NBA: One x-factor for every team heading into the 2020 playoffs

Oklahoma City Thunder

X-factor: Steven Adams

The Thunder’s three-guard offense has done wonders in resurrecting an OKC team left for dead after the exodus of Paul George and Russell Westbrook last offseason. Just as inspiring as their attack has been, an extensive offensive role for Steven Adams inside has been a very grateful blessing. Adams’s double-digit scoring output may not resemble the past few seasons, but he’s still an elite finisher near the basket and through contact.

With a looming postseason date with the minuscule Houston Rockets, the Thunder’s size will conduct more rewarding factors than their elusive guard play. Adams can be the ringleader of it all en-route to a fulfilling playoff upset.

Utah Jazz

X-factor: Jordan Clarkson

With Bojan Bogdanovic’s absence expected to continue during the postseason, Utah will be looking for scoring in a variety of avenues to make up for his production. Offensively, Donovan Mitchell will more than surely hold his own as a scorer of the basketball. The reputation of Mike Conley as a lead scoring guard precedes itself and will showcase its true head more often than not this postseason.

The ultimate x-factor of bucket getters could be the Jazz’s ultra-confident sixth man Jordan Clarkson. This season, he’s averaged 15 per game in reserve duties, and during the playoffs will be looked upon to stay on par with his season averages. If so, he could be the deciding factor in Utah eclipsing round one.