Top 6 seem a lock at this point (in no particular order): Rockets, Thieves, Spurs, Clippers, Grizz, and Warriors Lakers seem an almost sure bet to drop out of the picture, and I think Denver is quite likely to fall of as well. I see Portland, Dallas, and Minnesota fighting it out for the last two spots, and I think the Mavs will miss out for the second year in a row.
You guys were the 5th seed last year. Most posters have the Grizzlies at 5th. And your roster has stayed basically the same.
Grizzlies didn't really do much besides switch Arthur for Koufos and fire their head coach. Warriors, Clippers and Rockets got substantially better.
Get a year older. When Durant, Westbrook and Ibaka stop improving, we can start talking about the Thunder peaking. Until then it's just wishful thinking. And they have collection of young projects too. One of them will likely grow into a bigger role like Reggie Jackson last year.
They weren't going to beat the Spurs this year. Anyway, there's no way to prove that. There is, however, a chance to discover whether or not they improve from last year and the year before.
1. Thunder 2. Spurs 3. Rockets 4. Clippers 5. Warriors 6. Timberwolves 7. Grizzlies 8. Lakers 9. Mavericks 10. Pelicans 11. Nuggets 12. Jazz 13. Blazers 14. Kings 15. Suns
