Western Conference: Predicting the final standings
By Ken Newhouse
Jan 31, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) drives against Memphis Grizzlies forward Jeff Green (32) during the second quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
8. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder started off the 2014-2015 season with a 3-12 record. Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant were both out with injuries. It looked as if the team wouldn’t even sniff the playoffs this season.
We’re now in mid February, and the Thunder are 28-25 and sit just a half game back of Phoenix for the 8th spot in the Western Conference. Oklahoma City has gone 25-13 since the horrid start, which is fourth best in the NBA.
I will say it now. If the Oklahoma City Thunder make the playoffs this year, barring any major injuries they will be the most dangerous eight seed to every play in the postseason. A team that has been to the Western Conference finals two of the past three years, and once to the NBA finals in 2012 is primed for another run this year.
A potential matchup with the Golden State Warriors in round one of the playoffs could possibly go down as one of the most exciting playoff series in the history of the NBA.
Prediction: 46-36
Next three: vs. Dallas, @ Charlotte, vs. Denver