NBA Power Rankings: The Regular Season Finale

team. 149. Russell Westbrook had a MVP caliber week, but the Thunder didn’t play their best basketball. They beat the Grizzlies by three points, lost to the Suns by 21, and beat the Nuggets on a 38 foot three-point dagger from Russ. The week concluded with Russell Westbrook taking a rest night, but the Thunder picked him up, beating the Timberwolves by two. They’re gearing up for a first round series against MVP candidate James Harden and the Rockets. Some incredible defense will need to be played to come out on top.. (47-35). Previous: 10th. Oklahoma City Thunder. 10

(49-32). Previous: 9th. Washington Wizards. 9. team. 142. The Wizards got back on track winning two out of three games this week. But just like the Thunder, it was underwhelming. They got back East after their disappointing West coast trip, to beat the Knicks by three, lost to the Heat by three, and finished with a three point win against the Pistons. I’m sure the playoff atmosphere will bring out their dynamic guard duo’s best. Expect them to get out of the first round.

Previous: 7th. Los Angeles Clippers. 8. team. 77. The Clippers are doing what veteran teams do, and playing their best basketball in April. They’ve won their last six games, and finish the season against the Kings. They’re currently tied with the Jazz for the fourth seed and home court advantage in their playoff series. The Clippers won all three games against Utah this season, but I think the Jazz match up with the Clippers very well, so they definitely want the extra home game.. (50-31)

Toronto has won 10 of their last 12 games as they head to the playoffs with a healthy <a rel=. (50-31). Previous: 8th. Toronto Raptors. 7. team. 81

118. Utah has won three of their last four games, including a win on the road against the Warriors. This Utah team is built for the playoffs, with one of the most balanced rosters in the league. They hit the three ball, protect the rim, and have a couple of veterans who have played past the first round. They’ve struggled against the Clippers, but I think they’ll step up to the occasion as the stakes rise.. (50-31). Previous: 6th. Utah Jazz. 6. team