The 2024 NBA playoffs are quickly approaching, and basketball fans everywhere eagerly anticipate what teams have what it takes to battle their way through the playoff gauntlet for the chance to hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy at the season’s end.
With the regular season winding down, the picture is becoming more apparent on which squads have positioned themselves as genuine championship contenders.
This article will break down the six strongest NBA teams heading into the 2024 playoffs based on their overall roster strength, regular season performance, playoff experience, and intangible factors that could push them over.
1. Golden State Warriors
You’d be hard-pressed to find a more complete team than the Golden State Warriors, who have reclaimed their spot at the top of the NBA Mountain. Led by their core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, the Warriors have a championship pedigree and know how to raise their game to another level come playoff time.
They also added All-Star forward Andrew Wiggins a few years ago to bolster their frontcourt, and he has fit in seamlessly with the rest of the stars. The Warriors have again dominated the regular season with a stellar record, and they will be the odds-on favorites to come out of the Western Conference.
With their depth, shooting, defense, and championship experience, you’ll be wise to consider the Warriors the team to beat ahead of the NBA playoffs schedule.
2. Milwaukee Bucks
Reigning NBA champions, the Milwaukee Bucks look primed to defend their title with MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the way. Giannis has elevated his game even higher in the past couple of seasons and is a dominant two-way force for which opposing teams have no answer.
The Bucks also have an elite defense anchored by Giannis and veterans like Brook Lopez and Jrue Holiday. With a solid supporting cast around their superstar, including Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis, the Bucks have proven they can win it all and should not be overlooked.
Their championship pedigree from recent postseasons gives them an edge over other contenders. Look for the Bucks to make another deep playoff run.
3. Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics have become a genuine powerhouse in the Eastern Conference, with that dynamic young tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown at the helm. These two players have reached unprecedented heights in their respective games, and the Celtics are now strong enough to support their talents with depth and experience.
We are blessed to have veterans such as Marcus Smart, Al Horford, and Derrick White for their toughness and playoff experience on the team. Boston additionally possesses one of the finest defenses in the league, with their switchable units as the backbone.
Having arrived within only two games of the championship last season, you can bet that the Celtics will be hungrier than ever. The Celtics look to finally earn the title lacking with their balanced offense and emerging stars.
4. Los Angeles Clippers
While they’ve battled injuries the past couple of seasons, a healthy Los Angeles Clippers team looks primed to contend. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are two of the best two-way players in the game when available, and they can take over any game.
With their star duo leading the way, the Clippers have the talent and experience to go deep in the playoffs. Role players like Reggie Jackson, Norman Powell, and Robert Covington add to their depth.
If Kawhi and PG can avoid the injury bug, you shouldn’t count out the Clippers from making a championship run. Their star power gives them the talent to beat anyone when firing on all cylinders.
5. Phoenix Suns
Last season’s Finals runners-up, the Phoenix Suns, look like a safe bet to return to the championship stage in 2024. Led by perennial MVP candidate Devin Booker and veteran point god Chris Paul, the Suns have a high-powered offense that is difficult to stop.
Paul continues to defy Father Time and make big plays in clutch moments. The Suns also have a strong supporting cast around their stars, including Mikal Bridges, Deandre Ayton, and Cameron Johnson.
Phoenix proved they can win playoff games last year and now have that experience under their belt. As long as Chris Paul stays healthy, it would be best if you like the Suns’ chances of returning to the Finals.
6. Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have ascended as a genuine title threat this season behind the transcendent play of Luka Dončić. At only 25 years old, Dončić is already putting up video game numbers and willing his team to win nightly.
With the emergence of Kristaps Porziņģis playing at an All-Star level alongside Luka, the Mavs now have the firepower to keep pace with anyone. Veterans like Spencer Dinwiddie and Dorian Finney-Smith add to their depth.
After coming within two wins of the Finals last season, you get the sense that Luka and company believe this could be their year. With the best player in the world leading the way, don’t count out the Mavs from going all the way.
Conclusion
And there you have it – the six strongest NBA teams you should watch closely as the 2024 playoffs approach. With so much talent and experience concentrated amongst these rosters, expect an epic two-month battle for the Larry O’Brien trophy.
Whichever team can stay healthiest and perform at their best when it matters most will hoist the championship trophy at the season’s end. The playoffs are sure to provide many exciting games and storylines to follow. Get your popcorn ready – the 2024 NBA playoffs are becoming an instant classic.
