8. Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers check in at No. 8 after an impressive first three quarters of the season, in which they are currently sitting in the 4th spot of the Western Conference standings. Should the season end as is, the Blazers would be looking at a first-round playoff series against the Rockets.
Even though the Rockets would likely be favored in that even, I believe the Blazers would give them a good test. The dynamic duo on Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum is probably better than Chris Paul and James Harden at this point in their careers, and Portland’s supporting class shouldn’t be overlooked.