PRE-COVID, I usually prepare this piece around October. But with Covid forcing us to adapt to a new normal, it is only now that I have this piece for the upcoming 2021-2022 NBA season.
The new season will be shortened to 72 games instead of the regular 82 games season. Hopefully, nothing untoward Covid-wise happens between now and the conduct of the 72 games before the playoffs by June.
Title contenders
The Lakers are tapped for a potential repeat with their recent acquisitions in free agency and their holdovers forum last season's championship roster. Lebron and AD and a new set of younger supporting casts will definitely want to repeat and become the first team to raise banner 18th.
Looking to contend are Jimmy Butler and the Heat, Kawhi, the Clippers, KD, and the Nets. The Miami Heat has an almost intact lineup and will definitely try to defend the East. Standing in their way as Kings of the East are the Brooklyn Nets. A healthy Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving can be an overwhelming duo and a matchup problem for most teams.
Kawhi and the Clippers, still reeling from falling short of expectations last season, will be playing with a chip on their shoulders. It is a championship or bust season for them.
Teams to watch out for
Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, can be teams who can return to the playoffs this season. A retooled Warriors can make some noise in the West. The Hawks can benefit from their mix of young players, and vets can turn around the franchise. They have missed the playoffs since 2017.
Other playoff-bound teams
Rounding out the Eastern Conference playoffs can be the 76ers, Celtics, Raptors, Pacers, Bucks.
For the Western Conference, the Rockets, Jazz, Nuggets, Mavericks, Pelicans, Suns can be playoff-bound.
Sleeper team
The Washington Wizards with Russell Westbrook can still make it to the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. His competitive nature will find its way to rub off on his teammates and do wonders for the team.
This is a Christmas gift for basketball fans worldwide.