Every year, the Western Conference appears to be wide open, with teams exceeding or falling short of expectations. Over the last four seasons, the conference champions have changed each year, including the Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Lakers. These same teams are considered contenders for the upcoming 2023-24 season.
Denver, fresh from celebrating their first NBA championship in 47 years, remains the favorites for the upcoming season. However, contending for the title is a challenge in a conference filled with star-studded teams seeking redemption and young squads hungry for success.
The Sacramento Kings ended a 17-year playoff drought with the help of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis but must prove if they can sustain and improve upon their success.
The offseason brought changes, including Chris Paul joining the Warriors, making the Western Conference more competitive and unpredictable than in recent years.
Here's a breakdown of different tiers in the Western Conference:
Tier 4: Just Keep Tanking San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers are not expected to make the postseason but have promising young players and prospects.
Tier 3: The Wild Card Teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, OKC Thunder, Utah Jazz, and Houston Rockets have undeniable talent but much to prove as they work to establish themselves as playoff contenders.
Tier 2: Knocking on the Door The Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and New Orleans Pelicans are teams with potential and key players looking to make their mark in the playoffs.
Tier 1: The Highly Favored The Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Clippers are considered title contenders with star-studded rosters and high expectations for the upcoming season.