14. Portland Trail Blazers (14-19)
I’m still trying to understand the Portland Trail Blazers and what they’re about and where they stand in the Western Conference hierarchy. Nevertheless, as long as they have a healthy Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum I’m not going to count them out.
Even though they’re clinging to the final playoff spot in the West, I still won’t believe they’re done until they’re done. We saw the run that they went on in last year’s playoffs. They have one of the most dangerous duos in the West.
13. Oklahoma City Thunder (16-15)
Surprisingly, the Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as a true playoff contender in the Western Conference. Before the season, I’m not sure that something that anyone predicted would happen. Still, it wouldn’t be surprising to see this team emerge as a big seller at the NBA Trade Deadline.
The Thunder are still playing the long game and would love to get something in exchange for Chris Paul and/or Danilo Gallinari.