While the return of the NBA is a welcome distraction, it’s important to acknowledge the larger issues facing our society. Consider supporting organizations in need before diving into basketball.
With that said, the NBA is back! 22 teams are headed to Orlando for the unique Bubble Playoffs. While some teams are virtual locks for the postseason, others face an uphill battle for a playoff berth. If you’re unsure who to root for in this unprecedented format, here’s a look at the pros and cons of each underdog team’s potential playoff appearance.
Memphis Grizzlies: The Future is Now
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Get acquainted with the future of the NBA. Ja Morant is a must-watch talent, and Jaren Jackson Jr. is a unique, shot-blocking, three-point shooting big man. Brandon Clarke adds another layer of young talent to this exciting team.
- Cons: Outside of the young core, the roster lacks recognizable names. Jonas Valanciunas might be their most impactful player at the moment, but don’t expect them to make a deep playoff run.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: Witness Ja Morant’s electrifying play in a playoff setting. Watch how he adjusts to the increased intensity and game-planning.
- Cons: The lack of playoff experience and veteran presence will be exposed against seasoned teams like the Lakers.
Phoenix Suns: Devin Booker Deserves the Spotlight
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Witness Devin Booker’s scoring prowess firsthand. See if Deandre Ayton can live up to his potential against the Lakers’ formidable frontcourt.
- Cons: Prepare for Ricky Rubio’s aversion to open threes. The Suns lack the firepower to keep pace with the league’s elite.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: Analyze how Devin Booker handles the pressure of playoff basketball. Observe Mikal Bridges’ defensive potential against LeBron James.
- Cons: Don’t expect the Suns to deviate from their questionable game plan. Prepare for the same old Suns – inconsistent defense and head-scratching decisions.
New Orleans Pelicans: The Zion Williamson Show
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Zion! Witness the Zion vs. LeBron matchup everyone craves.
- Cons: Prepare for the media frenzy surrounding Zion’s every move. The playoff atmosphere might be overshadowed by the hype.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: See how Zion elevates his teammates in a playoff setting. Observe how the Pelicans’ high-octane offense fares against the Lakers’ defense.
- Cons: The Lakers’ size and experience will pose a significant challenge for the young Pelicans. Zion, still early in his career, might be overwhelmed by the moment.
Orlando Magic: Can They Rediscover the Magic?
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Relive the nostalgia of Markelle Fultz’s draft hype (if he plays). Enjoy the occasional Aaron Gordon highlight dunk and Terrence Ross scoring outburst.
- Cons: The Magic are painful to watch when their offense stalls. Prepare for a low-scoring, grind-it-out style of play.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: Evaluate Aaron Gordon’s potential as a defensive stopper against Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- Cons: The Magic are outmatched against teams like the Bucks and Raptors. Their lack of offensive firepower makes for an uphill battle.
Portland Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard Time…Again
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Witness Damian Lillard’s clutch shooting and ability to take over games. Enjoy the offensive fireworks of CJ McCollum.
- Cons: The Blazers’ story feels familiar – a talented backcourt with limited playoff success. Don’t expect a deep playoff run.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: Evaluate the potential of the Blazers’ retooled starting lineup with Jusuf Nurkic and Zach Collins back in the mix.
- Cons: The Blazers’ playoff hopes rest heavily on Lillard’s shoulders. Hassan Whiteside’s presence disrupts the flow of their offense.
San Antonio Spurs: The End of an Era?
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Witness the Spurs’ disciplined, fundamentally sound brand of basketball.
- Cons: Their outdated offensive system and lack of three-point shooting make for a tough watch.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: The Spurs’ young guards, Dejounte Murray and Derrick White, get a chance to shine against elite competition.
- Cons: The Spurs lack the firepower to compete with the West’s elite. DeMar DeRozan deserves a better supporting cast.
Sacramento Kings: Can They Break the Drought?
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Root for the end of the NBA’s longest playoff drought. Marvel at De’Aaron Fox’s blazing speed.
- Cons: The Kings are painfully average. Their slow-paced offense stifles Fox’s explosiveness.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: Appreciate the unique skillset of Nemanja Bjelica, a sharpshooting big man who can stretch the floor.
- Cons: The Kings’ playoff hopes are slim. Their inconsistent play and questionable coaching make them a risky bet.
Washington Wizards: Fun, but Flawed
For the Casual Fan:
- Pros: Brace yourself for a high-scoring, fast-paced series against the Bucks. Witness Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance firsthand.
- Cons: The Wizards’ lack of defense will lead to lopsided scores. Without John Wall, their playoff hopes are bleak.
For the Diehards:
- Pros: Observe how the Bucks handle the Wizards’ high-volume offense.
- Cons: The Wizards’ lack of defense and reliance on isolation basketball will be their downfall. The absence of John Wall casts a shadow over their potential.
A Toast to John Wall
John Wall’s absence from the bubble is a reminder of the fragility of NBA careers. While these Wizards embrace a chaotic, up-tempo style, they lack the grit and defensive presence of a true underdog contender.
In a perfect world, a healthy John Wall would be leading this team, creating havoc with Bradley Beal by his side. We were robbed of witnessing that dynamic duo reach their full potential. Here’s to hoping John Wall returns to full strength and reminds everyone of his unique brilliance.
