2024 NBA Conference Final Predictions
With the Conference Finals getting underway this week, I wanted to rank the 4 remaining teams based on their chances of winning a title. Regardless of who wins, it’s great that one of the new faces of the league – Anthony Edwards, Luka Doncic, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton – will be getting their first championship ring and establishing a new age within the NBA. Let’s dive into the case for each conference finalist:
Boston Celtics
Of the four conference finalists, the Celtics are the only team to have made a Finals appearance in recent years, and they’ve been able to keep their core together while continuing to add depth and key pieces. The duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown is still one of the best in the league, and they’ve learned from their 2022 Finals appearance. Led by their two stars, the Celtics have proven that they can consistently reach the latter stages of the playoffs with 5 conference finals appearances over the last 7 seasons, and it seems inevitable that they will get over the hump to win one – this year is a great opportunity.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Defense wins championships, and with the #1 defense in the league, the Timberwolves have a legitimate case for winning it all. Anthony Edwards has announced himself as a new star in his first-ever playoff appearance, and the Timberwolves have the right mix of youth and veteran experience to adapt to any scenario. Combined with their tenacious defense and key offensive contributors like Jaden McDaniels, the Timberwolves are built to contend.
Dallas Mavericks
Luka Doncic has made five First-Team All-NBA teams in just six seasons. That’s already more selections than Kevin Garnett, Stephen Curry, Dirk Nowitzki, David Robinson, Dwyane Wade, Moses Malone, Julius Erving, and Charles Barkley, all at just 25 years old. He’s also finished in the top 5 in MVP voting in three of the last five seasons. The pairing of Luka with Kyrie has proven to be a successful one, especially with the late additions of Daniel Gafford and PJ Washington adding valuable depth. The Mavericks winning it all will be dependent on Luka’s ability to elevate his performance beyond his exceptional regular season numbers, and Kyrie’s veteran leadership and ability to close in the biggest moments.
Indiana Pacers
Out of the four conference finalists, the Pacers are easily the most underrated team. Tyrese Haliburton was electric during the regular season but has shown gaps in his game along with some underwhelming performances during the playoffs. Indiana’s biggest strength is their resilience and fighting spirit, winning both of their previous series after falling behind in both. Their title-winning hopes will ultimately hinge on Haliburton playing up to his potential and getting production from key contributors like Pascal Siakam and Miles Turner.
For some Conference Final thoughts from two NBA legends, check out the podcast below