West teams that just missed the cut
Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies have a top-10 defense but don’t have a top-10 offense. Even though they have a top-10 net rating, I don’t think the Grizzlies have a second superstar next to Ja Morant. Adding to that is the fact that there’s no current timeline for when Morant will return to the team. The Grizzlies are close but are likely one move away from being a legit championship contender.
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings have been one of the best stories in the NBA this season. But they don’t have a superstar currently on their roster and while they have the best offense in the league, it’s their defense that’s likely going to be their demise in the postseason. Great season for this franchise, however.
Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors have had a season to forget. Maybe there are still some that believe they can turn everything on once the NBA playoffs start, but that’s looking more and more unlikely. The Warriors have the superstars on their roster but they’ve been so inconsistent this season that they don’t have a top-10 offense, defense, or net rating. This is not a championship-level team right now.
Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have to legit superstars with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, but they don’t nearly have a good enough defense to win anything this season. They will be entertaining to watch in the postseason, but I’d be shocked if they made a deep playoff run.