In recent years, the NBA playoffs have taught us to expect the unexpected. While the league might not offer the same level of surprises as other sports, history shows that top seeds often find their way to the Finals. Case in point: nine of the last 13 championships have been claimed by 1-seeds.
This trend bodes well for the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Detroit Pistons, who currently lead their respective conferences. However, a top record doesn't guarantee a trip to the Finals.
The last time both top seeds faced off was in 2016, when the Cleveland Cavaliers bested the Golden State Warriors. So, don't be surprised if an underdog crashes the party for the Larry O’Brien trophy.
The Thunder and Pistons have been impressive, but they face stiff competition. The Western Conference is stacked with contenders like the San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets, LA Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference is wide open.
The Thunder have the advantage of being the reigning champions, but the Pistons are new to this level of success. On a recent episode of "No Fouls Given," Paul Pierce, Danny Green, and Wosny Lambre each picked a potential Eastern Conference champion and made compelling cases for their choices.
Lambre backed the surging Cleveland Cavaliers, who recently added James Harden to their roster. He highlighted Donovan Mitchell’s scoring prowess, head coach Kenny Atkinson’s strategic system, and Evan Mobley’s untapped potential. Lambre believes the Cavs are a well-rounded team capable of making a deep run.
Green, on the other hand, isn't concerned about the Pistons’ lack of playoff experience. “They’re built for the playoffs,” he asserted, emphasizing their physical style of play.
Green pointed out that last year’s playoff series against the Knicks provided Cade Cunningham with invaluable experience. He believes Cunningham’s MVP-caliber season, combined with the team’s depth and resilience, positions the Pistons as strong contenders for their first Finals appearance since 2005.
Unsurprisingly, Pierce chose his Celtics, who have been in fine form. Their recent victory over the Lakers secured their spot as the 2-seed in the East.
Pierce praised Jaylen Brown as an MVP candidate and highlighted the Celtics’ top-tier offense and defense. He also mentioned Payton Pritchard and Derrick White as key contributors, while expressing confidence in head coach Joe Mazzulla’s leadership.
With Jayson Tatum potentially returning soon, Pierce believes the Celtics could have the edge.
Tatum has been ramping up his rehab and recently practiced with the Celtics’ G League affiliate, suggesting a return could be on the horizon.
Each host of "No Fouls Given" presented a compelling argument for their pick as the next Eastern Conference champion. The battle for the crown promises to be thrilling, and only time will tell who emerges victorious.