The 2024-25 NBA regular season concludes today, and the Western Conference playoff picture remains largely undecided. Three playoff spots are still up for grabs in the West, with the Nuggets, Clippers, Warriors, and Timberwolves vying for the 4th to 6th seeds. In contrast, the Eastern Conference playoff and play-in seeds are already set.
All NBA teams will play today, with the Warriors versus Clippers game being the most crucial. The winner secures a guaranteed playoff berth in the West, while the loser risks falling into the Play-In Tournament.
The playoff seedings in the West are complex, so here`s a simplified breakdown of what`s at stake on this final day.
What`s at stake today?
- Western Conference seeds 4 through 10 are still to be determined.
- The Nuggets, Clippers, and Timberwolves are competing for the 4th and 5th seeds in the West.
- The Warriors have control over their playoff fate but cannot achieve a seed higher than 6th.
- The Grizzlies are confirmed for the 7th vs. 8th play-in game but their exact seed is still to be decided.
- The Kings and Mavericks will participate in the 9th vs. 10th play-in game, with their final seed still in play.
Today`s Playoff Scenario Outcomes
(Tiebreaker rules are detailed elsewhere.)
- Nuggets secure the No. 4 seed with a victory over the Rockets.
- Clippers clinch a top-five seed by winning against the Warriors.
- Warriors lock in the No. 6 seed if they defeat the Clippers.
- Timberwolves guarantee a top-six seed with a win against the Jazz.
- Kings claim the No. 9 seed with a win against the Suns or a Mavericks defeat.
- Mavericks secure the No. 9 seed by winning against the Grizzlies and a Kings loss.
By Dominic Ashworth
Dominic Ashworth, 41, has made his mark in Leicester's sports media scene with his comprehensive coverage of football and horse racing. Known for his ability to spot emerging talents, Dominic spends countless hours at local sporting events, developing stories that matter to both casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts.
Jasper Hawthorne