NBA: 3 teams that exceeded expectations during the 2017-18 regular season

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 25: Victor Oladipo #4 of the Indiana Pacers shoots the ball against the Miami Heat during the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 25: Victor Oladipo #4 of the Indiana Pacers shoots the ball against the Miami Heat during the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
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The top was predictable, but there were three teams that exceeded expectations during the 2017-18 NBA season. As the playoffs approach, they’re dangerous

Coming into this NBA campaign, most people viewed it as a season just waiting for the NBA Finals. It seemed like everyone was predicting another Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers matchup for the fourth straight year.

While that still very much possible, the road to the NBA Finals for each team doesn’t look as clear as it did before the season began. Teams like the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, as well as even the Toronto Raptors, could all provide challenging obstacles for the Warriors and Cavaliers on their way back to another Finals meeting.

There have been many interesting storylines over this NBA season as well as teams playing much better than they were expected to. We will go over the top three most surprising teams in the NBA this season based on where they were projected to be heading into it. Some of these teams could cause trouble for both the Warriors and Cavaliers trying to get back to the Finals

But first, we will highlight some honorable mentions for teams that have had great seasons in their own right.