NBA: 8 big questions remaining heading into the push for the playoffs

Are the Clippers the only threat to the Lakers in the West?

For much of the season, the Lakers have sat atop the standings in the Western Conference. However, many have not really seen them as the favorites to emerge from the conference once the playoffs start. In fact, especially after the moves made at the deadline (Marcus Morris) and in the buyout market (Reggie Jackson), many assume the Clippers will be the team representing the Western Conference in the NBA Finals.

We know the Clippers will be a real threat to the Lakers in the playoffs. However, are there any other teams in the West that have a chance to get hot in the playoffs an upset either of the LA teams?

In the standings, the Denver Nuggets and Utah Jazz are really the only two teams that could theoretically catch the Lakers in the standings, but despite their solid seasons, I’m not sure either would pose a massive threat to LeBron James and Anthony Davis in a seven-game series.

Much less the Houston Rockets, who are having somewhat of an identity crisis. could they prove me wrong, sure, but I’m going to have to see it to believe it.