NBA: Blockbuster trades, LeBron James’ decline, other 2021 bold predictions

Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
13 of 15
Phoenix Suns
Phoenix Suns Devin Booker (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

NBA prediction: The Phoenix Suns will make the playoffs

There might not be a prediction on this list that I’m more confident in making than this one – I believe the Phoenix Suns will make the playoffs this season. After adding Chris Paul in the offseason, the Suns will be heading into this season with a certain level of expectation.

However, it’s not even the Paul acquisition alone that I’m excited about. In fact, there’s a chance I still make this prediction even if the Suns hadn’t acquired Chris Paul during the offseason. It’s the evolution of Devin Booker that I’m excited most about.

Booker was sensational in the NBA’s restart bubble and helped lead the Suns to a perfect 8-0 record. Look for this Suns team to pick up where they left off in the bubble and to make the playoffs in the West.