NBA: Predicting The 2016-17 Western Conference Playoff Field

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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April 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) shoots a three point basket against Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
April 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) shoots a three point basket against Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

3. Los Angeles Clippers

Projected Starting Lineup: Chris Paul, J.J. Redick, Wesley Johnson, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan 

After watching their postseason get thrown out the window because of injuries to Chris Paul and Blake Griffin, the Los Angeles Clippers decided to bring back virtually the same team. Although, it should be noted that Blake could be traded at any moment. His name has been in and out of trade rumors.

Assuming that he isn’t traded, though, the Clippers, with this current roster, should be able to cruise to the third seed. Maybe even the second.

Problem is, there probably is a move coming. I don’t think franchises let these many rumors circulate without shooting them down. And if they don’t shoot them down, we all know what that means. That they’re not rumors. They’re true.

Next: No. 2