG, Zubac, Shamet, and Lou coming off the bench they're in.
- Nuggets - I think they only get better
- Lakers - This really depends on Lebron's fitness. If he's healthy, they're in.
Tier 2 - Should Make Playoffs
- Jazz - Talent isn't an issue for this team, but their chemistry sucks. Clarkson will be missed but they were in the playoffs before signing him. See no reason why that changes.
- Warriors - They have absolutely 0 depth or margin for injury, but they have 4 all star caliber players. I just can't see a world where they miss the playoffs with a healthy Klay and Steph, but if it happens, it'll be b/c Wiggins is who we always thought he was and draymond's production continues to decline.
Tier 3 - Playoff contenders (in order)
- Grizzlies - I LOVE this roster with a healthy Justice Winslow inserted into the starting lineup. I think they're going to shock alot of people next season.
- Rockets - I personally don't like their roster construction over the course of 82 games. This is a team built for the playoffs, so if they can get there, they'll be dangerous, but i worry about the grind of a full season beating down this small team. Especially for a guy like Tucker who is asked to play 40+min often. At some point his age and minutes toll will show.
- Mavs - Luka and KP. 'nuff said. The only thing this team lacks is a third guy. As currently constructed, they can beat anyone but they can also lose to anyone too.
- Portland - They lose Whiteside and Carmelo (not huge losses) but they should have the star power to compete.
- Thunder - ONLY if they keep Galinari. If he walks, they're out of the playoffs.
- Kings - Coaching and health is this team's problem. From top to bottom they have a really good roster that fit well with each other. Bagley MUST stay healthy and Walton MUST be replaced. Otherwise it'll be another missed playoffs for this team.
Tier 4 - Lottery Locks
In summary, I'm predicting the top 5 will be:
Clippers
Lakers
Nuggets
Warriors
Jazz
with a bloodbath battle for 6-8 of:
Grizz, Rockets, Mavs, Trailblazers and to lesser extent, Thunder/Kings/NOLA/Suns