The 2017-18 NBA season was a rollercoaster ride, filled with unexpected upsets, breakout stars, and ultimately, a thrilling postseason. This deep dive into the final standings will revisit the key moments and teams that shaped this memorable year. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions surrounding the season's results.
Eastern Conference
The Eastern Conference saw the emergence of several young teams and a continued dominance from one powerhouse. The Toronto Raptors, led by DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry, secured the top seed, showcasing their consistent regular season prowess. The Boston Celtics, despite injuries to key players, fought their way to a second-place finish. The Philadelphia 76ers, a team on the rise, captured the third seed, while the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by LeBron James, took the fourth spot. This was the last season James played for the Cavaliers before moving to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Western Conference
The Western Conference was, as always, a brutal battleground. The Houston Rockets, fueled by the potent offensive duo of James Harden and Chris Paul, claimed the top seed, although their playoff run fell short of expectations. The Golden State Warriors, despite facing their share of challenges, ended up with the second seed, highlighting their persistent ability to contend for championships. The Portland Trail Blazers, led by Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, clinched the third seed, while the Oklahoma City Thunder, with Russell Westbrook and Paul George, secured the fourth spot. The competitiveness of this conference was evident in the incredibly tight standings, with multiple teams vying for playoff positioning until the very end.
Final Standings:
(Note: Specific win-loss records are readily available through numerous sports websites and are omitted here to focus on the season's narrative. This information can be easily found with a quick online search.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions surrounding the NBA 2017-18 standings, addressed to provide a comprehensive overview:
Who won the NBA Championship in 2017-18?
The Golden State Warriors won the NBA Championship in 2017-18, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in four games. This victory marked their second consecutive championship and third in four years.
Which teams made the playoffs in the Eastern Conference in 2017-18?
The Eastern Conference playoff teams were: Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, Washington Wizards, Indiana Pacers, and Miami Heat.
Which teams made the playoffs in the Western Conference in 2017-18?
The Western Conference playoff teams were: Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Portland Trail Blazers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Utah Jazz, San Antonio Spurs, New Orleans Pelicans, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
What were some of the major storylines of the 2017-18 NBA season?
Several key storylines shaped the 2017-18 season. The rise of young teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, the continued dominance of the Golden State Warriors (despite facing some adversity), and LeBron James' last season with the Cleveland Cavaliers were all major narratives. The emergence of several MVP-caliber players added another layer of excitement to the season.
Were there any significant injuries that impacted the standings?
Yes, injuries certainly played a role. Several key players on various teams missed significant time due to injury, impacting their teams' standings and playoff hopes. This highlights the unpredictable nature of the NBA season and the importance of team depth.
The 2017-18 NBA season remains a significant chapter in the league's history, a blend of established powerhouses and emerging contenders. By understanding the context of the final standings and the major storylines, we can appreciate the drama and excitement that defined this particular year. Further research into specific team performances and individual player statistics will provide an even more comprehensive understanding of this memorable season.
