NBA playoffs consist of the best 16 teams in the league playing for the NBA championship. In the playoffs, there are four rounds. Each round consists of a seven-game series, meaning a team needs to win four out of seven games. Here’s how it works: The teams ranked No. 1-6 in each conference standings are guaranteed a playoff spot, while the teams finishing 7-10 will enter the play-in tournament. These teams will battle for the seventh and eighth seed. After the play-in tournament is over the real playoffs begin.
The NBA playoffs have brought many historic and memorable events. Michael Jordan won the finals three times in a row twice with the Chicago Bulls. In 2016 The Cleveland Cavaliers did something that had never been done before. During the finals, the Cavs were losing the series against the Warriors 3-1. During the next four games, the Cavs were victorious, ultimately winning the finals. In 2013 Ray Allen hit one of the most iconic shots in playoff history against the Spurs helping them win this game to make the seventh game happen. Bill Russell holds the record for the most NBA rings with 11. The Lakers and Celtics are tied for the most NBA rings with 17 rings each.
The playoffs are meant to show off how good the teams and players are. During the playoffs, managers and coaches truly see how their team performs, what key components are missing from the team, and which players are not cut out for this level of playing. A team may do well in the regular season, but their success may not transfer into the playoffs. Similarly, there may be a certain player who was the best in the league but failed to meet expectations. The playoffs are the place to prove to the haters and nonbelievers that you and your team belong here and can perform at a higher level. The playoffs truly show how players perform under pressure.
Currently, four teams remain in the playoffs: the Timberwolves, Mavericks, Celtics, and Pacers. This is a good opportunity to see how the young players can compete at a higher level. Luka Doncic, the point guard for the Mavs, had many commentators speculating if he has the skills to carry his team through the finals. Anthony Edwards, the shooting guard for the Timberwolves, has played in the league for only four years and is showing he can perform in the biggest games. The Indiana Pacers have a young team that is full of potential, especially having Tyrese Haliburton as part of their team. For the past few years, the Celtics have been predicted to go to finals and have failed to meet expectations. This year they are hoping to finally make their mark. At this point in the finals, any of the remaining teams have what it takes to win it all.
