The NBA Playoffs are right around the corner and it is shaping up to be one of the best in years. So many teams have star players that can single-handedly win a series if they catch fire. Unlike most postseasons we have seen in recent years, this one could be chaotic. 

The Sacramento Kings clinched a playoff berth for the first time since 2006 and look poised for a deep run if they are able to avoid first-time playoff jitters. They are led by young stars De’aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis who will both likely be All-NBA selections this year. The inspired, fast paced style of play they have adopted could pose a problem for the defending champion Golden State Warriors.

The Warriors have endured a small championship hangover. Golden State has an abysmal 11-30 record on the road this season. This, coupled with the Kings rabid fan base could bode well for Sacramento’s newly nicknamed “Beam Team.”

With that being said, the Warriors have more experience than the Kings which will make them a tough out. Not only do the Warriors have more experience, they possess a championship pedigree and attitude that will fuel their playoff run.

This series will be full of excitement as these two teams have been in many high- scoring games. This was on full display in the Kings 176-175 win over the Clippers earlier this year.

The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks will make for another fun playoff matchup. Both teams missed the playoffs last season. However, key additions and player development from both sides have led to their returns to the postseason. 

With the addition of Jalen Brunson, the Knicks have taken the next step to being a contender in the Eastern Conference. His playmaking ability allows the rest of New York’s roster to play confidently off the ball and open up the floor for his co-star Julius Randle. 

Randle had a rebound season as last year he had a down year after being an all-star in 2021. He has averaged a 25 point double-double this season in large part due to the addition of Brunson. The Knicks are a deep, scrappy team and will be tough to beat when both Randle and Brunson are hot.

During the offseason, the Cleveland Cavaliers were able to trade for perennial All-Star Donovan Mitchell and it has paid huge dividends. The six-year pro out of Louisville has averaged 28.3 points per game along with four rebounds and four assists. His leadership has been paramount in the Cavs franchise turnaround.

The development of young stars Darius Garland and Evan Mobley has also made the team more successful. Mobley has blossomed into one of the league’s best interior defenders and Garland is a true point guard who is capable of scoring at will. Cleveland has taken monumental strides this season and will not go down easy in these playoffs.

The NBA Playoffs are always fun and exciting for all basketball fans alike and with all the great matchups this year, it should be no different.