9. Los Angeles Clippers (44-30)
Despite what the math might suggest that they should do, the Los Angeles Clippers elected not to tank this season. And even when it seemed like they were going to begin to pivot on the season, when they traded Tobias Harris at the NBA Trade Deadline, it felt like the team only go stronger.
Since the NBA Trade Deadline, the Clippers have the third-best record in the NBA and the fourth-best offense. The job that Doc Rivers has done with this team can’t be overstated. He should be on the short list to win the NBA’s Coach of the Year award.
The Clippers might not do much damage in the playoffs, but the fact that they got here with the roster that they have is an accomplishment in itself.