NBA: Predicting How The Western Conference Playoff Race Will Settle

Los Angeles Clippers

Record: 37-20, 4th Seed

Remaining Schedule: 25 games remaining; 13 vs teams over .500

The Clippers actually have a bit of a favorable schedule down the stretch. Of their remaining 25 games, they’re pretty split between home and away. With the expect return of Blake Griffin, life will get a bit easier for Doc Rivers and company.

If Los Angeles can avoid another big injury – yes, I’m looking at you Blake – the Clippers should be a safe lock to end up as the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. LA currently holds a 3.5 game lead on the Memphis Grizzlies, who have a few injury problems of their own.

Snagging homecourt advantage for the first round should be the goal for the Clippers. Though, it might actually be better served for them to finish as the No. 3 or No. 6 seed in order to avoid the Golden State Warriors in the second round. However, that kind of is out of play now. The Clippers need to secure homecourt and worry about the Warriors when it’s time to cross that road.

(Prediction): 53-29

Next: Memphis Grizzlies