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NBA: Predicting The 2016-17 Western Conference Playoff Field

By Michael Saenz

Jul 7, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kevin Durant poses for a photo with his jersey during a press conference after signing with the Golden State Warriors at the Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 7, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kevin Durant poses for a photo with his jersey during a press conference after signing with the Golden State Warriors at the Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 29, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) and guard C.J. McCollum (3) look on against the Charlotte Hornets during the fourth quarter at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 29, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) and guard C.J. McCollum (3) look on against the Charlotte Hornets during the fourth quarter at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Portland Trail Blazers

Projected Starting Lineup: Damian Lillard, C.J. McCollum, Allen Crabbe, Al-Farouq Aminu, Festus Ezeli

After surprising the masses this past season, by making a run to the second round of the NBA Playoffs before losing to the eventual Western Conference champions, I’m not exactly sure what to expect from the Blazers.

I like their backcourt, though it lacks depth. The addition of Evan Turner will do wonders for the bench and Festus Ezeli is the perfect starting center for what the Blazers want to do. There couldn’t be a better fit, really.

With all that said, with a stronger second-tier of the Western Conference expected this year, I don’t think the Blazers will necessarily move up the standings. They’ll still be pretty good and will be a tough out in the playoffs.

Next: No. 5

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