2. L.A. Clippers
The L.A. Clippers have proven that they are a threat in the West even before they formed a Big 3. But adding James Harden early in the season gave them more depth and star power to scare off other teams in their conference. They're currently fourth in the standings, and that could be where they'll start in the playoffs this season.
Phoenix Suns Remaining 10 Games:
— Hoop Muse (@HoopMuse) March 27, 2024
Nuggets
Thunder
Pelicans
Cavaliers
Timberwolves
Pelicans
Clippers
Clippers
Kings
Timberwolves
All teams with 40+ Wins pic.twitter.com/CO5jT3gYMk
Just like the Suns, the Clippers are a win-now team because of their firepower. They have two defensive specialists in the perimeter, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. Both players have been healthy and are massive reasons why they've achieved so much. Aside from them, the team also has Harden, an offensive threat who can control the pace of the game with his passing.
They've played two of their four-game season series against the Suns and have a winning record. Their upcoming games against Phoenix will be back-to-back on April 9 and 10. With that record, it's obvious that they are one of the teams Booker and Co. should avoid in the postseason.