In the past three years, the NBA landscape has seen significant shifts as several top-30 players have transitioned from the Western Conference to the Eastern Conference. Among these big moves are Paul George, Damian Lillard, Jalen Brunson, Donovan Mitchell, and Tyrese Haliburton. Players like Brunson and Mitchell have made profound impacts on their respective teams’ fortunes, altering the competitive balance between the two conferences.
Despite these relocations, the Western Conference continues to boast a significant concentration of elite talent. Nine out of the top 12 NBA players hail from the West, with the Top 100 list favoring the West by featuring 54 players compared to the East's 46.
Western Conference Dominance
Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Domantas Sabonis have returned to the West during this period, reinforcing the conference's strength. Durant, in particular, has been a standout performer, averaging 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists last season while shooting an impressive 41% from beyond the arc. His consistency and influence on the court remain undeniable. As Brad Botkin aptly pointed out, “His defense has made great strides. The fact that he has zero interest in being recognized as the world's best player is, in part, what actually makes him the world's best player.”
Meanwhile, the Western Conference is home to the league's best player, Nikola Jokic. Jokic’s unique blend of skills and his unassuming approach to greatness have set him apart in a league filled with talent. The Denver Nuggets' big man continues to define excellence in modern basketball.
Rising Stars and Proven Veterans
Desmond Bane of the Memphis Grizzlies is another player making headlines. Despite increased usage to 27.3% in his fourth year, Bane maintained his efficiency, showcasing his capability to handle greater responsibility. His performances were crucial, especially during Ja Morant’s nine-game absence, where Bane averaged 24.6 points per game. James Herbert observed that “The Grizzlies' franchise player was willing to defer to Bane at times when they shared the floor,” underscoring Bane's growing importance to the team.
On a similar note, Rudy Gobert continues to assert his defensive prowess, winning the Defensive Player of the Year award for the fourth time, cementing his legacy as one of the best defenders in the league.
The Minnesota Timberwolves also marked a significant milestone. Last season, they reached the Western Conference finals for the first time since 2004, driven by the leadership of Anthony Edwards, who made his first All-NBA appearance. Edwards's ascent is a testament to his relentless drive and undeniable talent.
Challenges and Opportunities
The Western Conference has not been without its challenges. The Clippers, for instance, face the task of integrating James Harden into their offensive scheme following Paul George's departure to Philadelphia. This transition period will be crucial as they adapt to new dynamics and strategies.
In contrast, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Jalen Williams has emerged as a versatile scorer and defensive asset. His statistics without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the court were reminiscent of Kevin Durant's numbers, suggesting a bright future ahead. His versatility and growth have caught the eye of many, with James Herbert noting, “His future looks bright with All-Star appearances seemingly just a matter of time.”
Continued Excellence
Veterans like Karl-Anthony Towns continue to showcase elite-level performance. Towns has been ranked as high as No. 11 on previous top-100 lists and remains a central figure for his team. Sam Quinn described him accurately, stating, “Towns is among the best big man shooters of all time.”
For the LA Clippers, Kawhi Leonard's grit and determination were on full display last season. Playing 68 games and averaging 23 points per game, Leonard maintained a better than 62% true-shooting clip, providing a steady hand and reliable scoring for the Clippers.
As for the Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic continues to dazzle fans and pundits alike. “Even after six years in the league, it's not uncommon to walk away from watching Doncic play and still think, 'How is he doing this?'” remarked Jasmyn Wimbish, capturing the awe-inspiring nature of Doncic's performances. His consistent brilliance ensures that Dallas remains a formidable force in the West.
The Western Conference continues to be a hub of talent and competition, bolstered by the presence of both seasoned stars and emerging talents. The narratives unfolding in each team promise a thrilling season ahead as they vie for supremacy and seek to leave their mark on NBA history.