NBA: 8 random thoughts ahead of the 2017-18 season

CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 13: Dwight Howard #12 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts after a play during their game against the Dallas Mavericks at Spectrum Center on October 13, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

1 of 8

CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 01: Harrison Barnes #40 of the Dallas Mavericks prepares for their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on December 1, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Eight random thoughts as the 2017-18 NBA season tips off

The Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers will meet in the NBA Finals for the fourth straight year. Russell Westbrook, LeBron James and Kevin Durant will lead the MVP race.

Anybody can make those assumptions about the upcoming season. How about you go out on a limb and make some bold predictions? Don’t worry I’ve got you covered. Here are nine random thoughts/predictions ahead of the 2017-18 NBA season.

The Dallas Mavericks Will Make The Playoffs

Yes, the Western Conference has gotten stronger but don’t count the Mavs out of the playoff picture. They haven’t made any huge offseason signings but they do have key players coming back. Dirk Nowitzki is not the same player he once was but he is still a reliable and capable player that the defense must respect on the offensive end.

Harrison Barnes quietly had an all-star caliber campaign while the resigning of center Nerlens Noel is underrated. Quite possibly the most important acquisition is the addition of first draft pick Dennis Smith Jr. who showed flashes of true greatness in the summer league.

His game resembles a young Derrick Rose. It might be a long shot in the deadly Western Conference but with the help of the aforementioned players and one of the best coaches in Rick Carlisle they have the ability to pull it off.

Home/NBA News