As the NBA regular season enters its final stretch, the playoff picture is starting to take shape. With just a handful of games remaining, teams are jockeying for position and fighting for their playoff lives. Here’s a look at the latest news and predictions for the 2023 NBA playoffs.
The Minnesota Timberwolves made a statement on Wednesday night, defeating the Golden State Warriors 115-107 and sending them back into the play-in tournament. It was a must-win game for both teams, as they were tied for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. But it was the Timberwolves who came out on top, thanks to a monster game from Karl-Anthony Towns, who finished with 34 points, 13 rebounds, and 5 assists.
The Warriors, meanwhile, struggled to find their rhythm all night, shooting just 42.4% from the field and 30.8% from three-point range. Stephen Curry did all he could to keep his team in the game, finishing with 29 points and 8 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough. Now, the Warriors will have to win two straight play-in games in order to secure their spot in the playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings remain on the cusp of clinching a playoff spot in the West. Despite losing to the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night, the Kings are still in a strong position, sitting just one game behind the Timberwolves and Warriors in the standings. They’ll need to win their remaining games and hope for a bit of luck, but the Kings are confident they can make a run at the playoffs.
In the Eastern Conference, the playoff picture is a bit clearer. The Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, and Milwaukee Bucks have all clinched playoff spots, while the Miami Heat and Atlanta Hawks are on the verge of securing their spots as well. The race for the final playoff spots is still tight, however, with the Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, and Washington Wizards all in the mix.
Overall, the NBA playoffs are shaping up to be an exciting and unpredictable affair. With just a few games remaining, anything can happen. Stay tuned for more updates as the regular season comes to a close.