Surging teams make waves as NBA regular season nears homestretch

With roughly seven weeks remaining in the 2023-24 NBA regular season, the league is beginning to take shape.

The gap between the major contenders and the rest is becoming clearer as teams battle for playoff position and draft lottery odds.

Despite this, several teams are charging into the final stretch with momentum on their side.

Energized by their recent performances, these select few are poised for a strong finish, provided they can maintain their health and motivation. However, in a season fraught with unpredictability, nothing is guaranteed.

As the NBA gears up for the All-Star weekend, here are the five most impressive teams:

1. LA Clippers

The Clippers have defied early-season skepticism, rebounding from a rocky start to emerge as serious contenders. Despite initial doubts following the James Harden trade, the team has found its rhythm, boasting a league-best record since December 1st. Harden’s selfless play, Russell Westbrook’s adaptation to a bench role, and Kawhi Leonard’s consistent performance have all contributed to their resurgence.

2. Cleveland Cavaliers

Despite facing numerous setbacks, including injuries to key players like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, the Cavaliers have emerged as a force in the Eastern Conference. Their remarkable 23-5 record since mid-December, fueled by Donovan Mitchell and stellar team efforts, has propelled them to the top tier of contenders.

3. Boston Celtics

Consistency has been the hallmark of the Celtics’ season, as they’ve maintained their position at the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Led by Jayson Tatum and supported by a well-rounded roster, including Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White, Boston shows no signs of slowing down.

4. New York Knicks

Despite facing injuries to key players like Julius Randle, the Knicks have remained competitive, thanks in large part to the emergence of Jalen Brunson and smart coaching from Tom Thibodeau. With the addition of Bojan Bogdanovic and Alec Burks, the team’s ceiling has been raised even higher.

5. Golden State Warriors

Led by the incomparable Stephen Curry, the Warriors have rebounded from a slow start to reassert themselves as contenders in the Western Conference. With contributions from young talents like Jonathan Kuminga and a reenergized Draymond Green, Golden State is once again a team to watch.

As the regular season enters its final stretch, these teams will look to maintain their momentum and solidify their positions in the playoff race. With so much still at stake, the race to the postseason promises to be as thrilling as ever.