With the 2024-25 NBA season approaching its end, it’s time to shift focus from lingering narratives to the upcoming playoffs. To aid in this, The Ringer has gathered four notable NBA writers—Michael Pina, Danny Chau, Kirk Goldsberry, and Howard Beck—to discuss five pressing topics as the season’s finale approaches. Here’s what they’re keeping an eye on for the remaining weeks.
1. Which Western team should the Thunder be concerned about?
Howard Beck: I don’t think the Thunder necessarily needs to worry, but in terms of teams they would prefer not to face, it’s a tie between the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors—both are experienced and reliable teams that have rejuvenated themselves through midseason trades. The Thunder has considerable talent and depth, but their playoff experience is limited.
Danny Chau: The Warriors. Adding an elite playmaker like Jimmy Butler has revitalized the Warriors. His defensive contributions and playoff expertise will be vital, and he’s likely to target the Thunder in the postseason.
2. Have the Cavaliers overtaken the Celtics as the Eastern favorites?
Pina: While the Cavaliers are performing strongly, the Celtics remain the favorites due to their playoff experience and roster stability. Overcoming the Celtics in a series is a challenging task, requiring sustained performance.
Chau: It’s close, but not just yet. The Cavaliers’ remarkable efficiency may not transition smoothly into the playoffs, where the stakes and pressures rise significantly.
3. Which team has the toughest future: Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, or Philadelphia Sixers?
Chau: The Mavericks seem to be in the most trouble. While the other two teams have strategies to recover, Dallas has strained its relationship with its fanbase and faces significant backlash for its recent decisions.
Beck: Indeed, the Mavericks’ current situation isn’t hopeful. They lack the draft capital to rebuild efficiently while also navigating roster issues and player health concerns.
4. What’s an intriguing story related to tanking?
Beck: The Sixers have the most to gain from their tanking strategy, as a high pick would greatly enhance their roster’s future. The pressure to retain this pick is immense given their recent downturn.
5. What would be an ideal first-round playoff matchup?
Goldsberry: I’m excited about a possible showdown between the Pistons and Knicks. Their contrasting styles could make for a compelling series, rich in physicality and skill.
Pina: The Clippers facing off against the Thunder could reveal how a team that sacrificed its future matches up against a rising squad.
