Storyline: Western dominance is likely to end soon in the NBA. I like what I see in the East, especially in Cleveland, Toronto, Washington, Orlando, and even in Philly.
Right now it’s clear that the Western Conference is the best conference in the NBA. The Spurs, Warriors, and Thunder, among others, have looked like championship contenders over the last few years. In the East, though, only the Cavaliers have looked like a team that can contend for a championship.
However, the West may be going through some changes. Let me give you two examples.
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The Spurs will likely look very different in the near future as the “Big 3″—Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli and Tony Parker—are in the last 1-2 years of their careers. Yes, the Spurs have Kawahi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge, but the jury’s still out on whether those guys can lead the team to a championship.
The Clippers. It was supposed to be big city, bright lights, and a possible championship for Doc Rivers, Chris Paul, and DeAndre Jordan. But it has been nothing but that. It has been obvious that these guys just can’t to play together. And, if they can’t resolve things soon, one or more of these stars is likely to leave town. That would leave the Clippers as another West team in for a downfall.
Now let’s look at the East. I believe that the East will by far be the best conference in the NBA in two years or less. For one thing, the ‘real king in the NBA’ is LeBron James. Toronto will continue making runs in the near future. And then there’s Washington? With a budding superstar in John Wall, and a great coach in Scott Brooks. DC just may have the recipe for luring Kevin Durant to D.C.
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Philadelphia—yes the 76’ers—may be ready for a rebound. Philly has the top pick and (for once) I don’t think they’ll get it wrong. That’s unless the 76ers shock the world and don’t pick either Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram. One of these guys is likely to be a young superstar and make Philly a playoff contender.
Orlando looks decent with new coach, Frank Vogel, and a young core group with Aaron Gordon, Victor Oladipo, and Elfrid Payton.
These teams will help the East rise in the NBA.
