The NBA’s Northwest Division is the toughest in the entire league. After beating up on each other all season, who will be the last team standing?
Without a doubt, the Northwest Division will be one of the most exciting in the NBA this season. They have the greatest collection of overall talent and will push one another to new heights. Hopefully, they don’t beat up on each other too badly that they are left without any gas for a playoff run.
In 2016-17, the division supported three teams in the playoffs; the Utah Jazz, Oklahoma City Thunder and Portland Trail Blazers. This year, it’s not inconceivable to think they could maintain three teams or even have a fourth slip into the mix.
The Jazz lost one of the best players in the league in Gordon Hayward, but return nearly everyone else with a few additions. If they can rely on their extremely tough defense to get them through the season, they will be right there at the end.
The Trail Blazers also return nearly everyone, with the exception of a couple of role players. They will go as far as their stars, Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, can carry them.
The Thunder completed one of the biggest offseason acquisitions when they savagely traded for Paul George. By only having to give up two average players, they saved some of their depth as well.
The Denver Nuggets were another team who acquired a big name this summer, this time through free agency. Paul Millsap agreed to join the team and created a fearsome frontcourt duo with Nikola Jokic.
Last, but certainly not least, you can add the Minnesota Timberwolves to the trifecta of Northwest teams that added a big-name player. Jimmy Butler comes over from Chicago and hopes to push his new team back into the playoffs.
Whoever comes out on top will be in good position for a strong playoff run.