The playoffs are exactly a week away, and there are still a few teams battling for post-season positioning. However, most of the teams have clinched, and there will probably be a few that surprise when the playoffs roll around. We all know what to expect from the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs. But, what can we expect from the other post-season teams?
Indiana Pacers
If the Indiana Pacers are able to secure a playoff spot, currently seeded seventh, they will be a tough first-round opponent. The Pacers are playing the best basketball of the season at the right time, and most of their recent success could be attributed to newly-acquired guard Lance Stephenson, who has completely sparked the team off the bench.
Stephenson has provided energy and toughness, essentially inspiring the team to play better basketball. Paul George has also been playing at a very high level lately, averaging nearly 34 points, 10 rebounds and over four assists on 54.2 percent shooting per game in the month of April. The Pacers could possibly face the Boston Celtics or Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round and will give those teams a lot of trouble.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz have the third best defense in the league, which will work to their advantage during the playoffs when the game slows down. Rudy Gobert is the best paint protector in the NBA, and perhaps the most intimidating shot blocker. With Gobert’s defense down low and Gordon Hayward’s scoring prowess, the Jazz will be a tough playoff opponent.
Utah’s first-round opponent is most likely going to be the Los Angeles Clippers, and L.A. will definitely have their work cut out for them. Gobert’s rebounding and defense will be key against DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin. The two will certainly have a tough time keeping him off the glass. The most overlooked part of Utah’s game is their three-point shooting.
They are very efficient from beyond the arc, ranked ninth in the league. With a powerhouse defense, the Jazz will be scary during the post-season.
Milwaukee Bucks
What makes the Milwaukee Bucks so intimidating is their length and athleticism. Unfortunately, they lost Jabari Parker to a season-ending knee injury, but Khris Middleton made his return from a hamstring injury and has been providing a ton of offense.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has become a star in this league, which has powered the Bucks to the playoffs.
Milwaukee is also a very versatile team, which is an underrated aspect. Almost anyone can ball handle and playmake, from rookie Malcolm Brogdon, to Matthew Dellavedova, to Middleton, to Antetokounmpo, which is why the Bucks are ranked fifth in assists. Additionally, Milwaukee has the tendency to play up to the level of their opponents, as has been the case against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the season.
